Horizon Stage 2007-2008 25th Anniversary Season

NOW ON SALE
Call 962-8995
or visit the Box Office in person
at 315 Jespersen Avenue, Spruce Grove, Alberta

Robert Munsch
Saturday, Oct. 27 - 11:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. & 3:30 p.m. (Bonus Family Matinee)
Author of such classics as Love You Forever and The Paper Bag Princess.

www.robertmunsch.com
Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors,
$10 All Ages with purchase of Family Matinee Package

April Verch & Strung
Saturday, Nov. 3 - 7:30 p.m.
Fiddle, Celtic Guitar, Slide Guitar and Dobro
harmonize with an intensity that will leave you spellbound!
www.aprilverch.com

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

Brad Johner
Friday, Nov. 9 - 7:30 p.m.
Half of the popular Johner Brothers duo in the 1990's,
Brad puts his heart, soul and voice into songs
both he and his audience can relate to.
www.bradjohner.com
Tickets: $25 Adults, $20 Students & Seniors

The Arrogant Worms
Thursday, Nov. 15 & Friday, Nov. 16 - 7:30 p.m.
Canada’s Clown Princes of Musical Comedy.
Enjoy great music and lots of laughs with
these musical comedy geniuses!
www.arrogant-worms.com

Tickets: $30 Adults, $25 Students & Seniors

Colcannon
Thursday, Nov. 22 - 7:30 p.m.
A contemporary Celtic band from Adelaide
whose music and lyrics overflow with Australian content and influences.
www.colcannon.net

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors


The Horizon Players: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Nov. 29, 30 & Dec 1 - 7:30 p.m.
A magical story of star-crossed lovers and
overly-ambitious homespun clowns, this is
one of Shakespeare’s funniest comedies.
www.horizonplayers.com

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

Winter Harp
Monday, Dec. 10 - 7:30 p.m.
A concert of heart-warming contemporary,
Celtic and medieval songs and stories in
celebration of the Christmas and winter season.
www.winterharp.com

Tickets: $30 Adults, $25 Students & Seniors

Mr. Lahey & Randy of Trailer Park Boys
Friday, Jan. 11 - 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Lahey, Randy and J-Roc from the hit Showcase series,
Trailer Park Boys, will interact with their audience
in an evening of skits, stories, and lots and lots of laughter!
Age Restriction: 16+
www.livetourartists.com/trailer-park-boys/index.htm

Tickets: $25 Adults, $20 Students & Seniors

Matt Andersen
Friday, Jan. 18 - 7:30 p.m.
Sprawling blues, roots and rock music performed by a grand, honey- tinged voice.
www.stubbyfingers.ca

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

Genticorum
Saturday. Feb. 2 - 7:30 p.m.
Wooden flute, fiddle, acoustic guitar, jaw harp, bass, foot percussion
and strong vocal harmonies weave together in traditional and original Quebecois music.
www.genticorum.com

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

Patricia O'Callaghan
Saturday, Feb. 9 - 7:30 p.m.
This world-class Toronto soprano’s shows are an eclectic and theatrical blend of repertoire.
www.patricia-ocallaghan.com

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

Hungry Hill
Thursday, Feb. 14 - 7:30 p.m.
A contemporary, acoustic bluegrass band with a focus on original material.
www.hungryhill.ca

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

Jack Grunsky
Saturday, Feb. 16 - 2:00 p.m. (Family Matinee)
A Juno Award-winning children’s entertainer whose music
has found it’s way into homes, classrooms and hearts around the world.
www.jackgrunsky.com

Single Tickets: $12
3 show Family Matinee Package: $30
4 show Family Matinee Package: $40

25th Anniversary Gala with Connie Kaldor
Saturday, March 1- 7:30 p.m.
Officially celebrate Horizon Stage’s 25th Anniversary Season with a
gala evening of music and memories, headlined by a Juno Award-winning singer.
www.conniekaldor.com

Tickets: $30 Adults, $25 Students & Seniors

Dust Poets
Saturday, March 8 - 7:30 p.m.
This five-piece acoustic folk group combines gritty folk-rock,

country-bluegrass, and soaring piano-pop,

to create a genre-bending original sound.
www.dustpoets.com

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

Sean Watson - World of Magic
Saturday, March 29 - 2:00 p.m. (Family Matinee)
Children and their parents will be thrilled and bewildered
by incredible slight-of-hand tricks and mystical levitations.
www.seanwatsonmagician.com

Single Tickets: $12
3 show Family Matinee Package: $30
4 show Family Matinee Package: $40

Sean Watson - Master of Magic & Illusion
Saturday, March 29 - 7:30 p.m.
Fabulous costumes, choreographed music and dance, and
some of the grandest illusions in magic, this
world-renowned magician will amaze and astound everyone!
www.seanwatsonmagician.com

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

The Horizon Players: Man of La Mancha
April 3 - 5 & 10 - 12 - 7:30 p.m.
This Tony Award-winning musical will sweep you
into a world of one of the great heroes of world literature: Don Quixote.
www.horizonplayers.com

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students & Seniors

Missoula Children's Theatre - The Little Mermaid
Saturday, April 26 - 1:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. (Family Matinee)
In this new version of the age-old tale, lots of music,

plot surprises, humour and handsome

Prince Charming await the audience.
www.mctinc.org

Single Tickets: $12
3 show Family Matinee Package: $30
4 show Family Matinee Package: $40

Call 962-8995

Performance Packages
Purchase 2-3 shows & receive 10% off
Purchase 4-5 shows & receive 15% off
Purchase 6+ shows and receive 20% off
** This offer can not be combined with The Arrogant Worms, Winter Harp, Connie Kaldor or any Family Matinee performance.

We're on the web even more!

Horizon Stage now has a myspace page
www.myspace.com/horizonstage
Come check us out!

Also, if you have a Facebook account please consider friending Horizon Stage and/or joining the group Friends of Horizon Stage!

Summer Drama Workshops Now On Sale!

Puppet Workshop
Dates: July 3 & 5 Time: 9 am – noon
Ages: 8 – 11 Program #: 16546
Location: City Hall – 3rd Floor - Aspen Room
Cost: $60
Learn about various types of puppets and how to put on a puppet show. Create characters, props costumes. Design and build a puppet of your very own to take home!
Instructors: Lynette Maurice & Cindi Zuby

Rhyme, Sing, Act & Play
Dates: July 9 –12 OR July 16 – 19 Time: 10 am – noon
Ages: 5 – 7 Program #: 16547 (week 1) & 16548 (week 2)
Location: City Hall – 3rd Floor - Aspen Room
Cost: $60
Learn new rhymes and tongue twisters, sing your favourite movement-based songs, play some simple drama games and have lots of fun!
Instructors: Kerri Gibson Loranger & Tanya Hemmings

Drama Games 1
Dates: July 9 –12 Time: 1 pm – 3 pm
Ages: 8-10 Program #: 16549
Location: City Hall – 3rd Floor - Aspen Room
Cost: $60
Play lots of cool movement and drama based games. Learn about basic role-playing and how to create characters and scenes.
Instructors: Kerri Gibson Loranger & Tanya Hemmings

Drama Games 2
Dates: July 16 – 19 Time: 1 pm – 3 pm
Ages: 11 –13 Program #: 16550
Location: City Hall – 3rd Floor - Aspen Room
Cost: $60
Play some classic Improv games and learn about more advanced role-playing, characters and scene creation.
Instructors: Kerri Gibson Loranger & Tanya Hemmings

Important: Because Horizon Stage is being renovated this summer, all of these classes are being held at Spruce Grove City Hall - 315 Jespersen Avenue.
Children should wear clothing that they can move easily in and non-slip shoes and bring a water bottle.

Call: 962-8995

Vendors Wanted

The Spruce Grove Street Performers Festival and Canada Day Weekend is seeking food an product vendors for June 30 from 6-10:30 p.m. and July 1 from 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Festival Site

All vendors must:
Have a valid Spruce Grove business or hawker/peddler license
Pay a 15% commission on their sales at the event
Provide a $200 deposit cheque (that is only cashed if contract is broken or if the festival incurs cost on the vendors behalf)
Provide a product & price list
Provide photos or diagrams of their set-up
Fill out & return technical and power request forms
Sign & return an official contract
Provide their own tables, tents, floats, equipment and staff

Food vendors must ALSO:
Provide proof of Liability Insurance
Provide proof of Capital Health Certification

Please e-mail Kerri at kgibson@sprucegove.org to apply or for more information.

