“As a result of what Sum Theatre does you see the connection throughout the community. It s right there. It happens right after the show, as we re taking down. We hear all these conversations, and we see all these connections happening. ”
– Ed
A Stage For Everyone: Local Theatre Builds Community and Inspires Youth
When you re watching a show with a bunch of other people, it reminds you that you re not alone. The stories that we re telling all have universal themes that really speak to what makes us human and that unites us all in that moment.
-Ed
Ed Mendez was born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where he discovered his passion for acting during his time at the University of Saskatchewan. Since 2008, he has been a dedicated professional actor, bringing characters to life on stages across Saskatoon.
One of those stages is Sum Theatre. Sum Theatre, a Youth+Us Partner, is a Saskatoon based independent theatre company, guided by values of fun, inclusion, innovation, reciprocity, and empathy. Sum Theatre productions have been seen throughout Saskatchewan and across Canada.
We’re in this together
Theater in the Park is the flagship program of Sum Theater, bringing free, live, family-friendly theater to parks all over Saskatoon and beyond, attracting thousands of
people. The program is unique; instead of inviting the audience to the theatre, the theatre comes to them, transforming local parks into stages. It s a community building initiative that breaks down barriers and invites everyone to participate.
“When you re watching a show with a bunch of other people, it reminds you that you re not alone,” says Ed, reflecting on the benefits of live theatre. The stories that we re telling all have universal themes that really speak to what makes us human and that unites us all in that moment.”
Connection creates community
For Ed, this summer marked a special milestone. Though he had attended every Theatre in the Park show for the past 12 years, it was his first time performing on stage. Performing with Sum Theatre felt like coming home to a community that had always been a part of his life.
“It ‘s about seeing that audience reaction, sparking that joy, and making those laughs come
out,” says Ed. That s what keeps me going.”
The impact of Theatre in the Park on the community is profound. Ed vividly recalls the genuine reactions from children dancing, singing along, and even giving him drawings of his character. These moments are not just heartwarming; they inspire future generations. Children often approach him after shows, expressing their dreams of becoming actors, and sometimes even helping with the show setups. The connections formed during these performances extend beyond the stage, fostering a sense of belonging and community among the audience
As a result of what Sum Theatre does you see the connection throughout the community. It s right there. It happens right after the show, as we re taking down. We hear all these conversations, and we see all these connections happening.
-Ed
Building sets & building the future
The experience with Sum Theatre has been transformative not just for the community, but for Ed as well. From improving his skill set to elevating his confidence to inspiring the next generation of youth.
Showing kids that are more artistic that the things they love can make an impact on our community that s huge. It inspires them and it helps them to build some of those core memories that are going to help them find their path in life later on.
-Ed
“Thank you so much for strengthening youth and communities across Saskatchewan, because your support has impacted thousands of youth and their families,” shares Ed. The impact that you have had it s not just the 45 minutes we re there doing the show it s a lifelong impact. So thank you for helping to build the future.”
