The National Ballet of Canada’s 2026 season offers audiences a compelling journey through contemporary creativity and large-scale theatrical imagination, with two major productions presented at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. From May 29 to June 4, 2026, a bold double bill introduces powerful new voices and reimagined narratives, followed by the return of MADDADDAM, running June 13 to June 21, 2026, an ambitious work inspired by Margaret Atwood’s acclaimed trilogy.

New Work by Jera Wolfe & Emma Bovary

This striking double bill celebrates originality, emotional depth, and modern storytelling through dance. At its centre is a highly anticipated world premiere by Jera Wolfe, a Métis Canadian choreographer whose previous work Soul made a strong impression in 2020. Wolfe now returns with a major new creation developed for The National Ballet of Canada, marking a significant milestone in his artistic journey. His choreography is known for its clarity, expressive movement, and ability to communicate complex inner landscapes, offering audiences a fresh and resonant contemporary voice.

Sharing the programme is Helen Pickett’s Emma Bovary, a riveting work first introduced in 2023 and now expanded with additional scenes. Inspired by Gustave Flaubert’s iconic literary heroine, Pickett’s ballet explores desire, restraint, and emotional longing through intense physicality and cinematic pacing. The expanded version deepens the psychological portrait of its central character, drawing audiences further into her inner conflicts and societal constraints.

Together, these two works form a powerful conversation between creators, blending distinct perspectives and choreographic languages. The programme highlights the National Ballet’s commitment to fostering new Canadian voices while also nurturing bold reinterpretations of narrative-driven ballet.

Performance dates and times include:

• May 29, 2026 at 7:30 pm
• May 30, 2026 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm
• May 31, 2026 at 2:00 pm
• June 3, 2026 at 7:30 pm
• June 4, 2026 at 7:30 pm

MADDADDAM

Following the intimacy and intensity of the double bill, audiences are invited into the vast and unsettling world of MADDADDAM. Choreographed by Wayne McGregor, this ambitious production brings Margaret Atwood’s post-apocalyptic trilogy to the stage, exploring themes of unchecked technological ambition, environmental collapse, colonialism, and moral responsibility.

Originally co-produced with The Royal Ballet in 2022, MADDADDAM is driven by McGregor’s distinctive choreographic style, which combines razor-sharp physicality with futuristic movement language. The production is underscored by a powerful score from Max Richter, one of today’s most influential composers, whose music intensifies the work’s emotional and philosophical impact.

Atwood’s unmistakable voice and activism are woven throughout the production, grounding its speculative future in urgent present-day concerns. The result is a visually arresting and intellectually challenging ballet that asks audiences to reflect on humanity’s choices, vulnerabilities, and capacity for reinvention.

Performance dates and times include:

• June 13, 2026 at 7:30 pm
• June 14, 2026 at 2:00 pm
• June 17, 2026 at 7:30 pm
• June 18, 2026 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm
• June 19, 2026 at 7:30 pm
• June 20, 2026 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm
• June 21, 2026 at 2:00 pm

Venue and Information

All performances take place at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, 145 Queen Street West, Toronto. For tickets and full programme details, visit national.ballet.ca.

Together, these productions showcase the breadth of contemporary ballet — from intimate new perspectives to sweeping, future-facing narratives — affirming The National Ballet of Canada’s role as a leader in innovative dance storytelling.