1912: Inception
Under the visionary guidance of Senator James Lougheed and his wife Belle, The GRAND Theatre opened on February 5, 1912. It was named the “Sherman Grand theatre” after the manger Bill Sherman. It was one of the largest, grandest and best equipped performing arts theatres in Canada.
A GRAND History
While no photos of Charles Daniels have been found, there is a transcript of his first court date.
On February 3, 1914, Charles Daniels, a Black Canadian Pacific Railway porter and respected Calgarian, was denied the front-row seats he had rightfully purchased to see King Lear at Sherman Grand Theatre. The incident sparked one of Canada’s earliest recorded civil rights cases, as Daniels sued the theatre for the public humiliation and discrimination he endured.
In the wake of the case - and a series of poor business decisions - Sherman was dismissed, and the theatre was renamed The Grand Theatre. This moment remains a defining chapter in both Calgary’s and Canada’s cultural history.
While The GRAND has evolved profoundly since that time, the story of Charles Daniels stands as a reminder of how institutions must confront their histories to build more inclusive futures. The GRAND’s continued work with diverse artists, communities, and organizations reflects a deep commitment to learning from its past and ensuring its stage remains open to all voices.
As The GRAND looks ahead, it does so with reverence for the people and moments that shaped it - both the visionary and the painful, and with a responsibility to carry that legacy forward in meaningful ways
1914: Charles Daniels
February 3rd, 2026 marks 112 years since this incident. The GRAND is ready to honour Charles Daniels.
A photo taken by the Calgary Herald and used in their issue of 5 February 1948 the theatre’s thirty-sixth birthday. No photos of the Famous Players era have been found.
The GRAND is leased for a short term to Terry Carter, who renovates the theatre into an indoor golfing facility called: “The Players GRAND Golf Centre”. Then the theatre is purchased by Neil Richards, who intends to restore the building.
2004: Golf Anyone?
2018-2019: Theatre Junction Vacates
Theatre Junction vacates the space following a period of financial challenges, and the theatre is in dire financial straits. The theatre’s name reverts to The GRAND and a new CEO is appointed. Making Treaty 7 and Black Radish Theatre become resident theatre companies.
In January 2021, present-day Executive Director Erynn Lyster steps in as part time Interim General Manager, supported by her brother, Zach Lyster, as Acting Operations Manager. Nicole Mion, of Springboard Performance, joins as Artistic Director, and Jenn Lofgren assumes the role of Board Chair.
2021: New Administration
In 1937, The GRAND is sold to J.B. Barron, the owner and manager of the Palace Theatre and new life is breathed into the theatre. J.B. tries to return the GRAND to its vaudeville roots, but changing times make it a primarily movie house. Descendants of the Barron family continue to volunteer their time to The GRAND.
1937-1965: The Barrons
After the death of Senator James Lougheed in 1925, his son Clarence inherited The GRAND, and leased it to the Famous Players movie chain, marking the theatre’s hiatus from live entertainment.
1926: Lease to Famous Players
With the rise of sound films drawing crowds elsewhere, audiences at The GRAND began to fade. One of just two Calgary theatres still showing silent films, it couldn’t afford the transition to sound.
1926-1937: Silent Era
Extensive alterations were made to the Grand Theatre in the winter of 1947/48. Fourth from the left, Dick Barron; fifth from left, Jack Barron.
The GRAND is purchased by (Cineplex) Odeon, and is renovated to accommodate two 625-seat theatres. Iconic blockbuster movies such as Jaws, Halloween, and James Bond screened to sold-out crowds.
1965-1999: Odeon Theatre
Odeon chooses not to renew their lease and The GRAND is under threat of demolition, prompting the “Save The Grand” committee to be formed.
1999: Under Threat
2006: Flanagan Theatre
The “Flanagan Theatre" is named in honour of major donor Jackie Flanagan’s aunt, who had a deep love for the performing arts. Theatre Junction purchases The GRAND and reopens as “Theatre Junction Grand”.
The Grand is forced to shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which causes most of the staff to be laid off.
2020: COVID
In July 2021, Erynn Lyster was appointed permanently as Executive Director, with the direction to execute on the business plan developed by The GRAND’s Board in 2020. Shortly thereafter, Nicole Mion leaves.
2021: Executive Decisions
2025 and Beyond
The GRAND has long been more than a stage - it’s been a launchpad for careers, a home for collaboration, and a beacon for creativity in our city. Imagine Calgary’s arts community without it: fewer stages for emerging voices, fewer spaces for experimentation, and fewer opportunities for connection. Supporting The GRAND means ensuring that these opportunities - and the artists who shape the heart of our city continue to thrive.