Let your soul shine as we travel throughout Africa & The Caribbean on an exciting journey through movement & dance. From traditional to modern Afro-Caribbean folklore-based movement, the Cultural Arts Studio will lead you through an energizing 45-minute group class designed for all levels.

SoulRhythms

Peter A. Herrndorf Place

Singing, dancing, games, story time and more! Toddler Tuesdays are the perfect morning activity for children aged 18 months - 5 years and the parents/caregivers who love them! Join instructor Jesse Kahat in Peter A. Herrndorf Place for a fully interactive exploration of the performing arts through creative play. 

Toddler Tuesdays

He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Ottawa as MJ, the multi Tony Award®-winning new musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own.

Created by Tony Award®-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. MJ is startin’ somethin’ as it makes its Ottawa premiere at the NAC!

EPSG:4326

National Arts Centre

Experience an unforgettable night at our Gala Concert in the Babs Asper Theatre. The centrepiece of the CFMA weekend, this highly anticipated gala event will feature live performances by an eclectic selection of nominees representative of the diversity and quality of Canadian folk music today. Celebrate with us as we recognize 20 years of folk excellence!

20th Anniversary Gala Concert

Babs Asper Theatre

Chef Resa Solomon-St. Lewis is the CEO & Executive Chef of her own catering business, Baccanalle, and is as passionate about cooking as she is about sharing her Caribbean culinary heritage.

Chef Resa is the host of her own cooking show on Rogers TV, the recipient of a Black History Ottawa Community Builder Award, and was recognised as one of the best woman-led food businesses in Canada by the Food Network of Canada.

Resident Chef Culinary Event

1 Elgin Restaurant

Final Symphony features original music by Nobuo Uematsu and Masashi Hamauzu in electrifying orchestral arrangements that reflect FINAL FANTASY's legendary vision and the journeys of its heroic characters. With over a decade of acclaimed, sell-out performances worldwide, Final Symphony offers the perfect night out at the NAC — not just for gaming fans but anyone who loves orchestral music of deep emotion and heartfelt sensitivity. 

Final Symphony: Music from FINAL FANTASY

Southam Hall

Tales of rebellion and forgiveness take centre stage in a pair of cinematic works by Richard Strauss: Till Eulenspiegel follows the hilarious hijinks of Germany's beloved folk hero, while the Rosenkavalier Suite evokes an operatic saga of love and renewal set in 18th-century Vienna. As part of the NAC Orchestra's Strauss Reimagined series, these works are paired with freshly inked compositions from Juno Award–winning Canadian composers Alexina Louie and John Estacio, each one resonating with the spirit and sounds of Strauss's lushly Romantic orchestral showpieces.  

Shelley, Strauss & Goosby's Debut

Dance in the enduring bright colours of family amidst social fragmentation as they keep the fire burning for generations. Qaumma, the Inuktitut word for light, is a sculptural theatre production recounting the inspiring journey of Inuit women who, despite the disruption of colonization, carve out their own legacies with language, guts, and culture. 

Qaumma

Azrieli Studio

American violinist Randall Goosby, who became ambassador for Music Masters in 2020, a role that sees him mentoring and inspiring students in schools around the United Kingdom, is guest soloist with the NAC Orchestra in Southam Hall on January 15 and 16. During his stay, he will lead a masterclass for uOttawa School of Music's violin students. 

Violin Masterclass with Randall Goosby

University of Ottawa: Perez Building, Freiman Hall

In 1983, legendary playwright Arthur Miller embarked on an audacious journey to China, joining forces with theatre luminary Ying Ruocheng and the Beijing People's Art Theatre. Their ambitious project? Staging a Mandarin-language production of Death of a Salesman, with Ying portraying the iconic Willy Loman and Miller – despite not speaking a word of Mandarin – directing. 

Salesman in China

Experience a vibrant and exciting celebration of Asian arts and culture in Ottawa! This unique multicultural event with an Asian flair brings together local artists, artisans, performers, and vendors from a diversity of communities and across the Asian diaspora to share their work, talents and traditions with the wider Ottawa community. 

Asian Community Arts Market

Purple Rain is the sixth studio album by the American singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Prince. It was released on June 25, 1984, by Warner Bros. Records as the soundtrack album to the 1984 film of the same name. 
Purple Rain became Prince's first album to reach number one on the Billboard 200. It is Prince's commercial peak, with total sales standing at 25 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time.

Classic Albums Live: Prince

Akawui is a Canadian songwriter-composer-performer of Chilean and Mapuche Indigenous origin. He was introduced to South American folk music at a very young age. It is through that experience, as well as his Indigenous cultural heritage, that his musical blending is inspired. Performing most often in Spanish, Akawui has found a unique sound in Latin/alternative/urban music. It fuses hip-hop, rock, elements of electronic music, as well as folk songs and sounds from around the world. For urban alternative music lovers of the world, this artist unifies the tribal with the modern. His texts carry a committed message that tells the reality of various communities and highlights the human condition. On stage, Akawui offers a dynamic performance, both powerful and tender. 

