The Big Apple is about to experience a mini-invasion of Canadian artists come the fall and winter of 1998.

Not only is Stratford going south with two productions, (see story, Stratford Fest... in U.S. News), The National Ballet of Canada is scheduled to perform a program of short ballets, including artistic director James Kudelka's The Four Seasons.

Hailed as a masterpiece by the Canadian press when it premiered at the Hummingbird Centre this past February, The Four Seasons is set to Vivaldi's famous score.

Upon making the announcement, Kudelka underlined the importance of the occasion, saying that the National hasn't been to New York in a decade and that he feels it is time to present that city with a unique repertoire from Canada's premiere ballet company.

But while New York may not have seen the National, it has been able to experience Kudelka's work every year over the past 10, through his association with many of North America's most prestigious companies. Making it all happen is Walter Carsen, a longtime angel to the National. His $100,000 donation will provide the seed money while the ballet raises the other $900,000 it will require for the trip. They plan to meet their financial goal through box office revenues, government support and special fundraising initiatives.

For tickets to National Ballet productions call: 416-345-959

--By Mira Friedlander
Canadian Correspondent