The Citadel Theatre is proud to share our productions and our passion for theatre with school audiences from Edmonton and the surrounding communities. We offer special matinee performances for school groups for many of the productions in our season and consider these to be an essential part of our programming. We believe that all individuals should have the opportunity to experience, appreciate, and participate in live theatre. Sharing live theatre with new audiences, be they youths or adults, requires education and cooperation as it is a communal and participatory art form. The Citadel Theatre works to ensure that all patrons have a positive experience when visiting the theatre.
For school matinees, we rely heavily on the support of participating schools and teachers to ensure that students come to the theatre prepared to enjoy the production and be good audience members. The following information is provided to help you plan for your school’s visit to the Citadel Theatre. Please read through this information in detail.
Please be aware that the age recommendations and content advisories provided are subjective and have been thoughtfully prepared by Citadel Theatre staff. However, we understand that individuals may engage with content in different ways. We encourage patrons to consider their own comfort levels, as well as the suitability for any accompanying youth, before attending. We will do our best to provide age recommendations and any applicable warnings in advance; however, things are subject to change at the Director’s discretion during the rehearsal process.
Some productions in the Citadel’s 2025/26 season may have a limited number of/no school matinees scheduled. If schools express enough interest, additional matinee performances may be added. Alternatively, group tickets to an evening performance can also be arranged. Any questions that you have about School Matinees can be directed to groupbookings@citadeltheatre.com.
2025/26 SHOW DESCRIPTIONS
The following productions have scheduled school matinees. Please note that all run times are approximate. The most up-to-date run times will be communicated in your booking confirmation and reminder emails prior to your performance. Dates are listed below.
October 1, and 3, 2025 11:30AM
Shoctor Theatre
Recommended Ages: 14+
Approximate run time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission)
Warning: This production contains mature content and violence. Scenes of simulated animal ferocity, fighting and attacks, depicted by life-like puppets. Depictions of animal death, murder and implied cannibalism. Scenes featuring a storm and shipwreck. Theatrical effects (including theatrical haze, flashing lights, loud sounds.) Not recommended for younger children.
LIFE OF PI
Based on the novel by Yann Martel
Adapted by Lolita Chakrabarti
Directed by Haysam Kadri
In Partnership with Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre
Life of Pi brings Yann Martel’s acclaimed novel to life in a visually stunning and emotionally captivating theatrical experience. The story follows Pi Patel, a young Indian boy who survives a shipwreck and is left stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean with only a Royal Bengal tiger named Richard Parker for company. As Pi struggles to survive in the vast, unforgiving ocean, he confronts the limits of his faith, his resilience, and his understanding of the world. The stage adaptation immerses audiences in Pi’s extraordinary journey, blending breathtaking visuals, puppetry, and immersive storytelling to bring the ocean, the tiger, and Pi’s incredible survival to vivid life. As Pi recounts his tale to skeptical officials, the play explores themes of faith, identity, and the power of storytelling, leaving audiences to question the nature of truth and belief.
November 19, 2025 11:30AM
Shoctor Theatre
Recommended Ages: 8+
Approximate run time: 2 hours and 10 mins (including 20-minute intermission)
Note: Timing is approximate as this is a new work
Act I: 60 mins, Intermission: 20 mins, Act II: 50 mins
Warning: This production contains mild language and themes relating to adult relationships and everyday life, presented in a light and humorous way.
VINYL CAFE: THE MUSICAL
Based on the Vinyl Cafe Stories by Stuart McLean
Music by Colleen Dauncey
Lyrics by Akiva Romer-Segal
Book by Georgina Escobar with Jess Milton
Directed by Daryl Cloran
The world premiere of a holiday musical for the whole family based on Stuart McLean’s beloved Vinyl Cafe stories. The musical weaves together some of McLean’s most popular stories, such as: “Dave Cooks the Turkey” and “Rashida, Amir and the Great Gift-Giving” into a hilarious celebration of the highs and lows of the holiday season and the importance of community and family.
November 25 and 26, December 3, 10, and 17, 2025 11:30AM
Maclab Theatre
Recommended Ages: 6+
Approximate Run time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (including 20 minute intermission)
Act I: 55 minutes, Intermission: 20 minutes, Act II: 55 minutes
Warning: A Christmas Carol is a ghost story and contains frightening scenes (including jump scares) that may not be suitable for younger children, and contains theatrical effects (including theatrical haze, dry ice fog, flashing lights, bright lights, loud sounds, use of pyrotechnics).
