In a fear-ruled kingdom, a young shepherd dares to face a giant and the darkness behind him. His courage awakens a nation, proving true strength comes from trust, not power.
Discover our Upcoming Paint & Sip Event! No Experience Necessary
Get ready for a fun, social painting experience at the Empress Theatre! Explore this upcoming event, featuring a unique cozy painting theme in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. No prior art skills are needed—just bring your enthusiasm and creativity. Whether you’re attending solo, with friends, or celebrating a special occasion, this event is perfect for all. Enjoy music, drinks, and the chance to create a masterpiece to take home. REGISTER HERE
Marty Mauser, a cocky, gifted hustler and top table tennis player in 1950s New York, navigates a world of high-stakes tournaments in London and Tokyo, hustling for cash, getting entangled with a pregnant friend and a wealthy magnate's wife, all while pursuing elusive greatness in a sport few take seriously.
PART OF THE 2025-26 CENTRE STAGE SERIES - Women-led Flamenco Mediterranean Fusion. Tamar Ilana & Ventanas is a 6-piece global music and flamenco band based in Toronto, Canada. Founded in 2011 by "powerhouse vocalist" (Downbeat Magazine) and Jewish-Indigenous artist Tamar Ilana, they've received 4 CFMA nominations, and toured across Canada, the US, Colombia, Portugal, Ireland and Spain. They released their 4th album, AZADI, in 2024: original compositions that reflect on life’s freedoms with strong influences from their unique combination of cultural and musical backgrounds including Flamenco, Sephardic, Balkan, Greek, Turkish, Jazz, Pop, Classical and Mediterranean folk. BUY TICKETS
PART OF THE 2025-26 CENTRE STAGE SERIES - Lennie Gallant is an acclaimed East Coast songwriter with sixteen albums of original material to his name and a long list of awards recognizing his work. His iconic song Peter’s Dream was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and his songwriting has reached audiences around the world—quite literally. One of his albums even accompanied astronauts aboard the International Space Station, orbiting Earth 248 times. Over the years, he has shared the stage with symphony orchestras and performed alongside numerous well-known artists, including the late Jimmy Buffett. BUY TICKETS
She’s authentic. She’s a songstress. She’s a cowgirl. And she is the best kept secret of the west. As last year’s winner of the coveted Rising Star Search at Canada’s most storied country club - Ranchman’s - Morgan’s talented has been on full display with a steady stream of high impact performances across the west including two memorable shows at Country Thunder Alberta, and The Big Valley Jamboree. With sharp wit, a dazzling smile, genuine cowgirl cred, and a voice that can belt out anything from Led Zeppelin to Dolly Parton, it’s no wonder Morgan’s brand has been so appealing to her ever-growing fan base. Her latest album Hardgrass Country was just voted Album of the Year at the 2025 Country Music Alberta Awards! BUY TICKETS
Looking for a night that’s anything but ordinary? Join Canada’s very own UnConventional Medium, Jennie Ogilvie, for an evening filled with laughter, connection, and the unexpected. Often referred to as the Comedian Medium, Jennie blends heartfelt messages from spirit with her signature humor, proving that healing can come through both laughter and tears. This isn’t just a show—it’s an experience. Jennie connects with the spirit world in a way that’s raw, real, and refreshingly unscripted. Each event is unique, with spontaneous messages and stories that will amaze and inspire you. Whether you’re seeking comfort, curious about the afterlife, or simply looking for a night to remember, Jennie will leave you with a renewed sense of wonder and a new perspective on life, death, and everything in between. BUY TICKETS
Valdy, is a Canadian folk and country music legend who has toured for forty-six years. HIs solo career began in the early 1970s. He is most known for "Rock and Roll Song", his first mainstream single but Valdy has a treasure trove of songs and stories. He is the winner of two JUNO awards including Folksinger of the Year and Folk Entertainer of the Year. His fourteen albums, including four which are certified gold, have achieved sales of nearly half a million copies. BUY TICKETS
PART OF THE 2025-26 CENTRE STAGE SERIES - Eighteen years ago a number of Ian Tyson's one time sidemen, collaborators and musical admirers came together under the banner of The Gift - Words and Music of Ian Tyson. The Gift rolls through 50 years of Tyson's catalogue, finding room for songs going back to the days of Ian and Sylvia and The Great Speckled Bird, through Ian's honky-tonk years, while making room for a large slice of the cowboy culture music that is heard on albums from Old Corrals and Sagebrush, Cowboyography, 18 Inches of Rain, I Outgrew The Saddle and Songs From The Gravel Road. BUY TICKETS
