K-indie: indie music for kids p.4 | The High Performance Rodeo belongs to Calgary p.8 Designing The Little Prince—The Musical p.14 | Calgary Philharmonic survives two World Wars p.16
M A G A Z I N E WINTER 2016 | #02
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Gregory Porter
Boban y Marko Marković Orkestra
The coolest voice in jazz today Friday, February 19, 2016 Lobby Pre-show 6:30pm/Concert 7:30pm
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Wednesday, March 2, 2016 Lobby Pre-show 6:30pm/Concert 7:30pm
Arts Commons, Jack Singer Concert Hall | Tickets starting at $29 Title Sponsor BD&P World Music
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Tickets: 403-294-9494 or artscommons.ca
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LETTER FROM JOHANN
B
eing a South African (and a new Canadian!), it took me a while to adapt to Calgary winters. Don’t get me wrong—South Africa has winter too, and to be honest, I have been colder in South Africa than I have ever been in Calgary—but that’s another story. What I had to get used to here is that winter is when people go out: to shows, hockey games, restaurants, and skiing. In my home country, we stayed home and hibernated during winter, which was all of one month long. But here I have learned to enjoy all the incredibly diverse and exciting happenings during the loooong winter. So much so, that I have to admit to now looking forward to it! Just flipping through this issue of the Arts Commons Magazine is enough to get anybody excited about the season. We have so much going on, and we want you to “Come on in! We are OPEN – and warm!” So many of our activities include free experiences, and our resident companies have worked hard to be accessible to all, because we do not want you to experience any barriers to enjoying wonderful moments with us. Accessibility is not only about cost. I hope you will enjoy our improved wayfinding signage, our behind-the-scenes experiences, our visual art galleries, and our new social gathering space adjacent to the Ca’Puccini Theatre Café. We want you to feel at home and welcome in our “Commons”, where you can gather to enjoy and share meaningful experiences through the arts. This is a year where many of the organizations in this facility, as well as the facility itself, celebrate our collective 30th anniversary. Since opening our doors on September 14, 1985, we have had the treasured privilege of serving this ever-growing community. As we grew from three to six theatres, and from three to seven resident companies, the city grew from 600,000 to 1.2 million residents. Every resident—old and new—bringing their own stories, cultural expression, ambitions, desires, creativity and joys to the place we call home. Through ups and downs (and Calgary knows about that!), we have always found a way to move forward, and to hold hands while doing so. So it is with the Arts Commons family, and we feel honoured that you have always been a part of our story – holding our hands as we move forward. Thank you! We feel a genuine pleasure knowing we have made your journey just a little better, a little more fun, a little more compassionate, and a little more creative. So come on in and enjoy Elska’s “Indie music for kids”, High Performance Rodeo’s offerings of international greatness (and some strangeness too), all kinds of free events and exhibitions, The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra’s 60th year, Theatre Calgary’s behind-thescenes look at the world premiere of The Little Prince – The Musical, Downstage’s free plays, and so much more – all here at your Arts Commons. Welcome!
Johann F. Zietsman President & CEO, Arts Commons
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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contents
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Getting to know each other Iceland’s Elska comes down from her volcanic island and brings her curious creatures and infectious pop beats to Calgary. Arts Commons' Director of Programming talks about the ‘Bjork for kids’ and the rise of indie music for kids, or K-indie.
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Calgary’s Other Rodeo Celebrates 30 Years The High Performance Rodeo looks back on their history, from the illegal to the merely experimental, from world-renowned artists to the most obscure, all in the service of heating up Calgary during its freezing Januarys.
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Winter Freebies at Arts Commons Be it a life drawing session with theatre costumes, an experimental panel discussion with Canadian artists, or a stirring documentary on the 1960s women’s rights movement, there’s plenty you can come out to experience for free.
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An explosion of imagination Get a behind the scenes glimpse at the costume designs for the world premiere of Theatre Calgary’s The Little Prince – The Musical.
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Arts Commons Winter 2016
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Two World Wars, Nine Conductors, and a Petition to Holland How the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra has weathered the years to celebrate their 60th anniversary today.
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What’s on at Arts Commons What’s new and notable this winter at Arts Commons.
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A Living Legacy We remember a dear friend of Arts Commons and the thousands of lives that she and her husband Ken have impacted over the years.
37 Map
The where’s what and the what’s where of Arts Commons.
CO M M ON S AZ IN G AR TS YE S! TH IS AM ON LI NE ! M AG AZ IN E IS aring, perience by sh ex ur yo nd pa Ex ication bl pu is th g joyin reading, and en mmons.ca tsco online. Visit ar
#artscommon @yycarts
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contributors
Jennifer Johnson
TASHA KOMERY Editor-In-Chief
Jennifer Johnson is the Director of Programming at Arts Commons in Calgary, presenting multiple music series, speakers, youth and special presentations alongside a robust arts learning portfolio and a focus on local artists. At the heart of Jennifer’s programming philosophy is expression, inspiration, identity, connection, and belonging.
ALEX BONYUN (maternity leave) Managing Editor
RICHARD LAM Managing Editor
KAIJA DIRKSON Creative Manager
ERIN BELTON
Shelley Spackman
Graphic Design
Shelley Spackman is Interim Artistic Producer at Downstage and has a diverse background in fund development, event design, volunteer management and communications. A selfproclaimed lifelong lover of the arts - she has worked with Arts Commons and with One Yellow Rabbit on their everzany High Performance Rodeo. Please note Shelley is also camera shy so Rex (Downstage’s resident office dinosaur) is her stand-in headshot.
CONTRIBUTORS Kaija Dirkson, Anne Georg, Jennifer Johnson, Natasha Jensen, Saskia Knight, Richard Lam, Trudie Lee, Jodi Lucas, Zachary Moull, Marie Pollock, Shelley Spackman, and Johann Zietsman
RESIDENT COMPANIES
Anne Georg
Alberta Theatre Projects, Arts Commons Presents, Calgary International Children’s Festival, Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Downstage, One Yellow Rabbit, and Theatre Calgary
Anne Georg freelances as a writer and photographer for various publications and organizations. It’s a good life. It affords her fabulous opportunities to ask a lot of impertinent questions and be part of the culture and social scene wherever she may roam – and roam she does.
PUBLISHED BY Arts Commons 205 8th Avenue SE Calgary, Alberta T2G 0K9 Phone: 403-294-7455 Fax: 403-294-7457 artscommons.ca © Copyright 2016 by Arts Commons; may not be reprinted without expressed permission. The opinions expressed herein are those of the respective authors and not necessarily those of Arts Commons. Arts Commons will not be liable for any damages or losses, howsoever sustained, as a result of the reliance on, or use by a reader or any other person of, any information, opinions or products expressed, advertised or otherwise contained herein. Whew… glad we got that out there, now enjoy the magazine.
I N E M A G A RZ2 0 1 6 | # 0 2 WINTE
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to Calgary p.16 nce Rodeo belongs two World Wars High Performa p.4 | The onic survives music for kids | Calgary Philharm K-indie: indie he Musical p.14 Little Prince—T
Designing The
ON THE COVER As part of Arts Commons' Youth and Family presentations, the ‘Bjork for kids’ Icelandic sensation Elska will perform this February on the Martha Cohen Theatre stage with her show Middle of Nowhere. Turn the page to learn more! Photo © Bernhard Kristinn
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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Getting to
know each other Arts Commons reveals why Elska is the perfect family play date for Calgary
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Arts Commons Winter 2016
WRITTEN BY JENNIFER JOHNSON
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lska’s Middle of Nowhere is theatrical storytelling and song at its best. Part theatre, part concert, and part campfire tales, playful pioneer Elska explores an undiscovered island in Iceland. Her infectious modern pop and techno grooves are freshly appealing to a new generation of parents and children alike and her stories and songs echo our Canadian experience.
As Arts Commons continues to develop and present more youth and family programs, I encourage our audiences to join us in the journey. There is no need to have ever attended a kid’s show before, nor to have kids of your own. There are no rules on how to dress or when to applaud. We encourage multi-generational participation. Join your grandkids, nieces, and nephews. Invite your child’s friend, or plan a family ‘play’ date.
