The Association of Community Theatres of Manitoba (ACT Manitoba) Inc had its beginnings in the Fall of 1976.  At that time, several active theatre patrons perceived the need for a Community Theatre Festival program. This program was sponsored by the Manitoba Theatre Workshop (now Prairie Theatre Exchange) and supported in its development by the appointment of a Director of the Outreach Program to the Festival Advisory Board.  In 1978-1979, the Community Theatre Festival was realized and the first Festival (now titled ACTFEST) was held.

In 1982, the Board incorporated and changed to its current name to encompass the growing scope of the program from a local, to that of a provincial organization. After a difficult time in 1987 a steering committee was formed and a new executive was elected in February 1988. The new executive acted quickly and in the 1988-89 term initiated new memberships, appointed regional representatives in all regions and coordinated regional workshops. Thus began the renewal of the Association's relationship with community theatre groups.

ACT is now a strong, non-profit organization that represents amateur theatre groups throughout the province, and actively pursues the goals and objectives outlined in the Association's mandate. Since 1991, ACT has been a registered charity with the Province of Manitoba.

In 2019, ACTFEST celebrated it's 40th anniversary.

SUPPORT

Financial support of the Association is derived through membership fees, earned revenue from programs and fund-raising, and ACT gratefully acknowledges the funding provided by the Province of Manitoba - Department of Sport, Culture and Heritage, through the Manitoba Arts Council.