Rosebud has many reasons to celebrate
By Laureen F. Guenther Times Contributor
Even in the pandemic year of 2021, Rosebud School of the Arts and Rosebud Theatre had many reasons to celebrate.
“First and foremost,” said Paul Muir, Rosebud’s Executive Director, in an email, “Rosebud Theatre & School of the Arts is still here! And a huge part of that is due to the generosity of our donors who have stepped up in incredible ways to ensure Rosebud Lives … between that and some support from both federal and provincial levels of government, Rosebud Theatre and Rosebud School of the Arts (RSA) are stepping into 2022 on solid ground.”
Rosebud Theatre was quiet in the spring season of 2021, instead hosting weekly summer outdoor concerts before presenting two shows for the fall and Christmas season. RSA also produced a Christmas show.
Guests, staff and performers followed AHS guidelines and as far as Muir is aware, no COVID spread was created by theatre events.
“In addition to that, RSA students had two wonderful and fruitful terms, full of learning and growth,” said Muir. “In many ways, the year seemed like a blessing in the midst of tremendous hardship and challenges.”
The greatest challenge was operating the organization without the usual revenue from theatre tickets. Some staff were laid off and others took on extra duties, leaving it up to the team to work together to overcome difficulties.
“We’ve now learned that we make plans knowing that it’s very likely we are going to have to pivot those plans to something else,” said Muir. “That pertains to the myriad of schedules that take place in Rosebud: to budgeting, to human resources and everything else in between.”
Pandemic challenges also offered an unexpected gift, an opportunity to refocus on their core mission. For Rosebud, Muir said, “We know that training the hearts and minds of young storytellers is central to who we are, as is sharing stories with the wider community.”
The gifts and challenges for Muir himself were perhaps even greater, as he served his first year as Executive Director while continuing his long-time role of Education Director. He’s also excited about what’s ahead in 2022.
Rosebud Theatre has lined up a full season of shows, starting with Grace and Glorie, opening April 1.
March 18-20 will feature performances of New Blood, as a partnership of RSA students and Siksika Nation performers use dance, music and poetry to tell a “residential school story that leads to freedom.”
This spring, there’ll also be a return performance of the award-winning Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me, but Banjos Saved My Life, created and performed by Keith Alessi.
Rosebud Theatre also plans to expand its summer offerings, including more concerts.
2022 seasons tickets are available, in packages of two to five shows, with the option of combining Opera House (mainstage) shows and student shows. See rosebudtheatre.com or call 1-800-267-7553 for information and tickets.
“I would like to extend a huge message of gratitude to all who donate or otherwise support Rosebud Theatre & School of the Arts,” said Muir expressing his gratitude to everyone who has supported Rosebud. “By making a donation, buying a ticket, sponsoring a student, starting a scholarship, or volunteering, you are not only supporting the arts and great storytelling, but you are also helping to cultivate the future of storytelling in Alberta and beyond.”