Audition Notice: A Midsummer Night's Dream

The

HORIZON PLAYERS

Presents

William Shakespeare’s
A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Directed by Joshua Semchuk

November 29 - 30 & December 1, 2007
Horizon Stage, Spruce Grove
1001 Calahoo Road

AUDITION NOTICE

Auditions will be held for all parts on

May 17 from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
May 18 from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

May 19 from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Auditions are by appointment only. Please call 962.8995 to book a date and time.

Please provide theatre and/or film resume along with a headshot
or a recent photograph.

Previous experience with Shakespeare an asset but not necessary.

Dance experience an asset but not necessary. Please list dance experience on resume.

Please bring a monologue to read in front of the director.

For more information please contact: Horizon Stage 962.8995

Artstrek Scholarships Available

What is Artstrek?
Artstrek is a theatre school like no other — a residential summer theatre program for teens that has been running in the province of Alberta since 1959. The program, which takes place each summer on the campus of Red Deer College, is about the exploration of theatre and the components of theatre production rather than getting a show on stage. Over the course of a week, participants explore acting, voice, movement, and directing with some of Alberta's finest theatre professionals. This year students will be working on the W.O. Mitchell classic Who Has Seen The Wind.
Artstrek is not a talent-based program. It is for students who are enthusiastic about theatre and who will be focused on the fun of learning and exploring with their instructors and with other Artstrek participants.

When is Artstrek & Who can attend?
Theatre Exploration I runs July 8 - 14. It is for 13 - 15 year olds who have completed grade 7.
Theatre Exploration II runs July 15 - 22 and is for 16 - 18 year olds who have completed grade 10.

Do I qualify for a Horizon Stage scholarship?
If you are between the ages of 13 and 18, and have completed grade 7 or higher at a school in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain or Parkland County you may apply for a scholarship. Two scholarships are being offered. They can be used for either Theatre Exploration I or Theatre Exploration II. The value of each scholarship is $300.

How do I apply?
To help decide the scholarship winners, Horizon Stage requires a letter from each applicant detailing their experience in theatre studies and
productions, their plans for future involvement in theatre, and explaining why they would like to win this scholarship and why they deserve it. Factors such as academic excellence and financial need will be taken into account.

Complete your letter and submit it to:
Horizon Stage
315 Jespersen Ave
Spruce Grove, AB
T7X 3E8
Fax: (780) 962-0616
ALSO Download your Artstrek Application form from www.theatrealberta.com/artstrek.htm and submit it separately along the entire registration fee to:
Theatre Alberta
3rd Floor, 11759 Groat Road
Edmonton, AB, T5M 3K6
Fax: (780) 422-2663

Scholarship recipients will receive a reimbursement cheque for $300 after they are chosen.
Deadline is June 2 or whenever the courses are full (which is always early) so get your letter and application in as soon as possible!! Scholarship recipients will receive a reimbursement cheque for $300 after they are chosen.
These Artstrek Scholarships are funded by the Horizon Stage Theatre Advisory Board and The Horizon Stagelighters

Audience Feedback: A Few Good Men

Did you see the Horizon Players production of A Few Good Men?
Tell us what you thought of the show and we'll pass your comments on to the Players.

www.horizonplayers.com

Audience Feedback: Hot Toddy

Did you see Hot Toddy at Horizon Stage on March 10th. Please tell us what you thought of their show!

FREE Tickets to Hot Toddy!

Be one of the first THREE people to e-mail your name and contact information to hstage@sprucegrove.org and you'll will two FREE tickets to see Hot Toddy at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m.!!
www.hottoddytrio.com

Audience Feedback: Tomas Kubinek

Did you see family entertainer Tomas Kubinek at Horizon Stage on Sunday, March 4?
Please tell us what you thought of his show... good or bad.
Note: Comments with inappropriate language will not be posted.

Audience Feedback: Montreal Guitar Trio

Did you see The Montreal Guitar Trio at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 3rd? What did you think of their show? Did you like the opening act, The Rosette Guitar Duo? Please tell us what you thought!
Note: Comments with inappropriate language will not be posted.

Win FREE Tickets to Montreal Guitar Trio

Be one of the first two people to e-mail hstage@sprucegrove.org with your contact information (phone number or e-mail address) and you'll win two FREE tickets to The Montreal Guitar Trio at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 3rd.
Visit: www.mg3.ca for more information on The Montreal Guitar Trio.

Montreal Guitar Trio scheduled on Saturday, March 3, 2007

The Hottest Guitar Ensemble in Canada is Coming to Horizon Stage

Selling out theatres wherever they go, the Montreal Guitar Trio has quickly established itself as a force of rejuvenation and cross-pollenization between various musical forms including classical, jazz and folk. Marrying passionate virtuosity with a stealthy sense of humour, guitarists Glenn Lévesque, Marc Morin and Sébastien Dufour charm the ears and capture the hearts of audiences. Their eclectic, energetic music takes listeners on a journey through many cultures - from the mysterious, exotic melodies of India to the hot rhythms of South America, from Spain and the Balkans to the Orient, traditional Quebec and Hollywood. Now they are poised to impress and amaze audience members in Spruce Grove at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 3rd.

Since it was founded at the University of Montréal in 1998, Montreal Guitar Trio has given hundreds of concerts in North America and Europe, many of which have been recorded and broadcast by national networks such as CBC, Radio-France, BRAVO. Société Radio-Canada’s 2002 concert entitled "The Heat of the Day," and performed in Montreal, was nominated for Jazz and World Music Concert of the Year at the prestigious Prix Opus 2002, celebrating musical excellence in Quebec. This concert launched the Trio's second album, Garam Masala, which was also nominated for Disc of the Year. Their 3rd CD, MG3, was released in the fall of 2006.

Opening the evening on March 3rd will be Edmonton’s own Rosette Guitar Duo. Kevin Marsh and Michael Lyngstad balance intricately-woven melodies in a unique style that is enticing and captivating. With musical influences including world, indie-pop, jazz, and classical, they produce a sound that is rhythmically inviting and rich in its harmonic language. Their merging of styles is fresh in its approach - combining the wisdom of quality with the freedom of innocence. Since the Duo's inception in 2001, the pair has been composing music and performing extensively. They have traveled throughout Western Canada and released a full-length album entitled Portage to Tunnel Mountain (2003). Through their music and stage performance, Rosette Guitar Duo allows their audience a full view of their carefree and spirited personalities.

Travel the musical world and experience many new and exotic flavours and sounds with Montreal Guitar Trio and Rosette Guitar Duo at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 3 at 7:30 p.m.. Tickets are just $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and seniors. Or, if you can not make it to their performance on March 3, you can see just The Montreal Guitar Trio at the Shell Theatre in Fort Saskatchewan on Friday, March 2 at 8:00 p.m.. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 or Ticketmaster at 451-8000 for more information.

“The Montreal Trio's guitars know no limits. They journey along with brio from jazz to classical music, from India to Canada. The Ussac Church has been swept away on the thunder of their strings!"
La Montagne Newspaper

"... They delivered loads of infectious good humour and some solid ensemble playing
that skirted the four corners of the musical world."
Bill Rankin, Edmonton Journal

Be sure to visit www.horizonstage.com, www.trioguitarsmontreal.com and www.rosetteguitar.com
Also: Visit www.youtube.com and search for Montreal Guitar Trio to see some amazing video clips!

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Edmonton Journal, Royal Inn Express and Birdsell Grant Gardner Morck, Barristers & Solicitors

Audience Feedback: Romany Blues

Did you see Vinok Worldance's word premiere performance of Romany Blues on Saturday, February 17th? What did you think of the dancers/costumes/choreography/video footage? Please write a short review and tell us what you thought of Romany Blues.
Note: Comments are moderated and offensive language will not be posted.

Audience Feedback: Frog Prince & The Amazing Kreskin

Did you see Alberta Opera's production of The Frog Prince on Saturday, February 10th or The Amazing Kreskin on Sunday February 11th?
Do you have any feedback that you would like to give about either show? Please write a short review and let us know what you though of the performance.
Please Note: Comments will be moderated for inappropriate or offensive language.

Horizon Stage adds New Brunswick Blues & Root’s Band to its line-up

East Coast Music Award Winner Hot Toddy scheduled on March 10, 2007

Known for their alternative acoustic roots and blues stylings and a live show that is full of improvisation and impromptu musical journeys, Hot Toddy will burn up Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 10th. Their high-energy vocals, aggressive guitars, and heart-stopping instrumentals will mix with other, more organic, folky, funky and groovy sounds to push the boundaries of the familiar and captivate all who listen.

With six critically-acclaimed albums and an East Coast Music Award under their belts, Hot Toddy recently won the 2006 Maple Blues Award for Acoustic Act of the Year. Fast becoming one of the east coast’s favourite acoustic acts, the Fredericton-based band is comprised of Thom Swift on acoustic guitar, dobro, vocals; Joel Leblanc on lead guitar, harmonica, vocals, and Tom Easley on acoustic bass and vocals.