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
By David van Belle. Based on the novella by Charles Dickens
Directed by Lianna Makuch
Originally Directed by Daryl Cloran
David van Belle’s adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic returns to the Citadel! Ebenezer Scrooge has been given just one night to redeem himself but will the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future help him overcome a lifetime of indifference before all hope is lost? Transport yourself to the mid-1950s with nostalgic songs like I’ll be Home For Christmas and White Christmas and experience the magic of the season.
February 11, 2026 11:00AM
Shoctor Theatre
Recommended Ages: 14+
Approximate Run Time: 3 hours (including 20-minute intermission)
Act I: 1 hour, 10 minutes, Intermission: 20 minutes, Act II: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Warning: This production contains mature content (including infidelity, marital tension, mental health struggles, disillusionment, and suicide), verbal aggression and emotional conflict, coarse language, theatrical effects (including theatrical haze, flashing lights), and onstage smoking and alcohol consumption. Parental guidance is advised.
DEATH OF A SALESMAN
By Arthur Miller
Directed by Daryl Cloran
In Partnership with Arts Club Theatre Company (Vancouver)
A gripping exploration of the American Dream, this timeless classic follows Willy Loman, a traveling salesman nearing the end of his career, as he struggles to reconcile his aspirations with reality. Burdened by unfulfilled dreams and familial tensions, Willy’s journey reveals deep truths about ambition, identity, and legacy. Set against a shifting backdrop of the past and present, this poignant drama delves into the fragile human spirit, the pursuit of success, and the yearning for validation. With unforgettable characters and powerful emotions, this production captures the heartache and resilience of a man striving to leave his mark in an unforgiving world.
March 18, 25, 27, and April 8, 2026 11:30AM
Shoctor Theatre
Recommended Ages: 6+
Approximate run time: 2 hours and 20 minutes (including 20 minute intermission)
Act I: 60 minutes, Intermission: 20 minutes, Act II: 60 minutes
Warning: This production contains theatrical effects (including theatrical haze or dry ice fog, flashing lights, bright lights, loud sounds, use of pyrotechnics), and contains frightening scenes that may not be suitable for younger children.
THE WIZARD OF OZ
By L. Frank Baum
With Music and Lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg
Directed by Thom Allison
The Citadel will transport audiences to the magical Land of Oz in this enchanting retelling of the timeless classic. Follow Dorothy, a young dreamer swept away by a whirlwind adventure, as she journeys down the Yellow Brick Road to find her way home. Alongside her unforgettable companions—the Scarecrow, Tinman, and Cowardly Lion—she encounters dazzling wonders, wicked witches, and the promise of courage, heart, and wisdom. With iconic songs, vibrant characters, and heartwarming lessons, this production celebrates the enduring power of friendship, bravery, and believing in oneself. A spellbinding adventure for all ages, it’s a journey you won’t want to miss!
May 13, 2026 11:00AM
Shoctor Theatre
Recommended Ages: 12+
Approximate run time: 2 hours and 30 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission)
Note: Timing is approximate as this is a new work.
Act I: 65 minutes, Intermission: 20 minutes, Act II: 65 minutes
Warning: This production contains stage violence (sword fights) and death. Some coarse language and sexual innuendos. Parental guidance is advised.
CYRANO DE BERGERAC
By Edmond Rostand
Adapted by Jessy Ardern
Directed by Amanda Goldberg
This bold reimagining of a timeless classic brings a fresh, witty edge to the story of love, poetry, and identity. Follow a brilliant and fiercely romantic soul, whose sharp tongue and sword conceal a tender heart and deep insecurities. With daring duels, lyrical wordplay, and unspoken love, this adaptation explores the complexities of courage and vulnerability in a world obsessed with appearances. Balancing humor and heartbreak, it redefines heroism with panache and soul, inviting audiences to rediscover the power of authenticity and the longing for true connection. This is a must-see theatrical experience brimming with charm, passion, and adventure.
PLEASE NOTE: The following productions do NOT have a school matinee performance scheduled at this time. Instead the run dates of the production are listed below. If you would like to discuss school matinee options, to join a waitlist, or if you are interested in bringing your students to an evening performance, please contact our Group Sales Coordinator at groupbookings@citadeltheatre.com.
October 18 – November 9, 2025
Rice Theatre
Recommended Ages: 14+
Approximate run time: 1 hour and 20 minutes (no intermission)
Warning: This production contains coarse language, mature content (including sexual innuendo), loss & bereavement, and audience interaction. Parental guidance is advised. (Due to the improvised nature of the performance, specific content cannot be fully confirmed in advance. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use their discretion when booking tickets for youth).
