Calgary

1. Theatres and Performing Arts

Calgary has a dynamic theatre scene, ranging from large-scale productions to intimate performances by local artists.

Key Venues:

• Theatre Calgary

  • Location: Max Bell Theatre, Arts Commons (205 8 Ave SE)
  • Description: One of Calgary’s premier theatre companies, offering a mix of classic plays, contemporary works, and Canadian productions.
  • Ticket Costs: $30–$120, depending on the production and seating.
  • Tips: Check for discounted tickets on preview nights or matinees.
  • Website: theatrecalgary.com

• Alberta Theatre Projects (ATP)

  • Location: Martha Cohen Theatre, Arts Commons
  • Description: Focuses on new Canadian plays and innovative storytelling.
  • Ticket Costs: $20–$90.
  • Tips: ATP often hosts post-show discussions—great for deeper insights into the performances.
  • Website: atplive.com

• Vertigo Theatre

  • Location: Arts Commons
  • Description: Specializes in mystery and thriller productions.
  • Ticket Costs: $29–$75.
  • Tips: Look for their "Pay-What-You-Can" nights for budget-friendly options.
  • Website: vertigotheatre.com

• Jubilee Auditorium (Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium)

  • Location: 1415 14 Ave NW
  • Description: A large venue hosting Broadway musicals, ballet, opera, and concerts.
  • Ticket Costs: $50–$200, depending on the event.
  • Tips: Book tickets early for popular shows like touring Broadway productions.
  • Website: jubileeauditorium.com

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2. Music Venues and Live Performances

Calgary’s music scene is diverse, featuring everything from indie bands to classical orchestras.

Key Venues:

• Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO)

  • Location: Jack Singer Concert Hall, Arts Commons
  • Description: Offers classical, pop, and family-friendly concerts.
  • Ticket Costs: $25–$100.
  • Tips: Students and seniors can often get discounted tickets.
  • Website: calgaryphil.com

• The Palace Theatre

  • Location: 219 8 Ave SW
  • Description: A historic venue hosting live music, comedy, and special events.
  • Ticket Costs: $20–$80, depending on the artist.
  • Tips: Arrive early for general admission events to secure a good spot.
  • Website: thepalacetheatre.ca

• The King Eddy

  • Location: 438 9 Ave SE
  • Description: A legendary live music venue featuring local and touring artists, with a focus on blues, rock, and country.
  • Ticket Costs: $10–$50.
  • Tips: Enjoy a meal at the venue’s restaurant before the show.
  • Website: kingeddy.ca

• Broken City

  • Location: 613 11 Ave SW
  • Description: A hub for Calgary’s indie music scene, also hosting comedy nights and open mics.
  • Ticket Costs: $5–$20.
  • Tips: Check their weekly schedule for free or low-cost events.
  • Website: brokencity.ca

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3. Art Galleries

Calgary’s art galleries showcase a mix of contemporary, Indigenous, and traditional art.

Key Venues:

• Glenbow Museum (Reopening in 2024)

  • Location: 130 9 Ave SE
  • Description: A major cultural institution featuring art, history, and Indigenous exhibits.
  • Ticket Costs: $10–$18 (free for children under 12).
  • Tips: Visit during free admission days (check their website for dates).
  • Website: glenbow.org

• Contemporary Calgary

  • Location: 701 11 St SW
  • Description: A modern art gallery housed in a former planetarium, showcasing contemporary art exhibitions.
  • Ticket Costs: $10–$15 (free for children under 12).
  • Tips: Thursday evenings often feature discounted or free admission.
  • Website: contemporarycalgary.com

• Esker Foundation

  • Location: 1011 9 Ave SE
  • Description: A free contemporary art gallery featuring rotating exhibitions.
  • Ticket Costs: Free.
  • Tips: Take advantage of their free guided tours and workshops.
  • Website: eskerfoundation.com

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4. Museums

Calgary’s museums offer a deep dive into the city’s history, culture, and science.

Key Venues:

• Heritage Park Historical Village

  • Location: 1900 Heritage Dr SW
  • Description: A living history museum showcasing life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s.
  • Ticket Costs: $20–$35.
  • Tips: Visit during summer for full access to rides and attractions.
  • Website: heritagepark.ca

• Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre

  • Location: 850 4 St SE
  • Description: A museum dedicated to Canadian music history, with interactive exhibits and live performances.
  • Ticket Costs: $15–$20.
  • Tips: Check their schedule for free admission days and live music events.
  • Website: studiobell.ca

• The Military Museums

  • Location: 4520 Crowchild Trail SW
  • Description: Canada’s second-largest military museum, covering the country’s military history.
  • Ticket Costs: $5–$15.
  • Tips: Free admission on Remembrance Day (November 11).
  • Website: themilitarymuseums.ca

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5. Festivals and Cultural Events

Calgary hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and film to food and culture.

Key Events:

• Calgary Stampede

  • When: Early July
  • Description: Known as "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," this 10-day event features rodeos, concerts, parades, and more.
  • Ticket Costs: $18–$50 for general admission; additional costs for rodeo and concert tickets.
  • Tips: Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
  • Website: calgarystampede.com

• Calgary Folk Music Festival

  • When: Late July
  • Location: Prince’s Island Park
  • Ticket Costs: $60–$200 (multi-day passes available).
  • Tips: Bring a blanket or low chair for seating.
  • Website: calgaryfolkfest.com

• Beakerhead

  • When: September
  • Description: A festival blending art, science, and engineering, featuring interactive exhibits and performances.
  • Ticket Costs: Free to $50, depending on the event.
  • Website: beakerhead.com

• GlobalFest

  • When: August
  • Location: Elliston Park
  • Description: A multicultural festival with fireworks, cultural pavilions, and performances.
  • Ticket Costs: $10–$25.
  • Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the fireworks.
  • Website: globalfest.ca

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6. Tips for Navigating Calgary’s Arts and Culture Scene

• Ticketing Procedures:
  Most venues and events offer online ticketing through their official websites or platforms like Ticketmaster. For smaller venues, tickets may be available at the door, but it’s best to book in advance for popular events.

• Operating Hours:
  Galleries and museums typically operate from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some offering extended hours on Thursdays or Fridays. Performance venues usually host evening shows starting around 7:00 PM.

• Local Recommendations:

  • Explore the Inglewood and Beltline neighborhoods for independent galleries and live music spots.
  • Check out Calgary’s public art installations, such as the "Wonderland" sculpture at The Bow building.

• Etiquette:

  • Arrive on time for performances; latecomers may not be seated until intermission.
  • Silence your phone and avoid taking photos during performances unless explicitly allowed.

• Transportation:
  Calgary Transit (buses and C-Trains) is a convenient way to reach most venues. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel.

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Calgary’s arts and entertainment scene is as diverse as its population, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of theatre, music, or visual arts, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy in this dynamic city!