Sault Community Theatre Centre Launches New Northern Colours Arts Series

The Sault Community Theatre Centre (SCTC) is excited to announce the launch of the Northern Colours Arts Series, a brand-new professional presenting season that will bring outstanding Canadian artists and productions to Sault Ste. Marie throughout the fall of 2026.

Featuring five unique events spanning big band music, ballet, opera, film, and jazz, the series marks the first time SCTC has independently curated and presented a full series of professional performances under its own organizational banner.

“The name Northern Colours reflects two ideas that are central to this series,” said Garrett Abrams, Theatre Manager / 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.

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 uniquely Canadian 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 25 – Opera Goes to the Movies. Juno Award-winning soprano Kathleen Radke returns home to Sault Ste. Marie for an unforgettable evening celebrating iconic music from film, joined by three additional vocalists and local pianist Michael Connell in a spectacular 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 & the B-Jazzed Orchestra. Led by Sault Ste. Marie favourite Carmen Spada, The B-Jazzed Orchestra presents an evening of exceptional holiday jazz performed by world-class musicians.