Performing Arts Scene Heating Up

Winnipeg may have a chilly reputation concerning winter weather but it's hot when it comes to its performing arts scene.
The Manitoba Theatre Centre brings the classics “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Steel Magnolias” to the mainstage, while the Prairie Theatre Exchange offers the world premiere of “Souvenirs” and the London box office smash, “Glorious!”

Winnipeg Jewish Theatre, now 22 seasons old, produces Harold Pinter’s “Betrayal” as part of MTC’s Master Playwright’s Festival this winter. Le Cercle Molière offers fantastic ‘en français' entertainment for francophone audiences, including a translation of the hit play turned hit movie, “Doubt”. Wee ones are continuously delighted by the many plays from Manitoba Theatre for Young People, celebrating 10 years at The Forks including a new adaptation of the Jungle Book and a live version of the classic children’s books, “Good Night Moon and The Runaway Bunny”.  Who wouldn't want to see that?

If you've come to get your francophone fix, Manitoba is the place! Look for performances inspired by la belle language throughout the year. And for a real treat, stick around in February as the world's largest kitchen party - Festival Du Voyageur - kicks off. Fancy fiddling, Métis dancers doing the Red River Jig - it's all there, along with traditional and contemporary sounds from across Canada. Grab a bowl of pea soup, pull up a bench and take your pick from Cajun, French Canadian, Aboriginal, rock, pop or a melancholy accordion tune.

For dance aficionados, there's really nothing that tops the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, celebrating its 70th season. Did you know that the Royal Winnipeg Ballet is the longest continuously operating company in North America? It's also Canada's premiere ballet company. This season, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents the time-honoured classics “Swan Lake” and the “Nutcracker”. And don’t miss the original ballet, “Moulin Rouge – the Ballet” this October.

The Manitoba Opera is Manitoba’s only full-time professional opera and this season offers two of the best loved operas of all time, “The Barber of Seville” and “Carmen”.

Prepare to bust a gut when the Winnipeg Comedy Festival chugs into town come April. Take your pick from dozens of shows featuring Canadian talent, local favorites and always one or two big name jokesters.