Akawui

Fourth Stage

Join us for a hands-on Fringe Moccasin Workshop, where tradition meets creativity.  This immersive experience invites you to learn the intricate techniques behind crafting your own custom pair of fringe moccasins, perfect for any occasion. Under the guidance of a skilled Anishinaabe kwe, you'll discover the rich history and cultural significance of moccasin design, and learn how to work with soft, supple leather, threading, and decorative fringe accents.

Fringe Moccasin Workshop

Atelier Shenkman Smith

Capital Sessions and the NAC are bringing you a series of FREE community house dance workshops.

Learn basic house dance steps from a different amazing house dancer every time. 

You will hear a different talented DJ every time.

It's family and beginner-friendly. The DJ plays deep soulful house music from 1:30 to 3:30 pm and the dancer leads two 30-minute workshops at 1:30 and 2:30 pm. You can just dance, learn or listen and vibe out, it's a beautiful space with amazing music.

Capital Sessions

The NAC and the uOttawa School of Music have a long-standing relationship. Among other events, the NAC hosts uOttawa School of Music students in chamber recitals offered in the NAC's Fourth Stage.

This series of three concerts showcases students in the uOttawa School of Music who represent excellence in the performance sector. Nominated by their professors, students from a variety of instrument areas are selected to perform solo recitals and the National Arts Centre, and one concert of the series is programmed with uOttawa's best chamber music ensembles.

uOttawa at the NAC

The Adema Manoukas Octet is an energetic eight-piece ensemble co-led by Nick Adema and Alex Manoukas. All of the band members attended the University of Toronto together, and it was here where the band's initial bond was formed. Over several years, that band has been regularly performing at the Rex Hotel in Toronto, performing a wide variety of arrangements to find the band's sound.

Adema Manoukas Octet

Our concert opens with music from British composer Hannah Kendall. The Spark Catchers is inspired by the work of British poet Lemn Sissay, who memorialized the “matchwomen” of the Bryant and May match factory in London. The women went on strike in 1888 to protest their dangerous working conditions. 

American saxophonist Branford Marsalis is known the world over for delivering boundary-pushing performances—pure truth in jazz. He will perform “Neruda Songs” by composer Peter Lieberson, based on the intimate love poems of Pablo Neruda. This fresh arrangement, for saxophone and orchestra, “traces the arc of love’s evolution” (laphil.com)—intensely emotional and filled with happiness and longing. 

Branford Marsalis: Cinematic Sax

Come join Jessica Dumont for this beaded flower earring workshop!  
In this 3-hour workshop, Jessica will guide you through the earring making process where you can share your process and ask questions along the way. 
Suitable for beginner beaders and experienced beaders alike, ages 16 and up. Workshop will be delivered in English.

Beaded Flower Earring Workshop

Join us for an intimate evening of live music at the National Arts Centre's Fourth Stage in Ottawa, featuring Canadian singer-songwriters Joe McLeod and The Public Service Duo. Both artists are renowned for their ability to weave powerful stories through their music, creating an atmosphere of connection and community.

Joe McLeod has made a name for himself in the Canadian music scene with his heartfelt lyrics and evocative performances. His sound blends folk, pop, and rock, and his recent album, The Dancer and the Bear, showcases his unique ability to capture the emotional depth of life’s experiences. Joe's music has been featured in multiple seasons of The Canadian Tradition television show, and he has toured extensively across North America, Japan, and Germany. Known for his live performances, Joe McLeod’s songs often reflect personal journeys and resonate deeply with audiences.

An evening with Joe McLeod & The Public Service Duo

¿Quién eres? (Who are you?), singer–songwriter Maritza’s new show, proposes a musical journey about resilience. Known for the depth of her songs and her ability to touch people’s hearts, Maritza released ¿Quién eres?, her first album in Spanish, in 2022. It’s an artistic project inspired by a process of self-empowerment. 

Born in the Dominican Republic, Maritza reconnects in this show with her mother tongue, which she quickly forgot after being adopted very young by a Francophone couple from Quebec. She embraces her roots, infusing her lyrics with the rhythms of her long-lost Hispanic heritage. 

Maritza

Join us in the NAC’s Atelier Shenkman Smith for Bougie Birch's Dreamcatcher Workshop. Under the guidance of Indigenous artist and educator, Ashley Clark, craft your own dreamcatcher in a 1.5-2 hour session. We supply the materials; you bring the inspiration.
Dive into Indigenous artistry, learn about the resilience of Indigenous communities throughout history, and be part of a hands-on experience that bridges cultures. With Bougie Birch, it's more than a craft – it's a journey into heritage. Come, connect, and create.

