ArtsBridge Fall/Winter 2012

A publication of the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge (AAC)

Fall/Winter

2 012

advancing the arts in Lethbridge

MAYOR’S LUNCHEON

...for business & the arts

THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT PARTNERS PLATINUM

2011 AACE Awards Allied Arts Council Awards of Excellence

GOLD

Individual: Johnathan Lance Scout

Service Organization: Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens

SILVER

Business: TD Canada Trust/TD Financial Group

Joan Waterfield Memorial Award:

BRONZE

Robert Fenton, Lethbridge Musical Theatre

JOAN WATERFIELD MEMORIAL AWARD sponsored by:

Publisher Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge 318 . 7 Street South Lethbridge, AB T1J 2G2 T: 403.320.0555 F: 403.320.2450 info@artslethbridge.org www.artslethbridge.org Publication date September 2012 Administration Suzanne Lint Executive Director Jana MacKenzie Finance Muffy McKay Projects Derek Stevenson Communications Vanessa Eagle Bear Reception Programming Claire Hatton Education & Facility Services Darcy Logan Gallery Services Board of Directors PRESIDENT Gloria Torrance VICE PRESIDENT Tyler Stewart SECRETARY Tyler Gschoid

F a l l / W i n t e r 2 012

TREASURER Shanna Bailey DIRECTORS Ron Brown Sarah Christensen Barb Cunningham Kris Hodgson Tweela Houtekamer Greg Norman Dione Overes Don Reeves Jennifer Schmidt Rempel Kim Siever Elizabeth Songer

director’s

message

Southern Alberta has a vibrant and thriving arts community which has developed over a long period of time. With all the exciting changes that have occurred in Lethbridge recently, including the expansion of the SAAG and the highly anticipated Community Arts Centre, it is interesting to look back at the history of arts and arts facilities in our community.

Lethbridge and the surrounding area have had the opportunity to share their work with the community with remarkable, historical venues such as the Bowman Arts Centre, the Trianon Gallery and the Empress Theatre.

Many people in Southern Alberta do not recognize the rich and unique history we have of producing incredible visual and performing arts. We wanted to give everyone a glimpse of the past so we can see how far our community has come, and where our community needs to grow.

What is it about a building that makes it more than just brick and concrete? Is it the history? Is it engrained in the walls? Or is it something more? We sat down with John Savill, owner of the Trianon Gallery, and asked him a little bit about the building downtown, as it has transitioned from a department store to a ballroom to a gallery (page 8).

2012 has been a big year for Southern Alberta, it has seen the centennial of many of our historic buildings. It is fascinating that two of our landmark arts facilities, the Bowman Arts Centre and the Empress Theatre, both turned 100 years old this year.

Belinda Crowson looks into the history of the Bowman, how it started as a school and its eventual use as an arts facility (page 11).

Bonnie Kennedy and Mary Oordt discuss the history of the Empress Theatre in Fort Macleod as it turned the century mark this past summer (page 13).

As we look forward to the opening of the Community Arts Centre next May, we also recognize the need for a performing arts centre as a part of the downtown cultural corridor. When looking into the history of performing arts facilities in our community, we discovered the original plans for the Yates Centre in the 1960s were to develop more than just a theatre; they were to develop an entire cultural centre. Read more on what happened to this cultural facility on page 6!

With a forward looking vision on a Cultural Corridor in our downtown core, we need to recognize the importance of our past. The history of how the arts developed in our community is something worth holding onto, and will forever define us as an active and vibrant arts community.

Suzanne Lint Executive Director

For additional copies contact the AAC office.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

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What’s an Old Building Done for You Lately?

Elizabeth Songer, SONGER architecture inc Why should we keep old buildings around? I mean, really, they’re a lot of work, they creak, and they don’t match their new neighbors. We tend to ignore their contribution to the community

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until it’s too late. But so what? If we knock them down, we’ll put up something easier to maintain.

So what significance do older structures really play in our lives?

Part of knowing who you are has a lot to do with knowing where you’ve been. It takes a while to appreciate what history has to offer, but I like to think it’s easier to know where you are going when you feel firmly associated with your past. To older folks yesterday is cherished, but to the younger generation it’s all about “now.” The young aren’t into the past simply because they have no past. They have no means of relating to it. With age comes experience, which grants you fellowship in your community built on past events and familiar references. It helps you feel connected and more secure as you move ahead in life.

board blog

a substantial inventory of work that, for a variety of reasons, will likely remain so for some time. Let’s just refer to it as Van Gogh Syndrome, though few if any will ever gain that artist’s posthumous fame.

It can be said without reservation that most visual artists (at least the ones I know) certainly don’t make art for financial gain. Thus, it could be said that the issue of whether a community supports its artists or not is moot. That would be approaching the whole matter from a completely wrong perspective.

Let’s, instead, view it from the community point of view. In some ambiguous way there is a symbiotic relationship that exists between visual artists (and probably other

There is a reason for the popularity of ancestry.com, even among people in their 20s; it’s all about creating links. Say you stumble on an interesting Dutch ancestor. The next time you visit Holland, you do so with a bond you never felt before. It’s human nature to feel substantiated by our history, and part of that history comes from our surroundings. Just as with human connections, the more we know about our community buildings, the more sensitive and engaged we are with them. To a young man, the Carnegie Library may be just an old building incorporated into a modern art gallery. But once he finds out that as a boy his dad fell in love with World War II Spitfires and B-52s in the Carnegie’s stacks, he enters the historic portion of the Southern Alberta Art Gallery with a new sense of wonder.

Preserving a city’s structures is like passing on a family heirloom. They are the community’s heirlooms. But are they all gems? No one wants to keep the smelly old ball cap that Grandpa wore to change the oil, but what about Aunt Matilda’s mysterious wedding ring when there’s no record of her ever getting married. Or the sketches Uncle Jack drew after each harvest telling the story of the farm’s growth. Those are keepers, aren’t they? The big question is whether to toss them, dump them in the basement to rot, put them in archival boxes, or display them.

