Smile Theatre is a registered charity that has been bringing joy to seniors in care for over 50 years. We enrich lives by presenting professional, thoughtfully crafted musical theatre performances created especially for older adults.
Beyond our shows, we also offer creative programs and practical resources to help care workers and family members connect more deeply with their loved ones. Our work reaches people in Long-Term Care, Retirement Homes, Seniors’ Active Living Centres, Rehabilitation Centres, and Mental Health Facilities—making every interaction more meaningful and memorable.
Our History
Smile Theatre has been serving seniors since 1972. We have been recognized with the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for the Arts, The Brenda Donahue Award, and our work is supported by The Ontario Arts Council and the Toronto Arts Council and numerous caring private foundations, corporations and individuals. We do our work each year with diligence – consistently, expertly, often unnoticed by the mainstream and with passion.
Our biggest accomplishment? Our commitment to the highest quality performances, no matter how small the space we perform in, or whatever the circumstances.
Tom Carson
Executive Director
Tom has been working in theatre for over thirty years as a director, producer/administrator, writer and teacher. He is a dynamic artistic leader and catalyst from performance projects that have reached audiences internationally. Tom has a special interest in work for vulnerable audiences, ranging from young children to adults in the special needs community, and to seniors, and those living in care.
Stephanie Kalisky
Performance Bookings & Office Manager
Stephanie brings her extensive experience in customer service and administration to Smile Theatre. She has worked in a wide variety of settings, from the Customer Service departments of large corporations, to running small businesses. Stephanie is dedicated to extending the positive “Smile Experience” to all aspects of the company, not just on the stage.
Board of Directors
Kate Barris
President
Wendy Li
Treasurer
Annie Noa Kennet
Secretary
Jacoba Knaapen
Director
Caitlin McCabe
Director
Lisa Marie DiLiberto
Director