FALL 2006 N U J T

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inside

What’s New at Theatre Alberta 3. Tales From the Stacks 3. The Live Arts Portal 5. Report on the ADFA 5. Provincial One Act Festival

The Community Theatre that 7. Keeps on Giving

In Memoriam 7. Red Deer’s Theatre Scene 8. Albertans Abroad 10. An End to Semi-professionalism 11. RDC STUDENTS PERFORM ALARUM WITHIN: THEATRE POEMS. RELATED STORY ON PAGE 8 Report from the AHSDFA 12. PHOTOGRAPH BY HARLEY HAYES Dry Martini: 14. Of Starter Homes and TYA

Public Service Announcements 15. The Buzz 15.

theatre alberta news 1. 10 Theatre Alberta is the Provincial Arts Service Organization (PASO) for theatre in Alberta, dedicated to the growth and development of the Alberta theatre community and all its constituencies. Theatre Alberta News is a publication of Theatre Alberta issued four times a year. Contribution of notices, news and articles about theatre are welcome, as well as high quality (300 dpi or higher) photographs. Theatre Alberta News also accepts signed letters to the editor but reserves the right to refuse any material it considers inappropriate. The opinions and views expressed are those of the writers and do not check-in necessarily reflect those of Theatre Alberta. Office and library hours Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm What a summer it has been. Holidays Office and Library closed Sept. 2–4 (Labour Day), As we gird our loins for the fall (what that phrase actually means I’m a little shaky on – I Oct. 7–9 (Thanksgiving), and Nov. 11 (Remembrance Day). think it has something to do with preparing ourselves for the onslaught of the fall season) I Submission deadlines and publication dates October 20 for November 24, 2006 can’t help but feel expectant and excited. Each year, at some point during both Artstrek and January 26 for March 2, 2007 Dramaworks, I am inspired and fortified anew. The programs are a microcosm of all that is April 27 for June 1, 2007 July 12 for August 23, 2006 positive about the theatre – and are an important touchstone for me. Advertising rates Full Page (9.5” high x 7” wide) $200.00 Of course I am always relieved when Theatre Alberta gets both Artstrek and Dramaworks Half Page (4.625” high x 7” wide) $120.00 up and running. This is no small feat as the amount of administrative detail required to Quarter Page (2.25” high x 7” wide) $80.00 Please supply high-resolution files execute these programs efficiently is immense. Being responsible for 300 teenagers 24/7 is (at least 300 dpi at actual size) in greyscale or black and white. Prices include GST. Ads are booked on a not a task that one wants to take casually. first-come, first-serve basis and space is limited. Book ad space at least one month prior to the submission deadline. On the other hand I am wowed by a multitude of things. Firstly, I must remark on the TA NEWSLETTER DESIGN van Eden Design generosity of Artstrek and Dramaworks instructors. To quote one of my Dad’s favourite ex- Theatre Alberta Board of Directors pressions, “The hours are long and the pay is small.” Everyone who teaches at these programs If you have questions or concerns regarding Theatre Alberta, is there because they love this art form and want to share their knowledge. The participants you are welcome to contact Theatre Alberta board members. inspire me with their willingness to commit and jump head first into the challenge of learn- Officers PRESIDENT ing. Many of them return year after year because of the rich community that is created, the Tanya Ryga ~ Red Deer [email protected] VICE PRESIDENT sense of inclusion and belonging that comes with finding the one place where they truly fit. Karen Towsley ~ Calgary [email protected] TREASURER Finally, I am continually impressed with the dedication of the administrators, who ensure Wendy Punter ~ Cochrane [email protected] the programs’ smooth delivery with a simultaneous focus on the small details and the big SECRETARY David Owen ~ Lethbridge [email protected] picture. The instructors, participants and administrators know that they are involved in Directors something big, important and valuable. After all, being in a drama class or program is what Jane Heather ~ Edmonton [email protected] Andrea Martinuk ~ Edmonton [email protected] hooked most of us on theatre in the first place. Harold Truckle ~ Red Deer [email protected] Steve McHugh ~ Wetaskiwin [email protected] It also never ceases to amaze me how far both of these programs have reached over the Gail Hanrahan, Lethbridge [email protected] Mary-Ellen Perley, Edmonton [email protected] years—across North America and abroad! This occurred to me in June at theElizabeth Russell Thomas, Fort McMurray [email protected] Sterling Haynes Awards in Edmonton. Presenters and recipients alike referred to Artstrek, Johanne Deleeuw ~ Calgary [email protected] thanking instructors and remembering when they and their colleagues were young teenagers Staff EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR at Artstrek before joining Edmonton’s professional theatre scene. Trevor Anderson received a Marie Gynane-Willis [email protected] PROGRAM COORDINATOR Sterling Award from his former supervisor, Mieko Ouchi! Keri Ekberg [email protected] OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Kevin Kerr, Vancouver playwright extraordinaire and Dramaworks 2006 instructor, told us Janice Hoover [email protected] PROGRAMMER how excited he was when, after he accepted the teaching gig at Dramaworks, he received the Sam Varteniuk [email protected] program brochure in the mail and discovered that the Artstrek brochure was on the flip side. LIBRARIAN Solveig Anderson [email protected] He attended Artstrek in 1984. LIBRARIAN Brenda Sutherland [email protected] Scott Swan, another Dramaworks 2006 instructor, remembered attending the Bristol Old FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATORS Vic Theatre School in Bristol, England and meeting then Program Head Nat Brennan. Zenovia Adams and Loretta McLaughlin Nat knew about Canada—specifically Alberta—because he had taught for Artstrek’s and Change of address information and undeliverable copies to: Theatre Alberta Society Dramaworks’ predecessors in the early 1960s. 3rd Floor Percy Page Centre 11759 Groat Road, Edmonton AB T5M 3K6 And so, back to girding your loins. I hope your summer has fortified you anew and that you Phone: (780) 422-8162 Fax: (780) 422-2663 Toll Free: 1-888-422-8160 [email protected] launch into the fall theatre season with passion and vigour. www.theatrealberta.com

MARIE GYNANE-WILLIS. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

2. fall 2006 WHAT’S NEW AT THEATRE ALBERTA

WHAT ARTSTREK MEANS TO ME REFLECTIONS OF A DRAMAWORKS REGISTRAR by Erin McDougall, Artstrek Registrar by Dawn Tracey Somewhere between processing the tower of Arriving on-site at the Citadel Theatre for my first Hall in the Commedia D’ell Arte workshop; paper, applications, signing my name to 300 acceptance day of Dramaworks 2006, I had no idea what to glue, paint and primer flew in the design and letters, and being onsite in Red Deer, I fell in love expect. After two and a half months of register- painting classes; the strains of ‘Consider Yourself with Artstrek and everything it stands for: fun, ing, emailing, telephoning, and making arrange- at Home’ echoed through the hallways; actors friendship, discovery, and much more. Each year ments for the 114 theatre enthusiasts enrolled in rehearsed scenes in the green room and play- a new play is chosen as the focus for a week of our workshops, I would get to meet them face to wrights sat quietly around the boardroom table intensive theatre exploration; this year it was Thorn- face. The sheer variety of the registrants wowed churning out scenes of their own. Yet despite the ton Wilder’s Our Town. me. Young and old, theatre veterans and novice differences between the various participants and enthusiasts, educators, community theatre folks workshops, all were united in a shared passion for Artstrek is Theatre Alberta’s summer theatre and semi-professionals converged on my registra- theatre. Hearing new friends and old ones sharing program for teens and its popularity has skyrock- tion table while I delighted in putting faces to experiences of the various shows their communities eted. When I was greeted on my first day at my names. Even more exciting was the opportunity to or schools had done or planned to do, I saw vividly new job by a fortress of applications on my desk I drop in on the workshops and see the instructors at how much enthusiasm and excitement for theatre knew there had to be something very special about work—masked rapscallions prowled the Rehearsal exists in this province. this program. Whey else would students include essays in the section that asked their reasons for THIS YEAR’S DRAMAWORKS wanting to attend Artstrek? When parents are THEME WAS SENIOR PROM! calling because their child is choosing Artstrek over Armed with trivia questions, we a family wedding, or when professional theatre art- crowned the Kings and Queens of ists mention Artstrek as the starting point of their the Dramaworks 2006 Prom dur- careers, it’s a tremendous reflection of how much it ing the Weekend I and Weekend means to people. II Closings. Pictured here (from left to right) are Weekend I Queen To see and hear 144 students brimming with con- Rhonda Richardson of Barons, fidence, singing together on a massive stage, is to Weekend II King Justen Bennett of see the values of community and love and the arts Edmonton and Weekend II Queen demonstrated 144 times over. Regardless of wheth- Terry Scerbak of Grande Prairie. er Artstrek participants continue on to professional Absent is Weekend I King Greg careers in the arts or pursue other endeavours, they Dowler-Coltman, Dramaworks will all grow up to be patrons of the arts and better 2006 instructor. individuals because of their Artstrek experiences. It is truly in investment in the future.