Communities have the same dilemma with their buildings, and like individuals, don’t always make the right choices. They often keep but ignore less important structures, and raze those that are of significance. Just like the family heirlooms, not all structures are worth keeping.

Characteristics to consider are quality design, solid construction, a unique building technique, or the site of a momentous local event. Now that Alberta has passed the 100 year mark, and some rare birds like the Empress Theatre are celebrating their centennials, we need to be better stewards of our built heritage.

People often sigh when a new structure goes up right next to an historic one, but unless you are trying to memorialize a specific time, like Fort Whoop-Up or Picture Butte’s Coyote Flats Pioneer Village, it’s a healthy thing. Cities and towns are alive; not frozen in time. Layers of history tell a story, and we would be wise to show respect for both the old and the new. Older structures add variety; they expose us to techniques and palettes not achievable today. We can learn a lot from the old buildings just as they learn to adapt to today’s requirements. As we deepen our appreciation for them, we find that they enable us to build a connection to our society. When we walk by the mix of eras and styles of our town’s history, we are reminded of the strength of

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the community that we call home. AB

P o s m in h n ed th o w te a h L h th th

Pis a sneak peak at some of the stages in our history. Performing Arts has been a staple in Lethbridge’s history, and as a com munity we have had a number of facilierform ng Arts has been a staple in Lethbridge’s history, and as a community we have had a number of facilities built to house the talentd musicians, actors, and dancers that come hrough our city. From 1896 when the first opera house was built to 1966 when the Yates was built we have been a community commited to supporting the performing arts, here a sneak peak at some of the stages in our history. Performing Arts has been a staple Lethbridge’s history, and as a community w have had a number of facilities built to hous he talented musicians, actors, and dancers hat come through our city. From 1896 when V I S U A L E S S AY

a story, and as hi ’s ge d ri hb et ple in L ted have been a sta s rt A g in rm house the talen to Perfo t il bu es ti li ci r of fa ve had a numbe ha we y it un m rough our city. com th e m co at th rs, and dancers en the Yates musicians, acto wh 66 19 to t il bu e was first opera hous e th en wh 91 18 supporting the From to d te it m m co unity ve been a comm ha we t in our history. il bu s ge s ta wa s e th of some sneak peak at a is e er H . performing arts

around heatre was built T s ri or M he T heum changed to Orp 1911. The name Theatre then to Palace Theatre in 1917, in Capitol Theatre e th to lly na fi and 3 to make molished in 197 de s wa t I 8.

192 . The ethbridge Centre way for the L ted at ilding was loca bu re at he T s Morri South.

414 5th Avenue

Photograph

showing the Roxy Thea tre on 328 5th Street So uth.

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Pis a sneak peak at some of the stages in staple in Lethbridge’s history, and as a com orming Arts has been a staple in Lethbrid had a number of facilities built to house the come through our city. From 1896 when the fi Yates was built we have been a community co here is a sneak peak at some of the stages a staple in Lethbridge’s history, and as a c ies built to house the talented musicians, ac From 1896 when the first opera house was b een a community committed to supporting t some of the stages in our history.Performin history, and as a community we have had a d musicians, actors, and dancers that come opera house was built to 1966 when the Yates ed to supporting the performing arts, here our history.Performing Arts has been a stap the Photograph of Majestic exterior of the 5 Avenue Theatre at 512 hbridge.

South in Let

Photograph of the interior of the Majestic Theat re, looking from the back of the thea tre towards the st age.

The building wa s built in 1908 as the Griffiths Theat re. It became the Majestic in 1910 and Palm Dairy in 1938. It remaine d Palm Dairy un til 1978 when it was de stroyed by a fi re.

Built in 1891 as an opera and entertainment house, this theatre was located where the new Community Arts Centre is currently being built. It was taken over by the Alberta Railway and Irrigation Company circa 1899. From 1946-1966 it was headquarters of the St. Mary and Milk Rivers Development Administration. It was purchased by the city in 1966 and demolished.

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our history. Performing Arts has been a mmunity we have had a number of facilierdge’s history, and as a community we have e talented musicians, actors, and dancers th first opera house was built to 1966 when the ommitted to supporting the performing arts s in our history. Performing Arts has been community we have had a number of facilictors, and dancers that come through our c built to 1966 when the Yates was built we have the performing arts, here is a sneak peak a ng Arts has been a staple in Lethbridge’s number of facilities built to house the talen e through our city. From 1896 when the firs was built we have been a community commi is a sneak peak at some of the stages in ple in Lethbridge’s history, and as a comm Photograph of the front of the Capitol Theatre.

The theatre was located on 5th street between 4th and 5th Avenues South.

It was demolished in 1973 to make way for the Lethbridge Centre.

of Photograph itol of the Cap to looking up e th and onto

the inside Theatre the ceiling stage.

The completion of the Genevieve E. Yates Mem orial Centre at 1002 4 Avenue South in 1966..

*All photos and decriptions obtained from the Galt Museum & Archives

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a journey for Arts facilities

Cultural Centre to Cultural Corridor

by Derek Stevenson After researching some of the old theatres and arts facilities in our community, I stumbled upon a picture of a model created in 1961 by Lurie and Neufeld Architects for a cultural centre in downtown Lethbridge.

I was fascinated by this plan, originally because of the similarities in shape and design that the building had when compared to the new community arts centre, but secondly because I recognized that the idea for a cultural hub in our community has been in the works since the early 1960s.

The building that was eventually built in place of this proposed cultural centre was the Yates Memorial Centre. The City of Lethbridge, a steering committee, and interested parties at the time, such as the Allied Arts Council, The Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Association and Lethbridge Playgoers, all recognized the need to build a city-owned facility to accommodate Lethbridge’s vibrant culture.

Part of the initial planning for this building came about when the will of Dean Roscoe Yates left a large sum of money to the City of Lethbridge, to build an arts facility /cultural centre in the name of his late wife, Genevieve. There was also a push by the community to expand the arts facilities, build an art gallery, a museum, and a large theatre for community and touring groups to use.

The building of this facility was up for debate back in the ‘60s, especially the location of it and what particular facilities would get to be a part of it. At one point, the city discussed connecting this new cultural centre with the Civic Centre in order to have an entire building dedicated to both culture and recreation.

At another point, it was proposed that the City of Lethbridge purchase the old Capitol Theatre (page 5) and renovate it to accommodate the performing arts organizations. The Allied Arts Council at the time suggested building the facility in Galt Gardens and connecting it with the old Carnegie library, which is now currently the SAAG.

The idea for a cultural hub in our community has been in the works since the early 1960s.

The building, as it was proposed, was to have a theatre for 800-1200 people, a studio for the sketch club, a large green room for Lethbridge Playgoers, a meeting room for the camera club, an exhibition space, a museum, a library, and an art gallery. Eventually, many of these proposed facilities were changed, partly because the Galt hospital was purchased as a space for the museum, and partially because the funding that was originally going to go towards this building was given to the Henderson Lake Pool Project. At that time, the entire estimated cost of creating the proposed facility was $660,000.00.

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It is very possible that the original plans for a centralized cultural centre, or the current vision for the Lethbridge Cultural Corridor will become a reality for our community.

The City of Lethbridge eventually decided that the building should be built to accommodate the performing arts. The location selected was next to the

know?

Did you

1952 Courthouse on 4th Avenue South where a sports field was previously located. The Yates building was completed in 1966, with the addition of the Sterndale Bennett Theatre in the 1990s.

One of the most fascinating things about this proposed project from the sixties is the fact that the Lethbridge Arts Community has been asking for a centralized cultural centre in our downtown for over 50 years. With the completion of the Community Arts Centre in the spring of 2013, and the proposed performing arts centre, it is very possible that the original plans for a centralized cultural centre, or the current vision for the Lethbridge Cultural Corridor, will become a reality for our community.

The Carnegie Library was built in 1922 in Galt Gardens at 6th street. The library

was first established in 1918 and received funding in the early 1920s from the

Carnegie foundation to create an adequate sized building to house the library. The

Public Library became the focus of local culture, and served as a library for over fifty

years. The building now continues to operate as a cultural centre for our community, as it is home to the Southern Alberta Art Gallery.

Lethbridge’s New Community Arts Centre:

An Information Session on Booking & Programing opportunites for future users:

October 11, 2012 7pm Bowman Arts Centre A Place to

Learn, Live and L ve the arts ARTSBRIDGE

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Engrained in the Walls:

from Ballroom to Gallery

by Derek Stevenson, AAC Communications Coordinator

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with John Savill, of Savill Group Architecture LTD, to discuss the history of the Trianon Building.

Can you tell us a little bit about the history behind the Trianon name?

At Versailles, the Trianon ballroom was a main social venue in France. There were Trianon ballrooms all over the world, including the one in Lethbridge; so naturally when naming the space, we decided to go with the Trianon. Marie Antoinette built the Petit Trianon as a summer retreat, and that is what the downstairs gallery is named after.

How long has this building been around?

The building turned 100 years old in 2007. Originally it was the Hudson’s Bay building. During the Great Depression, the Bay was forced to leave Lethbridge and the building was sold to John Jardine ( Lethbridge’s 16th Mayor :1947-1949) and his partners. They opened the Trianon Ballroom on the second floor, which lasted until the ‘60s.

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What was it about this space that was appealing to you?

In 1989 I was looking for an office space downtown with some

and architecture it’s not always about money but more about in-

other architects. The old dance hall space was above the Chinook

tent and the sincerity of effort.

Trading Centre and had been abandoned for about five years ever seen and I rented it on the spot. Although in rough shape, the

What was your motivation to create the gallery space in the Trianon?

proportions and natural light couldn’t have been better.

We had much more space than we needed and I thought it would

when I first saw it. It was one of the most beautiful rooms I had

be a complementary use of the space. In the early days people like

Can you tell us a little bit about the opening, when you first moved into the building?

Carl Granzow and Billy McCarroll were very influential in bringing

We didn’t know anything about the building’s history when we

from the art community for sustaining it. The artists that show

started. But once we fixed the building up, we decided to have a

here have to do a lot more than in other places, and have to fend

dance to celebrate our opening. We re-created an imaginary night

for themselves in the space when we are too busy to help out.

in exhibits and guiding the direction. From there, the gallery has almost had a life of its own. I have gotten tremendous support

from the past, and made it a fundraiser for the Southern Alberta Art Gallery. In the process of re-creating the dance, we discovered

What makes this space so special?

that many people had great memories of the old dance hall. There

It’s a great room with a great history, and I think people always

was a big turnout, including lots of seniors and people dressed in

feel welcome and comfortable in the space. One fellow was watch-

period costume.

ing us work when we were fixing it up. His parting comment was “ best damm dance hall there ever was.” Since then I have always

Can you talk a little bit about the band that you brought in for this fundraiser?

felt like the caretaker of a public space. I don’t think any art collec-

Pat Horrocks was working with me when she discovered this band

work in a creative, constantly changing environment, we also meet

called the Alberta Ranch Boys, who first played at the Trianon Ball-

a great number of talented people and are able to take pleasure in

room in 1942. They were the house band for 15 years at the Ball-

knowing them and following their careers. AB

tion could match the joy of having a gallery. Not only do we get to

room and had been broadcasted nationally. When the band members were introduced at the first dance they acknowledged both living and dead members of the band.

Tell us a little bit about your gallery practice?

My initial idea was to work in the open space, but eventually we separated our workspace from the art gallery. I have always found that we exist in a middle ground between a studio and a museum.

Lethbridge has been in the process of developing into a fine arts city and we have been fortunate to share in the development. We have exhibited artists at all levels of their careers from students to internationally recognized artists. It’s exciting to see some artists who first exhibited when they were students, are now teaching and exhibiting both locally, nationally and internationally.

