While mid-summer is a great time to enjoy the smorgasbord of outdoor festivals, the Arden Theatre has launched a new performance season for families, young people and toddlers.
During the upcoming season dubbed Escape the Ordinary, four productions for audiences will be made available from September 2018 to March 2019.
Programming presenter Caitlin North has compiled a series that connects a diversity of creativity while establishing theatre as an important cultural activity for the young.
Kicking off the family programs is Fred Penner and the Cat’s Meow Band, his four-piece ensemble, on Sunday, Sept. 30.
Multiple generations of Canadians have enjoyed the Juno Award-winning family entertainer through song and spoken word. Throughout 40-plus years entertaining, he has voiced one consistent message, “Never underestimate your ability to make a difference in the life of a child.”
“We’re excited to present him. He just won a Juno and we’re very happy to bring him back,” said North.
Exactly a month later on Wednesday, Oct. 31, Rattle and Strum invite preschool kiddies to drop by for some Halloween hi-jinks. The Calgary duo just released their second album in May, armed with catchy tunes, great grooves and fun lyrics.
Chock full of the silliness kids love, Ants in My Pants covers topics such as turkeys, marshmallows, sneezing, pocket junk, and Meatball Man the superhero.
Back on the road after starring in the popular kids’ CBC series Will’s Jams, West Coast singing storyteller Will Stroet swings by the Arden once again on Saturday, Feb. 16.
An internationally recognized musician-storyteller, he has released six albums in English and French, and continues to mine his kid-friendly imagination for fresh material.
“His interactive show is tech heavy and we have a chance to see it before he takes it for a tour of China,” North said.
Closing the family series on Saturday, March 9, is Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other E. Carle Favourites.
Mermaid Theatre has performed shows since 1972. However, its 2016 puppetry and black light show, Goodnight Moon & The Runaway Bunny, won the hearts of Arden fans.
“As a parent I love seeing the connection they have with people, and I enjoy supporting their work.”
The company has booked two shows. The 11 a.m. performance is a quieter, sensory-friendly show. The 3 p.m. performance is a regular show.
Ticket prices vary with shows. Call the Arden box office at 780-459-1542 or purchase online at www.ticketmaster.ca.