TALES FROM THE STACKS

LIBRARY MAIL OUTS us to track packages, both outgoing and incoming. Beginning in September the look of the library An email notification will be sent from Canada Post mailing label will change. As a member, the only to you when your parcel is mailed with a subject difference that you will notice is that you will now line reading EVENT NOTIFICATION. If you require need to tape (using proper shipping tape, please) further clarification once the new shipping labels the return mailing label to the outside of your are implemented please do not hesitate to call the library package. The return label will have instruc- library. If you are an out of town member and are tions, including an ID number for return of library unsure about how to order scripts from the library materials. Although the first instruction asks you for mail out please contact us by phone or email. to choose a shipping box, please use of the same envelope your scripts came in. The mail back service Email: [email protected] is still FREE OF CHARGE to our members outside Phone: (780) 422-8162 the Edmonton area. This new procedure will allow Toll Free: 1-888-422-8160

theatre alberta news 3.

. Alberta company, company, of how the magic University | www.ualberta.ca/drama www.ualberta.ca/drama rts A by Marivaux the by Anton Chekhov by Beth Henley for re Cent by Arthur Miller by Nicholas Wright by Stephen Jeffreys Timms [email protected] Questions about the Drama Discovery Club? Email go to www.studiotheatre.ca more details about the plays, For out about your dramatic degree options atFind Tuesday, February 13, 2007 Tuesday, Tuesday, April 3, 2007 Tuesday, Hey high school drama buffs! resident theatre Alberta Department of Drama’s The University of Mrs. Klein The Double Inconstancy November 7, 2006 Tuesday, Crimes of the Heart The Clink The Cherry Orchard After the Fall Studio Theatre, invites you and your theatre loving friends behind our curtain Theatre, Studio this upcoming 2006-2007 season. Theatre Drama Discovery Club Subscribers see all six Studio only $40, For mainstage showsseries of pre-show and enjoybackstage an exclusive tours and interactive behind the scenes experiences at 6:30 pm before each of our 8 performances. Tuesday pm, See Chat with the directors and designers. Meet the cast. is made. Tuesday, December 5, 2006 Tuesday, May 22, 2007 Tuesday, Tuesday, September 26, 2006 Tuesday,

DRAMA DISCOVERY CLUB HIGH SCHOOL Publications Mail Agreement Number 40051164 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Edmonton AB T5M 3K6 Theatre Alberta 11759 Groat Road, 3rd Floor,

4. fall 2006 LINKING ARTISTS EDUCATORS ACROSS ALBERTA

BY MICHELE DECOTTIGNIES & NICOLE DUNBAR . TA MEMBERS

N obody understands how big Alberta Alberta artists working in schools, to encour- educators – providing them with an acces- is more than touring artists! Apart from the age arts-centered learning as a successful sible directory of touring artists, up-to-date usual curiosities of being on the road – an means of engaging students and enhanc- research on the value of the arts in education, interesting mix of giant monuments, for ing learner outcomes, and to maximize arts and support for fundraising and grant ap- example (a perogy, an Easter egg, and sausage touring and presenting resources. The Portal plications, among many other things. ring are a few that come to mind!) – artists is a web-based collection of arts education Watch for the launch of the Live Arts working in schools face the additional chal- resources, including touring rosters and artist Portal (www.liveartsportal.com) in October, lenge of trying to reach 2,200 schools, 30,000 directories, along with face-to-face support 2006. If we can help get more artists working teachers, and 600,000 students. But Alberta is services for both artists and educators. The in schools throughout Alberta, then maybe currently without a province-wide organiza- Portal provides an ideal touring coordina- more towns than Glendon, Vegreville, and tion that focuses on advocating, increasing, tion tool to artists – giving them space to Mundare will boast giant scultpures! and enhancing arts-based learning in our showcase their work, offering the convenience schools. As a well-established, respected arts of connecting to all 2,200 schools in Alberta For more information, please contact: Michele Decottignies, Education Touring Coordinator, touring service organization, the Arts Tour- with the click of one button, and providing a at 403.831.0455 or [email protected] or ing Alliance of Alberta (ATAA) is launching potential deduction on insurance premiums. Nicole Dunbar, Arts Portal Support Coordinator at the Live Arts Portal to remedy that deficit. The Portal is also an invaluable resource for 403.667.9222 [email protected] TheLive Arts Portal provides an effective link between artists, teachers, and their students in order to increase the number of www.liveartsportal.com

BY STEVE MCHUGH. REPORT ON THE ADFA PRESIDENT ADFA provincial one act festival

F irstly let me congratulate all the partici- Tales from the Hospital. Judith Mendelsohn ing-Secretary - Karen King. We are currently pants, organizers, and patrons from this year’s and Jennifer Piercey of the Calgary zone recruiting for the position of Secretary, as well provincial drama festival held in Edmonton received an Honourable Mention for their as the zone rep positions of Yellowhead and this past May and hosted by the Walterdale play Hothouse. The festival’s best overall play Big Valley. If anyone is interested in volunteer- Playhouse. A wonderful festival in every of the weekend, selected by adjudicator James ing for these positions, or would like more aspect, well done. A big thank you also has to MacDonald, was the Chinook Region’s Tales information on ADFA, please feel free to con- go out to the community of Edmonton. Their from the Hospital by Trevor Schmidt, which tact myself at [email protected] or check support of this festival was amazing, people also picked up the Silver Widget Tech Award. our website www.adfa.ca for further details. lined the streets and honked their vehicle The cast and crew ofTales was then given the This is an exciting time for ADFA and horns into the wee hours of the morning, choice of attending either the Dramaworks or change is in the air. Watch for our informa- standing outside the Varscona Hotel sipping Playworks Ink programs, the tab being picked tion newsletter being distributed in the fall my grande latte, I was in awe. Oh appar- up by ADFA. This was a very favourable of 2006, it has all the information you need ently there was some sort of “hockey” game award and will be presented to the best overall to be involved in one of our regional festivals coinciding with our festival, but that didn’t entry at the 2007 provincial festival to be held and contact information for region repre- prevent fans from supporting the arts! in High River. sentatives. Also our website will be receiving Awards from the festival were as fol- Elections were called at the ADFA a new look, all in an eﬀort to get the ADFA lows: Jim Zalcik - Best Actor for his portrayal AGM, which was held in May. Here is the name out there to all theatre groups across of Osgood in Fag Hag Fandango. Kathy new executive; President - Steve McHugh, the province. See you at a festival near you! Zaborsky - Best Actress in Tales from the Past-President - Cliﬀ Cameron, Vice-President ADFA . . . be a part of it! Hospital. Sharon Peat - Best Director with - Marion Vass, Treasurer - Celia Penman, Act-

theatre alberta news 5.