How does the Trianon differentiate itself from the other galleries in the community?

Partially because the main business here is the architectural business, I haven’t been competing with the other galleries for funding or sponsorship. We generally try to be supportive of the local art community and have done things jointly with the SAAG, the University, Trap/Door and the Potemkin collective.The gallery has also helped to inform our architectural practice, constantly reminding us of the value of experimentation and ongoing learning. With art ARTSBRIDGE

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100 The Bowman Arts Centre:

A CENTURY OF SHAPING

by Belinda Crowson

Like people, buildings mature and change. The Bowman, turning 100 this year, has certainly served the people of Lethbridge and southern Alberta in a varied and impressive manner.

Architects H.M. and W.A. Whiddington used a combination of architectural styles, primarily Collegiate Gothic, popular for educational facilities in the late 19th and early 20th century. The Bowman’s construction highlighted the development of Lethbridge as a modern city, ready to take its place in

Some people shared a few thoughts on the building:

“The scent of the Bowman is something I will never forget. Old wood.

And the creak of the stairs, up or down, remain a constant sound in my memory.” Candace L.

a growing nation. On 21 August 1912 the Alberta Minister of Education, the Honorable John R. Boyle, laid the cornerstone for the building. A greater honour was to come when on 10 October 1912 the Duke of Connaught, Governor General of Canada, officially opened the building.

“I must say the energy in the centre is magic! I met some of the most wonderful people on earth.” Linda Mae S.

The building served as a Manual Training School, the first such school in Alberta. As a manual training school, it was essentially a vocational school where boys learned metalwork, woodwork and machine shop while girls were taught household sciences/home economics. Adult classes were offered in the evening. The building also accommodated the school board offices and board room.

“I feel the positive energies of all the lovely, gifted artists who have shared their blessings with others throughout the years.” Christine S.A.

However, the Bowman would serve in this capacity for only a few short years (1912-1915). The financial and staffing realities of the First World War resulted in the closure of the manual training school.

In 1915 the building matured into its second job as the Lethbridge High School. One famous alumni who attended school in the Bowman was Forrest Mars of Mars Bar, M&M and Uncle Ben’s Rice fame.

“Some buildings make a statement and are invaluable to the landscape of our city....I am willing to lay down in front of the bulldozer for the Bowman.”

Jean J.

When Forrest Mars’ parents divorced, he was raised by his maternal grandparents. In January 1920, Forrest moved with them to Lethbridge and started school. Forrest had Flora Rothney as his 10th grade teacher and S.R. Tompkins as his teacher in grade 11. No record of his grade 12 year has been found, though the Mars Company history book reports that he graduated from Lethbridge in 1922.

In 1928, with the completion of LCI (now the Lethbridge Public School Board Office and Victoria Park High School), the Bowman went through another change from high school to Bowman Elementary School. It was at this time the building acquired the Bowman name. C.B Bowman, its namesake, was an early Lethbridge businessman who served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Board of Trustees of Lethbridge School District 51 from 1905 to 1912. C.B. Bowman also served as a Lethbridge alderman and acting mayor. Charles Bowman’s wife, Florence, was one of the first nurses at the Galt Hospital; their

Joan Waterfield and Mary Gazettas at the Bowman in 1970.

son, Paddy Bowman, earned an Order of the British Empire for service in the Second World War. ARTSBRIDGE

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C.B. Bowman Now, at 100 years of age, the Bowman faces another change. In the next year, a new building will take on the role of Community Arts Centre. What does this change mean for the Bowman?

Staff and students at the manual training school in 1915.

The Bowman is much more than just a sum of its history. Its importance

In 1963, after Bowman Elementary closed, the building was purchased by the City of Lethbridge. The first

and role were recognized when it

plan was to use the building as a museum and the Civic Museum was organized. The exhibits were open

was declared a Provincial Historic

to view in February 1964. However, the museum soon moved out, relocating into the Galt Hospital. The

Resource in March 1982. It has be-

Bowman was once again looking for a purpose.

come a favourite for many people.

The Bowman provides a tangible

By a stroke of good fortune, in the 1960s, the Allied Arts Council was looking for a home. Several build-

link to our past, providing us with

ings around Lethbridge were considered and rejected – the former nurses’ residence at the Galt Hospital,

a sense of time and place, and is an

the old Lealta Theatre and others. When the museum moved out of the Bowman, the Allied Arts Council

irreplaceable part of our collective

saw an opportunity to develop the building as an arts centre. The Council and City of Lethbridge worked

history and community identity.

out an operating agreement and the Bowman Art Gallery was officially opened on 9 January 1965. First

The Bowman has also been flex-

tenants were listed as the Joliffe Academy of Dancing, the Lethbridge Sketch Club, Oldman River Potters’

ible, taking on new identities and

Guild, Lethbridge Camera Club, Lethbridge Handicraft Guild and Playgoers of Lethbridge.

purposes as Lethbridge has grown and changed. Who knows what the

Since its conversion into the Bowman Arts Centre, the building has been one of Lethbridge’s most promi-

next century holds for the graceful,

nent and beloved venues, a showcase for arts and other cultural activities. The building provided homes

proud building as it continues to

to dozens of visual and performing arts groups with studio and exhibit space.

serve the community. AB

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EMPRESSIVE

EMPRESS

by Bonnie Kennedy & Mary Oordt - Members of the 2012 Empress Centennial Committee

FROM ITS BEGINNINGS IN 1912, THE EMPRESS THEATRE ON FORT MACLEODʼS MAIN STREET COMMITTED TO PRESENTING BOTH LIVE PERFORMANCE AND FILM – AN AIM IT REMAINS FAITHFUL TO A CENTURY LATER.

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THE ONLY ORIGINAL VAUDEVILLE THEATRE STILL IN OPERATION IN ALBERTA, THE EMPRESS HAS SINCE THOSE EARLY DAYS HOSTED THE SILENT FILM ERA WITH ITS LIVE HOUSE ORCHESTRAS, TALKIES, GREAT FILMS THROUGHOUT THE YEARS, LIVE TOURING AND LOCAL SHOWS, DANCE AND MUSIC RECITALS, POLITICAL DEBATES, AND MORE.

