Theatre Under the Stars Musical Society

Theatre Under the Stars Musical Society, commonly known as Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS), is a Canadian nonprofit organisation dedicated to producing high-quality outdoor musical theatre performances. Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, TUTS stages its productions in the historic Malkin Bowl, situated within the picturesque Stanley Park.

History

TUTS was originally founded in 1940 under the auspices of the Vancouver Park Board by board superintendent A.S. Wootten, conductor Basil Horsfall, and actor E.V. Young, with advice from Gordon Hilker. The organisation was established to provide summer entertainment by staging operettas and musicals in the outdoor setting of Malkin Bowl, a bandshell constructed in 1934 using funds donated by former Mayor W.H. Malkin[1][3].

In its early years, TUTS' repertoire included notable operettas such as The Firefly, Rose Marie, and The Red Mill, alongside plays like A Midsummer Night's Dream and As You Like It, and grand opera selections[3]. The organisation also played a pivotal role in training young performers through the BC Institute of Music and Drama, which operated from 1944 until its closure in 1950[3].

By 1949, the Civic Theatre Society took over TUTS' management, allowing the company to produce six- to eight-week summer seasons of iconic musicals such as Finian's Rainbow, Brigadoon, Oklahoma, Annie Get Your Gun, South Pacific, The King and I, Kismet, Guys and Dolls, and Carousel [1][3]. Notably, TUTS premiered Dolores Claman's Timber! in 1952[1][3].

Despite its success, TUTS faced financial difficulties due to bad weather and increased competition from the Vancouver International Festival, leading to its bankruptcy in 1963. However, over its 24-year tenure, TUTS significantly contributed to Vancouver's cultural landscape and nurtured numerous performers' careers, serving as a model for similar outdoor theatres across Canada[1][3].

Revival and Modern Era

After its initial closure, TUTS has been revived and continues to thrive in the heart of Stanley Park. The company has staged a diverse range of productions, from classic Broadway hits like Hello Dolly!, Mary Poppins, and 42nd Street to contemporary favorites such as Shrek the Musical, Legally Blonde, Mamma Mia, and We Will Rock You[5]. This transition reflects TUTS' commitment to evolving and engaging audiences with both traditional and modern theatre experiences.

Mission and Impact

Theatre Under the Stars Musical Society aims to provide high-quality outdoor entertainment, combining the beauty of Stanley Park with professional theatrical performances. By integrating elements such as setting, scenery, and concessions into the theatrical experience, TUTS creates a unique and engaging experience for both local residents and tourists. The organisation celebrates Vancouver's values of creativity, youth, and community engagement, making it a cherished part of the city's cultural heritage[5].

Business Registration

Theatre Under the Stars Musical Society is registered under the Business Registration Number 119282267RR0001.

[1] https://www.tuts.ca/about-tuts/our-story/ [2] https://www.tuts.ca/shows-and-tickets/shows-through-the-years/ [3] https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/theatre-under-the-stars-emc [4] https://www.tuts.ca/about-tuts/ [5] https://www.createastir.ca/theatre-under-the-stars