Vermilion Allied Arts Announces 2025/26Performance Season As It Celebrates 50 Years

The Vermilion Allied Arts Council has officially confirmed its artist lineup for the 2025/26 season, and audiences can expect a series of impressive and diverse performances. The 50th season will open with the Jake Mathews Trio on Saturday, October 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Alumni Theatre, located on the Lakeland College campus in Vermilion. Tickets for this show are $35.

Jake Mathews, a Canadian country artist with an accomplished career, has made a lasting impact on the music industry. With a string of top 20 hits, he has earned numerous Canadian Country Music Award nominations and captured the admiration of country music fans across the nation. His music has reached audiences far beyond Canada, with performances that have taken him from Korea to New York, London, and Australia. Known for his emotive voice and captivating stage presence, Mathews has become a standout performer on both the Canadian and international stages.

In 2011, Mathews released his critically acclaimed album Red Tail Lights. Its lead single, If I Had It My Way, spent 36 weeks on the charts and became one of the most played songs of the year. Other popular hits include Time After Time, I’m Gone, and Beer Necessities. In addition to his own work, Mathews has made a name as a songwriter, penning 12 top 40 singles, including the chart-topping If I Had It My Way. Over 80 of his songs have been recorded by artists in both Canada and the United States. His latest single, We Sing Songs, is now available on radio and all digital platforms.

The season continues on November 8 with Billy Bishop Goes to War, a celebrated musical play dramatizing the life of Canadian First World War flying ace Billy Bishop. This engaging performance blends history and music in a powerful retelling of one of Canada’s most renowned heroes.

As the holidays approach, audiences can look forward to Christmas with Buzz Brass. This acclaimed classical brass quintet promises to deliver a festive performance that will set the perfect tone for the Christmas season.

The new year will bring a Valentine’s Day treat on February 14 with the duo Over the Moon. Featuring award-winning vocalists and multi-instrumentalists Suzanne Levesque and Craig Bignell, this performance offers a heartfelt and memorable way to celebrate the evening with a loved one. The couple, who met, married, and discovered their musical harmony together, are known for their blend of western swing, Appalachian old-time, and cowboy blues. Their debut album reflected the rugged beauty of Alberta’s foothills and received glowing international reviews. Critics from publications such as American Roots UK, Country Music People, and Maverick Magazine praised the duo’s authenticity and charm, while Elmore Magazine in New York noted the pair’s distinctive sound as something truly special.

Closing the season on March 28 will be Ariana Whitlow with her dynamic show DIVAS Live! This high-energy performance celebrates the legendary hits of music’s most iconic divas. Whitlow, a seasoned entertainer who has toured the world as a singer, actor, and dancer, is recognized for her soulful vocals, vibrant stage presence, and engaging sense of humour. Drawing inspiration from powerhouse artists such as Tina Turner, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston, Whitlow promises a show that will leave audiences both energized and inspired.

Tickets for the 2025/26 season will be available beginning in September at Fantasy Flowers by calling 780-853-4999 or by e-transfer at vermilionalliedarts@gmail.com

During the summer the Allied Arts Council held a Unleashing Creativity: Help Support Our Local Performing Arts Crowdfundraiser with a goal or raising $5,000 to help cover artist fees, venue costs, and all the behind-the-scenes work that brings world-class music to our door step.

“Through the Crowdfunding Alberta platform, 50 per cent of all contributions will be matched up to a total of $5,000. This matching opportunity allows us to amplify every donation and maximize community impact. Our crowdfunding campaign ended on August 19 and the club is so thankful for those who donated, the club reached 91 per cent of our goal with a total raised of $4,545,” said Danielle Smith, Director of Sponsorship, Vermilion Allied Arts Council.