There are less than two weeks of classes left, but it’s hard to imagine there will ever be an end to the late nights studying and writing essays. Everyone seems to be scrambling to get prepared for final exams. In all the chaos, it’s easy to forget how to relax and have some fun. Re-teach yourself with the drama and dance as they end ’08 with reflective pieces and ring in the new year with lively shows sure to get you excited for ’09.
The Reeve Theatre will be host to a delightful slice of melancholy charm Nov. 25 until Dec. 6. Written by Karen Hines and directed by MFA student Jamie Dunsdon, Hello…Hello is a spin on the girl-meets-boy story, set in a dark and ominous future.
Theatre Calgary presents A Christmas Carol at the Max Bell Theatre, starting Nov. 21 until Dec. 24. The timeless classic explores how the past does not dictate the future and how simple truth and kindness can unharden even the scroogiest of hearts.
The Jubilee will be throwing a riot of colour, dance and music in the next two months. The fun starts with the lively and lovable Hairspray, presented from Nov. 25-30. Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance takes the stage Dec. 10, bringing you into the heart of the music and dance of the Scottish highlands. Alberta Ballet presents their take on the classic holiday story of The Nutcracker, December 17-22. Chicago will be heating up the cold winter nights and bringing a bang into the new year Jan. 1-4. Finally, the energetic and exhilarating world of percussion will be showcased in Stomp Jan. 13 and 14.
Vertigo Theatre brings the eccentric and energetic story of Trial and Eros: Elegant Heathens to Calgary Jan. 7 and 8. The story of an ecclectic group of five in their final stages of glory, Elegant Heathens is a tribute the vibrant spirit of humanity and the charm of the creative.
At the Martha Cohen Theatre, ATP brings the charming tales of the Sherwood Forest of Nottinghamshire county to life, Nov 24 till Dec. 28 with the whimsical Merry Adventures of Robin Hood. Celebrating the spirit of creativity and innovation, the 10-Minute Play Festival will run on Jan. 5. Then Scott Thompson of Kids in the Hall brings his one man comedy show, Scottastrophe, to Calgary Jan. 9 and 10.
Critically acclaimed choreographer, Peggy Baker will also be showcasing her talents, as well with her series of dance projects, entitled Radio Play. This amazing, once-in-a-life-time production will be at the Grand Theatre on Jan. 14.
Big Secret Theatre will also be joining the festivities. Doing Leonard Cohen, an unconventional stage adaptation of about 50 of Cohen’s poems, will be running Nov. 25-29. Both a tribute and an insight into the complex lives of the 20th century’s most infamous female literary figures, Sylvia Plath Must Not Die, will be brought to the stage Nov.r 29.