The Bad Dog Theatre Company

The Bad Dog Theatre Company is an improvisational theatre company based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, established in 2003.[1][2] The theatre produces a range of shows, emphasizing short-form improv, but also exploring other improvisational techniques[citation needed].

The theatre regularly hosts Theatresports shows and long form improv events like the Harold Night at the Bad Dog.[3][4] It has also introduced parody shows in Toronto, such as Hairy Patter and the Improviser's Stone.[5]

Several of the theatre's productions have been nominated for Canadian Comedy Awards[citation needed], and the theatre on Danforth Avenue in Toronto has received recognition from NOW Magazine.[6]

History

The Bad Dog Theatre Company traces its roots back to 1982 as Theatresports Toronto.[7][2] The company's foundational work was influenced by director and playwright, Keith Johnstone[citation needed]. They presented weekly improvisational comedy shows at Harbourfront[citation needed].

Notable alumni from this period include Mike Myers, Tim Sims, Bruce Hunter, and Colin Mochrie.[2]

Theatresports Toronto underwent several venue changes in the 1990s[citation needed]. In 2003, the organization rebranded as The Bad Dog Theatre Company.[2]

The Bad Dog Theatre Company currently provides classes and stages comedy shows in Toronto.[8][9]

Notes

  1. ^ Wild, Stephi (September 27, 2022). "THEATRESPORTS40 Returns to The Bad Dog Theatre Company". BroadwayWorld.com. Retrieved 2024-01-04.
  2. ^ a b c d "Our Story — Bad Dog Theatre Company - Toronto's Best Improv". Bad Dog Theatre Company. Retrieved 2024-01-04.
  3. ^ "About Bad Dog Theatre Company". The Improv Network. Retrieved 2024-01-04.
  4. ^ "It's Happening - East York". Toronto.com. 2009-07-16. Retrieved 2024-01-04.
  5. ^ Sumi, Glenn (2004-10-14). "Hairy's magical improv - NOW Magazine". NOW Toronto. Retrieved 2024-01-04.
  6. ^ "Best of Toronto : Stage". NOW Magazine. 2006-10-26. Retrieved 2008-10-26.
  7. ^ "Twenty Years of Great Toronto Comedy". Geeks. Retrieved 2024-01-04.
  8. ^ "Classes — Bad Dog Theatre Company - Toronto's Best Improv". Bad Dog Theatre Company. Retrieved 2024-01-04.
  9. ^ "Contact — Bad Dog Theatre Company - Toronto's Best Improv". Bad Dog Theatre Company. Retrieved 2024-01-04.

References