Mandate

Here Be Monsters Collective (HBM) ventures into uncharted territories to rouse the creatures that lurk in the depths. We are dedicated to producing arts festivals, and facilitating the creation and dissemination of new theatrical works. We curate random acts of creativity (visual art, theme, performance, music, workshops) to enrich any event, creating a fresh, well-rounded, dynamic experience.

HERE BE MONSTERS COLLECTIVE (HBM) is setting out in the new millennium to battle arts exclusivity, combat television addiction, and to bring people off of their sofas and into the realm of experiencing artistic endeavors.

Our main format, “HERE BE MONSTERS: A Carnival of The Arts” is based in part on Wagner’s theory of gesamptkunstwurk, which can be generally defined as, “Total Art Work”. We believe that the theatre should be a full sensory experience. Expression of the collective artistic consciousness is an essential part of our culture.

HBM began in 2004 as a 3-day workshop with the respected improvisation guru Keith Johnstone. The name HERE BE MONSTERS was gleaned from a chapter in one of Johnstone’s books, which addresses the spontaneous spirit. Adults have long discouraged “spontaneous” and “unconscious” forces, declaring, “there lie monsters”. HBM are setting out to celebrate those hidden aspects of our nature using the framework of “Total Art Work” as a starting point.

It is our goal to develop a long-standing and respected presence in the Canadian arts scene. Our integration of visual art, performance and “Monster Bar” have, so far, been extremely well received by both well known arts patrons and people who have “never even seen live theatre”.

Here Be Monster’s Collective strives to create an inspirational environment for both artists and audience.