Email to a friend Printer friendly Font: * * * * Tickets: Tickets $15 to $75 (includes following reception to meet performers). Call 380-2522 or 1-877-335-2522 - - - A gala evening featuring members of Victoria’s newest ballet company, songs by opera star Barbara Livingston, and a performance by the local Gilbert and Sullivan Society is whipped up like a yuletide confection for Dec. 28.

“It’s our big fundraising event of the year and will include a mixed bill of classical and modern work,” said Roberta Taylor, co-founder of the Canadian Pacific Ballet, which specializes in romantic works. “We’re thrilled that so many people are showing their support and donating their time. It’s a wonderful collaboration and celebration.” About 10 company dancers will perform the snow scene from The Nutcracker along with a soirГ©e piece set to the music of Rossini.

Fifteen chorus members from Gilbert & Sullivan will sing excerpts from HMS Pinafore while the dancers move in and around them. Scott Vannan, principal dancer with Canadian Pacific and choreographer of this show, will sing Take a Pair of Sparkling Eyes from The Gondoliers. “It’s all going to be very fun and frothy, up-tempo, high-energy stuff with everyone en pointe and in tutus,” he said, adding the company is working hard to become part of the community of performers in this city.

Funds raised will support operating expenses, wardrobe, daily rehearsals and classes for the classical ballet company, which was formed less than a year ago. Already it has mounted two full-length shows and two Island tours and offered a series of workshops.