Called one of Canada’s Top 5 Female Jazz Singers and Top 35 under 35 Jazz Artists by CBC Radio 2, Lica’s deep passion for the music of classic American vocalists like Doris Day, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Nat King Cole, and Betty Hutton led her to pursue a degree in Jazz Voice Performance at the University of Toronto. Barbra has received accolades for a unique stage approach that stresses subtlty, grace and storytelling, captivating audiences with her genuine warmth and confidence. BUY TICKETS
(18+ Only) A fictitious male stripper troupe (played by some of Canada’s best improv comedians) perform sexylarious comedy. Semi undressed and completely unscripted, they take off their shirts and take on your suggestions to create a whole new genre of comedy. They try to be sexy… it just comes out funny. They sing, they “dance”, and they are ready to make you laugh. A SHOW FOR ALL GENDERS… (Adults Only) WARNING! No extreme nudity, just extreme hilarity. BUY TICKETS
Since emigrating to Canada in 2002, Chris Ronald has been recognized as a highly skilled singer, storyteller and musician. His fusion of folk, roots, and Americana music are steeped in his British background and poetic lyrics. One of these early works caught the attention of The Georgia Straight who praised Ronald’s songwriting and “beautifully clear tenor voice” and wondered “where his obvious talent has been hiding for so long.” His sophomore album Timeline catapulted Ronald to a new level in his career with, among other accolades, a nomination for “Songwriter of the Year” at the Canadian Folk Music Awards. Ronald was then signed to esteemed Canadian folk label Borealis Records to release Fragments followed by Light & Dark. Both albums achieved top 10 on the The Folk Chart. BUY TICKETS
PART OF THE 2025-26 CENTRE STAGE SERIES - For nearly two decades, Delhi 2 Dublin has been at the forefront of South Asian fusion music, pioneering a global bass sound they call “Subcontinental Pop”—a high-energy blend of Bhangra, electronic, hip-hop, reggae, and Celtic influences that defies genre and unites dance floors worldwide. As they approach their monumental 20th anniversary in 2026, the band is re-energized, re-inspired, and ready to launch a bold new chapter, creating fresh music for the first time in six years. Founding members Sanjay Seran and Ravi Binning continue to lead the charge, pushing Delhi 2 Dublin’s sound and vision to new heights. BUY TICKETS
A salute to one Canada's most celebrated songwriters - Troubadour "The Songs of Gordon Lightfoot" with Duane Steele and a killer band, brings the timeless music and story of Gordon Lightfoot to life on our stage with amazing songs, multi-media images, and wonderful stories about Gordon's life and career. We guarantee you’ll leave the theatre humming Sundown, Carefree Highway, If You Could Read My Mind and a ton of other great Lightfoot hits. Amazing harmonies, rich storytelling, and a night that feels like coming home. BUY TICKETS
Back by popular demand, Ikons: the Kiss Experience will rock Fort Macleod’s Empress Theatre once again. This authentic concert experience is guaranteed to satisfy even the most diehard Kiss fans. Beginning in the 1970s, with chart-toppers including “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” and “Beth”, Kiss is known for its members’ face paint and stage outfits and its pyrotechnics. Come experience the Starchild, the Demon, the Spaceman, and the Catman. You just might think it’s the real deal once you see Ikons’ authentic looks, moves and music. BUY TICKETS
Join us for a week for young creators who are ready to move, express, and make an impact. Theatre on the Move introduces kids to the dynamic world where movement speaks louder than words and every gesture tells a story. Through playful exploration of mime, puppetry, clowning, and expressive movement, campers will create original theatre pieces from their own point of view. Using basic props and physical attitudes, they’ll discover how to communicate powerful ideas, challenge perspectives, and amplify the world they live in. We will be looking a staging, society, chorus work, rhythm and dynamic play. Whether it's a stomp, a spin, or a silent stare, every motion matters. ENROLL HERE
Step into the captivating world of magic, mind-reading, comedy, and a daring escape with Mind Bender's electrifying live show - The Experience!
