In the heart of downtown Edmonton, the iconic Citadel Theatre opened its doors this weekend for a vibrant celebration of Alberta Culture Days, coinciding with the institution’s remarkable 60th anniversary. The landmark venue transformed into a bustling hub of creativity, offering Edmontonians a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of theatrical production while showcasing the rich cultural tapestry that defines Alberta’s arts community.
“This isn’t just about celebrating our milestone anniversary,” said Chantell Ghosh, Executive Director of the Citadel Theatre. “It’s about reconnecting with our community after challenging years and reminding everyone that cultural spaces like the Citadel belong to all Albertans.”
Visitors wandered through typically restricted areas during guided tours, discovering the intricate craft behind stage productions. From costume departments brimming with historical garments to technical booths controlling elaborate lighting systems, attendees experienced firsthand the complexity that supports each performance at the Citadel.
The celebration featured a diverse array of activities designed to engage all ages. Children participated in interactive drama workshops while adults attended masterclasses led by professional actors and directors. A particularly popular attraction was the prop-making demonstration, where visitors learned techniques for creating convincing stage weapons and period artifacts that have featured in the theatre’s most acclaimed productions.
“What we’re seeing today is the culmination of sixty years of cultural investment in Alberta,” noted provincial Culture Minister Tanya Fir, who attended Saturday’s festivities. “Institutions like the Citadel don’t just entertain—they preserve our stories and shape our collective identity as Albertans.”
The anniversary celebration strategically aligned with Alberta Culture Days, a province-wide initiative promoting arts engagement across communities. This year’s programming emphasized accessibility, with the Citadel offering free admission to most events and providing ASL interpreters for major presentations.
Long-time patron Margaret Wilkinson, who attended the theatre’s very first season in 1965, reflected on the Citadel’s evolution: “I remember when this was just a small company in an old Salvation Army building. To see what it’s become—this cultural cornerstone—it’s truly remarkable how it’s grown with our city.”
Beyond celebratory performances, the weekend featured a thought-provoking film series examining Alberta’s changing cultural landscape, alongside panel discussions addressing the challenges facing arts organizations in post-pandemic recovery. Industry leaders candidly discussed funding constraints while highlighting innovative solutions emerging across the province’s cultural sector.
The Citadel also unveiled plans for its diamond anniversary season, announcing an ambitious lineup blending classics with contemporary Canadian works. Executive Director Ghosh emphasized the theatre’s commitment to diverse storytelling, noting that upcoming productions will feature more Indigenous voices and culturally diverse perspectives than ever before.
As Edmonton’s cultural landscape continues evolving amid economic uncertainties and shifting entertainment habits, the question remains: How will cornerstone institutions like the Citadel Theatre adapt to engage new generations while honoring their historical significance in Alberta’s cultural narrative?
