MAY NEWSLETTER

Barron, R. Entrance to auditorium of theatre, early May 1945. Film, “Can’t Help Singing”, played May 10-12, 1945.

"May, more than any other month of the year, wants us to feel most alive."

- Fennel Hudson

THE GRAND EVENTS

THE GRAND POET LAUREATES OF THE HEMINGWAY

THURS. MAY 09, 2024

This event is a high profile poetry event that celebrates the accomplishments of three Canadian Poet Laureates, one of the highest honours in that discipline. The evening will feature readings by (and possibly discussions with) Peter Hrastovec, Micheline Maylor-Kovitz and Wakefield Brewster. The GRAND has an especially close connection with Wakefield Brewster, who is a major figure not only in Calgary's arts and culture scene, but an active community builder and champion in the Black Artistry community. Venue support from Work Nicer and The Commons is invaluable to the success of this event, which would otherwise not be possible.

This event will take place at the Ramsay Design Centre, Hemingway Room - 1204 20 Ave SE, Calgary, AB

GROUND DOWN

MON. MAY 27, 2024

Experience "Ground Down," a compelling documentary directed by Josh Sandulak, delving into singer/songwriter Abbie Thurgood's journey after a harrowing skydiving accident. Discover the resilience and determination that led her from tragedy to triumph, as medical experts detail her remarkable recovery. This film sheds light on the emotional and physical toll of adversity, supported by crisp cinematography against Alberta's foothills. The screening will also feature live music and a Q&A session with Abbie Thurgood. This film was funded by TELUS STORYHIVE, proceeds from this screen will be donated to Spinal Cord Injury Alberta.

THE GRAND POET LAUREATES OF THE HEMINGWAY

THURS. MAY 16, 2024

Join us at The GRAND for an unforgettable evening dedicated to exploring the fascinating world of Wakefield Brewster - Calgary's 6th Poet Laureate! Wakefield will be reading excerpts from his new book, WAKEWord, with a Q&A to follow.

In this journey of self-expression and self exploration, Wakefield Brewster overcomes educational systems, addiction, and mental despair to deliver messages of hope, wellness, and pride in his blackness. In his own words, “In an odyssey of self awareness and societal association, I have crafted a deeper communion with the world around me.” In an anthem of hope and pride, one of Alberta’s most renowned spoken word performers inspires with messages of connection and overcoming.

MORE EVENTS THIS MONTH

KRISTINA KUZMIC - THE HOPE AND HUMOR TOUR

THURS. MAY 02, 2024

Kristina Kuzmic’s Hope & Humor show offers more than comedy—it's an hour of laughter and tears, tackling life's chaos. Through her authentic journey, Kristina confronts judgment, guilt, perfectionism, and life's unrealistic ideals. Described as therapy in comedy, her stories validate and empower, culminating in a must-watch finale.

The lobby doors will swing open at 7PM, offering an ideal chance to come early and savor some wine before the show begins.

AGE 18+ EVENT (NO MINORS)

MAY 4 & 5, 2024

Circofest is returning to The GRAND! Come and witness the best of aerials, acrobatics, dance, and variety circus acts at this thrilling Western Canadian competition. Don't miss out on all these jaw-dropping performances and unforgettable moments!

CIRCO FESTIVAL CANADA

MAY 9 - 12 & 23 -26, 2024

Join us and Abstract Movement Festival for two exciting weekends filled with diverse dance competitions. Established in 2021 by certified dance instructors Erin Kerr-Trethart and Mackenzie Hollinger from Calgary, Alberta, this festival brings a fresh perspective to the competitive dance scene. With years of experience teaching dancers of all skills and abilities, Erin and Mackenzie are dedicated to ensuring every participant has the opportunity to excel during the competition season. Abstract Movement Festival is proud to be a family-friendly event that promises to be a thrilling experience for all!

ABSTRACT MOVEMENT FESTIVAL

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Discover Kateryna Pysarenko, a talented watercolour artist who moved to Calgary from Ukraine in 2022. She's also a valued member of our team, often seen greeting guests at The GRAND's front of house. We're incredibly lucky to have her with us!

Kateryna’s artistic journey began in middle school when she enrolled in an art class for fun, and loved it! At age 15, she gave up her childhood dream of becoming a doctor and chose to pursue a career in the arts.

Kateryna obtained a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design and specialized in designing digital art prints for clothing and tableware. After more than ten  years in this field, she decided to move away from graphic design in favour of creating more traditional, tactile art with her hands.

She dusted off her paints, and rediscovered joy in watercolour painting. She likes this medium because, “You can’t control it; you and the water are creating the piece together.” She also likes that watercolour allows her to include fine details in her works. “The small details matter - they enable us to build connections with others.”

Kateryna Pysarenko

Kateryna’s artistry brings her happiness, allowing her the freedom to be herself to express her feelings and explore what excites her. She draws inspiration from the world around her. Nature, books, culture, and her daily interactions and experiences are part of her process. As she paints, she contemplates how these things make her, and others, think and feel. “I like to explore the dance between our external and internal worlds, and showcase the beauty of everyday life.”

Another key influence on her work is the war in Ukraine. “I have a series of works depicting architectural landmarks that have been destroyed to illustrate that war always entails destruction – of human lives, land, objects and spaces.” Through her art, she navigates her emotions, and seeks to find peace amidst the turbulence.

When asked what she’s most proud of, Kateryna shares, “That I’ve continued making art after moving to Canada, despite all of the changes in my life.” In terms of advice she has for other artists: “Keep doing it, even if it’s just for you - that’s enough of a reason. If others enjoy it, even better.”

As for what’s next, Kateryna wishes to pay it forward and support other newcomer artists to receive the support, inspiration and friendship she was offered. She loves being a part of the local arts scene and dreams of  organizing her very own art exhibition. When she's not creating art, Kateryna indulges in her other passions such as reading, studying psychology, taking leisurely walks, meeting new people, and enjoying mystery-themed movies, TV shows, and theatre performances.

CELEBRATE CINCO DE MAYO WITH SPANIC ARTS!

Get ready to celebrate Cinco De Mayo! Join the vibrant event hosted by our neighbors, SpanicArts located in the Lougheed building - just around the corner from The GRAND! Immerse yourself in Mexican culture with live music, authentic cuisine, handcrafted goods, and fun activities for the whole family. Don't miss this chance to create lasting memories and experience the rich heritage of Mexico.

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!