Date Night: 5 Tips for Planning a Theatre Night in Calgary

An incredible date night of arts and culture is well within reach.

You’re looking for a sexy and sophisticated night out, but you haven’t been to the theatre in awhile. It’s okay. We get it. It can be intimidating. But a night at the theatre in Calgary is not only a memorable experience, but a super easy and economical one too. We’ve developed a guide to enjoying a perfect night of local entertainment — and getting the best value for your dollar.

Dress Up (or Don’t)

ATP doesn’t have a dress code, and you’ll enjoy the show whether you’re in jeans or a ball gown: but Calgary’s such a casual town that opportunities to get spiffed up are few and far between. Why not make your night extra special by pulling that fashion-forward piece you haven’t yet had the courage to wear out of your closet? Theatre people appreciate boldness. No pressure, though — if your tux is at the cleaner or you’re coming straight from work, there’s no need to ever feel underdressed.

Winner Winner, All the Dinner

The Martha Cohen Theatre is located in Arts Commons on Stephen Avenue, so there’s an incredible selection of dining options right on its doorstep. Want whiskey and burgers? ONE18 EMPIRE’s got a great selection. If steak is what you crave, it’s impossible to go wrong with Ruth’s Chris Steak House.Looking for atmosphere? It’s hard to beat Deane House just a few minutes down the road.

Sip in Style

PHOTO BY JEFF YEE

Let’s face it. Theatre bars often leave something to be desired. But we have partnered with Willow Park Wines & Spirits to create a wine and cocktail program that is sophisticated, delicious and great value. Arrive a bit early, snag a seat on a comfy couch and sip a signature cocktail specially created for each show by our own mixologists. Or, show up right on time and take your drink into the theatre with you. If you prefer beer, you’ll find plenty of choices from Village Brewery. Plus, our supremely handy London Bar service means never having to stand in line at intermission again.

Opening Night, Done Right

PHOTO BY JEFF YEE

If you love big crowds and a celebratory atmosphere, Opening Nights are for you. Our openings take place on the first Friday of the run of every show and are big-ticket affairs for a great price. Every opening features a post-show catered reception with food and complimentary LaMarca Prosecco to toast the artists, who mix and mingle with you in the lobby.

Join The Exchange

Stretch your theatre date night dollars even further by joining us at one of our Exchange Events, which are included in the ticket price. Some of these events include complimentary food or drinks, such as Papa John’s Pizza and Village Brewery Beer Nights (on preview Thursdays) or Afternoon Tea Sunday matinees, catered by Tea Trader. On top of that, you’ll have a chance to take part in playwright talkbacks, Q&A sessions with artists and other specially curated conversations centred on the themes of the play. Check out our calendar of events for more information!