Goddess of Slide: The Forgotten Story of Ellen McIlwaine with Musical Guest Rachelle van Zanten

Friday, Feb. 20, 2026
7:30pm to 9:00pm

Arden Theatre

Tickets are under $50

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Feb.
20

Goddess of Slide: The Forgotten Story of Ellen McIlwaine is a feature documentary about the legendary—and largely forgotten—Canadian singer and musician who fought for her right to play the slide guitar, a male-dominated instrument in a male-dominated world.

Goddess of Slide is a spirited musical journey of a 75-year-old female slide guitar virtuoso, Ellen McIlwaine, whose unbreakable faith in her talent kept her going. From a world travelling child with missionary parents to a rebellious life in rock and blues, McIlwaine established herself as the goddess of the slide guitar. Her storied road to stardom and long career deserves this spotlight and place in music history.

In addition to this regional premiere screening, audiences will be treated to a special opening set tribute performance by slide guitarist and singer Rachelle Van Zanten, and a post-screening question and answer session with filmmaker Alfonso Maiorana, moderator Holger Petersen and Rachelle Van Zanten.

Arden Theatre

5 St Anne Street
St. Albert, AB, T8N 3Z9