The Winter Gala

Please be advised: The Winter Gala will start at 6:30 pm.

As Alberta Ballet’s Artistic Director, I am thrilled to invite you to The Winter Gala this January—an annual tradition and a celebratory showcase highlighting the incredible talent of Alberta Ballet Company and Alberta Ballet School on one unforgettable evening. This stunning fusion of classical grace and contemporary artistry, set against an enchanting winter backdrop, brings together over 130 performers for one night only. Highlights include the iconic Les Grand Pas De Deux by renowned choreographer Christian Spuck and the bold energy of DEA by the talented Maria Konrad.

The Winter Gala promises an evening of unparalleled beauty, showcasing the artistry, athleticism, and emotive storytelling that define Alberta Ballet.

–Francesco Ventriglia, Artistic Director

Défilé Du Ballet
Performed by the Professional Division Students of Alberta Ballet School
Choreography: Artistic Staff of Alberta Ballet School

This programme will shine a spotlight on the exceptional Alberta Ballet School Professional Division students who are at the pinnacle of their training. Défilé Du Ballet, showcases their innate artistry and dedication and the highest level of classical ballet technique.

The Handover School to Company, set to the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Overture from Onegin, is a heartwarming and poignant transition, where the talented Alberta Ballet School students, representing the future, hand over the spotlight to the accomplished artistry of Alberta Ballet’s professional dancers.

Le Grand Pas De Deux 
Choreography: Christian Spuck
Music: Gioacchino Rossini (Overture to The Thieving Magpie)

A spirited satire of the traditional pas de deux, Le Grand Pas de Deux turns the spotlight on the often overly dramatic nature of ballet, inviting audiences to laugh and revel in its exaggerated elegance. With its tongue-in-cheek humour and dazzling choreography, this lighthearted yet masterful celebration of ballet’s artistry and wit promises an unforgettable experience. Choreographer Christian Spuck will be joining you in the audience to witness the talented Alberta Ballet dancers take on one of his most treasured and internationally significant works.

Raymonda Act 3
Choreography: Marius Petipa
Music: Alexander Glazunov

Raymonda Act III is a breathtaking display of classical ballet's grandeur, featuring intricate patterns, harmonious ensembles, and a dazzling array of solos and duets that celebrate the art form's timeless beauty. This grand wedding scene showcases the virtuosic choreography of Marius Petipa, set to Alexander Glazunov's sweeping and majestic score. Raymonda Act III is truly a crowning jewel of classical ballet.

DEA
Choreography: Maria Konrad
Music: Karen LeFrak  

DEA is a contemporary ballet choreographed by Maria Konrad, that explores themes of femininity, strength, and divine power, centered around the concept of a goddess who embodies both vulnerability and empowerment. Through dynamic movement and emotional depth, DEA invites the audience to engage with its powerful narrative

The Four Seasons
Performed by the Professional Division Students of Alberta Ballet School, with lead roles performed by artists of Alberta Ballet.
Choreography: Ashley McNeil, Aram Manukyan, Francesco Ventriglia
Music: Antonio Vivaldi

A journey through the rhythm of time, The Four Seasons is a ballet that celebrates the beauty and power of nature’s cycles. Set to Antonio Vivaldi’s iconic composition, this masterpiece brings each season to life with distinct choreography that captures its essence. Rich in emotion and artistry, The Four Seasons is a captivating experience that mirrors the ebb and flow of life itself, reminding us of nature’s enduring beauty and transformative power.

Bolero
Choreography: Francesco Ventriglia
Music: Maurice Ravel featuring Massimo Margaria

BOLERO delves into the challenges of human communication and the deep yearning to connect with one another. Set to the enchanting music of Maurice Ravel, with adaptations by Massimo Margaria, BOLERO creates a dreamlike space that reflects our feelings of isolation and our desperate search for connection.

Grand Finale
Choreography: Francesco Ventriglia
Music: Amilcare Ponchielli 

Set to Ponchielli's La Danza delle ore, which is a ballet section from the opera La Gioconda, this grand finale will feature Alberta Ballet Company and School dancers together on stage for a memorable and heartwarming conclusion to the perfect evening of dance.

Performed by Alberta Ballet Artists and Alberta Ballet School Students