Calgary is host to amazing arts and theatre events all year round, and the Downstage is presenting a thrilling new show in town next month.
The award-winning theatre company located at the Werklund Centre in downtown Calgary presents Botticelli in the Fire from March 4 to 14 at The Big Secret Theatre.
According to Clare Preuss, Downstage Artistic Director, the irreverent, cathartic work is a reminder for everyone to stand up for what we love.
Downstage
“Full of art, music, and fashion, yet eerily relevant, Botticelli in the Fire reminds us that progress isn’t guaranteed, and standing up for what we love is more urgent than ever,” said Preuss to Daily Hive.
Botticelli in the Fire by Jordan Tannahill links High Renaissance Florence to what Downstage describes as our “deeply polarized present.”
“It confronts the destructive force of political extremism and censorship while urging audiences to stand up for what they love most,” added Preuss.
“It’s not as easy to tell when you’re on the precipice as you might think.”
Downstage
The play is directed by Preuss and contains scenes with nudity, sex and violence. It is recommended for ages 16 and up and features a stand-out cast.
Bringing Botticelli in the Fire to life are actors Kris Alvarez, Joel Cochrane, Christopher Hunt, Zachary Parsons-Lozinski, Ethan Vasquez Taylor, Eric Wigston, and Sydney Williams.
Tannahill is one of Canada’s top writers and directors, with his novels and plays being translated into 12 languages and being honoured with two Governor General’s Literary Awards.
It’s shaping up to be a busy spring for Downstage as the company is also gearing up for the Stage It Festival in May at the Werklund Centre.
More information about all of Downstage’s shows can be found online.
When: March 4 to 14, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. on March 8)
Where: The Big Secret Theatre, Werklund Centre — 205 8th Ave. SE, Calgary
Cost: $30, pay-what-you-can preview and pay-it-forward tickets also available. Purchase online