A New Era Begins as Alberta Theatre Projects Celebrates 50 Years

ATP has quite a diverse history of programming and the 50th anniversary season will reflect the range of past productions and celebrate ATP’s standard of excellence.

Haysam Kadri - Photo by Erin Wallace

Four exciting shows will hit the stage in the 2024-2025 season to reflect the company’s diverse programming over the years. 

Inside the Martha Cohen Theatre, theatre enthusiasts have sat shoulder to shoulder enjoying live performances for decades, in part thanks to Alberta Theatre Projects (ATP). Since its conception in the 1970s, ATP has offered audiences high-end entertainment, home-grown talent and world-class theatre. This coming season, the company will celebrate 50 years of contributions to the theatre industry and resiliency in the business. 

After a few years of unprecedented hardships brought on by the pandemic’s restrictions, audiences have returned to their live theatre seats in full force, and ATP is looking forward to the rebirth of theatre. 

Fifty years of impact

Although ATP remains a staple of Calgary’s vibrant art scene, over the years, the company has taken different shapes. It has welcomed new artistic directors, moved locations from its original 165-seat home in the Canmore Opera House and gone through the ebbs and flows of ticket sales. Yet, theatre at its core hasn’t changed all that much, explains ATP’s artistic director Haysam Kadri, and after half a century, ATP’s mission hasn’t wavered.

“We always want people to be inspired. We want people to change from when they enter the theatre to when they exit the theatre,” he says. “We want to continue to foster connections and create memorable experiences for our audience members. We’ve done that for 50 years. We are a cultural institution in this city, in this province and in the country, and it’s important that we continue the legacy for another 50 years.” 

Exciting programming

ATP has quite a diverse history of programming and the 50th anniversary season will reflect the range of past productions and celebrate ATP’s standard of excellence.

Paul Gross – Photo by Dahlia Katz

To kick off the season, Canadian actor Paul Gross will return to the Alberta stage to star in the dark comedy, The Seafarer. “It adds an extra layer of excitement, and it also sets the stage as a testament to the deep roots and enduring impact of theatre in our community,” says Kadri. From Oct. 15 to Nov. 10, theatregoers can revel in the performance of the Canadian legend and enjoy a play about redemption and second chances. 

During the holiday season, ATP will present the timeless tale of Charlotte’s Web. “It brings together audiences of all ages to experience the magic of live theatre, and as part of our 50th anniversary of connection, we’re committed to fostering those connections and creating memorable experiences for audience members. Charlotte’s Web really captures the essence of that,” affirms Kadri. 

King James will follow, a dynamic story of friendship based around Lebron James’ reign in Cleveland. The anniversary season will wrap up with Liars at a Funeral, a hilarious comedy that will have you laughing all night long. 

The 2024-2025 program appeals to all ages and interests, and it’s sure to be a don’t-miss season. Early-bird subscriptions are on sale now, securing your tickets in advance and ensuring you have priority access to your favourite seats. Plus, you get exclusive benefits and discounts. First-time subscribers and those who renew their subscription by May 31 will also be entered in an early-bird draw to win a $500 Visa gift card.

For more information or to subscribe, visit albertatheatreprojects.com or call 403-294-7402.

This content was produced for the advertiser by RedPoint Media for commercial purposes. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of Avenue staff.

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