Enjoy a Wild Night of Rockabilly, Western Swing, and Honky-Tonk

Cousin Harley hits Horizon Stage and takes on Spruce Grove on April 12

Cousin Harley is the high energy hillbilly persona of Vancouver musician and singer Paul Pigat. With a hard-earned reputation for delivering everything from hot-rod rockabilly to foot-stomping vintage country and western swing, Cousin Haley’s concerts are high energy, wild, and crazy fun! Adding elements of traditional swing, classic jump blues, roots, and jazz to their music they have a truly unique and invigorating sound. Spruce Grove is the only Edmonton area stop on Cousin Harley’s Spring Thaw Tour and their hillbilly squonk, honky-tonk, and cow punk rippers, are going to excite and energize the audience at Horizon Stage on Sunday, April 12.

Called the "Motorhead of Rockabilly" by a delirious fan after a particularly raucous show in Holland, there's nothing tentative about Cousin Harley's pedal to the metal approach to this stripped down form of rock and roll. To paraphrase the old blues song, Paul Pigat’s got so many tunes he don’t know which way to jump. So instead he simply gives into his muse and exuberantly follows wherever it carries him, cranking up the energy so high that no one can resist dancing.

From solos raw enough to melt the door off an old Cadillac, to delicate etudes, Paul is a guitarist who can truly play it all. He is partial to the Merle Travis style of picking and his virtuoso guitar skills set him apart as one of the few guitarists able to do Merle’s style justice. Paul’s superb talent on the guitar is easily matched by his vocal abilities and his warm baritone is equally at home singing flat-out rock songs or crooning relaxed country swing. Is he a genteel sideman, unrepentant redneck, sensitive singer/songwriter, classical composer, or a blend of all the above? Listen long enough and you'll realize it really doesn't matter what he plays, it’s all superb.

Rounding out Cousin Harley are Keith Picot on upright bass, and Jesse Cahill on drums. With a hard hitting slap style, all his own, Keith can drive a beat like the devil, then equally and effortlessly draw out the sweet tones of a saint. In 2011 he won a Maple Blues Award for being Canada’s Best Bass Player. Jesse Cahill has become one of the busiest drummers on the Canadian music scene, working with jazz legends and performing, touring, and recording with many internationally recognized artists. His playing can be heard regularly on CBC Radio One and Two and he has been a featured guest and performer on Jazz Beat, Hot Air, and Canada Live.

Get ready to buckle up, hold on, and enjoy a  wild and wonderful night with Cousin Harley at Horizon Stage on Sunday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $35 for adults and $30 for students and seniors and may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be purchased online by visiting Horizon Stage's website and clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, CKUA, Servus Credit Union, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro.

Canadian Country Artist George Fox Returns to Horizon Stage

Enjoy an intimate evening with this charming country music star on April 10 & 11

From cattle rancher to Canadian country music ambassador, taking the road less traveled has been the hallmark of George Fox's life and career. His mantle may be filled with music awards - including three Junos, three Canadian Country Music Awards, and nine RPM Big Country Awards - but he is happiest working the land on his expansive acreage/farm in Ontario. George is a bonafide country music star but it’s his down-to-earth music and attitude that keeps fans coming back to his concerts. Horizon Stage is pleased to be presenting him for not just one night, but two, on Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11.

George has released 27 singles, recorded 11 albums, written a book, and there’s a street named after him in his hometown of Cochrane, Alberta.  His string of chart-topping hits in the 1980s and 90s included songs like “Clearly Canadian”, “First Comes Love”, “What’s Holding Me”, “Wear & Tear on My Heart”, and “I Give You My Word”. George has traveled the world, opening for some of the biggest names in country music and headlining sold out shows of his own from coast to coast. He starred in four television specials in the 90s that were enjoyed by over 4 million viewers and he hosted the Canadian Country Music Awards from 1991-1994.

George's charm is found not only in his music but in his ability to weave a story and engage his audience. His Christmas album is a holiday classic and his 2006 CD, With All Due Respect, paid tribute to some all-time great artists and songwriters from John Denver and Dean Martin to Eddie Arnold and Don Messer. Tired of the fast lane, he now lives the “quiet” life with his wife and two daughters, farming winter wheat, soybeans, and corn, and touring selectively.  Other hobbies include hockey, carpentry, and reading. George last performed at Horizon Stage in 2006 and 2009.

Get Up Close and Personal with George Fox at Horizon Stage on April 10 or 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $40 for adults and $35 for students and seniors and may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be purchased online by visiting horizonstage.com and clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, CFCW, Servus Credit Union, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro.

A Family Friendly Afternoon Filled With African-Inspired Music and Fun

Singer-Songwriter Garth Prince Shares His Namibian Heritage with Spruce Grove on March 14

Born in South Africa and raised in Namibia, Garth Prince spent his youth immersed in a cornucopia of 14 languages. Growing up in a unique country that boasts both desert and pristine ocean playgrounds - where lions, giraffes, and elephants roam in harmony - he is extremely proud of his African heritage. This multiple award-winning songwriter now resides in Edmonton, and with the help of 6 other local musicians he is bringing the stories, sounds, and culture of his own childhood to children in his new home country. Garth Prince and his band are happy to be the third and final show in Horizon Stage’s 14/15 Family Matinee Series on Saturday, March 14 at 2 p.m.

Garth's musical skills were honed at a young age when he became a soloist in the prestigious, internationally recognized, Mascato Youth Choir, and toured Africa, Europe, and Canada. But, it was his tenure as a lead vocalist and co-founder of Afroshine, one of Namibia's most popular vocal groups that skyrocketed his career to new levels. With Afroshine, Garth performed for tens of thousands of adoring fans, made appearances on national television, and toured the African continent. The group’s music charted in the number one position on South Africa’s “Coca-Cola Top 10” and had high rotation on MTV Africa. Afroshine received multiple award nominations and won the Best Music Video Award at the televised National Film Awards in Namibia.

