Next Stage Theatre Festival Preview

Now in its seventh year, the Next Stage Theatre Festival (NSTF) is a beloved winter tradition for arts lovers in Toronto. Running January 8 to 19 at Factory Theatre, the Toronto Fringe produced NSTF is a platform for Fringe artists to showcase their work to a wider audience, including decision makers who could be interested in programming their shows on main stages across the country. 

This year's lineup includes a variety of styles and genres, including musicals, political dramas and an urban dance show. Featuring an eclectic mix of veteran artists and up-and-coming talent, NSTF is the place to be this month. Tickets are affordable at $10-$15 per show. Passes are also available ($48 for a four-play pass, $88 for an eight-play pass). Did we mention they have a heated beer tent?

Here, we chat with Toronto Fringe Executive Director Kelly Straughan about what audiences can expect from NSTF 2014.

Theatromania: The 2014 NSTF lineup includes musicals, political dramas and an urban dance show. How would you describe this 12-day indie theatre event in a few sentences?

KS: NSTF features some of the best artists and companies on the Fringe circuit. It’s an exciting festival and the caliber of work is second to none.

Theatromania: The 10 shows in the festival are selected by a panel of industry experts. What criteria must a production meet in order to fit the festival bill? Does the Toronto Fringe always try to program a variety of genres?

KS: Yes. We try to program to a variety of genres and styles. Our patrons take in multiple shows and we want to give them a varied experience. The primary applicant of a project must have participated in a CAFF member festival before, though they are not required to apply with a prior Fringe production. A jury of industry experts evaluates applications for the readiness of the project and its participants to take advantage of the professional opportunities offered by the festival; the artistic content of the project and clarity of vision; the degree to which the piece expands, challenges or reconsiders its genre.

Theatromania: Tell us about the McAuslan Beer Tent. What can audiences expect to find inside this time around?

KS: Friendly staff, amazing volunteers, our box office and BEER! It is like being on a sunny beach, but without the beach part, or the ocean. But it’s toasty warm! On Saturday Jan 11th from 8pm-11pm we are throwing a January is the new July party in the heated beer tent. Join NSTF staff, artists and audience members for free desserts and beer samples of McAuslan’s Cheval Blanc.

Theatromania: Is there anything about NSTF that not many people know about?

KS: We are surprised that some people still don’t know it is produced by the Toronto Fringe!

Theatromania: What are your goals for NSTF 2014?

KS: For people to have a great time and take in as many shows as possible…and to beat all box office records!

The Next Stage Theatre Festival runs from January 8 to 19 at Factory Theatre. Visit fringetoronto.com for more information, including a full schedule of shows and showtimes, and to buy tickets.