Brief History

Necessary Angel is considered one of English Canada’s most vital original creation and touring organizations. The company has a history of innovation and risk taking and engages theatre artists from a variety of disciplines in the creation of new work. An influential and original presence on the national and international theatre scene for nearly 40 years, we have produced more than 60 productions, including 30 world premieres and 11 North American premieres. Work created by Necessary Angel has been nominated for and has won Governor General’s Awards for Drama, Chalmers Awards for Outstanding New Play, and numerous Dora Mavor Moore Awards.

We have been privileged to work with outstanding literary figures such as Michael Ondaatje and Timothy Findley. A catalyst for groundbreaking original work, Necessary Angel has collaborated with some of Canada’s most acclaimed theatre artists: Jordan Tannahill, Dairine Ni Mheadra, Daniel MacIvor, Saidah Baba Talibah, John Mighton, Colleen Murphy, Teresa Przybylski, Jason Sherman, Colleen Wagner, David Young, Marie-Josee Chartier and Jonathon Young.

Alan Dilworth was appointed Artistic Director of Necessary Angel Theatre Company on June 1st, 2019.  

Necessary Angel was founded by Richard Rose in 1978. Daniel Brooks led as artistic director from 2003 to 2012. Jennifer Tarver took over as artistic director in 2013 and held the position until the end of 2018.