2010
CHRISTMAS GUIDE
Join the DVBA and kick-off the holiday season in Centennial Square with the 3rd Annual Centennial Square Christmas Tree Light-Up November 26, 5pm – 7pm
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WIN 1 OF 4 HOLIDAY PRIZE PACKS! Share and Win with the DVBA! Share your favourite recipes, songs, downtown shopping spots and downtown traditions for a chance to win 1 of 4 holiday prize packages. It’s easy, just share at www.downtownvictoria.ca and be entered to win today!
2 CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010
DAVID LOWES
IT’S A WONDERFUL MOVIE Zuzu’s petals! What’s the enduring appeal of It’s A Wonderful Life? By JOHN THRELFALL
I
t’s a holiday movie that was considered such a flop when version also plays well to admittedly aging audiences. “Those it was released that the studio never even bothered to of us in the baby-boomer generation grew up on radio; we copyright it. Nope, we’re not talking about the 1964 cult were the last real audience for radio and I’ve yet to run into a classic Santa Claus Conquers the Martians but the much-loved baby boomer who doesn’t remember that era affectionately.” 1946 justifiable classic It’s A Wonderful Life. After taking a Richmond also feels the storyline fits well into the season’s box-office drubbing at the hands of that same year’s Miracle cultural template. “It’s the American version of A Christmas on 34th Street, not even a great performance by Jimmy Stewart Carol,” he says. “It’s all about discovering those things that could keep Frank Capra’s Depression-era musings on life and really matter in life—and popular culture has led us to believe community from slipping into cinematic obscurity for nearly that Christmas and the holiday season is when we come back three decades. Just ask local director Brian Richmond, whose to those values, and examine what it means to be human.” Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre is bringing a live “radio” verThat’s an assessment that fits well with Cinecenta prosion of this fine bit of Capra-corn back to the McPherson grammer Michael Hoppe, where the annual screening of Playhouse for an extended run this holiday season. the original film has become a holiday tradition in its own “The only reason we think of It’s A Wonderful Life as this right for more than 16 years now. “There’s something about great classic is because when cable television was coming in gathering together and watching it that suits the movie back in the early ’70s, there was a New York TV station that itself. It takes you from the depths of despair and loneliness discovered the movie was out of copyright and they played to celebrating family and friends,” he says. “I think that’s it around the clock over the holiday season—and from there one of the reasons why it’s still so popular—it shows how it started to get established as this holiday classic,” explains interconnected we all are. That really comes through when Richmond. “When I first came across the radio version, Jimmy Stewart sees how life would have been without him, I originally wondered how we could be doing this. But and what a horrible place his town would have been.” Indeed, much like Scrooge, George Bailey—Jimmy because it was out of copyright, writers started to do their own adaptations of it, so there’s actually a number of differ- Stewart’s character—is also confronted with some of the issues commonly associated with both Christmas and the ent versions of it out there now.” Winter Solstice. “It has something in Blue Bridge originally presented Phillip common with both A Christmas Carol Grecian’s 2006 radio version as a oneand The Wizard of Oz,” says Hoppe. “It night-only fundraiser last year at the Mac, takes you to a really dark place and then but this year it’s back with an 18-person back into the light, back into the bosom cast and a four-day run. “We’re going to of family and friends, that whole ‘no place create the atmosphere of a 1940s radio like home’ thing. All Jimmy Stewart wantpresentation,” says Richmond. “We’ll have ed was to get the hell out of that town, a big Christmas tree on stage, period mics, and then by the end he realizes there’s no an on-air sign and we’re bringing in a foley better place to be.” sound guy from Toronto—John Gzowski, Hoppe also continues to be surprised Peter Gzowski’s son—and we’ll be in as at the perennial popularity of Cinecenta’s close to ’40s costumes as we can.” “Cheer up, George. It’ll all screening. “There are people who look Rather than a standard theatrical probe okay by the final reel.” forward to coming to it every year— duction, Richmond feels the “live radio”
Jacob Richmond and Amanda Lisman as George and Mary Bailey in this year’s version of Blue Bridge’s It’s A Wonderful Life
which always surprises me, because you can see it on TV or watch it whenever on DVD or BluRay. But last year, we had over 120 people come see it—and one year we couldn’t get it and we got calls from people complaining, because this was one of their Christmas traditions.” Much like A Christmas Carol, Richmond freely admits It’s A Wonderful Life can’t really even be considered a happy story until the final scenes. “What makes them both work, of course, is that we basically identify with the character’s dilemma in life: we start out with high ambitions for ourselves, then life starts to come into play and we make choices, then question those choices, and we have a tendency to overlook the positive results of our lives. For me, that’s where the emotional core of the story still resonates.” That, and Zuzu’s petals, of course. M Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre’s radio version of It’s A Wonderful Life runs at the McPherson Playhouse at 8pm December 15, 17, 18 & 19, plus 2pm matinees on December 18 & 19. Tickets range from $21.50 to $42.75. 250-3866121. Cinecenta’s screening of the film version happens at 7pm December 21 in UVic’s Student Union Building. Tickets are $5.60 to $7.75. 250-721-8365.
CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010 3
WORDS TO CELEBRATE WITH ’Tis the season for holiday literature By AMANDA FARRELL-LOW
W
hen the holidays roll around, it’s not uncommon for us to dust off a favourite seasonal film, carol or tradition (in my house, it’s always been cheese and crackers for dinner on Christmas Eve). But what about literature? We asked some fine folks from Victoria’s lit landscape to share their favourite pieces of holiday poetry or prose. Break out the library card or hit up the local bookstore to find these fine fireside reading recommendations—whether that’s an authentic fireplace or the televised burning log . . . also a tradition in my house. Charles Tidler, playwright: “You can’t beat Louis Armstrong’s cover of The Night Before Christmas for pure holiday joy. Satchmo, as always, is note-perfect, and so present that even the English atheist Richard Dawkins must believe in Santa Claus. Christmas cuddling goes exceptionally well with jazz singer Charles Brown’s ‘Merry Christmas, Baby.’ And for spiritual focus, there’s the tender yearning of the heavenly host in the Gospel of Luke, chapter two: ‘on earth peace, good will toward men.’” M.A.C. Farrant, author: “I’m very fond of Howard Engel’s fresh and funny, A Child’s Christmas in Scarborough, a takeoff on Dylan Thomas’ A Child’s Christmas in Wales. Word for word, rhythm for rhythm, Engel’s version is a brilliant skewering of the cloying, over-sentimental and often disappointing Christmases we have sold our souls for. Set in a Scarborough housing project, the family in Engel’s version includes kids running wild, Mother in the sherry, Father in the egg nog, Uncle Frank—a convict—falling through the picture window, and Aunt Hetty with her brandy-soaked breath confounding her latest lover, Ernie. Don’t you miss them? Engel’s undermining of the Christmas vision is so
good it reminds me of that other rough hymn to stolen dreams—the Pogues singing ‘Fairytale in New York,’ also called ‘Christmas in the Drunktank.’” Linda Rogers, poet laureate: “Every Christmas is the same: we share what we have and we play music. My gift to myself is a few moments to read A Child’s Christmas in Wales and a quiet time to read the exquisitely evocative prose poem out loud to children. It just ain’t the holidays without a little Terry Pratchett, says Missie Peters “I have always loved the sprungrhythmed waterfall poetry of Dylan Thomas. I felt honoured that he credited some of my distant ancestors, Gerard Manly Hopkins talgia Capote wraps the story in somehow evokes a like and Bliss Carman, for inspiration. It wasn’t until I became nostalgia in me for my own childhood—a nostalgia that friends with Welsh designers Charles and Patricia Lester perhaps idealizes only the best of and none of the worst of that the full meaning of ‘it’s a small world’ the Christmas I grew up with.” came home to me. The Lester’s live on Fern Missie Peters, spoken word artist: “My Hill, the family farm at Llansteffan, choice? Hogfather, by Terry Pratchett. which looks down on the cottage on What—a paperback?! How pedestrian. the sea at Laugharne where Thomas Okay, but wait: Terry Pratchett has been lived with his wife and children. knighted for his contribution to literature, “Now when I plunge my hands with over 30 novels to his name. And I’ve in snow-white tissue, I see the toy been reading Pratchett since my uncle first trucks and dolls they left in their garpressed Colour of Magic into my hand at den, now a museum. Those toys may 12. Now, it’s not Christmas to me until have been opened during one of those I’ve re-read Hogfather. This fantasy parody child’s Christmases in Wales that Dylan explores the illogical nature of most holiday Thomas shared with the world.” traditions while revealing the cultural and human truth of winter rituals. And it does John Barton, author: “I like Truman Capote’s so with wit, wisdom and is steeped in litershort novella, A Christmas Memory—it’s a perfect ary knowledge.” M piece of writing, to my mind. And the air of nos-
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CHRISTMAS CHEERS
M.A.C. Farrant shares a wee holiday treat While it’s all well and good to read someone else’s work at Christmas, there’s always room for a new holiday favourite. With that in mind, local author M.A.C. Farrant offers this bit of Chrismas cheer from her 2009 book, Down the Road to Eternity (Talon Press).
