Green Fools Theatre Society is a non-profit charitable organization that creates, performs, and promotes the art of physical theatre, puppetry, circus, clowning, and masks. This socially conscious and interactive group focuses primarily on children and their well-being.
With a mission to improve young people’s physical and mental health through art, Green Fools serves as a creative hub where artists from diverse backgrounds come together to showcase their work and offer educational programs. These include camps, workshops for schools and community organizations, free social circus programs for at-risk youth, Indigenous populations, newcomers, refugees, and a dedicated circus school. Learn more about their inspiring story on calgary-trend.
Founding of Green Fools
In 1991, Dean Bareham and Xstine Cook founded Green Fools Theatre Society to share the knowledge they gained from the International Dell’Arte School of Physical Theatre in California.
- Dean Bareham, an actor and Green Fools’ Artistic Director, is a celebrated stilt walker who has conducted workshops worldwide, including in Canada, Europe, South America, and Asia. Dean has also performed with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, National Symphony Orchestra, and Cirque du Soleil.
- Xstine Cook is an artist specializing in animation, mask-making, puppetry, and experimental theatre. She is also the founder and Artistic Director of the Calgary Animated Objects Society (CAOS) and curator of the International Festival of Animated Objects in Calgary.
What Does Green Fools Do?
Since its inception, Green Fools has introduced Calgary residents to stilt walking, physical and puppet theatre, fine arts, elaborate costumes, and masks.
Until 2014, Green Fools hosted Calgary’s April Fool’s Day Parade, and until 2016, they organized a Halloween Party. These events cultivated a sense of playfulness and adventure in the city, boosting spirits and fostering community.
Formerly known as The Frying Fool Show, this performance is a crowd favorite and has toured globally. Gustavo, one of Calgary’s most beloved characters, brings joy to festivals, schools, and special events with minimal technical requirements, making it adaptable for both indoor and outdoor venues.
Green Fools collaborates with skilled artists, designers, puppeteers, musicians, and directors to create engaging performances and social initiatives. The troupe tours internationally, performing in custom-made masks and costumes designed with local professionals.
Green Fools emphasizes youth engagement through camps and workshops that build confidence, teamwork, and self-esteem. In 2021, they launched a circus school offering weekly aerial and circus classes for children as young as three.
In 2014, Green Fools partnered with Calgary Young People’s Theatre and Ghost River Theatre to create the West Village Theatre Society, a cultural space for the artistic community.
Social Circus: Art for Change
In 2007, Green Fools joined forces with Cirque du Monde, introducing the Social Circus concept. This initiative uses circus arts as a tool for personal and social development, focusing on inclusion, accessibility, and learning through play.
Social Circus caters to marginalized groups, including at-risk youth, Indigenous communities, immigrants, and refugees. It fosters creativity and essential life skills through non-competitive, inclusive activities.
A Talented Team
Key Figures:
- Mooky Cornish: A professional clown since her teens, Mooky has performed at prestigious venues like London’s Royal Albert Hall and the Sydney Opera House.
- Jenny Esdale: A playwright, director, actor, and former Artistic Director of Green Fools, Jenny has toured globally, strengthening the organization’s reputation as a professional performing arts society.
- Shelly Bareham: Known for her expertise in costume, mask, and puppet design, Shelly has shaped the creative identity of Green Fools.
Green Fools’ Impact
Each year, Green Fools reaches thousands of audience members through performances, festivals, workshops, and tours. From fostering community spirit with events to empowering youth with accessible artistic programs, Green Fools continues to enrich Calgary’s cultural landscape.
