Calgary has always cultivated its cowboy image. The Calgary Stampede stands out as perhaps the preeminent rodeo on the planet. It’s terrific. But it doesn’t come close to telling the true tale of this increasingly cosmopolitan city.
Venture across the border the weekend of May 6 through May 8 and get a whole new take on Alberta’s largest city.
Immerse yourself in sound: Head to the Epcor Centre for Performing Arts to hear Charles Fox’s presentation of Wildurban: A Multichannel Soundscape. Fox has taken surround sound recordings from the wilderness of Saskatchewan – waterfowl, songbirds, insects, and mammals. These creatures are disappearing far too fast form the Canadian landscape. Encounter the wild without going there, appreciate the essence of a place before it passes. Admission is free.
See the horses run: Spruce Meadows is the venue May 7 for the May Classic. If the rains come, it will be held inside in the Riding Hall and Equi-plex. Horse lovers love the Classic. If you’re visiting during the outdoor tournament know that admission is a steal: CA$5. It’s been that way since the doors opened back in 1975. Seniors and kids 12 and under get in free.
Munch with mother: Make tracks for the Calgary Zoo May 8 for Mother’s Day Brunch. You’ll have to buy tickets ahead of time. Adults get a place at the table for $34.95, and kids for $19.95. There are three seating times: 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 2 p.m. There’s a crafts table so children can make one of those memorable keepsakes moms always treasure.
Take in the theater: On May 6, Workshop Theater will present All in Good Time, by Bill Naughton. Directed by Louis B. Hobson, it’s the hilarious – and sometimes moving – story of a marriage that gets off to a rocky start. Adult admission is CA$20.
Take on a tank: In this case, we’re talking about Thomas the Tank, the toy train that commands kids’ attention both sides of the border. Thomas is setting up shop at 1900 Heritage Drive Southwest May 7 beginning at 9 a.m. Tickets are CA$21. This visit to Heritage Park buys your child a 20-minute ride on a full-size Thomas, a story-telling session with Sir Topham Hat (you’ll understand if your child has the toys), and a build with Mega Bloks. All this is accompanied by live music.
Get in touch with your Celtic self: This live music might be a bit more engaging. Celtic Echoes emanate from the Gilmore Christian Academy Theater May 7 beginning at 7 p.m. This is Calgary’s very own Irish song and dance presentation. The show boasts some world-class Irish musicians and dancers: Ben Plotnick, Keri Lynn Zwicker, Nathan McCavana and others. Tickets are CA$25.
Holiday Inn Express Calgary Airport offers some really reasonable, convenient accommodations. Located 15 kilometers from the center of the city, it’s not far from the Calgary Zoo, the Aerospace Museum, McCall Lake Golf Course and other attractions. A room with two queen beds runs CA$121, taxes not included.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: LipBomb )
