A Very Merry Motown Christmas
Thurs, November 28 // 8pm
Colourful, engaging and full of fun. A Very Merry Motown Christmas takes you to a time when the best holiday play list was filled with the unmistakable soul, rhythm, and groove of classic motor city cool. Hits from The Temptations, Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye and others, alongside Christmas and Motown classics sung by the greatest acts of the legendary label come alive.
Featuring outstanding soloists, incredible backup singers, and a true-to-Motown band, this show transports you to the pinnacle of music history. Christmas is a time for celebration, and what could be more festive than a holiday tribute to the best of Motown's legendary music powerhouse? It’s an uplifting atmosphere guaranteed to get everyone in the holiday spirit.
Michael Kaeshammer: The Spirit of Christmas
Sat, November 30 // 8pm
Michael Kaeshammer isn’t so much a piano player as a piano whisperer, a master musician and songwriter able to coax dazzling, kaleidoscopic sounds from his instrument in a way few can rival. That gift powers Kaeshammer’s 2024 holiday tour The Spirit of Christmas, a performance featuring all your Christmas favourites turned up a notch with a toe-tapping spin on the classics.
Sing along as Kaeshammer delights his audience and takes them on a musical journey that will be sure to put anyone in “The Spirit of Christmas".
Photo Credit: Yaya Stempler
I really love playing shows and being on-stage. Music is my favourite thing to do. And this holiday tour will be the highlight of the year for me.
ABOUT MICHAEL KAESHAMMER
Michael Kaeshammer has dedicated his life to mastering music, blending classical, jazz, blues, and pop into his signature style. Born in Germany, he began performing as a teenager before moving to Canada in the mid-'90s. With numerous albums and international performances, Kaeshammer has grown from a prodigy into a versatile artist. He collaborates with renowned musicians, performs at global events, and embraces opportunities that enhance his skills. Despite his achievements, including JUNO Awards and PBS specials, he remains focused on growth, eagerly anticipating future shows and album releases.
Classic Albums Live brings Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon to life with unparalleled precision and passion. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, the band captures every intricate sound, from the iconic alarm clocks to the soulful vocals of Great Gig in the Sky.
This album, a masterpiece of rock history, was Classic Albums Live’s flagship show in 2003 and remains a defining moment for the group. Founder Craig Martin said, “Classic Albums Live knows how to perform this album. It’s complex and full of soul. Getting the alarm clocks together was a feat, all the little voices. Then you had to find someone that could sing Great Gig in the Sky. We did, and it’s joyous.”
Experience the album that changed everything, performed in a way that no one else in the world does, note for note, cut for cut.
BAND LINEUP:
Ryan Granville-Martin Toys, Vocals, Special Effects
Rob Phillips Vocals, Guitar
Des Leahy Guitar
Mark Stewartson Bass, Vocals
Troy Feener Drums
Lindsay Clark Keys, Background Vocals
Emily Steinwall Sax, Background Vocals
Nicole Robinson Background Vocals
Cole’s voice: smoky, though not quite sultry; as sly as it is sexy; and brimming with adventure bordering on recklessness.
The Wall Street Journal
Holly Cole A Swinging Christmas
Fri, December 6 // 8pm
Get in the holiday spirit with Canada’s jazz icon, Holly Cole, as she returns with A Swinging Christmas! Holly and her impeccable band bring fresh energy to beloved holiday classics, fan favorites, and an eclectic mix of seasonal gems. Known for her bold, witty, and soulful style, Holly delivers smart, sexy, and charming performances.
Her legendary Christmas concert is sure to be a festive treat. Don’t miss the chance to experience a holiday show like no other, filled with charm, sophistication, and the festive magic of Holly Cole’s voice.
ABOUT HOLLY COLE
Born and raised in The Maritimes, Holly Cole grew up in a musical family. She has earned acclaim as an interpretive singer and arranger, blending jazz and pop with originality, sophistication, and sensuality. Her intense and authentic approach, free of retro pretensions, has been a hallmark of her illustrious career. Known for her captivating live performances, she has built a reputation as a leading contemporary song stylist. With Gold and Platinum record sales and numerous international tours, including headlining with symphonies, Cole has gained many fans and received widespread praise and accolades.
