Why was the Youth group started?

We started the group to help the next generation of queer artists find their artistic voices and provide them with opportunities to share them, and to teach the next generation of lesbians and gays about the struggles of those before them and to help them find artistic and creative ways to express these discoveries.

Do you need to have previous experience or training in theatre to get involved in the Buddies Youth Programme?

Nope! You only have to be interested in performing arts (or even other related arts) – and have a desire to learn, create and participate.

What do you mean by “queer”?

We use queer as an inclusive word to encompass the identities of people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, Transexual, Two-Spirited, queer or questioning.

Our definition of queer here at Buddies also refers to “anything different or outside of the norm”, which represents the nature of artistic work presented by the company.

Do I have to identify as queer to participate in youth events?

Since there are often limited spots available for our programmes, we strongly prioritizing queer-identified youth.

Do I have to attend every week?

That depends on what part of the programme you get involved with!

If you want to sign up for any Wednesday workshops, the monthly Queer Cab or to get free tickets to see shows, you can just sign up for the things you’re interested in. You can come once, or a few times, or every week.

Pride Cab and the Young Creators Unit both involve a regular weekly commitment for the duration of those projects.

So I could just sign up for one event?

That’s right….you can just come once, if there’s only one show or workshop you’re interested in or available for. Or, you can come every week. It’s up to you.

How much do the workshops cost?

All our workshops and programmes are FREE of charge. (Although at Queer Cab , we do pass the hat, and ask people who are not performing to Pay-What-You-Can.)

How strict is the age range?

Our programme is open to youth ages 15-25yrs.

How many free tickets for shows can I sign up for?

Just one ticket per person.

Can I bring a friend?

If your friend is a queer-identified youth under 25, then get your friend to sign up themselves!

I can’t come on the date that’s listed for free youth tickets – can I come on another date?

The free youth tickets are only available on the date listed. But there are other ways to see the shows and not pay full price: Sunday matinees are always Pay-What-You-Can, and if you sign up for a volunteer shift, you can see a show for free.

I’m hoping to perform in Queer Cab. What time should I show up?

7:30 pm is performer sign up. All the information about Queer Cab can be found here .

How did the Youth Group start?

You can read all about our history and background here .

Have more questions?

We're happy to try and answer any other questions you might have. Contact Chy Spain at 416-975-9130 ext 21.