Since moving to Alberta, Garth has assembled a band of exceptional Edmonton-based musicians that includes Joel Forth (guitar and vocals), George Koufogiannakis (guitar and traditional string instruments), Elise Reneau (vocals and percussion), Karen Porkka (saxophone, melodica and vocals), Roya Yazdanmehr (vocals and mbira), Thom Bennet (drum kit and percussion), and Keith Rempel (bass and vocals). Together, they have performed in a multitude of traditional and non-traditional venues including festivals, theatres, and corporate events. Their week-long artist-in-residence gigs at many local schools have included grand finale performances with the students, for the general public, teachers, and families.

Garth’s engaging live performances entertain, educate, and share the wonders, visuals, joy, culture and beauty of his African roots in song, stories and audience participation. They include authentic dance and dress, genuine traditional vocal techniques (clicks/chants/calls), cultural expressions, and lyrical elements. His self-titled debut solo album was released in December 2012, and it garnered him a nomination for Best R&B/Soul Recording at the Edmonton Music Awards. A dedicated songwriter, he and his team are now creating new material for his highly anticipated second Canadian album release. Also a humanitarian, Garth’s work to help fight the AIDS epidemic in Africa, and in Canada, is another testament to his willingness to share his positive energy and give back to those in need.

Tickets to see Garth Prince at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 14 at 2 p.m. are $20 for adults, and $16 for children and seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be bought online at www.horizonstage.com by clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link. Free preshow crafts start at 1 p.m. This performance is recommended for audience members aged 4 and up.
 
This performance is proudly sponsored by The Horizon Stagelighters, Ticketpro.ca, Travelodge Inn & Suites, Canadian Heritage, and The Alberta Foundation for the Arts.              

Three Great Artists Connect for an Intimate Evening of Country Music

The Troubadours - Duane Steele, Jake Mathews, and Wyatt Easterling - at Horizon Stage - March 7

How often can you see not just one but three chart-topping, award-winning, highly acclaimed country musicians performing together in an intimate local venue? Horizon Stage is pleased to offer just such an opportunity by presenting The Troubadours on Saturday, March 7. Duane Steele, Jake Mathews, and Wyatt Easterling are each respected country singer/songwriters in their own right. Together, they are The Troubadours, offering an Up Close and Personal evening of song, storytelling, and fellowship.

Duane Steele has been part of Canada’s country music scene since 1984. Hits like “Anita Got Married”, “Stuck on Your Love” and “Two Names on an Overpass” won him the hearts of country music fans in the mid-90’s. He won two Canadian Country Music Awards, and was nominated for multiple Juno Awards. Duane’s pure voice and natural stage presence make his live shows a must-see.

Also a multiple award-nominee, Jake Mathews has been a fixture of the Canadian Country Music scene for over a decade. He has released three solo albums and toured with his brother Gil Grand to raise money for Ronald MacDonald House Charities. Jakes songs “A Woman and a Song” and “Beer Necessities”, climbed the charts in 2013 and still receives generous air-play on radio stations across the country. His newest single, "In Our Own Backyard", is now in rotation on CMT.

Wyatt Easterling is a Nashville singer, songwriter, and producer with deep folk and Americana ties. His career has spanned four decades and has been filled with chart-topping songs - including cuts with Dierks Bentley, Joe Diffie, Billy Joe Royal, Paul Thorn, Neal McCoy, Sons of the Desert, and Robbie Hecht. Wyatt is now focusing his energy on bringing his music and stories directly to his audience. His intricate guitar work and smooth voice draws in listeners as his songs take them through poignant moments pulled from the world that surrounds us.

Join Duane, Jake, and Wyatt for an intimate and refreshing evening of country music. This special songwriters circle will showcase their individual material and styles while still leaving room for musical spontaneity, informal interplay, and camaraderie among performers and their audience members. Throughout the evening they will take turns lending their voices, varied experiences, and observations to create a fun and friendly concert atmosphere.

Spend an unforgettable night with The Troubadours at Horizon Stage on Saturday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $35 for adults and $30 for students and seniors and may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Tickets can also be purchased online by visiting www.horizonstage.com and clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.


This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, CFCW, Servus Credit Union, Travelodge Inn & Suites Spruce Grove, and Ticketpro.

John Worth Hannam Brings Narrative Folk and Roots Music to Horizon Stage

John Wort Hannam is a powerful singer whose melodic songs are matched with a narrative writing style and laden with lyrical hooks.  His winsome, lonesome style of acoustic roots reveals a woven textile of metaphor, phrasing, irony, and rhyme that reads with ease like well-written prose. Horizon Stage is thrilled to be presenting John Wort Hannam on Saturday, February 28 at 7:30 p.m.

“Mr. Wort Hannam” used to teach grade 9 language arts on the largest reserve in Canada - the Kainai Nation, part of the Blackfoot Confederacy. But, in 1997 he heard a Loudon Wainwright III record and was hooked by the music and the stories. In 1998 he bought a guitar and learned some chords, and in 2002 he quit teaching completely to pursue his dream of becoming a working musician.

A prolific song-writer, John independently released his debut CD, pocket full of holes, in 2003 and his second CD, Dynamite and ‘Dozers, in 2004. His third CD, Two-Bit Suit, was released by Black Hen Music in the spring of 2007, and in 2009 John went back into the studio to record Queen’s Hotel. In 2011, John was commissioned to write the official Alberta Winter Games song, “Like the Northern Lights”, and in 2012 he wrote the official song for the 100th Anniversary of the Empress Theatre in Fort McLeod. His most recent CD, Brambles and Thorns, was recorded in 2012 with producer Leeroy Stagger in Lethbridge.

In his 12 years as a working musician, John has received a Juno nomination for Best Traditional/Roots Album, a Canadian Folk Music Award for Album of the Year, and 7 other grand prize/first place awards for his songwriting. His music has taken him from his home in Alberta, to his birthplace on the Isle of Jersey in the UK, and to festivals around the world. He has performed in Trafalgar Square in London, and at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.

John looks a little like Billy Bob Thornton, hails from rural Alberta, and does roots-country like no one’s business. He is one of the new torch-bearers of a vast songwriting tradition in the styles of John Prine, Louden Wainwright III, and Steve Earle but he’s also very proudly Canadian.  His narrative songs speak of life on the prairies with an eloquence similar to that of Sinclair Ross, W.O. Mitchell, Margaret Laurence, or Sharon Butala.