I selected this 50 minute performance for its delightful combination of stories, fresh take on “K-indie” music (indie music for kids), inclusion of mixed media, and simple yet stimulating visuals. Above all I found Elska’s journey to be beautifully in touch with the lives and experience that Calgary’s children and families share each day.
Access to a wide variety of the arts throughout our lives, particularly at a young age, is a proven driver for self and societal development, improving our ability to contextualize, understand, and form opinions. The arts help us develop empathy and build perspective. It is in these ways that we shape our sense of identity, of community and belonging.
We are a country of immigrants and a province of pioneers. Calgary’s wonderfully diverse and growing community reflects the immigrant experience and pioneer spirit which binds us all. Every day we experience our city evolving, getting to know and understand one another, striving to build something special, and knowing we can achieve great things together. Elska too is a pioneer. As she embarks on her adventure, she tells the tales of the characters she encounters along the way and shares how strangers become friends. Elska’s journey exemplifies compassion, kindness, discovery, and respect. Her spirit exudes joy and appreciation for the moment and her surroundings. She reminds us when to put the cell phone down, to be present to all the wonder around us, and to appreciate the special people in our lives. Middle of Nowhere may be a performance for children but it appeals to the child in all of us.
As Arts Commons strives towards “a creative and compassionate society through the arts" we are proud to begin offering thoughtful and fun family experiences. Engineers, architects, chefs, and landscapers exemplify where and how creativity surrounds our daily experience. Arts Commons Presents looks forward to sparking the imagination of our children and celebrating the power of bringing the arts to life.
Arts Commons Presents
who what when
Elska: Middle of Nowhere
February 6 & 7, 2016
where
Martha Cohen Theatre
403-294-9494 artscommons.ca
tickets
Opposite: Photos © Bernhard Kristinn and Kelly Hofer
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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Arts Commons Winter 2016
Exciting getaways Oil keeps people on the move. With 92% of our transportation needs fuelled by oil, it moves people, and the goods and services that drive our economy and improve quality of life. Find out more at More2theStory.com.
Explorers help us find the future.
Proud supporter of National Geographic Live, a speaker series that introduces new ideas, amazing sights and behindthe-lens perspectives. saskatchewanminingandminerals.com
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Arts Commons Winter 2016
CALGARY’S OTHER RODEO TRADITION CELEBRATES 30 YEARS WRITTEN BY ANNE GEORG
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ne Yellow Rabbit’s High Performance Rodeo is forward looking by its very nature and all of its impulses and instincts. Its vision is about “Who we are now” and that usually means developing collaborations for sometime in the future. That said, no one is anything without their history. And with the 30th anniversary of OYR’s High Performance Rodeo, Calgary’s International Festival of the Arts, it’s time to find out why HPR is what it is now. Back in 1987, the inaugural festival featured five shows that were—safe to say—bizarrely experimental. The event was not even legal because the venue (a converted office in a downtown building) contravened fire laws. Only a few dozen people attended the secret festival (you had to know a phone number, to find out the meeting place, from where you were brought to the office). Over the decades, the Rodeo grew with One Yellow Rabbit. It secured a venue and even a marketing budget(!). It began to collaborate with Calgary’s leading educational and cultural organizations – and took its place among them. The Rodeo has grown up with Calgary, and it has also changed Calgary with its unwavering conviction that Calgarians would come to the theatre if you gave them stimulating performances. And they did – to see NYC-based Penny Arcade’s international premiere of Bitch! Dyke! Faghag! Whore! The Penny Arcade Sex and Censorship Show. It was 1992 – and the Rodeo’s first box office hit. From there, the Rodeo has brought to Calgary some of the most celebrated artists in Canada and the world – and some of the most obscure. Think Goat Island (1997) and Mexico’s Lucha VaVoom
(2012). The Rodeo has hosted global cultural royalty, too. Philip Glass was the Rodeo’s first official Artist-in-Residence (2009). Other notable artists include: Laurie Anderson (2005, 2012), Brian Eno (2011), Bruce McCulloch (1997, 2014), Marie Chouinard (2001, 2003, 2004), and Daniel MacIvor (1991, 2001, 2004 2013, 2016). In 2007, the Rodeo changed its name to include ‘Calgary’s International Festival of the Arts’ in recognition that this scrappy festival was a big part of Calgary. The Rodeo has always been all about Calgary; building it, bending it, shocking it, exposing it, embracing it and changing it for the better. It has also nurtured a new generation of theatre-makers in Calgary (Ghost River Theatre and Green Fools, among others) by offering opportunities to participate, perform, and create at the Rodeo. In 2016, Kenna Burima, one of these young artists now in full stride, is collaborating with the Rodeo and other artists in The Calgary Songs Project, a 30-year pageant of song created from 30 songs by Calgary musicians. Public input is encouraged and there’s going to be dancing involved – as always at the Rodeo. But 2015 is the year the Rodeo rings in their 30th anniversary. With 25 shows in over a dozen venues, it has become the signature event for Calgary and Arts Commons in the month of January. And, as observed by Calgary’s own Mayor Naheed Nenshi: “It’s January. It can be chilly. But in the Arts District, it’s hot, hot, hot! High Performance Rodeo has become one of the best festivals in the country where all Calgarians can enjoy cutting edge performance and an incredible urban vibe.” This is who we are now.
“The Rodeo has always been all about Calgary; building it, bending it, shocking it, exposing it, embracing it and changing it for the better.”
Opposite: Photo of dancer Carol Prieur from Humanitas, Compagnie Marie Chouinard © Michael Slobodian.
One Yellow Rabbit
who what when
The High Performance Rodeo
January 7–31, 2016
where tickets
Venues vary
403-294-9494 hprodeo.ca or artscommons.ca
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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Happenings #3 February 29, 2016
At Arts Commons WRITTEN BY RICHARD LAM
Q
uick! Picture your favorite memory at Arts Commons. Was it the concert where you finally got to hear your high school anthem or wedding song performed live? Was it a chance encounter or a conversation with an artist working in the centre? Was it a chilling reveal in a twisty, tumultuous stage play? Or was it a single, sustained note that brought tears to your eyes? We want everyone to have more of those. More moments, more surprises, and more delight. As a gathering space for artists and audiences, we want your winter to be filled with fun, cultural things to do without ever stepping in the cold and without emptying your wallet. So grab a Ca’Puccini coffee and roam the halls with us for these free events...
Opposite: (a) Artists from The Peel, (b) In Stillness by The Peel Project artist Katie Green, (c,d) Life drawing sessions in The Hub at Arts Commons. Photos © Natasha Jensen, (e,f) Stills from She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry.
A Milestone Anniversary! APRIL 19th
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Join us on 8th Avenue outside at Jack Singer Concert Hall for a noon-hour celebration of the 100th anniversary of Alberta’s women receiving the right to vote.
Arts Commons Winter 2016
Our Happenings tradition continues with a massive, centre-wide celebration of The Peel Project, in which six Canadian artists journeyed through North America’s last intact river system, documenting their experiences through their art. A massive and multi-layered project that brings together film, visual arts, and science, this reception will include: Art!Flicks premiere of The Peel documentary, post-show panel discussions, live performances, button making, and of course, snacks and wine for a proper toast.
Life Drawing March 14, 2016 Bring your drawing materials and stretch your artistic muscles! Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious beginner, you can learn to draw with this free session themed around the vast costume collection from Theatre Calgary and Alberta Theatre Projects; this is a chance to find inspiration from the rich and detailed costumes of the stage. Registration required. Please contact njensen@artscommons.ca
Art!Flicks April 19, 2016 As part of Happenings #4, Arts Commons will present a free Art!Flicks screening of She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry. This stirring and informative documentary charts the rise of the women’s movement in the United States between 1966 and 1971 with warmth, humour, and passion. The film's unique blend of historical clips and interviews has been called “a great political success story. Visionary and heroic,” by The New Yorker.
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One of Alberta’s premier road construction companies, proudly supporting Arts Commons.
Proud to be the official printer for Offset Printing | Digital | Large Format | Bindery & Specialty Finishing | Mailing & Fulfillment www.mcara-unicom.com 12
Arts Commons Winter 2016
North: 403-250-9510
South: 403-287-2020
Arts Commons
Investing in our communities Repsol is a proud sponsor of Arts Commons’ National Geographic Live educational program.