Now touring across Canada - including a special stop in Alberta, right here in Fort Macleod! The Experience is a high-energy, interactive spectacle that blurs the line between reality and illusion. From impossible feats to mentalism to Mind Bender's shocking body bag escape, this is a show you have to see to believe. Are you ready to witness the impossible? BUY TICKETS
Step into a world where imagination takes center stage and characters come to life—no strings attached! This hands-on, high-energy summer camp invites kids to explore the art of puppetry through rod and hand puppets in a week packed with creativity, laughter, and storytelling. Campers will learn voice techniques and character development, rehearse and perform original puppet skits, play theater games that boost confidence and teamwork, and howcase their creations in a final performance for family and friends! This camp hits the Empress stage with the discovery of self-expression, collaboration, and unforgettable summer memories. ENROLL HERE
A week of fun, connection and creative discovery. Through games and scenes, we’ll explore spontaneity, storytelling, physicality, character and presence. What Will You Learn? Ensemble techniques to strengthen group mind and trust, haracter creation and physical embodiment, status play and emotional range, improvised storytelling and narrative structure, performance polish and stage confidence, spontaneity, listening, and responding in the moment. Each day features a mix of group work, scene practice, games and exercises. ENROLL HERE
Come jam with us in an absolutely joy-filled space where we focus on safety, story, and style — and maybe make a few new friends along the way. This camp joins slapstick and farce together! We will slip on items on the ground, trip over low-lying props, walk into unseen objects, accidentally run into characters, be hit by moving objects held by other performers, and sit on chairs removed beneath us for another purpose. We are going to have a blast together! ENROLL HERE
Want to rob from the rich to give to the poor? While the King is away, the people of England suffer under the oppressive rule of his tax-happy brother, Prince John. Only a straight arrow like Robin Hood, the best archer in the land, can save England! By stealing from the rich and giving back to the poor, Robin keeps the spirit of justice alive, with the help of a few friends along the way, including Maid Marian, Friar Tuck, and Little John. But what if the Prince and the dreaded Sheriff of Nottingham lay a trap for our hero? Join us to find out! Come away to Sherwood Forest this winter as the greenwood rings with daring and laughter! ENROLL HERE
What happens when Shakespeare’s most famous love story gets a comedic twist? In this high-energy, one-week theatre program, teens will reimagine Romeo and Juliet as a hilarious, modern-day parody—complete with awkward love confessions, over-the-top sword fights (pool noodles, anyone? Or do you have an even better idea?), and a dramatic nurse who moonlights as a TikTok influencer. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just curious about theatre, this program is designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and deliver big laughs. ENROLL HERE
Step into a time machine and relive the magic of the swinging 60's with Calgary's premier Beatles tribute band! All You Need Is Love - A Tribute to The Fab Four offers an authentic homage to the greatest band of all time. They captivate audiences with the remarkable musical energy and the infectious wit and humor that cemented The Beatles as legendary icons. The performance begins in 1964 and continues until 1969. It will captivate you with the band's hit songs and the lively banter among the members and with the audience, which made their shows so delightful to watch. BUY TICKETS
National Popcorn Day. Get a FREE small popcorn with the purchase of a movie ticket on Jan. 19. The movie will be “David” - check listings for movie details.
Anaconda is the story of two middle-aged guys played by Paul Rudd and Jack Black who finally decide to fulfill a lifelong dream: remaking the ’90s horror film Anaconda. When their hired anaconda dies, they go into the jungle in search of new snakes, and encounter a giant anaconda like the one in the movie Anaconda.
Detectives Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde find themselves on the twisting trail of a mysterious reptile who turns the mammal metropolis of Zootopia upside down. Testing their growing partnership like never before, they go under cover in new parts of town to crack the case.
An animated adventure comedy where SpongeBob sets out to prove his bravery by following the ghost pirate, the Flying Dutchman, to the deepest parts of the ocean.
A story about a fractured mother-daughter relationship, Morgan and Clara, that completely shatters after a tragic accident reveals a devastating secret: Morgan's husband and Clara's father, Chris, was having an affair with Morgan's sister, Jenny. The accident kills both Chris and Jenny, leaving Morgan and Clara to cope with grief and betrayal.
A real Christmas classic, Miracle of 34th Street opens with one of New York’s most prolific department stores on the brink of collapse, with their only hope of survival being their upcoming Christmas season. When the Santa they’ve hired quits at the last minute, they’re left with a kind bearded gentleman who is convinced he’s the real deal and will the day. However, when he is arrested, the fate of Christmas falls into the hands of six-year-old Susan who must restore the world’s belief in Santa Claus. Tickets are Free (Donations Welcomed)
Step into the wonder of the first Christmas with our community production, A Night in the Stable. This beautiful live nativity experience brings together music, storytelling, and heartfelt performances from local children and families. Admission is free, but seating is limited. To ensure your spot, please reserve in advance. We can’t wait to share this special evening with you and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas together.
The second part of the Wicked film adaptation, picking up after Elphaba becomes the "Wicked Witch of the West" and Glinda becomes "Glinda the Good". The film follows the estranged friends as they grapple with their new roles, a totalitarian Oz, and a public that sees them as enemies, culminating in a confrontation that seals their fates.