Regulars on the Canadian Festival scene, Hot Toddy have played the prestigious Newport Folk Festival in the U.S., the Blue Balls Festival in Switzerland and the Vienna Jazz Festival in Austria. They are often heard on independent radio in the US and Canada and have been highlighted on the CBC a number of times. When they tour, they win fans wherever they play.With musical prowess that is second to none, Hot Toddy can “rip it up” on a stage, throwing the audience into a frenzy, or hold them in the palms of their hands with an original ballad. They have opened for such diverse performers as jazz great, Bill Frisell and country icon Dolly Parton. Hot Toddy has also become a favourite collaborator with such notables as Flamenco great, Juan Martin, harmonica wizard, Mike Stevens and bluegrass legend Raymond McLain, as well as New Brunswick comrades, Isaac and Blewett.

Don’t miss what is sure to be a truly memorable concert experience when Horizon Stage presents Hot Toddy at 7:30 pm on Saturday, March 10, 2007. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and seniors. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 or Ticketmaster for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

“Not since The Band roared out of upstate New York with its original sound have I heard such unique music! Not surprising that the culturally rich East Coast of Canada has once again produced stellar music makers.”
The Signal Star - Goderich Ontario

“Hot Toddy is a unique amalgam of blues and roots music with a hint of jazz,
their musicianship shining brightly on each new release.”
Exclaim! - Toronto

Be sure to visit: www.horizonstage.com and www.hottoddytrio.com

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Edmonton Journal, Royal Inn Express and Birdsell Grant Gardner Morck, Barristers & Solicitors

Vinok Worldance premieres Romany Blues at Horizon Stage - February 17, 2007

Enter a world of passion, memory, longing and tradition

A Canadian is seduced by the mysterious, often misunderstand, Gypsy world on a trip to Europe. This is the starting point for Romany Blues the newest full-length production from Edmonton’s Vinok Worldance. Romany Blues makes it’s world premiere at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove on Saturday, February 17. Inspired by memories of his grandfather to rediscover his roots, young Stan encounters Gypsies in a market square and is initially accepted by the men. But when he falls in love with the fiancée of the village primash (fiddler), he is rejected and turned away. Stan’s wanderings underline the plight of a culture facing inevitable change in a modern world, while also illuminating the struggle for love, self-identification and cultural understanding.

With its themes of jealousy and belonging, Romany Blues marks an exciting new direction for Vinok Worldance. Long-dedicated to presenting world dance as a dramatic cultural expression, the ensemble has garnered acclaim for its innovative approach. Romany Blues adds a dramatic storytelling element to its assemblage of choreographies and music from Europe and Asia. Subtle yet persistent, the dramatic arc provides an emotional momentum for the heart-stopping rhythms, exhilarating dances and the heart-piercing songs of the Gypsy culture. The result is a richly-imagined, passionately realized cultural and emotional tapestry.

Romany Blues also marks the debut of the company’s newest members, Lukáš Cabalka, Anton Konečný and Stanislav Giertl. Recently arrived from Slovakia. These three new members bring a wealth of experience and artistic depth to Vinok. They will be joined on stage by Vinok’s Artistic Director Doyle Marko, Executive Director Leanne Koziak, dancers Taisa Marko and Katie Zederayko and musicians John Calverly, William Cramer, Moni Mathew, and Dianne Tebby.

Horizon Stage is excited to present Vinok Worldance’s Romany Blues at 7:30 pm on Saturday, February 17, 2007. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and seniors. Call Ticketmaster or the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

“We left Vinok feeling a little dizzy with excitement. We are not about to forget Vinok very soon!"
Lynda Naden & the Grand Falls Windsor Dance Students - Newfoundland

“A wonderfully uplifting, joyful evening (that) left us wanting more!"
Anne Snyder - Pentiction, BC

"I felt as thought I have just been on a trip around the world."
Audience Member - Summerland, BC

Be sure to visit www.horizonstage.com and www.vinokworldance.ab.ca

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Edmonton Journal and Birdsell Grant Gardner Morck, Barristers & Solicitors

Audience Feedback: Daniel Packard

Did you see Comedian Daniel Packard's show Live Group Sex Therapy on January 20th?
Please let us know what you thought of Daniel and his performance!
Please note: Comments with offensive language will not be posted.

And the WINNER is...

Noreen Lindstrom from Barrhead, AB.
She has won our Country & Bluegrass CD package draw.
Congratulations Noreen!

Audience Feedback: Ian Tyson

Did you see any of Country Music Legend Ian Tyson's

concerts from January 10 - 14th?
Please let us know what you thought of the show!
Please note: Comments with offensive language will not be posted.

Incredibly hilarious show will change the way you think about sex.

Comedian Daniel Packard presents

Live Group Sex Therapy at Horizon Stage

Saturday, January 20

The battle of the sexes will rage on at Horizon Stage on Saturday, January 20, 2007. Join award-winning “Socio-Comedian”, Daniel Packard as he orchestrates a fascinating, spirited audience-based debate that pries open all those titillating truths and scary secrets we are not supposed to tell the other side, but need to. Men and women don’t connect as often as they should and it’s not just because of “Mars” and “Venus” differences. Until recently there has been a very tight lid on what each side can publicly say about the other and now with questions, answers and a whole lot of guts, Daniel Packard is going to set the record straight.

What make’s Daniel Packard’s Live Group Sex Therapy different from most stand up comedy routines is that he talks directly to the audience and wants the audience to speak directly back to him. This interactivity means that the show is more of a conversation than a monologue. Part talk-show host, part shrink and part incredibly funny guy, Daniel’s truly entertaining performance will have audience members of both sexes rolling in the aisles with laughter.

Performing around the world, Daniel was courted by Hollywood but has instead chosen to interact one on one with people in theatre, workshop and coaching sessions. Fueled with a slicing theory on how women can get the most out of men, he uses his Mechanical Engineering degree to scientifically deconstruct the science and psychology of humor and how the sexes interact with each other.

Horizon Stage is excited to present Daniel Packard in Live Group Sex Therapy at 7:30 pm on Saturday, January 20, 2007. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and seniors. Warning, the show contains adult content comedy and is not recommended for young children. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

“One of the funniest I’ve ever seen, ever!”
Paul Provenza - Creator of The Aristocrats

“I tend to be quite jaded about comedy. I can not

however say enough fine things about Daniel Packard.”
Richard Freedman – Oakland Tribune

“One of the most charismatic, passionate,

funny stand-up comics I’ve seen.

See him now while you can still afford good seats.”
The Vancouver Sun

“As a woman you don’t want to be enjoying what he’s saying.
But he’s so damn good you simply have no choice.”
Audra – Audience Member

‘Somebody is intelligently standing up for us.

You’ve got balls my friend.”
Kevin – Audience Member

Be sure to visit www.danielpackard.com to see video footage of Daniel’s show!

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Edmonton Journal, K-Rock and Birdsell Grant Gardner Morck Barristers & Solicitors

Kreskin is Sold Out

The Amazing Kreskin's show at Horizon Stage on Sunday, February 11, 2007 is now Sold Out. There are currently no plans to add a second performance.

Montreal Guitar Trio Master Class

Saturday, March 3
2:30 - 4 p.m.

Meet the members of Montreal Guitar Trio and receive one-on-one instruction and feedback from these incredibly- talented professional musicians.

Cost: $30 per person - includes one FREE ticket to Montreal Guitar Trio’s concert with opening act Rosette Guitar Duo at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 3 at 7:30 p.m.

Call 962-8995 to register or to purchase concert tickets.

6 slots available - individuals, duos or trios - so sign up early!

www.trioguitarsmontreal.com

Audience Feedback: A George Fox Christmas

Did you see A George Fox Christmas with Marlee Scott on December 15 or 16? We want to hear what you though about the concert & our venue. Please let us know!
Note: Comments with offensive language will not be posted.

George Fox Tickets Released

A few tickets have been released for the 7:30 p.m. performance of A George Fox Christmas with Marlee Scott on Saturday, November 16th.
There are also still some tickets left for the 2 p.m. matinee.
Call 962-8995 to order yours today!

Audience Feedback: Gary Fjellgaard & Valdy

Did you attend Gary Fjellgaard & Valdy's concert

at Horizon Stage on November 24 or 25?
If you did, please leave a comment telling us what you thought of the show, the stage, or anything else that made an impression on you.

Good or bad.
Please Note: Comments with offensive language will not be posted.

