It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Courtenay Dobbie (MFA in Directing, 2013). Courtenay was a beloved member of our community, known for her warmth, creativity, and unwavering dedication to the arts.
As Artistic Director of Caravan Farm Theatre (2011–2016), Courtenay championed new plays and playwrights, leaving an indelible mark on the theatre landscape. She went on to lead Studio 58, the theatre training program at Langara College, as Artistic Director from 2021 until her passing, where she inspired a new generation of theatre artists with her calm, playful presence and her steadfast commitment to leading with care and kindness.
From Professor Tom Scholte: “Courtenay was a bright light and already a vital and accomplished member of BC’s theatre community by the time we welcomed her to the MFA Directing program, where I had the distinct privilege of serving as her thesis supervisor. Unsurprisingly, her talents where much in demand and, when the opportunity came for her to, literally, “take the reigns” at Caravan Farm Theatre in Armstrong, BC, we all felt it was absolutely necessary to support her in making this career move while still pursuing her degree. So, while it was an unconventional thesis production, given that it was taking place so far out of town, I was still able to enjoy a rich collaboration with her as I witnessed the rigour and dedication with which she set about weaving a magical holiday spell for so many delighted families with her production of The Gift Horse. That experience was also a gift to me that I continue to cherish. Courtenay gave much to all those who collaborated with and learned from her. She left our community a richer place than she found it and will be dearly missed.”
From Professor Stephen Heatley: “Courtney was a passionate theatre maker who brought light and magic to everything she did. During her time at UBC, I was lucky enough to experience her thesis production, The Gift Horse, which was presented at the Caravan Farm. It was staged outdoors in December and it was really, really cold that night. However, the warmth and beauty of the story and her production more than made up for the frosty environment. Courtenay and I kept in touch over the years, especially once she became the Artistic Director of the Studio 58 theatre training program at Langara College. We had many lovely and inspiring conversations about the joys and challenges of running a post-secondary department, especially through the Covid 19 pandemic. Courtenay was the real thing and she is already greatly missed.”
Our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends and all those whose lives she touched. A Go Fund Me fundraiser has been created to support her husband and two young kids. Click here to donate.
