Young People’s Theatre appoints AD
Theatre artist Herbie Barnes as been appointed the next artistic director of the Young People’s Theatre, Canada’s largest and oldest youth theatre company.
Barnes, an Anishinaabe theatre artist from Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation on Manitoulin Island, was raised in Toronto and boasts an extensive 30-year career as a playwright, arts educator and director, touring theatres across North America. He replaces longtime director Allen MacInnis after his 19-year-tenure with YPT, based in Toronto.
“I have always found my place in children’s theatre,” Barnes said of his longtime relationship with youth theatre, working extensively with YPT and Manitoba Theatre for Young People (MTYP).
“Allen MacInnis’s legacy as YPT’s artistic director has made it possible to give space to someone such as me. Not only furthering inclusion, but true representation — to have a strong voice in the circle,” Barnes added.
“The search committee was very excited by Herbie’s intercultural, intergenerational programming ideas, both in show selection and educational activities,” said YPT executive director Nancy Webster.
Barnes credits the theatre company for introducing him to his love for the stage: “My first taste of what would be a lifelong passion for theatre started in the old streetcar barn on Front Street,” Barnes said of YPT’s 123-year-old heritage theatre.
He later went on to break barriers as a young Indigenous artist in Canadian theatre, making his first appearance in the company’s 1993 production of “The
Secret of Shhh.” As well as his theatre directing credits, Barnes’ has also had roles in film and TV series, including “Murdoch Mysteries.”
Barnes begins his new role in fall 2021.