There’s the Nutcracker, and then there’s Canada’s Ukrainian Nutcracker presented by Shumka. This spectacular annual Christmas production takes the beloved Christmas classic and offers it with a uniquely Ukrainian twist. Experience all the magic this December as it returns live to the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Stage, complete with re-imagined set pieces and stunning new costume designs.

Canada’s Ukrainian Nutcracker is a distinctly Edmonton production. It brings together a talented cast of Shumka dancers, youth from the Shumka School of Dance, and the Clara’s Dream Choir featuring members of the Kappella Kyrie Slavic Chamber Choir. This holiday season, Shumka’s Nutcracker is excited to extend its audience and reach with a tour through Victoria, Camrose, Medicine Hat, and Edmonton.

A folk ballet based on a classic tale, Nutcracker is a quintessential holiday story beloved by all generations. As the story goes, the Stahlbaum family is celebrating Christmas Eve, when young Clara is presented with a Nutcracker by her godfather. Clara’s mischievous brother Fritz breaks the toy, though it’s mended, thanks to the help of Clara’s Dream Choir. In the night, Clara goes to check on her Nutcracker when they are surrounded by a scurrying team of mice and their king. The battle is on, and when Clara saves the day, her Nutcracker is transformed into a prince, who whisks her off on a magical adventure featuring a spectacle of dance from around the globe.

Of course, in this version, a stunning display of Ukrainian dance takes a predominant role. It’s like watching a bright and beautiful alternate version of the Olympiad – faster, higher, stronger – one after another, dancers perform spins, tricks, and jumps that somehow, unfathomably, top their predecessors. There is something to be said for the ballet version of Nutcracker, but Shumka’s version just takes it to another level. It’s a beautiful coming together of story and music, and joyfully danced with grace, skill, and talent.

Don’t miss out on the magic of Canada’s Ukrainian Nutcracker presented by Shumka! Book your tickets now and discover the beauty of dance, community connection and story this holiday season.

Canada’s Ukrainian Nutcracker presented by Shumka:

Date: December 20-21, 2025
Time:  Saturday 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm; Sunday 2:00 pm
Venue: Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Address: 11455 – 87 Avenue, Edmonton
Website: www.shumka.com