Outside the March: Determining the feasibility and appropriate scale of equipment inventory for acquisition and loan program 

Because OtM specializes in immersive theatre experiences in non-traditional spaces—like church basements, parking lots, and abandoned storefronts—they often perform in venues that lack even basic infrastructure (e.g., lighting, sound systems, seating). This forces the company to:

  1. Spend excessive time and money sourcing, renting, and setting up equipment for each production.

  2. Face logistical challenges of coordinating rentals from multiple suppliers, transporting gear, and ensuring it meets their needs.

  3. Operate under financial strain, as these rental costs add up and put pressure on their already tight budgets.

This problem not only limits OtM’s efficiency and artistic flexibility but also creates a barrier to scaling their innovative productions.

The Problem

High equipment rental fees.

Finding and Defining the Opportunity

To bring this bold idea to life, OtM teamed up with NetGain Partners for a deep-dive feasibility study. NetGain’s job was to answer some big questions:

  • Is this project financially doable?

  • Will other theatre companies actually benefit from borrowing this equipment?

  • How can OtM make this sustainable for the long haul?

Rising to Challenges

Here’s what NetGain uncovered:

  1. Community Demand is Real: Independent theatre companies in Toronto are struggling with venue scarcity and inadequate equipment. Almost all surveyed said they’d use more equipment if it were affordable and accessible.

  2. Financially Feasible: With an estimated starting cost of $1.2 million, OtM can acquire a complete inventory of essential equipment. Better yet, lending the gear to other companies will help cover maintenance and replacement costs over time.

  3. No Compromise on Creativity: The equipment list covers everything needed to create professional-grade productions in unconventional spaces, from seating for audiences to lighting rigs and backstage tools.

Results and Final Takeaways

The feasibility study confirmed that Outside the March (OtM)’s plan to acquire Mobile Production and Performance Modules (MPPMs) is both viable and impactful. By investing approximately $1.2 million in essential equipment, OtM can reduce its reliance on rentals, transform unconventional spaces into professional performance venues, and share this equipment with other independent theatre companies at below-market rates. This initiative addresses venue scarcity, fosters artistic growth, and expands access to underserved audiences, all while remaining financially sustainable through cost-recovery fees. With efficient storage, maintenance, and management, OtM can enhance its creative freedom and uplift Toronto’s broader performing arts community.