Enjoy an intimate evening with John Wort Hannam at Horizon Stage on Saturday, February 28 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $35 for adults and $30 for students and seniors and may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be purchased online by visiting horizonstage.com and clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, CKUA, Servus Credit Union, Spruce Grove Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro.

Meet One of Alberta’s Own “Bomb Girls” in Never Let the Crew See You Cry

Acclaimed Fringe Play Tours to Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove - February 13

The Horizon Stagelighters, Theatre Alberta, The Arts Touring Alliance of Alberta, and Fringe Theatre Adventures are please to present Northern Sabbatical Productions/MAA & PAA Theatre's production of Never Let the Crew See You Cry by Linda Wood Edwards at Horizon Stage on Friday, February 13 at 7:30 p.m.

This is the heart-warming story of 17-year-old Ethel Wood who lies about her age and leaves the family farm to chase her own dream of being a pilot. She finds friendship, and romance, along the way. Rosie the Riveter has nothing on Ethel who becomes a flight line mechanic at Elementary Air Training School in De Winton, just south of Calgary. Ethel works on maintaining planes during the war and she helps to train nearly 2000 pilots - making an indelible impression on both the airmen and her fellow workers.

During World War II, many women left their homes to join the workforce to become mechanics all across Canada.  Alberta's "Bomb Girls" were trailblazers, forging a new path for themselves, their daughters, and granddaughters. Never Let the Crew See You Cry is a hilarious, touching, and (almost) all true coming-of-age story that speaks to, and for, this entire generation of Canadian women.

Playwright Linda Wood Edwards proudly brings her own mother’s story to the stage in this fast-paced, 70-minute production directed by David Cheros and starring Laura Raboud, Alex Mackie, and Judy McFerran.  Presented first at the 2013 Edmonton Fringe Festival, Never Let the Crew See You Cry received rave reviews, and performed to packed houses. The show is now touring Alberta as part of Theatre Alberta’s ‘Picks of the Edmonton Fringe’ program.

Enjoy an intimate evening of theatre, including a talk-back after the show with Never Let the Crew See You Cry’s author and cast, at Horizon Stage on February 13 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $30 for adults and $25 for students and seniors and may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be purchased online by visiting horizonstage.com and clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.

“…a charming and light romp through an era that made heroes of ordinary men and women, and celebrates the tales of those behind the scenes who were just as dedicated to fighting the good fight as those on the front lines.”
- Edmonton Journal

“…the dialogue was wonderfully written, with plenty of laughs and plenty of singing along from the audience.”
- Retro Reporter

“…a riveting production worthy of a packed audience.”
- St Albert Gazette

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, The Arts Touring Alliance of Alberta, Theatre Alberta, Fringe Theatre Adventures, CKUA, Servus Credit Union, and Ticketpro. 

Enjoy an Intimate Evening of Jazz, Soul, and Pop

Juno Award-Winning Singer/Songwriter Kellylee Evans Performs at Horizon Stage on February 7

Canadian rising star Kellylee Evans is a chameleon-like performer, whose natural charm and improvisational vocal style have carried her on an adventurous journey through the jazz, soul, and pop genres. In the past decade she has released two indie solo albums of original songs, earned two Juno Award nominations, and won "Best Jazz Vocal Album" for Nina, her impassioned tribute to Nina Simone. Considered to be one of the most beautiful voices of her generation. Kellylee’s live performances include her new musical interpretations of songs by the likes of Eminem, John Legend, and Kanye West alongside classic jazz standards. Now, Edmonton and area fans have the opportunity to see her Up Close and Personal at Horizon Stage on Saturday, February 7 at 7:30 p.m.

A mother of three, Kellylee went straight from singing in the shower to performing live at the Kennedy Center and coming in 2nd place in the Thelonious Monk Jazz Competition in 2004. Inspiringly motivated, she threw herself into her dream of singing and has never looked back. Her unfettered determination enabled her to overcome being struck by lightning in 2013 at her home near Ottawa. The rare incident made national news, and though suffering much pain and unable to walk at first, Kellylee didn't cancel a single tour date.

Kellylee has been captivating audiences across Canada and has a growing legion of fans in France. She has performed around the world, opening for such stars as John Legend, Dianne Reeves, Derek Trucks, George Benson and Willy Nelson. She has appeared at the Vancouver and Edmonton Jazz Festivals and sung on television in Treehouse’s 4 Squared and CBC’s Ottawa’s Studio 14 Sessions. Dynamic, hip, and modern, Kellylee’s warm, soulful timbre will remind you of Amy Winehouse and Erykah Badu. Her arresting combinations of smooth jazz, up-beat pop, and soulful grooves feel simultaneously fresh and retro.

Enjoy an intimate evening with Kellylee Evans at Horizon Stage on February 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $35 for adults and $30 for students and seniors and may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Tickets can also be purchased online by visiting www.horizonstage.com and clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, CKUA, Servus Credit Union, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro.

Spend a Deliciously Enlightening Morning with Pianist Sarah Hagen

Enjoy The Music of Brahms - Love in Every Bite at Horizon Stage on Friday, February 6

 Canadian pianist Sarah Hagen’s weekday morning recital in 2014 was such a lovely event that Horizon Stage is pleased to present her again. Sarah’s concerts are unlike any other classical music presentation. While enjoying a musical feast for the ears, and tasty treats for their tummies, her audience members also learn about the featured composer and gain insight into the pianist's perspective. Sarah promotes an informal ambiance, providing opportunities for listeners to ask questions, voice opinions, or just sit back and listen to the music. For something different on a winter morning, join Sarah Hagen at Horizon Stage on Friday, February 6 for The Music of Brahms - Love in Every Bite. Tea, coffee, and goodies will be served at 10 a.m. and the concert will start at 10:30.

Sarah will focus this year’s recital on the romantic story and music of nineteenth century German composer and pianist Johannes Brahms. Sometimes grouped with Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven as one of the "Three Bs", Brahms' popularity and influence in the classical world has been huge. Considered both a traditionalist and an innovator, many of his works have become staples of the modern concert repertoire. But, as an uncompromising perfectionist, he also destroyed some of his works and left others unpublished.