Thurs, December 12 // 8pm
The Tallis Scholars have established themselves as the leading exponents and the reference of Renaissance sacred music throughout the world. Founding Director Peter Phillips has worked with the ensemble to create, through good tuning and blend, the purity and clarity of sound which he feels best serves the Renaissance repertoire, allowing every detail of the musical lines to be heard. This season will mark the group’s impressive 50th anniversary – making this is a concert not to be missed!
THE
DIRECTOR & ENSEMBLE
Peter Philips Director
Amy Haworth Soprano
Rachel Haworth Soprano
Caroline Trevor Alto
Steven Harrold Tenor
Tim Scott Whiteley Bass
Daisy Walford Soprano
Victoria Meteyard Soprano
Elisabeth Paul Alto
Simon Wall Tenor
Rob Macdonald Bass
Pavlo & John McDermott A Family Christmas
Sat, December 14 // 4pm & 8pm
Embark on a festive journey this Christmas with the enchanting collaboration of John McDermott and Pavlo, as they seamlessly transport you from the rich traditions of the Celts to the sun-kissed landscapes of the Mediterranean. The irresistible blend of John McDermott’s exquisite tenor and Pavlo’s masterful guitar artistry creates a musical fusion that is simply too enticing to resist. Celebrate their shared passions for Irish, Scottish, Greek, Flamenco, Latin and Balkan influences, and prepare to witness an evening of unexpected and delightful holiday collaboration including: Oh Holy Night, Christmas in The Trenches, The Huron Carol and more!
ABOUT PAVLO
Pavlo's Mediterranean music speaks volumes through its instrumental richness. Over his 20-year career, the internationally renowned artist has released 15 albums and produced four PBS TV concert specials. Born in Toronto to Greek parents, Pavlo blends Greek, flamenco, Latin, and Balkan influences into what he calls "Mediterranean music." His global performances include playing for royalty like Prince Charles and collaborating with stars such as José Feliciano and Olivia Newton-John. Pavlo embodies his father's mantra: “Have the courage to do what you love, and the drive to do it well.
ABOUT JOHN MCDERMOTT
John McDermott's journey to a full-time music career crystallized on October 5, 1993, at the Rebecca Cohn Theatre in Halifax, where he debuted with his band to an enthusiastic audience. Following the release of an album of Irish and Scottish ballads as a tribute to his parents' anniversary, EMI Canada launched 2,000 copies in 1992, resulting in over 50,000 sales. Since then, he has recorded more than 25 albums, toured internationally, and performed at prestigious events, including the Democratic National Convention.
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy A Celtic Family Christmas
Wed, December 18 // 8pm
Welcome to A Celtic Family Christmas with Natalie MacMaster, Donnell Leahy, and their seven children— Mary Frances, Michael, Clare, Julia, Alec, Sadie, and Maria! Join this talented family and their stellar band as they warmly invite you to experience their music, way of life, and cherished Christmas traditions. Natalie and Donnell believe their farm plays a vital role in their children’s upbringing, with Donnell noting that 'running the farm is a great counterpoint to life on the road.'
The show will feature a mix of traditional and original music, performed by the family and their incredible band, along with special numbers, personal stories, and candid moments from the MacMaster-Leahy household. Life is never dull, especially at Christmas!
Photo Credit: Yaya Stempler
The Nutcracker: A Canadian Tradition
Mon, December 30 // 2pm & 7pm Tue, December 31 // 11am & 3pm
Holiday magic is made year after year by Ballet Jörgen’s traditional treasure The Nutcracker: A Canadian Tradition Created by acclaimed choreographer and Artistic Director Bengt Jörgen to Tchaikovsky’s well-loved score, this delightful classic is a favourite that brings magic to the holidays.
This beloved classic, created in collaboration with the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, features over 100 richly colored costumes and 30-foot backdrops inspired by Canadian landscapes like Carmichael’s Church and Houses at Bisset (1931), and Thomson’s Snow in the Woods (1916). Audiences follow Klara on a dream journey through snowy scenes with Mounties, lumberjacks, and woodland creatures, all evoking Canada’s winter beauty. The ballet’s second act showcases delightful dances, including charming animal divertissements, highlighting Klara’s longing for summer. The stunning pas-de-deux by Lord and Lady Birch concludes the magical adventure, bringing Klara safely home. This enchanting production has become a holiday favorite, offering a joyful celebration of the season that delights audiences year after year.
Photo Credit: Yaya Stempler
Ballet Jörgen combines respect for tradition with a canny eye for what will make its productions distinct.”
