Monthly Speaker Review #12

November 17, 2023 Meeting Summary

Our meeting on November 17^th featured Tim Carroll, Artistic Director of The Shaw Festival, as our speaker.

The title of his talk was ‘The Shaw Festival in the 21st Century’ and was about how things have changed in theatre and at the Shaw, and how they plan to be ready for the challenges that they are facing and the ones that they don’t know about yet.

Tim Carroll first introduced himself to the Audience by reviewing his almost nomadic life in search of experience, learning and teaching of the behind the scenes preparation and live stage presentation of theatre. He described how any and all forms on stage live presentations are developed.

Tim discussed how all forms of live stage production succeed  because of the strength of pre-presentation work by both actors and off-stage staff and workers. He revealed that it was his desire to experience all forms of live presentation (drama, musicals, and opera), because he felt that gaining such comprehensive knowledge was essential in developing his ability to successfully direct any form of live presentation.

The coordination of all performers, on and off stage for any live presentation , is what he believes to be the formula for success. Tim commented on the need for learning and participation by all involved in any presentation. To him this is a premise inherent in any successful live stage production. There are challenges in preparing and managing actors to develop  specific skills that will characterize and identify the features of the performance wanted by the director.

Tim Carrol presentation reflected  his fervour, his experience, and his well developed ability; this has led  to the success of his work throughout his career. He spoke not only with pride and knowledge but also with humour.

Even though he was under time pressure, Tim was ready to answer all questions. His answers were direct and clear.

He was quite open in encouraging the audience to learn, experience and enjoy theatre, and, of course, to buy a subscription to next year’s Shaw Festival program.