A visionary and an idealist herself, Sarah’s performances are conceptually innovative. With expressive technique and an engaging personality, she is equally at home in front of a symphony orchestra or in an intimate concert lecture setting. Sarah is the Artistic Director for Pro’ject Sound, a performance project involving live piano with large-scale projected images. She has curated, hosted, and performed as part of numerous concert series in BC, sharing the stage with artists from around the world.  Highlights of her career include winning the 2013 Bradshaw & Buono International Competition, performing twice at New York City’s Carnegie Hall, and touring the prairies with cellist Rebecca Wenham. Sarah is motivated by the belief that music has the power to be a window into our souls-regardless of age or knowledge.

Enjoy tea, goodies, and a beautiful performance by Sarah Hagen, at Horizon Stage on Friday, February 6. For an even more Up Close and Personal concert experience, seating will be general admission and a limited number of seats will be available at tables on the stage, right next to Sarah and the grand piano. Tickets are just $25 and may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Tickets can also be purchased online by visiting www.horizonstage.com and clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro.

Polka Up A Storm with The Emeralds in Spruce Grove

Edmonton’s favourite show and dance band returns to Horizon Stage on Thursday, February 5

Back by popular demand, The Emeralds Show and Dance Band are looking forward to ‘polkaing up a storm’ with Spruce Grove and area polka and waltz lovers. As one of our province’s best-known and beloved bands, their music has been a staple at weddings, hall parties, and school dances for many years. The Emeralds last performance at Horizon Stage was in 2012 and they are pleased to be returning on Thursday, February 5 for a special 2 p.m. weekday matinee.

Since their formation in 1970, The Emeralds have recorded 29 albums - six went gold, two went platinum, and one went double platinum!  They have been nominated for four Junos, won an Alberta Achievement Award, and were inducted into the City of Edmonton's Cultural Hall of Fame in 1997. The Emeralds have toured the world, from New Zealand and Australia to Singapore, Hong Kong, London, Trinidad and across the United States - but they always enjoy performing for their home audiences the most. In fact they still perform regularly at local events for enthusiastic crowds.

Always fun and full of pep and energy, an Emeralds concert features favourites like “Blue Hawaii”, “Cotton Eyed Joe", “In The Mood”, “Amazing Grace”, “Clarinet Polka” and “Waltz Across Texas”.  But it’s their biggest hit, “The Bird Dance”, that was featured on a Hollywood movie sound track and gets the most recognition. From kindergarteners to seniors - fans of all ages love to shake their tail feathers when they hear that iconic “na na na na na na na na”.

The band’s five current members are Allan Broder (tenor saxophone and vocals), Wallis Petruk (tenor saxophone, violin, flute, clarinet, and vocals), Don Remeika (drums and vocals), Terry Kole (rhythm guitar, banjo, and vocals) and Reiner Piehl (keyboards, bass, and vocals). Together, these talented musicians will get your feet tapping, your hips swaying, and your whole body up and moving.

So be prepared to dance in your chair, or take a spin around the front of the stage (we encourage it), and spend a wonderful afternoon with The Emeralds Show and Dance Band at Horizon Stage on Thursday, February 5 at 2 p.m. Tickets are just $25 for all ages and discounts are available for groups of ten or more. Purchase tickets in-person at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090, or online at www.horizonstage.com as soon as possible to avoid missing out!

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro. 

The Closest You Will Come to Seeing the Fab Four on Stage Together Again

Beatles Tribute Band, Day Tripper, Takes Fans on a Journey Through Their Hits and Highlights

Hey Beatles fans! Get ready to re-discover and re-live your favourite Beatles music and moments. Day Tripper: The Beatles Experience is a non-stop rock concert where four young musicians take on all the nuances, mannerisms, voices and accents, that define John, Paul, George and Ringo. This incredible tribute band delivers a spot-on experience with no pre-recorded background music or storytelling as filler. Fans will be blown away as they perform a full-on, high-energy show featuring the songs and costumes that define each period of the Beatles’ career. Enjoy the Beatles Up Close and Personal in five incredible acts at Horizon Stage on January 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m.

Act 1 … Beatlemania: In 1964 four lads from Liverpool ignite the stage of the Ed Sullivan theatre. Their toe-tapping catchy hits, their casual wit, and their unforgettable charm win the hearts of teenagers all over the world.

Act 2 … Shea Stadium: By 1965, The Beatles are on top of the world. In the midst of the world tours, movie sets, dining with royalty, and recording studios, they are jet-setting across continents. In the studio, they push the creative limits of popular music into new-found territory. Lyrics take on deeper meanings, and the addition of heavy orchestration and studio effects became more and more common.

 Act 3 … Sgt. Pepper’s: By August 1966, frustrated with the hardships of touring and fuelled by experimentation, the Beatles decided to stop touring and focus their efforts in the studio. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band completely re-invents the concept of pop music. Free from the constraints of having to perform their music live, The Beatles are able to let their creativity soar and create sounds no one had ever heard.

Act 4 … Solo Acoustic: By 1968, their songwriting becomes less collaborative and more personal. Many of the songs written for the White Album were written while in India with an acoustic guitar. Paul starts showcasing his independence as a writer and performer through songs like ‘Blackbird’ and ‘Mother Nature’s Son’, George becomes every bit as credible a songwriter with classics like ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps’, and John becomes an unwavering political activist.

Act 5 … Abbey Road: Although Beatlemania is coming to an end and The Beatles are growing further apart, many regard this stage of their career as their best. The back-to-basics rock and roll attitude of ‘Let it Be’, and the refinement of ‘Abbey Road’ encompass everything they have learned over their remarkable careers.

 Day Tripper: The Beatles Experience is the closest you will ever come to seeing the fab four together again in their finest… and final hours. Tickets are just $40 for adults and $35 for students and seniors. The show on Friday, January 30 is close to selling out but there are great seats available for Thursday, January 29. Purchase your tickets in-person at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090, or online at www.horizonstage.com.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, Servus Credit Union, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro.

