Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia
Paper Wheat
Seminal work emerging from the collective creation process, premiered at the 25th Street Theatre, in 1977, and subsequently played at over thirty venues to over 60,000 spectators.
The original production was prepared by director Andras Tahn and his cast of six, including Linda Griffiths and Lubomir Mykytuik. It was based on interviews with farmers and the people who worked in the Saskatchewan Wheat Board about their heroic struggle with the land, and the founding of the wheat pool as a cooperative strategy for economic and social survival.
The work was successful for several reasons: it was something new and energetic; it had a decent musical through-line; and it spoke directly to many members of its intended audience. To more urban audiences it was an interesting kind of exotica and a rousing good time as well.
The work changed shape several times, particularly under the direction of Guy Sprung, who introduced new cast members. The process and play were eventually filmed and televised.
Commentary by Gaetan Charlebois
Last updated 2021-06-15
Since October 2002, Athabasca University has hosted the web site, with an editorial board of theatre scholars from across Canada.
To submit an entry, please consult the guidelines for submissions.
Email your submission to: Anne Nothof, Professor Emerita, Athabasca University.
The Encyclopedia collects and disseminates information on plays, playwrights and theatre practitioners. It does not respond to requests for information, auditions, bookings, or tickets.
The Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia web site was originally conceived and developed in 1996 by Gaetan Charlebois—theatre critic, playwright, and actor.
