On Saturday, October 1 the Calgary International Film Festival presents a kick-off party celebrating the longest-running hour-long drama in the history of Canadian television: HEARTLAND.

ADVANCE TICKETS ARE NOW SOLD OUT – RUSH LINE ONLY.

In September 2007, Calgary-based Seven24 Films, Dynamo Films and CBC launched HEARTLAND, to the delight of fans the world over. Since its debut, the show has grown into a phenomenon. Now, on the heels of its most-watched season ever, Canada’s favourite Western family would like to invite you to an advance screening of the season 10 premiere and celebration of all things HEARTLAND. 

You can attend the event, mingle with other fans, and get an early preview of what the next chapter of the story looks like. But this isn't just a "show up and watch" kind of event – we wanted to make it a true special experience. So we've pulled out all the stops to make it worth every penny.

We've invited the cast and crew (including Amber Marshall, Shaun Johnston, Graham Wardle, Alisha Newton and Spartan the horse) to join us for the screening, and they'll be fielding questions from fans about the show and what goes into making it. We'll be setting up props from the set, hosting a red carpet on Stephen Ave and featuring live entertainment. There will be plenty to keep everyone busy and we'll be announcing many more exciting details in the coming weeks! Whether you're a brand-new fan or a loyal viewer who's been watching from the start, it'll be a great way to spend a Saturday evening.

Penned by veteran TV writer and producer Heather Conkie, the premiere episode of season 10 features the hard-working, horse-loving Bartlett-Fleming clan struggling to face life’s challenges. As Amy (Amber Marshall) and Ty (Graham Wardle) prepare for parenthood, they work together to resolve a dangerous pregnancy issue. And Amy’s niece, Georgie (Alisha Newton), may be forced to give up something she loves when a demanding new nemesis arrives on the scene.

Featuring his singular, visual style, the episode is helmed by Bruce McDonald, one of Canada’s most celebrated directors. With sweeping vistas of the idyllic Alberta foothills as its backdrop, HEARTLAND celebrates the beauty and quiet dignity of everyday life, so we're celebrating too!

Showcase Alberta: Celebrating A Decade of Heartland is part of the festival's new Alberta Scene Series, which showcases and celebrates Alberta content screening at the festival. Showcase Alberta is a brand new event, beginning in 2016. It will continue each year, celebrating Alberta’s screen industry. 

Join CIFF and the show's cast and crew in the home of HEARTLAND – right here in Calgary! - for the inagural Showcase Alberta event. It all takes place at Flames Central, on October 1. Red Carpet/Doors at 5 PM, Screening at 6 PM.

Please note that although there is limited seating at the venue, this event is primarily standing. As this event is general admission, please come early if you wish to sit for the screening. If you have mobility issues and require a seat, please contact the Calgary International Film Festival at 403-283-1490 or boxoffice@calgaryfilm.com and we will be more than happy to assist you. This event is all ages.

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Additional credits for Heartland’s Season 10 Premiere (“There Will Be Changes”) 
Director of Photography: Jarrett Craig
Costume Designer: André Ricard

Additional Season 10 credits:
Directors: Bruce McDonald, Dean Bennett, Gail Harvey, Eleanore Lindo, Norma Bailey, Chris Potter, Pierre Tremblay, Ken Filewych, Alison Reid
Writers: Heather Conkie, Mark Haroun, Ken Craw, Pamela Pinch, Bonnie Fairweather
Editors: Ken Filewych, Kathy Weinkauf, Duane Martin   

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Joining us from out of town for the Heartland event? We have two special rates available for Heartland attendees on Saturday, Oct. 1: 
Ramada Downtown Calgary: $75. To book contact the hotel. p. 1-800-661-8684 or 403-263-7600 e. reservations@ramadacalgary.com Booking ID Code CGZ086
Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel: $139. Click here to book.