A CULINARY SHOW THAT TAKES CENTRE STAGE. Join us for three-course pre-performance menus. Reserve now 403-537-4449.
ThomsonsRestaurant
Photo by Carsten Peter
112 Stephen Avenue at Hyatt Regency Calgary Self-parking at the hotel validated by your server @ThomsonsCalgary
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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Arts Commons Winter 2016
WRITTEN BY ZACHARY MOULL
“One sees clearly only with the heart,” Antoine de SaintExupéry wrote in his cherished book The Little Prince.
Theatre, she’s known for her creative uses of unexpected materials – her designs call for newspaper, tinfoil, and bubble wrap as often as lumber and fabric, converting everyday elements into fantastical creations onstage. “The transformation,” she says, “is part of the magic.”
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is eloquent tale about the power of love and creativity comes to Theatre Calgary in a world premiere musical adaptation by Nicholas Lloyd Webber and James D. Reid. “It’s a spellbinding and captivating story,” says Lloyd Webber, “moving through space and time with an array of weird and wonderful characters.”
Opposite: Preliminary research sketches for Little Prince and Snake costume designs by Bretta Gerecke. Sketches © Bretta Gerecke Below, Left: Director Dennis Garnhum, music supervisor Simon Lee, and writers Nicholas Lloyd Webber and James D. Reid explore one of the new musical’s songs. Photo © Zachary Moull Below, Right: Sarah Caraher (The Little Prince) celebrates Alberta Culture Days, adding to Theatre Calgary’s pop-up creativity mural. Photo © Zachary Moull
Saint-Exupéry, who was a pilot himself, filled his original book with evocative illustrations of his characters and the marvellous worlds they inhabit. His clean-lined drawing style, Gerecke says, “allows you to fill in the blanks with your imagination.” Gerecke hopes that her designs for The Little Prince – The Musical will spark creative thinking in much the same way. “My job as a designer,” she says, “is to help the audience go to places that they may have never imagined before. When I go to the theatre myself, I want to be transported.”
Told through the eyes of a lost pilot who has forgotten his childhood talent for drawing, The Little Prince – The Musical celebrates the rekindling of the imagination. In the months leading up to the premiere, Theatre Calgary brought the creative spirit beyond its walls, curating a pop-up creativity project and partnering with Calgary Public Library to hold readings of The Little Prince across the city. The production’s design team has been working hard to meet bold expectations, with Dennis Garnhum, the show’s director, asking for nothing less than “an explosion of imagination.”
When the show opens in mid-January, a remarkable cast of Canadian musical theatre superstars will lead the audience on that journey, including Adam Brazier (The Woman in White) as the Pilot and Louise Pitre (Mamma Mia!) as the Snake. Elicia MacKenzie, who won the hearts of viewers on CBC’s How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria, plays the Rose, and newcomer Sarah Caraher takes on the title role. “We sought out bold and original performers,” says Garnhum, “and I’m thrilled to be hosting artists with such extraordinary passion for musical theatre.”
“When a director gives you a gift like that,” says set and costume designer Bretta Gerecke, “you have a responsibility to run with it.” One of Canada’s most innovative designers, Gerecke is uniquely qualified for the task. As the resident designer for Edmonton’s award-winning Catalyst
Theatre Calgary
who what when
The Little Prince – The Musical
Jan. 19 to Feb. 28, 2016
where
Max Bell Theatre
403-294-7447 theatrecalgary.com
tickets
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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TWO WORLD WARS, NINE CONDUCTORS AND A PETITION TO HOLLAND HOW THE CALGARY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA PREVAILED TO CELEBRATE THEIR 60 TH
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Arts Commons Winter 2016
WRITTEN BY MARIE POLLOCK
T
he Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates a milestone this year: it’s our 60th anniversary. And while the Calgary Philharmonic officially formed in 1955, the Orchestra’s history actually begins well before that. Before there was the Calgary Philharmonic, there was the Calgary Symphony Orchestra, formed in 1910. The Symphony consisted of 55 amateur and professional musicians and was conducted first by A.P. Howells, and later by Max Weil. After World War I, the Calgary Symphony disbanded, leaving
Alberta Philharmonic decided to merge, forming the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Henry Plukker. Since 1955, the Calgary Philharmonic has been a cornerstone of Calgary’s arts community, and is widely regarded as one of North America’s finest and most versatile live music ensembles. The Orchestra is now on its ninth principal conductor (Roberto Minczuk) and its third home, having moved from the Palace Theatre to the Jubilee Auditorium to its current home at the Jack Singer Concert Hall.
“In its 60-year history, the Calgary Philharmonic has strived to make the Orchestra accessible to Calgarians from all walks of life.” Calgary without an organized symphony orchestra until 1928. The orchestra reformed and eventually grew to include 75 musicians. Unfortunately, war intervened once again, and the Calgary Symphony disbanded during World War II. Hoping the third time was the charm, the Calgary Symphony once again reformed in 1947 with conductor Clayton Hare. This brings us to 1955, the most pivotal year in the Calgary Philharmonic’s history. In February 1955, Werner Van Sweeden, a flautist in Calgary, sent a petition signed by 42 musicians to Dutch conductor Henry Plukker, asking him to conduct in Calgary. Plukker obliged, and arrived in Calgary shortly thereafter. Having seen that the Calgary Symphony already had an established conductor, Plukker formed his own orchestra over the summer, calling his group the Alberta Philharmonic Orchestra. While both organizations were highly respected, it was determined that Calgary could not financially support two major orchestras, so after several months of negotiation, the Calgary Symphony and
And although the Orchestra leaders and home bases have changed, the mandate of the Calgary Philharmonic remains the same: to bring audiences exceptional musical performances every time. In its 60-year history, the Calgary Philharmonic has strived to make the Orchestra accessible to Calgarians from all walks of life. In addition to performing great classical hits from Mozart, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, the Orchestra also brings a symphonic twist to the music of such artists as Michael Jackson, the Bee Gees, and Pink Floyd. And for the people who can’t come to the Orchestra, there are a variety of education and outreach programs that bring musicians directly into the community. Musicians from the orchestra frequently visit schools, seniors’ homes, and other charitable organizations for outreach and educational performances. Now 60 years old, the Calgary Philharmonic truly remains Calgary’s Orchestra.
Above: Henry Plukker, Conductor of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra from 1955-62. Middle: (Press clipping) The Women’s League of the Calgary Philharmonic Society’s Symphony-To-Spring Ball, 1961. Bottom: Current Conductor Roberto Minczuk. Photo © Trudie Lee.
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Arts Commons is proud to be home to these theatre and performance companies, festivals, and services.
TAKE CENTRE STAGE ON YOUR WEDDING DAY Get married in the spotlight in our unique, inspiring, and memorable venue located in the heart of downtown Calgary.
Image: Jack Singer Concert Hall, Arts Commons Š RAMSEY KUNKEL photography
SPECIAL OFFER! RECEIVE 15% OFF YOUR VENUE RENTAL BY USING THE PROMO CODE WEDYYC* Book your wedding at Arts Commons today! Call us for your customized quote at 403.294.7455 or email us at booking@artscommons.ca
* Offer expires March 31, 2016. Subject to availability and only valid for new bookings. Other restrictions may apply.
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Arts Commons Winter 2016
Vanessa Maltese, RBC Emerging Artist
Their Someday is the freedom to pursue their passion. The hard work, perseverance and vision of emerging artists demonstrate the power of having – and the joy of realizing – a Someday™. Together with organizations like Arts Commons, we support a diverse range of Canadian talent in communities across the country through the RBC Emerging Artists Project.
TM
® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada.
39788A (05/2015)
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Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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© Austin Taylor
what’s on
December 9, 2015 – February 29, 2016 visual and media arts
Arts Commons Presents
Making of: The Peel Project A behind-the-scenes look at the art created by Aurora Darwin, Anthony Wallace, Daniel J Kirk, Katie Green, Carleigh Baker, and Callan Field. where when
December 1, 2015 – February 29, 2016 visual and media arts
Arts Commons Presents Gallery of Alberta Media Arts
© Katie Green
info
Visions of an Imperfect Mind, Insterstices II, and 35.7
Window Galleries
Always open artscommons.ca
December 9, 2015 – February 29, 2016 visual and media arts
Arts Commons Presents
A Public Decompression: The Peel Project An experimental and open studio for artists Daniel J Kirk and Katie Green.
