There are few works ever created that capture the essence and spirit of Christmas more than The Nutcracker.

The excitement is building for Kaleidoscope Theatre’s opening this Friday of the Nutcracker All Jazzed up. The Perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.

    Tchaikovsky’s score, the magic of Christmas Eve, and adventure all combine to hoist the ballet to the status of timeless classic.
    Kaleidoscope Theatre is bringing the extravaganza to its very own stage, although it is a little “Jazzed Up.”
    Carol Todor is the artistic director of the production, and she is being assisted by choreographers Tricia Hatch and Nicole Hutchings to bring the production to life. This is the third time Todor has put The Nutcracker on stage, but this is no doubt the biggest.
    The Nutcracker All Jazzed Up has an incredible cast of 52, and of these, only seven are adults. 
    There are four boys in the show and two sets of twins. There are nine sets of two sisters and one set of three sisters, a brother and sister team and two mother and daughter combinations.
    There are also 200 costumes for the show, more than any other Kaleidoscope production.
    “While it follows the classic story of the great party, the mysterious uncle, the epic battle with the Mouse King and then a fantastical night for a young girl filled with a prince, sugar plum fairies, the dancing takes a departure from the classic”.    
    The “All Jazzed up” part of the title also means get ready for  fun. This allows the production to be more than just the traditional ballet. This brings in more contemporary music, tap dancers and more variety. It also makes it more accessible for wider audiences.
    While Christmas is a busy time of shopping, travelling and visiting, the Nutcracker reminds viewers of the magic, joy and innocence of the season.
 The Nutcracker All Jazzed Up runs November 29, 30, and December 5, 6 at 7 p.m. and December 1 at 2 p.m.  
    For tickets call 403-823-PLAY (7529).

    Christmas is the season of giving and residents are being asked to help the Drumheller Salvation Army give a bright holiday to those in need.
    Last week, the Salvation Army kicked-off its annual kettle campaign and is asking residents and businesses to donate. Kettles have been set up at Freson Bros. IGA, Drumheller Co-op, Extra Foods, and WalMart.
    “It’s one of our biggest fundraisers each year. It keeps our food bank operating as well as our client assistance programs,” said Lt. Laurie Sauder, with the Drumheller Salvation Army. “It helps us continue to support people in our community who are in need.”
    Last year, the kettles alone raised roughly $40,000.   In total, $99,964 was raised from the kettles and donations, 18 skids of food collected from the annual food drive, just over $10,000 worth of toys handed out to children in need in Drumheller, and 95 hampers given to local families.
    They are hoping for a similar showing of support.
    “Our total goal is about $100,000 this year,” said Sauder.

Lt. Laurie Sauder, right, and Loretta Simmonds at the Freson Bros. IGA kettle. Residents are being encouraged to donate this Christmas to help those in need. Kettles can also be found at the Drumheller Co-op, Extra Foods, and WalMart.

    Each year, the Christmas campaign raises tens of thousands of dollars. The money is used to buy food and gifts to help those less fortunate.
    The Salvation Army operates the food bank, which fills dozens of hampers each year. Also they collect toys to fulfill Christmas wishes.
    “Sometimes it’s not just a food hamper. We support people in other areas as well,” said Sauder. “We get a lot of individuals who find themselves in a bind. For example, someone might have bills backed up to where their gas is going to get turned off and it’s -20 degrees outside.”
    To help make a difference this Christmas, the Salvation Army is asking for donations of money, food, and toys. Also, they are asking for help at the kettles. Those interested in volunteering can do so by calling the Salvation Army at 403-823-2215.