WESTLOCK — The Westlock Cultural Arts Theatre Society (CATS) has brought music, theatre, dance and live entertainment to Westlock residents for four decades and there’s no signs of them slowing down, as they prepare to present a show-stopping milestone season starting Nov. 1.
The curtain is set to rise on the non-profit organization’s 40th season that will feature a number of new and returning favourites as part of the 2024-2025 performance series.
“This is in your backyard. People have totally embraced it and have supported us so wonderfully over the last 40 years,” said CATS board member and volunteer board director with the performance series, Tina Wold. “It’s 40 years of laughter and memories.”
Over the years there has been performances by musicians, comedy and drama, acts and magic acts, noted Wold, adding there will be six performances hitting the stage for the CATS performance series starting on Nov. 1 with Trevor Panczak, sponsored by Barnyard Buddies Toys and Gifts, followed by Tommy Charles Dec. 13, sponsored by Brown’s Chrysler. Jack Semple, sponsored by Milwest Distillery and Spirits, will hit the stage Jan. 22, 2025, while The Wardens, sponsored by Pisadowski's IDA Pharmacy, will entertain the crowds on Feb. 7. Tissa Rahim, sponsored by Pristine Flora Ltd. will showcase her angelic voice Feb. 28 and Cassie and Maggie, sponsored by Westlock Family Dental will wrap up the performance series on March 12.
“Our season opener is Trevor Panczak. Trevor has been with us before, but because of our 40th anniversary, three shows that the audience has loved and supported fully, are coming back,” explained Wold. “The other three are new (performances). A little bit of country and a bit of celtic, so there’s a range of everything.”
As a board, CATS is responsible for fundraising and searching out grants to help with the society and events, such as the concert series each year.
“They are the reason that we have new seats, new lighting, a new tech board, new video camera in the theatre,” said Wold.
In addition, this year is the first year that each performance is being sponsored by local businesses said Wold, noting their contributions to the much-anticipated and successful 40th season.
“They (businesses) have stepped up without hesitation and it’s wonderful having them back us up a bit,” said Wold, pointing out the many volunteers over the years who have made a difference and have been instrumental for the society, some of whom include Bonnie Arth, Bob MacKenzie, Linda Schmode, Linda Baker, Graham Clews, Joyce Ritter, Lorraine Robinson and current CATS president Barry Robinson.
Opening night Nov. 1 will also feature a special beer cider and pretzel pre-show from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the school cafeteria, adjacent to the CATS theatre.
A limited number of tickets will be available at the door but can be purchased ahead of time by visiting www.westlockculturalartstheatre.com or by calling MTech Printing and Signs in Westlock at (780) 349-6877.