JP Marchant, Kyle Whitehead, and Austin Taylor present their short films that explore snapshots of life and art from the different artists’ perspectives.
where when info
where
Arts Commons Always open info artscommons.ca
Lightbox Gallery
Visit website for studio times artscommons.ca
December 16, 2015 – April 29, 2016
when
visual and media arts
December 7, 2015 – February 29, 2016 visual and media arts
Arts Commons Presents
© Sasha Foster
Arts Commons Presents
FAR OUT
Calgary-based artist Sasha Foster will entirely transform the Ledge Gallery into a psychedelic neon spatial fantasy. She will stimulate the senses through use of audio, visual, and tactile encounters, creating a carefully curated experience for the audience. where
Ledge Gallery Always open info artscommons.ca when
december 20
Arts Commons Winter 2016
The Peel Project: Confluence at Aberdeen Canyon A sound installation in the +15 Soundscape featuring artists Anthony Wallace and Carleigh Baker. where when info
+15 Soundscape
Always open artscommons.ca
January 7 – 11, 2016
January 9, 2016
theatre
music
One Yellow Rabbit and Theatre Calgary
EMH Productions Inc.
Part of the 30th anniversary of High Performance Rodeo
Iranian singer Ebi may be 66 years old, but his voice is showing no signs of age. Ebi has become a voice for three generations of Iranians worldwide. His latest album Jane Javani is as relevant, as politically charged, and as powerful as anything he’s put out in his 50-year career.
evalyn parry’s SPIN
Ebi
Through a series of songs played live on a vintage bicycle, award-winning Toronto theatre artist and songwriter, evalyn parry, takes her audience on an innovative musical and theatrical journey about women, cycling and liberation. where when
tickets
where when
Martha Cohen Theatre
tickets
Show times vary
Jack Singer Concert Hall
9pm
artscommons.ca
HPRodeo.ca OR theatrecalgary.com
January 12 – 23, 2016 January 7, 2016
theatre
One Yellow Rabbit
free public performance
Calgary, I Love You, but You’re Killing Me
One Yellow Rabbit and Theatre Yes
The Club
Part of the 30th anniversary of High Performance Rodeo
Part of the 30th anniversary of High Performance Rodeo
The City is a nest and a distraction. Safe and dangerous, comforting and alien, it exhausts and energizes in equal measure. Calgary, I Love You, but You’re Killing Me is about music, comedy, and the mysterious relationship we all have with home.
A play in an elevator may make some cringe, but the loud music, dancing cast, and flashing lights in The Club distract from the tight space. And if you’re not expecting all this, the confusion about what’s going on will as well. where when info
where
Martha Cohen Theatre Elevator
when
Show times vary HPRodeo.ca
tickets
PCL Blues: Lurrie Bell The Chicago blues tradition is personified in Lurrie Bell, a man who’s emotional honesty and heartfelt lyrics can be felt in every twang of his electric guitar. Son of famed blues harmonica player Carey Bell, Bell picked up his father’s guitar at age five and has been playing ever since. where when
tickets
© Paul Paul Natkin Natkin ©
Arts Commons Presents
Big Secret Theatre
8pm HPRodeo.ca
January 14, 2016
January 8 & 9, 2016 music
food and drink
MS Society of Canada, Alberta Division
2016 Calgary Whiskey Festival In support of the MS Society of Canada, the 2016 Calgary Whiskey Festival is a barnburner of an evening, featuring over 100 whiskies from distilleries around the world. where when
tickets
Engineered Air Theatre
Jack Singer Lobby
6pm artscommons.ca
7:30pm artscommons.ca
january
Artists, dates and programs subject to change. Listings within is as of time of press.
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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January 15 & 16, 2016
January 19 – February 28, 2016
music
theatre
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Theatre Calgary
Blockbuster Broadway!
The Little Prince – The Musical
In association with Lamplighter Drama, London, UK. Based on the book by Antoine de SaintExupéry. Adapted by Nicholas Lloyd Webber and James D. Reid.
Broadway’s biggest hits come to life as conductor Adam Johnson, the Calgary Philharmonic, and guest Broadway vocalists roll out some of the biggest show tunes from New York’s most beloved musicals. Jack Singer Concert Hall
where when
The Little Prince is one of the most universally cherished books of all time, selling millions of copies worldwide. Now it comes to life in a spectacular new musical celebration of the imagination and the artist within us all.
8pm
tickets
calgaryphil.com
where when
January 17 & 18, 2016
tickets
Max Bell Theatre
Show times vary theatrecalgary.com
speaker series
Arts Commons Presents
National Geographic Live Gorongosa Reborn with Bob Poole
January 21, 2016
Emmy Award-winning cinematographer Bob Poole takes us deep into the African wilds and civil warzones where he worked with rangers and scientist to save a lost Eden in one of the biggest conservation projects on the planet: Gorongosa National Park.
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
when
Sun 2pm / Mon 7pm
tickets
artscommons.ca
From the Podium Lecture: Tchaikovsky’s Fate: Mottos & Meanings in the Late Symphonies Tchaikovsky’s last three symphonies are a microcosm of his life, embodying the Romantic notion of the struggle of the individual against morality. We examine his remarkable life and music and his ingenious use of musical mottos.
© Bob Poole
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
lecture/presentation
January 19 – 31, 2016
where
theatre
tickets
when
Jack Singer Concert Hall
6:30pm calgaryphil.com
One Yellow Rabbit and Alberta Theatre Projects
Life, Death and The Blues Part of the 30th anniversary of High Performance Rodeo
Blues jam meets live theatre! This is the true life tale of a typical Canadian kid from a South Asian / Irish background, who just can’t help lovin’ the Blues. Martha Cohen Theatre
where when
tickets
Show times vary HPRodeo.ca OR ATPlive.com
January 22 & 23, 2016 © Michael Cooper
A Theatre Passe Muraille production, in association with Hope And Hell Theatre Co.
music
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Tchaikovsky & Sibelius with Augustin Hadelich Augustin Hadelich, one of the hottest violinists playing today, makes his Calgary Philharmonic debut performing Sibelius’ powerful Violin Concerto. The Orchestra wraps up the evening with Tchaikovsky’s passionate Symphony No. 6. where when
tickets
january 22
Arts Commons Winter 2016
Jack Singer Concert Hall
8pm calgaryphil.com
January 27 & 28, 2016
January 30, 2016
theatre
music
One Yellow Rabbit presents
Tooth Blackener
Part of the 30th anniversary of High Performance Rodeo
Singer-songwriter and crowd favourite MBF returns to his hometown to fill the Jack Singer Concert Hall for his new album, I wanna make it with you. A record born in longing, it is what Michael describes as ‘music to get a speeding ticket to’.
Bastardy
Michael Bernard Fitzgerald
Amiel Courtin-Wilson’s documentary about Australian legend Uncle Jack Charles: veteran actor, musician, Koori elder and activist – but for a good portion of his nearly 70 years, he has also been an addict, a thief, and a regular in Victoria’s prisons. where when
when
February 3, 2016 music
Arts Commons Presents
BD&P World Music: Yamato: The Drummers of Japan – Bakuon
theatre
One Yellow Rabbit and reWork Productions
Who Killed Spalding Gray?
Having thrilled millions of audience members around the globe since their founding in 1993, Yamato is dedicated to showcasing the undeniable dynamism of Japan’s traditional Wadaiko drums. Combine these massive drums with dance, costume, and a flare for the dramatic and you have one heart-pounding evening of contagious rhythm.
Part of the 30th anniversary of High Performance Rodeo The return of Rodeo favourite, Daniel MacIvor, in his latest creation inspired by the death of a celebrated American monologist. A solo performance about truth, lies, and the four most important things in life. Big Secret Theatre
where
8pm tickets HPRodeo.ca when
8pm artscommons.ca
7:30pm HPRodeo.ca
January 27 – 30, 2016
where
Jack Singer Concert Hall
tickets
Big Secret Theatre
tickets
where
when
Jack Singer Concert Hall
7:30pm
tickets
artscommons.ca
January 29 & 30, 2016
February 3 – 7, 2016
film
theatre
One Yellow Rabbit presents
Fire Exit Theatre
Part of the 30th anniversary of High Performance Rodeo
Not your typical cancer play. Sarah & The Dinosaur is an unorthodox, funny, heartbreaking, and honest narrative of one woman and her journey with a cancer that comes to her in the form of a dinosaur.
Eternal: A film by Daniel Fish
Sarah & The Dinosaur
In July 2013, Daniel Fish shot two actors repeatedly performing the final scene of the 2003 film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind for two hours — the only constraint: they must keep going, no matter what happens. where when
tickets
where when
tickets
Big Secret Theatre
Engineered Air Theatre
Show times vary fireexit.ca
5pm HPRodeo.ca
jan/feb
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
23
February 4, 2016
February 6, 2016
music
music
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Calgary Phil Presents: Rachmaninoff Vespers – Luminous Voices & Pro Coro Canada
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
8pm tickets calgaryphil.com when
Renowned worldwide for their daring feats of balance and flexibility, the Peking Acrobats bring their contingent of contortionists, jugglers, trick-cyclists, and gymnasts to the Calgary stage for a visual spectacular, with the Orchestra providing the epic soundtrack.
© Tom Meinhold
Receiving rave reviews, Alberta’s premier professional choral ensembles – Calgary’s Luminous Voices and Edmonton’s Pro Coro Canada – join together in harmony for a haunting performance of Rachmaninoff’s Vespers.
The Peking Acrobats
where when
tickets
Jack Singer Concert Hall
8pm calgaryphil.com
February 6 & 7, 2016
February 5, 2016
(family) music
Arts Commons Presents
music
Arts Commons Presents
© Bernhard Kristinn
PCL Blues: Marcia Ball Famous for her contagious smile and exuberant energy, Marcia Ball has mastered the art of playful good time blues. The Texasborn, Louisiana-raised roadhouse songstress has taken her groove-laden sound from coast to coast, garnered a Grammy nomination, and is a true original.
Explore Elska’s island, a wondrous place off the coast of Iceland, full of curious creatures, fascinating fauna, and infectious pop beats. Called “the Bjork for kids”, Elska enchants with fun lyrics and a catchy techno-pop sound that will enchant parents and children alike. where when
Martha Cohen Theatre
where
Elska: Middle of Nowhere
tickets
Martha Cohen Theatre
1pm & 3:30pm artscommons.ca
when 7:30pm tickets
artscommons.ca
February 5, 2016 music
Live Nation
Corb Lund An ambitious, stylistically diverse and frequently surprising collection, Canadian songwriter Corb Lund returns with his highly anticipated new studio album, Things That Can’t Be Undone and a tour across Canada. Recorded in Nashville, the record pushes his darkly biting tales and rural balladry into new terrain.
February 12 & 13, 2016 This romantic outing features 2012 Honens Prize Laureate Pavel Kolesnikov‘s interpretation of Rachmaninoff’s dizzying Rhapsody, followed by the addition of Samson Tsoy for a four-handed, energetic performance of Bruch’s duo-piano concerto. Then, it’s all about the famous pair of star-crossed lovers, as the Orchestra crowns the evening with a sweeping performance of Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet.
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
when 8pm tickets
artscommons.ca
february 24
Arts Commons Winter 2016
music
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Romeo and Juliet & Rachmaninoff with Pavel Kolesnikov This Valentine’s Day weekend, the Orchestra presents two evenings of romance with Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Bruch’s Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra, and Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Suite. where
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 8pm tickets
calgaryphil.com
February 12 & 13, 2016
February 20, 2016
burlesque
music
The Garter Girls Inc.
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Valentine’s Day with Mr. Gorgeous
Brahms Two: Lovers & The Lullaby with Angela Hewitt
The Garter Girls collective annually delight Calgary audiences by showcasing international stars and the best of local burlesque. This year the collective is presenting King of Burlesque Mr. Gorgeous! where when info
Optimistic and pastoral, Brahms’ Second Symphony follows the frenzy that surrounded the First, while the most famous “cradle song” of all-time affirms the ubiquitous lullaby’s appeal.
Engineered Air Theatre
8:30PM artscommons.ca
where
tickets
February 18, 2016 Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
speaker series
Brahms One: The Love Triangle with Angela Hewitt
Arts Commons Presents
National Geographic Live Spinosaurus – Lost Giant of the Cretaceous with Nizar Ibrahim
Each player in the alleged love triangle of Johannes Brahms, Clara Schumann, and Robert Schumann is represented through their music, culminating with Brahms’ triumphant First Symphony.
tickets
Jack Singer Concert Hall
8pm calgaryphil.com
February 19, 2016
Meet Spinosaurus, the largest predatory dinosaur yet discovered—larger than T. rex— and hear the incredible story of how this prehistoric giant was almost lost to science, before being brought back to light with the help of a remarkable young paleontologist.
© Nizar Ibrahim
when
calgaryphil.com
February 21 & 22, 2016
music
where
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 8pm
where when info
Jack Singer Concert Hall
Sun 2pm / Mon 7pm artscommons.ca
music
Arts Commons Presents
February 25 – 27, 2016
TD Jazz: Gregory Porter
film festival
Grammy-winning jazz singer and songwriter Gregory Porter performs with an intoxicating blend of soul, gospel, jazz, and blues drawn from his roots in Bakersfield, California. His signature style is saturated in every note of his smooth, captivating vocals.
tickets
Jack Singer Concert Hall
7:30pm artscommons.ca
Calgary’s oldest film festival has humble beginnings of showcasing films made on a shoestring budget. Created to inspire, challenge and reinvent traditional notions of cinema, this is one of the few festivals in the world that showcases film exclusively on Super 8 and 16mm.
©Shawn Peters
when
The 24th Annual $100 Film Festival
© Shawn Peters
where
$100 Film Festival
where when
tickets
Engineered Air Theatre
Show times vary 100dollarfilmfestival.org
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
25
February 26, 2016
February 28, 2016
music
film
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF)
Brahms Three: The Brilliance of Brahms with Inon Barnatan
The Oscars®
Join the Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF) for the biggest night in Hollywood! Celebrating the magic of motion pictures, while raising funds to support CIFF, the evening includes a champagne red carpet reception, a pop-up glamour salon, entertainment, silent auction, and live screening of the Oscars®.
Part of the Calgary Philharmonic’s Cetlebration of Brahms, Inon Barnatan joins the Calgary Philharmonic for an evening featuring Brahms’ Third Symphony and First Piano Concerto. Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
when 8pm tickets
calgaryphil.com
where when
tickets
February 27, 2016 music
Brahms Four: Brahms’ World with Simone Lamsma
when 8pm tickets
calgaryphil.com
art party
Arts Commons Presents
Happenings #3
©Marco Borggreve
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
5pm calgaryfilm.com
February 29, 2016
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
The final concert of the Calgary Philharmonic’s Celebration of Brahms features violinist Simone Lamsma playing Brahms’ D Major Violin Concerto, while the Orchestra completes the composer’s symphony cycle with Symphony No. 4.
Engineered Air Theatre
Our Happenings tradition continues with a massive, centre-wide celebration of our GAMA filmmakers, Ledge Gallery artists, and The Peel Project, where six Canadian artists journeyed through North America’s last intact river system. This reception will include experimental panel discussions, live performances, films, and much more. where when
February 28, 2016
info
Upper Centre Court
6pm artscommons.ca/happenings
music
Calgary Civic Symphony
February 29, 2016
Scintillating Soundtracks
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where when
tickets
2:30pm artscommons.ca
film
Arts Commons Presents
Art!Flicks: The Peel
©Tony Hauser
Enjoy great classical and original music from films such as Amadeus, The Shining, On Golden Pond, Gone With the Wind, Lord of the Rings, The Imitation Game, Jaws, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Up and Star Wars.
