Residents in Red Deer, Alberta, have the chance to experience local theatre this spring as the Central Alberta Theatre hosts its annual CATnips One-Act Festival on April 16 and 17, 2026. The event features three short plays exploring themes of comedy, romance, and edgier content.
Admission to the festival is free, though organizers note that seating is limited and tickets must be reserved in advance through Showpass. While the event is free to attend, the theatre will be accepting donations at the door and will provide a cash bar for attendees. The festival includes mature subject matter and language, and is not recommended for young audiences.
The performances will take place at the Red Deer Memorial Centre. Originally built in 1951 as a drill hall for the A-20 Training Camp during World War II, the venue now serves as a central hub for the arts. The Central Alberta Theatre has operated the 700-seat facility since 1994. Founded in 1970, the organization is one of the oldest volunteer-based, non-profit community theatre companies in Canada.
The festival is a stand-alone event and is held as the local arts community navigates significant funding challenges. Recent data shows that local groups requested over $1.1 million in funding through the City of Red Deer grant programs for 2026, while only $445,000 was available. The Government of Alberta and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts also provide support for the theatre’s operations.
