The Mandate

The main purpose of the Irondale Ensemble Project (Canada) is to create dynamic, original theatre and to explore the integration of theatre into educational programs and community development initiatives. We maintain a corps of theatre artists, who work together in an ongoing and open ended process. The work of the Ensemble includes the research into theatrical forms, training in various performing arts and the design of arts in education programs.

The ensemble creates plays that challenge existing theatrical norms, thereby broadening Nova Scotia’s definition of theatre and also making it more accessible to more Nova Scotians, both as participants and as audience members.

The ensemble members share a commitment to theatre as a catalyst for social and educational reform and for the promotion of social justice.

This year Irondale is reevaluating the way we do this.

Our History

The traditions and philosophies of Irondale here in Halifax originated with the Irondale Ensemble Project of New York. Stephen Cross worked with that ensemble for many years as an actor. He recognized the value of the work, and in June of 1990 returned to Halifax and founded the Canadian ensemble.

The two companies share common roots, and the connection to these shared philosophies is a bond that is nurtured, while the companies explore and develop independently.

The Artists

In the past, the company consisted of a director, a choreographer, a company manager/costume designer and a core of actors who worked full time to create theatre during each year's season

This group worked together in daily rehearsals in the creation of new main stage performances as well as shows and workshops for community groups and agencies. They also worked in classrooms and community to facilitate through theatre games, and to train others in theatre arts.

This season we will not be keeping a permanent core of actors.  Instead, performers will be brought on board on an "as needed" basis.

Our Outreach

Through our educational work, the company has made and nurtured links with many communities.  Some within metro and others in rural areas of the province.

This connects the company to a diverse population of Nova Scotians, crossing boundaries of economics, culture , age and experience.

These relationships influence and enrich the development process through which Irondale creates new works.

Our Workshops

The educational work of the company focuses on teaching others how to use theatre game techniques as learning strategies. Company members work with youth and adults in schools, correctional facilities, mental health organizations, group homes as well as in more traditional theatre settings.

These workshops build self-esteem, creativity and communication skills through hands on workshop experiences. The company can either work directly with a client group within an organization, or can train care givers and educators to use these game strategies themselves.

To learn more about the kinds of workshops we offer, click here.

Our Shows

Theatre, dance, music and physical comedy are carefully integrated and layered to produce multi-disciplinary theatrical events which are accessible to a wide range of audiences.

Irondale's original works are unscripted and although pieces are eventually "set", they are infused with the spontaneity of the improvisational process from which they were developed.

To date, Irondale has created a repertoire of nineteen full length theatre and dance works for performance, several show and workshop combinations for all levels of schools, and numerous agency pieces for specific client groups.

To see images and descriptions of our shows to date click here.

Agency pieces have included creation of theatre works for The Council of Canadians, The Canadian Labour Congress, Nova Scotia Provincial Court Judges, The College of Family Physicians, and the Canadian Public Health Association.

To see a list of currently available workshops click here.