Wiggle and Giggle in Your Jammies at Horizon Stage's Munchkin Matinee

Mary Lambert’s Pajama Party Promises to Be a Fun-Filled Morning for Preschoolers and Toddlers

Horizon Stage is always on the look-out for unique and interesting artists to entertain our local youngsters. Last year we added a Munchkin Matinee performance especially for audience members in the 6-and-under age bracket and everyone who attended had so much fun! We are now pleased to present our second Munchkin Matinee concert - Mary Lambert’s Pajama Party - on Monday, January 26, 2015 at 10 a.m.

Parents and child care providers have always known instinctively what scientists have now proven: young children thrive on music. It’s one of the best vehicles for learning in early childhood development. Dancing and moving to music helps children develop body control, co-ordination, balance, and spatial awareness. And, shared laughter has physical, mental, and social benefits for people of all ages. So it’s never too early for kids to discover the joy of a live performance, especially if the show has been created specifically for them.

Juno Award Nominee, Mary Lambert, is a family singer/songwriter/performer, and outstanding Canadian artist in the children’s entertainment field.  Her two Juno nominations and ten awards from the United States (Parents’ Choice Award Winner, iParenting Award Winner, Preferred Choice Award Winner, and Dr. Toy’s Best Children’s Vacation Product Award Winner) are a remarkable testimony to her talent and artistry.  Mary’s wonderful voice and colourful performances are filled with infectious music, sheer energy, and lots of audience participation.

Since 1993, Mary has toured and performed over 3000 shows at schools, libraries, music festivals and family focused events throughout Canada.  Mary Lambert Productions has released 12 CDs, and two live concert DVDs. Mary’s highly interactive Pajama Party concert features dance breaks, finger-play, sing-along songs, and tons of fun! It includes play-time and story-time themed songs from her “Pajama Party” CD. Children, and their parents, are encouraged to bring a stuffed animal, or blanket, and wear their pajamas to this 50-minute long performance.

So hop out of bed, feed your kids breakfast, throw a coat over your jammies, and head to Horizon Stage to spend quality time with a theatre full of energetic young music fans.Tickets to Mary Lambert’s Pajama Party on January 26 are just $12 for adults, $6 for children and seniors, and babes-in-arms are free. Discounts are available for preschools, daycares, and kindergarten classes. Purchase your tickets in-person at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090, or online at www.horizonstage.com.

Classical Music and Theater Combine in Tom Allen’s Debussy vs Ravel: The Judgment of Paris

Choose your side and may the best composer win!

As the thunderclouds of the Great War pile up and burst, musical revolutionary Claude Debussy and his one-time follower Maurice Ravel compete for the love of their proud, fickle, darling, Paris. The Judgment of Paris is a mix of cabaret, history, storytelling, timeless music by Debussy and Ravel, and original songs by its performers. It is new and old, heroic and tragic, history and fiction. Allow yourself to be swept away by the music and passion of another era at Horizon Stage on Friday, January 23, at 7:30 p.m.

Together with his musical friends, Tom Allen has put together an incredible concert that combines chamber music with storytelling. As the host of Shift on Radio 2, CBC listeners will be familiar with Tom’s voice and personality. His programs are filled with interesting facts about the selection, the composer, or about our times. Tom is the author of three non-fiction books, and a talented trombone player - a skill he also demonstrates during The Judgment of Paris.

Soprano Patricia O’Callaghan is a recording and performing artist with five solo CDs and several collaborations.  Her fifteen-year career has taken her across genres, continents, and a range of disciplines and passions. She has toured both on her own, and guest artist on other artists’ shows, throughout North America, Europe, and Australia. She has also worked in film, theatre, and television. Patricia last performed at Horizon Stage in 2008.

Bryce Kulak is an actor, singer, pianist, and composer from Edmonton who has been touring professionally since he was 11. He has recorded three albums and performed with symphony orchestras and in theatrical world premieres across Canada. Often compared to the great songwriters of the original cabaret era, he carries the torch of that compelling genre into the new century. 

Cellist Kevin Fox is a composer, arranger, and vocalist with three solo recordings of his own and countless credits as a supporting artist. He studied at McGill, has composed for Justin Bieber and Kathleen Edwards, recorded with Raine Maida and Celine Dion, and toured with Sarah Harmer, Chantal Kreviazuk, Steven Page, Tom Cochrane, and Olivia Newton-John. Kevin last performed at Horizon Stage in 2011.

Lori Gemmell is the Principal Harpist with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony. She also performs often with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Lori has released two recordings of solo harp music, two duo recordings, and recorded with Feist.

Judge the composers for yourself at Horizon Stage on Friday, January 23 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $40 for adults, and $35 for students and seniors. Purchase yours in-person at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090, or online at www.horizonstage.com.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, Servus Credit Union, CKUA, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro. 

Enjoy A Rollicking Rocky Mountain Celtic Kitchen Party

Traditional Irish and Newfie Music with an Exciting Modern Canadian Twist

 Cod Gone Wild is a modern Celtic/Roots/Rock band based out of the Okanagan Valley in beautiful British Columbia. The “Cods” are a group of veteran musicians from diverse musical backgrounds, whose modern Celtic sound is flush with driving rhythms and tight vocal harmonies. Their concerts are always brimming with warmth, positive energy, and good cheer - the perfect place to spend a cold January night. Don’t miss your chance to catch the “Cods” at Horizon Stage on Friday, January 16.

Cod Gone Wild was born when Newfoundlander and lead singer/guitarist Andrew Mercer moved to B.C. in 2009. He brought with him a passion for the traditional Irish/Newfoundland music he grew up with and a vision to create something uniquely Canadian. He recruited a group of Westerners with little Celtic background and ended up with a new and exciting spin on the Celtic sound.

The members of Cod Gone Wild are Andrew Mercer (guitar, vocals, harmonica, bodhran, and ugly stick), Chad ‘Rhino’ Carter (drums, percussion, harmonica, and vocals), Anjuli Otter (fiddle, percussion, and vocals), and Roy Kawano (bass, percussion, and guitar). Together, they pool their extensive backgrounds and training in a variety of genres including folk, rock, jazz, classical, and funk, to create their own, uniquely western Canadian, Celtic music.  

