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In this issue:
CITT/ICTS News:
2026 Board Retreat
CITT/ICTS & PACT: Upcoming events and collaborations
CITT/ICTS Awards
CITT/ICTS Education Commission
Advertising Opportunities - Website & Newsletter
EXPO-SCÈNE 2026
Rendez-vous 2026
Media Partnership with Skene
Welcome New Members!
Industry News
Resources
CareerHub
Members Area
Thanks to our Contributing Members
New Advertising Space
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CITT/ICTS 2026 Annual Board Retreat
Held January 29 to February 1, 2026
in Mississauga, Ontario
The retreat brought together the National Board for several days of focused planning and strategy, with the Regional representatives joining virtually on January 30 to contribute to key discussions.
The retreat centered on critical organizational priorities, including financial stability, where board members reviewed current financial structures and explored approaches to ensure long-term fiscal resilience in a changing economic and industry landscape. Discussions also shaped the direction of the organization for the upcoming year, focusing on strategic initiatives that support membership value, program growth, and operational effectiveness.
In addition to big-picture planning, the group engaged in detailed conversations about specific project implementation, identifying key actions, timelines, and resource needs to advance CITT/ICTS’s goals. This included aligning regional input with national priorities and strengthening collaboration across all sections of the organization.
As we move forward, the Board remains committed to serving our members and community by offering high-quality programs and professional development opportunities, and encouraging peer-to-peer conversation and knowledge sharing, as well as continuing to strengthen collaborative relationships with key partners across our industry.
Overall, the retreat provided a structured space for reflection, planning, and collective decision-making to guide CITT/ICTS through the upcoming year and beyond.
Warmest Regards,
The CITT/ICTS Board of Directors
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CITT/ICTS will be there!
PACT Industry Welcome
Friday, March 20, 2026 | 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
FREE | Online via Zoom
With a focus on inter-industry connection, the Industry Welcome brings together graduating post-secondary students with industry professionals such as Association and Union Reps and industry leaders in an effort to bridge the gap, demystify these organizations, and review the state of the industry.
Part One: Professional Affiliations Overview (Introductions and Q&A)
1:00pm - 2:00pm ET
- Associate Designers of Canada (ADC)
- Canadian Actors' Equity Association (CAEA)
- Canadian Institute for Theatre Technology / Institut canadien des technologies scénographiques (CITT/ICTS)
- International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
- Playwrights Guild of Canada (PGC)
- Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT)
Part Two: Industry Overview and Connection
2:00pm - 3:00pm ET
This hour will be shared between theatre leaders and post-secondary students. For the final 30 minutes of the day, separate rooms will be organized by general areas of practice:
- Directors, Stage Managers, Choreographers, Playwrights
- Performers
- Technicians
- Designers
- Arts administrators
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World Theatre Day Event
Presented by PACT & CITT/ICTS
Canadian Theatre Training Summit
March 27, 2026 | 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm ET
FREE | Online via Zoom | Open to all
This event will be held in English.
This World Theatre Day, PACT and CITT/ICTS invite you to a national conversation on the state of theatre training in Canada.
Over the past year we have witnessed the stability of Canadian theatre training programs continue to erode under increasing pressures related to funding constraints, program amalgamation, and declining or fluctuating enrollment. The long-term implications on our industry and society are apparent. While the contexts for universities, colleges, and conservatories are unique, we are hearing that many of the challenges are shared across institutions.
PACT and CITT/ICTS are convening a national conversation of leaders in this space that is productive and action-focused, to help identify regional and national paths forward.
This conversation is particularly geared towards Deans, Associate-Deans, Heads of Departments, Program Heads, and Co-Chairs. Theatre employers are invited to join to understand and contribute their experiences in support.
We invite your help in sharing this invitation with peers in this space!
Questions may be addressed to PACT's Executive Director, Brad Lepp.
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🏆 Members: Nominate your peers!
Let's give recognition to outstanding individuals in our sector
Many of you have shared with us how meaningful these awards are to our community, and how important it is to recognize individuals and teams whose contributions often happen behind the scenes.
Whether it's a colleague, mentor, or team, we are counting on you to nominate those whose work has made a lasting impact!
The 2026 CITT/ICTS Awards are:
• Achievement in Education Award
• Technical Innovation and Achievement Award
• Lifetime Achievement Award
• Emerging Technical Talent Award
“It feels absolutely wonderful to be recognized by your peers, especially so early on in a career. Thank you again to CITT/ICTS for encouraging these awards.”
