Perspectives 2026: Freedom to Read and Book Banning

Book banning is happening more often in Canada, and it’s not random.

Marginalized authors and diverse stories are disproportionately targeted, but removing books does not remove diversity. It silences voices that are very much part of our communities.

Drawing from his own experiences, David A. Robertson examines how censorship works, why it happens, and who it affects.

Through real examples and thoughtful analysis, he explores the consequences of limiting access to stories, and what individuals and communities can do to stand up for the freedom to read.

Proceeds will support future Perspectives events/scholarship funds.

About the Speaker

David A. Robertson is an acclaimed author and graphic novelist known for powerful, honest storytelling that centres Indigenous voices and lived experience. His work explores identity, history, and resilience while addressing urgent issues such as mental health, representation, and belonging.

With award‑winning books for readers of all ages, Robertson brings insight, compassion, and clarity to every conversation. His talks are engaging, accessible, and grounded in real-world experience, encouraging audiences to think deeper about the stories we tell and the impact they have on individuals and communities.

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. Directed by Jaime Falk and Jerry Ackerman. 

Ten strangers are summoned to a remote island. All that the guests have in common is a wicked past they’re unwilling to reveal and a secret that will seal their fate… for each has been marked for murder. As the weather turns and the group is cut off from the mainland, the bloodbath begins; one by one, they are brutally murdered in accordance with the lines of a sinister nursery rhyme about “Ten Little Soldier Boys.”  

Warnings: Some intense scenes with violence, murder, poison, hanging & drowning. Loud Noises. Suitable for ages 13 and up.

AND THEN THERE WERE NONE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com 

Step beyond the ordinary and into a world where anything can happen you have just entered the Improvised Twilight Zone.

A live, unscripted anthology where ordinary people find themselves caught in extraordinary situations. Inspired by the mysterious worlds of science fiction, dreams, time travel, alien encounters, alternate realities, and the unknown, each episode is created entirely in the moment by the performers, with inspiration from the audience.

Reality can bend, disappear, or reveal something far stranger.  You have just crossed over into... Improvised Twilight Zone.

 Shows October 29th & 30th

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. Directed by Jaime Falk and Jerry Ackerman. 

Ten strangers are summoned to a remote island. All that the guests have in common is a wicked past they’re unwilling to reveal and a secret that will seal their fate… for each has been marked for murder. As the weather turns and the group is cut off from the mainland, the bloodbath begins; one by one, they are brutally murdered in accordance with the lines of a sinister nursery rhyme about “Ten Little Soldier Boys.”  

Warnings: Some intense scenes with violence, murder, poison, hanging & drowning. Loud Noises. Suitable for ages 13 and up.

AND THEN THERE WERE NONE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com 

Step beyond the ordinary and into a world where anything can happen you have just entered the Improvised Twilight Zone.

A live, unscripted anthology where ordinary people find themselves caught in extraordinary situations. Inspired by the mysterious worlds of science fiction, dreams, time travel, alien encounters, alternate realities, and the unknown, each episode is created entirely in the moment by the performers, with inspiration from the audience.

Reality can bend, disappear, or reveal something far stranger.  You have just crossed over into... Improvised Twilight Zone.

 Shows October 29th & 30th

FREE Gospel Concert! Generation Rising is warmly inviting you to a Gospel concert with the Amundruds and family, a Gospel Band on Saturday, October 31st at 7:00 PM MT at First Christian Reformed Church (16 McVicar Street) Red Deer. No tickets required to attend, and there will be a freewill offering to support children’s education in Latin America. 

Generation Rising is a Canadian Christian charity that builds schools in Latin America, helping children leave the streets and find hope in the classroom. For more information, please contact Generation Rising at (204) 415-6836 or visit www.genrising.org/events.

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. Directed by Jaime Falk and Jerry Ackerman. 

Ten strangers are summoned to a remote island. All that the guests have in common is a wicked past they’re unwilling to reveal and a secret that will seal their fate… for each has been marked for murder. As the weather turns and the group is cut off from the mainland, the bloodbath begins; one by one, they are brutally murdered in accordance with the lines of a sinister nursery rhyme about “Ten Little Soldier Boys.”  

Warnings: Some intense scenes with violence, murder, poison, hanging & drowning. Loud Noises. Suitable for ages 13 and up.

AND THEN THERE WERE NONE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com 

Dean Brody & The Reklaws Live in Red Deer: Hometown Heroes Tour

Looking for the biggest country music concert in Central Alberta this fall? Canada’s top country music stars are coming to Red Deer at the Marchant Crane Centrium for an unforgettable night of hit songs, incredible storytelling, and massive stage energy.

