Canadian Stage Actor Dies at 59
Beloved Canadian actor Julien Arnold tragically passed away on Sunday at the age of 59 after a medical emergency during a live performance of A Christmas Carol at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton, Canada. Arnold, a respected figure in Edmonton’s theater community, was performing the role of Fezziwig, Scrooge’s joyful and generous mentor.
Paramedics were called to the theater and made efforts to resuscitate him, but Arnold was pronounced dead at the scene. The Citadel Theatre announced his passing on social media, expressing deep sadness and mourning the loss of an iconic performer and friend.
Tribute from the Citadel Theatre
In an Instagram post, the Citadel Theatre shared their heartfelt condolences, describing Julien Arnold as a “gifted performer” whose presence lit up the stage.
“A cherished member of the Edmonton theater community, Julien Arnold was a gifted performer whose charisma and talent graced our stage in countless productions, including A Christmas Carol,” the statement read. The theater added that this year’s production of A Christmas Carol will be dedicated to Arnold’s memory.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Arnold’s widow, Sheiny, with funeral and related expenses.
A Legacy of Talent and Dedication
Julien Arnold’s theater career spanned decades, with memorable performances in numerous productions at the Citadel Theatre. He played iconic roles such as the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz, Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast, and Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. His credits also included roles in Sense and Sensibility, Spamalot, and Travels With My Aunt.
Arnold was also a founding member of Free Will Players, a theater company that organizes Edmonton’s annual Freewill Shakespeare Festival. He founded his own company, Atlas Theatre Collective, where he directed and starred in several productions. His outstanding work earned him accolades, including a Sterling Award for his performance in A Picasso at the Edmonton Fringe Festival.
A Dedicated Artist and Mentor
Born and raised in Edmonton, Arnold graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Alberta in 1989. He later earned a Master’s in Fine Arts in directing in 2006 from the same university. Beyond acting, he was deeply involved in mentoring and directing, contributing to the growth of Edmonton’s vibrant theater scene.
Arnold’s dedication to his craft, his warmth, and his ability to connect with audiences made him a treasured figure in Canadian theater. His performances left an indelible mark on both the stage and the hearts of his colleagues and fans.
Community Honors and Support
The Edmonton theater community is mourning Arnold’s passing. Photos and memories of his many performances are being shared by fans and fellow actors alike. His contributions to local theater have been celebrated as part of his enduring legacy.
The Citadel Theatre, alongside the wider community, will continue honoring his memory throughout this season’s production of A Christmas Carol. Supporters are encouraged to contribute to the GoFundMe campaign to assist his family during this difficult time.
Julien Arnold’s charisma, artistry, and passion for storytelling will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him or witness his talent. His passing is a profound loss to Edmonton and beyond.
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