SASKATOON — The Royal Winnipeg Ballet premieres the enchanting production of Nutcracker at Saskatoon's TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre on Dec. 15 and 16.
In a special showcase of local talent, 42 young dancers will grace the stage alongside the RWB’s professional artists, bringing the Saskatchewan dance community together for this timeless classic. Dancers from Saskatoon, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Melfort, Dalmeny, Wadena, Borden, Unity and Martensville will be featured in various roles, including Dieter, party kids, mice, angels and more. A spectacle of Canadian charm and holiday magic, this iconic ballet is set to captivate audiences of all ages with its touching storyline, breathtaking choreography, and the iconic score of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
“We are pleased to travel to Saskatoon for Nutcracker and are delighted to include local dancers in two spectacular shows,” shares Royal Winnipeg Ballet Artistic Director, André Lewis. “Nutcracker is one of the best productions to bring the whole family together and feel immersed in the spirit of the holidays.”
The RWB's Nutcracker is beloved across Canada for its magnificent display of dance along with the heartwarming Canadian charm weaved into the classic storyline. Audiences will be transported through a world of imagination, adventure, and festivities, featuring unique and endearing Canadian scenes such as a pond hockey game and a battle on Parliament Hill, not to mention the lovable Filbert the bear.
Local Talent Takes Centre Stage
The talented young dancers that will be featured and shine in the performances were selected through auditions at Brenda’s School of Baton and Dance in Saskatoon. This year’s audition saw an impressive display of skill and passion among the spirited group.
“We love our ongoing relationship with the RWB. Students are thrilled with the chance to audition and perform for a production of this caliber,” shared Brenda Bennett, Director of Brenda’s School of Baton & Dance. “This association has not only provided performance opportunities, it has been a gateway for local dancers to connect with the prestigious RWB School Professional Division.”
About Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet (RWB) enriches the human experience by teaching, creating and performing outstanding dance. Founded in 1939 by Gweneth Lloyd and Betty Farrally, the RWB holds the double distinction of being Canada’s premier ballet company and the longest continuously operating ballet company in North America. The RWB received its ‘Royal’ designation from Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, the first Royal Charter granted during her reign.
As a result of the outstanding leadership of Artistic Director André Lewis, O.M., versatility, technical excellence, and a captivating style have become the trademarks of the RWB, qualities that have garnered both critical and audience acclaim. The RWB’s superlative standards keep the Company in demand across North America and beyond. In addition to the Company, the RWB is home to the RWB School, consisting of both the Professional Division, our internationally renowned dance education and training centre for aspiring professional dancers and dance teachers, and the Recreational Division, one of Winnipeg's largest dance schools for all ages, levels, and interests.
Submitted by The Royal Winnipeg Ballet