The band released their self-titled debut album in 2011, and it still receives regular airplay on the east coast, across Canada on CBC, and on Celtic radio stations around the world. In 2012 they toured extensively to promote their second album, ‘The Traveler’, were named ‘Best of the Okanagan’ by Okanagan Life Magazine, and recorded their first live DVD during the Vernon Winter Carnival Irish Pub Night.

Cod Gone Wild’s third album ’Battered & Fried’ was released in March 2014. It has more of a focus on modernizing the Celtic sound and contains more original music. Their “Battered & Fried Tour” this January will take them across Alberta, from Nojack to Forestburg, with multiple stops in between.

Party with the “Cods” at Horizon Stage on Friday, January 16 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $35 for adults, and $30 for students and seniors. Purchase yours in-person at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090, or online at www.horizonstage.com.

    

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, Servus Credit Union, CKUA, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro. 

Take a Sentimental Christmas Journey with Jim Witter

Celebrate Musical Christmas Memories at Horizon Stage on December 19 & 20

If there’s one thing that audiences at Horizon Stage know about Jim Witter it’s that he puts on an incredible performance. They loved his tribute to Elton John and Billy Joel, The Piano Men, in 2013 and they flocked to see his Simon and Garfunkel, and Lennon and McCartney shows, Feelin’ Groovy and The Long and Winding Road, last March. Now Jim is returning to Spruce Grove for not one night but two and he’s bringing the joy and nostalgia of Christmas with him. Christmas Memories - Starring Jim Witter is guaranteed to make the magic of the holidays come alive at Horizon Stage on Friday, December 19 and Saturday, December 20. 

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of December and let Jim Witter and his marvelous band take you back in time to Christmases past. Christmas Memories is about the feelings of eager anticipation and pure delight. It's about that special time of year when sparkling decorations, the laughter of children, and the first notes of "Charlie Brown Christmas" hold the promise that maybe Santa does exist. Experience the magic of the season as you relax and enjoy a heart-warming array of favorite Christmas tunes, including "Winter Wonderland", "Let There Be Peace on Earth", "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree", and many more—all enhanced by an array of nostalgic holiday-inspired projections.

Whether it’s through country music, contemporary Christian music, or the repertoire of his musical heroes, Jim Witter’s versatility as an artist has allowed him the opportunity to reach out and share his endearing personality with audiences of all ages across Canada and the United States. Jim’s own music and songwriting have earned him multiple awards and nominations from the Canadian Country Music Association, the Junos, and the Dove Awards in Nashville, where his album “Forgiveness” was nominated for Inspirational Album of the Year in 2004. But it’s his multi-media musical tribute shows, The Piano Men, Feelin’ Groovy, and The Long and Winding Road, that have been his recent big hits; receiving rave reviews from music critics across North America, allowing him to perform with symphony orchestras, and taking him overseas to England, Scotland, Holland, and even Dubai!

With Christmas Memories Jim Witter has fashioned yet another masterful trip back into not just time—but into one's heart.  Let him take you on a sentimental journey that will leave you filled with holiday spirit, hope, and happiness at Horizon Stage on December 19 or 20 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $40 for adults, and $35 for students and seniors. Purchase yours in-person at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090, or online at www.horizonstage.com.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro. 

Have a Blues-y, Rock-y, and Toe-Tap-y Christmas

Celebrate the Holidays with Big Hank and a Fist Full of Blues at Horizon Stage on December 13

Big Hank is known for his powerful voice, and when he’s joined on stage by his band, A Fist Full of Blues, additional horn players and vocalists, these seasoned musicians create an exceptional music experience.  Together, they slip into the blues and R&B as easy as you please – adding an edgy, special sound that makes them so much more than your average blues band. Whether performing with gut wrenching drive, or gently caressing a moment of musical tenderness, they promise to make audience members feel both the fun, and the magic, of the holidays on Saturday, December 13 at Horizon Stage.

Big Hank and four of his fellow band members grew up together in Stettler in the 60s and 70s. These life-long friends all performed with the legendary Edmonton band Tacoy Ryde at some point, or another. They decided to form A Fist Full of Blues in Edmonton in 2008 so that they could write, record, and play their own original songs. They then went on to record two CDs of all original material, perform across Western Canada and at some major festivals, and had the number 12 most played blues song on Galaxie/Sting Ray Music’s blues station in 2012.

Performing at Horizon Stage will be the six core members of A Fist Full of Blues: Hank Leonhardt (vocals), Duane Smith (bass), Barrie Nighswander (guitar), Ken Kirkwood (guitar), Bill Hobson (drums), and Dennis Meneely (keyboards). They will be also joined by special guests Rita McDade (vocals), Dave Herrick (trumpet) and Claude Godin (sax). This combination of exceptional musicians, and Big Hank's incredible voice, is going to have everyone grooving in their seats from the get-go.

December 13^th’s concert is a tribute to fabulous blues-y Christmas tunes from the 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s. The song-list will include a good mix of swing, jazz and blues. “We worked real hard to put together this special tribute to the blues songs of Christmas and it is as much fun for us playing the tunes as it is for the audience who is listening to them.” says Hank Leonhardt.

Choose the blues and keep it live with Big Hank and A Fist Full of Blues Christmas, at Horizon Stage on Saturday, December 13 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $35 for adults, and $30 for students and seniors. Purchase yours in-person at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090, or online at www.horizonstage.com.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro. 

A Musical Game Show Twist on a Classic Fairy Tale

Alberta Opera Brings Their New Adaptation of Rumpelstiltskin to Spruce Grove on November 15

Things are not always what they seem in this thrilling new musical adventure! The Miller family lives an ideal life complete with a beautiful house, a white picket fence, and an adorable baby. But when an impossible situation threatens to change their lives forever, a mysterious figure emerges with an opportunity to turn their fortunes around. Is this mystery man the solution to their problem, or will he just make everything worse? Straight off a successful run at Fringe Theatre Adventures, don’t miss Alberta Opera Touring Association’s Rumpelstiltskin, at Horizon Stage on Saturday, November 15 at 2 p.m.

