Beloved Edmonton Actor Dies During Performance of ‘A Christmas Carol’
Tragedy struck the theater community in Edmonton on Sunday, November 24, when beloved stage actor Julien Arnold passed away suddenly during a performance of “A Christmas Carol.” Arnold, 60, collapsed onstage during the evening performance at the Citadel Theatre and later died despite resuscitation efforts by paramedics. A cause of death has not yet been announced.
In a statement posted on Instagram, the Citadel Theatre expressed their immense sadness on the passing of Arnold, stating: “It is with heavy hearts we share the news of the sudden passing of Julien Arnold, a beloved actor and dear friend of the Citadel Theatre. “A cherished member of the Edmonton theatre community, Julien was a gifted performer whose charisma and talent graced our stage in countless productions, including A Christmas Carol.
June Gagnon, Director of Communications & Marketing for the Citadel Theatre added, “Julien’s passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, fellow Carol company members, Citadel staff, and the Edmonton community he loved so dearly. His presence brought joy, heart and depth to every role, and his artistic contributions – and big hugs – will be deeply missed.”
A Seasoned Performer with Deep Ties to the Edmonton Community
Known for his versatility and captivating stage presence, Arnold had taken on multiple roles at the Citadel Theatre throughout his distinguished career. He was playing Mr. Fezziwig in the holiday classic, a role he portrayed with his trademark warmth and charisma.
Beyond his contributions to A Christmas Carol, Arnold’s diverse talent had graced numerous other productions at the Citadel, including “the Wizard of Oz,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Once.” His dedication to the craft went beyond the stage, he was founded Boston-based Use this opportunity.
Arnold was a graduate of the University of Alberta, holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1989 and later completing an MFA in directing from the same institution in 2006. He had close ties to the Edmonton arts community and was a founding member of Free Will Players, a not-for-profit organization that produces the Freewill Shakespeare Festival every summer in Edmonton.
Remembering a Legacy of Passion and Talent
Arnold’s passing leaves a deep void in the Edmonton theatre community. His warmth, talent, and genuine passion for the arts made him a respected figure both onstage and off. In a heartfelt tribute, Arnold’s family announced a fundraiser to support his wife with funeral costs, time off work to grieve, rent and groceries. Grieving friends, colleagues and fans can donate via a GoFundMe campaign dedicated to honoring his legacy.
The Citadel Theatre announced the remaining performances of A Christmas Carol would be dedicated to Arnold’s memory.
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How did Julien Arnold’s sudden passing during a performance of “A Christmas Carol” impact the theater community and audience?
## Interview: Remembering Julien Arnold
**Interviewer:** June, thank you for joining us today. It’s been a difficult few days for Edmonton’s theater community following the sudden passing of Julien Arnold during a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at the Citadel Theatre. Can you tell us a little about Julien?
**June Gagnon:** Julien was more than just a talented actor. He was a truly beloved member of our theater family and the Edmonton community. [[1](https://www.imdb.com/news/ni64980355/?ref_=nwc_art_plk)]His warmth, charisma, and incredible dedication shone through in every role he performed.
**Interviewer:** He was known for his versatility. What were some of the roles Julien was most recognized for?
**June Gagnon:** Julien had a gift for captivating audiences, no matter the role. He graced our stage in countless productions, bringing life to characters both large and small. Obviously, his portrayal of the jovial spirit in “A Christmas Carol” was particularly special this time of year.
**Interviewer**: The news of his passing during the performance was shocking. What can you tell us about what happened?
**June Gagnon:** It was a truly devastating event. Julien collapsed onstage during the Sunday evening performance. Paramedics responded immediately and performed resuscitation efforts, but unfortunately, he passed away. The cause of death is still under investigation.
**Interviewer**: I can only imagine the grief and shock felt by the cast, crew, and audience.
**June Gagnon**: It’s been incredibly difficult for everyone. Julien’s presence brought so much joy and heart to every production. We’re all deeply saddened by his loss and will remember him fondly for the incredible artist and friend he was. [[1](https://www.imdb.com/news/ni64980355/?ref_=nwc_art_plk)]
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your memories of Julien with us, June. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved him.
**June Gagnon:** Thank you. His light will be dearly missed.