Audience Feedback - HOJA

Did you see a cappella group HOJA at Horizon Stage on Thursday, November 23?
What did you think of the group? Did you like our venue? Tell us what you thought!
Please Note: Comments with offensive language will not be posted.

Country Music Star George Fox will perform a third concert at Horizon Stage

With evening performances on Dec 15 & 16 already sold out Fox adds a matinee on the 16th.

If you’re a fan of Canadian country music star George Fox and you don’t already have tickets to one of his sold-out evening performances at Horizon Stage, never fear. George has added a 2 p.m. concert on Saturday, December 16. Because of the high demand for tickets A George Fox Christmas with Marlee Scott will now run once on December 15 and twice on December 16.
More than a dozen years after he left his family’s cattle ranch in Cochrane, Alberta George Fox is returning to his home province for a classic country Christmas. With numerous country music and Juno awards on his mantle, eight albums under his belt and a string of number-one hits, George has certainly made it to “the big time”. Still a down to earth kind of guy, George will ring in the holidays with classic carols and festive original pieces. Audiences can look forward to hearing such favourites as Silent Night, Six White Boomers and Three Little Pennies.
Joining George Fox on stage will be relative newcomer Marlee Scott. Born in Ontario, raised on Prince Edward Island and barely out of her teens, Marlee has already performed at the Big Valley Jamboree and the Merrit Mountain Music Festival. One of Global Country’s rising stars, her first single I Fall In Love Too Fast has received air-play across Canada.
Great seats are still available for the George Fox Christmas matinee at Horizon Stage on Saturday, December 16th. Tickets are just $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and seniors. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets before this show sells out too!


Be sure to visit: www.georgefox.com, www.marleescott.com & www.horizonstage.com

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Edmonton Journal, CFCW, Royal Inn Express and Birdsell Grant Gardner Morck Barristers & Solicitors

Audience Feedback: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie

Did you see the Horizon Players production of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie on November 16, 17 or 18? Do you have any comments about the show that you would like us to pass on to the Players?
Please Note: Comments with offensive language will not be posted.

See HOJA Video

To preview a cappella sensations HOJA on You Tube HERE
HOJA is performing at Horizon Stage on Thursday, November 23rd at 7:30 p.m.

Ian Tyson & Gary Fjellgaard & Valdy

All 5 of Ian Tyson's concerts in Jaunary are now sold out.
Both of Gary Fjellgaard & Valdy's concerts at the end of November are sold out.

High Energy A Cappella will Charm, Amuse and Amaze Audiences

HOJA scheduled to perform at Horizon Stage on November 23rd

Formed in the summer of 1998, high energy a cappella group HOJA (hoe-jah) originally hail from Saskatchewan. Brought together by a love of singing and performance, their passion can be easily seen the first second they step on stage. Favourites on the Edmonton Fringe and St Albert Children’s Festival outdoor stages, audiences of all ages will enjoy HOJA Up Close & Personal at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove on Thursday, November 23rd.

All of the sounds in HOJA’s live show and on their recordings are created using only their voices. Each of the group’s members sing a variety of different parts, including bass, lead vocals, tenor and baritone, vocal percussion, instrumental sounds such as guitars and trumpets, and assorted sound effects. Great harmonies, energetic choreography, and a diverse selection of repertoire are presented in a uniquely entertaining performance style.

HOJA’s songs span every style of music, from doo-wop to rock and from country to disco, nothing escapes the transition to a cappella music. Audiences will cheer when they hear Brown Eyed Girl (Van Morrison), Cecilia (Simon & Garfunkel), 500 Miles (The Proclaimers), Friends in Low Places (Garth Brooks), I’m a Believer (The Monkees), Sweet Dreams (The Eurythmics), Stayin’ Alive (The Bee Gees), Video Killed The Radio Star (The Buggles) and numerous other well know tunes. Peppering their sets with humour and wit, HOJA are guaranteed to charm and amuse music lovers with a wide variety of tastes.

HOJA has wasted no time in establishing itself as one of Canada’s hardest working bands. Currently in their ninth year of nation-wide touring, they have already recorded four full length CD’s, with sales totaling over 20,000 copies. Over 2,500 audiences from BC to Ontario have experienced HOJA. Group members may have changed throughout the years but the ensemble’s spirit and zest have stayed the same. Last seen at Horizon Stage in 2002, HOJA has since performed at schools in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain and all around the Edmonton area.

Horizon Stage is thrilled to present this talented and totally hip ‘boy band’. Don’t miss HOJA at Horizon Stage on Thursday, November 23rd at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for students and seniors. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

Be sure to visit: www.horizonstage.com & www.fatcatuniverse.com

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Edmonton Journal and Birdsell, Grant, Gardner, Morck Barristers & Solicitors.

Audience Feedback: Denise Djokic & David Jalbert

Did you see Denise Djokic (cello) and David Jalbert (piano) at Horizon Stage on Saturday, November 4th?
Did you enjoy the show?
What did you think of our venue?
Please Note: Comments with offensive language will not be posted.

Sponsor Name Change & Thank-you

Capital City Savings, sponsor of Horizon Stage's CKUA, "Live on Alberta Stage's" concert series, have officially changed their name to Servus Credit Union.
Servus will be Alberta's largest credit union with branches throughout Alberta, including Spruce Grove and Stony Plain."
We would like to thank all of our wonderful sponsors, especially local businesses like Servus Credit Union, Birdsell Grant Gardner Morck and Grove Pontiac!
Support the arts supporters - they are making a valuable contribution to their community!

Ian Tyson Ticket Update

A few tickets have just been released for Ian's Friday, January 12 performance.
His Thursday, January 11 show now has only single tickets available.

Audience Feedback: Lester Quitzau & Mae Moore

Did you see Lester Quitzau & Mae Moore at Horizon Stage on Friday, October 27th? We would like to hear what you thought of their show and our cabaret venue that night.
Please note: Comments with inappropriate language will not be posted.

Photos Taken At Family Portrait

Before every Family Matinee Horizon Stage offers FREE pre show activities for the kids in the lobby (sponsored by Grove Pontiac GMC). One of the activities we offered before Family Portrait on October 21 was actual digital Family Portraits that we later e-mailed. Below are just a few of the wonderful photos we took.

FREE tickets to classical music concert!!

Be one of the first 5 people to email hstage@sprucegrove.org with your contact information (name and phone number) and you will receive TWO free tickets to see Denise Djokic & David Jalbert at Horizon Stage on Saturday, November 4th!!!

George Fox Matinee Added

Due to popular demand, Horizon Stage has added a third George Fox Christmas with Marlee Scott concert at 2 p.m. on Satuday, December 16.
George's 7:30 performances are both sold out.
Tickets to the matinee are now on sale.
Call 962-8995 to order yours today!!

Denise Djokic & Davil Jalbert Programme

Saturday, November 4th – Horizon Stage

J.S. Bach: Sonata for viola da gamba
(1685 – 1750) & keyboard No. 2 in D major, BWV 1028
I. Adagio-Allegro
II. Andante
III. Allegro

D. Shostakovich: Prelude and Fugue Opus 87 #24 (for solo piano) (1906 – 1975)
G. Cassado: Suite for Solo Cello(1897 – 1966)
I. Preludio-Fantasia
II. Sardana (Danza)
III. Intermezzo e Danza Finale

Intermission

Alexina Louie: Bringing the Tiger Down from the Mountain II
(b 1949)

F. Chopin: Cello Sonata in G Minor Op.65(1810 – 1849)
I. Allegro moderato
II. Scherzo (Allegro con brio) III. Largo
IV. Finale (Allegro)

(The artists reserves the right to alter the programme)

Juno nominated classical duo will electrify audience in Spruce Grove

Denise Djokic (cello) and David Jalbert (piano) perform at Horizon Stage on November 4

One of the most captivating young artists of her generation, cellist, Denise Djokic, has thrilled audiences and critics worldwide with the passion, vigor, and sensitivity of her playing. Pianist, David Jalbert, is also a fiery young talent. With his dazzling stage presence, refined ear for music, exuberance and finesse, he, too, is an impressive performer. Touring as a part of Prairie Debut’s 2006/2007 roster of artists, Denise and David will grace Horizon Stage with their glowing warm tones and honest musical interpretations on Saturday, November 4th at 7:30 p.m.

Already the winners of two East Coast Music Awards, Denise and David’s CD Folklore was nominated for a Juno award in 2006. Released by the American label Allegro/Endeavour, the recording debuted in the number 15 slot on American Billboard Magazine’s classical chart. Denise and David have also each released solo CD’s and prior to Folklore they collaborated on a classical duet album for Sony Records.