In recent years under Town of Fort Macleod ownership and support, the Empress’s board of directors and executive directors have broadened the theatre’s vision offering a growing menu of cultural opportunities. In 2005, directors of the day looked beyond stage presentations to consider how the Erin Henderson-Bourke and Robert Allan Hughes in a scene from The Stage That Made Us by playwright Ron Chambers.

visual arts might also be celebrated within the theatre. The Alberta Centennial Legacy Program allowed the Empress to commission prominent illustrator/fine artist, art instructor and born-and-

Before a structure dedicated to cultural endeavours ever appeared, artistic ac-

raised southern Albertan Neil Boyle to produce

tivities were part of life in the area. First Nations people set the example – sing-

artwork for the theatre. Boyle’s six grand paintings,

ing, drumming and dancing in their encampments near the banks of Oldman

depicting subjects encompassing stars from film

River. By 1874, the Mounties arrived adding their mix of song, dance, satires

history to local figures from the community’s past,

and sendups, staged in barracks and mess halls as soon as the walls went up.

now grace the walls of the Empress auditorium.

Appearing shortly after, settlers constructed town and church halls where other views of life found expression through song, performances and silent films.

The following year, the Fort Macleod International Music Festival, with the assistance of

In the early 1900s, lawyer Thomas B. Martin bought the lot at the heart of Main Street.

a grant from the Alberta Rural Development

The lot had obvious potential, located as it was on the sunny side of the street. Still,

Fund, found a home at the Empress, drawing

the entrepreneur delayed a few years before making his move, perhaps pausing to

chamber music patrons from southern Alberta

weigh the risks involved in choosing either an artistic or more strictly commercial

to hear performances by classical musicians

venture. Married and with children, Martin ultimately must have understood that a

from across Canada, USA, England, Israel, and

civil healthy society finds a way to have both. Then, as now, families wanted to stay

Hungary.

in communities rich with opportunities for personal development through music,

Empress, world-renowned violist and festival

dance, drama and visual arts. Late in 1911, Martin had made up his mind, engaging

co-founder Rivka Golani commissioned three

Medicine Hat architect William T. Williams to, as a newspaper of the time stated, draw

pieces of music inspired by southern Alberta

plans for “a fine new opera house.” A few months later, former Mountie James S.

landscape and history. The first of these, Bear

Lambert was awarded the contract to construct the building and, come summertime

Child, was commissioned to Canadian compos-

1912, the doors opened and the show was on!

er Alan Bell and writer Fred Stenson. In 2010,

During the festival’s term at the

British composer Benjamin Ellin composed The only original vaudeville theatre still in operation in Alberta, the Empress

Siksika and, in 2011, Nahdoosi. All three works

has since those early days hosted the silent film era with its live house orches-

premiered at the festival and both Bear Child

tras, talkies, great films throughout the years, live touring and local shows,

and Siksika have since been performed in Lon-

dance and music recitals, political debates, and more. It has, as author Peter

don, England.

Scott states in Reign of the Empress – 1912-2012: A History of the Empress Theatre in Fort Macleod, Alberta, offered “a rich Empress playbill through its first 100 years.” And, despite “...economic trials and political skirmishes” as well as periods of restoration and renovation the Empress has, throughout its existence, remained accessible to a faithful audience in southern Alberta.

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Always there is a need to maintain older buildings and the Empress Centennial Fund has met one half of its goal of $500,000. The money will repair the roof, the heating and air conditioning, reupholster the ruby red seats and install digital equipment to keep the Theatre up with the times.

In what they hoped was a particularly meaningful way to recognize the Empress Theatre on its 100th birthday, the present board of directors commissioned three artistic enterprises which were launched on the Gala Celebration on June 29, 2012. John Wort Hannam composed and performed a song about the Empress that had everyone singing; Peter Scott read from and launched his history book; and Ron Chamber’s

the theatre “... has added a new role to its repertoire, providing educational opportunities to learn about theatrical endeavours and music of all genres.” In summer drama camps, the Empress offers children and teens occasions to become part of a team

play, “The Stage That Made Us,” was premiered to rave reviews. People came from near and far to honour the theatre, to recall memories and to wish her well in the years to come. That night at the Empress it was clear arts and culture are as critical for a small prairie town as they are for bigger centres; they satisfy an infinite human need to make sense of our existence. Put more simply, they bring a town to life and life to a town. Long live the Empress! AB

Peter Scott reads from his book “Reign of the Empress 1912 - 2012.”

As author Peter Scott notes in Reign of the Empress,

working together to create a unique performance, under the guidance of skilled instructors. Similarly Project Muse, an Empress program sponsoring school visitations by young, accomplished classical musicians offers alternative routes for schools to access classical music education in Southern Alberta. This year Project Muse took the program to 14 schools in the area. At the close of the two week project, the Empress presented “Music Unwrapped,” a family-oriented concert designed to introduce parents, children and others to the rich heritage of classical music. Throughout the year, many opportunities are given to students to understand and enjoy a variety of musical genres in the outreach programmes.

John Wort Hannam performs “They Brought the House Down .”

THAT NIGHT AT THE EMPRESS IT WAS CLEAR ARTS AND CULTURE ARE AS CRITICAL FOR A SMALL PRAIRIE TOWN AS THEY ARE FOR BIGGER CENTRES;

EMPRESS THEY SATISFY AN INFINITE HUMAN NEED TO MAKE SENSE OF OUR EXISTENCE.

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15

In Memoriam:

Ralph Thrall Jr.