BRINGING BACK THE OLD, RINGING IN THE NEW

Good day to you theatrical Albertans. NEW MEMBERS Here’s where we roll out the welcome Individuals Tom Cainer Eryn Fulton Laura Larocque Klarissa Paradis Janet Stumph mat to all our new and renewed mem- Fuad Abboud Stephanie Callow Margaret Giffen Neil LeGrandeur Lisa Pashniak Roseanne Supernault Mark Aitcheson Teresa Campbell Rachel Gilliatt Vanessa Lever Scott Peters Scott Swan bers for the period from April 1, 2006 Erik Allen Hailey Carr Lawrence Gordon Zack Lloyd Devon Pollock Michael Tan through July 21, 2006. Don’t see your Daniel Anderson Justin Michael Linda Gordon Anika Loewen Amy Poworoznik Jania Teare Frazer Andrews Carriere Nick Green Carol Longden Murray Pruden Adam Teece name here? That’s probably because you Erika Apon Taylor Chadwick Kat Grootjes David Lovett Jonathan Purvis Wanda Temple initially joined the organization in one of Cassidy Armstrong Robert Christie Andrea Hafer Joanne Lowry Andrew Raczynski Daniette Terlesky Darlene Arseneault Shea Christie Danny Hangartner Lianna Makuch Johnathan Russell Thomas the other nine months, or you bought Jen Bailey Nadien Chu Gail Hanrahan Afsheen Mardhani Ramcharan Nicholas Tostowaryk a 2-year membership and aren’t due Randi Ball Christa Church Sarah Harrison Jesse Martyn Brenda Remin Dawn Tracey William Banfield Dave Clarke Melanie Higgins Roberta McDonald Leilani Reum Kandice Tupkal for renewal until next year. Just keep Joel Bazin Mary Cook Cole Hofstra Robert McKoen Kyla Ricard Blake Turner your eyes peeled and you’ll surely see Adam Beauchesne Shari Courtney Erica Hoiss Deb Miall Jeremy Richardson Holly Turner your name in an upcoming issue of the John Beaven Murray Cullen Tammy Horne Chelsea Millard Rhonda Jaylene Wiebe Sean Bedard Jesse Dahl Kim Howard Rachiel Mills Clyde Rigsby Leah Wilburn Theatre Alberta News! Justen Bennett Alexina Dalgetty Patrick Howarth Laura Milroy Jeremy Robinson Francine Wong Elisa Benzer Gareth Davies Daneel Irons Kyle Moss Jenna Rogers Donovan Workun A warm and sincere thank you to the Alex Bergquist Claire Davis Robert Jacobsen Karena Munroe Arielle Rombough Andrew Wujkowski following for their generous contribu- Sheldon Bergstrom Samantha Deutscher Andrea Jorawsky Rhandi Neal Nicole Rowley Samantha Ykema Shannon Blanchet Frank Dion Nicky Jordan Brenda Newman Jenna Sather Groups tions to Theatre Alberta.Individuals: Nicole Boschman Karen Douziech Kevin Kerr Quynh-Mi Nguyen Simone Saunders Calgary Arts Mary Lou Armstrong, Sheldon Berg- Rachel Bowron Greg Dowler- Brian Key Jessica Nottell Kyle Schroter Development Alison Boyce Coltman Ian Kilburn Phillip Nugent Jodie Schwartz Covenant Theatre strom, Patricia Holmes, Karen King, Michael Bridgman Samantha Duff Lori Kirchner Shawna O’Connell Christine Scott Fine Arts Council–AB Lianna Makuch, Nicholas Mather, Marilyn Bright Shenaigh Dumais Michael Kirchner Andrew Oberhofer Scott Sharplin Teachers’ Association Greg Brown Kristin Eveleigh Karin Klassen Laura Olafson Kevin Shipalesky Kaleidoscope Ian McFarlane, Nancy Price. Pauline Brunnen Brenda Finley Curtis Knecht Heather Orton Ashley Siddals Productions Organzations: Concrete Theatre, Big T Rob Burt John Paul Fischbach David Kohl Katelin Owsianski Marcus Sirman Senator Patrick Burns Mat Busby Spencer Fisher Arlen Konopaki Jeff Page Gwen Snell Jr High Theatrclan, Shadow Productions Ltd. Colin Byers Destiny Fitzgerald Sylvie La Riviere Marlen Papish Jennifer Spencer Woodhaven Jr High Bruce Cable Yvonne Fredrick Marcy Lannan Anna Paquin Amanda Stewart School RENEWING MEMBERS Individuals Heather Inglis Tracy Penner Dina Young Nigel Deans Michael Howes Tiffany Miller Ashley Sim Douglas Abel Beth Jenkins Elena Porter Alysia Ackerman Matthew deKock Alix Hvidberg Robyn Monro Sarah Simpson Aaron Adams Kelsey Jenkins Gerry Potter David Adie Lindsay Derer Bonnie Ings Malorie Montpetit Kendrick Sims Lynda Adams Karen Johnson- Joelle Prefontaine Jenna Anderson Rachel deWaal Carolyn Irwin Matthew Moran Stefan Slater Mary Lou Armstrong Diamond Paula-Jean Prudat Nicholas Anderson- Darcie Dominique Elizabeth Jacobson Kylie Morrison Jody Sloan Ryan Ash Ian Johnston Sheena Pruden Frey Ana Donefer-Hickie Thea Jochelson Kierra Mosco Jorinda Smith Peter Bass Joanne Karlsson Wendy Punter Jenny Anson Quinn Dooley Nathaniel Johnson Graham Mothersill Vincent Smuda Jeremy Baumung Amy Keating Esther Purves-Smith Aukje Appel Cecilia Drummond Jessyka Johnson- Jessica Mould Steven Snidal Kathleen Black Carolyn King Laura Raboud Kyle Armstrong Spencer Dunn Renman Jason Moyes Elizabeth Solverson Elizabeth Bowering Chris King Bob Rasko Hayley Atkins Eric Durnford Andrew Kalinchuk Colin Murphy Hilary May Somerville Bernard Brasen Karen King Lelani Reum Brittany Atkinson Kaedrin Ellis Jeff Kaplan Sarah Murray Sydney Sommers Delphine Brooker Amanda Kneller Donna Ringrose Justin Augart Alden Epp Donovan Kelly Wilmari Myburgh Stephanie Sommerville Geoffrey Brumlik Marissa Kochanski Laura Roald Luke Banville Myles Fairweather Shelby Kemery Aaron Nemedy Cole Sonnleitner Nathaniel Caines Katherine Koller Corey Rogers Derek Bedry Curtis Farebrother Graeme Kennedy Colin Nicholas Kaitlyn Sowerby David Cairns Randi Kondruk Isabelle Rousseau Jesse Benz Ciara Farmer Hayley Kerr Angela Nikolaj Beverly Stadelmann Bob Cameron Fred Kong Jacqueline Russell Mhairi Berg Karey Farnham Kimberly Klassen Kylee Nobert Christian Stannard Ken Cameron Mary Jane Kreisel Caroline Russell-King Brittany Bertram Myles Fedun Emily Klause Jessica Nychkalo Jessica Steel Rhonda Carlson Day Diana Kroetsch Tanya Ryga Crosby Beynon Kayla Feragen Danika Knibbs Kristen Padayas Rikki Steinkrauss Ben Charland Dorian Lang Norah Sadava Sean Bilyea Tyler Ferguson Kaitlin Knoll Justine Panchuk Adrian Stevenson Andrea Cheung Laura Lelond Patti Sarrasin Zoe Blackie Peter Fernandes Sarah Komadina Alexi Pedneault Darcy Stoop Ellen Chorley Brett Lemay Terry Scerbak Edward Blicq Jillian Fleck Bradley Koskowich Jeffrey Peet Jacob Sussman Ashley Clark John Leppard Susan Schuchard Parker Bloom Katelyn Foster Cheillah Kranic Sarah Persaud Chantel Swann Alyson Connolly Lee Livingstone Cameron Shank David Borsato Katelyn Fournell Bailey Kuhn Jordan Phillips Theresa Sweet Hal Cook Anna Lussenburg Kathleen Shore Quinn Boser Erin Fraser Euen Kyle Vivian Phinney Jillian Tallas Marianne Andrew Lynch Rhea Simpson Katherine Boulter Kiel Fredrickson Chelsey Labatiuk Trevor Pick Lauren Tamke Copithorne Heather Lea Manuel Sinor Danielle Bourgon Sadie Freeman Michael Lancaster Shannon Pinkerton Brittney Tataryn Linda Cornell MacCallum Linette Smith Bryce Bradford Craig Frickelton Terri Langen Amanda Potier Alysha Taylor Brenna Corner Shannon Macelli Susan Smith Samantha Braitenback Alexandra Teresa Layne Corinne Price Andrew Tedder Tanner D’Esterre Ian McFarlane Heather Spearman Aly Brands Funke-Farand Colan Leach Jeremy Rankin Kai Thompson Elizabeth Danyluk Jane MacFarlane Rebecca Starr Ashley Brazeau Brett Gartley Amy Lechelt Rivera Reese Emily Tognet Anna Davidson Richard Mack Leland Stelck Meghan Bridges Victoria Gill Shannon Lee Matthew Reeves Lana Tremblay Josina Davis Aaron MacKenzie Darrel Stephenson Scott Brooks Hillary Gillett Benjamin Leger Kristyn Reid Stephanie Tucker Stephen Delano Larry MacKillop Jon Stewart Julia Browning Erin Glover Desiree Leverenz Caroline Reynolds Alexandra Uhlenberg Michelle Dias Monica Maddaford Kenneth Stewart Adrianne Burgess Jenna Goldade Carys Lewis Mackenzie Rhyason Ashley Valberg Brian Dooley Jon Manning Michael Sutherland Bracken Burns Kayla Gorman Monica Littleton Sean Richards Caitland Valgardson Tim Driedger Gaylene Manuel Jacqui Swain Alexandra Butler Alicia Graham Robyn Lobay Jennifer Rogers Tylor Van Riper Veenesh Dubois Jeremy Mason Ruby Swekla Kevin Cambridge Breann Grainger Hannah Lunn Katherine Rollans D’Arcy Vanderwell Keri Ekberg Nicholas Mather Anne Marie Szucs Lowen Carlson Darin Grant Nathan Lust Ryan Roth Mark Vetsch Shannon Ekert Kevin McCann Adrian Tanasichuk Alix Cartwright Raelene Grasdal Taryn Lyster Joyanne Rudiak Rachel Voth Amy Erlandson Maggie McCaw Carrie Tappauf Nevicia Case Jamie Green Susan MacLean Kaylee Rudiger Vlatka Vukojevic Katherine Fadum Darolyn McCrostie Terri Thiessen Ian Charlton Zachary Gulka Ainsly MacPherson Channing Saar Laurie Wager Deborah Ferguson Kevin McKendrick Frank Tichy Kevin Hannah Gushue Rain Mair Adam Saley Brittany Wallace Kristen Finlay Loretta McLaughlin Valda Timmons Chelsey Chauncey Marina Hale Talia Malagon Nathan Salter Kenny Ward-Zachow Molly Flood Mark McNally Cordelia Tindall Holly Cinnamon Olivia Halse Kelly Malcolm Natalie Sarchuk Emily Warlow Jean-Pierre Fournier Tenyson Menze Grant Tolley Kallie Clayton Courtney Hamill Michelle Mandy Rein Sastok Starlise Waschuk Ruth Francoeur Cody Michie Bridget Toms Ashton Clemmer Aidan Hanly Kieryn Marcellus Graeme Scallion Samantha Watson Tristan Gilmour Cindy Millar Shirley Tooke Cassandra Clifford Nicholas Hansford Lisette Marion Laurel Schell Jillian Way Karen Goerzen Randy Mueller Andrew Torry Natalia Clovechok Khloe Hartviksen Robert Markham Kaylea Schnell Alexandria Weaver Steven Greenfield Keith Munro Aniceto Traspaderme Olivia Clutterbuck Jorden Hayes Kayla Matteotti Ian Schultz Erinn Webb Daniel Hall Anthea Naylor Harold Truckle Taylor Cooksley Kassia Haynes Genene Maynard Brandon Schwartz Crystal Wellman Carrie Hamilton Alice Nelson Daniel Van Heyst Amy Couch Kristin Henry Cayley McConaghy Sarah Scott Erica Wendland Marilynne Hebert Amy Neufeld Cara van Marck Shelby Coulter Melinda Herron Kayleigh McDermid Amanda Seaward Emily Wickham Trevor Hildebrand Sandra Nicholls Nicole Wassill Ariel Couture Keely Hilario Kristen McDonald Kacie Sheffield Eric Wigston Janet Hinkley Richard O’Brien Kathleen Weiss Rachel Currie Eden Hildebrand Lena McFaul Jody Shepard Aimee Woo Janine Hodder Susannah O’Leary Heather White Caitlynne Cvetinic Angela Hill Jessica McGale Kelsie Shields Sierra Cheyanne Janice Hoover Eva Pang Richard Winnick Luciano D’Ippolito Chris Hilton Amanda McKinty Erin Shier Wright Mathew Hulshof Jennifer Pawluk David Wolkowski Matthew Dale Claire Himsl Carlie McPhee Shelby Shukaliak Charlotte Wright- Cole Humeny Thomas Peacocke Linda Wood Edwards Michael Davidson Alyshia Hobday Alyx Melone Laura Siegfried Lindl Deborah Hurford Sharon Peat Angela Woodard Rachel Davies Stephanie Holmes Kalena Mickalyk Tiffany Sigurdson Stefan Young Brenda Inglis Ronald Pelletier Carol Wookey Sarah Davyduck Erin Howard Colin Mikalson Samantha Silver 6. fall 2006 welcome back BY SAM VARTENIUK. TA PROGRAMMER

