Miss Shakespeare - media release

Barrier-breaking theatre production shines a spotlight on challenges faced by women in the performing arts

RAINBOW STAGE JOINS WINNIPEG STUDIO THEATRE TO PRESENT THE CANADIAN AWARD-WINNING MUSICAL MISS SHAKESPEARE BY TRACEY POWER & STEVE CHARLES, SEPTEMBER 26TH-OCTOBER 5TH 2024, AT THE ASPER CENTRE FOR THEATRE & FILM. TICKETS ON SALE THROUGH RAINBOW STAGE BOX OFFICE AS OF JULY 15TH, 2024

Miss Shakespeare is the first Winnipeg Studio Theatre production to be 100% women led in ALL departments, from administration to the creative team, NEW designer development program, production staff, and performers. This year is a chance to showcase the amazing talent of our Winnipeg Women.

Set in the 1600's, Miss Shakespeare tells the story of six bold women who defy the oppressive laws banning them from the stage. The show is a dynamic, contemporary piece full of diverse women sharing stories, bawdy jokes, painful experiences, and a passion and talent for theatre. With European style cabaret music and dances choreographed by former Alvin Ailey Dancer Rachael McLaren, the show is a celebration of the power women have, especially when they come together. The women in Miss Shakespeare only want to put on a play, which for them is illegal.

This year’s barrier-breaking production also holds a mirror up to today’s theatre industry, and the challenges that persist for women striving to fulfil their creative and professional potential.

Artistic Director Erin McGrath has been working to ensure that WST is creating a bridge to new artists in our community after taking leadership of the company in 2021. WST has hosted networking events, workshops, implemented audition resource packages, flexible rehearsal schedules and mentorship programs. She collaborated with Shakespeare in the Ruins and brought in Stratford performer and playwright Jessica B. Hill to explore the crossover between skills and training for Opera and Musical theatre performers and how it compliments Shakespearian technique. Each initiative has been designed to create more opportunities for local artists to pursue a professional career. She was awarded the DEIB Leadership Award in 2023 from the Work Wellness Institute for initiatives put in place at WST, demonstrating a commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace.

“I really believe in this show and the importance of this kind of programming,” says McGrath. “I hope our city will come out to support and invest in the excellence and potential of our women.” She notes that, despite some advances, women continue to be under-represented in artistic leadership roles in Winnipeg and in the industry at large. “Investing in women is a human rights imperative and a cornerstone for building inclusive communities.”