Michael
Crabb,
The Toronto Star
Tiny Seedlings is a community based initiative fully funded by United Soils Management.
Since its inception in 2012, we have had over 4000 families participate in our programs as members.
All of our events and activities are provided at no cost to our members.
We base everything we do on 3 fundamental values; family, education and physical activity. We are proudly York Region based and our goal is to give back to the community that we live, work and play in.
Once families sign up as members they receive access to any of our programs and each child receives their own membership card which can be used all year round. From our educational summer ice cream nights to bursaries we provide to local high school students issued by faculty, our relationship with various communities allows for us to continually advance our spectrum of programs as we are doing here at the FLATO Markham Theatre providing culture through music and entertainment for children.
Tiny Seedlings is driven by two mothers in the community who recognize that safety, fun and physical activity are at the top of every parent’s list for their kids.
No strings, no fees, just great family fun!
THANK YOU!
SHOOTING STARS $500-$999
Terry & Mary Bryon
Alwyn Enterprises
Bryan S Katz
Robin Bryan
Mr & Mrs Bill Crothers
Nilesh & Lucie Hathi
Barbara Holmes
Barb & Dave Reid
Eric & Susanne Tappenden of Chapel Ridge
SUPER STARS $250–$499
Carol & Gerald Knowles
Sandy & Jim Koteles
Jocelyn McPhail & Sandy Petersen
Brian, Debbie and Martin Mitgang
Sonja & David Murphy
SHINING STARS $150–$249
David and Jo-Anne Blinn
Mr & Mrs G.H. Punky Boyle
Denise and Andy Chong
Harrie and Elizabeth Cleveland
Jean Cuthbertson
Marla David
Leroy D'Cunha
Mayur Bhagani
Zoe Christidis & Endel Mell
Barbara Ann Crozier
Susanne and Bob Eastwood
Cathy Emmons
Carol Evans
Sharon and Frank Fazzari
Cheryl & John Flint
Jeremy Gibbens
Scott & Susan Gibson
Holo Devnani
Mary Haffey
Willam Harman
W. Inkpen
Ted & Lynda Langdon
Lenny Liscio
Marianne MacBride
STAR GAZER $75–$149
Roni Gordon
Mary Bell & William Graber
Robert & Angela Grattage
Susan & Winnifred Heim
Paul & Dawn Johnson
Brent Kerwood
Deborah Kimber
Evelyn Krakauer
Frank & Mary Leone
Ken and Glenda Metrick
Gordon & Elaine McInnis
Ted and Val Pike
Brian & Donna Reeve
Ann Schwemler
Jim and Joanne Stewart
Gloria Tellis
Harry Tonogai
Steven Misener
Dean Moratz & Janice Franklin
Mike Mandel
Thomas Plant & Diane Briffa
Larry and Trish Pollock
Soraya Shokrai
Karen Sibbald
George & Kerri Voumvakis
Nancy & Paul Wood
THEATRE TEAM
Acting General Manager
Scott Hill
Acting Business & Rental Manager
Maxwell Silva-Chappell
Production & Facility Manager
Andrew Rosenfarb
Client Services Coordinator
Claire Acott
Discovery Program Coordinator
Alan Kinsella
Senior Technical Supervisor
Chris MacBride
Senior Technician
Vince Rotondi
Theatre Technician
Peter Abbott
Business Coordinator
Helen Mah
Marketing & Box Office Coordinator
Danielle Grattage
Marketing Lead
Kayla van Zon
Marketing & Box Office Assistant
Maggie Ho
Administrative Clerk
Siobhain Fray
Box Office
Karen Zita
Maintenance Assistant
Gary Restoule
ADVISORY BOARD
Srinka Wallia, Chair
Sophia Sun, Vice Chair
Phoenix Financial
Michael Chen
YRDSB Trustee
Dawn Donaldson
University Health Network
Brad Fletcher
The Village Grocer
Anne Gilligan
Weins Auto Group
Regional Councillor Jim Jones
Ken MacDonald
Short Street Media
Brent Matthews
Retired, Acting Principal
Larry Matthews
Dr. Reddy’s
Sarah Micallef
CST Savings Inc
Ronald Minken
Minken Employment Lawyers
Richard Morales M.Eng., P.Eng
Music Producer, Agent and Composer
Susie Nunes
Unionville High School
Celeste Pelliccione