– Brendan Briceland, 2025 Emerging Technical Talent Award recipient
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Next Meeting:
📆 Monday, March 16, 2026 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM ET - On Zoom
Are welcome: Educational institutions representatives.
Open to: Members and non-members.
The Commission seeks to define and uphold national standards while promoting a shared vision for training and professional development.
Educational institution representatives who wish to contribute to this commission are welcome. Please note that this meeting will not be recorded. Registration is required.
The Educational Commission is led by:
Andrea Lundy, Director of the Production Design and Technical Arts Program at the National Theatre School of Canada and Secretary of the CITT/ICTS Board of Directors.
Co-Chairs:
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Gavin Fearon, Technical Director, Brock University Department of Dramatic Arts, St Catharines, ON
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Torin Buzek, Instructor, Technical Theatre (Scenic Construction) - Fountain School of Performing Arts, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
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Travis Hatt, Assistant Professor, Program Coordinator, Theatre Production - MacEwan University, Edmonton, AB
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New advertising opportunities!
CITT/ICTS Website & Newsletter
We are pleased to announce that we are now offering advertising space to members and partner associations on our website's homepage, and in our monthly newsletter (see Advertising Space at the end of this newsletter).
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Website homepage banner: Average number of monthly visits: 1,300. Average home page retention time: 3 minutes. That's plenty of exposure for your ad!
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Newsletter banner: Total of subscribers: 1,372 (mix of members and non-members). Average open rate: 60% = +22% vs industry average!
Cost for both types of advertising space: $150.00 plus taxes.
→ Visit this page to learn more and to view specifications.
✔️ Contact us to book!
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EXPO-SCÈNE 2026
Setting the stage for another landmark edition!
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Preparations for EXPO-SCÈNE 2026 are well underway and the team is working hard to provide a valuable and inspiring experience for all participants.
Attendees can expect many first-time exhibitors, excellent learning opportunities, and new show collaborations that will lead to additional activities and experiences alongside the main trade show.
We hope to see you there ✨
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Booth Reservation
The show floor is almost sold-out! Contact us quickly to book one of our last spots.
EXPO-SCÈNE is more than just a trade show, it’s an unmatched opportunity to gain exposure, generate leads, and grow your presence in the Canadian entertainment technology sector.
→ Exhibitor Information
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Visitor Registration
Register now for your FREE visitor badge!
A badge gives visitors access to both days of the show, the TEC Talk Studios and the Demo Rooms.
Separate registration fees apply to pre-show training and other activities.
→ Visitor Registration
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Confirmed Exhibitors
New Exhibitors are still being added!
→ View Exhibitor List
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Demo Rooms & TEC Talks
The next edition will feature 5 Demo Rooms and 3 TEC Talks Studios. Details to come - Stay tuned!
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Sponsorship & Advertising
Give your company maximum visibility before, during, and after the show
Attract the attention of over 1,800 attendees from across Canada and beyond. Explore our opportunities to find the one that best meets your needs.
→ View Opportunities
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Travel & Accommodation
⏱️ Book early!
HOTELS: Enjoy preferred rates at hotels near the Palais des congrès de Montréal.
AIR TRAVEL: Enjoy discounts on plane tickets with Air Canada, WestJet and Porter.
→ Hotels & Discount codes
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Pre-show Training
Deepen your knowledge and sharpen your skills on top industry gear!
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grandMA3 Presented by ACT Entertainment
• grandMA3 Beginner 2-Day: April 13 + 14 | $USD 500 - FULL! Waitlist available
• grandMA3 as a Second Language 1-Day: April 15 | $USD 250 - FULL! Waitlist available
• Getting to know grandMA3 90-min: April 16 | FREE, register now!
CITT/ICTS members: 20% discount
⇢ Details & Waitlist
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ETC Eos Family Consoles presented by ETC
• Level 1 - Beginner 1-Day: April 14 - Only 1 spot left!
