The month, get out and see a holiday play, take in festive Christmas music, or check out the twinkling lights and holiday displays.
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Local performances and events spread Christmas cheer through the community, whether they are returning favourites or new holiday shows.
DANCING SKY THEATRE: BABA AND THE GIFT OF THE KOHKUM SCARF
This year, Baba is joined by her longtime friend Kohkum, and their friendship is tested by the Trickster. The panto celebrates the simple gift of caring at the heart of Christmas, while exploring the connection between Ukrainian immigrants and the Indigenous people who helped, supported and befriended them.
“I loved all the Ukrainian culture that was brought into the story last year. I’m looking forward to adding the Indigenous aspect and celebrating more cultural diversity of the show. New avenues to add this year, new sources of humour,” said actor Josh Beaudry, who plays returning character Sonya.
GORDON TOOTOOSIS NĪKĀNĪWIN THEATRE: LEAVE IT TO WEAVERS
Siblings who fell out of touch reconnect at home on the rez in time for the holidays, to discuss important news. When they hear hoofs on the roof, Anita decides she needs to stock the freezer.
“When Leave it to Weavers first hit the Broadway Theatre in 2020, we were limited due to the restrictions at the time, and that is why I’m so excited to give this unique series a second new breath of life. And sharing it with the community in person seemed like a wonderful start,” director Daniel H. Knight said.
SASKATOON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: HANDEL’S MESSIAH
For both shows, the orchestra is led by conductor Karl Hirzer and joined by the SSO Chorus and soloists Casey Peden, Andrea Ludwig, Spencer McKnight and Jayden Burrows. Audience members are encouraged to join in for the sing-along show.
“I think music is very important in bringing joy at this time of year. In general it brings joy regardless of what kind of music it is and also it brings people together of all ages. Usually in my family, we have music all around. It adds to the feeling of togetherness that everyone has at Christmastime,” said violinists and assistant concertmaster Drusilla Waltz.
FIRESIDE SINGERS: CHRISTMAS MEMORIES
Celebrating music, togetherness and the holiday spirit, the choir performs choral music, secular selections and timeless carols. They are joined by the Fireside Orchestra and guest artists Thomas Yu, Guy Few and Allen Harrington.
“I think the concert this year will bring our audience some much needed joy, comfort, and inspiration amidst the turbulent times we are living in. There are many songs that I anticipate will be very fun, exciting and uplifting, and many that will be very emotional and moving for our audience,” said production manager and choir member Kennedy Siba.
“On top of our exciting program and sensational guest artists, our choir and orchestra is made up of some of the kindest and most supportive, good people I’ve ever had the privilege to work with, and I believe that shines through in the performances and really creates special magic.”
MINI FRIDGE THEATRE: MURDER AT THE CAFE NOIR
When the café’s owner turns up dead, detective Rick Archer must find the killer before it’s too late. The suspect list includes the local madam and club manager, a voodoo priestess, a shyster British attorney, a black marketeer and a femme fatale.
“Who doesn’t want to spend their holiday in the Caribbean with dames, (private) dicks, and dead bodies?” said director Elizabeth Reynolds.
PERSEPHONE THEATRE: MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET
The classic holiday story brings Christmas magic as one little girl’s faith is Santa is put to the test when the new Macy’s department store Santa claims to be the real thing and no one seems willing to believe him.
“It’s such a funny and heartwarming show that all ages can enjoy. It’s been rare to have so many families come out to the theatre after the pandemic, and I can already tell this will be a magical experience for them. The atmosphere of collective joy between the cast and crew is electric, and I can’t wait for audiences to be added to that equation as well,” said Jonathon Pickrell, who plays the Parade Santa, Alfred and Mara.