How do you even start to write a review of a venue that holds so much sentimental value to you? For the first time in my yelpy life, I'm afraid that my words are not going to do justice.
But I'll try! Like Michelle H, I have a plethora of childhood memories in this theatre. I lived in St. Albert from the time I was 10 until I turned 20, and was involved in choirs, solo singing, and plays during that time so I was lucky enough to get to stand on that stage a time or two. I never attended the summer camps myself, but I always looked forward to the show they would put on at the end of the season.
Last night, a friend and I made the long trek out to St. Albert to see Brent Butt at the Arden. It was my first time back in that theatre as an adult. When I parked the car, I immediately had a rush of memories in my head.
If you get to the theatre early enough for a drink, there is plenty of room to enjoy a cocktail. But if you don't want to sit/stand and visit, you can also walk down the hallway and look at all the pictures that line the walls of performers over the years. That's my favourite part.
The staff are really remarkable here too. Everyone from the bartenders to the ushers - they all have smiles on their faces constantly. I don't remember if they are employees or volunteers, but either way, they love their jobs.
I was late in hearing about this show - usually when Brent Butt comes to town, I'm one of the first to get tickets and am in the first 5 rows. The opposite was true in this case. Our seats were in row O. That's the second row from the back. I was a little disappointed at the thought of being so far away... but once I sat down, that disappointment melted away. People always say "There's not a bad seat in the place!" when talking about most theatres. But it's absolutely true of the Arden. The rows are slanted so perfectly that your view is NEVER obstructed by the person in front of you. You NEVER have to lean to one side to see around someone. And the sound in the theatre is really great.
Back to the staff for a second. I noticed that any time a guest had to sneak out to the bathroom during the show, the ushers were IMMEDIATELY on their feet to help you find the door. And then they stand by that door until you come back to help you back to your seat. They're like ninjas....
I can't wait to go back and will definitely be looking into more shows I can attend. read more