In Memoriam: Bernard Grant Reddick, Faculty of Arts

The University of Calgary was saddened to learn of the death of associate professor emeritus, drama, Bernard “Grant” Reddick, who made his final stage exit in Calgary, on April 4, 2025, at the age of 95. He is survived by his loving nieces, Maureen Lunden, Robyn Hines, and Lesley Woodley; his nephews, Grant Woodley, Dan Hines, and Chris Beach; and his great-nephews, Todd and Matt Skinner; as well as their children, Felix, Charlie, Esme, and August.

“When I was a young drama student from Bowness High School, I was fortunate to take a master class with Grant on career day at the university,” recalls Peter Balkwill, associate professor and division lead, drama, School of Creative and Performing Arts. “His towering and insightful leadership offered something beyond seeing a life in theatre as a dream; he made me understand that through hard work and dedication, that it could be a reality.”

Reddick's passion for the arts bloomed early, spending countless hours in his Crescent Heights backyard garden. He fashioned tiny puppets and theatre stages from backyard materials and fabric, performing works for the family. This childhood fascination with puppetry, foreshadowed his lifelong connection to the theatre.

The loss of his father to cancer at the young age of twelve left a significant mark. Despite this, the family remained a strong and supportive unit throughout the challenges of the war years. While his heart yearned for the stage and travel, Reddick heeded family advice to consider a practical alternative. This led him to a teaching program in Edmonton, where he specialized in drama and theatre. The pull of acting, however, remained strong.

In 1952, his dedication earned him a scholarship to the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in England. Following his graduation, he joined the newly formed Stratford Festival Company, Ontario for three seasons, sharing the stage with notable actors such as Lloyd Bochner, Christopher Plummer, and William Shatner.

In 1956, he returned to England for three more years of acting. A significant highlight of this period was the opportunity to tour Europe, including behind the Iron Curtain, with the legendary Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh. He performed in numerous plays, including at the Edinburgh Festival, and worked with BBC television.

Drawn back to North America in 1959, Reddick moved to New York City. For two years, he immersed himself in the vibrant acting scene, studying with renowned teachers such as Uta Hagen, Herbert Berghof, and Lee Strasberg, exploring the Stanislavski Method. He ultimately felt a calling back to his roots in Calgary.

Returning home, Reddick found a natural fit in teaching and he concluded his career in the University of Calgary’s drama department, eventually becoming associate professor emeritus. He served as a compassionate mentor and friend to his students. Throughout his teaching career, Reddick remained actively involved in directing and performing in numerous productions. Supporting the arts in Calgary was a lifelong passion. 

The University of Calgary offers deep thanks to Bernard Grant Reddick for the contributions he made to the university, his research field and the community at large. The flag on Swann Mall will be lowered to half mast on May 21 in tribute to his life.