Vinok Worldance kicks up heels at Christmas
It is Vinok Worldance's 25th anniversary and for its traditional run of Christmas Around the World, it is hosting a special gala.
The gala launches the seasonal festivities on Nov. 15 with 13 folk dances from across the world and renowned Broadway singer turned priest, Father Edward Evanko of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic faith.
Evanko, who turned to the priesthood in his 60s, enjoyed an illustrious entertainment career that spanned nearly four decades in theatre, television and as a recording artist.
"He's quite well known and he will be singing a few Ukrainian songs," says Vinok dancer Paige Tirs. The St. Albert resident is also responsible for the dance troupe's marketing.
Tirs performs in 10 dances including a traditional Jewish Hasidic dance that has become Vinok's most popular offering.
"People like the music, the upbeat feel of the actual dance."
She also performs in a Croatian number laced with continual jumping and stomping, a Hawaiian dance that is reminiscent of swaying palm trees and a Dutch clogging dance wearing traditional wooden shoes.
"There's no give like leather and it takes some getting used to," laughs Tirs.
She also stars in a Spanish flamenco dance accompanied by seven-year old prodigy Harry Knight playing the classical guitar.
"This isn't your traditional Christmas show. You don't get traditional Christmas music. You see world cultures and how they may experience Christmas. And for each country, a narrator talks about what is typical to that country and what the special traditions are."
This year's host is Boris Derow, an accomplished singer and choir director. He has also travelled through Southeast Asia and the Arctic fronting a rock band.
The festivities run from Nov. 15 to 20 at Chateau Louis Conference Centre.
The opening night gala features a plated dinner at $200 per person including GST and a $100 tax receipt. All other nights are a buffet dinner at $80 for adults and $40 for children. Tickets are available online at Christmas.vinok.ca or by phone 780-454-3739.
Jane Eyre in concert
Two One-Way Tickets to Broadway presents a semi-staged Jane Eyre, the Musical at the Myer Horowitz Theatre on 8900 – 114 St.
Developed by composer-lyricist Paul Gordon, it is based on the novel by Charlotte Brontë. Directed by Linette Smith and stage managed by St. Albert's Jen Magel, it stars Martin Galba as Edward Fairfax Rochester and Sarah Bryn Mallandaine as Jane Eyre.
Tickets range from $13 to $23 and are obtained online at tixonthesquare.ca.