Christmas in Fort Macleod is a magical time of year filled with festive things to see and do, from enchanting light trails and festive shows to winter markets and Christmas festivities all over town. December 12th, come sing along to the best Christmas songs and popular Christmas carols in Fort Macleod at the Empress Theatre for a traditional carol celebration this festive season. Hear Christmas carols performed by live choirs from right here in our community. Whether you’re a regular in church or only step into one occasionally to admire the architecture, we can all agree that hearing ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ or ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ during Yuletide just hits different. Christmas isn’t Christmas without carol concerts. In between all the of the chaos and hubbub of the festive season, from gift shopping to light displays, festivals and big events, this carol celebration offers a welcome moment of respite and reflection. Admission is Free.
A 2025 biopic about the making of Bruce Springsteen's 1982 album, Nebraska. The film focuses on the period following the The River tour, when Springsteen struggled with the pressure of fame and his own inner demons. He records the album in his New Jersey bedroom, creating a raw, acoustic work inspired by his troubled past and a desire to retreat from the spotlight. The movie also explores his complicated relationships with his father and manager, Jon Landau.
The long running and celebrated McDade Family Christmas show is finally coming to the Empress Theatre. Alberta’s first family of Celtic music invite you to join them in celebration. Bringing you a Celtic Christmas, The McDades offer you and yours their heartfelt comfort and joy of the season. The McDade Family’s rich blend of soaring vocal harmonies, acoustic instrumentation and energetic fiddle tunes will leave you with the feeling that Christmas is here. Spend an evening enjoying a holiday tradition while listening to seasonal classics as well as some rare gems. Join us for great music and good cheer! . BUY TICKETS
One Battle After Another follows Bob Ferguson (Leonardo DiCaprio), a former revolutionary living in hiding with his daughter, Willa. Their lives are upended when his nemesis, Colonel Lockjaw (Sean Penn), resurfaces to hunt them, forcing Bob to confront his past to protect his daughter. The story involves Bob seeking help from his old group of revolutionaries to find Willa after she goes missing.
The Herdmans are six siblings who have a reputation for being the worst kids in the world. However, when they take over the local church pageant during the holidays, they just might teach a shocked community the true meaning of Christmas.
Everyone knows that, each Christmas, Santa Claus delivers presents to every last child on Earth. What everyone doesn't know is that Santa accomplishes the feat with a very high-tech operation beneath the North Pole. But when the unthinkable happens, and Santa misses one child out of hundreds of millions, someone has to save the day. It's up to Arthur (James McAvoy), Santa's youngest son, to deliver a present to the forgotten tyke before Christmas morning dawns.
Come celebrate Moonlight Madness this magical season at the Empress Theatre with a night of painting and crafts with local artist Dani and create those warm, christmas fuzzy vibes in your own home. On this special night there are two activities offered: 1. Wintery Painting 9x12 canvas, $40 per artist - adults only. 2. Artsy Elves Table $10 per artist Come & Go Table (No Registration REGISTER FOR PAINTING HERE
The movie Good Fortune is a comedy about a struggling gig worker and a wealthy venture capitalist who swap lives due to the intervention of an inept angel. ( Dark Night - Nov 21 One Act Play Festival)
The Empress Theatre is thrilled to be hosting it’s first, One-day-One Act Play Festival, on Friday November 21st. We are hoping that this Festival will grow and become an annual tradition at the Empress. This year will feature a mixture with an established play and a fresh new work from up-and-coming devised performers. These are two different performances in one evening by directors from Fort Macleod. The festival is not an adjudicated competition. At the end of the evening, the audiences are invited to the green room to share impressions and ask questions about the performances with the cast and directors. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience two plays in a day, discover new voices, and enjoy discussions and feedback with both casts. We look forward to seeing you there!
Now You See Me: Now You Don't is a 2025 crime thriller where the Four Horsemen illusionists reunite with a new generation of performers for a high-stakes, globe-trotting heist. Their mission is to expose a powerful diamond heiress who is secretly linked to arms dealers and other criminals. The film features intricate magic, the franchise's signature twists and turns, and includes both returning and new cast members.