About the Show

Canada’s most celebrated artists Dean Brody and The Reklaws with special guest star Nate Haller, are joining forces this fall for their co-headlining Hometown Heroes National Tour. The tour will bring the two chart-topping acts to stages across the country, delivering a must-see live experience packed with career-defining hits, standout storytelling, and the high-energy moments fans have come to expect from both artists.

About Special Guest: Nate Haller

Since his debut as a solo artist, Nate Haller has firmly established himself as one of Canadian country’s premier talents, bringing his unmatched vocals and energetic live show to some of the biggest stages across the nation. After over a decade of experience in the music business as a session player for some of Canada’s top artists, Nate took his rightful spot at centre stage with his first single “Lighting In A Bottle”, which earned him his first Top 10 at Canadian radio. Nate has continued this momentum with his latest single “Backfire” feat. Tenille Townes earning him his first Top #3.

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

Havoc Fighting Camionships is a live sporting event that features a combination of amateur and professional athletes. The fight card is split between mixed martial arts (MMA) and bare-knuckle boxing (BKB) . 

ALL-REQUEST SHOW. Two pianos. You pick the songs. We play them all. The whole room sings along. No setlist. No two shows alike.

Jamie Mahn and Harvey bring two pianos and big voices to Royal Canadian Legion Branch #35 for one wild night. Show starts 7:30 PM. Two 75-minute sets with an intermission. Food and bar by the Legion.

Tickets $25 at the Legion (2810 Bremner Ave) or online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dueling-piano-mania-red-deer-legion-tickets-2002998672950

THE CROWD CONTROLS THE SHOW.

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

Get ready for a night of fast-paced, unpredictable comedy as teams of improvisers take the stage and compete in a series of challenges.

In Theatresports®, teams compete head-to-head, taking on challenges and creating scenes on the spot. Judges score each round, decide the winners and shape the fun (as we boo them).

Created by Keith Johnstone in Calgary, Theatresports® is now performed by improv companies around the world.

Doors open: 7:30 PM
Show starts: 8:00 PM

Forces collide as Calgary Philharmonic superstar Diana Cohen joins RDSO for Bruch’s powerful Scottish Fantasy. Uncover the heart of the Highlands through soaring melodies and Cohen’s stunning skill, and travel back in time with the Pulcinella Suite, a landmark work that combines 18th Century tunes with Stravinsky’s 20th Century touch. If you’re looking for a “big orchestra” experience, this is the concert for you!

PROGRAM INCLUDES:
STRAVINSKY: Pulcinella Suite, K034
BRUCH: Scottish Fantasy in E-flat minor, Op.46
Featuring Diana Cohen, Violinist

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

Make Cornerstone part of your Christmas tradition! Join us for a joyful holiday production featuring MTI's
Elf Jr. the Musical along with classic Christmas music, festive performances, and plenty of Christmas cheer.

Follow Buddy the Elf on his hilarious and heartwarming journey from the North Pole to New York City as he discovers where he belongs—and reminds everyone around him what Christmas is really about.

With a stage full of talented young performers, familiar Christmas favorites, laughter, music, and all the warmth of the season, this is a festive outing the whole family can enjoy.
Gather your family and friends and come celebrate Christmas with us!

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY WONDERLAND BRINGS THE MAGIC TO  the Westerner Park Marchant Crane Centrium ON WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2!

This holiday season, follow our heroes as they are transported into a dazzling winter wonderland where time seems to stand still. With each daring act, they grow younger, rediscovering the joy, imagination, and spirit of the holidays they thought they had lost.

This brand-new production blends world-class circus artistry with your favourite holiday music for a show unlike anything you’ve experienced. Breathtaking acrobatics, soaring aerial performances, and heart-pounding feats bring the season’s most beloved melodies to life, delivering an unforgettable holiday experience for the whole family. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic!

Join us at The Marchant Crane Centrium on December 2nd for a night of wonder, excitement, and holiday cheer!

Event Dates & Hours

Wednesday, December  2

• Doors Open 6:30 pm
• Event Start Time 7:30 pm
• Event End Time 9:00 pm, subject to change

Tickets

Tickets starting at $44.50 + fees

If you’ve been longing for that classic “Christmas concert” feeling, look no further than Passport to Christmas! With Tchaikovsky’s legendary Nutcracker Suite alongside some of the most memorable songs and themes from Frozen, Home Alone, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, The Polar Express, and The Nightmare Before Christmas, this performance will get you in the spirit of the season faster than a one-horse open sleigh.

PROGRAM INCLUDES:
KROGSTAD: Frozen
KROGSTAD: Christmas at the Movies
TCHAIKOVSKY: The Nutcracker Suite, Op.71a

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

Who's gonna get Scrooged?

