Corb Lund's Easter Road Trip: Music, Beer, and Environmental Advocacy
Country music artist Corb Lund is spearheading a unique Easter weekend initiative across Alberta, blending advocacy, live performances, and community engagement. Frustrated with provincial government actions that permit foreign coal mining operations in the Rockies—which risk contaminating groundwater with toxic selenium—Lund has launched the Water Not Coal citizen petition. This effort aims to protect water sources for wildlife, livestock, and human populations.
The tour kicks off in Edmonton on Friday, with a series of whistle stops designed to raise awareness and gather signatures. Lund will begin at noon outside St. Albert Place, followed by visits to Element Outfitters at 1:30 p.m., Earth’s Refillery Coop at 2:30 p.m., McIntyre Park at 3:30 p.m., and Replenish Zero Waste at 5 p.m. The day concludes with a celebratory event at Southbound Brewing from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., offering a chance for supporters to connect over music and local beer.
Expanding Across Alberta: Saturday Stops and Beyond
On Saturday, the tour moves to central Alberta, starting at Moose Hall in Ponoka at 10 a.m., then heading to the Scott Block Theatre in Red Deer at 11:30 a.m. Later, Lund will travel to Calgary for additional engagements, culminating in a concert in Longview. The full schedule is available at coalpetition.ca, encouraging residents to participate, learn about the environmental issues, and stand up for clean water initiatives. This grassroots movement highlights the intersection of art and activism, leveraging Lund's platform to address critical ecological concerns.
Easter-Themed Entertainment: Film Screenings and Cultural Offerings
In keeping with the Easter spirit, Norman Jewison's 1973 musical Jesus Christ Superstar offers a bold reinterpretation of the crucifixion story. This rock opera, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, presents the narrative through a desert theatre troupe, blending funky and terrifying elements. For those who have never experienced it on the big screen, a special screening is scheduled for Friday, providing a unique cinematic opportunity.
Additionally, film enthusiasts can enjoy a double feature of Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part One and Part Two at Metro on Sunday. Screenings begin at 6:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., with tickets priced at $14 for a single film or $20 for both. This event serves as a precursor to the third film's release in December, offering fans a chance to immerse themselves in the epic sci-fi saga.
Community Engagement and Free Access
Lund's advocacy tour is free to attend, emphasizing inclusivity and broad participation. By combining music, beer, and environmental education, the initiative seeks to foster community dialogue and action. Meanwhile, the film screenings provide cultural enrichment during the Easter weekend, catering to diverse interests from classic musicals to modern blockbusters.
These events underscore Alberta's vibrant mix of activism and entertainment, inviting residents to engage with important issues while enjoying seasonal festivities. Whether supporting environmental causes or indulging in cinematic experiences, there are ample opportunities for connection and celebration across the province.
