It all started in 1985…

Ah, the halcyon days of the 1980s, when Alberta was in an economic boom and fledgling Alberta theatres were invested in telling Alberta stories by Alberta writers. Up until that point, government money was given to companies that were producing Alberta playwrights, but there was no support going directly to playwrights. So, on September 25, 1985, Stephen Heatley, Conni Massing, Lyle Victor Albert, Sandra Dempsey, and Raymond Storey got together, and after creating a set of by-laws, forming a board of directors, and applying for status under the Societies Act of Alberta, Alberta Playwrights’ Network was born into existence.

There have been many changes in the theatrical landscape in the past 40 years, but APN has always been a touchstone organization for anyone interested in pursuing the art and craft of writing for the stage.

In celebration of APN’s forty years of service to the playwriting community in the province, we are cooking up a few party plans, so save these dates:

Calgary - September 13, 2025

Edmonton - September 27, 2025


As there are many more stories to tell in this province, we are looking forward being around for another 40 years and continuing the legacy started in 1985.

Trevor Rueger