Nov 13 1932 - Oct 28 2011

by Jeffery Spalding Ralph Thrall Jr. was a mountain of a man, larger than life: patriarch of the legendary McIntyre Ranch, inheritor of the role of protector of its natural splendours and respected supporter of the arts. Handsome, dignified, erudite, when he spoke with you his eyes locked you in; you were the only one who mattered, the sole focus of his attention. You were swept away into his world to investigate wide-ranging interspersed topics: politics, ecology the arts. Earnest and thought-filled he was a prairie philosopher par excellence. Then amidst earnest discussion something would strike him amusing and he erupted with the most uproarious laughter: leaves rustled, the grasses waved. He had his finger on the pulse of nature, he and his family have been its noble champions, she responded in kind.

Ralph was a passionate arts supporter. His Mother, Minnie Hazelton Thrall was an accomplished soprano and art patriot. In early life, Ralph Jr. was a member of the Effie Reid Boys Choir and Kiwanis Music Festival participant. He was a long standing member of the bass section of the first Baptist church choir, performed with a men’s barber shop group, helped direct church singing groups and was an avid enthusiast of the Lethbridge Community Gold Band.

Grounded in the immense love for living connected to nature at its most elemental, he never lost sight of the trail ahead, yet he also contemplated the stars.

Some will particularly want to recall and expound about his gracious benevolence, symphony fund raising concerts and the like. I was the beneficiary of his kindness as he and family twice welcomed to their home at the McIntyre Ranch a dozen or so artists and their entourage from across Canada. Ralph was the principal ‘guide’ leading us through the history of the place, and schooled us on the family tradition of respect for the natural prairie grasses. As consequence, he enabled the creation of numbers of outstanding memorable artworks that are sure to endure as significant contributions to western Canadian art. This is accomplishment enough indeed.

However, it is not through benevolence alone that we should celebrate and remark about the impact of Ralph Thrall Jr. He was an exemplary, admirable role model. By day, he took care of business, tended cattle on horseback, helped feed us all. By night, this rancher, cowpoke, gathered his family around the piano for a singsong. Not hurtin’ western campfire laments, he encouraged his daughter to perform contemporary approaches to classical music. This was no cartoon cowboy. Neither was he an effete artstype. Ralph embodied the best of both. Grounded in the immense love for living connected to nature at its most elemental, he never lost sight of the trail ahead, yet he also contemplated the stars.

Southern Alberta is undergoing immense transformation. How will it work out? Are our only options the polarities of Mississauga box-store planned living or else the rural rough and tumble of Lubbock, Texas? Ralph’s example insists that Alberta is a cultured, civil place. While he championed the virtues of an agrarian, rural life working the ranch, his heart had room for the values of the aspirations of culture on the highest plain. He was an inspiration.

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ARTSBRIDGE

In Memoriam:

Carolla Christie Sept 28 1946 - Aug 11 2012

By Sheila Christie Carolla Lee Postlethwaite was born on September 28,

Carolla was an amazing woman: she was kind, generous,

1946 to Robert (Posty) and Betty in Los Angeles. While

creative, intelligent and gentle. She was also stubborn

she was born in LA, she spent most of her childhood

and determined, overcoming any obstacles between

in Littleton, Colorado, just outside of Denver. Despite

her and her desires. She was a mother to so many,

the asthma that frequently kept her at home, Carolla

and she lead by example, never letting conventions or

was an eager student, fired by the curiosity and love

other people’s expectations limit her. She used to joke

of discovery that would characterize her life. As a child

that she got a science degree as opposed to one in

she developed a love of both literature and science.

arts by virtue of one course; but she was nonetheless

In 1964, her high school English teacher wrote of

remarkable for being a woman in the sciences, a

Carolla’s “unusual imagination” and attributed her

woman with a passion for technology. She loved art,

“dedication to accuracy” in her writing to “her interest

history, science, and nature, but most of all, she loved

and background in science.”

and nurtured people, her family, her colleagues, and her friends. She will be missed, but she will live on in

Carolla came to Canada with her parents after high

every person that she touched.

school and began her studies at the University of Alberta. She met her husband and took great delight in her two children. After the birth of her second child, Carolla began a career that combined her love of writing and technology, becoming first the Executive Editor and then the Head of the Computing Science Department for Athabasca University. In 1980 she began Christie Communications with her husband.

The company stands as a legacy to their hard work and their commitment to making the world a better place. In the meantime, Carolla continued to live life fully. She learned to fly an airplane, partnered in the ownership of a racehorse, polished gemstones, wrote a guide to edible plants, gardened, conducted a choir, and served in her church.

In 2005, Carolla fell gravely ill and only gradually, but never completely recovered. Determined to regain her dexterity, Carolla took up carving. She quickly became proficient, and many people now treasure the soapstone and wood carvings she made for them.

She quickly integrated herself into the local arts

She was a mother to so many, and she lead by example, never letting conventions or other people’s expectations limit her.

community, serving on the board of the Allied Arts Council and volunteering at the Galt Museum. She was a feature at museum events, both as participant and photographer, and her carving demonstrations for children were extremely popular.

ARTSBRIDGE

17

Lethbridge 2012

arts DAys

Discover

experience

celebrate

thank you Primary Event Partners

gold partners

Val and Flora Matteotti

silver partners

Ex p e ri en ce

Denis & Penny Beaudin

bronze partners D.A.Building Streatside Eatery

ww w.d o wn t o wn l et h br i d ge. c om w ww. fi n d i td o wn t o wn . ca ww w. ou r d o wn t own . b l og sp o t .c om

media partners 94.1 CJOC Country 95 CKUA CKXU Lethbridge Herald

artists A special thank-you goes out to Lethbridge’s creative community.

Your dedication, talent and hard work truly enhance our city!

18

ARTSBRIDGE

event supporters Aaron Hagan Bowman Arts Centre Galt Museum & Archives The Gate The Geomatic Attic L.A. Gallery Lethbridge Public Library Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra NAAG New West Theatre Southern Alberta Art Gallery University of Lethbridge Art Gallery Wall Décor & More

venues Thank you to the over 50 host venues; we appreciate you opening your doors for the arts!

volunteers Thank you to our dedicated volunteers.