Dreamcatcher Workshop

In January 2025, you’ll be able to witness the incredible union of musical talent at the NAC!  

The Atlantic Ocean separates Cuba and Senegal, the respective birthplaces of piano virtuoso Omar Sosa and kora maestro Seckou Keita, a distance diminished by their shared ancestral connection to Africa.  

When the pair met in 2012, Seckou loved Omar for his musical spirituality, whilst Omar saw in Seckou a rare ability to collaborate but not lose his identity. Their debut album Transparent Water (2017) was hailed as ‘beautiful, rhapsodic… spiritual’ (Songlines) and ‘mesmerising, evocative and sophisticated’ (World Music Central). 

Omar Sosa & Seckou Keita

Experience all the feels as Principal Youth Conductor and Creative Partner Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser leads the NAC Orchestra in a program designed to showcase how a range of emotions can be expressed — and experienced — through music. Hear works by Beethoven, Nielsen, and other evocative composers! ​ Canadian visual artist Holly Carr will help bring the music to life, painting an 8-foot silk mural on stage in real time, vividly reflecting the themes of Mad, Sad, and Glad.

Mad.Sad.Glad: A Symphony of Emotions 

Join us on Mondays for story time with Luana. Delight in tales that will sweep you away on journeys through magical worlds where you will meet enchanting characters. All accompanied by crafts and games. 

This event occurs in French only. It’s an excellent opportunity for bilingual and francophone families alike!

Les lundis des tout-petits

Like a cathartic conversation with your work bestie, John Dela Cruz (Nurse John) delivers comedy filled with trauma dumps, tears, screams and laughter as he reflects on the highs and lows of working in the service industry. A nurse by profession and a comedian at heart, John’s portrayal of life in healthcare is hilariously relatable to both industry insiders and the general public. His spot-on observations and comedic timing have garnered him over 12 million followers worldwide, with his popularity growing daily.

Nurse John

Take a jazz journey to foreign lands and fantastical places with a sextet from the Ottawa Jazz Orchestra as your global guides. In this programme they will explore some of the grooviest, evocative, and ethnically-inspired tunes from the jazz melting pot with contributions from Lee Morgan, Wayne Shorter, Duke Pearson, Horace Silver, Herbie Hancock, Duke Ellington, and more.

Ottawa Jazz Orchestra

The Montréal duo of harpist Sarah Pagé (Nadah El Shazly) and percussionist Patrick Graham (Constantinople) present their new self-titled debut album, Littoral States, alongside Ottawa solo cello powerhouse Raphael Weinroth-Browne for what promises to be an enchanting and otherworldly evening of instrumental music. They know the NAC stages well, so we just know their show will be incomparable!

Sarah Pagé & Patrick Graham + Raphael Weinroth-Browne

Since he released his first album a decade ago, singer-songwriter Donovan Woods’ blend of folk, country and pop has resonated with audiences all over the world, not to mention the NAC!

Honest and unflinching, on Things Were Never Good If They’re Not Good Now, his upcoming seventh studio album, Woods takes a long look inside and isn’t necessarily thrilled with what he sees. For an artist who isn’t afraid to bear his soul, this is as emotionally gritty as he has ever been.

Donovan Woods

Accompanied on stage by a Congolese guitarist, a rhythm rock guitarist and a DJ, Kizaba sings and plays drums and percussion, blending electronic music with traditional Congolese sounds to create an Afro-futuristic universe. As part of this unique and fascinating performance, images of 3D masks are projected onto a screen installed behind the group. Designed by Kizaba himself, the visuals are reminiscent of traditional Congolese masks, to which he adds a futuristic touch to transport the audience into another dimension. Kizaba is also a practitioner of sapology, reflecting the SAPE culture established by the Société des ambianceurs et des personnes élégantes (literally, “Society of Influencers and Elegant People”). Through his fascinating and energizing Congolese Afro-electro musical style, Kizaba seeks to create unifying music that engages and captivates audiences.

Kizaba

Jesse Kahat: (she/her) Jesse is an actor, director, choreographer, dance instructor, and music teacher. She has a BA in Theatre Directing from the University of Northern Colorado and an MA in Business Communications. She has been teaching Ballroom dance since 2005 and has been a music instructor since 2011. She has been taking part in the performing arts her entire life and is active in the National Capital region's community theatre scene as a performer, director, choreographer, stage manager, and board member. She has been running the Toddler Tuesdays program since it began in 2017 and has loved interacting with all of the families that have joined her throughout the years.  Her passion is strengthening the family bond by helping parents and caregivers explore the performing arts with their children in a relaxed and fun environment.