• Level 2 - Enhanced 1-Day: April 15 - FULL! Waitlist available
$USD 175 per day
⇢ Details & Registration
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Dataton WATCHOUT 7 Presented by Show Sage LLC
2-Day: April 14 + 15
$225.00 +tx
CITT/ICTS members: 20% discount
⇢ Details & Registration
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Fog & Hazer Training Presented by Hazebase
3-hour: April 14
$100.00 +tx
CITT/ICTS members: 15% discount
⇢ Details & Registration
| | Don't miss any updates! Follow EXPO-SCÈNE on: | | |
August 12 - 14, 2026
Pre-conference Workshops and Training: August 10 and 11
Sessions, Tours, Social Activities, AGM: August 12 to 14
Trade Show: August 13
This year's conference will once again focus on hands-on training and educational sessions on hot industry topics. We look forward to welcoming you all to Ottawa! See below for information about our first confirmed pre-conference workshop and stay tuned for more announcements and partnerships!
The conference will be hosted at uOttawa’s Faculty of Arts, Department of Theatre, LabO building, located at 10 Daly Street, Ottawa. The venue includes the LabO performance space and rehearsal studios, and is directly connected to Arts Court, where additional spaces may be used for conference activities.
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First Pre-conference Workshop Confirmed!
Theatrical Rigging and Counterweight Fly Systems
2-Day hands-on course with a mix of lectures and practical work.
April 11 & 12, 2026
Price: 600$ per person, lunch provided. Spots are limited.
This course is an intro to stage rigging, taking place in both a classroom and theatre setting, focusing on counterweight systems. Topics will include basic rigging theory, rigging hardware, knot tying, wire rope terminations, loading weight, and hanging scenery. Also covered: spot lines, arbor assist devices, trick releases, and hanging chain motors for touring shows, rigging inspection requirements, procedures, and reports.
This course is made possible through a joint collaboration and parternships with JOEL Theatrical Rigging, the National Arts Centre, and Wes Jenkins with Down Stage Right Industries.
Instructors: Joe Henning, Wes Jenkins.
More details & registration to come!
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Travel & Accommodation
Plan your trip and book your accommodation as soon as possible!
Official conference hotels:
DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown Ottawa
Rate: $179/night
Special rate deadline: July 09, 2026
Les Suites Hôtel Ottawa
Modern One Bedroom Suites: $239/night
Modern Executive One Bedroom Suites: $269/night
Modern Two Bedroom Suites: $339/night
Special rate deadline: June 30, 2026
Air Travel Discounts
Enjoy 5% to 10% discounts on tickets with Air Canada, WestJet and Porter with our conference promo codes.
Rail Transport Discounts
Enjoy 10% discount on tickets with VIA Rail with our conference promo code.
→ Go to Travel & Accommodation
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Ongoing! Call for Sessions
Contribute to knowledge sharing and skills development at Rendez-vous!
We are calling on experts, innovators, and thought leaders from across the live entertainment industry to submit proposals for engaging and impactful sessions, roundtables and panel discussions that will inspire, educate, and challenge attendees.
Rendez-vous is an excellent opportunity for the industry to engage in conversations that drive innovation and creativity and to participate in high-quality training that helps workers advance in their careers.
We welcome proposals from members and non-members.
| | Don't miss any updates! Follow Rendez-vous on: | | |
Setting the Canadian Stage:
How CITT/ICTS Supports Theatre & Live Event Technicians
By Josafath Reynoso
Following the OFFSTAGE podcast featuring Jacquie Lazar, we are delighted to share the second phase of our media partnership with Skene.
In this in-depth article, you'll learn how CITT/ICTS supports Canada's theatre and live event technicians and educators by providing training, fostering a sense of community, organizing regional events, and producing its two flagship events: the Rendez-vous Annual Conference and Trade Show and EXPO-SCÈNE.
" In Canada, there’s one organization that has championed these invisible artists for more than three decades: the Canadian Institute for Theatre Technology / Institut canadien des technologies scénographiques (CITT ICTS). From their national conference Rendez-vous to their flagship trade show EXPO-SCÈNE, to becoming the Canadian Centre of OISTAT, CITT/ICTS has built not just a network, but a community; one that ensures Canadian live event professionals have the tools, training, and recognition they deserve. "
➡️ READ THE ARTICLE
Warmest thanks to Skene's editor, Josafath Reynoso, for his outstanding work.
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About Skene
Skene's mission is to inspire, inform, and connect the global performing arts community; to provide a platform for diverse voices and foster creativity and collaboration across disciplines; and to empower artists to explore new ideas and practices. In their first year of operation, they achieved exceptional success and recognition within the industry by forming meaningful partnerships and friendships with professionals and organizations from around the world. Tip of the hat!
We encourage you to learn more through the article: Skene Year One: From Ghostlight to Global Stage.