Your contributions are truly appreciated and we couldn’t do it without you!

arts

support the

Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge (AAC) Advancing and enhancing the arts in Lethbridge since 1958 • Promoting the arts to the community

become an AAC

• Working to improve arts facilities in Lethbridge • Providing collaborative opportunities for artists • Advocating for the arts Core funding support is gratefully received from:

Organizations, individuals and businesses can demonstrate support for the arts in Lethbridge with an AAC membership!

For a full listing of member benefits, visit www.artslethbridge.org/join-us NEW MEMBER

Family and Friend Members:

Burning Ground Artist Studios CIneMAGINE Society of Alberta Les Femtastiques De Lethbridge U of L Student Art Society

Airau Film Photo & Design Blueprint Entertainment Fair Trade Society of Lethbridge Ten Thousand Villages George Music Services Lethbridge Living

Douglas J. Bergen David Cocks Lori Harasem & Duane Petluk Dione Overes Shig & Katie Nakagawa Greg Norman Joy Lawson Julie Klok Kris Hodgson Margaret Thole Velisha Paskusri Wendy Takeda

Artist Members:

Business/Corporate Friends:

Christopher Grignard Danielle Smerek Elizabeth M Ginn Ivan Bering Jane Senda Kari Lehr Karla Mather-Cocks Leslie Ohene-Adjei Michelle Cote Tyler Stewart Warren Gschaid William LeFeuvre

The Shoe Tree Lethbridge Centre

Associate Members:

RENEWAL

Allied Artist Associate Individual Friend Family Friend Business/Corporate Friend

January 15/12 - August15/12 Allied Members:

member

$75 $25 $75 $15 $25 $75

Name Organization/Business Address City Postal Code

Province Telephone

Email Website

I am interested in volunteering for the AAC

Follow us! facebook.com/AlliedArtsCouncil twitter.com/AACLeth

Release: I, , authorize the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge to include my name in publications.

Signature: In accordance with the Government of Alberta’s Freedom of Information and Protection Privacy Act (FOIP)

Make a Donation $25 $50 $100 Other A charitable tax receipt will be issued upon donation

Method of payment Cash Cheque

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Card #

Mastercard Exp

Signature Name on card

318 - 7 Street South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 2G2

Fax 403.320.2450

ARTSBRIDGE

19

of events calendar of october

October

Allied Arts Council Lethbridge Arts Days 2012 September 23 – 30 Downtown Lethbridge Empress Theatre John Wort Hannam October 5 & 6, 8pm Galt Museum & Archives Uncovering Secrets Archaeology in Southern Alberta October 6 – Jan 13 The Rocky Horror Picture Show (film) October 27, 9pm The Geomatic Attic Joel Plaskett September 27, 8pm Roger Marin with Gordie Tentrees –Double Bill October 14, 8pm Fred Eaglesmith October 15 & 16, 8pm The Deep Dark Woods October 26, 8pm Hatrix Theatre Evil Dead The Musical October 30 – November 3 Moose Hall Karen Romanchuk Live Music at Mocha Cabana October 20, 6pm Lethbridge Folk Club Bix Mix Boys October 13, 8pm Lethbridge Public Library Foreign Film Festival October 10, 11, 12 Culture Crates until Oct 31 Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Chamber Series I September 28, 8pm Southminster United Church Master Series I October 15, 8pm Southminster United Church New West Theatre Billy Bishop Goes To War September 27 – October 6, 8pm Sterndale Bennett Theatre Oldman River Potters Guild Trudy Golley Workshop – Surface Decoration October 13 & 14, 10am-4pm Bowman Arts Centre

Playgoers of Lethbridge London Suite by Neil Simon October 17 – 20 Sandman Inn

Southern Alberta Art Gallery Nowhere Bodily is Everywhere Ghostly Jason de Haan September 29 – November 25 One For Yourself Kristan Horton September 29 – November 25 University of Lethbridge Art Gallery Rural Readymade Until October 25 Caring for the Collection October 26 – December 24 Reception Oct 26, 4pm University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts TheatreXtra: Long Form Improvisational September 27 – 29, 8pm September 29, 2pm & 8pm David Spinks Theatre Music at Noon October 2,9,16,23,30, 12:15pm University Recital Hall Let the Right One In (New Media Series) October 3, 6:30pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Celebrate 45 October 12, 8pm University Recital Hall Richard O’Briens The Rocky Horror Show October 16-20, 8pm

ARTSBRIDGE

Lethbridge Folk Club The Hackamores December 8, 8pm

Lethbridge Folk Club Wendell and Wheat November 10, 8pm

Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Kids Choir II December 5, 7pm Southminster United Church

Lethbridge Musical Theatre Hairspray November 9 – 24, 8pm Matinee November 11 Yates Memorial Centre Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Chamber Series II November 16 Southminster United Church Master Series II November 19 Southminster United Church Kids Choir I November 28 Southminster United Church University of Lethbridge Art Gallery And yet we still remain November 1 – December 21 Reception November 1, 4pm Main Gallery University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts TheatreXtra: 1000 Names by Chelsea Woolley November 1 – 3, 8pm November 3, 2pm David Spinks Theatre Music at Noon November 6,13,20,27, 12:15pm University Recital Hall Opera Workshop: Bad Boys of Opera November 2 & 3, 8pm University Recital Hall

University Theatre U of L Wind Orchestra & Guests October 16, 7:30pm Southminster United Church

Adventureland (New Media Series) November 7, 6:30pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre

Rubbing Stone Ensemble October 19, 8pm University Recital Hall

Capella Artemisia November 15, 8pm University Recital Hall

November

The Lion in Winter by James Goldham November 20-24, 8pm University Theatre

november

Bowman Arts Centre Christmas Sale November 30, 10am – 9pm December 1, 10am – 4pm Empress Theatre Shane Yellowbird November 16 & 17, 8pm Galt Museum & Archives Volunteer Holiday Dinner & Dance November 9 (tentative date) A Night at the Museum November 29, 5pm

