Walterdale Theatre Associates began as Theatre Associates in 1958 and has produced a season of theatre ever since.  Walterdale is one of western Canada’s oldest purely amateur theatre groups.  Save for a part-time administrator, everyone who contributes to a Walterdale production, on-stage or backstage, does it “for love, not money.”

The name “Walterdale” comes from the company’s first permanent home, the former Walterdale School.  Theatre Associates renovated the one room building into the intimate Walterdale Playhouse.  Unfortunately, the construction plans for the Kinsmen Fieldhouse called for the demolition of the Playhouse.  Theatre Associates then renovated the former Legion of Frontiersmen Hall into a new theatre; this “permanent” home had to make way for the construction of Kingsway Mall.  Theatre Associates then converted the former Number Six Fire Hall in Old Strathcona into our current home.  The name Walterdale Playhouse has been conferred on each of the successor buildings out of affection for the original space, and the name added to the company’s legal name as “Walterdale Theatre Associates.”

Walterdale is proud of its tradition of theatrical excellence and innovation.  Early in its history, it brought new plays from the West End and New York to Edmonton audiences.  As well, Walterdale has championed Canadian playwrights and new works.  Walterdale mounts a full season of six major productions annually, as well as presenting readings, workshops, and other events.

Walterdale Theatre Associates is committed to being an open community, welcoming everyone with an interest in theatre.  The company is very proud that it holds open auditions for all aspects of every production and welcomes new and old contributors on every show.  In this diversity is Walterdale’s enduring strength.

The current location was designated a Provincial Historic Resource on September 13, 2007 and a Municipal Historic Resource on September 27, 2011.