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CONTRIBUTING
Epson Canada, Markham, ON
SUSTAINING
T-Node Équipement scénique, St-Jérôme, QC
INDIVIDUAL
Wendy Catto, Hemmingford, QC
Zoe Dempster, Pouch Cove, NL
Kyla Gardiner, Burnaby, BC
STUDENT
Bernice Qiu, Edmonton, AB
RETIRED
Lenny Fisher, Chilliwack, BC
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ETC Announces CEO Retirement
& Appointment Of James Foster As President
After decades of dedicated service to ETC, CEO Dick Titus announced his retirement this week.
“Throughout his 35-year tenure, and in his seven years as CEO, Dick Titus has provided ETC with steadfast leadership and guidance. His legacy will continue in ETC’s ongoing dedication to its employees and customers,” said Susan Foster, Chairman of the Board.
As the company ushers in the next era of leadership, ETC is pleased to announce that James Foster has assumed the role of President.
As the incoming President, Foster brings with him over a decade of experience. He has worked closely with Titus and with departments across ETC, including roles in Research & Development, Human Resources, Acquisition Management, and Professional Services. Foster has held the position of Vice President of Finance since 2024 and has served on ETC’s Board of Directors since 2022.
“I am deeply honored and excited to begin this next chapter alongside the amazing people of ETC,” said Foster. “This company has been built by a passion for people, service, and exciting products, and I intend to carry that forward.”
→ ETC News
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Financial Wellness Workshop
Audit‑Proofing Your Taxes with Suny Widerman
Thursday, March 5, 2026 | 1–3 pm ET / 10 am–12 pm PT
Online via Zoom | Free
Let’s face it, no one wants to be audited. The good news is that with the right preparation, an audit does not have to be stressful.
Join tax specialist Sunny Widerman for a practical and empowering financial wellness workshop designed to help you feel more confident during the tax season. Whether you are an artist, freelancer, independent creator, or anyone working in the entertainment industry, this session will help you simplify your tax process and avoid common pitfalls.
Participants will learn practical ways to stay organized, simplify tax preparation and gain an understanding of CRA expectations. Even if you are never audited, these tools will make tax season easier every year.
ASL interpretation and captions are provided. A recording will be shared with all registrants.
→ Info & Registration
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USITT 2026 Annual Conference
Hurry! Regular rate ends March 3.
✨ Reminder! CITT/ICTS Members benefit from the USITT Member Price.
Again this year USITT is happy to offer you access to the special USITT Member price on all tiers of the pricing structure: Early / General / Late. Register before March 4 for the best rate!
Instructions and promo code → Log in to My Membership Benefits
Regular Rate (Dec. 9 - March 3)
MEMBER: FULL-CONFERENCE $610
NON-MEMBER: FULL-CONFERENCE $859
Late Rate (Mar. 4 & later)
MEMBER: FULL-CONFERENCE $701.50
NON-MEMBER: $988
→ Visit the USITT2026 Conference Website
→ View USITT26 Stage Expo Information
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Pyrotechnics Safety and Legal Awareness Virtual Course
with Gun-Smoke Canada
Next course:
Saturday March 21, 2026 | 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (ET) | On Zoom
Special Effect Pyrotechnics (Type F.3) are high-hazard pyrotechnics articles designed for use by professionals. These articles include items such as Gerbs, Mines, and Comets. These articles would be used in theatre productions, concerts and on film sets.
This course is the mandatory first step to a certification as Pyrotechnician - Fireworks/Operator by the Explosives Regulatory Division (ERD). This is a Federal certification, required and recognized from Coast to Coast.
Regular price: $225.00 + HST = $254.25
CITT/ICTS Members get a $25 discount!
Price for CITT/ICTS members: $200 + HST = $226.00
Go to My Membership Benefits for details & promo code.
→ Info & Registration
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SFM Education+
IT networks for AV professionals public classes
Two days. Small groups (max 12). Hands-on, real-world AV networking.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Fee: $699 per attendee
Multiple dates across Canada:
- Toronto: March 11-12, 2026
- Vancouver: March 25-26, 2026
- Montreal: April 8-9, 2026
- More cities to be announced.
SFM's IT Networks for AV Professionals public class is designed for individual professionals or small AV businesses. This class provides an in-depth review of current technology challenges and solutions for those working in the AV-network-connected world. Participants will explore key topics covering multiple network hardware vendors and audio-video device manufacturers.