BIG STUFF
A Baram and Snieckus Production
Written and Created by Matt Baram & Naomi Snieckus
Co-Created and Directed by Kat Sandler
Big Stuff is a funny and heartfelt memoir of a married comedy duo as they take a deep dive into grief and the stuff we hold onto long after we’ve experienced a loss. Matt Baram and Naomi Snieckus have created “one of those pieces of theatre that will stay with you for the rest of your life”. (Globe and Mail). You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll never look at your stuff the same way. Celebrated comedy duo, Matt Baram (The Umbrella Academy, Painkiller, Cross, The Apprentice) and Naomi Snieckus (Pretty Hard Cases, Mr. D, The Social) invite you to participate in the unpacking of some Big Stuff! Channeling their distinct brand of improvisational storytelling, cultivated at The Second City and in comedy clubs all over the world and tested vigorously through their real-life marriage, Matt and Naomi demonstrate the sentimental power of objects, and the transformative potential of finding newfound community in one another.
December 18-21, 2025
Shoctor Theatre
Recommended Ages: 14+
Approximate run time: 1 hour and 45 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission)
Act I: 45 minutes, Intermission: 20 minutes, Act II: 40 minutes
Warning: This production contains mature content (including sexual innuendos), coarse language, and theatrical effects (including flashing lights). Parental guidance is advised.
BEAR GREASE SHACK UP FOR THE WINTER HOLIDAY SPECIAL
A LightningCloud Production
Directed by Crystle Lightning
Bear Grease Shack Up For The Winter Holiday Special takes the beloved 1978 musical on an Indigenous joyride, now with a festive twist! This jaw-dropping, toe-tapping spectacle combines humor, fashion, and music with a burst of cultural flair that makes the classic story feel brand new. The Holiday Special adds lively Christmas surprises to the humor, electrifying dance numbers, and unforgettable tunes you know and love—along with Indigenous twists that celebrate culture and community. From rez makeovers to holiday classics, this one-of-a-kind adventure will have you laughing, grooving, and singing along. It’s a joyful celebration of the season you won’t want to miss!
February 14 – March 8, 2026
Rice Theatre
Recommended Ages: 14+
Approximate run time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission)
Act I: 60 minutes, Intermission: 20 minutes, Act II: 50 minutes
Warning: This production contains mature content (including drug use), coarse language, loss & bereavement, and theatrical effects (including water-based haze & fog, flashing lights, use of pyrotechnics). Parental guidance is advised.
BURNING MOM
Written and Directed by Mieko Ouchi
An Arts Club Theatre Company, Vancouver production
In this inspiring comedy, Dorothy, a 63-year-old widow, realizes life is too short to delay her dreams. Determined to honor her late husband’s retirement plans, she takes their RV on an extraordinary road trip to Burning Man—a weeklong culture festival in the desert with no plumbing. Through hilariously challenging parking lessons, quirky encounters, and moments of self-discovery, she rekindles her adventurous spirit and finds courage she didn’t know she had. This heartfelt odyssey celebrates art, human connection, and the beauty of small moments. Dorothy’s journey will leave you laughing, crying, and ready to embrace life’s unexpected adventures.
April 4 – April 26, 2026
Maclab Theatre
Recommended Ages: 14+
Approximate run time: 2 hours and 40 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission)
Act I: 70 minutes, Intermission: 20 minutes, Act II: 70 minutes
Warning: This production contains mature content (discussions and depictions related to the AIDS epidemic, illness, dying, and death, references to traumatic familial relationships), and features instances of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric or language. The story includes a young character (age 19) who is depicted as emotionally and physically vulnerable. Having come out to his family, he has been rejected, forced out of his home, and is now living with AIDS. His experiences of abandonment, illness, and marginalization may be distressing for some audience members. Parental guidance is advised.
CASEY & DIANA
By Nick Green
Directed by Lana Michelle Hughes
Produced in Association with Alberta Theatre Projects (Calgary)
Set in 1991 at Toronto’s Casey House, this moving story unfolds during the AIDS crisis, following residents and staff as they prepare for Princess Diana’s visit. Confronting fears, dreams, and a longing for connection, the drama balances humor and heartbreak while shining a light on humanity’s resilience and the transformative power of compassion. With vibrant characters and sharp dialogue, it celebrates the courage to hold onto dignity and hope in the face of adversity, capturing the profound impact of one unforgettable moment. Casey and Diana is a powerful tribute to love, resilience, and the enduring legacy of compassion.
