Canada’s Ukrainian Nutcracker by Shumka
Christmas 2025
Edmonton PLAYBILL
“A stunning take on a timeless classic.” – Colin Maclean
Canada’s Ukrainian Nutcracker by Shumka is a Christmas tradition in Western Canada. It blends the grace and lyrical nature of classical movement with the strength and power of Ukrainian character dance. It has left audiences exhilarated and entertained. The cast of over 80 features Shumka dancers, youth from the Shumka School of Dance, and the Kappella Kyrie Slavic Chamber Choir.
The production is a folk ballet based on the timeless Christmas classic, incorporating Ukrainian traditions, folk and character dance. The music is grand orchestral versions of the legendary score with specially added compositions. Ukrainian symbols are woven into lavish sets and costumes. The performance is a graceful, joyfully conceived presentation of magical enchantment embracing a classic tale.
Directed by Shumka’s Artistic Director Tasha Orysiuk, the production features choreography by National Artist of Ukraine Viktor Lytvynov and Shumka’s John Pichlyk. Additional music and score adaptations by Honoured Artist of Ukraine Yuri Shevchenko. Lighting design by Jeff Osterlin. Costume/Set design by National Artist of Ukraine Maria Levitska. Adaptations by Shumka Wardrobe Director Trinity Kenneth.
Performing with the Victoria Symphony Orchestra at the Royal Theatre in Victoria; at the Esplanade in Medicine Hat; the Lougheed Centre in Camrose; the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Edmonton.
NUTCRACKER NEWS
Stream Alberta Morning & Nutcracker Trilogy by CKUA Radio
Victoria Times Colonist Preview
La troupe Shumka met la culture ukrainienne à l’honneur avec son ballet Casse-Noisette;
Le Casse-noisette à la sauce ukrainienne;
Guest Artists
Kappella Kyrie Slavic Chamber Choir was founded in 2010 under the artistic leadership of Dr. Melanie Turgeon. Based in Edmonton, the choir is dedicated to preserving and sharing the centuries-old sacred music traditions of the Eastern Church while exploring a diverse range of choral repertoire. Guided by values of artistic excellence, collaboration, and community engagement, Kappella Kyrie has become a vibrant presence in Canada’s choral landscape.
In May 2025, the choir celebrated its 15th anniversary with Blending of Sounds at Edmonton’s Winspear Centre—an ambitious concert featuring two world premieres, guest choirs, acclaimed soloists, and a 58-piece orchestra. The program included the world premieres of Господні терези (Divine Scales) by Ukrainian composer Myroslav Volynsky and The Ogre by Victoria Vita Poleva.
Kappella Kyrie has performed with ensembles including Chorale Saint-Jean, The King’s University Chamber Singers, the Richard Eaton Singers, Shumayela Youth Choir, and the Calgary Youth Orchestra. The choir has collaborated with distinguished soloists such as Canadian tenor Benjamin Butterfield, Ukrainian baritone Yurii Hryhorash, and Canadian bass-baritone Russell Braun, and has recently worked with conductor-composers Mark Bailey and two-time Grammy nominee Benedict Sheehan.
Guided by artistic ambition and civic purpose, Kappella Kyrie continues to nurture choral life in Edmonton and beyond.
For more information, visit kappellakyrie.org
BEWARE OF THIRD PARTY RESELLERS IN EDMONTON
Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, Edmonton
December 20 – 21
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