Written and performed by Kahlil Ashanti Basic Training chronicles Ashanti’s time on tour as a comedian, actor, dancer, and soldier while enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as a member of the elite entertainment troupe ‘Tops in Blue.’ Less than 24 hours before departing for boot camp, a life-altering event forces him home to face the childhood he was trying so hard to forget. A staggering twenty-three characters, all dexterously played by Ashanti, guide Audiences through this award-winning true story.

The Edmonton Poetry Festival swirls into town from April 21-28 with varied voices and current words all joining together. Over eight days, a dozen events will challenge and inspire, as special guests join local poets. There will be excitement and rapids in the stream, and pools of quiet contemplation. You can come to listen or share your work at an open mic. Volunteer. Learn in workshops. The river of voices has been flowing for generations—come and share the energy of what’s happening on the banks of right now!

The 116th Annual Edmonton Music & Speech Arts Festival (formerly known as the Edmonton Kiwanis Music Festival) creates over 2,500 opportunities for over 20,000 music students, actors, musicians, and music lovers to perform in front of an audience and receive professional adjudication. Performances are FREE to attend. Choirs will run April 15-19; Bands will run April 22-26; the regular Solo Festival will run April 20 – May 1. Come out and see the stars of tomorrow, and help us celebrate over 100 years of Festival!

The Ribbon Rouge Foundation proudly announces the debut of the Jabulani Arts Festival, a vibrant celebration of African, Caribbean, and Black Albertan culture. This inaugural event promises three days filled with captivating performances, engaging workshops, and stunning visual art. The spotlight of the festival shines on Ogboingba Tries to Change Her Fate by The Foundation’s ArtSpace Team, a new theatre work. This innovative production revitalizes a captivating folktale from the Ijaw people of Nigeria, immersing audiences in a tale where courage meets destiny. Witness as a courageous woman boldly confronts the creator, navigating a path of transformation and self-discovery. The festival also features a diverse array of artistic showcases, including a vibrant visual art exhibit, and dynamic dance and soul-stirring poetry showcases. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in interactive workshops, providing accessible avenues for community members to engage with the arts. Some events are free of charge, ensuring inclusivity and welcoming all members of the community to experience the magic of the Jabulani Arts Festival firsthand.

Watch the world premiere of Unir with Ballet Edmonton. The final piece for the 2023/24 season is choreographed by company dancer Connor McLeary. The idea of “struggle” is an overarching theme within this piece, exploring how personal struggle can manifest itself physically. The movement, the music and the minds of each Ballet Edmonton artist have played a part in how this work has evolved.

FOREIGNER, the band behind these iconic songs announces its historic Farewell Tour of Canada. Joined by Headpins, one of Canada’s 80’s hit-makers. The spectacular show will thrill audiences with stellar performances of chart-topping songs. The band will join radio partners to create a contest for local high school choirs to win the opportunity to perform a song live on stage with FOREIGNER, together with a donation to their music program.

Join ELOPE for one of Broadway’s most popular and powerful shows! Loosely based on Puccini’s La Boheme, RENT! tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive and create a life in Lower Manhattan’s East Village. The production is set during the thriving days of the bohemian culture of Alphabet City, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS.

Join ELOPE for one of Broadway’s most popular and powerful shows! Loosely based on Puccini’s La Boheme, RENT! tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive and create a life in Lower Manhattan’s East Village. The production is set during the thriving days of the bohemian culture of Alphabet City, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS.