Spark Gala — Canadian National Ballet —  FirstOntario PAC - downtown St. Catharines
 
FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre presents
2026 SPARK Gala
featuring the National Ballet of Canada

The Future at 75 & The Balcony Pas de Deux from Romeo and Juliet

SAT OCT 24 at 8pm
PARTRIDGE HALL


5PM TORCHBEARER RECEPTION + VIP DINNER
7PM FLAME COCKTAIL RECEPTION
8PM PERFORMANCE

 
Our annual SPARK Gala raises funds to fuel the future of artistic brilliance in Niagara. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with music, performance, community spirit, and connection! 

Performance by The National Ballet of Canada  

We are proud to announce that for the very first time in St. Catharines, The National Ballet of Canada will perform their internationally acclaimed work here, in Partridge Hall. 

This exclusive programme will celebrate the National Ballet’s 75th anniversary season with the Balcony Pas de Deux from the company’s upcoming production of John Cranko's Romeo and Juliet and The Future at 75, a performance by the company’s RBC Apprentices.
 
One of the top international ballet companies, The National Ballet of Canada was founded in 1951 by Celia Franca. Today, the company is among the world’s finest, with 70 dancers and its own orchestra. Led by Artistic Director Hope Muir since 2022, the National Ballet is renowned for its diverse repertoire including traditional full-length classics, contemporary ballet and exciting world premieres. The company performs in Toronto at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts from November to June and tours internationally.

Choose Your Experience*

Ticket includes:

  • Torchbearer ticket holders will enjoy a pre-performance cocktail reception in Robertson Theatre showcasing our Niagara wine and craft beer partners.
  • Following the cocktail hour, guests will sit down to a delicious pre-show dinner.
  • Your ticket will also enable exclusive access to a live SPARK fundraising auction boasting an exciting collection of items to bid on from a diverse range of Niagara businesses.

Ticket includes:

  • Flame ticket holders will enjoy a pre-concert cocktail reception in Algoma Lobby showcasing incredible Niagara wines from local winery partners and passed hors d’oeuvres.
  • You will also have access to the SPARK online fundraising auction boasting an exciting collection of items to bid on from a diverse range of Niagara businesses.

Ticket includes:

  • Ember ticket holders have access to the National Ballet of Canada performance in Partridge Hall.

*Ticket prices are all-inclusive. 

Thanks to our SPARK Title Sponsor FirstOntario Credit Union



Why SPARK Matters 

The SPARK gala is more than a celebration. Proceeds from the gala directly support exceptional and diverse cultural experiences that are accessible for all. 

For over a decade, the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre has served as a catalyst for building community in the region and as Niagara's preeminent home for inspiring performances and creative discovery.