APRIL NEWSLETTER
"1st Street West, Calgary, Alberta.", [ca. 1913], (CU1104295) by Unknown. Courtesy of Glenbow Library and Archives Collection, Libraries and Cultural Resources Digital Collections, University of Calgary.
THE NEWS
EXCITING NEWS FROM THE GRAND
As many of you know, the future of Western Canada’s oldest performing arts theatre has been uncertain. Today we are thrilled to announce that conversations with our landlord, Allied Properties REIT, have reopened. Founder & Executive Chair, Micheal Emory, and President & CEO, Cecilia Williams flew to Calgary last month and conversations were productive. They share our goal to retain the theatre as part of the arts ecosystem in Calgary and we look forward to working with them more collaboratively to create a vibrant downtown.
Stay tuned for further developments as we embark on this journey together. Your continued support means the world to us!
A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE
Embark on a journey through time with us as The GRAND proudly presents "A Trip Down Memory Lane".
We invite you to join us on social media for a nostalgic exploration of our 112-year history.
Starting this month, join us every Monday and Friday, and dive deep into The GRAND's past, from its inception in 1912 to the present day. Discover fascinating stories of historic events, legendary performers, and the evolution of our space as a cultural cornerstone in Calgary.
Don't miss out on this immersive experience!
GRAND MEMORIES COLLECTION
As part of our trip down memory lane we invite you to contribute to our “GRAND Memories Project”.
At 112 years old, The GRAND theatre has created memorable events for long-time Calgarians and newcomers alike. Help us capture the essence of The GRAND by sharing your cherished memories along with a photo to accompany your story. Together, let's craft a collective narrative that celebrates the diverse individuals and experiences that have shaped our beloved theatre. Whether you attended a memorable show, watched a film, practiced your golf swing, or even encountered a spooky experience, we want to hear it all!
EVENTS THIS MONTH
LEONID PARFENOV - NAMEDNI AND VSEGA
SAT. APRIL 20, 2024
Leonid Parfenov, renowned journalist and TV host, will present his updated volume "Namedni. Our Era. 1961-1970" at an exclusive event in Calgary. “Namedni and Vsegda” is a conversation about the past, present and future. This is an original, fresh look at history and what is happening around us here and now. This, as Parfenov himself says, is “journalism about the past, which continues to be the present".
FRI. APRIL 26, 2024
UK-born troubadour Martin Kerr, now based in Edmonton, creates soul-stirring music. With heartfelt lyrics and delicate instrumentation, he delves into life's intricacies. Recently signed to Nettwerk Music Group, he's shared stages with icons like Sarah McLachlan and Dermot Kennedy, performing in 35 countries. His debut album, "Better Than Brand-New," topped Canadian charts, while "Everything Is Under Control" amassed 1.5 million Spotify streams. Amidst the pandemic, Kerr's "Stay Home Street Concerts" gained acclaim, with 400 live shows inspiring his upcoming EP.
MARTIN KERR
ARTIST OF THE MONTH
KELSIE VANSTONE
When she returned to Calgary, Kelsie began to dabble in acting. She secured an agent and landed several commercials, as well as roles in the hit TV series Fargo and a sci-fi movie in Taiwan!
In 2022, she joined the W&M Dance Company and has participated in their past two seasons. In 2023, she combined her love of dance and teaching with her industry experience and opened Dance Alchemy to offer dance classes that enable adults to learn, explore and embrace the art of dance in a safe, welcoming space. “I wanted to bring people together, and help them to find joy in movement and not take dance too seriously.” One of her favourite parts of this venture has been building a community of people who have become like family to her.
When asked what she’s most proud of, she shares, “That I’ve never allowed my setbacks in life to deter me from my love of dance and art. I’m also proud of my grit - I'm still trying, exploring and I keep on growing.”
As for what’s next, Kelsie recently applied for a grant to create a show which highlights her artistic journey and combines dance and the Tarot Major Arcana. “Collaboration is the truest form of art,” she says. She also wants to help emerging artists to navigate their careers and artistic goals, and build workshops and programs that enable them to evolve their practice.
Outside of her artistic pursuits, Kelsie enjoys fashion, self-help books, and indulging her playful side through board games, roller skating, and karaoke. She also recently discovered Indigenous roots in her family history, and is enjoying making new connections and learning more about her heritage and herself.
Meet dancer, choreographer, actor and model, Kelsie Vanstone !
Kelsie’s artistic journey began at age three when she discovered a passion for dance and performing. By age ten, she was dancing 30-40 hours a week in Grande Prairie and attending dance schools, camps, and competitions across North America.
After a brief stint training to be a hairstylist, Kelsie decided to pursue a career in dance to continue creating and exploring art through movement. She took on various artistic roles in Vancouver and Calgary including performing, choreographing and teaching dance. She also travelled to London, England where she worked as an arts administrator and led the re-brand of a dance studio. Although she appreciated learning about the back-end of dance, she realized that what she loved most was creating art and being on stage.
CONSIDER DONATING TO THE GRAND
As a non-profit arts organization, The GRAND thrives on the generous support of patrons like you. Your contributions are more than just donations; they are investments in our community and in the vibrant, transformative power of art. Every dollar you give is channeled directly back into our programs, enabling us to produce exciting shows, host workshops, and continue to make art accessible to all. Please consider extending your support by making a donation today!