Stage Door News

Toronto: Common Boots Theatre announces Derek Kwan as its new Artistic Director

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Derek Kwan is a theatre creator working at the intersection of theatre, music and movement in a number of forms including opera, clown, and puppetry. His performing career has taken him across Canada and the globe, from London, England, to performances in Czech Republic, Mexico, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, and China.

In addition to performing, he has previously held administrative and producing positions at fu-GEN Asian Canadian Theatre, Cahoots Theatre Company, Tapestry Opera, and Butterfly Effect Theatre in Taipei, Taiwan. Derek has a particular interest in celebrating intersectional identities, telling stories from different perspectives, and creating theatre for more audiences. Derek is also a therapeutic clown, serving paediatric clients as well as Elders.

“I am thrilled to be joining Common Boots, a theatre company that has felt like a home to me. I look forward to continuing the groundbreaking work of the wonderful previous leaders and to exploring new theatrical horizons, particularly around ideas of integration and inclusion – not just of disciplines and form, but also of artists and audiences. More than ever I look forward to when we can safely come together, laugh, and play.”

Derek Kwan, Artistic Director

“Derek is an incredibly talented performer, director, and educator. His experience is tied to the roots & origins of Common Boots, and the board is very excited to begin our work together.”

Ryan Singh, Board President

Photo: Derek Kwan. © Michael Mori.