Support Our Students

Since 1966, the Department of Theatre at the University of Victoria has been training the theatre artists of tomorrow. Our graduates are integral to the arts community in Victoria, across Canada, and internationally.

We believe theatre is best learned by doing. Blending academic study with hands-on experience, students take part in every aspect of Phoenix productions — from acting and directing to design, technical production, and arts management, including audience services and marketing — as an essential part of their education.

To learn more, please visit UVic’s Department of Theatre website.

Do you love live theatre? Want to help shape the future of theatre in our community and across Canada?

Your support of the Phoenix Theatre and the Department of Theatre makes a meaningful difference in the education of Canada’s next generation of theatre artists.

Our Funding Challenge

To sustain this vital work, we must fundraise to cover essential production costs — including sets, costumes, and props. While our mainstage productions are central to our curriculum, university funding does not cover the full cost of bringing them to life. Ticket prices are intentionally kept affordable to ensure theatre remains accessible, but they cover only two-thirds of our expenses.

We rely on donations and corporate sponsorship to remain financially sustainable.

You can make a meaningful impact by making a tax-deductible gift, establishing a bursary or scholarship, sponsoring a production or program, supporting a special project, or leaving a legacy for future generations of theatre artists.

No matter the size of your donation, your annual support contributes greatly to the costs of paint, lumber, fabric and other essentials for the production of theatre. Individual donors are listed in each play’s program and receive a personal letter from the department chair. Tax-deductible receipts are issued through the University of Victoria. 100% of donations given directly to the Department of Theatre are used to support department programming.

Donate now!

Theatre students have one of the busiest schedules on campus. Between classes during the day and rehearsals four nights a week and all day Saturday, it leaves little time for a part-time job. Your support can help them achieve their best while at UVic. From entrance scholarships for first-year students to scholarships for graduate students, help ensure UVic continues to attract the best and brightest!

Consider setting up an endowment fund for the permanent annual support of a bursary or scholarship award.

  • Bursaries are awarded to students who are able to show financial need.
  • Scholarships are awarded to students who show academic excellence.
  • Leave a legacy or honour someone in perpetuity by establishing an award in his or her name.
  • Designate an award for students in a specific area of study or specialization. Click here to see a list of entrance awards.
  • Awards are attributed to students through UVic Student Awards and Financial Aid in conjunction with the department.

For details, contact the Fine Arts Development Officer at 250-721-6305.

Contributing to one of the Department of Theatre’s special projects assists us in reaching long-term creative goals and maintaining our state-of-the-art facility and theatre spaces.

Here are some current opportunities in the department:

  • New lighting equipment and operating boards
  • New or restored theatre seating for Roger Bishop Theatre and Chief Dan George Theatre
  • Endowed funding for annual guest artist/instructor

For details and recognition opportunities, contact the Phoenix Theatre Marketing & Communications Manager

A successful business recognizes the benefits of working together with your clients, your neighbours, and your community. There is strength in numbers. UVic’s Phoenix Theatre wants to bring our numbers to your business. A partnership with the Phoenix Theatre offers important financial support for the cost of producing quality theatre, and it can also offer you access to:

  • 25,000+ community of students, staff and faculty at UVic
  • Approximately 1500 loyal Phoenix Theatre subscribers (many for over 20 years)
  • Almost 10,000 regular Victoria area attendees

Consider the benefits supporting us can bring your business:

  • A donation to the Phoenix Theatre places your business name in each of our four plays’ programmes.
  • Become a Presenting Sponsor of one of our plays, or a Season Partner, and we will customize a sponsorship package to serve your corporate goals.

For details about sponsorship opportunities and recognition packages, contact the Phoenix Theatre Marketing and Communications Manager.

Theatre engages us to think more broadly, feel more deeply and aspire to greater things. We have all left a profound theatrical experience, feeling more human and more connected to our world. Planned giving offers the opportunity for you to make a difference and leave a personal legacy for the future of theatre.

In consultation with your financial advisors, our planned giving program can assist you in reaching your philanthropic goals and ensure the intent of your current or future gift. Whether through a bequest in a will or through life insurance, endowments, and trusts, planned giving can also offer significant tax benefits while allowing the donor to maintain financial security.

For more information, see the UVic Planned Giving or contact the Fine Arts Development Officer at 250-721-6305.