Artistic & Career Development Programs

Beginning with the Spirit of a Nation tour in 1992, a core principle of CHAS has been to offer training and opportunities for emerging artists to support their successful launch into professional careers. The Society continues that legacy today with ongoing artistic and career development programs. 

Artist Residency

The Society offers mid-career graduates of the Canadian College of Performing Arts support to further develop new works in progress while also developing their teaching skills providing workshops and talk-back sessions. We aim to engage community members, not only as audiences, but as partner creators and artists themselves, building performances based on their life stories and experiences.

IBPoC Leadership & Mentorship Program

In partnership with the Belfry Theatre and several BC arts organizations, the Society offered a cohort of Indigenous, Black, or PoC (person of colour) applicants access to seminars and training from experienced mentors with shared lived experience, followed by placements in an arts organization of their choosing. This opportunity helps to level the playing field, ensure future leadership in the BC arts sector reflects our country’s diversity, and support talented individuals wishing to pursue a career in management or leadership in the performing arts.

Production & Event Support

Venue space and equipment is offered at reduced rates to emerging artists and not-for-profits to support charitable events and artistic creation.