→ Info & Registration
→ Learn more about SFM Education+
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Studio Artfefact
Step behind the curtain: the making of the GROTTO
Studio Artefact is taking you backstage of ‘’Bernadette: The Musical’’ to discover how the Grotto of Massabielle took shape for the show’s North American tour, now on stage in Chicago.
Commissioned to carry out the technical design and fabrication of this monumental structure, Studio Artefact's team combined precision engineering, large‑scale 3D printing, expert sculpting and surface artistry to bring the illusion of carved stone to life on stage.
Curious to see how technology and art came together for this project? Dive into the full process in their case study: Studio Artefact original LinkedIn post | CITT/ICTS News site
The images above were taken from the LinkedIn post.
→ Learn more about Studio Artefact
✨ Meet with the Studio Artefact team at EXPO-SCÈNE 2026 in booth #610!
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[British Columbia]
Arts & Entertainment Safety & Training Survey
Actsafe wants to hear from you! Their annual Arts & Entertainment Safety & Training Survey helps shape the priorities, projects and initiatives for 2026.
The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete, and your responses are completely anonymous and confidential.
As a thank-you, after completing the survey, you’ll have the option to enter a random draw for $100 gift cards. Winners will be notified in March 2026. Don’t miss your chance to make a difference and maybe win!
Deadline to fill: March 8, 2026.
→ Take Survey
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Submit press releases, resources, and information about upcoming events for consideration in the Monthly Newsletter and the Industry News section of our website.
Newsletter deadline: please submit your news before the 25th of the month.
⇢ Send here
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ESTA Standards Watch
The latest issue is now available.
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ONLINE READS
from our Media Partners
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Protocol Winter 2026 Issue
This issue marks an important milestone as ESTA celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP). The cover story explores ETCP’s early years, as well as its role across venues, unions, higher education, companies of all sizes, and the power of individual certification in shaping safer workplaces.
Don't miss CITT/ICTS's News Column, on page 80! Dive in to learn more about our upcoming EXPO-SCÈNE and Rendez-vous events, and to read about the organization's background, mission, and community.
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Administrative Coordinator
Stratford Summer Music
Permanent, Full-time
Other
Stratford, Ontario
February 28, 2026
Technical Director
Neptune Theatre
Permanent, Full-time
Production
Halifax, Nova Scotia
February 28, 2026
Chauffeur·euse de production
Festival TransAmériques
temporaire, à temps plein
Production
Festival TransAmériques, Québec
5 mars 2026
Régisseur·se technique (soir) au Quartier Général
Festival TransAmériques
temporaire, à temps plein
Production
Montréal, Québec
6 mars 2026
Scenic Carpenter
Upper Canada Playhouse
Seasonal, Full-time
Production
Morrisburg, Ontario
March 6, 2026
Assistant Master Carpenter
Rainbow Stage (1993) Inc.
Seasonal, Full-time
Technical
Winnipeg, Manitoba
March 6, 2026
Agent·e d’information
Festival TransAmériques
temporaire, à temps plein
Autre
Montréal , Québec
7 mars 2026
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Event Producer
Harbourfront Centre
Permanent, Full-time
Production
Toronto, Ontario
March 13, 2026
Part Time Installer
Stagefab Custom Manufacturing Inc.
Seasonal, Part-time
Technical
Vancouver, British Columbia
March 13, 2026
Senior Manager, Major Gifts
Arts Club Theatre Company
Permanent, Full-time
Management
Vancouver, British Columbia
March 13, 2026
Wigs & Makeup – Show Head / Various Positions
Stratford Festival
Seasonal, Full-time
Production
Stratford, Ontario
March 22, 2026
Technical Director
Singin' In The Rain - Orpheus Musical Theatre Society
Temporary, Part-time
Technical
Ottawa, Ontario
March 31, 2026
General Manager
Upper Canada Playhouse
Permanent, Full-time
Management
Morrisburg, Ontario
March 31, 2026
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Professional Development
& Apprenticeships
| | Do you have an opportunity? | | |
JOIN OR RENEW
It’s About Networking, Best Practices and Sharing of Knowledge!
CITT/ICTS members represent multiple fields of interest and expertise in all areas of production for the live entertainment industry. Join CITT/ICTS or renew your membership today to strengthen the voice of the Canadian live performance community.
Become a Member | Log in to your Member Profile
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