“The demon speed of Montreal-born pianist Marc-Andre Hamelin’s finger work, along with his passionate musicianship, have earned him 7 Juno Awards and 11 Grammy nominations. ”

Hamelin & Beethoven's "Emperor"

Steph Tolev caught fire on the “BILL BURR PRESENTS: FRIENDS WHO KILL” Netflix Special, that was taped as a part of the Netflix is a Joke Festival. She was named a COMEDIAN YOU SHOULD AND WILL KNOW by Vulture, which recognized her one of Toronto’s funniest exports. She was featured on Comedy Central’s THE RINGERS stand up series, and season two of UNPROTECTED SETS. Steph will appear in the upcoming feature DRUGSTORE JUNE, as well as OLD DADS starring Bill Burr, Bobby Cannavale, and Bokeem Woodbine. She has appeared in Comedy Central’s CORPORATE, and starred in an episode of the Sarah Silverman-produced PLEASE UNDERSTAND ME. Steph has been well-received at festivals all over the world, she can be seen performing all around LA, including The Comedy Store where she is a paid regular, and headlines clubs across the country.

Steph Tolev

Le Canadien errant chronicles the experience of a minority Francophone settling in the heart of a major French-speaking city, and showcases Francophone cultures outside Quebec, exploring a unique cultural identity that will charm Francophone audiences here and elsewhere. The three multi-instrumentalists deliver a maximalist sound, with Lepage's airy melodies blending perfectly with Ponteix's psyche-pop indie rock to set a vibrant, neon-lit psychedelic mood.

Ponteix

Come join Stephanie Peltier of Deliaestelle Designs for this beaded earring workshop!

Beaded Earring Workshop

His upcoming release, Chasing the Sun, finds the blues-rock singer-songwriter’s electrifying 21st studio album featuring the kind of towering musical guests typically found on the other side of velvet ropes. Co-produced by Colin Linden, guest artists include Americana icon Lucinda Williams, bassist Darryl Jones and drummer Charley Drayton (who have backed Miles Davis and The Rolling Stones) plus American harmonica ace Charlie Musselwhite and gospel greats Ann and Regina McCrary.

Colin James: Chasing the Sun 2025 Tour

WolfGANG Sessions at Club SAW is a night of music that is sure to entertain. Grab your adventurous friends and take them out for a wild night of chamber music with your favourite musicians from the NAC Orchestra and special guest John Storgårds.

WolfGANG Sessions #25

Club SAW

Featuring the music of Francis Poulenc, one of France’s greatest composers, this show presents the remarkable story of King Babar. Majestic, entertaining, and moving, this show captures the adventures of the little elephant while presenting an evocative array of musical forms: the lullaby sung by Babar’s mother, the Musette waltz of the pastries, the wedding march and polka, and the lovely finale – a nocturne bathed in moonlight.   

L’histoire de Babar, le petit éléphant 

Her voice was undeniable. Her fire was unstoppable. Her triumph was unlike any other.

An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.

TINA – The Tina Turner Musical

There is something truly captivating about Newfoundland’s multi-award winning singer-songwriter Kellie Loder. They are a gifted and accomplished storyteller with a voice that conveys warmth and power. Their lyrical brilliance is honest and vulnerable in ways that make the music feel deeply personal inspiring profound emotion among audiences with their heartfelt songs, playful charm and exhilarating live show. Described as, “a multi-genre marvel,” Kellie’s musical journey began on the shores of Newfoundland & Labrador, lending to their unmatched songwriting prowess, and distinctive blend of folk, Americana and indie pop influences.   

Kellie Loder

On November 8, 1946, Viola Desmond entered the whites-only section of the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia. Unaware that the theatre was segregated, Viola took a seat on the main floor instead of the balcony where Black patrons were expected to sit. Although she offered to pay the one cent tax difference, Viola was dragged from the theatre, jailed, and charged with tax evasion. 

Controlled Damage

Join us for a lively and engaging conversation with Controlled Damage Director Cherissa Richards and professor and award-winning journalist Nana aba Duncan, as they chat about Andrea Scott’s play, giving insight into the story and Canadian icon Viola Desmond.

In addition, the discussion will touch on Cherissa’s process, insights and experience as a Black woman working in Canadian Theatre.

Black Out Night Pre-Show Chat

Canada Room - Arctic

Explosive energy and a lot of fun! El Balcón is coming to the Big Bang Festival for the first time, bringing their lively Latin rhythms that are sure to make the whole family groove!

