New operator hopes to revitalize historic Scott Block Theatre

Operations of the Scott Block have been in flux over the last couple of years.

In an interview with rdnewsNOW, Key shared his excitement to take the Scott Block to a new level.

“I want to put the Scott Block back on the map,” said Key.

“A lot of people don’t realize there are two theatre spaces in the building. We’re going to utilize this space, market it, and give it a little love that maybe it hasn’t had in a few years.”

It all starts with his first booked show on Sept. 24 featuring Corin Raymond and Noah Walker, says Key, who has maintained great relationships in the business community since his former restaurant, The Velvet Olive, closed in spring 2025.

“The importance [of the arts and entertainment scene] is absolutely huge. All the shows that come to Alberta, [and play Edmonton and/or Calgary] have an opportunity to play Red Deer, but don’t normally do,” Key opines.

“We just need more venues and more people going out to support, and in the age of AI, which is really a cancer to the music industry and ripping off artists, the intimacy of live music or comedy is so important.”

Last fall, it was announced the Red Deer Arts Council was taking over operations from Creative Twist Inc., which had steered the ship since 2022.

That opportunity arose amid controversy over municipal funding for community culture organizations.

The Arts Council said at the time that the ability to generate revenue and support local artists would ensure a stable home for creative work, which aligned with the council’s mission and long-term vision for arts locally.

Earlier this year, the Arts Council had to reconsider its previous decision to manage the historic theatre.

Artifact has been running it in the meantime.

The Scott Block Theatre has been operating in downtown Red Deer for two decades and has become a go-to venue for theatre, dance, improv, and music, among other gatherings.

According to its website, the building was constructed in 1946 by Charles Scott, and it served as apartments and retail stores until it was refurbished and converted into Red Deer’s favourite black box theatre.

The Scott Block Theatre is located at 4816 50 Avenue.

by Josh Hall

New operator hopes to revitalize historic Scott Block Theatre

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