Welcome to the National Theatre School of Canada
Since its founding in 1960, the NTS has been dedicated to excellence in theatre training, driven by a constantly evolving pedagogy. At the intersection of tradition and innovation, transmission and creation, it trains the artists and craftspeople who shape the theatre of today and tomorrow.
The School was born from a strong conviction: “To meet the needs of its theatre, Canada must train its own artists and cultural workers.“In this spirit, Michel Saint-Denis officially inaugurated the School on November 2, 1960.
Mission
To serve the evolving needs of Canadian theatre, NTS:
- Provides incomparable training in English and French to actors, directors, playwrights, designers and production specialists to prepare them to work in professional theatre;
- Delivers a broad range of community programs in order to make theatre more accessible to all Canadians.
Vision
As a world leader in theatre training, NTS shares its expertise and resources with a broad and diverse community of Canadians, ensuring that the performing arts continue to play a vital role in society.
1960
On November 2, Michel Saint-Denis officially opens the School.
“To meet the needs of Canada’s theatre, this country must train its own artists and workers.” With these words, a plan was launched for the establishment of NTS.
1961
- The Production Program is launched and includes Design and Technical courses.
- The School holds its first summer session in Stratford and would continue to do so until 1965.
1963
First graduating class, including, among others, Paul Hecht and Martha Henry.
1967
The Community Players Theatre Library is turned over to the School, on condition that it remain open to the public.
1970
The School kicks off its 10th academic year by opening its new premises at 5030 Saint-Denis Street, where the main campus is still located today.
1975
The Écriture dramatique program, headed by André Pagé, director of the Interprétation française section, is created.
1978
The School becomes the official owner of the Monument-National.
1980
The Playwriting program is created.
1986
Two major shows featuring graduates of the School depart on a cross-Canada tour to mark the institution’s first quarter-century.
1992
Graduating students from the Acting program travel to Russia for a training workshop at the Moscow Theatre School.
1993
After a vast restoration, the renovated Monument-National is officially opened on June 24.
2001
The Directing and Mise en scène programs are created.
2011
First-ever Homecoming Weekend, October 28 to 30, with close to 400 alumni in attendance from across Canada and abroad.
2016
Creation of the Artistic Residency Program which offers three pathways for professional artists to support them on their artistic journey: Artistic Leadership, Indigenous Artist in Residence and Design. The School also starts working towards a new strategic plan to give more Canadians access to its expertise and facilities, including Indigenous artists, young people, businesses, professional theatre practioners, and the general public.
2017
Creation of the Community Engagement Department to open the School’s doors to as many people as possible through courses, workshops, and programs. That same year, NTS ensured the legacy of the Sears Drama Festival, which later became the NTS DramaFest.
2018
A pilot project of public workshops receives its first students in Montreal. Over 400 adults and youth register over the fall and winter in acting, writing, choir or production classes.
2019
The Monumental Transformation campaign reaches its $1.5 million goal.
2025
The School celebrates its 65th anniversary, as well as the 50th anniversary of the Écriture dramatique program. True to its mission of providing exceptional training to the artists of tomorrow, NTS remains committed to shaping the future of theatre and fostering the sharing of knowledge, meaningful encounters, and dialogue.
