The Shaw Festival has announced the launch of its most ambitious campaign to date, aimed at transforming the organization into a dynamic, year-round hub for creativity, training, and community engagement. Titled All. Together. Now., the campaign sets a fundraising goal of $150 million over the next five years and outlines a bold vision to expand The Shaw’s physical spaces and artistic programming.
According to festival leadership, the campaign is a direct response to growing concerns about the decline in face-to-face communication and the increasing isolation brought about by digital distraction. The initiative positions The Shaw as a place where individuals can reconnect—both with others and with their own creativity.
Key Areas of Focus
The All. Together. Now. campaign will focus on four main areas:
- Experiences – Enhancing programming to include a broader mix of indoor and outdoor events, designed to make The Shaw feel more like a true festival.
- Training – Expanding opportunities for emerging artists through new education and mentorship initiatives.
- Artists – Investing in creative talent, both onstage and behind the scenes.
- Community – Deepening The Shaw’s role as a gathering place for discussion, learning, and shared cultural experiences.
Two-Campus Expansion
To support these goals, the campaign will fund upgrades and new developments across two expanded campuses:
- Festival Campus: Will include the existing Festival Theatre and a newly created Shaw Artists’ Village, intended to serve as a residential and creative space for artists and learners.
- Downtown Campus: Will see a complete renovation of the Royal George Theatre and the adjacent Court House building. Plans include making the Royal George a fully accessible and carbon-neutral venue.
The redesigned spaces will also feature new areas for post-show discussions, artist-audience engagement, and community events.
Fundraising Strategy
The Shaw Festival plans to raise the $150 million target through a combination of individual donations, foundation grants, and corporate partnerships. Colleen Johnston, Chair of the Major Projects Fundraising Team, emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative.
“This is a very emotional and inspiring moment for all of us involved with the campaign,” Johnston said. “Your support will change theatre in Canada and globally for generations to come.”
A New Vision for Live Theatre
At a time when digital entertainment often takes precedence, the Shaw Festival is doubling down on the belief that live theatre still matters—and that it serves a vital role in fostering empathy, curiosity, and understanding.
The campaign aims to make visiting The Shaw more than just a theatre outing. Organizers envision a complete cultural experience, where visitors can engage with new ideas, meet people from all walks of life, and participate in creative dialogue.
The public is invited to learn more and contribute to the campaign by visiting the Shaw Festival’s website.
For more information or to make a donation, visit: https://www.shawfest.com/support-us/all-together-now/