When Mr. Miller loses his job Mr. King from the bank of Listl & Prustemink threatens to take away everything that the Millers hold dear, including their newborn son. But the mystifying Skip Goldman and his “Spin to Win” game show offer the family fabulous prizes and, most importantly, hope. All they have to do is relinquish items that they value in order to be allowed to play. Will the odds work in their favour? Will they win enough money to make their problems disappear or will they lose it all? Are those actual dancing cereal boxes? Who IS Skip Goldman and what is his real name?

Written by Alberta Opera’s Artistic Directors, Farren Timoteo and Jeff Unger, this fun, flashy, musical adaptation of The Brothers Grimm’s 1812 fairy tale is full of catchy radio jingles and television commercials.  As the second show in Horizon Stage’s 2014/2015 Family Matinee Series it promises to be a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience for audience members of all ages. Come early for free preshow crafts and activities in the theatre lobby starting at 1 p.m.

Founded in 1984, Alberta Opera was created with a mandate to perform traditional opera for children around the province. Now in its 31st season, the Sterling-Award winning company continues to present high-quality, original, live musical theatre for young audiences and promote an understanding and appreciation of classic literature. Their celebrated musical theatre adaptations of fairy tales tour to hundreds of schools and theatres across our province every year. Famous for incorporating local students into their high-energy presentations, this production at Horizon Stage will be no exception as 8 – 16 young volunteers will be working as junior cast and crew on November 15.

Tickets to see Rumpelstiltskin at Horizon Stage on Saturday, November 15 at 2 p.m. are $20 for adults, and $16 for children and seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be bought online at www.horizonstage.com by clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link. This performance is recommended for audience members aged 4 and up. 

This performance is proudly sponsored by The Horizon Stagelighters, Ticketpro.ca, Travelodge Inn & Suites, Canadian Heritage, and The Alberta Foundation for the Arts.

Bring Your Dancing Shoes to Horizon Stage and Get Ready to Rock!

Don’t Miss The Classics’ Farewell Performance in Spruce Grove on November 8

One of Edmonton’s most popular rock ’n roll and rhythm and blues cover bands is calling it quits – but they’re not going out without one last “Hurrah”. After over 20 years of playing together, in two incarnations, at venues such as Blatchford Field Air Hangar at Fort Edmonton, City Hall Plaza in St. Albert, the band-shell in Hawrelak Park, and in Winston Churchill Square during "A Taste of Edmonton", The Classics will perform for the final time at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove on Saturday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m.

As one of Canada's largest rock and roll/rhythm and blues bands, The Classics performed as The Nomads from 1989-2006, after resurrecting the 1964-1968  Edmonton-based band of the same name. They kept a busy schedule performing at clubs, private parties, casinos, corporate functions, soft seat theatres and even a few locations that weren’t typical concert venues. They appeared on stage at The Winspear with over fifty members of The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra for two sold-out nights of Rhythm and Blues, and a few months later they sold-out a performance in the Jack Singer Concert Hall with The Calgary Philharmonic. After changing their name to The Classics the group continued to enjoy a large amount of local success.

The Classics are: Bill Jamieson (tenor sax/vocals), Joseph Larmand (drums/vocals), Percy Marshall (guitar/vocals), Al McGee (alto sax/vocals), Robin Taylor (baritone sax/vocals), Les Vincent (bass/vocals), Al Wilson (piano/organ/vocals) and Bob Tildesley (trumpet/vocals). Prior to getting together, individual band members honed their talents in other well-known Edmonton groups including Any Wonder, Back Street Players, Better Days, Big Shot, The Brinkman Brothers, Cold Feet, Colored Rain, Countdown, The Embers, Fatback, Hidden Agenda, Hub Cigar Store, The Knights, The Lords, The Morning After, The Ookpiks, The Original Caste, Privilege, The Satellites, The Saratogas, Sea Breeze, The Sons of Adam, The Tommy Banks Orchestra, and the Trocadero Big Band.  

Today, the fire is still there and the musicianship has only continued to get better. The material these gentlemen play is rock and roll and rhythm and blues, and they make the energy roll off today’s stages just like it did in the clubs, school gymnasiums and beach halls when rock and roll was new. As a soft-seat venue, Horizon Stage doesn’t usually include a dance floor. But, for this special event, the theatre will be removing the first row of seats and encouraging audience members to get up and dance. And who can resist grooving and shaking to any of the classic songs on The Classics playlist? It’s going to be a great good-bye party!

Members of The Classics last performed at Horizon Stage, as The Nomads, almost exactly 16 years ago on October 30, 1999. Don’t miss their farewell concert at Horizon Stage on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are just $35 for adults, and $30 for students and seniors and they are selling quickly! Purchase yours in-person at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090, or online at www.horizonstage.com.

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro. 

Two Pianos, Four Hands, 20 Fingers, 176 Keys = A Unique Concert

Acclaimed Bergmann Piano Duo perform at Horizon Stage on November 7

Internationally renowned pianists, the Bergmann Piano Duo, are bringing their “razzle-dazzle”, “electrifyingly rendered”, classical concert to Horizon Stage on Friday, November 7 at 7:30 p.m. Promising to be a performance unlike any you have previously experienced, Elizabeth and Marcel
Bergmann will perform on matching grand pianos provided by Michael Lipnicki Fine Pianos of Calgary. Their Spruce Grove concert is part of an Alberta tour that also includes performances in Medicine Hat, Brooks, Bragg Creek, Red Deer, Leduc, Grande Prairie, Slave Lake, Athabasca, and Ft. McMurray.

“We have taken a page out of 20th century musical history” stated the artists in a pre-tour interview. “In the 50s and 60s the concert landscape was full of duo-piano teams on tour with their own pianos in tow.   We are simply trying to re-establish an old tradition that will be as successful today as it was in the past century.” The Bergmann Piano Duo have touched and inspired audiences with their uniquely eclectic programmes for more than two decades. Always adventurous, they combine virtuosic dedication with the instincts of professional entertainers who love their music.

