A Hidden Gem in the Town of Athabasca
The Athabasca Performing Arts Centre, also known as the Nancy Appleby Theatre, is the beating heart of Athabasca’s thriving performing arts scene. The building, formerly the gym of Athabasca High School, was renovated and opened in 1981 as the Performing Arts Centre. It has been lovingly maintained and is a charming setting to see any performance!
Its namesake, Nancy Appleby, was a patron of the arts in Athabasca in the 1960s and 1970s.
“Nancy Appleby was a lovely woman who taught music in Athabasca for many years. She was married to Mr. Appleby who grew up on the south end of Baptiste Lake. Her granddaughters are retired there now.
Her impact on the community was tremendous. She coached the 1960’s CanCan dancers photos you see around town. I was privileged to study piano and voice with her when I was in high school and she influenced so many people in our community as music teacher and mentor.” – Ida Edwards, Town of Athabasca Councillor and long time resident.
Photo courtesy of Athabasca Archives
Photo courtesy of Athabasca Archives
The theatre can accommodate up to 280 people and features a 780-square-foot stage, green room, modern lighting, and soundboard technology to accommodate any performance. Its amphitheatre-style seating and open stage provide an intimate performance setting.
A Hub for Performing Arts in the Region
For over 40 years, the Nancy Appleby has hosted a rich history of music and theatre in the Athabasca region. Many local musical and theatrical events take place at the Nancy Appleby Theatre, and outstanding regional, national, and international performers grace the stage.
It is home to:
- Athabasca Arts Alliance
- Heartwood Folk Club
- E.P.C. Drama Club
- PAPA (Performing Arts Presenters of Athabasca)
- Athabasca & District Music Festival
- Theatre Athabasca
- Athabasca Dance Society
- Athabasca Ukrainian Folk Dance Club
The Athabasca Regional Multiplex manages the Nancy Appleby. They are increasing their own programming there by hosting movie nights. Snacks and beverages are allowed in the amphitheatre so you can grab a bag of popcorn, usually popped up by the local Lion’s Club, and settle in to catch a movie classic!
Make it a Date Night Getaway!
Visit one of our local restaurants before your show for a perfect date night. The Heartwood Folk Club partners with Johnny’s Eatery and Neighbours Pub for a discount when you show your tickets.
If there is a performance on a Friday or Saturday, book a local Airbnb or hotel and make it a weekend experience! There is usually something interesting going on Saturdays in the Athabasca Region.
Visit our Events Calendar for event listings in the Region.
Post pictures of experiences at the Nancy Appleby Theatre with the hashtags #VisitTheAthabascaRegion and #LiveLifeOutside
