Saskatoon Weekend Cultural Guide: Five Must-See Events February 6-8
As Saskatchewan Indigenous Storytelling Month continues throughout February with both in-person and virtual events across the province, Saskatoon residents have additional cultural opportunities to explore this weekend. The city comes alive with diverse performances ranging from traditional dance to contemporary theatre, offering something for every artistic taste.
1. Ukrainian Dance Fusion: Traditional Roots Meet Modern Movement
Volya presents Korinnya, meaning "roots" in Ukrainian, a captivating dance performance that beautifully blends traditional Ukrainian dance with the energy and innovation of modern movement. This artistic presentation takes audiences on a seasonal journey through creative choreography, musical accompaniment, and thoughtful stage design.
The evening features two new works alongside vocal performances from the Lastiwka Ukrainian Choir, creating a multi-dimensional artistic experience. The show takes place Saturday at TCU Place beginning at 7:30 p.m., offering a perfect cultural outing for those interested in both heritage preservation and contemporary artistic expression.
2. Jazz Fundraiser & Tropical Concert Double Feature
Music enthusiasts have two distinct options for Saturday evening entertainment. First, The Masquerade! big band dance fundraiser combines classic swing rhythms with contemporary jazz favorites in an all-ages event supporting the University of Saskatchewan Jazz Ensemble.
This annual celebration features performances by multiple ensembles including the U of S Jazz Ensemble, Stone Frigate Big Band, Saskatoon Youth Jazz Orchestra, and Footnotes Big Band. The event begins at 8 p.m. at the Manhattan Ballroom, with proceeds directly supporting student musicians.
Alternatively, the Saskatoon Concert Band presents Dreamin' of the Tropics, a lively musical celebration of Latin American and Caribbean traditions designed to bring warmth to winter evenings. This vibrant concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Broadway Theatre, offering audiences an auditory escape from the season's chill.
3. Family-Friendly Theatre & Bilingual Drama
For families with young children, Wide Open Children's Theatre presents The Helpful Prince — Gimme Grimm!, a creative fairy tale mashup perfect for ages two to eight. This interactive production follows a helpful prince armed with wit, heart, and scissors as he encounters familiar storybook characters including Hansel and Gretel, Rapunzel, and Little Red Riding Hood.
The play emphasizes clever heroes and the power of kindness while encouraging audience participation. Performances run Saturday through February 16 at The Refinery, providing multiple opportunities for family cultural engagement.
For those seeking more mature theatrical fare, La Troupe du Jour presents Cantate pour légumes, a lyrical Fransaskois production by writer Madeleine Blais-Dahlem. This music-filled play follows four "vegetables" in a seniors home who embark on a pilgrimage to Compostelle, exploring themes of aging, mortality, nostalgia, and self-determination.
Performed in French with English surtitles, the production runs through February 15 at Studio 914, with special artist talkbacks scheduled for Sunday and February 14.
4. World Premiere Drama Tackling Contemporary Issues
25th Street Theatre presents the world premiere of The Watch List by Rachel Aberle, a thought-provoking play that examines what happens when idealism collides with reality. This production tackles complex social issues including generational divides, racial dynamics, relationship complexities, and consent conversations.
The narrative follows Michelle and Todd as they host their son and his girlfriend for a birthday celebration, with Todd's outspoken mother adding additional tension to the gathering. As revelations unfold throughout the evening, family bonds face potential rupture in this emotionally resonant drama.
Recommended for audiences aged 14 and older, the play runs through February 14 at Persephone Theatre's BackStage Stage, offering Saskatoon residents an opportunity to experience cutting-edge Canadian theatre.
Whether you're interested in traditional cultural expressions or contemporary theatrical explorations, Saskatoon's weekend offerings provide diverse opportunities for artistic engagement and community connection during the February winter season.
