The 60-year-old Canadian stage actor was playing the roles of Marley, Mr. Fezziwig and Banjo during a production of A Christmas Carol when the emergency occurred on November 24.
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A tragic incident struck the Canadian theater community as actor Julien Arnold passed away after collapsing during a live performance of “A Christmas Carol.” The incident occurred at Edmonton’s Citadel Theater on Sunday evening, with emergency services arriving promptly but unfortunately unable to revive the 60-year-old actor, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Arnold was cherished by his peers and audiences alike, known for his vibrant performances that brought characters to life. The theater’s executive director, Jessie van Rijn, and artistic director, Daryl Clora, expressed their sorrow, highlighting the joy and depth Arnold imparted through his work. They fondly remembered him as a beloved figure in Edmonton’s theater scene, emphasizing the loss felt by many.
David Horak, co-founder of Free Will Players, also shared heartfelt memories of Arnold, noting his remarkable ability to portray characters with immense warmth and kindness, traits he embodied in his personal life as well. The Citadel Theater paid tribute to Arnold on social media, recognizing him as a talented and charismatic performer who graced the stage in numerous productions.
Born and raised in Edmonton, Arnold pursued his passion for theater, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Alberta in 1989 and later a Master of Fine Arts in 2006. He established The Atlas Theatre Collective in 2008, further contributing to the local arts community. Arnold is survived by his wife, Sheiny Satanove, who has played a significant role in Edmonton’s theater scene as managing director of Punctuate! Theatre.
As his colleagues and fans mourn his untimely passing, the impact of Arnold’s work in theater will undoubtedly continue to resonate, reminding all of the joy he brought to the stage and the community.