The Peel is a documentary following six Canadian artists paddling through North America’s last intact river system. A story of art, adventure & Canadian identity. A post-show panel discussion of this North American premiere will take place after the screening with the artists and filmmakers. where when info
february 26
Arts Commons Winter 2016
Engineered Air Theatre
7pm artscommons.ca
March 1 – 19, 2016 theatre
March 3, 2016
Alberta Theatre Projects
music
Enbridge New Canadian Play: Cockroach
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
A man from an unnamed Middle Eastern country hustles to survive in icy Montréal. Can he escape the dark corners of his life, get beyond survival, and start to thrive? Based on the best-selling novel by Rawi Hage. where
Melding high art with pop culture, chamber group Art of Time Ensemble re-invents The Beatles’ soundtrack to the Summer of Love. where
Martha Cohen Theatre
when
when
Show times vary tickets ATPlive.com
tickets
8pm calgaryphil.com
music
visual arts
Arts Commons Presents
PCL Blues: Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar
Arts Commons Presents Gallery of Alberta Media Arts
Wingman, A Woman Comes Into the Room, and M22. 079
Canadian vocal powerhouse Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar hit the stage with songs full of gospel fire. A darling of folk music festivals, Martin has been praised across North America for her performance that is, “gritty, playful, sexy, and 100% real.”
Jadda Tsui, Heather Kai Smith, and Joel Hamilton present their short films that explore the medium by using animation, abstractions, and scratched film stock. Arts Commons
where
when
Always open tickets artscommons.ca
Engineered Air Theatre
when 7:30pm tickets
March 2, 2016
artscommons.ca
March 4 & 5, 2016
music
music
Arts Commons Presents
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
BD&P World Music: Boban y Marko Marković Orkestra
Classic Soul: Aretha to Marvin The hits of chart-topping soul music legends of the ‘60s and ‘70s, from Aretha Franklin and Tina Turner to Marvin Gaye and James Brown, are performed by two of Broadway’s finest performers.
Renowned as the best Balkan brass brand on the planet, Boban y Marko Marković Orkestra has to be seen live to be truly appreciated. Their bold, brassy style is simultaneously electrifying and melancholy, drawing deeply on their Serbian heritage. *Warning: Dancing in the aisles may occur. where
Jack Singer Concert Hall
March 3 & 4, 2016
March 1 – May 30, 2016
where
where
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 8pm tickets
Jack Singer Concert Hall
calgaryphil.com
when 7:30pm tickets
artscommons.ca
march
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
27
March 9 – May 27, 2016
March 11 & 12, 2016
visual arts
music
Arts Commons Presents
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
A collaboration between Calgary artists Cassandra Paul and Nate McLeod, who will create paintings, sculptures, found objects, and video. The exhibition will continuously evolve, with new works being added every week to have an ongoing and changing installation of objects. Ledge Gallery
where when
Jonathan Biss Plays Beethoven
© Benjamin Ealovega
Cassandra Paul and Nate McLeod Faux-Naif
Always open artscommons.ca
info
Widely revered for his impeccable mastery of Beethoven’s works, Jonathan Biss exquisitely interprets Piano Concerto No. 2, paired beautifully alongside Rachmaninoff’s colourful Symphonic Dances. where
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 8pm tickets
calgaryphil.com
March 14, 2016 free public program
Arts Commons Presents
March 9 – May 27, 2016
Life Drawing
visual arts
Join us for a completely unique drawing experience that gives you the chance to be inspired by the rich and detailed costumes of the stage. Each free session is themed around Theatre Calgary and Alberta Theatre Projects’ vast costume collection. Register today!
Arts Commons Presents
A curated selection from artists Zac Slams, Melissa Skowron, Marzieh Mosavarzadeh, and Melinda Topilko, whose works revolve around ideas of gender, identity and power dynamics. Window Galleries
where when
Always open artscommons.ca
info
© Zac Slams
Power and Gender: identity interpreted through discourse
where when info
The Hub
6:30pm artscommons.ca
March 15 – April 10, 2016 theatre
March 10, 2016 lecture/presentation
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
From the Podium Lecture: Beethoven Evolved: To Romanticism and Beyond We examine the evolution of Beethoven’s style in the early, middle, and late stages of his career, and how his music not only bridged the Classical and Romantic periods, but influenced composers for generations to come. Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
when 6:30pm tickets
calgaryphil.com
march 28
Arts Commons Winter 2016
Theatre Calgary
Bad Jews
Jewish cousins are forced to bunk together in an apartment and the result is a wickedly funny and ferocious brawl over religious tradition and family legacy. *Explicit language and adult content. where when tickets
Max Bell Theatre
Show times vary theatrecalgary.com
March 17, 2016
March 24, 2016
music
music
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Jeff Parry Productions
The ferociously entertaining 21-year-old pianist Conrad Tao provides the virtuosic fireworks for this concert, featuring Grieg’s acclaimed Piano Concerto in A Minor.
Direct from London's West End and Broadway, the hit show, Let It Be, will take audiences to the concert the iconic group would have given had they reformed on October 9th, 1980: John Lennon's 40th birthday. You'll hear Beatles' classic hits, as well as popular individual works from each of the Fab Four.
Rush Hour: Northern Exposure: Grieg’s Piano Concerto
where
Let It Be: A Celebration of the music of the Beatles
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 6:30pm tickets
calgaryphil.com
where
March 18, 2016
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when tickets
music
7:30pm artscommons.ca
Stampede Entertainment Inc.
An Evening with Harry Manx
April 3, 2016
A prolific artist, Harry Manx has been dubbed the “essential link” between the music of East and West, creating musical short stories that wed the tradition of the blues with the depth of classical Indian ragas to create his unique ‘mysticssippi’ flavour. where when tickets
music
MusiCounts in association with CARAS
JUNO Songwriters’ Circle
JUNO Songwriters’ Circle brings together some of the most talented Canadian singer-songwriters, sharing songs and stories on stage in support of MusiCounts, Canada’s music education charity associated with CARAS.
Jack Singer Concert Hall
7:30pm artscommons.ca
where
March 19, 2016
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 12pm tickets
music
artscommons.ca
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Nordic Masters: Grieg, Nielsen & Sibelius
April 5 – 23, 2016 theatre
The majesty of the Nordic countries is illuminated through the talents of three of the region’s greatest composers. Program includes Sibelius’ Finlandia, Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A Minor, and Nielsen’s Symphony No. 4 “The Inextinguishable.” where when tickets
Alberta Theatre Projects
Buyer & Cellar
An out of work actor in LA takes a position as the sole employee in the private mall in Barbra Streisand’s basement. Yes, you read that right.
Jack Singer Concert Hall
8pm
where
calgaryphil.com
when tickets
mar/apr
Martha Cohen Theatre
Show times vary ATPlive.com
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
29
April 6, 2016
April 12, 2016
music
music
Arts Commons Presents
Paul Mercs Concerts
Canadian Iranian group Niyaz blend medieval Sufi poetry and folk songs from their native Iran. The Huffington Post described Niyaz as “an evolutionary force in contemporary Middle Eastern music.” Featuring Azam Ali.
Experience the iconic music and visuals of the Star Trek franchise across its five decades of storytelling that includes 700 episodes and 12 blockbuster films. This lavish production includes an impressive live symphony orchestra and international solo instruments.
BD&P World Music: Niyaz and guests
Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
where
when 7:30pm tickets
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 7:30pm
artscommons.ca
tickets
artscommons.ca
April 8 & 9, 2016
April 13 – 30, 2016
music
theatre
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Downstage
Renowned Pops conductor Jeff Tyzik leads this big band salute to the swinging sounds of Artie Shaw, Woody Herman, and the legendary Benny Goodman, featuring the talents of Dave Bennet and Jens Lindemann.
What would you sacrifice for the greater good? Benefit is a riveting drama that wrestles with what trade-offs, big and small, we are willing to accept in order to do good.
