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Red Deer’s Scott Block Theatre under new management

Jan 19, 2023 | 4:27 PM

The historic Scott Block in downtown Red Deer is now under new management.

On Dec. 1, 2022, local experiential event agency Creative Twist Inc. took over the day to day management of the Scott Block, described as Red Deer’s vintage black box theatre located on Little Gaetz.

Officials say the new management team is led by Creative Twist Inc. Owner and Event Strategist Kimberly Beaune CMP, CSEP. According to theatre management officials, not only does she bring a wealth of knowledge regarding venue and event management, but she is also an experienced independent theatre producer who has brought both Dora Award winning and Canadian Comedy Award winning productions to the stage.

Since coming back to Red Deer in 2021, theatre officials say she has become engaged with the local arts community and currently sits on the Board of Directors for Prime Stock Theatre where her husband Richard is the Artistic Director. Working alongside Kimberly, is Event Coordinator Karley Bodnarchuck.

Bodnarchuck is no stranger to the theatre. Officials say she spent six years as a student with Treehouse Youth Theatre and much of that time was spent at Scott Block; so for her, it’s like a homecoming.

“Kimberly and Karley are the perfect team to shepard the theatre back into full operation post COVID-19. They have moved their Creative Twist offices to the retail space next to the theatre lobby and are focused on ensuring Scott Block is an active contributor to a vibrant and revitalized downtown,” says Diana Gelden of Artifact Properties.

Officials acknowledge the Scott Block Theatre has been at the heart of the theatre scene in Red Deer over the past 15 years and much of that time the theatre was managed by Jenna Goldade and Against The Wall Theatre/Bull Skit Comedy.

“We would like to thank Jenna for her care and dedication to the space and for her help as we transition to the new team. We look forward to seeing Jenna and the Bull Skit gang at the theatre regularly as they remain a valued resident company along with Red Aces Dance Society and Prime Stock Theatre,” adds Gelden

In addition to being a destination for theatre, dance, improv, and music; officials point out that the space is ideal for a variety of gatherings. The vintage black box Main Theatre and cabaret style Centennial Stage are described as hidden gems in the downtown core; perfect for meetings, workshops, fundraisers, celebrations and even weddings. With a seasoned event management team at the helm and a continued dedication to supporting the local arts community, officials say the future for the Scott Block Theatre is bright.