El Balcón captivates audiences with their fiery stage presence and dynamic sound. Leading the new wave of original Latin music in Quebec, this close-knit group stand out with their palpable camaraderie. Like a global journey without borders, these incredible artists will take you on a ride that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

El Balcón

After the performance of Andrea Scott’s Controlled Damage, show attendees are invited to step back in time and revel in an evening inspired by the glamour of the Harlem Renaissance and the Roaring Twenties. Embracing the spirit of the era—guests are encouraged to dress to impress in period-inspired attire

Renaissance: Official Black Out Night After Party

Canada Room

Everywhere there are sounds, balls and plastic bags—spinning, falling, colliding! Agile bodies and dulcet voices become literal instruments. On a pared-down stage, adorned simply with a blanket of light and riveting drums, a festival of sensations, acrobatic acts and rapturous sounds is ready to emerge, as if a hectic street in Maputo had come to life on stage. 

It’s so contagious you’ll have no choice but to start moving to the beat of these virtuoso artists with absolutely astounding skills. It’s a chance to reconnect to what may be the true purpose of the performing arts: a good excuse to get together. 

Maputo-Mozambique

Step outside the NAC on a beautiful February day, and step into a BIG BANG Music Room like no other. Bring your jacket and boots for this one as we have a secret and special shelter in store, the perfect space to meet Sylvia Cloutier. It is time to get to know the musical traditions of Inuit Nunangat (the land where Inuit live), through song, storytelling and dance. 

Music Rooms: 3

Fountain Room

Saguenay-based artists Sara Létourneau and Chantale Boulianne will capture your imagination as they build a giant instrument before your very eyes. Using just everyday objects, they will produce a whole range of sounds and something magical. Get ready to witness intense and frenzied musical carpentry, leading up to the formation of music box like you've never seen before. 

Music Rooms: 2

A tap dancer, a sound artist and a strange pair of shoes. Clic-clac-tap-tac-tipi-tap-tap... This talented duo invites us on an unexpected journey through dance and abstract sounds!

Pierre-Luc Clément is a multi-instrumentalist, sound designer, director and conceptual artist who has made some fantastical creations, like the popular The Aerophone installation for BIG BANG in 2024. David Lafleur is an acclaimed tap dancer and a sought-after dance educator in the Ottawa-Gatineau region, his fast-moving feet will impress audiences of all ages!  

Music Rooms: 1

Named after the ravenous Northern Ontario mosquitos that joyfully feasted on the three founding bandmates during their original rehearsals, this group will have you itching to dance!

Hailing from the vibrant melting pot of Toronto, Moskitto Bar weaves together a beautiful and original mix of Ukrainian, Balkan, Iraqi Middle-Eastern, and French Celtic music. With members from around the world, these engaging performers create infectious music. Featuring accordion, violin, oud, upright bass, clarinet, and percussion - they sound like nothing else!

Moskitto Bar

Join us on Mondays for story time with Luana. Delight in tales that will sweep you away on journeys through magical worlds where you will meet enchanting characters. All accompanied by crafts and games. 

This event occurs in French only. It’s an excellent opportunity for bilingual and francophone families alike!

About Luana:

Luana was born out of stardust and is here to teach all of us—big and small—how to ride the waves of our emotions! Luana’s stories and cast of characters take kids on a journey into magical worlds where their imaginations can run free as they learn how to identify their emotions, notice how their emotions feel in their body, and appreciate the wonderful gifts our feelings give us. Kids will learn how to harness their sensitivity and intuition, and listen to and nurture their relationship with themselves.

A summer holiday in the Bohemian countryside inspired Antonín Dvořák to compose his tranquil Eighth Symphony, where the composer weaves the traditions of Czech folk music with his own romantic melodies to evoke the beauty of his surroundings. Although this is a work of abstract music (meaning it doesn't tell a specific story), listen closely and you'll hear the enchanting sounds of summer — from beautiful birdsong to the echoes of a shepherd's horn and even a rumbling thunderstorm

Bancroft, Dvořák & Clara-Jumi Kang

Mayday is the third LP by Montreal-based artist, Myriam Gendron, and she will be performing it at the NAC. It follows her earlier, critically acclaimed albums, Not So Deep As A Well (2014) and Ma délire – Songs of love, lost & found (2021). Prior to her debut album, Myriam's primary musical focus was busking in Paris Metro stations, performing the songs of Leonard Cohen and others, accompanying herself on guitar. Through her day job, working at a Montreal bookstore, Myriam discovered the poems of American writer, Dorothy Parker, who was better known for her cutting wit than her verse. Inspired by Parker's words, Myriam wrote music to accompany a suite of them, then recorded the results in her bedroom.

Myriam Gendron

“Powerful dialogue on the legacy of inheritance with Adeline, a young krump prodigy, and contemporary dancer Siaska Chareyre.”

Maud Le Pladec feat. Jr Maddripp

Since the June 2024 release of his latest album, L’Osstidtour, D-Track has been preparing a unique new show that he’ll be performing across Quebec—and at the NAC, of course! 

Known first and foremost for his writing, his authenticity, and his freestyle talent, the Gatineau-based hip-hop artist has also made a name for himself on the slam scene, taking part in numerous international competitions. His performances earned him the title of Quebec Slam Champion in 2013 and fourth place at the 2014 World Cup in Paris. 