The Kings of Swing
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where when
8pm tickets calgaryphil.com
April 10 & 11, 2016 speaker series
Arts Commons Presents
National Geographic Live Extreme Planet with Carsten Peter Take an electrifying journey into some of our planet’s most extreme environments with Carsten Peter, a German photographer and filmmaker who captures dramatic images of places few humans have dared to go, from the South Pacific volcanoes to Tornado Alley. Jack Singer Concert Hall
where when
Sun 2pm / Mon 7pm
tickets
artscommons.ca
Benefit
Downstage
where when
tickets
30
Arts Commons Winter 2016
Show times vary downstage.ca
April 14, 2016 music
Arts Commons Presents
TD Jazz: The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra After 50 years of defining the New York jazz scene, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, house band of the Village Vanguard Club, leaves New York on tour for a rare Canadian appearance. Founded in 1966 by Thad Jones and Mel Lewis, this is a rare chance to witness true jazz history, presented in partnership with CADME. where
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 7:30pm tickets
april
Motel Theatre
artscommons.ca
April 15, 2016
April 19, 2016
music
film
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Arts Commons Presents
Have you ever been… to Electric Ladyland? In a fearless exploration of musical genres, the two time Grammy® Award-winning Turtle Island Quartet refashion works from Jimi Hendrix’s seminal sixties album, as well as other pieces inspired by the legendary guitarist including Little Wing and All Along the Watchtower.
This stirring and informative documentary charts the rise of the women’s movement in the United States between 1966 and 1971 with warmth, humour, and passion. The film’s unique blend of historical clips and interviews has been called, “a great political success story. Visionary and heroic,” by The New Yorker.
Calgary Phil Presents: Turtle Island Quartet Plays Hendrix
where
Art!Flicks: She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
when 8pm tickets
when
calgaryphil.com
info
Engineered Air Theatre
7pm artscommons.ca
April 17, 2016
April 21, 2016
music
music
Calgary Civic Symphony
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Be dazzled by the brilliant performances of Calgary’s best young talents and stars of tomorrow – the winners of the 2016 Calgary Concerto Competition (C3). Also featured on the program are orchestral gems – Estacio’s Bootlegger’s Tarantella and Falla’s Three Cornered Hat Suite No. 2.
Highly-regarded music ensemble Les Violons du Roy head to Calgary for a performance that includes Mozart’s popular Symphony No.40, plus an electrifying piano performance of the “Jeunehomme” Concerto by star pianist Alexandre Tharaud.
where
Calgary Phil Presents: Les Violons du Roy © Camarind Photo
Youthful Brilliance
Jack Singer Concert Hall
where
when 2:30pm tickets
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 8pm
artscommons.ca
tickets
calgaryphil.com
April 19, 2016
April 23, 2016
art party
music
Arts Commons Presents
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Happenings #4
Ode to Joy: Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony
Your invited to an art party! See new work and live performances, featuring local artists Cassandra Paul, Nate McLeod, Zac Slams, Melissa Skowron, Marzieh Mosavarzadeh, Melinda Topilko, Jadda Tsui, Heather Kai Smith, Joel Hamilton, and more! where when info
Themes of peace, hope and joy radiate throughout Beethoven’s profound Ninth Symphony. The piece is accompanied by the world premiere Calgary Philharmonic commission Daughter of Elysium, composed by the Orchestra’s own Arthur Bachmann.
Arts Commons
6pm artscommons.ca
where
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 8pm tickets
calgaryphil.com
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
31
April 24, 2016
April 28, 2016
music
lecture/presentation
Paul Mercs Concerts
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles Paul Mercs Concerts is thrilled to announce the Canadian 2016 tour of the internationally-acclaimed Beatles concert, RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles! Loved by their Canadian fans, this tour is like a homecoming for the globally successful group. Jack Singer Concert Hall
where when
7:30pm
tickets
artscommons.ca
From the Podium Lecture: When Hector Met Harriet: The Revolutionary Symphonie Fantastique This talk focuses on the birth and evolution of program music, by looking at the origin and construction of Berlioz’ manic masterpiece Symphonie Fantastique. where
tickets
April 26 – May 22, 2016 theatre
Theatre Calgary
The Light in the Piazza It’s Italy, 1953. Margaret Johnson and her daughter Clara are touring the sundrenched squares of Florence when a gust of wind carries Clara’s hat to the feet of a handsome Tuscan man. A winner of six Tony Awards. Max Bell Theatre
where when
Show times vary
tickets
theatrecalgary.com
Jack Singer Concert Hall
when 6:30pm
calgaryphil.com
April 29 & 30, 2016 music
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Symphonie Fantastique Berlioz’ vividly expressive blockbuster Symphonie Fantastique explores obsessive lust, stitching together fantastical sequences including a macabre execution and a bacchanalian witches’ Sabbath. where when
tickets
Jack Singer Concert Hall
8pm calgaryphil.com
5
Become a member of Founders Circle and discover exceptional benefits and exclusive offers. Join today! 403-294-7455 ext.1465 artscommons.ca/founderscircle
april 32
Arts Commons Winter 2016
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
33
thank you
Arts Commons wishes to express our sincere appreciation to the following corporations, foundations, governments, and passionate community leaders who give generously to support Arts Commons as we play a key role in the social, economic, cultural, and intellectual life and well-being of Calgarians and visitors.
CORPORATE SPONSORS & FOUNDATION PARTNERS
OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS AND SPONSORED GOODS OR SERVICES
Founders Circle
BD&P World Music and TD Jazz
Big Print Sign Company Inc. Supporting Sponsor, Re-branding Campaign
Founders Circle is Arts Commons’ premiere donor engagement program. Arts Commons’ donors play a critical role in our work to bring the arts…to life.
Arts Commons Endowment Fund through The Calgary Foundation
Big Rock Brewery Inc. Official Brewery
Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer LLP Title Sponsor, BD&P World Music
CBC Media Sponsor
HONOURARY MEMBERS
Burns Memorial Fund Supporting Partner, Hub for Inspired Learning
Calgary Herald Media Sponsor
Cabra Consulting Supporting Sponsor,
Fresh Kitchen Sponsor, VIP Receptions, BD&P World Music
ALSA Road Construction Ltd. Supporting Sponsor,
EXPLORE National Geographic
The Calgary Foundation Partner, Hub for Inspired Learning Cenovus Energy Inc. Student Engagement Sponsor, National Geographic Live
ConocoPhillips Canada Resources Corp.
Major Sponsor, Arts Commons Box Office Student Engagement Sponsor, National Geographic Live Lead Sponsor, Arts Education Program
Dinner Optimist Club of Calgary Supporting Partner, Arts Education Program PCL Construction Management Inc. Title Sponsor, PCL Blues Royal Bank of Canada Series Presenting Sponsor,
National Geographic Live
Saskatchewan Mining and Minerals Inc.
Supporting Sponsor, EXPLORE National Geographic
SerVantage Services Inc. Supporting Sponsor, BD&P World Music Talisman Energy Inc. Supporting Sponsor,
EXPLORE National Geographic
TD Bank Group Title Sponsorship, TD Jazz Series
Title Sponsorship, TD Arts Access Pass
TELUS Supporting Sponsor,
EXPLORE National Geographic
Great Events Group Corp. Sponsor, VIP Receptions, TD Jazz Hyatt Regency Calgary Official Hotel McAra Unicom Official Printer Red Tree Sponsor, VIP Receptions,
National Geographic Live
Teatro Sponsor, Founders Circle ZGM Collaborative Marketing Supporting Sponsor, Re-branding Campaign
GOVERNMENT Government of Canada through the departments of Canadian Heritage and Service Canada Government of Alberta through Alberta Foundation for the Arts, and the department of Culture and Tourism The City of Calgary through the Department
of Community Services and Protective Services Arts Commons would also like to express our gratitude to The City of Calgary for a grant through the Capital Civic Partner Grant Program and the Government of Alberta for a grant through the Community Facility Enhancement Program that enables us to undertake critical lifecycle initiatives that enhance the effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of the 560,665 square foot Arts Commons.
Please note that only gifts of $10,000 or more are listed above. For a complete list of corporate, foundation and government supporters of Arts Commons, please visit our website at artscommons.ca. To inquire about becoming a supporter of Arts Commons, please contact Ms. Nicola Dawes at 403-294-7455, ext.1468 or ndawes@artscommons.ca.