Windmill Theatre Players the community theatre that keeps on giving

T his year the Windmill Theatre Players a Not for Profit Society with a mission no from 250 to 300 people per show,” says Pen- spent over $7500 sending their members to more complicated than, “To Do Entertain- man. High River has a population of roughly workshops all over the province. Because of ing Theatre.” They were the only theatre 10,000; this means nearly 20% of the entire this community theatre’s tremendous generos- group in town back then, and not much has town comes out to see the Players in action. ity, 18 young people had the opportunity to changed today. However the group has grown But everything comes full circle, and it attend Artstrek, Theatre Alberta’s summer to nearly 100 individuals and their families, is ultimately the generosity of the Windmill residential drama camp for teens, hosted producing a musical, a play, and participat- Theatre Players that is reflected back by their by Red Deer College. But the good fortune ing in the ADFA One Act Festival every year, community. wasn’t just limited to teenagers – six adults, often as hosts. “We don’t give out scholarships because or fully-grown kids, had the opportunity to “We’re still the only game in town, but we expect people to stay in High River, to attend Dramaworks, our weekend workshop we’ve formed a lot of bonds with the commu- become lifetime Windmill members and extravaganza that takes place at The Citadel nity,” says Penman. “We help the local high stay with us forever,” explains Penman. “But Theatre in Edmonton. school with their productions. We give them people keep coming back, and when they do “We feel it’s important for our mem- sets, props, costumes, and technical expertise. they always want to get involved.” bers to have these sorts of opportunities,” We also have a really good working relation- Ultimately, the only goal for Penman explains Celia Penman, a board member and ship with the Community Centre. We’re their and the Windmill Theatre Players is that driving force behind the Players. “In High biggest renter.” people have as good an experience as possible: River theatre is not a big priority. People who The Players also have tremendous sup- “It’s so important, just being able to talk with want to do theatre don’t have a lot of chances port from their community, and from com- other people about doing the things you love. to interact with others of like mind.” munities beyond – many volunteers make the Artstrek or Dramaworks are life-changing It was precisely for this reason that half hour drive from Calgary just to be a part experiences.” the Windmill Theatre Players was formed in of a Windmill production. So too, we think, are the Windmill 1974. There simply wasn’t any opportunity Support also comes in the form of Theatre Players. for people in the community to get their strong audiences. “We typically do a seven- theatre fix. Enter Windmill Theatre Players, show run of a play, and we’ll get anywhere Sam Varteniuk is the Programmer at Theatre Alberta.

