Plenty for everyone

By Stan Ashbee

Southern Alberta has had an assortment of live events, family fun-filled activities and unique festivities to tempt each and every southern Albertan’s appetite for something a little different or a must see or do.
This holiday season is no exception, as Lethbridge County and area hosts a plethora of holiday happenings.
2016 has been a remarkable year for live entertainment in the county, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and in Calgary.
Earlier this month, Enmax Centre in the big city, hosted the smash hit musical Mama Mia on its farewell tour. For Abba enthusiasts in the seats and on the floor, it was a nostalgic disco-laced evening of dancing kings and queens.
Enmax also presented Alice Cooper, Corner Gasser comedian Brent Butt, Hedley with Carly Rae Jepsen, the Long Island Medium Theresa Caputo and many more top-notch acts.
Enmax is also presenting A Jann Arden Christmas tonight, Stomp in January 2017, comedian Jeff Dunham and Menopause the Musical in March and Rick Mercer is swinging by the city in April.
A big ‘ol tip of the hat goes out to Enmax staff for all the great shows and all the hard work that goes into putting on a production.
I myself have worked behind the scenes at Enmax, as a backstage hand/roadie (if you will) for the Crue, Cooper, the Hip, Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube, Riverdance, David Copperfield, Larry the Cable Guy, Bob Dylan, Our Lady Peace, and many more. And, Yates Theatre always brings in great live entertainment too. New West Theatre is always a good bet for live music, jokes and a fun night out.
Medicine Hat has also had its fair share of big names over the past year including Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters, Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys and Bryan Adams.
Other acts to perform in the Hat include Tom Cochrane and Steven Page formerly of the Barenaked Ladies.
Calgary also saw Kiss, Motley Crue’s farewell tour, Cheech and Chong and many more acts of all genres.
2017 is looking up to be a great year for music and live entertainment throughout southern Alberta.
Locally, the holiday season geared up for many an activity. Recently, the Picture Butte Hotel hosted Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Night, which featured comedian Kathleen McGee.
Picture Butte’s Midnight Madness took place last Friday, as select shops were open late for holiday shopping and there were many family activities including hayrides, free skating and a visit from Santa Claus.
There were many Christmas craft and gift sales going on including a One Stop Christmas Shop in Coaldale at St. Joseph’s School and the Gem of the West Museum presented their annual Carol Festival. The Nobleford Community Complex also played host to a Winter Trade Show earlier this month. On Dec. 10, the Readymade Community Centre hosts A Festive Christmas Dinner and Dance featuring the live music of The Tom and Curt Band plus there will be a special visit by jolly old St. Nick. The event boasts a beef on a bun dinner and family dance.
Lots to do, so little time, but support local activities and visit other communities to take part in what they have to offer too. Southern Alberta keeps on keeping on with the support of southern Albertans.
Check out a live show, visit a tourist attraction, wander through a weekend event, sip and savour some great eats and beverages (make sure to plan ahead for a ride home) at a dance or party and just have fun, while keeping it local and safe.