The Nutcracker

The Alberta Ballet, led by artistic director Jean Grand-Maître presents world class dancing to Western audiences. Each year, the performances continue to stun audiences. A fusion of fresh and familiar stories enchant us, leaving us breathless at final curtain of each show. 

This season’s mix of classical, pop cultural works and contemporary pieces pay a nod to classic ballet’s foundations; sugar and an extra amount of spice is added to make each performance jaw dropping.

2018/2019 has been a thrilling season thus far. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Alberta Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Lauded by many as one of the finest interpretations of this holiday classic, Edmund Stripe sets his version smack-dab in the centre of Imperial Russia. He sticks close to Tchaikovsky’s score as we follow child heroine Klara in her quest to save Christmas. The choreography is precise and classical. Return viewers should keep an eye out for choreographic flourishes and guest appearances to mark the productions’s anniversary.

Meet A Ballerina

On Dec. 8, bring your kids or just come yourself and join the Alberta Ballet for an exclusive opportunity to get up close with a true ballerina. Alberta Ballet dancer, Reilley McKinlay, will be at Manulife Place for a one-day only meet and greet opportunity from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Reilley has recently danced in productions such as Jean Grand-Maitre’s Winter Room, Wen Wei Wang’s Futureland.

She will be available for photos and interviews to discuss what it’s like to be a dancer with the Alberta Ballet and to delve into her upcoming performance in The Nutcracker on Dec. 6-9.

 Come down to take pictures and get autographs with Reilley, as well as enter a draw to win an autographed pair of pointe shoes.