As a recitalist and chamber musician, Denise Djokic has performed throughout North America and Europe. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, into a large musical family, Denise is a graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Music's "Young Artist Program". She has been a recipient of several grants and prizes from the Canada Council for the Arts, was named by Maclean's magazine as one of "25 Young Canadians who are changing our World", and one of "Canada's 30 most Powerful Women" by ELLE magazine.

David Jalbert has artist diplomas from the Julliard School in New York and The Glen Gould Professional School in Toronto. He received his Masters Degree from the Université de Montréal when he was 21 and has performed in Canada, the United States, Mexico and Europe. His fluid fingers make the piano ‘sing’ and his mastery of the keyboard has garnered accolades from critics and audiences alike.

Horizon Stage is thrilled to present these two outstanding young artists. Their program will include music by Bach, Chopin, Shostakovich and Cassado. Enjoy two classical sonatas, a prelude, a suite and Bringing the Tiger Down from the Mountain II by contemporary composer Alexina Louie, Up Close and Personal at 7:30 pm on Saturday, November 4. Tickets to Denise Djokic and David Jalbert are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and seniors. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

“(Djokic is) considered to be the best up-and-coming cellist in the world.”
Salina Journal

“Jalbert dazzles with skill, style and taste…. with all the exuberance a listener could want ”
Toronto Star

Be sure to visit www.denisedjokic.com, www.davidjalbert.com, www.prairiedebut.com & www.horizonstage.com

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, Canada Council, The Edmonton Journal, CKUA Radio , Royal Inn Express, Birdsell, Grant, Gardner, Morck Barristers & Solicitors, Meyers Norris Penny and Capital City Savings Community Council of Spruce Grove and Stony Plain.

Audience Feedback: John Reischman & The Jaybirds

Did you see John Reischman & The Jaybirds with Restless Lester on Saturday, October 21st? We would like to hear what you thought of their show and our venue that night.
Please note: Comments with inappropriate language will not be posted.

Audience Feedback: Family Portrait

Did you see Sursaut Dance Company's Family Matinee - Family Portrait on Saturday, October 21st? We would like to hear what you thought of the show, the pre-show activities and our venue that afternoon.
Please note: Comments with inappropriate language will not be posted.

Breast Show raises money for CBCF - Thank-you donors!!

The Silent Auction at The Breast Show on November 4th raised $2023 for The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation!! More money from this wonderful Horizon Stagelighters event will also be donated once expenses are calculated.

Many, many thanks to the following individuals and businesses who donated silent auction items, door prizes and catering to this incredible evening...
AMA Insurance
Spruce Grove Saints
Wabamun Credit Union
City of Spruce Grove
Shelly Tunny
Creations by Gail
Laberge Engraving
Scrapbook Oasis
A Scrappers Delight
Royal Inn Express Hotel
Carrie-Lynn’s Esthetics
Alta-Fab Structures LTD
Kiwi Landscaping
ABC Country –Stony
Story Teller Bookstore
PH Safety – Pat Maloney
Mary Kay – Amber Gagnon
Home & Gifts – Rose Horan
Tim Hortons – Corporate
Tim Hortons – Spruce Grove
Creative Memories – Kristal Saunders
Chatters – Westland Market Mall
Pampered Chief – Corrie Priebe
Spa Sensations – Tricia Haryett
Shoppers Drugmart – Stony Plain
Westland Market Mall Merchants: Athlete’s Word, Bags & Luggage, Cleo & Bootlegger
Arbonne International – Pat Anderson
Stained Glass Workshop - Villeneuve
McDonalds – Stony/Spruce
Kathy Meaney
Ledcor
East Side Marios
Salon Montage
Panda Flowers
Expocrete
Zender Ford
Curves
Gifts & Gadgets
IGA – Spruce Grove
Donna Haryett
K-ROCK
The Big Earl
P & K Catering
Sharleen Horchuk
Liquor on Macleod
Kari-Lynn’s Boutique
Romantic Notions
Sign Cellar
Horizon Stage

Audience Feedback: The Breast Show

Did you see The Breast Show on Thursday, October 19th? We would like to hear what you thought of their show and our venue that night.
Please note: Comments with inappropriate language will not be posted.

Upcoming shows filling up quickly

Are you waiting to purchase tickets to your favourite artist? Some shows have only limited seats remaining...
The Breast Show (Oct 19) - only singles left
Lester Quitzau & Mae Moore (Oct 27) - SOLD OUT
George Fox (Dec 15 & 16) - only singles left
Ian Tyson
Jan 10 - seats available
Jan 11 - seats available
Jan 12 - only singles left
Jan 13 - only singles left
Jan 14 - only singles left

Audience Feedback: Sons of Maxwell

Did you see Sons of Maxwell's concert on Friday, October 6th? We would like to hear what you thought of their show and our venue that night.
Please note: Comments with inappropriate language will not be posted.

Toe-tapping, knee-slapping, foot-stomping bluegrass

Restless Lester opens for John Reischman and The Jaybirds on Saturday, October 21st

Four years of touring across North America and Europe, three critically-acclaimed albums and a Canadian Juno nomination have established John Reischman and the Jaybirds as one of the top bands in bluegrass music. With a style that is at once old and new, they combine vintage gems, original songs and trademark original instrumentals for a dynamic and refreshing sound. Performing around a single microphone, their musical talent, inspiring material and heartfelt vocals, will generate a concert on Saturday, October 21st, that is not to be missed!

As one of music world’s top-ranked mandolin players and composers, veteran artist John Reischman is renowned for his exquisite taste, tone and impeccable musicianship. The rest of the Jaybirds are veterans as well and include Jim Nunally on guitar and vocals, Trisha Gagnon on bass and vocals, Nick Hornbuckle on 5-string banjo and Greg Spatz on fiddle. Based out of Vancouver, BC the band are regulars at bluegrass and folk festivals across North America. They were last seen here at the Edmonton Folk Fest in 2004 and at Horizon Stage in 2003.

Opening this spectacular evening of bluegrass will be Edmonton-based favourites, Restless Lester. Bass player Keith Burgess of Jerusalem Ridge, Bruce Blair (fiddle), Steve Fischer (guitar) and Brad Lindberg (banjo) travel the musical gamut from the Stanley Brothers to Elvis to Bob Wills to Louden Wainwright III. Formed in 2002, Restless Lester just released their first CD, Endless Skies.

Horizon Stage is excited to present what is sure to be a rip-roaring evening of down-home bluegrass fun! See John Reischman and The Jaybirds with Restless Lester at 7:30 pm on Saturday, October 21. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and seniors. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

“Though Reischman is the leader and front man, he gives (everyone) plenty of room to shine, and together they produce music that is seamlessly excellent and rewarding. ”
Sing Out! Magazine

“Top-notch musicians and singers deliver an unusual repertoire of originals,
bluegrass classics, and old-time music.”
Acoustic Guitar Magazine

Be sure to visit http://susancrowe.com/johnr/jrjaybirds.htm & www.stevefishermusic.ca/restless_lester.html

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Edmonton Journal, CKUA Radio, Royal Inn Express and Birdsell, Grant, Gardner, Morck Barristers & Solicitors

Explore a family’s dreams and desires through theatrical dance.

Sursaut Dance Company presents Family Portrait at Horizon Stage on October 21

How would the hopes and dreams of your family look if you expressed them through dancing? Take a glimpse inside an apparently ordinary family’s imaginations and memories with the dance-theatre production Family Portrait Up Close and Personal at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove on Saturday, October 21.

Family Portrait presents a picture of an average family; but behind appearances are their dreams, thoughts, desires and memories. Performed by Sursaut Dance Company from Sherbrooke, Quebec, Family Portrait is a dance-theatre production in which poetry and humour go hand in hand and where realism and fantasy overlap. Images of great beauty, spellbinding choreographies and unusual and engaging characters make it a magical show that will amaze children and adults alike.

Founded in 1985, Sursaut is a contemporary dance company devoted to the creation and production of shows for young and family audiences. Artistic director and choreographer, Francine Châteauvert, collaborates closely with dancer and general manager, Adam Dymburt, forming the heart of the company. Their pieces have been presented from coast to coast in Canada and outside the country. Last seen in Spruce Grove in 2002 when they performed the charming Les Excentriques, Sursaut's joyful and touching creations thrill spectators young and old alike, everywhere they go.

The second presentation in Horizon Stage’s 2006/2007 Family Matinee Series, Family Portrait is whimsical and fun. Let your children experience the wonder and beauty in the art of dance at 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 21. Free pre-show activities start in the theatre lobby at 1:00 p.m. Tickets are just $10.00 for all ages. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

“… luminous scenes, swathed in the most beautiful music, in a simple and appealing set,
without being flashy - just like a child's poem.”La Tribune (Sherbrooke)


Be sure to visit http://www.sursaut.ca

Special Thanks to the sponsors for this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, Home Town Living, Big Earl & Grove Pontiac GMC

Note: Family Portrait is also running at The Arden Theatre on Sunday, October 22 at 1 & 3:30 p.m.

