I’ll admit it, I am often down on Calgary; whether it’s the conservative flavour of our politics, the capitalism that runs rampant in our city, the sometimes backwards thought processes of our neighbours - it can often get to me. Once in awhile though, I am dumbstruck at just how lucky I am to live in such a place and be privy to so many great things. t the top of that list is the burgeoning theatre community in Calgary, and near and dear to the heart of many Calgarians is surely One Yellow Rabbit and their yearly High Performance Rodeo. This year, they celebrate their 20th anniversary of New and Experimental Theatre! Firmly established as Canada’s leading festival of new and experimental theatre, the annual High Performance Rodeo blows away conventional theatrical genres. Local, national and international artists have made the Rodeo their premier showcase for modern creative work in all performance fields (theatre, dance, music, poetry, visual, inter-disciplinary, and everything in between). This year, the Rodeo also incorporates a few select family-oriented performances into the festival. Along with the ‘regular’ offerings (if any of it can be deemed “regular”) are ancillary events such as Jaw Music, Mutton Busting, Freaky Faces and Stupid Tricks, Springboard: Interrarium and Wild Frontier, as well as several dance and event parties! Depending on the event, prices range from Free, Pay What You Can, or up to $99. Of course, the best deal of all is the High Performance Rodeo Pass for $189, although it still excludes a few major events – still there is no better deal on live performance in Calgary! All events are held downtown at one of the following venues: Vertigo Playhouse (9th Avenue & Centre Street S), Engineered Air Theatre, Big Secret Theatre and Motel (in Epcor Centre) and the Jack Singer concert hall. Complete schedule of events and all the info you need to know can be found at http://www.oyr.org/hpr_06 One Yellow Rabbit presents The High Performance Rodeo One Yellow Rabbit: (403) 264-3224 http://www.oyr.org