In 2020, Calgary’s performing arts venues sat empty for months. In 2021 and 2022, the arts story was about survival; in 2023, the focus was cautious optimism. This year’s watchword seems to be inclusion as the city’s arts organizations rebuild for broader audiences.
Today, venues citywide are gearing up for world-class performances, focusing on attracting new audiences and reviving those who stayed home during the pandemic. Artistic directors have promised to unite the community — and audiences are responding in kind.
Several artistic directors told us which shows they look forward to in the 2024-2025 season and why we should be excited.
Alberta Ballet
Francesco Ventriglia, Alberta Ballet’s newest artistic director, has an impressive pedigree. His career spans the globe, and he has launched prestigious ballet projects in Italy, New Zealand, Australia, and Uruguay.
“This is my entire season,” he says. “I designed everything in the last six months… and we will open with La Sylphide in September [12].”
La Sylphide is Calgary’s first exposure to the iconic romantic ballet. Following this is GRIMM on October 17, a retelling of the Brothers Grimm fairy tales with dark undertones and impressive choreography. Ending 2024 is the holiday classic, The Nutcracker, premiering on December 13.
These three shows will dominate the Jubilee Auditorium, and all three are bringing new surprises to Calgary audiences. “Not only the ballet, even the music, the set, and the costumes, everything will be new for the first time on stage,” says Ventriglia.
Ventriglia believes that ballet can become essential to a Calgarian’s life. “If you have someone you love in your life — friends, family, or a special one — [that has] never been to the ballet, give ballet as a present,” he implores. “Allow them to escape into the theatre, and when the lights go out and the curtain goes up, they will experience a journey that will completely change their life.”
