Scientists interested in sustainable energy need to harness whatever it is that fuels Bob Baker. The Citadel Theatre’s longest-serving artistic director is readying for the opening of the much-anticipated musical The Wizard of Oz on April 18, the last of three plays Baker directed himself, part of 2008-09’s ambitious programming of 11 productions, one theatre festival and four première shows. Baker, 56, has spent 10 seasons at the helm of the Citadel, Canada’s largest non-profit professional regional theatre, but that’s nothing – he has been running full throttle in theatre for 35 years, ever since graduating from the U of A’s drama department. This self-confessed workaholic thrives on a schedule that should have burned him out years ago. Like Newton’s first law, Baker’s a body in motion that tends to stay in motion.

He has been a dancer, actor, teacher and director,  and was the artistic director of Edmonton’s edgy Phoenix Theatre from 1982-87, until he set off to direct across Canada, the U.S. and Scotland. In 1990, he undertook the project of saving Toronto’s ailing Canadian Stage Company from a $3-million debt (“like raising the Titanic,” he says,) until he was invited to come back to Edmonton to heat up lukewarm attendance at the Citadel. He’s been raising temperatures ever since.

“I’m from here,” he says. “I live here. I know Edmonton is a sports town that loves theatre. So I like sport in my theatre. I want aggressive, energized productions that grab. So we’re gonna keep giving ’er.” 

What’s your look for the The Wizard of Oz opening? Ruby slippers?

No, probably an ice pack! I always dress for the feel of the room and the production. Rice Theatre is funky; I might match that with my Guys and Dolls suit — double-breasted, pinstriped, very low lapels — and a really fantastic tie that explodes with colour; I picked it up in Toronto’s Kensington Market a long time ago. Or, a casual cotton suit with a Juicy Couture T-shirt; it was a gift from
a previous cast.

And for more upscale occasions?

A proper “grown-up” suit. I’m not a dress-up guy, and only wear a tie to be respectful to the event. A new favourite look is my Prada “James Bond” suit. It’s a beautifully tailored, very fitted jacket, very tapered leg, with pointy Dolce Gabbana shoes and a skinny tie.

Think way back to your first appearance as the new artistic director. Your look?

All black, casual and hip: black suede sports jacket from Harry Rosen, black jeans, black cowboy boots. I love my cowboy boots and still wear them.

Does being a high-profile arts figure influence your dress choices?

I represent my organization and want to project an appropriate image. I’m a leader, taking audiences to new places, and I want to create an image of being forward-thinking, with my eye on trends and new ideas. I don’t follow all the latest fashions, but I stay up to date. I have to plan, looking for versatile choices, since I see a lot of the same people and can’t wear the same thing repeatedly.

Name three indispensable items in your wardrobe?

My jeans! I’m all about comfort when working and I can’t worry about creases. I have an array, dark to faded, for any occasion. Then a well-cut jacket with interesting details, and good shoes. And running shoes, for climbing up and down theatre stairs during rehearsals.

Shopaholic or shopping averse?

You’ll never see me in the mall going from store to store. I only shop when I need something. I’m
slow and very picky. As a director, I have an eye  for what I want; it can take forever to find what’s exactly right.

Favourite shops, when you must shop?

Henry Singer for quality. Winners for something different. Eddy Bauer for comfort. Mountain Co-op for special things like hiking boots. (My Bouvier puppy just ate a pair.)
Describe your sartorial style?

Not really adventurous, but not conventional. I like classics with a twist. I wear a lot of navy and light blues. They’re good for any season and, besides, bright colours don’t look good on me because I’m inside so much that I’m always pale. Last summer was a first though — I bought a red Calvin Klein T-shirt. 

Any tips for looking good?

I need to be confident and look well-dressed for public occasions, so I’ll pay more for quality Boss black jeans, my Armani and Prada suits. Quality lasts, and when you buy those brands, you can count on a wonderful cut.

Is there anything you avoid?

I won’t wear anything with a logo. I love my Abercrombie & Fitch polo shirt, but I wear a jacket over it to cover the initials. I like to look good, not ostentatious. I’d never do a Pierre Trudeau thing with the cape. And although I think I’m 15 years younger than I am, I’m careful not to dress too young.

Any celebrity style you admire?

George Clooney. I couldn’t describe what he usually wears, but he always looks good. It’s not specific clothes; it’s an overall look. It’s like my directing style. I want the presentation to be right, not just “look at me!”