D-Track

Duke Ellington’s landmark symphonic jazz composition, Black, Brown and Beige is perhaps the most significant work in the jazz repertory. Composed as a musical parallel to the history of the Negro in America, it tells the history of African Americans through slavery, emancipation, civil war, and their ascendancy in Harlem. This seminal jazz symphony was only ever performed in its entirety by Ellington’s orchestra a handful of times in 1943. In the many decades since, it has rarely been heard live.

Duke Ellington's Black, Brown and Beige

Come witness the most interactive comedy show in the world at the NAC! HYPROV is a live show that combines the best of hypnosis and improv comedy with hilarious consequences!  

The only show where an audience member becomes the star! HYPROV is composed of two star members: Colin Mochrie, who is a Canadian comic genius, an alumnus of Toronto's famous Second City comedy troupe, and widely considered to be one of the leading improvisers in the world. And Asad Mecci, whose jaw dropping performances have captivated audiences worldwide. He has performed in front of over 1.5 million people live and millions more through mass media. 

HYPROV: Improv under Hypnosis

Let your soul shine as we travel throughout Africa & The Caribbean on an exciting journey through movement & dance. From traditional to modern Afro-Caribbean folklore-based movement, the Cultural Arts Studio will lead you through an energizing 45-minute group class designed for all levels.

These weekly soul-inspiring and energizing sessions will connect your mind, body, spirit (and hips) to the infectious celebratory rhythms of Africa & The Caribbean.  

The work of Montreal choreographer Virginie Brunelle is infused with a rigorous and relentless physical vocabulary. Inspired by the power of rhythm that she learned playing violin in her childhood, she approaches each of her dance creations with a deep dive into musical research that then guides and inspires her creative process. The success of her first work in 2008 propelled her career, earning her numerous awards and honours for her original choreographic aesthetic.   

Compagnie Virginie Brunelle

Samba Touré's music is characterized by hypnotic guitar grooves radiating with the intensity of the desert sun. It transcends borders, creating an authentic and groundbreaking sonic landscape—a journey of emotional depth and rhythmic brilliance where tradition meets innovation, resonating with the spirit of Northern Mali.  

Renowned Malian guitar legend, he is celebrated for his distinctive style that not only mirrors but also elevates the enduring legacy of the legendary Ali Farka Touré, with whom he toured worldwide. The genesis of their association traces back to the 90s when Ali Farka Touré discovered the young singer while he played with Farafina Lolo, Samba’s initial group, which gained immense popularity in Mali.  

Samba Touré

What happens when a creative company known for films dredges up a too oft-overlooked piece of theatre from the vaults of the past by titan of film Pierre Perrault? We find ourselves thrown onto the banks of the river, right in the middle of the unrelenting wilderness and complex fates, dreaming of half-obscured horizons. 

This bewitching maritime tale takes place on an island with a lighthouse, where a pair of taciturn parents live with their daughter, portrayed by the dazzling Nahéma Ricci, breakout star of the film Antigone by Sophie Deraspe. One day during a storm, the sea spits out a schooner, along with its captain and sailor. The young woman is immediately struck by a passion and zeal for exile as she strikes out for freedom. When a heart aflame stands up to the establishment, a storm is due, and no one can say which way the wind will blow. 

Au cœur de la rose (Généalogie d’une tristesse)

Conductor Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser is back for another musical party at Southam Hall featuring steelpan soloists in this brand-new concert series celebrating the history of Afro-Caribbean calypso music. 

Your eyes and ears do not deceive you – come witness the enticing sounds of steelpan drums at the NAC. Take a musical journey to Trinidad and Tobago, the heart and homeland of calypso music, with conductor and NACO Creative Partner Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser in this co-commission with the NAC Orchestra and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra! 

Steelpan Symphony

Golden-era taste, future-era based. Tylenol 3 for capitalist migraines. Resistance-based debauchery for disaffected baddies. Super Duty Tough Work is a constantly evolving art-rap ensemble with their intentions set on pushing a radical politic of revolution, party and bullshit. Inspired by the dirty jazz sample sound of 90s East Coast hip hop and revered for their methodically curated sets, SDTW mix laidback rap action and razor-sharp delivery with hypnotic loops and effortless transitions, keeping audiences on their toes and excited for what’s next. These 2X Polaris Prize nominees and 2024 WCMA Rap Artist of the Year excel as much live on stage as they do in the studio with their fresh take on tradition in a movement where loops are slayed and jewels are tools of the trade. Come witness this innovative performance at the NAC! 