MAKE A DAY OF IT! ADD AN INTERACTIVE WORKSHOP FOR YOUR STUDENTS
The Citadel Theatre is home to many professional artists who would love to share their expertise with your students. We offer a wide variety of workshops – choose from the following topics, or ask about something different!
- Acting
- Musical Theatre
- Improvisation
- Stage Combat
- Movement
WORKSHOP LENGTH: Workshops typically run for 60 minutes, but this can be adjusted based on the needs of your group.
COST: Workshops start at $250.00 +GST for up to 30 students (60 minutes). Additional fees may be added for additional students or a longer runtime.
LOCATION: We can host you here at the Citadel or come straight to your school.
BOOK NOW: Complete the Workshop Booking Request Form! Due to the customized nature of these specialized sessions, please submit your request at least 6 weeks in advance of your proposed workshop date(s).
QUESTIONS? Any questions can be directed to Luc Tellier, Director of Education and Outreach, at ltellier@citadeltheatre.com.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
- A completed online School Matinee Booking Form is required before processing; tickets won’t be held without it.
- Orders are processed in the order that completed forms are received.
- Orders are not confirmed until an invoice is issued.
- A non-refundable 20% deposit is required to secure your order. If not received within 2 weeks, the order may be canceled and tickets released.
- Paying in full upfront does not exempt you from the non-refundable 20% deposit if changes or cancellations occur.
- Ticket pricing is listed below. A $10.50 administrative fee applies per order. One complimentary supervisor ticket is provided per 25 students; additional supervisors pay the student rate.
- PLEASE NOTE: This programming is intended to make theatre accessible for youth and is not intended for the public. All groups must have at least a 2:1 student-to-supervisor ratio and a minimum of 10 students to qualify for school matinee bookings.
- Final payment is due on the Friday before your performance (unless otherwise stated). A 5% monthly late fee applies to unpaid balances 30 days after the performance.
- If a performance is sold out, we’ll contact you to offer alternative dates or add you to a waitlist. We’ll follow up if spots open or if demand allows for another performance.
- For interest in shows without a matinee scheduled, we’ll add you to a waitlist and contact you if one is arranged. Please email groupbookings@citadeltheatre.com with your school’s name, contact email, and estimated student count.
- Workshop orders are managed by our Director of Education and Outreach.
- All requests for changes must be submitted in writing to the Group Sales Coordinator at groupbookings@citadeltheatre.com.
- Adjustments must stay within 15% of the original booking. Reductions beyond that are still subject to the non-refundable 20% deposit.
- Final numbers must be confirmed by Friday, two weeks before your performance. After this date, no refunds will be issued.
- For bookings made close to the performance date, your deposit, confirmation, and payment deadlines will be provided by the Group Sales Coordinator. Please follow these specific timelines.
- No refunds are provided for student “no shows.”
- Cancellations are not permitted within two weeks of the performance unless another school group can purchase your tickets. For extenuating circumstances, contact the Group Sales Coordinator to discuss options.
- Cancelled orders remain subject to the non-refundable 20% deposit.
- To keep costs low, physical tickets are not issued. Front of House ushers will have a guest list with your school’s name and ticket count. Supervisors must check in with ushers at the theatre doors and provide accurate attendance numbers for safety purposes.
- Seating is not reserved (except for accessibility needs) and is assigned on a first-come basis. Ushers will begin seating from the front to the back. In the Maclab Theatre, seating starts in the middle section, then alternates between left and right.
- All seats will be filled in order. If your group arrives in separate vehicles, please wait until everyone has arrived before lining up to ensure you’re seated together. Groups may be split if a row or section fills.
- Supervisors must be seated throughout the group to help manage student behaviour. It’s difficult for ushers to reach students seated in the middle of a row.
- Please wait to be seated by our ushers. Self-seating causes aisle congestion, delays the performance, and is unfair to schools that arrive early. Groups who seat themselves will be asked to move and will be seated last. If you need to rearrange seating within your group, please wait until everyone is seated.
- After the performance has started, any individuals arriving late or who have stepped out to use the washroom may not be able to enter the theatre right away. To minimize disruptions for the audience and the actors on stage, our ushers will only be able to admit entry at appropriate times (scene changes, loud musical numbers, etc.), as per the Stage Manager and Front of House’s discretion.
- If there is no appropriate time for an individual to re-enter, they may be asked to stay out in the lobby until intermission or until the end of the performance. For this reason, younger students leaving the theatre must be accompanied by a supervisor as they are the school’s responsibility.
Disclaimer: Age recommendations and content advisories have been thoughtfully prepared by Citadel Theatre staff. However, we understand that individuals may engage with content in different ways. We encourage patrons to consider their own comfort levels, as well as the suitability for any accompanying youth, before attending.
