Julien Arnold, a veteran stage actor, suffered a devastating medical emergency on stage during a performance of A Christmas Carol at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton, Canada, on Sunday.
Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he sadly passed away at the scene.
A Cherished Member of the Theatre Community
Arnold was a beloved fixture in the Edmonton theatre scene, known for his charisma and talent. The Citadel Theatre paid tribute to him, saying, “Julien was a gifted performer whose charisma and talent graced our stage in countless productions, including A Christmas Carol.” The theatre’s statement went on to describe him as a “cherished member of the Edmonton theatre community” whose presence brought joy, heart, and depth to every role.
Remembering a True Artist
Friend and fellow theatre lover Lianna Makuch, who attended the performance, described Arnold as “a generous and magnetic performer—a true artist deeply cherished by the theatre community he loved so much”. The Theatre Network echoed these sentiments, saying, “Julien’s legacy will live on through the stories he told, the lives he touched, and the community he inspired. He will be deeply missed.”
A Dedicated Performance
Arnold had played a range of roles during his career, including Marley and Mr. Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol. In previous productions, he had brought characters like Bob Crachit, the Cowardly Lion, and Bottom to life on stage.
Supporting Those Left Behind
In the wake of this tragedy, a fundraiser has been started to support Arnold’s wife Sheiny with funeral costs, rent, groceries, and time off work to grieve. You can contribute to the fund and help make a difference for those who loved and cherished Julien.
A Life on Stage
Julien Arnold’s passing is a profound loss to the Edmonton theatre community and beyond. He leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and a community that will deeply miss him. As the Citadel Theatre so poignantly put it, “His artistic contributions – and big hugs – will be deeply missed.”
Keeping His Memory Alive
In honor of Julien’s memory, the Citadel Theatre has dedicated the season’s run of A Christmas Carol to him. This is a fitting tribute to a man who brought so much joy and talent to the stage. His legacy will live on through the stories he told and the lives he touched.