Super Duty Tough Work

Named as one of ‘The 25 Greatest Canadian Singers Ever’ (CBC Music), she has been dubbed ‘Canada’s Queen of R&B Soul’ by fans and industry leaders alike. As a platinum selling recording artist, her music career has yielded multiple singles reaching the Top 10 pop, R&B and dance music charts. She has taken home Juno and Gemini Awards, sung for the Queen of England and inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2021 (PILLARS OF EXCELLENCE - Arts & Entertainment). With her powerhouse vocals, hilarious personality and love of people, Jully Black truly is everyone, and unlike anyone.

Jully Black

Luana was born out of stardust and is here to teach all of us—big and small—how to ride the waves of our emotions! Luana’s stories and cast of characters take kids on a journey into magical worlds where their imaginations can run free as they learn how to identify their emotions, notice how their emotions feel in their body, and appreciate the wonderful gifts our feelings give us. Kids will learn how to harness their sensitivity and intuition, and listen to and nurture their relationship with themselves.

Attending a Hay Babies concert is a captivating experience where rock meets the folk soul of Acadia.

This show is festive, country rock and heartfelt. With their guitars, iconic costumes and vocal harmonies, the Hay Babies take the audience on a musical journey to discover the rich soundscapes of the regions they love.

Les Hay Babies

After a tour of major European venues, Grand Corps Malade is preparing an intimate original show for Quebec—and the NAC, of course. Accompanied by three musicians, he’ll perform a selection of tracks from his latest album, Reflets, as well as several of his classics. 

Grand Corps Malade

Cadence Weapon is Edmonton-born, Hamilton-based rapper, producer, writer and poet Rollie Pemberton. His 2021 album Parallel World won Canada’s Polaris Music Prize.

The son of a pioneering hip-hop radio DJ, Pemberton grew up around a diverse library of music. Splitting his time between Edmonton’s experimental electronic and underground rap scenes as a teenager, Pemberton eventually developed a hybrid of both styles. Cadence Weapon has released six albums, five of which have been nominated for the Polaris Music Prize, with Breaking Kayfabe (2006) and Hope In Dirt City (2012) and Parallel World (2021) being shortlist nominees.

Cadence Weapon

Pianist Tadd Dameron was one of the most influential and innovative composers in jazz during the swing and bebop eras. Although he wrote music for many other bands including those led by Count Basie, Artie Shaw, and Dizzy Gillespie, it is the magical music that Dameron wrote for his own orchestra, which featured unique instrumentation including French horn, that you’ll hear in this programme.

Making music became a matter of life and death for Soviet composers when Joseph Stalin's Great Terror campaign began a lethal crackdown on artistic dissent. Despite being denounced by the authorities and fearing for his life, Dmitri Shostakovich penned his Fifth Symphony — a work of artistic heroism in which the composer reacts to the violence, oppression, and cruelty of his time.

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra & Stewart Goodyear

Experience the miraculous chemistry that happens when two great musical minds fuse into one, as guest pianist Angela Hewitt interprets Mozart on Southam Hall’s stage. 
Montreal-based composer Keiko Devaux loves playing with electroacoustic sounds then translating them into emotional and genre-blurring music, resulting in beautiful and otherworldly effects. 

Mozart, Hewitt & Beethoven's Fifth

Without a safety net, the brash actress turns toward us: Is there a volunteer in the audience? Who will step out of their reassuringly anonymous seat to help reconstruct the true story of the courageous survivor of a stroke? An hour and a quarter of pure theatrical vertigo, both in form and narrative.  

With fearsome accuracy, the breathtaking Anne-Marie Olivier steps into the shoes of Maurice Dancause, an economist and civil servant who, at thirty-three years old, suffered a stroke and spent nine days in a coma, waking up a total stranger to himself. Everything he had taken for granted, from speaking to eating and holding a spoon, had to be relearned. The set design accurately recreates the interviews that Anne-Marie held with this miraculously self-cured man. And every night, the show transforms and takes on new life with a conversation partner chosen at random from the crowd. 

 Maurice

Maggie has spent a lifetime building a wall between herself and her memories—as well as between herself and her inquisitive, journalist daughter. 

Now, with a pot of steaming hot tea as the only thing between them, Maggie and Gwynn work to dismantle that wall, uncovering Maggie’s story in a journey of laughter, revelation, understanding, and the bond of a mother and daughter. 

The Secret to Good Tea

If you're yearning for a taste of refreshing country rock that seamlessly blends soulful melodies with heartfelt lyrics, look no further than Brothers Wilde. In the realm of music, Nolan and Ethan Wilde stand as the dynamic duo, embodying the essence of dreamers who not only dream hard but work even harder to bring their vision to life. Hailing from Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, the brothers were raised with values that shape their character — humility, hard work, and a commitment to spreading positive vibrations wherever their music takes them. 

Brothers Wilde

Simon Leblanc is more eager than ever to hit the road in search of landscapes and laughing faces.