FREE Tickets to Sons of Maxwell

Be one of the first 5 people to email hstage@sprucegrove.org with your contact information (name and phone number) and you will receive TWO free tickets to Sons of Maxwell at Horizon Stage on Friday, October 6th!!!

Audience Feedback: The Checkerboard Guy

Did you see The Checkerboard Guy's Family Matinee on Saturday, September 30? We would like to hear what you thought of his show and our venue and pre-show activities that afternoon.
Please note: Comments with inappropriate language will not be posted.

Sons of Maxwell bring their Celtic/Country Sound to Spruce Grove

East Coast siblings return to Horizon Stage on Friday, October 6th

Last seen at Horizon Stage in February of 2003, Halifax-based brothers Dave and Don Carroll, aka Sons of Maxwell, have certainly kept themselves busy over the past three and a half years! With a new CD under their belts (Sunday Morning) and a second East Coast Music Award (2006 Country Recording of the Year) they reached #83 on CMT’s top 100 fan favourites of 2005. Their tours have taken them from Germany to China to the Dominican Republic, around Eastern Canada and now back to the west where they will perform at Horizon Stage on Friday, October 6.
Called “a cross between Great Big Sea, the Barenaked Ladies and The Everly Brothers”, Sons of Maxwell have been stretching their country roots. Their sound, in fact, has been described as a Celtic/Country cross with a little bit of pop and folk tossed in. Performing together for over 13 years, Dave and Don’s on-stage sibling interplay is warm, charming and often downright hilarious. Their unique vocal styles and harmonies mix with rich guitar textures, bodhran drumbeats and a stellar back-up band to energize and entertain. At each concert they thrill established fans and impress new admirers alike.
Winners of 2000’s Nova Scotia Group of The Year and 2002’s East Coast Music Award in the Roots/Traditional category, the brothers grew up in Northern Ontario, but have made their adult homes in the Maritimes. Dave writes most of their music and his thought provoking, original lyrics have brought both laughter and tears to listeners. Sunday Morning is their eighth full-length music release with their new single ‘Uphill Battle’ recently hitting the airwaves last January.
The first presentation in Horizon Stage’s 2006/2007’s regular concert series, Sons of Maxwell will “do it all’ by entertaining audience members of all ages and musical tastes. Don’t miss their eagerly anticipated return to Horizon Stage at 7:30 pm on Friday, October 6. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and seniors. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

"A duo of brothers from the Maritimes is proving to be the pair to watch on the horizon of success in Canada"
Raymond Arsenault, The Journal-Pioneer (Summerside, PEI)

" ... great energy, impeccable musicianship, intelligent and tightly crafted lyrics
... this band's headed for The Bigtime!”
Tom Wilson (Calgary's AM 1060 CKMX)

Be sure to visit www.horizonstage.com & www.sonsofmaxwell.com

Special thanks to the sponsors of this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Edmonton Journal, Royal Inn Express and Birdsell, Grant, Gardner, Morck Barristers and Solicitors

The Checkerboard Guy brings his outdoor show indoors

Comic daredevil will amaze and entertain the young and young at heart on Saturday, September 30.

He was a hit at this summer’s Spruce Grove Street Performers Festival. He’s been wowing audiences at the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival for many years. He was a staple on the outdoor stages at Edmonton Fringe in the 1990’s. If you haven’t caught The Checkerboard Guy’s show yet, what are you waiting for? If you have been entertained by his outdoor antics, then now’s your chance to see him shine on an indoor stage. That’s right, The Checkerboard Guy, aka David Aiken, will be Up Close and Personal at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove on Saturday, September 30.
With hilarious twists built into such stunts as The Six-Foot Unicycle of Death, The Tight Rope of Death and his signature piece, The Flaming Leap of Death, The Checkerboard Guy is known around the globe as a Comic Daredevil! Over two decades worth of experience manipulating everything from flaming torches to thirteenth-century battle axes to stinky shoes -- often while balancing on top of unicycles, tight ropes or unsupported eight-foot tall aluminum ladders -- has made this Vancouver native one of the best street performers in the country.
Crediting his success with the fact that he loves what he does, David Aiken’s joy for making people laugh transcends culture and language. The fact that he can do his show entirely in English, French and Japanese and dabbles in Spanish and Korean also helps. In the past twenty years he has performed at World Expos in Osaka, Japan in Seville, Spain and in Tae Jon, Korea. He represented North America on the inaugural World Street Festival tour in Australia and performed for the Prime Minister of Canada.
The first presentation in Horizon Stage’s 2006/2007 Family Matinee Series, The Checkerboard Guy is whimsical and fun. Like a live action Simpson’s episode, his show will appeal to children of all ages! Get ready to gaze in amazement, gasp in awe, and giggle until your sides hurt at 2:00 pm on Saturday, September 30. Free pre-show activities for kids start in the theatre lobby at 1:00 p.m. Tickets are just $10.00 for all ages. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

"The strength of the man is his genuinely witty sense of humour "
Craig Spencer - The Sunshine Press (Sechelt, BC)

"This Guy walks a fine line between alternative theatre and sickly-sweet Disney material
somehow managing to appeal to both little Joey and the jaded Gen Xer”
Tom Zillich - The Westender (Vancouver, BC)

Be sure to visit http://www.horizonstage.com/ & www.thecheckerboardguy.com

Special Thanks to the sponsors for this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, Home Town Living & Grove Pontiac GMC

We Love CKUA

CKUA will be sponsoring and recording five Horizon Stage artists in 2006/2007 Season for their Live On Alberta Stage's concert series.
The performances that they will be taping for future broadcast are...

John Reischman & The Jaybirds w/Reastless Lester - October 21
Lester Quitzau & Mae Moore - October 27
Denise Djokic & David Jalbert - November 4
Gary Fjellgaard & Valdy - November 25 & 26
Ian Tyson - January 10-14

Get Involved at Horizon Stage!

Are you interested in learning more about music and theatre? Would you like to work backstage, usher or act? Are you interested in finding out just how an arts facility is run? Join one of Horizon Stage’s Volunteer Programs and you can do just that! New volunteers are always welcome with the Horizon Players, Horizon Stagelighters, Horizon Stage Tech Team and Theatre Advisory Board.
As a Horizon Stage Volunteer you will develop new skills, see your favorite shows for FREE or at discount prices, receive regular newsletters, attend fun and fabulous events and work with other interesting members of your community. There are opportunities available for anyone aged 12 and up. Call the Box Office 962-8995 today and ask how you can get involved!

CD Winner!

Congratulations Yvonne J. winner of Horizon Stage's 2005/2006 e-mail list draw!
Yvonne is now the proud ower of 5 new CD's from selected past Horizon Stage artists.

New Show - The Checkerboard Guy

Saturday, September 30 - 2 p.m.
Family Matinee – Comic Daredevil
Get ready to gaze in amazement, gasp in awe, and giggle until your sides hurt!
David Aiken, aka ‘The Checkerboard Guy’, is an outdoor Fringe and Street Performers Festival favourite. Performing around the world for over two decades, this ‘comic daredevil’ manipulates everything from flaming torches and thirteenth-century battle-axes to stinky shoes, all while balancing on top of unicycles, stilts, tight-ropes or unsupported eight-foot tall aluminum ladders. Like a live-action Simpsons episode, Checkerboard Guy’s show will appeal to children of all ages!
http://www.checkerhead.com/

$30 Family Matinee Package (4 shows) & $10 Single Tickets
Call 962-8995

Popular kids entertainers cancel their show

Children’s entertainers Sharon & Bram have cancelled their September 30th performances at Horizon Stage for ‘personal’ reasons. Also canceling shows in two nearby communities, the artists had scheduling conflicts.
Horizon Stage has been working hard to fill the gap that has been left in their 4 show Family Matinee Series. Hopes of Fred Penner have fallen through as he is now booked at another Edmonton area theatre.

Audience Feedback: Canada Day/Street Fest

Did you attend Spruce Grove's Canada Day & Street Performers Festival on July 1 & 2 at The Spruce Grove Composite High School Sports Field?
What did you think of the event as a whole?
Did you enjoy the artists who performed?
What did you think of the vendors who were on site?
Let us know what you liked and disliked.
We're already starting to work on 2007's festival...

2006/2007 Stagelighter Sponsored Shows

Each year The Horizon Stagelighters sponsor 3 shows in Horizon Stage's season.
This year they have decided to sponsor 4!

