Mourning the loss of Julien Arnold

Dear friends,

Yesterday I rose in the House to pay tribute to Julien Arnold, a true legend in the Edmonton theatre community who tragically passed away on November 24. Many of you knew him personally and saw firsthand the incredible impact Julien had on the creative arts, from co-founding a theatre company to performing on nearly every stage in the city. My Member Statement honouring this loved member of the theatre is below.

The Citadel Theatre’s production of David van Belle’s A Christmas Carol will continue – as they say, the show must go on. Please consider supporting the cast and crew by purchasing a ticket.

If you’d like to support Julien’s wife, Sheiny directly, friends have set up a gofundme to help during this difficult time.

Julien will be missed by those who knew him, and those who had the joy of watching him perform.

Member Statement

Watch the video here

"Cancel show. Wobbly pops!"

Those are the prophetic, light-hearted comments Julien Arnold would use to break the ice when things fell apart on set.

A truly remarkable actor and cherished member of the Edmonton theatre community, Julien was more than a performer; he was a beacon of joy, warmth, and artistry who lit up every stage he graced.

From the intimate comedies of Teatro La Quindicina to the grand productions of Shakespeare in the park, Julien's talent knew no bounds. He was as adept at breaking our hearts with his depth in dramatic roles as he was at bringing laughter with his impeccable comic timing. His versatility was extraordinary—whether portraying the ebullient Mr. Fezziwig, the lovable Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, or the soulful Bob Cratchit in A Christmas Carol, he gave every performance his all.

A proud graduate of the University of Alberta’s Theatre School, he began his journey as a young actor brimming with talent and promise. He co-founded the Freewill Shakespeare Festival, giving Edmonton summers a rich tradition of Shakespeare under the stars. Later, he created the Atlas Theatre Collective and returned to his alma mater to pursue a master’s degree in directing, further enriching the artistic fabric of our community.

In his life, Julien embodied the spirit of the theatre—ever-committed, endlessly creative, and profoundly human. His loss leaves a void in our hearts, but his legacy will live on in the stories he told, the lives he touched, and the magic he brought to the stage.

Rest in peace, dear Julien. You will forever float in our memories, at peace, and so full of light – and some wobbly pops.

Be well,

Joe