34
Arts Commons Winter 2016
Dr. Martha Cohen, CM, LLD (in memoriam) Sandra LeBlanc Vera Swanson, OC
LEGACY BUILDER MEMBERS Forst Family in loving memory of Steven Harris Henry Sykes, QC & Molly Naber-Sykes
PIONEER MEMBERS Dario Berloni Don Douglas & Betty Dunphy Douglas David & Roxanne Dunlop R. Scott Hutcheson Gregory & Alexa Kudar
VISIONARY MEMBERS Bob & Sue Benzen Michel Bourque & Bryan Clarke Greg Epton & Greg Robertson John McWilliams, QC & Susan McWilliams Randy & Luba Pettipas Stu & Vicki Reid C.A. Siebens Roderick Villanueva Evelyn Wigham Tharrie & Johann Zietsman
MEMBERS Angela Avery & Dave Newby Leslie Biles & Robert Armstrong Patricia Dalk & Terry Burton Norm & Colleen Dickson Anna Ells & Finn Pedersen Jane Golubev & Igor Tesker Brian & Annette Hester Joni Hughes & John Thompson Wes Jenkins Jennifer Johnson & Trev Habekost Dr. Arun Lakra & Dr. Roopa Lakra M. Ann McCaig Rodney & Karen McCann Jason & Leah McIntyre Arlene Flock McKen (in memoriam) & Bill McKen Jock & Diana Osler Holy Schile Nielsen & Dave Nielsen Margaret Southern
Explorers Circle Members of Explorers Circle help National Geographic Society inspire people to care about the planet, and help Arts Commons bring the National Geographic Live speakers’ messages of exploration, discovery, and conservation to Calgary audiences. ENGAGEMENT SPONSORS Bob & Sue Benzen, Gorongosa Reborn: A Cameraman’s Journal by Bob Poole Ken & Chris (in memoriam) Havard, Blue Ocean by Dr. Sylvia Earle
MEMBERS Sandra & Simon Barker Bennett Jones LLP Michel Bourque & Bryan Clarke James & Bev Butler Cabra Consulting Ltd. David & Roxanne Dunlop Jane Durango & Dr. Beverly Frizzell Greg Epton & Greg Robertson Jane Golubev & Igor Tesker Brian & Annette Hester Devin & Shelley Spackman Joyce Warren & Vanessa Arrate Please note that only gifts of $1,000 or more are listed above. For a complete list of individual donors through Founders Circle and Explorers Circle, please visit our website at artscommons.ca. To inquire about becoming a member of Founders Circle or Explorers Circle, please contact Ms. Saskia Knight at 403-294-7455, extension 1465, or sknight@artscommons.ca.
A Living Legacy WRITTEN BY SASKIA KNIGHT
A
rts Commons recently lost a dear friend. Chris Havard was the kind of person one would naturally want to be around: warm, outgoing, adventurous, and always the first to volunteer to help others. Conversations with friends revealed that Chris and her husband Ken had great hearts, possessed a keen interest in nature, and were extremely generous with their time and money to support their community.
Chris Havard (in memoriam)
Chris was a true original: from becoming the first female geology graduate at the University of Calgary, to leading an effort to provide a home for the Alberta Wilderness Association when a lack of funding threatened to close the doors. Executive Director Christyann Olson fondly recalls, “Chris recognized the value of helping others learn about the importance of protecting the environment.” John McFaul, a nature guide and friend of the Havard’s, sat on the board of the Calgary Field Naturalist Society with Chris from 2001-2005. During this time, Chris drove the publication of a book on Calgary’s natural areas by promoting the idea in the community and securing funding. The book sold out quickly and John credits this largely to Chris’s leadership style, in which he describes her as a gifted facilitator, and easy going while keeping everyone motivated.
Chris and Ken Havard’s support of Arts Commons has also impacted thousands over the years. Motivated by their passion for birding, they became the first individual engagement sponsors in 2013 for the National Geographic Live presentation Birds Of Paradise. Director of Development & External Relations Greg Epton notes that Chris and Ken’s generosity paved the way for others to engage: “Not only did Chris and Ken make significant investments over the years, their leadership inspired others to join them as individual engagement sponsors.” Chris’s big-heartedness is exemplified by her most recent gift that helped us launch the Hub For Inspired Learning. This Campus Calgary 21st-Century program of hands-on experiential learning deepens student engagement with the curriculum and transforms learning to its highest levels. Chris’ vision, passion, and caring endures as a living legacy that will inspire and motivate Calgarians for years to come.
Winter 2016 Arts Commons
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Downstage s world premiere of Benefit
WRITTEN BY SHELLEY SPACKMAN
K
nown for theatre that creates conversations around social issues, Downstage is removing barriers to access their work in order to broaden the dialogue and embrace more Calgarians.
In every performance of Downstage’s world premiere of Benefit, which runs from April 13 to 30, 2016, in Arts Commons’ Motel Theatre – 25 per cent of the tickets will be free of charge on a first-come, first served basis. “Our research showed that cost is the most significant barrier to many Calgarians attending a live performance,” says Simon Mallett, Downstage’s Artistic Director. “So we are thrilled to be launching a new approach – our Pay it Forward program.” The hope is this new approach to ticketing will bring new people to the theatre, cultivate a more diverse audience to engage in art that will be directly relevant
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Arts Commons Winter 2016
to their lives, and allow them to participate in vibrant post-show conversations about issues that matter to them. Modeled on successful programs like Mixed Blood Theatre’s Radical Hospitality in Minnneapolis, participants will be told that their tickets have been covered for the night and that if they enjoy the show, they have the option to ‘pay it forward’ by making a donation to cover someone else’s ticket or to spread the word to others who may enjoy the show. The program is designed to be equally valuable to patrons new to theatre or new to Downstage shows, and to those who may face financial barriers. For more information go to downstage.ca or call the office at 403-294-7459.
“In every performance of Downstage’s world premiere of Benefit...25 per cent of the tickets will be free of charge on a firstcome, first served basis.”
OUR LOCATION Our address is 205 8th Ave SE. Our main entrance is located off Stephen Avenue, one block east of the Calgary Tower and across from Olympic Plaza.
Located in the heart of Calgary’s vibrant downtown core, Arts Commons is home to the city’s premier performance venues. Offering public art spaces and six distinct performance venues, including the Jack Singer Concert Hall, Arts Commons is home to a variety of artists and an array of resident companies that include the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and annual events such as the Calgary International Children’s Festival.
GETTING HERE BY LRT Calgary’s LRT (light rail train) service has a station one block north of Arts Commons.
GETTING HERE BY CAR
P1
Arts Commons offers underground parking. Enter off Macleod Trail between 9th and 8th Avenues.
$5
OPEN EVENI NGS & WE EKENDS
P U RC H AS E T IC K E TS AT O U R B OX O F F IC E : C E N T RE CO U RT, 2 2 5 8 T H AV E S E
SEE A SHOW
10 to 6
AM
PM
Sundays
CLOSE D
403-294-9494 artscommons.ca
Other parking options include:
P2
Civic Plaza Parkade
P3
TELUS Convention Centre
P4
Palliser Square (access Arts Commons via the +15 network)
P5
Surface parking lots in the 200, 300 and 400 blocks on the south side of 9th Avenue SE
LANDMARKS Calgary Tower
P3
Olympic Plaza TELUS Convention Centre Hyatt Regency Hotel
P1
P4
P5
P2
P5
Glenbow Museum Marriott Hotel City Hall
BE SOC I AL
JO I N US O N FACEB O O K OR FO L LOW U S O N TW IT T E R FO R CO NCERT A NNO UNCEM E N TS , S P EC IA L O F F E RS , A N D M O RE .
#artscommons @yycARTS
Meet Spinosaurus, the largest predatory dinosaur yet discovered—larger than T. rex— and hear paleontologist Nizar Ibrahim tell the incredible story of how this prehistoric giant was almost lost to science.
SERIES PRESENTING SPONSOR
Become an Explorers Circle member today and meet Nizar Ibrahim in person! Visit artscommons.ca/explorerscircle Sunday/Monday, Feb. 21 & 22, 2016 Sun – 2pm / Mon – 7pm Student Engagement Sponsors
EXPLORE National Geographic Sponsors
Arts Commons Box Office Sponsor
Media Sponsor
Public Sector Support
Official Suppliers
Tickets: 403-294-9494 or artscommons.ca
EXPLORE National Geographic Supporting Sponsors
VIP Reception Sponsor
#artscommons @yycARTS Image by Davide Bonadonna. All speakers, dates and programs subject to change.