Share the joy of the symphony with budding young minds
GUELPH, ON October 29, 2026 — With another year comes another round of Park Eatery Kinderconcerts, which provide a fun and enriching experience for the whole family. This popular three-part series brings classical music to life for children aged 5 years and under. The first in the series is the beloved story of The Nutcracker, taking place in River Run Centre’s intimate Studio Theatre on Saturday, November 21, at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 11:30 a.m.
This 30-minute performance is designed for young, curious minds to watch and listen as Guelph Symphony Orchestra members play excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s classic score. The musicians love sharing their passion, and it shows.
Kinderconcerts bring classical music directly in front of children for a hands-on, immersive experience. Children sit close to the performers, and audience participation is highly encouraged. Afterward, they meet the musicians and explore the instruments up close.
Award-winning artist and cultural leader, Kween, returns to narrate this season’s Kinderconcerts, adding an extra element of enchantment through her animated storytelling. Kween is a celebrated figure in the community as a 2023 Guelph Local Hero, a University of Guelph alumna, a past Guelph Dance Artist in Residence, and former Executive Director of the Guelph Black Heritage Society.
The Nutcracker is based on Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, which was inspired by a fantastical tale from 1816. It tells the story of a young girl, Clara, who falls asleep on Christmas Eve while cuddling her new nutcracker doll. Her dreams whisk her and her Nutcracker Prince away on a magical adventure to a land of sweets, sugar plum fairies, and a fierce battle with the Mouse King.
This year’s Kinderconcerts are supported by returning Series Sponsor Park Eatery and Season Sponsor Richardson Wealth. The Nutcracker will be followed by The Barber of Seville on February 6 and The Lizard and the Ant on April 3.
Tickets to Kinderconcerts: The Nutcracker are $15 for adults, $13 for those over 60 or under 30 years old, and $11 for children under 14, including infants. This performance historically sells out, so interested parents are encouraged to book tickets soon. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the Box Office at 519-763-3000, visit 35 Woolwich Street in Guelph, or purchase tickets online.
FOR INFORMATION
Kasia Rusiniak | Program Manager, Development and Marketing
River Run Centre
City of Guelph
519-837-5662 ext. 2589
[email protected]