Stocking Stuffers! Lots of New Stickers
“Jesus Loves Me But He Can’t Stand You” * I’m drinking alone this Christmas. I’ve hired a wino to decorate my home. I’ve put a bar in the back of my car so I can drive myself to drink. Jesus, will you be drinking with me this Christmas? Will you be thinking of me if you do? My head hurts and my feet stink. I don’t know whether to kill myself or go bowling.
*Compiled from actual country and western song titles.
—M.A.C. Farrant monday mag.com
THE SANTA CLAUSE: Penny Sakamoto, Publisher
PRANCER: Susan Duhamel, Production Supervisor
SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE MARTIANS: John Threlfall, Editor
SILENT KNIGHT: Sean McLaughlin, Production
THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS: Otiena Ellwand, Amanda Farrell, contributors
YOU BETTER WATCH OUT: Rae Bilash, Katey Robutka, Tim Slevan, Wendy Young, Melanie Zimmerman, Classified Advertising
JACK FROST: Oliver Sommer, Sales Director
A CHRISTMAS STORY: Bruce Hogarth, Circulation Director; Wendy Denison, Distribution, 360-0817
THE GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD: Lynne Bain, Ruby Della-Siega, Mick Thandi, Sales Representatives
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: Marie Morton, Receptionist
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he holiday buffet table is full of delicious goodies. You don’t know what to choose. Should you eat your fifth hors d’oeuvre, or maybe go for a third dessert— chocolate this time—or what about another cup of eggnog? Yes, it’s that time of year again. Now, say you’re vegan, vegetarian, celiac, lactose-intolerant or have other alternative-diet requirements. Imagine how much more challenging navigating that buffet table would be. World traveler and recent Victoria You too can have a delicious holiday transplant Jill Wiseman has been a feast with nary a slice of meat in sight vegan for four years and has a lot of experience maintaining her diet in unconventional conditions. For the past nine Wiseman says what’s most important to months, Wiseman backpacked across South her family and friends is that she doesn’t America, Europe, Africa and India all while criticize what they choose to eat—and they documenting her vegan finds on her website, show her the same respect. “I’m always Vegan Backpacker (veganbackpacker.com). interested to know how they prepare dishes, While she said it wasn’t difficult to discover and make sauces, even if they involve animal vegan options in large metropolitan cities, products,” says Wiseman. “I like to think the smaller locales had limited options. Her about how I could apply the same process trick? Carry a bag of snacks and stash a small or use some of the same ingredients to make spice kit with vegetable bouillon cubes and a vegan dish.” curry or tomato paste in her luggage. That Like Wiseman and her spice kit, Ellen way, when she got to the hostel or to the Bayens, the executive member of the Victoria home of the people she was staying with, it chapter of the Celiac Scene (theceliacscene. was simple for her to whip up some delicious com), says that the most important thing vegetable dishes and hearty soups in a jiffy. is to be prepared. Bayens suggests eating a While Wiseman won’t be carrying a spice small meal before you head out just in case kit from party to party, she learned from your food is delayed or they aren’t serving her DIY vegan-cooking-on-the-move. She’s what you eat. She also recommends calling well-prepared for overcoming the hurdles restaurants and speaking with hosts ahead that holiday foods may pose. “My approach of time so that you won’t have to deal with for the holidays is to show family and friends awkward questions about why your plate that vegans can fit in at the dinner table and is empty. Keep quick snacks on-hand and that they have some delicious food to share. I consider contributing your own dish to the don’t expect everyone to eat what I’m eating, festivities—something Bayens says more and but I’m happy to share what I prepare with more people are having to do these days. anyone who is interested,” says Wiseman. Just because so much of the holiday expeMost holiday meals are synonymous with rience revolves around food doesn’t mean meat, cheese and butter. Hosts may feel that vegans, celiacs and people with alternaoverwhelmed if they have to work around tive dietary requirements can’t have fun. those ingredients for their guests, which is “Be positive. As long as you are enjoying why Wiseman doesn’t like to impose her diet yourself, few people will notice that you are on others. “I’m always happy to cook for eating a meal different from what is being them and let them watch me in the kitchen served,” says Bayens. And if you run into . . . I ask people to stick to what they know any dead-ends, look no further than one of and let me provide the vegan fare. Of course, the many restaurants in Victoria that cater if someone was really interested in cooking a to alternative diets. Just make sure that you vegan dish, I wouldn’t object.” get dibs on deciding where to go. M
CHRISTMAS CALENDAR
Pre-Holiday Shopping Event
FREE DOWNTOWN PARKING Here’s a merry perk for your seasonal shopping: enjoy two hours free parking at all five City parkades every Saturday from 11am to 2pm until December 18 courtesy of the Downtown Victoria Business Association. Weekdays, ask for a “First Hour Free” voucher for City parkades wherever you shop or dine downtown. And the five City parkades are always free on Sundays and holidays.
