Iain Moggach is a Canadian award-winning theatre director, producer, and performing arts educator based in Barrie, Ontario. Known for his compelling stage direction and dedication to arts mentorship, Iain has built a national reputation for creating emotionally resonant, visually imaginative, and actor-centred productions.

Originally from Ottawa, Iain has directed professional theatre productions in seven cities across Canada, working in diverse styles including musicals, Shakespeare, contemporary drama, historical storytelling, and world premieres of new Canadian plays. As a theatre producer, he has led more than 24 projects, collaborating with artists, playwrights, and organizations to bring bold, meaningful work to the stage.

Iain’s directing practice is grounded in rigorous dramaturgy, collaborative leadership, and actor-driven processes. He creates rehearsal environments that are safe, open, and creatively focused; spaces where artistic risk is encouraged and emotional honesty is prioritized. He is particularly drawn to plays that explore memory, time, and the lingering impact of the past on the present. His aesthetic favours poetic theatricality over strict realism: intimate, emotionally precise, and unapologetically human.

As a theatre educator and mentor, Iain has developed programs for emerging directors and producers, facilitated workshops for arts organizations, and championed the growth of regional theatre across Ontario. His work reflects a deep commitment to the future of Canadian theatre and to building inclusive, supportive spaces for the next generation of performing artists.

Looking ahead, Iain is actively seeking new creative partnerships with professional theatre companies. He is open to directing opportunities in classical theatre, new play development, regional theatre productions and festivals, and touring productions across Canada and internationally.

This site primarily highlights Iain’s work as a stage director (his central creative and professional focus) but also features updates on his roles as a theatre producer, teaching artist, and consultant for arts organizations.

Thank you for visiting, and for your interest in Iain’s career, collaborations, and creative journey.

Early Training & Education

Iain discovered his passion for directing while attending the prestigious drama program at Canterbury High School in Ottawa. There, he served as Assistant Director on The Triangle Factory Fire Project, marking his first step toward a career in professional stage direction.

At Carleton University, where he earned his undergraduate degree, Iain became active with Sock ‘N’ Buskin, the university’s celebrated theatre company. He gained hands-on experience as a director, stage manager, and board member - deepening his understanding of collaborative theatre-making and solidifying his commitment to the Canadian performing arts sector.

He later attended George Brown Theatre School in Toronto to study acting. During his time there, he was invited to work as a Text Coach (ie. Assistant Director) on Mary Stuart under acclaimed Canadian director Jeannette Lambermont-Morey, who recognized Iain’s directorial potential. This opportunity helped shape his approach to actor-focused and text-driven theatre.

Theatre by the Bay

Immediately after graduating, Iain joined the Indie Producer Co-op at Theatre by the Bay, a regional theatre company in Barrie, Ontario. He quickly rose through the ranks - first as General Manager, then Executive Director, and ultimately Artistic Director from 2018 to 2024.

Key Productions & Impact

During his tenure as Artistic Director, Iain directed several major productions, including The Ghost Watchers (2021), A Scandal for All Seasons (2022), and Icemen (2023). He was also slated to direct the world premiere of If I Only... by acclaimed Canadian playwright Chloe Hung.

Under his leadership, Theatre by the Bay produced over 16 shows and significantly expanded its impact across Simcoe County. Iain's artistic vision and administrative leadership helped establish the company as a cornerstone of regional theatre in Ontario, known for its commitment to new play development and community engagement.

Arts Education & Mentorship

Beyond directing, Iain is a dedicated Canadian theatre educator and mentor. Since 2016, he has led the Indie Producer Co-op, providing training and mentorship to emerging producers. Under his leadership, the Co-op expanded into a national program - with participants from Edmonton and Vancouver, as well as London, Toronto, and more. The Barrie Theatre Lab was also founded under his tenure to support the development of new Canadian plays. He also launched both the Emerging Director Project and the Simcoe County Theatre Festival, which have collectively supported dozens of early-career artists and theatre creators.

Current Work

In 2023, Iain joined The Talent House, one of Canada’s top agencies for professionals in film, television, and theatre.

In October 2024, he stepped down from Theatre by the Bay to pursue work as a freelance theatre director, arts consultant, and creative collaborator.

His current focus is on creating visionary, actor-centred productions and continuing to mentor the next generation of Canadian theatre artists.

Barrie Arts Awards | Contribution to the Community - 2024

Community Builder Awards | Arts Category - 2023

Mayor’s Innovation Awards | Creative Collaboration (for The Ghost Watchers) - 2021

Tootsie Awards | One to Watch - 2021

Barrie Business Awards | Not-for-Profit/Charitable Organization of the Year - 2021

Mayor’s Innovation Awards | Most Innovative Not-for-Profit/Charitable Organization of the Year - 2019

George Brown College Alumni Awards | Alumni Leadership Award - 2019

Barrie Business Awards | Young Professional of the Year - 2019

Barrie Advance Readers’ Choice Awards | Best Theatre Instructor - 2017-2023

Tourism Barrie’s ‘Toast to Tourism Awards’ |Tourism Champion - 2019

Barrie Advance Readers’ Choice Awards | Best Live Theatre - 2017-2023