Groups L. A. Connection Theatre Acts of God Company IN MEMORIAM Association of the Inside Lethbridge Musical Out Integrated Theatre Theatre Project Medicine Hat Musical Victor Mitchell 1922-2006 Azimuth Theatre Theatre Association Millwoods Christian It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of Calgary’s Pumphouse Theatre Barrhead Community School Theatre Mob Hit Productions founders Victor Mitchell on Saturday July 22, 2006. Victor passed away peacefully in hospital Beaumont and District Mount Royal College Drama Society One Yellow Rabbit in Victoria, British Columbia after a long battle with lung cancer. A former University of Calgary Calgary Opera Performance Theatre Calgary Young People’s Peak Theatre Players drama professor, Victor together with fellow professor Joyce Doolittle pursued their vision to Theatre Society Playgoers of Lethbridge create the Pumphouse Theatre and leave a lasting legacy for all Calgarians. Victor touched Carriage House Theatre Production Lighting Ltd. Catalyst Theatre Quest Theatre Society the lives of many and was an icon of Calgary’s amateur and professional theatre community; Centre Stage Theatre Rosebud School of Company the Arts all who had the pleasure of knowing him will dearly miss his spirit. Safe journey Victor - life’s ColdWater Productions Ross Sheppard Composite Dewdney Players Group High School stage will miss you. Theatre Scorpio Theatre Ecole Secondaire Shadow Productions Beaumont Composite Sherard Musical Theatre High School Association Edwin Parr Composite Strathmore Theatre Thom Goetz1954-2006 High School Players Guild Father Patrick Mercredi Theatre 75 Thom was born and raised in Camrose and was active member of the Churchmice Players for Community High School Theatre Calgary Fire Exit Theatre University of Lethbridge over 15 years. His sound and lighting business involved him with theatre groups and perform- Gas & Light Productions Victoria School of ing artists not only in Camrose, but all over Alberta, BC and Saskatchewan. His favourite jobs Glen Avon Protestant Performing and School Visual Arts were with the school children, most recently working on the production of Our Lady of Mount Ignition Theatre Walterdale Theatre Kelsey Drama Club Associates Pleasant School’s Easter Play, Who’s That Man?. Thom touched the lives of everyone he met, Keyano College Theatre his love of theatre and pride in his work will never be forgotten. We miss you Thom.

theatre alberta news 7. welcome back Red Deer’s theatre scene creates home for local talent

What’s going on in Central Alberta? As an instructor I encourage students to go elsewhere after The theatre scene is exploding, and Lynda Adams couldn’t be happier about it. As a graduation to gain experience, and then come back and help Theatre Studies instructor at Red Deer Col- develop Red Deer as a hotbed of cultural activity. lege, president of Culture Link, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the arts, Picture Arts program, we draw an enormous and Curriculum Director for Artstrek, the number of students. The more going on in annual residential summer camp for teens, Red Deer theatrically, the less likely stu- Adams has a vested interest in encouraging dents will be to leave after graduation, or to this dramatic explosion. stay away.” Theatre is collaborative, Adams “The talent in Red Deer is amazing,” reminds us. “We need others to work with. Adams says. “And even more exciting, we’re As an instructor I encourage students to go creating an atmosphere that is conducive to elsewhere after graduation to gain experience, our writers, actors, and directors staying here, and then come back and help develop Red or returning once they’ve gained experience Deer as a hotbed of cultural activity.” elsewhere.” It seems to be working. Ignition Red Deer has been home to Central Theatre was started by a former RDC theatre Alberta Theatre (CAT), Prime Stock Theatre and Treehouse Youth Theatre for many years studies and motion picture arts graduate and, most recently, two new theatre compa- and Artstrek, which draws students from nies have also hung out their shingles. The across the country each summer, often combination of companies has created a results in those students returning to enroll theatre landscape that is vibrant and accessible in Theatre Studies at the college. The high to a wildly diverse population demographic. school provincial One Act Festival (held CAT presents a full season of dinner theatre at the Red Deer College Arts Centre) and to sold-out crowds and occasional mainstage Treehouse Theatre offer opportunities for plays at the Memorial Centre, and they’ve high school students who regularly move on also recently created a one-act festival that to study theatre, as does the Made in Canada highlights an eclectic variety of shows, includ- the former Scott Block building. A black – Central Alberta’s Playwright’s Series, which ing some written by local theatre students. box theatre capable of seating 200 people is going into its fourth year in Red Deer. Add Prime Stock’s mandate to pres- was completed this spring and has been in “People in the arts and theatre world ent Canadian plays and development of regular use ever since. are very aware of Red Deer,” says Adams. “I new works, some bold dramatic choices by “We created a collaborative model that think it’s surprising, though, when they see we’re very proud of,” says Adams. “Theatre newcomers TAR Theatre The( Goat, or Who all the Red Deer students entering the field is Sylvia?) and Ignition Theatre Hedwig( and groups pool their resources to share techni- in Edmonton, Calgary and beyond. People the Angry Inch), youth-oriented plays by Tree- cal equipment, which means production are starting to want to come see what sort of house, and a slate of productions by Red Deer costs go down.” She points with pride to the work is happening here.” College Theatre Studies program that ranges versatility of Artspace. “We’re in the middle Last year, Red Deer College instructor from Shakespeare to musicals and more, and of a world-wide trend toward multi-disciplin- Larry Reese adapted a book of poetry you’ve got a city that has something for every ary work, and Artspace is an example of that. by local writer Kimmy Beach for the stage. theatregoer, actor, stage technician, play- The space can be used for almost anything wright, designer, and director. you can imagine. It’s just not high enough for Alarum Within: theatre poems was a natural What the city lacked, however, was trapeze.” fit, and the end result was a visually stun- available performance space appropriate for Adams sees Red Deer as a newly ning, esoteric play that set the tone for the smaller, more intimate productions. That burgeoning creative hub. “With the excellent direction Red Deer is moving. “We’re learn- was solved by Culture Link’s purchase and reputation of the college’s Theatre Studies ing to capitalize on what’s in our midst and renovation of the downtown Artspace in program and the development of the Motion honour it,” says Adams.

8. fall 2006 BY LESLIE GREENTREE. TA MEMBER Red Deer’s theatre scene creates home for local talent PHOTOGRAPH BY HARLEY HAYES “Everything is linking together,” Adams says. “We have people in the Fringe festivals, acting and writing, and Red Deer playwrights winning awards. We’re creating an atmosphere where people want to come back and pursue creative work in Red Deer. It’s an exciting time, and we’re just at the start of the groundswell right now. The theatrical move- ment in the city is taking on a life of its own. It’s going to get even bigger and better.”

Leslie Greentree is the author of two books of poetry: guys named Bill and go-go dancing for Elvis, which was short listed for the Griﬃn Prize for Poetry in 2004. Her most recent book is a collection of short stories titled A Minor Planet for You (U of A Press, 2006). Freelance writing includes editing plays for her playwright partner, OPPOSITE: SHARON BRAUN IN PRIMESTOCK THEATRE’S Blaine Newton, as well as editing novels, short stories and PRODUCTION OF MAD COW CABARET poetry. Leslie volunteers for Culture Link, the organiza- ABOVE: RDC’S PRODUCTION OF ALARUM WITHIN: THEATRE POEMS

tion dedicated to promoting the arts in Red Deer.

theatre alberta news 9.

BY JESSI PIGGOT. TA MEMBER albertans abroad Rumour has it that, outside Alberta, there is a broad and fascinating land of peoples, places, and things. Join us as we accompany an Albertan on an adventure beyond our own nearly rectangular borders in . . .