As international prize winners, including the Dranoff International Two Piano Competition and Provincia di Caltanissetta International Chamber Music Competition, the couple has performed in recitals, and with orchestras, across North America and Europe including recent appearances at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Salkind Duo Piano Festival, San Francisco and Munich.  They have several recordings to their credit and have been frequently featured on CBC broadcasts.

Acclaimed as “one of the brightest stars in the elite world of piano duos”, the Bergmann’s recitals draw from an extensive repertoire ranging from the baroque to the contemporary. They incorporate numerous arrangements and original compositions by Marcel Bergmann who writes in a “uniquely original voice that straddles the best of the classical and jazz worlds.” Their Spruce Grove concert will include works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Johannes Brahms, Astor Piazzolla, Egberto Gismonti, Leonard Bernstein, and 80s rock band Toto.

Tickets to see the Bergmann Piano Duo at Horizon Stage on Friday, November 7 at 7:30 p.m. are $35 for adults, and $30 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be bought online at horizonstage.com by clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.  

This performance is proudly sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, CKUA, Travelodge Inn & Suites, and Ticketpro. 

Edmonton’s Favourite Improvisers Head to the Suburbs

Rapid Fire Theatre brings their Blazing Improv! to Horizon Stage on November 1

As Edmonton’s premier improvisational comedy troupe, Rapid Fire Theatre has been making audiences of all ages laugh for 33 years. Now they’re taking the laughter on the road and heading just 20 minutes west to Horizon Stage for a one-hour improvised comedy performance that is perfect for tweens, teens, and anyone over the age of 10 with a funny bone. No improvised show is ever the same so if you like to laugh, and laugh, and laugh some more, don’t miss Blazing Improv! on Saturday, November 1, at 4 p.m.

Rapid Fire Theatre produces improvised theatre in a variety of formats including their weekly shows at the Citadel Theatre: Theatresports and Chimprov, the annual international comedy festival: Improvaganza, and their long-form improv festival: BONFIRE, and The Wildfire Festival for junior high and high school students. Rapid Fire Theatre has received several awards, including a special Elizabeth Sterling Haynes Award for excellence in theatre. It is a company with vision, determination, skill and ambition tirelessly working to enhance the world of improvisation in Edmonton’s vibrant theatre community.

Blazing Improv!  is the perfect show for young people who have outgrown, or will soon outgrow, Horizon Stage’s Family Matinee series. The theatre has always done a great job of entertaining little kids but the 10 – 17 crowd sometimes drops off the radar. And that’s why Horizon Stage is presenting Rapid Fire Theatre. Comedy is cross-generational. It is a safe place for even the grumpiest 13 year-olds to let loose. Rapid Fire’s improvisers will make sure that anyone age 10 and up gets their level of humour. And that means Mom and Dad, or Grandma and Grandpa, can cajole their pre-teen or teenager into spending a late afternoon with them and maybe even take them for pizza after.

But adults without kids are still 100% welcome to attend as they too will enjoy the fresh, funny, and fully-improvised games and scenes. The only thing that everyone, regardless of their age, needs to know is that they’re going to chuckle, chortle, giggle, and snort. A lot. And they’re going to be asked to yell out stuff. A lot.  So come ready to shout out your favourite colour, breakfast cereal, room of the house, movie genre, or any other crazy suggestion that the actors request. Come with an open mind, a loud voice, and an empty bladder so that you don’t pee yourself laughing.

Tickets to see Rapid Fire Theatre’s Blazing Improv! at Horizon Stage on Saturday, November 1 at 4 p.m. are $20 for adults, and $16 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be bought online at www.horizonstage.com by clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.  

Enjoy a Night of Fire, Passion, Music, and Dance at Horizon Stage

Let yourself be swept away by the sizzling romance of the Tango on Friday, October 24

Spend a spicy evening with the Romulo Larrea Tango Ensemble as they explore the pulsating world of the tango. These exceptional ambassadors of this hugely popular dance genre will leave you breathless and wanting more. Three incredible musicians, two talented dancers, and a sensual vocalist, will please and satisfy you with their stunning show TANGO: A Passion of a Lifetime, at Horizon Stage, in Spruce Grove, on Friday, October 24.

 A partner dance that originated in the 1890s in South America, the tango is popular around the world both with ballroom dancers and audiences alike. The Romulo Larrea Tango Ensemble has been performing together since 1990 and their concerts and recordings are recognized internationally. Headed by renowned bandoneon player, Romulo Larrea, the ensemble has developed a unique approach to the tango and become a benchmark for novices and aficionados alike.  Their musical interpretations and rich repertoire prolong the tradition of the original Buenos Aires tango orchestras.

Bandoneon player, composer, and ensemble musical director, Romulo Larrea is recognized as one of the leaders on the international tango scene. Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, he began playing the bandoneon at age ten. In the 1960s he formed his first ensemble, began composing, recorded his first album, and worked with several orchestras in Montevideo and Buenos Aires. After moving to Quebec at the end of the 1970s, Larrea founded his first tango group. Known for introducing tango to Montreal, he has toured throughout the United States, Canada, Europe and South America, shared the stage with many renowned francophone artists, and created multiple tango-themed shows.

A type of concertina that is similar to an accordion, the bandoneon is popular in Argentina, Uruguay, and Lithuania. It is an essential instrument in most tango ensembles from the traditional orquesta típica of the 1910s onwards. TANGO: A Passion of a Lifetime is an intimate presentation that tells the love story between the tango and the bandoneon through music, dance, bits of history, and treasured anecdotes. Romulo Larrea leads the trio of bandoneon, piano, and bass, and is joined by singer Verónica Larc and an inspired pair of tango dancers.

Tickets to see TANGO: A Passion of a Lifetime at Horizon Stage on Friday, October 24 at 7:30 p.m. are $35 for adults, and $30 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave) or by phone at 780-962-8995 or 1-888-655-9090. Tickets can also be bought online at www.horizonstage.com by clicking on the ‘Tickets’ link.  

“This was a wonderfully put together show that I truly enjoyed.

The dancing was passionate and skilled, and the music was phenomenal.”

 - Submitted Review on Ticketmaster Website

        

This performance is proudly sponsored by Ticketpro, CKUA, Travelodge Inn & Suites, Canadian Heritage, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, and Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec (CALQ).