Edmonton's Weekend Arts Scene: William Prince, Wizard of Oz, and Bitters
Edmonton's cultural landscape comes alive this weekend with a diverse array of entertainment options, from award-winning music to beloved theatrical productions and intimate brewery performances.
William Prince: A Voice of Calm Returns to Edmonton
Double Juno Award-winner William Prince brings his distinctive country sound to the Jubilee Auditorium this Friday night at 8 p.m. The Peguis First Nation artist holds special significance for Edmonton audiences, having been the first performer to reopen the Edmonton Folk Music Festival after pandemic restrictions lifted.
Prince's career continues to ascend with his fifth album Further from the Country serving as the foundation for his current tour. His credentials include a sold-out show at Toronto's legendary Massey Hall, a performance at the prestigious Newport Folk Festival, and an appearance on NPR's Tiny Desk concert series.
"This wistful, straightforward singer wears his heart on his sleeve," notes local critics, making his performance particularly resonant for those seeking authentic musical experiences. Tickets are priced at $47.50 and available through the Jubilee Auditorium website.
The Wizard of Oz: A Timeless Tale Comes to Life
The Citadel Theatre presents a vibrant stage adaptation of the beloved film The Wizard of Oz, running from Saturday through April 12. While the production is twice removed from L. Frank Baum's original 1900 novel, it faithfully captures the magical essence that has captivated generations.
The cast features Chariz Faulmino as Dorothy, Nadine Whiteman as the Wicked Witch, and John Ullyatt as the Wizard himself. Two canine performers, Koko and Scooby, alternate in the role of Toto under the direction of Thom Allison.
Audience members are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the production, with ruby slippers welcome at this family-friendly musical. The runtime extends to two hours and forty minutes with a twenty-minute intermission, recommended for ages six and above. Tickets begin at $86 through the Citadel Theatre website.
Bitters: Intimate Sounds at Southbound Brewery
For those seeking a more casual evening, Emily Bachynski brings her solo project Bitters to Southbound Brewery. Known for her work with Bad Buddy, Bachynski's "heart-bursting" solo performance offers an intimate musical experience.
The evening is enhanced by a special pop-up from Cheese Louise sandwiches, featuring creations like The Pickle Vick with cheddar, mozzarella, dill aioli, and chopped pickles. This combination of local music and artisanal food creates a perfect weekend outing in Edmonton's brewery district.
Edmonton's arts community continues to demonstrate its resilience and creativity, offering residents multiple avenues for cultural engagement this weekend. From large-scale theatrical productions to intimate musical performances, there's something for every artistic taste in the city.