ICH BIN EIN THEATERBESUCHER I AM A THEATRE SPECTATOR

A group of 15 students from U of A’s Drama Department, along with two faculty, headed for Munich from April 22 to May 2, 2006, where they were the guests of the renowned Institut für Theaterwissenschaft. The visit was generously sponsored by Bonn’s Transatlantische Begegnung (Wirtschafts Ministerium), New York’s Deutscher Akademischer Austauschsdienst (DAAD), the hosting Laudwig Maximilians Universität and UA International. The visit was coordinated by Prof. Piet Defraeye.

— Sunday At one point, after several polite attempts by Jetlag was no match for the excite- various people to suggest that maybe we might ment that had been building in me ever since try this, Bernd finally exclaimed, with a smile the talented “Koons family” brought their on his face, “you Canadians apologize so internationally touring dadaist show Ursonat much! Just say it!” As soon as we dropped the tiptoeing, (by Kurt Schwitters) to the Timms Centre communication really started happening. in October 05. Now, 6 months, a little luck Things were clear, efficient and bold and our and a lot of fundraising later, I’ve managed to differences in background and experience squirm my way in as one of the 15 students made the situation electric. setting out for a 10-day visit to Munich. Our trip started with some stereotypi- — Friday cal Bavarian culture. After a stunning tour The last three days have gone by in of Munich’s beautiful downtown square a blur of theatre, lectures, and museums. I “Marienplatz,” we were off to the Hofbräu- am constantly intrigued by the differences haus where we ate our share of goulash and in practice here, from the 10 to 15 minute giant pretzels and drank Bavarian lager from curtain calls to the acceptability of leaving a steins bigger than my head. As a welcom- show mid-performance if, for example, you ing gift, the Koons family appeared in full don’t like the adaptation. During a produc- Lederhosen and reprised the Ursonata right tion of Waiting for Godot, I watched amazedly in the middle of the beer hall, much to the as an actor had a brief joking discussion with pleasure of the mounds of tourist who were the on-stage prompter about the amount of lucky enough to catch a free show. silence in Beckett’s script, mid-performance. Afterwards I asked one German student “you — Tuesday have prompters?” He replied, with equal Today was labelled “Provocation” on amazement, “You don’t?” our schedules, and was intended to be a day Even more interesting to me is that al- of creation, culminating in a performance for amazed by the differences in artistic process. though the employment rate after graduation the various people who had helped make our The directness of the German students was seems to be quite good, students are only ever visit happen, including the Canadian consul- refreshing. My previous collective creation ex- hired for exactly what they trained for. The ate. The plan was to throw the German and periences, although admittedly limited, have multiple-hat-wearing practices of Edmonton’s Canadian students into a room, with no real been in the warm and fuzzy vein of “do what actor-director-writers is practically unheard of criteria or direction, and see what we could you feel.” Suddenly I found myself on the in Munich, and fringe, amateur, and commu- come up with. I’m not going to pretend our receiving end of orders from Bernd, one of nity theatre is not as widespread as here. Still, product was great. It wasn’t. But that’s not to the directors. We soon realized that the direct- with over 40 professional theatres, Munich’s say it wasn’t a great experience. I was ness didn’t mean inflexibility, just efficiency. theatre community is vibrant and diverse.

10. fall 2006 albertans abroad — Sunday Today was definitely one of the highlights of this trip because somehow, through what I can only imagine to be a great deal of string pulling and begging, all 15 of us were given tickets to watch Haendel’s Rinaldo at Munich’s Grand Opera House. Apparently season tickets are inherited, passed down through generations who will gradually get better and better seats. To get a single ticket might require a wait as long as half a year. The difficultly in securing tickets didn’t single most beautiful theatre I had ever seen, huge success and it is, without a doubt, the prevent nearly a third of the audience from the show couldn’t have been better. start of some very big things. leaving during the intermissions though. This postmodern adaptation of the classic was To say this trip was mind expanding Jessi Piggott is a recent graduate from the U of A’s Bach- would be far too tame. It was mind explod- elor of Arts Honours program in Drama. She plans to go apparently a little too bold for some of the on to complete an MA in the near future, but is currently members of the refined audience. For me, ing. I left Germany feeling refreshed and content with plotting ways to learn German and land miles away from home and sitting in the inspired. I think this first exchange was a herself back in Munich.

BY JANICE HOOVER. AN END TO OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR semi-professionalism

W hat makes someone or something So does it boil down to a matter of how are paid at unionized rates under a union semi-professional? Is it poor rehearsal behav- much an artist gets paid? While professional contract, does professionalism = unionization iour, lax production management, or simply gigs net standardized rates of pay, the semi- and semi-professionalism = the absence of not being paid at established professional art- pro world also has its own standards for pay unionization in all cases? Once again the idea ists’ rates for the work you do in the theatre? (cut of the door). Also, many artists have a of a professional artist producing their own Let’s counter that with the question of what foot in two distinct creative worlds – creating work shatters the equation. makes someone or something professional their work as a contract employee of a theatre It appears that labeling something – is it superlative rehearsal behaviour, great company with the expectation of the com- “semi-professional” is a theatrical non sequi- production management, or simply being pany providing payment for their work, and tur. Add in the (negative) ability of the term paid for the work you do in the theatre at the other world of self-produced work where semi-professional to lower peoples’ expecta- established professional artists’ rates? The payment for theatrical services rendered tions of the artists who create the work and case can be made for actors behaving well/ depends entirely on the show’s ability to put of the quality of that work, and you’ve got a recipe for change. Time to toss out the term poorly, or for excellent/abysmal production bums in the seats. Non-Equity actors appear “semi-professional” from your theatre vocabu- management in any theatrical setting. When in Equity shows, and Equity actors produce lary! Pick up the Theatre Alberta Playbill people apply their theatrical preferences, their own work outside the scope of the poster, and go see a show you wouldn’t have standards, and prejudices to the different union’s parameters. Is the professional actor considered previously. See it, examine it from facets of a production, their like or dislike of semi-professional when he produces his own all angles with a critical eye, judge it on its a production or artist’s work is based on how work? I think he would say “no”. own merits, but don’t assign it a value based the work stacks up against what they think is What then is the criterion for semi-pro- on its label. You may find a hidden gem or “good theatre” regardless of the show’s desig- fessionalism? While the most objective way to two on stage this season. nation as professional, semi-professional, consider a show “professional” is by whether or community. or not the artists, technicians, and designers Janice Hoover is the Office Administrator at Theatre Alberta.

theatre alberta news 11.

BY DUANE MILLS. TA MEMBER REPORT FROM Alberta High School Drama Festival Association

