Our Board
For over a decade, Suitcase Theatre has been directed by a group of individuals with a wide array of skills, experiences, and a commitment to equitable arts access and education.
In 2018, our organization received a Compass Grant from the Ontario Arts Council to support a new strategic plan to guide our organization into the future.
Stu Gilchrist, Founder
“As the creator of Mr. Dressup, Canada’s longest-running children’s television program and much loved by generations from coast to coast, I set out to create a theatre company with the same ethics and ease that Mr. Dressup shared for over 30 years. In much the same way, theatre for young audiences is a wonderful land of magic and imagination: a place where suspense and laughter live side-by-side. I am energized by the passion our team at Suitcase Theatre possesses and am so very fortunate to share it with them.”
Dr. Bernard Lawless, Chair
“Suitcase Theatre strives to be responsive and relevant to real issues being faced by today’s children and youth. With the increasing awareness of mental health issues and the positive benefits on overall mental health that participation in creative arts can have, Suitcase Theatre delivers content specifically related to mental health in children and youth.”
Tiffany Jay, Secretary
“Suitcase Theatre continues to innovate and creatively produce interactive musicals, workshops, and arts experiences that carry important messages for children. The show’s creative, toe-tapping music and sensitive scripts help children to speak openly about their thoughts and feelings.”
Julian DeZotti
“Empathy. Compassion. Understanding. They are the qualities we must possess and must teach our children. In our actions, in our words, and in our culture. Live theatre gives us an opportunity to reflect, to show us what’s possible, and how we can do better.”
Brian Jamieson
“I choose to be on the Suitcase Theatre board because I believe in the power of the arts to shape character and build community. I believe in Suitcase Theatre’s ability to bring smiles, skills, and collegiality to children and, in so doing, strengthen their character and our collective sense of community.”
Young Associates oversees Suitcase Theatre’s financial management, quarterly bookkeeping and government reporting.