Bonnie Porteous recognized a need in the Windsor-Essex community and set out to address it. She realized there were few programs available to youth that supported talents beyond sports. Not one to ignore this gap, Bonnie knew she had to act. “Not everyone is sporty or competitive, and with a decline of community and recreational level activities for people of all ages, there is a real gap in accessible programming,” Bonnie says. For this reason, she started both a kids and youth arts program called WECAP (We Community Arts Project) and has never second-guessed this decision.
Creating a program where all people feel they belong has always been Bonn priority. This commitment to full inclusion has enabled her to expand over the years, offering programs for all ages, including adults. In addition to welcoming everyone, Bonnie explains how unique WECAP is in what it offers its members. “In our programs, kids learn to be part of a team. They learn that everyone’s efforts matter, and the presence you bring to the stage all depends on the effort you put into it,” she says. Since this is a community group, the program is approached from a different lens than most theatrical groups. There is a strong focus on team building. Respect, cooperation and fun are of utmost importance, therefore, a great deal of time is set aside for games and team-building activities that help form bonds and friendships amongst cast members. By forming these close friendships, members can celebrate one another’s differences and quirks. As Bonnie says, “The kids learn to appreciate what each other has to offer.”
WECAP is unique because performers not only participate in productions but can also be involved in everything behind the scenes. Most of the props for the shows are built and decorated by the cast. They are also able to take part in costume design. This is an important part of the overall production process because it enables cast members to learn what it takes to produce a show – not just the performance aspect, Bonnie explains. It also allows them to appreciate the work of those who are not performers but are essential for a successful production.
Nicole Atkinson has been a board member for WECAP for almost four years. She first heard about the program through her love for attending local theatre. After speaking with Bonnie about the young people involved in the group, Nicole was convinced this was an organization she wanted to be a part of. She was offered a position on the board and never looked back. Nicole has only positive things to say about her time with WECAP. “I loved how most of the young people performing were shy, quiet and introverts at the start, but would open up and blossom and shine on stage,” she says.
She credits WECAP for giving opportunities to many talented individuals who may not have been able to showcase their abilities elsewhere due to intense competition. In addition, Nicole says, “these young people are learning transferable skills that they will be able to use in their life as they grow.”
Both Bonnie and Nicole are pleased to share that the inclusivity of WECAP has created a true family atmosphere. These young people have developed a close-knit family support system. In doing so, Bonnie says, “They rarely want to leave rehearsal, and many have become friends outside of the program.” Two students from WECAP, Jocelyn Robitaille and Seth Ouellette, have shared rave reviews when discussing their time with the program. Having been a member of WECAP for four years, Jocelyn says, “I’ve been able to discover things about my life I would never have explored otherwise. I have made lifelong bonds and acquired many skills that have bled into every area in my life.” Similarly, Seth credits WECAP with helping him grow, discover new strengths and challenge himself. “Being part of WECAP has been an amazing experience for me. WECAP has strengthened my love for theatre and helped me move closer to achieving my dream of becoming a voice actor,” he says. Feedback from parents has been positive as well. “Parents tell me about the differences they see in their children at home because of the confidence and friendships they’ve developed at WECAP. It’s incredibly gratifying to witness the bonds and sense of belonging that we help to facilitate,” Bonnie says.
Looking ahead, Bonnie and Nicole plan to expand their sponsorship program. Productions are costly, and they hope to offset some expenses through sponsors who can assist with purchasing supplies for set building, and with printing posters, flyers, and programs. WECAP offers perks to sponsors, while families benefit from reduced additional expenses.
WECAP is currently preparing for two upcoming Spring shows: The Wizard of Oz and Shrek Jr. The Wizard of Oz features cast members ranging from 10-55 years old. “We approach all our projects as art in themselves and enjoy staging productions that are a little different from the average,” says Bonnie. She adds that guests can expect exceptional costumes and sets, as each scene is treated like a canvas.
Both shows will be staged at the Masonic Temple Ballroom in Windsor and will run for one week, opening March 26th and closing March 29th, 2026. Tickets are on sale now at Wecommunityartsproject.com