A very successful Provincial Festival was Industry standard quality workshops held at Red Deer College May 11, 12, 13. were held Friday and Saturday mornings. Three hundred and nineteen (319) partici- Marie Nychka – Choreography Quick and pants were involved with 17 one act plays Fun, Matt Grue – From the Page to the from adjudicated Zone Festivals. Stage, Maralyn Ryan – Using Your Head to Create Characters, Michele Vance Hehir This was the first time in many, many – Taking Centre Stage!, Jan Taylor – Sing- years that all 12 zones were represented ing on Stage, Scott Shpeley – Improvisa- at the provincial festival. Truly a time tion for the Actor, Adrian Young and Karl to celebrate! Those twelve Zone Festivals Sine – Stage Combat, Anne-Marie Felicitas had witnessed 2252 participants from – Comedy and Physicality, Joanne Jacobsen 74 schools with 154 one act play pro- – Makeup. Thank you! ductions with a total audience of 7534. The adroit adjudicators for the AHSD- FA 2006 were Jan Selman – Artistic and Tim In total, 280 one act play produc- Yakimec –Technical. Jan and Tim focused on tions, including in-house festivals prior to the challenges within a piece: what’s working, the Zones, preceded the Provincial Festival. what would be developed, where did we get, Staggering, isn’t it? Consider also that most what else is there to do? Thank you both, schools had previously produced full-length and thanks also to the adjudicators of the plays, collectives, musicals, mime and dance Zones, many of whom – products of drama shows, etc., of every possible form, type, and education in this province and the Festival style throughout the school year prior to One event – are currently theatre practitioners Act Festival time. Let us continue to support who willingly and lovingly gave of their time, these efforts in enabling our youth to realize their greatest potentials. their expertise, and themselves. The Red Deer College Fine Arts Thank you to Keith Ewasiuk for his Centre’s marvelous theatre, backstage storage continued labours on our behalf on site areas, convenient access and parking, its Tech- as Festival Director and Trina Penner and Cory Olsen and FOH Linda Sando and her nicians and Front of House staff and an over- Wayne Alsop for registration and hosting. Volunteers. We also wish to acknowledge and all enthusiasm and support for the Festival We all shared a smoothly run and celebratory thank The Alberta Foundation for the Arts, event are enough reasons for our continued event due in no small part to the House sponsorships and donations from McNally usage of this venue. Thank you! Technicians Bob Francis, Sui Fan Wong, Masque, Barry Gagliardi, and Magic Media, and in particular, Theatre Alberta for two full scholarships for Artstrek and travel grants AHSDFA’S money to the sum of $500 for each Zone. FALL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Any interest in participating in the Zone Festivals? Do October 21, 2006 at 10:00am, Lindsay Thurber, Red Deer you have questions about your Zone or the Provincial Any Drama teacher in the Province is welcome. Festival Association? Contact: Trina Penner, president at [email protected] or visit www.provincialfestival.com

PROVINCIAL FESTIVAL May 10 – 12, 2007 Hosted by Red Deer College Come, share the experience as an audience member and take part in the workshops; even if your play is not the Zone representative. Lunch will be provided.

12. fall 2006 Alberta High School Drama Festival Association may 2006

2006 AWARDS LIST

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR Honorable Mention OUTSTANDING TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT Cody Lewis Bang Bang You’re Dead, Delivery Delayed, The Distance Between El, Leduc Composite Lethbridge Collegiate Ohh, Vea, and Eee Medicine Hat Ian White When God Comes for OUTSTANDING LIGHTING DESIGN Breakfast, Drumheller Colleen Copland The Distance Between El, OUTSTANDING RUNNING CREW Justin Augart Liars, HJ Cody (Sylvan Lake) Ohh, Vea, and Eee Delivery Delayed, Noori Gill Power Play, Westwood Medicine Hat Lethbridge Collegiate (Ft. McMurray) Anna Husch Tick Talk, Edwin Parr OUTSTANDING SOUND DESIGN OUTSTANDING STAGE MANAGEMENT (Athabasca) Kristen Padayas The Woodman and the Goblins, Elijah Lindenberger Power Play , Westwood Honorable Mentions St.Joseph’s (Grande Prairie) (Ft. McMurray) Micheal Howes Liars, HJ Cody (Sylvan Lake) Honorable Mention Honorable Mention Power Play, Westwood Ileana Tschbold The Auditioners, Ponoka Kendra Kerrigan Ballerinas, Beaumont (Ft. McMurray) Laura Usher The Distance Between El, OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR Ohh, Vea, and Eee OUTSTANDING SET DESIGN & DÉCOR Ben Leer Power Play, Westwood Medicine Hat Stephen Goyette & Y’Know, Eastglen (Ft. MaMurray) Nathan Lone (Edmonton) Honorable Mention GOLDEN WRENCH AWARD Honorable Mention Ashley Sim Liar, HJ Cody (Sylvan Lake) “The Talented Power Play, Westwood The Woodman and the Goblins Trio” (Ft. McMurray) OUTSTANDING ENSEMBLE St.Joseph’s (Grande Prairie) Ballerinas, Beaumont OUTSTANDING CREW MEMBER Honorable Mention Travis Schoepp Dogs of War, Spruce Grove Hush Little Celia, Hunting Hills HS (Red Deer) Bang Bang, Leduc Composite ZONE FESTIVAL PARTICIPANTS AND RESULTS 2006 OUTSTANDING PHYSICAL COMEDY “Spilled Water The Distance Between El, Zone Plays Schools Particip. Audience Zone Rep. & Playwright School Adjudicator Duo” Ohh, Vea, and Eee 1 19 7 150 50 A Game Sexsmith St. Joseph Kathy VanGenne Medicine Hat – Dennis Noble (Grande Prairie) Joe Bissell The Woodman and the Goblins OUTSTANDING PERFORMING ARTS – Don Nigro As If No One Is Watching, 2W 19 10 489 1800 Dogs of War Spruce Grove Rebecca Star John G. Deifenbaker (Calgary) – Marjorie R. Watson 2E 18 7 250 250 Power Play Westwood Kathleen Weiss OUTSTANDING CHORAL STAGING – Lindsay Price (Ft.McMurray) Tick Talk, Edwin Parr Tick Talk (Athabasca) – Lindsay Price Edwin Parr (Athabasca) 3 21(47) 7 220 1200 Bang, Bang, You’re Dead Leduc Bridget Ryan OUTSTANDING USE OF PROPERTIES – William Mastrosimone Hush Little Celia, Ballerinas – Don Nigro ESBCHS (Beaumont) Hunting Hills (Red Deer) 4W 22 7 180 610 Liars – Dennis Foon H.J.Cody (Sylvan Lake) Lori Ravensborg Hush Little Celia, Don’t Say A Word Lindsay Thurber OUTSTANDING USE OF COSTUMING – Joseph Wallace (Red Deer) Delivery Delayed, 4E 8 3 44 N/A The Auditioners – Doug Rand Ponoka Larry Lethbridge Collegiate Scheerschmidt 5W 7(8) 5 250 250 Lone Star – James McLure Strathmore Liza Rhymer OUTSTANDING USE OF HAIR & MAKEUP 5E 5 1 15 94 When God Comes For Breakfast, Drumheller Nathan Schmidt Talore Peterson As If No One Is Watching, You Don’t Burn The Toast John G. Deifenbaker (Calgary) – Gary Apple 6 2 2 36 160 Delivery Delayed – Cast LCI (Lethbridge) Jeff Carlson OUTSTANDING USE OF MUSIC 7 3 1 545 120 The Distance Between El, Ohh, Medicine Hat Mark Bevan The Distance Between El, Vea, and EEE – Chris Stockton Ohh, Vea, and Eee (Adapted by the Cast) Medicine Hat 8 18(41) 10 152 1800 Tough! – George F. Walker Harry Ainlay (Edmonton) Bradley Moss Y’Know – adaptation by Eastglen (Edmonton) Stephen Goyette and Nathan Lone 9 12(30) 14 412 1200 As If No One Is Watching – Cast John G. Diefenbaker Duval Lang (Calgary)

TOTAL 154 (126) 74 2252 7534

theatre alberta news 13.

