SATP’s Invaluable Support for Theatre Professionals

Creative Saskatchewan funds seven industry associations, helping them achieve their mandates to support Saskatchewan’s creative small businesses and creative producers, and helping build extraordinary businesses. As their primary funding agency, we have provided operational and program funding for the Saskatchewan Association of Theatre Professionals (SATP) since 2016.

Founded in 2014, SATP came together to represent the needs of Saskatchewan’s professional theatre artists and organizations. Their mission is to empower Saskatchewan’s theatre makers and professionals with relevant training, programming, and promotional opportunities, while being responsive to current cultural needs. SATP cultivates arts creation and development at all levels of the province through public and industry advocacy. They are committed to building strong community, professional relationships, and networks within the Saskatchewan theatre sector.

“Telling stories is at the heart of any strong community. The Saskatchewan theatre industry fosters strong community by creating vibrant shows and presenting stories that audiences can connect to, learn from, and be inspired by,” said Executive Director, Judith Schulz. “SATP stands behind these artists and practitioners as they continue to create challenging new work with programming, skill development, and advocacy. We’re grateful for the support Creative Saskatchewan continues to provide us to be able to do this important work.”

They offer various programs and resources such as a mentorship program, theatre directory, contract templates, respect and equity resources, and training and development initiatives. Membership is open on a Pay-What-You-Can basis to practicing roles in the theatre industry, including but not limited to, actors, directors, designers, playwrights, stage managers, arts administrators, theatre educators, technicians, producers, theatre companies, etc.

Becoming a member of the SATP offers numerous benefits for those passionate about the health, vibrancy, and success of theatre and performing arts in Saskatchewan. Members can gain access to a robust digital community; SATP has a virtual ‘Green Room’ where folks can connect with peers, mentors, and the larger performing arts community. Membership provides early access to new programs, updates, and opportunities in the performing arts industry. Additionally, members have a voice in how SATP operates and in larger provincial and national organizations that impact their career. By joining, members not only receive support from other artists but also contribute to a thriving vocational performing arts community.

Creative Saskatchewan proudly funds a few of SATP’s ongoing programs and events, including TheatreCon, a conference that takes place roughly every 18 months, designed to bring Saskatchewan theatre-makers and theatre-supporters together to grow, learn, and strengthen each other as a community. TheatreCon provides opportunities for participants to connect and network, enjoy performances, gather resources, discuss the future of theatre, and attend workshops aimed at helping them grow in their craft and career.

When it comes to funding live performing artists and companies’ commercial activities, that’s where Creative Saskatchewan comes in!

Our role is to help clients navigate the grant application process from start to finish, review applications for eligibility, ensure applications are vetted by industry professionals, and invest in projects with economic potential. Creative Saskatchewan offers a few grants related to the Live Performing Arts sector:

The Live Performing Arts Production & Performance Grant assists eligible Saskatchewan individuals and companies in the production of a series of performances intended for paying audiences locally and abroad.

Individuals and companies are also eligible to apply for our Business Improvement grant, Marketing grant and Showcase or Sell Travel grant.

For over 10 years, SATP has built an incredible community around the live performing arts. We are thrilled to support them as they strive toward their vision of continuing the evolution of an adaptive, sustainable, and connected theatre industry contributing to healthy, inclusive communities and the Saskatchewan arts culture.