Lynda Hill has certainly made her mark on Toronto’s theatre scene, particularly for the smallest of theatre-goers. With a passion for theatre for young audiences, she’s the founder of the WeeFestival! I got to ask Lynda about the festival, what audiences can expect, and what it’s like making theatre for young audiences!

Could you please introduce yourself and talk a bit about your role with the WeeFestival?

I am the artistic director of WeeFestival. I am a theatre creator, teaching artist,  and curator with a focus on theatre and performance for young audiences and with a special interest in very young and other extraordinary audiences.

What can audiences expect from this year’s WeeFestival?

This year’s programme is full of live music, movement and dance, and rich imagery, all for children under 6 years. I’m also super excited about the new work that we’re sharing in this year’s programme including two festival commissions. Cooo, a contemporary vocal work with Xin Wang and Michael Murphy, and brand new Seedling Project from 3 artists of the acclaimed group Kuné, Canada’s Global Orchestra.

What makes theatre for young audiences, particularly very little ones, so exciting?

As we know the first 5 years of a child’s development are the most important. Early exposure to rich arts and cultural experiences has a lasting impact on children and young people! We’re literally engaging the artists and audiences of the future. Furthermore, we’re passionate about upholding their cultural rights as young citizens.

What’s your favourite part about putting on a whole festival just for little theatregoers and their families?

Welcoming the audiences of families, kindergarten classes, and daycare groups! I am so excited to see the little ones arrive I have to stop myself from swooping them up in my arms and carrying them into the theatre myself. I also really love watching the audience, especially the babies, as they engage with complex and

beautiful art made just for them. As the playwright Veronique Cote said about theatre for early years, “It is like having a conversation with the beginning of the world.”

Is there a show or performance that you’re looking forward to the most?

Of course I am looking forward to all of the shows but it will be the opening performance on May 22 of Tree: A World in Itself, a show created especially for children with Developmental Disabilities. I can’t wait to witness the reactions of our 15 special guests attending that day!

I want to thank Lynda for taking the time to answer my questions. You can find out more about the WeeFestival here: WeeFestival » Arts and Culture for Early Years

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