For almost 45 years, StoryBook Theatre has celebrated the power of theatre by providing vital, accessible, and diverse family programming. They are Canada’s largest volunteer-driven theatre for young audiences and families. Every season, they bring stories to life on stage that encourage children and their families to dream about who they are and who they might become. Through the art of performance, audiences of all ages also get to explore different and diverse perspectives. We spoke with JP Thibodeau, Artistic Director of StoryBook Theatre, to learn more.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
At its core, StoryBook Theatre is about creating a space where people can discover what they’re capable of—onstage and off. We produce musical theatre and run a busy theatre school, but what really drives us is giving people (especially young people) a place to belong, to try something new, and to surprise themselves. Whether you’re in the audience or in the cast, the goal is the same: to walk away feeling a little more connected and a little more inspired.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Access—plain and simple. The arts can feel out of reach for a lot of families, whether that’s financially or just not knowing where to start. We work to remove those barriers so theatre isn’t something you wish you could do or see—it’s something you actually can.
When did you start/join it?
I first got involved in 2012 as a director and actor, and by 2013, I stepped into the role of Artistic Producer.
What made you want to get involved?
It was the people. There’s something incredibly powerful about watching someone step onstage—sometimes for the first time—and realize they can actually do it. StoryBook is full of those moments, and I wanted to be part of building more of them.
What was the situation like when you started?
There was a lot of heart and a lot of hustle. A passionate group of volunteers, big ideas, and not always the systems or resources to match. It felt like an organization that knew exactly what it could be—we just had to build the path to get there.
How has it changed since?
It’s grown—quite a bit. More programs, bigger productions, stronger infrastructure behind the scenes. But what I’m most proud of is that the feeling hasn’t changed. It’s still a place driven by people who care deeply about what they’re creating and who they’re creating it for.
What more needs to be done?
The reality is that arts organizations, especially community-based ones, are constantly piecing things together to make it all work. Long-term, sustainable support—particularly for spaces like ours—would change everything. Beyond that, there’s always more to do in making sure our doors are open as wide as possible to everyone.
How can our readers help?
Come see a show. Bring a friend. Sign your kid up for a class. Tell someone about us. Those simple actions make a bigger impact than people realize. And if you’re in a position to donate, sponsor, or volunteer, those contributions go a long way in keeping the doors open.
Do you have any events coming up?
We’re right in the middle of a busy season. Anne of Green Gables has been such a hit that we added extra performances, and coming up next is Shrek the Musical, running May 9 through June 15. It’s big, bold, a little ridiculous—in the best way—and exactly the kind of show families can come and just have a great time with.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Tickets | Instagram | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Woezo Africa. Their founder is an absolute force in the community. The work they’re doing is impactful, thoughtful, and rooted in real connection—and it deserves to be celebrated and supported.
