Abrahamson, Cal (1930-)

Cal Abrahamson.

Saskatchewan Archives Board 71-991-50

Calvin David Abrahamson attended Teachers' College in Moose Jaw, the University of Saskatchewan, and the Banff School of Fine Arts. He received the Canadian Drama Award in 1955, Saskatchewan Drama Festival Awards in 1956, 1960 and 1967, and many awards for community service, including the 125 Anniversary Medal “for service to compatriots, community, province and Canada.” A member of the Order of Canada since 1989 in recognition of his work as executive director of Saskatchewan Community Theatre and former administrator of the Calgary Zoo, Botanical Gardens and Prehistoric Park, Abrahamson became an officer of the Order in 2002. Retiring from teaching, administration and business in 1995, Cal and his wife, Yvonne, formed the Montmartre Arts Council and Hurricane Hills Players. In 1998, he formed the “Circle of the Drum Players” at the Carry the Kettle Reserve. He wrote, directed and produced four plays based on social problems encountered on the reserve. One play was invited to a world conference in San Diego and to a North American Indian Youth Conference in New Mexico. Abrahamson was inducted into the Margaret Woodward Hall of Fame in 2002 for his contribution to theatre in Saskatchewan.

Lyn Goldman