The end of November turns out to be a great time for dance performances in Toronto, with the openings of a range of events, from b-boying to contemporary dance and by companies both seasoned and new. Although most of these shows get underway soon, it's not too late to grab a couple tickets. Here are four performances worth checking out.

Enter the Shadow: The Life of a B-Boy (Nov. 24-27, Enwave Theatre at the Harbourfront Centre, $15-28)
Toronto-based b-boy organization Break It Down brings hip-hop to the Harbourfront Centre, as part of the centre's Fresh Ground programme highlighting creative and innovative works. The performance has been choreographed by two members of the Supernaturalz Crew and co-written by Ins Choi, the winning playwright of this year's Toronto Fringe New Play Contest. It's not a dance style typically seen on stage, though its slowly-growing popularity has allowed Break It Down to give their first full-length theatrical production a go.

Ryerson Dances (Nov. 22-26, Ryerson Theatre, $18, students and seniors $14)
Students take the stage for the 40th anniversary of Ryerson Dances. Each year, BFA dance students highlight their talents in ballet, modern dance and jazz, which also showcases the work of local and national choreographers. This year, they take on four pieces from Arsenio Andrade Calderon, Valerie Calam, Vicki St Denys and Allen Kaeja. It's a chance to see performances from one of the most-recognized dance undergrad programs in the country.

Shumka at 50 (Nov. 25-26, Sony Centre for the Performing Arts, $30-95)
Edmonton-based non-profit dance company Shumka continues the celebration of their 50th year with two nights in Toronto. The company has just wrapped up their China tour and kicks off their Canadian dates here in Toronto. Combining traditional Ukrainian and contemporary Canadian influences, it's a high-energy dance style that offers a peek into our diverse heritage.

Romeo and Juliet (Nov. 16-27, Four Seasons Centre, $25-177)
In recognition of The National Ballet of Canada's 60th anniversary, internationally-acclaimed choreographer Alexei Ratmansky presents the world premiere of his take on the classic Shakespearean tragedy. The show has been a part of the National Ballet since 1964 (originally choreographed by John Cranko), but this will be the first year the performance gets new choreography. It promises to be fresh and imaginative, though aslo true to the performance's dramatic roots. The dance is also brought to life by Lion King set and costume designer Richard Hudson.

Writing by Michelle Medford. Photo by Sam Javanrouh