About K-W Musical Productions
Kitchener Waterloo Musical Productions or KWMP, is a not-for-profit community theatre organization that produces 2-3 musicals per year in Waterloo Region.
KWMP was founded in 1948 as the Twin City Operatic Society and has produced over 100 full-scale musicals over the past 70 plus years. The early productions were performed in the auditorium at The Church of the Good Shepherd (on Queen Street across from the Centre in the Square) in Kitchener. As the performances grew and a larger space was needed, the stages at Kitchener Collegiate Institute (KCI) and Waterloo Collegiate Institute (WCI) fit the bill. In 1964, the group purchased the building on Shaftsbury Drive and was renamed Kitchener Waterloo Musical Productions as a reflection of its artistic programming. The Shaftesbury location gave the group a permanent home capable of providing rehearsal space, a workshop and storage.
KWMP’s Mission Statement
K-W Musical Productions gives members of Waterloo Region a chance to experience high-quality community theatre, both on and off stage. We endeavour to make our shows affordable, entertaining and inclusive while providing training for the next generation.
Five Driving Priorities
In 2015 the KWMP Board of Directors set out five goals that we are working toward achieving as an organization:
Top Caliber Community Theatre
High quality, accessible theatre financially and generational, KWMP aims to be one of the top community theatre groups in Ontario.
Outstanding Community Engagement
KWMP is well connected in the community and endeavours to provide some leadership in the arts community through collaboration and community activities.
Nurturing Inclusive Culture
KWMP aims to provide an opportunity for the entire family to participate in an organization that is welcoming and supportive.
Competitive Sustainable Theatre
Long-term success for KWMP means engaging with members and volunteers, succession planning and remaining fiscally sound.
Cultivating Talent
Members of KWMP have the ability to work with talented professional artists, to be mentored, to learn about the craft on and off stage.
KWMP Land Acknowledgement
K-W Musical Productions would like to respectfully acknowledge that the lands on which it gathers are the unceded traditional home of the Neutral, Anishinaabe (Ah-nish-nah-bay), and Haudenosaunee (Ho-deh-no-show-nee) Peoples.
We recognize that we share this territory and the responsibility of its care. In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge the diverse histories, deep-rooted traditions and cultures of all the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit in our community.
KWMP Diversity Statement
K-W Musical Productions’ community is enriched by diversity and inclusion. We recognize that every person brings a unique perspective and experience. When individuals feel respected, included, and fully welcomed to participate; our community becomes more inspired, innovative, and fulfilled — creating greater art.
KWMP is committed to increasing equal opportunity, diversity and a future of inclusivity. We welcome and encourage persons of any identity, orientation, and ability to join our community.
KWMP’s Board of Directors 2023/2024
The volunteer Board of Directors for KWMP serves as the guiding force behind the scenes, steering the organization towards artistic excellence and community engagement. Committed to supporting the organization’s mission, they provide strategic leadership, financial oversight, and ensure the long-term sustainability of our vibrant musical community. With their dedication, the board plays a crucial role in fostering creativity, inclusivity, and the continued success of our local musical theatre endeavours.
- Lynne Barna (she/her) – President
- Julia Malott (she/her) – Vice President
- Hayley McLennan (she/her) – Assistant Vice President
- John Bigelow (he/him) – Treasurer
- Tristan Pilcher (he/him)
- Kelly Legault (she/her)
- Thomas Humphries (he/him)
- Charlie Brohman (he/him)
- Jessica Blondin (she/her)
- Brent Roth (he/him)
Resources