Programming > Artist & Project Development

Artist & Project Development

Artist Development is a huge part of what we do and what we champion. Whether through our various creation units, our outreach programs, our script development residencies, or our current and upcoming mentorship initiatives, we're inspired to help talented and curious people step into their bravest, most authentic artist selves and to turn up the volume on their creative voices. So as you can imagine, at Cahoots there are always exciting works-in-progress on the stovetop!

Dating by Design

2025/2026

Are you an up-and-coming theatre designer who falls under our mandate?  In March of 2026, design a date with us at Cahoots!

As part of our GAP(s) initiative, we’re going to be meeting with early-career set, costume, sound, lighting, props, and projection designers to learn about talent that we haven’t encountered yet.  We absolutely love connecting with and giving opportunities to new designers, so stay tuned on our events page for more info about how to make your date with us!

Pepper Pot

2025/2026

PEPPERPOT returns, with a twist!

PepperPot is a gathering of theatre students of colour, who are often one of an extremely small number of non-white students in their programs, if not the only one.  PepperPot provides a sense of community and support to these students, who are able to not only build new connections and potential friendships/post- grad collaborative partnerships, but can also honestly discuss their experiences as a racial minority in an atmosphere of emotional safety and shared understanding.  Extremely successful as a recurring online event during the pandemic, for the first time we will hold PepperPot in person!

Sunday April 19th, 2026
12pm - 3pm

Come PLAY With Me

2025/2026

ACTING CLASSES COME TO CAHOOTS!  We are excited to mark the return of Come PLAY With Me, taught by our artistic director.  CPWM is the Scene Study and acting course that Tanisha created and led independently in 2018/19.  Newly re-conceived, the class —predominantly spotlighting the work of playwrights of colour — is now a 10-session Cahoots offering.  Inspired by Tanisha’s Contemporary Canadian and American Scene Study classes at George Brown Theatre School, Come PLAY With Me will combine fascinating discussions about the artistic merits and sociopolitical relevance of some of today’s most compelling works with thoughtful, nuanced acting instruction aimed at the crafting, refining and deepening of stirring dramatic and comedic performances.  

Course Fee: $295
10 weeks, 3.5 hours each
May/June 2026
Cahoots Creation Studio

GRADually

2025/2026

Recent graduates who fall under our mandate… our GRADually workshop returns for the third consecutive year!  Being fresh out of theatre training can be daunting. You've finished your program and are ready to start a career — but you don't know many folks in the business, or whom you even need to know.  How does a new grad build their network and increase their knowledge? GRADually!  We love being introduced to new theatremakers.  Come and tell us who you are, what you've done, what you're into and what your goals are.  We’ll happily share helpful info and hints!
 

Pocket Change

2025/2026

Many indie artists want to take control of their finances, build a solid financial base, and make a change.  Look no further!  Join us for an insightful workshop designed specifically for you.  Learn essential personal financial skills tailored to the unique needs of artists, steps to  building a practical project budget, how to apply for grants, money-saving and creative strategies, and how to wade into the world of investing so that your money can work for you.  Change how you look at what’s in your pocket!

Theatre is what we do

We tell the stories that pulsate in the shadows.

We hand the mic to those who have gone unheard.

We turn up the volume and refocus the spotlight.

... and we've done it for 35 years and counting.

See all our past shows
Ryan Rosery, Shakura Dickson, and Peter N. Bailey are watching Virgilia Griffith as she is speaking to the audience passionately. There are three concrete blocks on stage and a fence in the background

Ryan Rosery, Virgilia Griffith, Shakura Dickson, Peter Bailey in Other Side of the Game by Amanda Parris. An Obsidian/Cahoots co-production. Photo by Dahlia Katz.