An Improvised Christmas Carol brings Charles Dickens' Christmas classic to the stage with a twist! You decide the story! What if Scrooge was a teacher? What if the ghost of Christmas past was a film noir detective? What afflicts poor Tiny Tim? YOU DECIDE!

This is not the boring version you have seen 100 times! This is YOUR version! This is a great show for families, shoppers, small groups, and your company holiday party!

Perfect way to celebrate the Holidays!

DEC 11- SHOW ONLY

Doors at 7:00 PM, Show at 8:00 PM

DEC 12- MATINEE SHOW- KIDS VERSION Sponsored by Alloy LLP

Doors at 12:30 PM, Show at 1:00 PM

DEC 17 & 18- DINNER & SHOW

Doors open at 6:30 PM, Dinner at 7:00 PM, Show at 8:00 PM

Dinner Catered by Sprouts Catering 

Dinner is Buffet-style with a selection of:

SALAD- Cured Beet & Orange OR Caesar Salad

MAIN- Saskatoon BBQ Tequila Chicken Breast OR Smoked free range Turkey

OPTION for Vegetarians- Vegetable Wellington (please specify when you book tickets)

DESSERT- Caramel Apple Cake

Who's gonna get Scrooged?

An Improvised Christmas Carol brings Charles Dickens' Christmas classic to the stage with a twist! You decide the story! What if Scrooge was a teacher? What if the ghost of Christmas past was a film noir detective? What afflicts poor Tiny Tim? YOU DECIDE!

This is not the boring version you have seen 100 times! This is YOUR version! This is a great show for families, shoppers, small groups, and your company holiday party!

Perfect way to celebrate the Holidays!

DEC 11- SHOW ONLY

Doors at 7:00 PM, Show at 8:00 PM

DEC 12- MATINEE SHOW- KIDS VERSION Sponsored by Alloy LLP

Doors at 12:30 PM, Show at 1:00 PM

Looking for Holiday Party Venues in Red Deer?

Skip the high cost and stress of booking a private venue rental. Instead of coordinating caterers, decor, and entertainment, secure tickets for your team or group at Westerner Park’s Ultimate Holiday Party and let us host for you!

The Rustic Noel by Ultimate Holiday Party

A Westerner Park produced event

Grab your crew; it’s time for a country-style holiday party planned by the event experts at Westerner Park. Simply arrive and enjoy!

Westerner Park’s Ultimate Holiday Party is back! This year, we’re turning up the country charm! Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready for a night packed with toe-tapping entertainment, lively energy, and unforgettable festive fun.

On Saturday, December 12, 2026, the Neeralta Pavilion at Westerner Park transforms into a rustic and festive party – featuring live country entertainment by Travis Dolter, a mechanical bull, dance floor, cozy lounge spaces, hot chocolate bar, photo booth, and plenty of festive surprises throughout the night.

Skip the stress of planning your holiday party. No booking venues. No organizing entertainment. No coordinating food and décor. Simply gather your coworkers, purchase your tickets, show up, and enjoy an unforgettable night out together.

Whether you’re celebrating with your office team, clients, staff, or friends, this all-inclusive holiday experience makes party planning beyond easy! This is the kind of atmosphere only Westerner Park can create.

Guests are encouraged to dress to the theme and bring their best Western holiday style.

Tickets are available for purchase until December 9, 2026 at 10:00 pm

The Smarter Alternative to Private Venue Booking

Why deal with facility hire, contract minimums, and event planning logistics? Choosing the Ultimate Holiday Party gives your entire group access to premium entertainment, a festive atmosphere, and full event execution for a fraction of the cost.

Buy Holiday Party Group Tickets

Reserve your group’s spot today at the Neeralta Pavilion in Red Deer. Get your tickets early to take advantage of special group pricing and guarantee your team gets a spot at Central Alberta’s top holiday celebration!

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

Who's gonna get Scrooged?

An Improvised Christmas Carol brings Charles Dickens' Christmas classic to the stage with a twist! You decide the story! What if Scrooge was a teacher? What if the ghost of Christmas past was a film noir detective? What afflicts poor Tiny Tim? YOU DECIDE!

This is not the boring version you have seen 100 times! This is YOUR version! This is a great show for families, shoppers, small groups, and your company holiday party!

Perfect way to celebrate the Holidays!

DEC 11- SHOW ONLY

Doors at 7:00 PM, Show at 8:00 PM

DEC 12- MATINEE SHOW- KIDS VERSION Sponsored by Alloy LLP

Doors at 12:30 PM, Show at 1:00 PM

DEC 17 & 18- DINNER & SHOW

Doors open at 6:30 PM, Dinner at 7:00 PM, Show at 8:00 PM

Dinner Catered by Sprouts Catering 

Dinner is Buffet-style with a selection of:

SALAD- Cured Beet & Orange OR Caesar Salad

MAIN- Saskatoon BBQ Tequila Chicken Breast OR Smoked free range Turkey

OPTION for Vegetarians- Vegetable Wellington (please specify when you book tickets)

DESSERT- Caramel Apple Cake

You’ve worked hard all year - now it’s time to celebrate!

