Lethbridge arts champion Fran Rude dies at 86

Lethbridge's theater community has lost one of its brightest stars.

For 50 years, Fran Rood has played a central role in the Lethbridge arts community. He acted, sang and directed. Fran has staged more than 60 major productions. He was also a staunch supporter of the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra and the Kiwanis Festival.

Fran has been recognized with several awards over the years, including Woman of the Year, the Alberta Centennial Medal and the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal, and last year a very special award from the Allied Arts Council.

“In 2023, we were very pleased to have the opportunity to nominate her for the Joan Waterfield Memorial Award,” said Executive Director Jana McKenzie, “an annual award given to artists nominated by their peers. They are recognized for promoting and developing the arts in Lethbridge, so this is a very prestigious award and we are very pleased that it has been awarded in its final year.”

It was a rough 86.

In true advanced fashion, there will be no funeral. However, a reception to share memories will be held this Saturday at the Lethbridge Senior Citizens from 2 to 4 p.m.