The Esplanade 2025-26 performing arts lineup has been revealed to the delight of audiences of all ages and backgrounds.--SUPPLIED PHOTO
Spring has arrived in Medicine Hat, bringing with it a refreshing burst of color and life. The landscape is alive with blooming flowers, fresh breezes and longer days – a time of renewal that awakens every sense. It’s a season of new beginnings, much like the exciting programming unfolding at the Esplanade.
We are thrilled to reveal the 2025-26 performing arts lineup, packed with a diverse array of performances sure to entertain, inspire, and captivate audiences of all ages.
This fall, we open with a splash of humour and heart on Oct. 2 as Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’® takes the stage. This sequel offers another hilarious and heartfelt look at menopause and friendship, featuring a brand-new soundtrack of toe-tapping parodies from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Get ready to laugh and sing along on this high-seas adventure.
For fans of 90s alternative rock, Econoline Crush will be rocking the Esplanade on Nov. 1. While promoting their new album When the Devil Drives, the band promises to deliver all the classic hits that longtime fans know and love.
The Holiday Season shines bright with the Shumka’s Ukrainian Nutcracker on Dec. 5 (evening) and Dec. 6 (matinee). This folk ballet beautifully blends the grace of classical ballet with the power of Ukrainian dance, offering a dazzling display of aerial feats and storytelling.
History and cabaret meet on Feb. 13 with Josephine: A Burlesque Cabaret Dream Play. The biographical musical traces the extraordinary life of Josephine Baker, the first African American international superstar and one of the 20th century’s most remarkable figures.
On Feb. 19, the timeless harmonies of The Celtic Tenors will fill the Esplanade with warmth and Irish spirit. Matt, Daryl and their newest member George promise a spellbinding evening steeped in the rich traditions of Celtic music.
Join us Mar. 7 for the beloved fairy tale musical Pinocchio, chronicling the adventures of the wooden marionette who comes to life – a magical experience for the whole family.
Celebrate a Saint Patrick’s Party on March 17th with East Coast flair and plenty of cheer! Pretty Archie and local favourite Rob Cook bring Celtic charm, live music, and kitchen-party vibes to the Esplanade – don’t forget to wear green!
Comedy fans will be delighted to welcome back Canadian comedian Shaun Majumder on April 15. Known for his easygoing style and sharp wit, Shaun’s storytelling never fails to entertain.
Closing out the season on April 30 is Delhi 2 Dublin, celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2026 with a high-energy fusion of Bhangra, electronic, hip-hop, reggae and Celtic influences. Their “Subcontinental Pop” sound guarantees a night of electrifying dance music.
On-Stage Series
The On-Stage Series returns with four outstanding Canadian artists:
The North Sound (Oct. 23) from Saskatoon, known for their raw lyrics and soaring harmonies.
Emerging Ontario artist John Muirhead (Nov. 6), whose heartfelt storytelling and guitar melodies will captivate.
Montreal’s jazz collective Bellbird (Jan. 15), blending unique jazz notes to warm your winter.
Lethbridge’s own Ryan Lindsay (Feb. 26), a five-time Country Music Alberta award winner, brings his country flair to close the series.
Tickets can be purchased individually or as a series bundle, offering savings and guaranteed seats.
Pay What You Will performances
The Esplanade proudly presents two special shows under the Pay What You Will program: The Boo Revue! and Billy Bishop Goes to War.
Families are invited to the Esplanade on Oct. 25 for the Boo Revue!, a family-friendly Halloween musical featuring the kooky residents of a haunted graveyard and part of this year’s edition of The Great Pumpkin Smash. Created by puppeteers from Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock, this glowing production combines laughs, thrills, and unforgettable puppet magic.
On Nov. 7, join us for Billy Bishop Goes to War, a moving one-man show with piano accompaniment that tells the true story of Canadian WWI flying ace Billy Bishop. This poignant and often humorous narrative reflects on the horrors of war and the ecstasy of flight, capturing the resilience of the human spirit during conflict.
Don’t miss out on this exciting season of entertainment at the Esplanade! Tickets for all shows go on sale to the public starting Friday, May 30 at TIXX.ca. Esplanade Members enjoy early access beginning Tuesday, May 27 at noon – so be sure your membership is up to date to take advantage of presale opportunities. And remember to take advantage of Early Bird pricing on select shows to secure the best seats at the best value before they’re gone!
Lauren Thomas is the co-ordinator entertainment and events for the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre
