Honoring the Legends of the Edmonton Coliseum

As discussions around the future of the Edmonton Coliseum continue, a compelling and culturally rich proposal has emerged—one that envisions a revival of the historic venue not through demolition, but through celebration. Rather than erasing the past, this vision embraces it with tribute installations, special performances, and memorial art pieces that honor the musicians, athletes, and community figures who shaped its legacy.

Celebrating Heavy Metal Icons: Ozzy Osbourne, Rob Zombie & Filter

Also under consideration is a copper statue paying tribute to iconic performers who rocked the Coliseum stage—Ozzy Osbourne, Rob Zombie, and Filter. With families of the artists invited to the unveiling, this piece would reflect the genre-defying diversity of performances that took place at the Coliseum and the generations of fans who filled its seats. Estimated cost: $60,000.

A Return Fit for Royalty: Inviting Reba McEntire, Clint Black, and Wynonna Judd Back to Edmonton

Among the boldest of the proposed ideas is a heartfelt invitation to “The Queen of Country,” Reba McEntire, to perform once more at the Coliseum—joined by Clint Black and Wynonna Judd in celebration of their iconic tours to Edmonton.

This envisioned event would mark the unveiling of a majestic copper statue titled Queen Reba, depicting Reba McEntire holding her scepter high, flanked by Wynonna Judd and Clint Black, with Naomi “Momma” Judd lovingly standing behind them, hands placed on their shoulders in a gesture of generational strength and unity—facing the audience, just as they always have.

This statue would serve not only as a monument to country music’s enduring impact on the Coliseum’s legacy, but also as a powerful reminder of the emotional connection between artists and fans in this iconic venue.

A Tribute to Oilers Glory: Commemorating Five Stanley Cups

Another artistic proposal would see a copper monument commemorating the Edmonton Oilers’ five Stanley Cup wins, featuring key players from that legendary dynasty. This tribute would forever honor the city’s greatest hockey era and the electrifying atmosphere that once pulsed through the Coliseum.

Dual Legacy in Bronze: Dave Semenko and Muhammad Ali

A proposed statue would bring together two legends from very different worlds: Dave Semenko, a fierce yet beloved Oilers enforcer, and Muhammad Ali, the greatest boxer of all time. This powerful piece would symbolize courage, strength, and mutual respect—virtues both men embodied during their careers and visits to Edmonton.

A Wall of Legacy: Permanent Honors Inside the Coliseum

Alongside these statues, plans also include a commemorative wall within the Coliseum, celebrating each honored artist, athlete, and team with personalized plaques and visual displays. This living archive would allow visitors to trace the full breadth of history made inside the venue.

Rebuilding the Vision: A Better Investment Than Demolition

According to a recent discussion with Gary Green, referencing estimates from BBB Architects, building a brand-new arena would cost upwards of $1.2 billion. In contrast, revitalizing the existing Coliseum structure is projected to cost just $15–30 million—a fraction of the price.

Under this plan, 100% of the ownership shares would remain with the City of Edmonton, with public and private investments and donations welcomed to support the rehabilitation. This cost-effective approach would preserve the building’s rich cultural and sporting heritage, while transforming it into a modern-day community and event space.

Reimagining the Coliseum: A Legacy Reborn

The Edmonton Coliseum has hosted music legends, sports dynasties, and generations of unforgettable moments. These proposed tribute installations and commemorative events are more than nostalgic gestures—they’re a vision for a living legacy, where history is not only remembered but proudly displayed and felt.

From the roar of Oilers fans to the electrifying notes of Reba’s ballads and Ozzy’s anthems, the Coliseum is more than just a structure—it’s a cultural cathedral, and this proposal aims to restore it to glory, one memory at a time.