Carousel Theatre for Young People

Carousel Theatre for Young People sits in the heart of what is now known as Granville Island—on the ancestral and unceded territory of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. Long before it became a hub for artists and artisans, this place was two sandbars in San’aq (False Creek), where local Nations gathered food, built community, and shared stories. This deep-rooted connection to land and community shapes every aspect of the work at Carousel, inspiring it to create theatre that is both meaningful and deeply connected to the world around us.

Since 1976, CTYP has been a leader in Theatre for Young Audiences, committed to producing vibrant, relevant, and innovative work for children, youth, and families. CTYP believes that young audiences deserve theatre that respects their intelligence, honours their experiences, and sparks their curiosity. Whether it is exploring themes of identity, climate change, or social justice, CTYP aims to ignite conversations that extend far beyond the theatre walls—into classrooms, living rooms, and communities.

The work that Carousel does for young people lays the groundwork for a lifelong relationship with the arts. From Baby Raves to teen-led devised theatre, the company’s programming is intentionally crafted to meet young people where they are, speak to what matters to them, and empower them to imagine new possibilities. CTYP actively centres voices that have historically been excluded, developing new Canadian work that highlights 2SLGBTQI+, IBPOC, disabled, and multilingual perspectives. Its goal is to reshape the TYA canon in Canada—to make space for stories that feel both familiar and fresh, resonant and radical. With careful planning, community partnerships, and ongoing advocacy at the national and international level, the team is laying the foundation for a bold and brilliant future for CTYP—and for every young person who walks through its doors.