After a year of deadlines, meetings, long days, busy seasons, big wins, and everything else that comes with keeping a business moving, your team deserves one night where nobody has to plan a thing.

REGISTER YOUR TEAM HERE:
https://forms.gle/XTgKfoPEgswNH8649

Friday, December 18th, 2026
Holiday Inn & Suites Red Deer South
33 Petrolia Drive, Gasoline Alley, Red Deer CountyCocktails: 5:00 PM
Holiday Dinner Buffet: 6:30 PM
Entertainment: 8:15 PM
DJ & Dance Party: 9:30 PM onwards

REGULAR PRICING
(Starting October 18th, 2026) - $150.00 + tax per person

BUY 7 TICKETS, GET THE 8TH FREE!

A full table of 8 is $1,050.00 + tax.

Tickets include reserved seating, holiday buffet dinner, dessert, professional entertainment, and the DJ & dance party.

Questions?

info@elevatedeventsco.ca
www.facebook.com/elevatedeventscompany
www.instagram.com/elevated.events.co

Who's gonna get Scrooged?

An Improvised Christmas Carol brings Charles Dickens' Christmas classic to the stage with a twist! You decide the story! What if Scrooge was a teacher? What if the ghost of Christmas past was a film noir detective? What afflicts poor Tiny Tim? YOU DECIDE!

This is not the boring version you have seen 100 times! This is YOUR version! This is a great show for families, shoppers, small groups, and your company holiday party!

Perfect way to celebrate the Holidays!

DEC 11- SHOW ONLY

Doors at 7:00 PM, Show at 8:00 PM

DEC 12- MATINEE SHOW- KIDS VERSION Sponsored by Alloy LLP

Doors at 12:30 PM, Show at 1:00 PM

DEC 17 & 18- DINNER & SHOW

Doors open at 6:30 PM, Dinner at 7:00 PM, Show at 8:00 PM

Dinner Catered by Sprouts Catering 

Dinner is Buffet-style with a selection of:

SALAD- Cured Beet & Orange OR Caesar Salad

MAIN- Saskatoon BBQ Tequila Chicken Breast OR Smoked free range Turkey

OPTION for Vegetarians- Vegetable Wellington (please specify when you book tickets)

DESSERT- Caramel Apple Cake

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

Hearts of Harmony is returning to regular Monday night rehearsals on August 10, 2026 at Gaetz Memorial United Church 6:30-9:00. Ladies, come see what we are all about. Check out our website at heartsofharmony.ca

The RDSO’s 40th anniversary celebrations continue with two of the most memorable themes in modern music. Barber’s Adagio for Strings has been used in countless films, including Platoon and The Elephant Man, and Karl Jenkins’ Palladio is the soundtrack to De Beers’ famous “Diamonds Are Forever” advertising campaign. Combine these with the winner of the RDSO Concerto Competition and you have a concert that you’ll wish lasted forever!

PROGRAM INCLUDES:
BARBER: Adagio for Strings
JENKINS: Palladio
CONCERTO: With Emily Fakeley, 2026 Red Deer Festival Winner

There aren’t many people who are recognized only by their last name, but Johann Sebastian Bach is one of them. Find out why when Rosa Barocca takes the stage for this captivating concert of Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos, which have been performed across the globe for over three centuries. Presented alongside music by Vivaldi (famous for The Four Seasons) and Rameau, this concert will be so good that you’ll be Bach, too!

PROGRAM INCLUDES:
VIVALDI: Concerto Grosso, Op.3
RAMEAU: Chaconne from “Dardanus”
BACH: Brandenburg Concertos 1, 4, and 5

We wrap up RDSO’s 40th anniversary with two of the most epic pieces ever written, performed by the biggest orchestra of the season. Experience pianist Katherine Kim’s stunning skill through Tchaikovsky’s monumental Piano Concerto No. 1 and dive into Dvořák’s dramatic Symphony No. 9. (Spoiler Alert: If you’ve heard the song “Goin’ Home”, you’ll discover where the melody came from.) This concert will take you on a spectacular journey from beginning to end, and is the perfect way to wrap up a year of symphonic celebration!

PROGRAM:
TCHAIKOVSKY: Piano Concerto No. 1, Op.23
DVOŘÁK: Symphony No. 9, Op.95
Featuring Katherine Kim, Pianist