20

Geomatic Attic Hawksley Workman November 2, 8pm

Classical Percussion Concert November 27, 8pm University Theatre U of L Wind Orchestra November 30, 8pm Southminster United Church

Master Series III Messiah – Vox Musica December 10, 8pm New West Theatre Tidings December 18 – January 5, 8pm Yates Theatre Peg and the Yeti December 26 – January 5, 1pm & 3:30pm January 4 – 7pm only Sterndale Bennett Theatre Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden New Year’s Eve Celebration December 31, 11:30pm Oldman River Potters Guild Christmas Sale November 30 – December 8 Bowman Arts Centre Southern Alberta Art Gallery Cyclorama Lyla Rye December 7 – January 27 Stacks Eleanor King December 7 – January 27 University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts U of L Jazz Ensemble December 1, 8pm University Theatre Music at Noon – Student Showcase December 4, 12:15pm University Recital Hall Menotti’s Amahl and the Night Visitors December 2, 2pm & 4pm University Recital Hall Somewhere (New Media Series) December 5, 6:30pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Winter Wonder December 7, 8pm University Recital Hall Hansen & Plessis Duo December 15, 8pm U of L 6th Level Atrium

january

January December

december

Empress Theatre Terry McDade & the McDades Christmas Show December 13 & 14, 8pm

Lethbridge Folk Club Lizzy Hoyt Band January 19, 8pm

events

Lethbridge Public Library Banff Mountain Film Festival January 7-12, 7pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre

Music to Warm the Long Winter Nights January 16, 7:30pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre

Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Chamber Series III January 18, 8pm Southminster United Church

Big Band Cabaret January 19, 8pm U of L Ballrooms

A Night at the Opera!

Special Dress Rehearsal of Fledermaus –The Opera Ball!

University of Lethbridge Opera Workshop January 30, 8pm Oldman River Potters Guild Louise Cormier Workshop – Screen Printing January 12 Bowman Arts Centre Troyanda Ukrainian Dance Club Malanka Performance, Dinner & Dance January 19 Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization University of Lethbridge Art Gallery Tracing the Elusive Past of the Chinarians January 10 – February 22 Reception January 10, 4pm Helen Christou Gallery

TheatreXtra 3 January 24 – 26, 8pm January 26, 2pm David Spinks Theatre Celebrate Poulene January 25, 8pm University Recital Hall Abbondanza January 26, 6pm CoCo Pazzo Italian Café February february Empress Theatre Louise Pitre February 14 & 15, 8pm Lethbridge Folk Club Pharis and Jason Romero February 9, 8pm Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Master Series IV Fledermaus – The Opera Ball February 1 & 2, 8pm Southminster United Church

The Uncanny Valley January 10 – February 28 Main Gallery

Love Notes – A Valentine’s Ball February 9 Coast Hotel & Conference Centre

University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts Moon (New Media Series) January 9, 6:30pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre

Playgoers of Lethbridge Noises Off by Michael Frayn February TBA Yates Theatre

Music at Noon January 22 &29, 12:15pm University Recital Hall

University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts The Artist (New Media Series) February 6, 6:30pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre

Music at Noon February 5,12,26, 12:15pm University Recital Hall

U of L Wind Orchestra & Guests February 7, 7:30pm College Drive Community Church The Neverending Story by Michael Ende February 12 – 16, 7pm University Theatre

New West Theatre An Almost Perfect Things by Nicole Moeller February 28 – March 9, 8pm March 2 & 9, 1pm & 8pm Sterndale Bennett Theatre Oldman River Potters Guild Karen Dormaar – Glaze Mixing Workshop March 23 Bowman Arts Centre University of Lethbridge Art Gallery Projects by Museum Studies Interns March 1 – May 31 Helen Christou Gallery

TheatreXtra 4 February 28 – March 2, 8pm March 2, 2pm & 8pm David Spinks Theatre March

march

Ammena Dance Company An Explosion of World Dance and Music March 2, 7pm Yates Memorial Centre Empress Theatre Jayme Stone’s Room of Wonders Tour March 21 & 22, 8pm Lethbridge Folk Club Dave Gunning March 2, 8pm Lethbridge International Film Festival March 18 -23, 7pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Chamber Series IV March 1, 8pm Southminster United Church Master Series V March 25, 8pm Southminster United Church

Annual Curated Student Exhibition March 8 – April 18 Main Gallery University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts Kiss Kiss Bang Bang March 6, 6:30pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Music at Noon March 5,12,19,26, 12:15pm University Recital Hall Quasar Saxophone Quartet March 9, 8pm University Recital Hall 7th Annual U of L Film Festival March 22, 8pm Location TBA Estuary by Ron Chambers March 19 – 23, 8pm University Theatre New Media Student Showcase: Event and Exhibition Design March 29 & April 10 U of L Penny Building

Contact information for each event/organization: Allied Arts Council www.artslethbridge.org

Karen Romanchuk www.reverbnation.com/karenromanchuk

Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens www.nikkayuko.com

Ammena Dance www.ammenadance.com

Lethbridge Community Band Society www.lcbs.ca

Old Man River Potters Guild 403.393.0635

Bowman Arts Centre www.communityartscentre.org

Lethbridge Folk Club www.lfc.ab.ca

Playgoers of Lethbridge www.playgoers.ca

Empress Theatre www.empresstheatre.ab.ca

Lethbridge International Film Festival 404.328.2854

Southern Alberta Art Gallery www.saag.ca

Galt Museum & Archives www.galtmuseum.com

Lethbridge Musical Theatre www.lethbridgemusicaltheatre.ca

Troyanda Ukrainian Dance Club www.troyanda.ca

The Geomatic Attic www.geomaticattic.ca

Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra www.lethbridgesymphony.org

U of L Art Gallery www.ulag.ca

Hatrix Theatre 403.327.2957

New West Theatre www.newwesttheatre.com

U of L Faculty of Fine Arts www.uleth.ca/finearts/events

On the cover: Photos courtesy of the Galt Museum & Archives