Theater communities across Canada are mourning the loss of Julien Arnold, a beloved stage actor and co-founder of the Free Will Players Shakespeare theater company.
Arnold passed away unexpectedly on November 24 at the age of 60 after a medical emergency during a performance of A Christmas Carol at Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre.
Paramedics arrived at the scene at approximately 8:28 p.m. and made multiple attempts to resuscitate Arnold, who was playing Marley, Mr. Fezziwig, Banjo, and ensemble roles in the production.
Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the theater, according to Alberta Health Services. Details about the medical emergency have not been disclosed.
In response to the tragedy, Citadel Theatre announced adjustments to the remaining performances of A Christmas Carol, scheduled to run through December 24, to provide time for the cast and crew to grieve.
Arnold, an Edmonton native and University of Alberta alumnus, had a storied career spanning decades.
He appeared in productions such as The Taming of the Shrew, The Wizard of Oz, Twelfth Night, and Sense and Sensibility with renowned companies like Citadel Theatre, Northern Light Theatre, and Workshop West Theatre.
As a founding member of Free Will Players, Arnold helped establish Edmonton’s annual Freewill Shakespeare Festival, leaving an enduring mark on the city’s arts scene.
Citadel Theatre leaders Jessie van Rijn and Daryl Cloran honored Arnold’s legacy in a heartfelt statement:
“His presence brought joy, heart, and depth to every role, and his artistic contributions—and big hugs—will be deeply missed. We are focusing on supporting his family, the Christmas Carol company, staff, and patrons during this difficult time.”
Arnold’s dedication to the stage and the love he shared with his community will be remembered as a beacon of inspiration in Canadian theater.
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