Canada’s Ukrainian Nutcracker presented by Shumka

An annual Christmas tradition, the production blends the grace and lyrical nature of classical movement with the strength and power of Ukrainian character dance, leaving audiences exhilarated and entertained. The cast of over 80 features Shumka dancers, youth from the Shumka School of Dance, and beautiful voices from Edmonton’s Kappella Kyrie Slavic Chamber Choir, (a new partnership for 2025). Shumka is excited to announce this year’s Nutcracker will feature Shumka company members dancing the lead roles for the first time including Leda Tarnawsky (Clara), Nicolas Pacholok (Prince), Joshua Pacholok (Drosselmeier), and Annikka Dobko (Sugar Plum Fairy). This was always a dream for Shumka’s annual production. Touted as “Canada’s Ukrainian Nutcracker,” the production is a folk ballet based on the timeless Christmas classic. The production incorporates Ukrainian traditions, folk and character dance, grand orchestral versions of the legendary score with specially added compositions, Ukrainian carols and cultural symbols woven into lavish sets and costumes. Not only is Shumka’s Nutcracker a luxurious Christmas performance loved by all; it is also a truly collaborative production, created by an ongoing partnership between Ukrainian and Canadian artists. Music arrangements are by Yuri Shevchenko of Ukraine, choreography by Viktor Lytvynov of the National Ballet of Ukraine and former Shumka Artistic Director John Pichlyk. The production is under the direction of Shumka’s Artistic Director, Tasha Orysiuk. Costumes and sets by Maria Levitska of the National Opera of Ukraine, complimented by new costume additions by Shumka’s Trinity (Chopyk) Kenneth; and lighting by Edmonton’s Jeff Osterlin.