When I was a little girl, my mom put me into drama classes along with ballet and art. Unfortunately for my mom and me, none of those classes took. On the bright side, we still love watching live theatre, seeing ballet and going to art galleries! Out of those three, I would have to say that watching plays is my favourite.

In Edmonton, the Freewill Shakespeare Festival chooses two of Shakespeare’s plays to adapt and perform outdoors each summer, and it’s generally one comedy and one tragedy. My mom and I have a tradition of going together, and it was so nice to be able to get back to that this summer. I hold firmly to the belief that plays are made to be seen and not read, especially when it comes to Shakespeare. Everything just makes more sense when you can see it!

Another local theatre company that I love is the Catalyst Theatre. Their production of Nevermore was the first play I remember watching, and I fell in love instantly. The costumes and music felt so engaging that even though our school field trip left at the intermission, I knew I would have to start watching more theatre. It later inspired me to sign up for the student ticket pack at the Citadel Theatre in high school, and I’ve enjoyed going there on and off ever since!

I haven’t yet had a chance to see anything from the Grindstone Theatre, but it comes highly recommended. I wanted to see their production of Jason Kenney’s Hot Boy Summer so badly, but the timing and locations just never worked out. Apparently their improv is really fun to watch as well! There are probably many other theatre companies in Edmonton that I’m not aware of, but I’m always open to suggestions for new theatre companies and shows. I have so much respect for the performers ability to recite so many lines, nail their staging and choreography, and emote powerful stories all at the same time. I know that I wasn’t cut out to act, but I am so happy that there are others who excel at it. Do you enjoy watching live theatre?

Until next time, happy crafting!