PART OF THE 2025-26 CENTRE STAGE SERIES - Madison Violet is a Canadian Juno-nominated female musical duo, consisting of Lisa MacIsaac and Brenley MacEachern. 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of Madison Violet. A rare and impressive feat that they are both proud of and grateful for. The pair, who both have roots in rural Cape Breton, came together musically in the late 1990s. Influenced by their maritime heritage, Brenley and Lisa began creating music together that had roots firmly planted in their past, but with contemporary and modern elements generously overlaid. Categorizing Madison Violet’s music is an impossible task, in that one can hear elements of folk, singer-songwriter, pop, indie, bluegrass, and country flawlessly interwoven throughout. BUY TICKETS
Grab your lederhosen and get ready to raise a stein - Fort Macleod’s most festive fundraiser returns on Saturday, October 18! This Oktoberfest bash is brought to you by a powerhouse partnership between the Fort Macleod Public Library and the Empress Theatre — one incredible team, two amazing causes, and a whole lot of fun! Expect a night packed with: .Delicious Dinner .Live Entertainment .Games & Shenanigans .Silent Auction .Live Auction .Drinks Galore .And a whole lot of FUN! BUY TICKETS
PART OF THE 2025-26 CENTRE STAGE SERIES - Singer-songwriter pianist Jeffery Straker serves up a rootsy-storytelling brand of song that has been said to transport listeners - out onto a northern Canadian Lake or to the main street of a prairie town. With critical comparisons to the likes of Kris Kristofferson, Jackson Browne and Murray McLauchlan he was awarded the 2025 Canadian Folk Music Award for ‘Contemporary Canadian Folk Singer of the Year’. Wherever he performs his audience connections are stand-out and CBC Radio has said: “He has a way of drawing us into his world and making us feel like we’re an old friend he’s ready to catch up with”. BUY TICKETS
John Wort Hannam has been on his roots-fueled troubadour journey for two decades, spinning song writing gold from the chaff of the lives he has encountered and within his fertile imagination. Twenty two years into his career, he shows no sign of slowing down. In fact, he appears to be gaining both momentum and a wider audience, winning two 2023 Canadian Folk Music Awards for Solo Artist of the Year and Contemporary Album of the Year. Add to this, two of the finest Canadian instrumentalists - Scott Duncan on fiddle (The Wardens, Barrage) and Jason Valleau on upright bass (The PolyJesters, Blake Reid Band) - and you have the John Wort Hannam Trio. With their three-part harmonies and intricate playing, it’s easy to see why audiences and critics alike hear something special in this trio’s narrative, lyrically driven songs. BUY TICKETS
This summer, we’re flipping Shakespeare on his head – literally. Welcome to ‘HAMLET…A Comedy”, a one-of-a-kind environmental comedy drama camp where the world’s most dramatic prince becomes the star of his very own remix. Existential dead? Sure. Ghost dads? Absolutely. But this time we’re serving it up with punchlines, pratfalls and perfectly timed plot twists.
Ready to rewrite the classics with TikTok energy and mem-worthy moments? ZChaos!, is a fast-paced theatre camp where we flip the script on some iconic stories and perform them like never before. This summer we’re diving into ‘Frankenstein’ and ‘A Christmas Carol’ – think monster science with attitude, and ghosts who know how to ghost!
Campers will explore the topsy-turvy world of Wonderland. The weeklong day camp is full of theatre games, character building, silly scenes and costuming – all leading up to a delightful showcase for family, friends and the community of Fort MacLeod. Whether your child is bold and dramatic or just starting to explore their imagination, this camp is a welcoming place to build confidence and have fun.
Get ready to jump into a world of flying, dreaming and day dreaming! In ‘Pan, Poppies, & Pure Imagination’, campers will explore scenes from Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz and Willy Wonka – three of the most magical stories ever told. From Neverland to Munchkin land to the Chocolate factory, we’ll act, move, and imagine our way through colorful characters and unforgettable moment.
Fleeing from the Evil Queen, Snow White finds refuge with Dopey, Bashful, Grumpy, Sneezy, Happy, Doc and Sleepy. When the palace guards embark on a mission to bring her back, a commoner and his group of woodland bandits band together to protect her.
Levon Cade left behind a decorated military career in the black ops to live a simple life of working construction. However, when human traffickers kidnap his boss's daughter, his search to bring her home uncovers a world of corruption far greater than he ever could have imagined.
Stage Fright - The Def Leppard Experience performs hit after hit, and fan favorite deep tracks from the UK rock band - Def Leppard. With tons of Def Leppard song material in their vault, Stage Fright entertains audiences, and keep the party rocking !! Every show has won over the hearts of Def Leppard fans time and time again !! From past Def Leppard live tour's wardrobe changes and vintage looking guitars / stage props to the incredible loud and proud sound execution of song after song. Stage Fright - The Def Leppard Experience delivers every time !
A mysterious portal pulls four misfits into the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they'll have to master the terrain while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected crafter named Steve.
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