The Breast Show - October 19 (a fundraiser for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation)
John Reischman & The Jaybirds - October 21
Gary Fjellgaard & Valdy - November 24 & 25
The Amazing Kreskin - February 11

Thank-you Horizon Stagelighters!

Happy first day of summer everyone!!

2006/2007 Season On Sale

Horizon Stage's 2006/2007 Season goes on sale Tuesday, June 20 at 10 a.m.

The Checkerboard Guy: Sat. Sept. 30 , 2 pm
Sons of Maxwell: Fri. Oct. 6, 7:30 pm
The Breast Show: Thurs. Oct. 19, 7:30 pm
Sursaut - Family Portrait: Sat. Oct. 21, 2 pm
John Reischman & The Jaybirds & Restless Lester: Sat. Oct. 21, 7:30 pm
Lester Quitzau & Mae Moore: Fri. Oct 27, 7:30 pm
Denise Djokic & David Jalbert: Sat. Nov. 4, 7:30 pm
HOJA: Thurs, Nov 23, 7 :30 pm
Gary Fjellgaard & Valdy: Fri. & Sat., Nov. 24 & 25, 7:30 pm
A George Fox Christmas: Fri. & Sat., Dec 15 & 16, 7:30 pm
Ian Tyson: January 10 -13, 7:30 pm & January 14, 2 pm
Daniel Packard: Sat. Jan. 20, 7:30 pm
The Frog Prince: Sat. Feb 10, 2 pm
The Amazing Kreskin: Sun. Feb. 11, 7 :30 pm
Vinok - Romany Blues: Sat. Feb. 17, 7: 30 pm
Montreal Guitar Trio & The Rosette Guitar Duo: Sat. March 3, 7:30 pm
Tomas Kubinek: Sun. March 4, 2 pm

For bios and more informations visit www.horizonstage.com
Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995.

Sing, pray and worship together

Join your fellow citizens at an outdoor Ecumenical Church Service on Sunday, July 2 at 11 a.m.
Led by Reverend Cameron Burns, and featuring a community choir conducted by Vern Roth, it will be a service of prayer, hymn and thanksgiving for the country we live in.
Location: Spruce Grove Composite High School Sports Field, 1000 Calahoo Road.

Stay and watch Family Entertainer Norman Foote’s FREE concert at noon & The Street Performers Festival at 1 p.m.

Bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on.

AUDITIONS!

The Horizon Players announce auditions for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and A Few Good Men.

Looking for twelve to fifteen girls ages 12 – 20.

You will be asked to read from a provided script. You may also perform a short monologue if you have one prepared.

Audition Dates: Wednesday, June 7, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
& Sunday, June 11, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Audition Location: Horizon Stage

To guarantee an audition please call 962-8995 to register.

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie will run at Horizon Stage November 16, 17 & 18, 2006.

No experience necessary!


Adults and young men over the age of 16 may also audition for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and A Few Good Men.

Adult Audition Dates: Sunday, June 11, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
& Monday, June 12, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Audition Location: Horizon Stage

To guarantee an audition please call 962-8995 to register.

A Few Good Men will run at Horizon Stage March 22-31, 2007.

If you have any questions please call Horizon Player’s Artistic Director, Richard Winnick at 432-9278.
www.horizonplayers.com

Volunteers Needed July 1 & 2

Are you looking for something interesting to do on the Canada Day long weekend?
Do you want to support your community and have fun at the same time?
Are you an fan of jugglers, clowns, sword swallowers, daredevils, a cappella singers, blues harmonica players, country music star Patricia Conroy or children's entertainer Norman Foote?
If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions then you should volunteer for the 6th annual Spruce Grove Street performers Festival and Canada Day Weekend on July 1 & 2.
The shifts are short (nothing longer than 4 hours), the benefits are good (snacks and beverages, a free gift, and our eternal gratitude) and best of all you will get to be an important part of an extremely fun event.
Currently we are looking to fill positions on our Information Tent, Environmental Crew and Parking Attendant teams.
Call Kerri at 962-7634 ext 170 for more information.

Drama Program Update

Rhyme, Sing, Act & Play and Readin' Ritin' & Rockin' are now sold out.

2006 Summer Drama Programs

The Wizard’s Apprentice Puppet Workshop
Dates: July 4 & 6
Location: Horizon Stage
Ages: 6 - 9
Time: 1 – 4 pm
Cost: $60
Program #: 15015
Put on a puppet play in just two days. Learn about various types of puppets and make some that you can take home too! Children will work together, using puppets to create a variety of characters, make props and costumes and rehearse 'The Wizard's Apprentice'. The show will be presented at 3:30 p.m. on July 6 for parents and friends to see and enjoy!
Instructors: Lynette Maurice & Cindi Zuby

Rhyme, Sing, Act & Play
Dates: July 10-13
Location: Horizon Stage
Time: 1 – 3 pm
Ages: 5 – 8
Cost : $60
Program #: 15021
Learn new rhymes, sing your favourite movement-based songs, play simple drama games, learn the basics of role-playing and have lots of fun!
Instructors: Gaia Willis Owen & Kerri Gibson Loranger

Readin’ Ritin’ & Rockin’
Dates: July 3 - 7 & 10 - 14
Location: Horizon Stage
Time: 9:30 am - 12:30 pm (note: July 14 will be 9:30 am - 3:30 pm)
Ages: 9 - 13
Cost: $185
Program #: 15022
If you love to act, sing and dance in front of an audience then this is the camp for you!
In two weeks students will rehearse the light musical production Readin’ Ritin & Rockin, ending with a presentation for their family and friends in the afternoon of the Friday, July 14.
Instructors: Kelly Hymanyk & Maureen Melnyk

Improv for Teens & Adults
Date: Saturday, July 8
Location: Horizon Stage
Time: 10 am – 1 pm
Ages: 13 & up
Cost: $25
Program #: 15016
This 3 hour intense workshop covers all the basics and some intermediate skills including characters, listening, offers, blocking and choices. Players will play through well-known game exercises with a stop and go format, in a group and/or one-on-one, to present the behind the scenes breakdown of successful Improv performing.
Instructor: Paul Wallace www.paulwallace.com

Registration Starts on Monday, May 15th
Call The Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 or visit us in City Hall.
Horizon Stage is located at 1001 Calahoo Road, attached to Spruce Grove Composite High School.

Spirit of The People: Audience Feedback

Did you attend
Spirit of The People - A Celebration of Aboriginal Talent
on Sunday, April 23?
If you did we would like to know what you though of the displays, the show and the night as a whole. Please leave a comment.

Note: Comments will be moderated, inappropriate language will not be allowed.

2nd Show Added

Allberta Country Music Legends
Sunday, April 30th
- 2pm show SOLD OUT
- 7pm show added GREAT SEATS AVAILABLE!
Call 962-8995

Alberta Country Music Legends

The Association of Canadian Country Music Legends is dedicated to presenting, preserving, promoting and protecting traditional country music. They are excited to be bringing their traditional Alberta Country Music Legends show back to Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove on Sunday, April 30th at 2:00 p.m. This year’s show will feature Bev Munro, Joyce Smith, Randy Hollar, Alfie Myhre, Rodeo Wind and special guest Pete Hicks.

Bev Munro has written and recorded several singles, cassettes, and CD’s. He was a fixture at CFCW radio for 30 years. His knee-slappers have made him a hit everywhere. In 1959 Bev was named Mr. DJ U.S.A. In September 2002 he was inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in the DJ category, at the CCMA Awards, and in 2005, Bev received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Alberta Men of Country Music.

International touring and recording artist Joyce Smith has released 6 albums, several singles, cassettes and CD’s. She has performed at the Grand Old Opry in Nashville, Tenn., throughout Canada, the United States, Germany, Denmark and Austria. She was inducted into the Alberta Country Music Hall of Fame in 1991. In 2000 she won the prestigious ‘Bev Munro Award of Dedication’, and in 2004 was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Alberta Women of Country Music.

Randy Hollar is a good ol’ country boy and a fan of Wilf Carter, paying a marvellous tribute by singing his songs as Wilf did. Randy owns a pair of Wilf’s chaps, a pair of spurs, and all of Wilf’s records.

Fiddler supreme Alfie Myhre has won the Grand North American Championship twice, as well as dozens of other championships. He has toured in Europe, Asia and the USA and has several records and cassettes out. No matter what type of fiddle tune you want to hear, or dance to, you will find it in Alfie’s collection.

