Calgary—are you ready to Rodeo? No, not that kind of rodeo. We’re talking about the High Performance Rodeo (HPR), Calgary’s raddest theatre festival. It’s taking over downtown from January 14 to February 2, and if you’ve never been, you’re in for a treat. Imagine three weeks of mind-blowing performances, wild creativity, and more fun than you can shake a cowboy boot at. Whether you’re an arts aficionado or a curious newbie, this is the year to dive in. Here are the top 10 events you need to check out.
1. Ronnie Burkett in Wonderful Joe
When: January 21–26
Puppets aren’t just for kids, and Ronnie Burkett’s shows prove it. This heartwarming tale of Joe and his dog Mister is like a hug for your soul. Expect laughs, tears, and that “wow” moment when you realize puppets can make you feel all the feels. Bonus: You can snag a VIP backstage experience to meet Ronnie and his marionettes. Trust us—it’s worth it.
2. Mump & Smoot in Exit
When: January 29–February 1
They’re creepy, they’re kooky, and they’re utterly hilarious. Mump & Smoot are Canada’s favorite “clowns of horror,” blending slapstick, macabre humour, and razor-sharp wit. You’ll laugh, you’ll squirm, and you’ll love every second. Feeling extra brave? Check out their one-night-only backstage experience on January 30.
3. Lucy Darling in Indulgence
When: January 28–30
Imagine the love child of vintage Hollywood glamour and jaw-dropping magic, and you’ve got Lucy Darling. She’s charming, hilarious, and will have you questioning reality. Oh, and there’s a post-show meet-and-greet where you can hang with the queen of illusions herself. Fancy!
4. Ten Minute Play Festival
When: January 14
Think speed dating, but for theatre. This high-energy night of bite-sized plays is the perfect way to kick off the festival. Each performance is only 10 minutes, but they’ll pack more drama, humour, and heart into those moments than you’d think possible. It’s spontaneous, it’s unpredictable, and it’s a total blast.
5. Hot Dyke Party
When: January 16–18
Looking for a party with killer vibes and queer femme energy? This rock concert-meets-celebration is the place to be. It’s loud, proud, and unapologetically joyful. Bring your crew and prepare to dance your heart out.
6. Unplugged: Nirvana Reimagined
When: January 31
Relive the iconic sounds of Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged album, reimagined with a modern twist. This nostalgic-yet-trailblazing show will have you swaying to grunge classics with fresh arrangements. A must for music lovers—grunge fan or not.
7. Taylor Mac in Conversation with Denise Clarke
When: January 18
Dive into an unforgettable evening with Taylor Mac and Denise Clarke. This event kicks off with a live conversation about Mac’s epic 24-Decade History of Popular Music, followed by a screening of the groundbreaking HBO documentary. Expect stunning musical insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and the kind of artistry that leaves you speechless. Perfect for music and theatre lovers alike.
8. CRM&PNSHMT
When: January 29–February 1
Experience Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment like never before in this abridged exploration of the iconic story and its modern artistic context. With a mix of movement, narrative, and moody aesthetics, this production is a bold reimagining of classic literature. It’s an intense yet playful dive into themes of morality, guilt, and redemption.
9. Rat Academy
When: January 15–18
Yes, it’s called Rat Academy, and yes, it’s as weird and wonderful as it sounds. This gritty, cartoon-inspired performance dives deep into societal themes while keeping things wildly entertaining. It’s quirky, it’s heartfelt, and you won’t see anything else like it.
10. Closing Night Party
When: February 1
You didn’t think we’d forget the grand finale, did you? The Closing Night Party is your chance to celebrate the end of the Rodeo with live music, dancing, and good vibes all around. It’s the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable festival experience.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—10 fantastic reasons to experience the High Performance Rodeo! Whether you’re drawn to theatre, music, comedy, or just eager to try something new, this festival has something for everyone. Don’t let the January chill keep you cooped up; embrace the magic of live performance, warm your soul, and ignite your imagination.
Ready to Rodeo? Grab your tickets now and join the excitement. If you’re a fan of live music, check out our guide to the best concerts in Calgary for even more incredible events to enjoy. See you there, Calgary!