- No children under the age of 5 will be admitted into the theatre. If a young child under the age of 5 is turned away at the theatre doors, no refunds will be provided.
- Age recommendations are subjective and are not strict restrictions; however, please be aware that some productions may contain mature language and/or subject matter.
- The Group Sales Coordinator will provide any applicable warnings in advance, but they are subject to change at the Director’s discretion during the rehearsal process. Please feel free to inquire further about the content of the shows in advance by emailing groupbookings@citadeltheatre.com.
General visitor FAQs and up-to-date information can always be found on the VISITOR FAQs page on our website.
Accessibility information, including photos and a virtual map of the Citadel Theatre can be found on the Accessibility page on our website.
There is a loading zone where your bus can drop you off on the west side of our building. Please take time to look at our Bus Parking Information Page to plan your parking prior to your visit. For smaller vehicle parking please note that our building is attached to the Library Parkade. You can follow signs to the Citadel, and for accessible access you can take the elevator from P2 up into our building.
- Please review this section with all attending supervisors and students. Supervisors should spread themselves out among students to assist with supervision and minimize disruptions. It’s difficult for ushers to reach students seated in the middle of a row. The Citadel relies on the assistance of the schools’ supervisors to supervise their students during performances.
- Please be respectful of the venue, including lobby furniture and décor. Dispose of all lunch/snack waste in the provided bins.
- Photography, video, and audio recording during the performance are strictly prohibited.
- All phones and other electronic devices must be turned off and put away. Light or sound-emitting devices (e.g. laser pointers) are not allowed.
- Actors can see and hear the audience – it is important for audience members not to talk, or move around, during the performance to avoid distracting performers and other patrons.
- Keep bags under seats, not in aisles or walkways, for safety. Some shows may involve actors using the aisles.
- Do not climb on seats or railings, or rest feet on them.
- Do not interfere with the performance in any way (e.g. tripping, throwing items near the stage, etc.).
- While there is no formal dress code, we kindly ask that hats be removed inside the theatre.
- Outside food and drink are not permitted. Only beverages in Citadel sippy cups or bottles purchased at the bar are allowed.
- Students may eat snacks or lunch in the lobby, but outside food and drink are not allowed in the theatre. Students may be asked to throw away or leave items outside.
- Anyone behaving disruptively may be removed without a refund.
PLEASE NOTE: The Citadel recognizes that all individuals should have the opportunity to experience art and culture. We will do what we can to ensure special needs patrons are able to attend Citadel productions and some exceptions may be made.
ALLERGY ALLERT
The Citadel Theatre is a scent-free building. For the safety of those with allergies, please refrain from wearing perfume or other scented products.
2025/26 SCHOOL MATINEE BOOKING FORM LINK
Want to book a school matinee? You can do so by filling out our School Matinee Booking Form. School Matinees go on sale on August 11, 2025 and this booking form will not open until that time.
SHOW DATES AND PRICE BREAKDOWN
LIFE OF PI — $21.00 per ticket (including GST)
- Wednesday, October 1, 2025 @ 11:30AM
- Wednesday, October 3, 2025 @ 11:30AM
VINYL CAFE: THE MUSICAL — $31.50 per ticket (including GST)
- Wednesday, November 19, 2025 @ 11:30AM
A CHRISTMAS CAROL — $31.50 per ticket (including GST)
- Tuesday, November 25, 2025 @ 11:30AM
- Wednesday, November 26, 2026 @ 11:30AM
- Wednesday, December 3, 2025 @ 11:30AM
- Wednesday, December 10, 2025 @ 11:30AM
- Wednesday, December 17, 2025 @ 11:30AM
DEATH OF A SALESMAN — $21.00 per ticket (including GST)
- Wednesday, February 11, 2025 @ 11:00AM
THE WIZARD OF OZ — $31.50 per ticket (including GST)
- Wednesday, March 18, 2026 @ 11:30AM
- Wednesday, March 25, 2026 @ 11:30AM
- Friday, March 27, 2026 @ 11:30AM
- Wednesday, April 8, 2026 @ 11:30AM
CYRANO DE BERGERAC — $21.00 per ticket (including GST)
- Wednesday, May 13, 2026 @ 11:00AM
All prices include GST. A $10.50 handling fee is applied to all orders. Your order has not been confirmed until you have received an invoice. If you are interested in a School Matinee for a production not listed here, please contact the Group Sales Coordinator at groupbookings@citadeltheatre.com.