Simon is back on tour with his fourth show, Présent. He can't wait to see you!

Simon Leblanc

After is acclaimed NAC debut in 2023, Nobu returns for an evening of romantic music that warms the heart and calms the mind.
Blind since birth, the Japanese pianist learns every piece of music he performs by ear or by using a Braille score.

Nobu

The North Sound, formed in 2014 by lead singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Forrest Eaglespeaker and his partner Nevada Freistadt, who composes and provides vocal harmonies, is coming to the NAC with songs from their upcoming new album! Be one of the first to hear it live! 

Keeping true to the traditions of Forrest’s heritage, The North Sound was created to share stories of Forrest's Blackfoot identity and traditions from Treaty 7 Territory. With a no-holds-barred approach to songwriting, Forrest’s lyrics span haunting metaphors from everyday experiences to personal realities.  

The North Sound

Director Steven Spielberg's heartwarming masterpiece is one of the brightest stars in motion picture history. Filled with unparalleled magic and imagination, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial follows the moving story of a lost little alien who befriends a10-year-old boy named Elliott. Experience all the mystery and fun of their unforgettable adventure in the beloved movie that captivated audiences around the world, complete with John Williams’ Academy Award®-winning score performed live by the National Arts Centre Orchestra in sync to the film projected on a huge HD screen! 

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Movie in Concert

“Dancers transform into flocks of birds in this dizzying ballet on ice that will take your breath away! ”

Le Patin Libre

Aréna Stade-Pierre-Lafontaine

Safia Nolin’s powerful political voice makes her a standout figure in today’s arts scene, with a career that explores identity, difference and life in the margins. As a racialized woman and a lesbian who takes an out-of-the-box approach to her art form, she flies in the face of societal norms and expectations. Her aesthetic, a celebration of imperfection and authenticity, can be just as harsh as it is poetry-laden.

Safia Nolin

Céleste released her debut album, Céleste, in 2015. Since then, she has continued her upward trajectory with a series of shows on her cross-Canada tour. Other milestones for the singer-songwriter include winning “Best Virtual Show of the Year” at the 2021 Capital Music Awards, opening for Francis Cabrel on his 2016 Quebec tour, a nomination at the ADISQ Gala for Adult-Contemporary Album of the Year (for Céleste), and multiple nominations at the Trille Or Gala, the Northern Ontario Music and Film Awards (NOMFA), and the Capital Music Awards. 


Céleste Lévis

On this very comfortable couch, perfectly moulded to our behinds, are four seats. But… there are five of us! What are we going to do? Well, hold a theatrical battle, of course. One that’s as hilarious as it is acrobatic, and that’s concealing under the couch cushions the thorny issue of how to live together in a society. Because once the extra person is kicked out, will we really be more comfortable? 

Batailles

Ballaké Sissoko (kora) and Vincent Segal (cello) on the one hand, Vincent Peirani (accordion) and Émile Parisien (saxophone) on the other. When these magicians are involved, 2+2 no longer equals 4, but 1. Together, these well-tempered individuals create a unity of spirit and a fluidity of sound that’s completely devoid of ego, all in the interest of the common musical good. Neither jazz nor traditional, neither classical nor avant-garde, but a little of each at once, this quartet marks out an independent poetic space where the ear is the lead instrument. Where virtuosity is expressed first and foremost in the art of working together. Where the simple yet lofty desire to listen to others results in the birth of a unique four-part song. 

Les Égarés

“Trident Moon is perhaps one of the most necessary plays of the present time; it must be watched as a reminder of the past, an indication of the present and a warning about the future.”

Trident Moon

“Enthralling, intense, terrifying and disturbing yet compellingly watchable…”

Jekyll & Hyde

Uvattini (which means “home” in Inuktitut) blends music, narration, video and performance to imagine a space where past and present merge, evoking bittersweet memories and raw emotions. Through her performance, directed by Émilie Monnet, Elisapie guides the audience through her own territory, delivering a musical and sensory experience where rock and pop classics translated into Inuktitut provide a platform for the intimate projection of personal history and subjective and collective pain. Documentary and poetic, Uvattini invites listeners to see and feel what the North and the Inuit who live there are all about. At times, the performance resembles a sacred ritual conveyed through striking musical arrangements, spellbinding lighting effects, and filmed images that transform our perspectives and points of view on the world.

National Arts Centre

Jan 9, 2025

Resident Chef Culinary Event

10 - 11 Jan, 2025

Final Symphony: Music from FINAL FANTASY

15 - 16 Jan, 2025

Shelley, Strauss & Goosby's Debut

15 - 17 Jan, 2025

Qaumma

Jan 16, 2025

Violin Masterclass with Randall Goosby

Jan 7, 2025

SoulRhythms

Jan 7, 2025

Toddler Tuesdays

National Arts Centre