BY CLEM MARTINI. TA MEMBER DRY MARTINI of starter homes and TYA

I was just thinking about real estate and the- admire the architecture. If the building begins So, keeping that in mind, here’s a little atre for young people. The two thoughts aren’t to get old and crumble, it is relatively easy proposition. Kids always seem to end up at entirely disconnected. Bear with me. to galvanize the public to fund repairs or the back of the line, and I for one would Let me begin by making this observa- restoration. How many TGUs have founded suggest that it’s time to shake things up a little tion. Theatre for Adults has become more their fund-raising campaigns around “buying a and move them to the front. One of the more valued in our society than Theatre for Young brick,” “buying a seat” or “raising the roof”? positive steps that could be taken would be if cultural policy was manufactured (and by that Adults. This simple truth is reflected in many Although TYA companies across the I mean if federal funding was made avail- ways. It’s reflected in the way TYA is recog- country perform thousands of shows in able) to encourage TYA in cities across the nized by the media: consider for a moment countless frigid school gymnasiums, they nation to, in effect, purchase their own starter who gets reviewed and interviewed, and who generally don’t occupy the same place on the homes. What impact might an initiative of doesn’t. It is reflected in the manner in which public’s radar. The simple truth is if you don’t this sort have? theatre practitioners themselves celebrate and own a building you are, in a sense, rendered acknowledge success and achievement: TYA invisible. And as real estate prices rise across Kids always seem to end up at the is often ignored at theatre galas and awards the country, how much more difficult it events, and if it is recognized at all, it is becomes for those who don’t own a facility back of the line, and I for one would through a special and generally smaller award. to consider the option. How much wider the suggest that it’s time to shake things up It is most especially reflected in the way TYA is gap becomes between the Have Theatres and a little and move them to the front. funded: everyone – producers, actors, writers the Have Nots. – tend to make less. If a ghetto exists in the Nor do the TGUs make things easy It would certainly generate enthusiastic world of theatre, TYA is its name. for TYA. Because all theatres can be said to activity among TYA companies. It might help In a culture that professes to value receive funding from the same federal sources, to civilize our cities, and alter the bleak, im- children, how did we come to this sorry pass? the TGUs are quite content to maintain the personal, adults-only profile that many major Part of the answer lies in the fact that children status quo. When meetings occur between arts cities currently present. And in the long term don’t vote and they don’t own credit cards. organizations and federal funding bodies to exit might cultivate an adult population that Consequently they can’t influence the politi- amine policy there is an expectation that fund- held an appreciation for theatre and had a cians who establish theatre policy, and they ing with be apportioned in the usual manner tradition of attending on a regular basis. can’t get the attention of the large corporations – which means TGU will continue to receive All good things. And all it requires is which sponsor arts. But part of the problem the adult’s portion and TYA will continue to sufficient will. is all about real estate. For the most part, the receive the child’s portion. TYA of this country don’t own any, and TGU It’s worth recollecting that things weren’t An award-winning playwright, screenwriter and novelist, Clem Martini is a three time winner of the Alberta Writer’s (Theatre for Grown Ups) own plenty. always this way. Prior to the nineteen seventies Guild Drama Prize (Nobody of Consequence, Illegal Look around. In most major cities in the theatre landscape was very different and Entry and A Three Martini Lunch), a Governor General Canada you will find one or two largish build- most regional theatres didn’t exist. It was only Drama Nominee for his anthology A Three Martini ings owned by regional theatres. Quite apart because public policy shifted generating federal Lunch and is the current president of the Playwrights Guild of Canada. His trilogy of novels, The Crow Chronicleshas Opportunities For Youth from the obvious benefits that are accrued initiatives like and the been distributed world wide, and translated into Dutch, through owning your own facility (if you own Local Initiatives Project that many of the theatres German, Swedish and Japanese. An Associate Professor of a building, each monthly payment is an invest- that dot the landscape today were able fund Drama at the University of Calgary, Clem lives in Calgary ment in your future; if you rent a building, their first few seasons and consequently attain with his wife and two daughters. each monthly payment is an investment in their present homes and respectable trappings. someone else’s), there are very real advantages If our collective rhetoric in this country to be had. A building acts as a compelling was to match our collective will, it would be advertisement for a theatre simply by standing possible to change the way things currently there. After all, even those who don’t attend exist. If someone were to say, for instance, that the theatre will walk past the building and it would be a good thing for children to have acknowledge that it exists. They may even greater access to theatre, it could be done.

14. fall 2006 PUBLIC SERVICE THE BUZZ ANNOUNCE MENTS news from around the province THEATRE MUSEUM CANADA ONLINE A NEW MANAGER OF ARTS AND CULTURE TWO EDMONTON ARTISTS Theatre Museum Canada has a new website: FOR CALGARY NOMINATED FOR SIMINOVITCH PRIZE www.theatremuseumcanada.ca. V isit them to Beth Gignac has accepted the position of Manager Among the 36 designers nominated for this experience wonder of theatre in Canada through of Arts and Culture with The City of Calgary. Beth year’s Elinore & Lou Siminovitch Prize in Theatre collections of artifacts, designs, photos, videos and comes from The City of Mississauga, where she are Edmonton designers Bretta Gerecke and interviews. Dive into the thrill of live theatre, past served as the Manager of Arts. She has worked in Dave Clarke. The $100,000 prize – the largest and present. a variety of roles in the Arts and Culture services in Canadian theatre – will be presented October during her sixteen years with The City of Missis- 24, 2006, to a professional lighting, costume, set A NEW HOME FOR THE AFA sauga and at the provincial and national levels. or sound designer who has made a significant contribution to theatre in Canada. A short-list will MAYOR’S EVENING FOR THE ARTS be announced at the end of September. A GRAND EVENT The 2006 Mayor’s Evening for the Arts awards TWO NEW MANAGERS ceremony was a tremendous success, taking place FOR THE AR TS BRANCH Effective June 12, 2006, the Alberta Foundation at Edmonton’s Winspear Centre on May 29. Many Al Chapman is the new Manager for Arts Grants for the Arts and Arts Branch will be relocating. of Edmonton’s finest performers entertained over and will be responsible for all AFA grants and Their new address will be: 1300 guests with dance, theatre, and music. The other arts awards. Al starts in his new position 10708 105 Avenue, Edmonton AB T5H 2X2 final act featuring Souljah Fyah, a local reggae as soon as his duty as Special Projects Manager group, inspired over a hundred audience members for the Folklife Festival at the Smithsonian wraps to dance on the stage, including the Mayor him- up in late July. Starting immediately, Paul Pearson self. It was a truly great night for Edmonton’s arts becomes the Manager of Arts Services. His new and business community. responsibilities include the provincial art collections, film classification, communications, policy, ACCOLADES ABOUND FOR THE LADIES and research. OF PACE The Professional Arts Coalition of Edmonton is Both Paul and Al are well-known in the arts pleased to announce that two of their associates community in Alberta from their previous roles UPCOMING GRANT DEADLINES have been recently recognized for achievements in the Branch as Arts Development Consultants For more information on these grants please contact the in the arts. for Literary Arts and Music respectively. The Arts funding agencies directly. Branch and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts Congratulations to Denise Roy for being recently have many exciting projects in the works. We’re Canada Council Grant Deadlines inducted into Edmonton’s Cultural Hall of Fame very pleased to have Al and Paul on board! www.canadacouncil.ca at the 55th Annual Salute to Excellence Awards. 15 Sept. 2006 Theatre Production Project Grants: Denise is one of PACE’s original members and was Established Artists’ Development/Production instrumental in the work done by the Mayor’s Task 15 Sept. 2006 Theatre Production Project Grants: Artists and Community Collaboration Fund Force which lobbied for the creation of the Edmon- 15 Sept. 2006 Theatre Production Project Grants: ton Arts Council. She has remained a member Emerging Artists’ Development/Production of PACE over the years, expertly moderated our Anytime Travel Grants Mayoral Candidates Forum in the last election, and (at least six weeks before departure date) has been a valuable source of advice and input.

AFA Grant Deadlines Congratulations go out as well to Shelley Switzer Application forms to the following theatre grant programs for being awarded the YWCA Woman of Distinc- can be downloaded at www.cd.gov.ab.ca/all_about_us/ commissions/arts/fastforms/index.asp tion in Arts and Culture for 2006. Shelley is the Artistic Producer of the Edmonton Interna- Project Grant deadlines occur twice annually on 15 February and 1 September. tional Street Performers Festival and very active in Edmonton’s arts scene. Shelley has always Edmonton Arts Council www.edmontonarts.ab.ca/grants.html been an outspoken advocate for the arts and has Community Investment Program Travel Grant participated in many of PACE’s initiatives, including Applications will be considered 3 times per year: serving as a jury member for the Mayor’s Evening February 1, June 1, October 1 for the Arts and attending budget hearings at City Other Grant Deadlines TBA. Hall to show her support for the community.

theatre alberta alberta news 15.

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