Citadel Theatre Reveals Exciting 61st Season Program in Edmonton
Fresh from celebrating six remarkable decades of theatrical excellence with a special retrospective gala, Edmonton's premier performing arts venue, the Citadel Theatre, has officially unveiled its ambitious lineup for the upcoming 61st season. The announcement comes as the theatre continues its current production of Death of a Salesman, which interestingly also featured in the Citadel's inaugural 1965/1966 season, creating a beautiful historical parallel.
Artistic Director Reflects on Legacy and Future
Daryl Cloran, the theatre's artistic director for nearly a decade, shared his enthusiasm while currently directing Death of a Salesman, which runs through February 15th. "It's profoundly significant that sixty years ago, visionary individuals believed in the importance of theatre and recognized that Edmonton deserved a venue of this magnitude and quality," Cloran reflected. "Looking back at Citadel's numerous achievements, both locally with Edmonton audiences and through its international recognition, has been truly inspiring."
Mainstage Productions: From Classic Literature to Broadway Favorites
The forthcoming season, aptly titled From Here to Everywhere, features six compelling mainstage productions that promise to captivate diverse audiences. The lineup includes:
- Murder on the Orient Express - Ken Ludwig's adaptation of Agatha Christie's classic mystery
- The Great Gatsby - F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic Jazz Age novel brought to life
- Annie - The beloved family musical about the optimistic orphan
- Sense & Sensibility - Jane Austen's timeless romantic drama
- The Comeback - A co-production with National Arts Centre Indigenous Theatre
- Come From Away - The heartwarming musical about 7,000 stranded air travelers welcomed in Gander, Newfoundland during 9/11
Experimental Highwire Series and Holiday Tradition
This season's experimental Highwire Series will showcase two innovative productions: Our Little Secret: A True, New Musical by Noam Tomaschoff and the interactive Mrs. Krishnan's Party. Additionally, the cherished holiday tradition A Christmas Carol returns, continuing its reliable seasonal presence much like Edmonton's winter preparations.
Season Highlights and Artistic Insights
The summer opener, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (July 4 - August 2, 2026), promises delightful audience engagement. "It's incredibly charming and humorous," Cloran explained. "The production incorporates audience participation in a lighthearted, non-intimidating manner, with opportunities for spectators to join the spelling bee on stage. It's a wonderful evening of cheering for underdogs accompanied by exceptionally catchy music."
Regarding Murder on the Orient Express (September 19 - October 11), Cloran noted the strong public demand for murder mysteries. "This adaptation brilliantly captures Agatha Christie's classic detective story while adding a contemporary comic sensibility," he said. "It exists in the same realm as popular Netflix mysteries like Glass Onion, and presents a stunning theatrical achievement with its elaborate train set and period costumes."
The Highwire Series production Our Little Secret: A True, New Musical (October 15-25) offers particularly personal storytelling. "This one-person show features playwright-performer Noam Tomaschoff sharing his authentic experience," Cloran revealed. "After taking a 23andMe ancestry test, he discovered his father wasn't his biological parent and that he has 35 siblings worldwide. The show has enjoyed successful runs at Toronto Fringe, Edinburgh Fringe, and Montreal's Segal Centre before arriving in Edmonton."
Detailed information about the complete season schedule, ticket availability, and special programming is accessible through the Citadel Theatre's official website. The 61st season represents both a celebration of the theatre's distinguished history and an exciting glimpse into its vibrant future, continuing Edmonton's rich cultural legacy through diverse theatrical experiences.
