Five performances spanning big band music, ballet, opera, film and jazz will take this fall as part of the Northern Colours Arts Series
The Sault Community Theatre Centre has announced the launch of the Northern Colours Arts Series, which brings Canadian artists and productions to Sault Ste. Marie throughout the fall.
Featuring five unique events spanning big band music, ballet, opera, film and jazz, the series marks the first time the SCTC has independently curated and presented a full series of professional performances under its own banner, according to a release.
“The name Northern Colours reflects two ideas that are central to this series,” said Garrett Abrams, theatre manager and artistic director of the Sault Community Theatre Centre.
“It celebrates the incredible colours of our region, from the forests and shoreline to our changing seasons, while also representing the many colours of artistic expression found across Canada.
“Our goal is to bring exceptional Canadian artists and productions to Sault Ste. Marie while creating meaningful opportunities for exchange with our community.”
Several productions throughout the series will feature opportunities for local participation, including young dancers performing alongside Ballet Jörgen’s professional company, local string musicians joining Big Bandemic on stage, and educational workshops connecting artists directly with the community.
Here’s the lineup for the 2026 Northern Colours Arts Series:
September 26 – Big Bandemic Presents: Big Band is Back! In The Mood
Step back into the golden age of swing with a spectacular evening featuring a 17-piece big band, two crooners, and a combined string section of local and visiting musicians. Dress in vintage attire, dance the night away, and experience the elegance of a bygone era.
October 4 – Ballet Jörgen’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream
One of Canada’s premier ballet companies presents Bengt Jörgen’s interpretation of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, reimagined amid the landscapes and wildlife of Canada’s north. The performance will also feature local young dancers through Ballet Jörgen’s acclaimed Local Participant Program.
October 18 – Opera Goes to the Movies
Juno Award-winning soprano Kathleen Radke returns home to Sault Ste. Marie for an evening celebrating iconic music from film, joined by three additional vocalists and local pianist Michael Connell in a blend of opera, cinema, and Broadway favourites.
November 8 – Northern Stories on Screen
Celebrate Northern filmmaking with a special two-film showcase. The afternoon begins with Ni-Naadamaadiz: Red Power Rising, a powerful documentary exploring Indigenous activism in northern Ontario, followed by a surprise feature film shot locally during the evening screening.
December 6 – A Swingin’ Christmas featuring Carmen Spada and the B-Jazzed Orchestra
Led by Sault Ste. Marie favourite Carmen Spada, The B-Jazzed Orchestra presents an evening of holiday jazz performed by world-class musicians.
Audiences can enjoy every performance in the Northern Colours Arts Series through a season pass for $215.
A three-show package is also available for $180, which includes:
● Big Bandemic
● Ballet Jörgen’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream
● The B-Jazzed Orchestra’s Holiday Jazz Concert
“Whether attending a single event or experiencing the full season, the Northern Colours Arts Series offers audiences the opportunity to explore an extraordinary range of Canadian artistic excellence while supporting the continued growth of professional arts programming in northern Ontario,” the SCTC said.
Tickets for all performances are on sale now and are available online or in person at the SCTC Box Office.