Rush is on
Nothing beats a cheap laugh, but what about a cheap ticket?
The Calgary Improv Brier kicked off March 13 with an evening filled with crazy people and gut wrenching skits, but getting to enjoy this hilarious improv comedy at a discounted rate was the cherry atop a nut-covered sundae.
LiveRush Calgary is a program specifically designed for students and the famous student budget, or rather the lack thereof.
High school, college and university students are able to purchase last-minute tickets at a discounted rate to many of Calgary’s entertainment endeavours.
“I’ve had a great experience,” said Laura-Anne Selbee, a longtime member of the LiveRush program.
“It’s easy to use and free, which is great,” she added with a grin.
There is no cost to become a LiveRush member and the only requirement is that the participant must hold a current student I.D. – full time, part time, continuing education, high school, you name it.
Students can purchase tickets an hour before their allotted show begins; any exceptions are posted on the website.
Ranging from $10-$20, tickets are significantly reduced for quick sale, and students can purchase two tickets at the discounted rate. The student’s guest doesn’t have to be a LiveRush member or a student — finally you have an excuse to take grandma to that play she’s been dying to see.
“We feel it’s really unique,” said Charis Birchall, marketing and programs coordinator for Calgary Arts Development.
“It’s a really exciting program that reaches new audiences.”
Birchall said that while the program is designed to serve students, it also helps organizations by filling last minute empty seats and reaching a new audience that may not normally engage in their productions.
Some of LiveRush’s partners include the Vertigo Mystery Theatre, the Calgary Opera, Alberta Ballet, and the Art Gallery of Calgary.
Of the nearly five years that Selbee has been a member, she has only missed attending one performance because of sold-out tickets.
“The best thing is to make sure tickets aren’t sold out. You can usually avoid disappointment that way,” said Selbee.
She suggests browsing the LiveRush website before the show and checking Ticketmaster to make sure the event still has room.
For Selbee, graduation is around the bend, leaving her with only five more weeks to enjoy this penny-saving program.
While sadness overwhelms her theatre-drawn soul, Selbee wishes the other 700 members and counting the best of times, and encourages the rest of the student population to get on board.
So what are you waiting for? Hit up the LiveRush website, liverushcalgary.ca, download your exclusive membership and enjoy some of Calgary’s best arts and entertainment without burning a hole in your wallet.