Alberta’s Encyclopaedia of Country Music Pete Hicks has forgotten more than most of us ever knew about Country Music. Born in the Peace River country Pete is just starting his 25th year at CFCW and heading into the 12 season of his popular ‘Classic Country’ show. He has also put his dulcet tones to work writing and recording songs, recently releasing a brand new CD, titled ‘Stories’. Pete’s ever-ready smile and warm handshake are in evidence wherever he goes. His popularity and ability were honored in 2003, when he won the coveted ‘Bev Munro Award’.

Alberta’s finest traditional country music band, Rodeo Wind, will be the backing everyone up on April 30th. The band’s members are George Myren on bass, Richard Chernesky on lead guitar, Darryl Campbell on Steel Guitar and vocals and Hal Todd on drums and vocals.

See the Alberta Country Music Legends at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove at 2:00 pm on Sunday, April 30th. Tickets for the show are $25.00 for all ages. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information or to purchase your tickets soon!

Special Thanks to CFCW for sponsoring this event.

Audience Feedback: Seesaw

Did you see Green Thumb Theatre's play Seesaw at Horizon Stage on March 25? If you did we would really like to know what you thought of it. Leave a comment telling us what you liked or disliked.
Please Note: Comments will be moderated. Inappropriate language will not be tolerated.

The HORIZON PLAYERS Present:

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Book and Lyrics by Howard Ashman
Music by Alan Menken
Based on the film by Roger Corman, Screenplay by Charles Griffith
Originally Produced by the WPA Theatre (Kyle Renick, Producing Director)
Originally Produced at the Orpheum Theatre, New York City by the WPA Theatre, David Geffen, Cameron Macintosh and the Shubert Organization

Directed by Richard Winnick
Musical Direction by Sally Hunt
Musical Staging by Joshua Semchuk

March 30-31 & April 1, 6, 7, 8, 2006
Horizon Stage, Spruce Grove
1001 Calahoo Road

“You’ll shriek with laughter as people get gobbled up!” -The Edmonton Journal

“Little Shop of Horrors is as good as it gets.” -The Edmonton Sun

Spruce Grove- Horizon Players is pleased to present the classical campy Broadway smash, Little Shop of Horrors, from the people that brought you the hit Horizon Players production, Jesus Christ Superstar. This show promises to be a fun, high-energy production accompanied by a live band blasting catchy, recognizable tunes.

Little Shop of Horrors is the lovable loser-who-gets-the-girl-in-the-end story, but with a really, big twist, and a talking, singing plant. That eats people. The musical is famous for its hilarious and catchy tunes supported by a greek-chorus-like trio of street urchins.

Seymour Krelborn has worked all his life at Mushnik’s Flower Shop on Skid Row. He’s a dead-end guy in a dead-end job in the dead-end part of town. (more)

One day he happens along a strange and wonderful plant and everything in his life starts to get better; the shop thrives, the girl he loves starts loving him back and he becomes world-famous! Nothing could ever be bad again! That is, until he learns what it will take to keep the plant alive…

Little Shop of Horrors features an amazing, talented cast and artistic team of dedicated community theatre enthusiasts and volunteers. John Evans (previously seen at Horizon Stage in Jesus Christ Superstar) stars as Seymour along with Carolyn Zahovkis (Jesus Christ Superstar) as his love, Audrey. The cast also features Ross Crocket as Orin Scrivelo, D.D.S.; Andrea Graham as Chiffon; Richard Green as Wino/Snip; Kat Hanington as Audrey II (Body); Kristin Johnston as Crystal; Curtis Knecht as Mushnik; Kara Little as Ronnette; Dean McQuay as Wino/ Luce/Customer; Daren Park as Audrey II (Voice); Evan Westfal as Wino/Bernstein.

Horizon Players Artistic Director and Director of the show, Richard Winnick (Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?) is joined on the artistic team by Musical Director/Conductor/Piano Sally Hunt (Jesus Christ Superstar); Musical Stager Joshua Semchuk (Jesus Christ Superstar); Lighting Designer/Design Consultant Kat Hannington (Jesus Christ Superstar); Costumer Jody Boylan (Horizon Players debut); Assistant Musical Director Curtis Knecht (Jesus Christ Superstar); Stage Manager Megan Lindmark (The Melville Boys).

The Little Shop Band brings together the talents of Marc Andy (Bass); Dan Clark (Trumpet); Lorne Dmitruk (Trombone); Gary Gilham (Keyboard/Rehearsal Pianist); Tim Maskell (Guitar); Scott McDonald (Drums); Dan McNeill (Trumpet).

Composer Alan Menkin and Librettist Howard Ashman decided to musicalize the film Little Shop of Horrors, starring Jack Nicholson, after their stage adaptation of Kurt Vonnegut’s novel God Bless You. They used the pop-music sound of the early 60’s ‘all-girl groups’ such as the Shirelles as the inspiration for the score, not the Supremes as many people think.

Little Shop of Horrors opened July 27, 1982 at the Off-Off-Broadway WPA Theatre, causing over thirty producers to bid for the rights for an extended Off-Broadway run. The show received seven Drama Desk Awards and ran for 2,209 performances. The show is the fifth-longest run among Off-Broadway musicals.

Little Shop of Horrors runs March 30-31 and again on April 1, 6, 7 and 8, 2006 at the Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove, 1001 Calahoo Road, only 20 minutes from Edmonton. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. nightly. For tickets please call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962.8995

Little Shop of Horrors was originally Directed by Howard Ashman with Musical Staging by Edie Cowan. Little Shop of Horrors is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized performance materials are supplied by Music Theatre International, 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY, 10019.

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For more information please contact:

Joshua Semchuk
780.480.6697
Joshua_semchuk@hotmail.com

HORIZON PLAYERS
Box 3345, Stn Main, Spruce Grove. Alberta. T7X 3A6
www.horizonplayers.com

Audience Feedback: Kleztory

Did you see Kleztory at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 11th?
If you did we would love to receive your feedback.
What did you like, love or hate about their show?
Please Note: All comments will be moderated. Foul language or offensive material will not be tolerated.

Watch the play, stay for the pizza party

Seesaw teaches kids about self-esteem and standing up for themselves.

Meet four ordinary kids coping with the ups and downs of their lives; Paige, a popular yet insecure girl, Adam, the tough bully and budding artist, shy Josh who learns magic tricks in order to become invisible, and Charla, the new girl who wants to be everybody's friend.

The “bonus” production in Horizon Stage’s 2005/2006 Family Matinee Series, Seesaw by Dennis Foon is all about self-esteem, fitting in, and "doing the right thing". Produced and performed by Vancouver’s Green Thumb Theatre the play is aimed primarily at 8-12 year olds.

Seesaw helps young people examine the influences they see in pop culture (violence, body image, materialism) and how those things affect the way they interact with their schoolmates and parents. It also examines the various types of bullying behavior – from the physical to the emotional. Using actors and an array of puppets it is a fast paced play that explores the shifting nature of relationships and the value and importance of friendships. It focuses on the creative mind and imagination as crucial parts of learning and growing.
Founded in 1975, Green Thumb Theatre produces plays of high artistic quality that explore social issues relevant to the lives of children, youth and young adults. They aim to provide theatre that celebrates the language and stories of today’s generation and culture in order to encourage tolerance, debate and critical thinking. In their 30 seasons of touring and main-stage shows, Green Thumb Theatre has performed over 15,000 times to 4,000,000 people in every Canadian province and 2 territories, in 36 American states, Ireland, England, Scotland, the Netherlands, Germany, Sweden, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico.

See Seesaw Up Close and Personal at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 25. Tickets for the play are $8.00 for all ages. And, kids aged 9-12 can also take part in the Seesaw Pizza Party for just $12.00 (price includes their ticket to the play). At the Pizza Party children will see the show, participate in a talkback with the cast, eat pizza, play games and do crafts from 1:30 – 5:00 pm. Call the Horizon Stage Box Office at 962-8995 for more information on Seesaw and the Seesaw Pizza Party. Purchase your tickets soon!

“We really liked (Seesaw). We all had a good time. Many parts were funny.”Mrs. Gironda’s Class, St. Gabriel The Archangel School

“My favorite part was when Paige's little brother turned into a devil.”
Tianna, Grade 3, Ridgeway Elementary School

Be sure to visit www.horizonstage.com & www.greenthumb.bc.ca

Special Thanks to the sponsors for this event: The Alberta Foundation For The Arts, Canadian Heritage, Royal Inn Express, Home Town Living & Grove Pontiac

Audience Feedback: Fubuki Daiko

Did you see Japanese drummers Fubuki Daiko at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 4 or at one of their school shows the week before? If you did we'd love to receive your feedback!
Enter a comment about what you liked, loved, or hated about their concert.
Note: Comments will be moderated, please refrain from using inappropriate language.