On June 13, the Vic Juba Community Theatre held a luncheon on the Ulmer Chev Stage to unveil its highly anticipated line-up for the upcoming Dr. H.A. McDonald 2023/24 season. Media representatives and special guests were in attendance to get a sneak peek into the exciting performances that await theatergoers.
Vic Juba general manager Jen McConnell warmly welcomed everyone, expressing gratitude to the media and community influencers for their continuous support. McConnell acknowledged the traditional territories of the Cree Salti and Metis people and set the stage for the magic that would unfold during the 2023/24 Dr. H. A. McDonald season.
Taking the podium next was Bridget Walsh, the Box Office & Marketing Coordinator, who presented an engaging video showcasing some of the acts scheduled for the upcoming season. Walsh expressed delight at seeing everyone back on the Ulmer stage and emphasized the profound impact of the arts in connecting with the community. She highlighted the theater’s role in nurturing local talent and providing a platform for dreams to come alive.
Since its establishment in 2002, the Vic Juba Community Theatre has been dedicated to delivering exceptional performing arts experiences to community members. The 2023/24 season is particularly significant as it pays tribute to the late Dr. H.A. McDonald, a renowned optometrist and avid theater enthusiast. McDonald’s wife has generously sponsored the theater’s shows for the past 15 years, making this season all the more meaningful.
The season’s line-up is packed with diverse and captivating performances that promise to enchant audiences. Kicking off on September 7, The Vic’s Crank it Up Cabaret will feature the talented Brett Kissell. On October 11, the theater will bring the Ultimate Robin Williams Tribute Experience, a show that promises to captivate audiences with a homage to the legendary actor.
In October, the Hip Hop duo Lightning Cloud will take the stage with their indigenous twist on the classical musical in Bear Grease, scheduled for October 19. Closing out the month, the Tim Hicks Campfire Troubadour Tour’23 will entertain on October 28th.
November offers another exceptional array of performances. On November 1, Jennie Ogilvie-The Unconventional Medium will showcase her unique abilities to connect with loved ones. For those seeking laughter, Quick Dick McDick Comedy on November 4 will offer a side-splitting experience, including a supper option and a meet and greet. The little ones are not forgotten, as Bobs & Lolo will enchant children with their singing and dancing on November 5.
The entertainment continues with Dave La Fame’s Tribute to Tom Jones on November 23. December kicks off with Over the Moon on December 2, a performance that also offers a supper option and a meet and greet. And what would December be without The Nutcracker? On December 19th, The Nutcracker-United Youth Ballet Co. will grace the stage, capturing the hearts of the audience.
Moving into 2024, The Great Canadian Roadtrip will welcome the new year with performances from Doc Walker, Michelle Wright, and Jason McCoy on February 26. And for those who appreciate Irish tunes, the Irish Descendants will take the stage on March 11th.
In addition to the exciting line-up announcement, the Vic Juba Community Theatre received a generous donation from the Mosaic Church in Lloydminster. The church presented a $17,000 cheque to General Manager Jen McConnell, which will go towards equipment upgrades. Starting August 6, the Mosaic Church will hold its Sunday services at the Vic Juba, further cementing the theater’s role as a community hub.