Shop between Dec. 1-4 and receive a gift card valued at 25% of your fashion purchase, and 15% of your accessory purchase.
SNOW, EH? It’s the last exhibit of the season at View Art Gallery. Check out paintings, ceramics, prints and gift cards by 22 different artists. The exhibit runs until December 31 at 860 View.
Didn’t get want you wanted last year? Maybe Paws and Claus is for you
Redeem your gift card anytime between Dec 6 - 24, 2010 at Nushin and enjoy the savings.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL Adapted by the late Jeremy Tow, this beloved Charles Dickens tale is all about the perils of greed and selfishness, and what happens when ghosts come to visit on Christmas Eve (in case you didn’t know). Runs November 11 to January 8 at Chemainus Theatre. $39 to $46. 250-246-9820 (chemainustheatrefestival.ca).
EUROPEAN DESIGNER FASHION
Free gift wrapping. Free parking.
BEAR WEAR For the 10th year in a row, the best-dressed teddy bears will be on display from November 16 to December 19 at the Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville. Vote on your favourite bear by donation, place bids in a silent auction or just swing by to take a look at the frills and fur. All funds go to the Queen Alexandra Foundation (queenalexandra.org).
635 Fort St.
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250-381-2131
SMALL WORKS EXHIBIT AND SALE Buy original art from local artists at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Oil, acrylic, drawings, mixed media and photographs range in size from 5”x5” to 12” x 9” and in price from $100 to $150. All work is framed and ready to be hung. Open during regular gallery hours from November 18 to January 2 at 1040 Moss (aggv.c.ca).
OPENING DECEMBER 1st
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The North & South Saanich Agricultural Society Presents the 37th
“Christmas in the Mang Manger” ger
as Christmas s R CRAFT FAIR
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Saturday & Sunday Nov. 27th & 28th • 10am - 4pm ADMISSION
$2 for 2 days Refreshments available Children (under 12) Free
• Free Parking • ATM on Site • Live Animal Displays • 150 Vendors • Children’s Play Area
RCMP Barn & Main Hall Saanich Fairgrounds 1528 Stelly’s X Rd. Saanichton 250.652.3314 • www.saanichfair.ca CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010 7
POINT ELLICE HOUSE CHRISTMAS SALE
Listen to choirs, sample tasty treats from local shops, and watch a fire and dance performance bring more light up the night. November 26, 5pm to 7pm.
Collectibles, baking, stocking stuffers and crafts will be available for purchase at the Visitors’ Centre, plus tours and Christmas tea by reservation, November 26 to December 18 from 11am to 3pm. A reading and special tour through the house in all its finery on November 26 and December 10 from 10am to 11am at 2616 Pleasant (pointellicehouse.ca).
GOH BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER Everyone’s holiday favourite takes over the Royal Theatre with 36 musicians in the pit and raves from its debut in Vancouver last season. Running 7:30pm November 26 and 27, with 2pm matinees November 27 and 28. Tickets range from $59.75 to $99.75, $5 off for students and seniors, $12 off for kids under 12 (rmts.bc.ca).
SANTA VISITS THE MALLS The big red one will be at Mayfair Mall daily from November 20 to 30 from noon to 4pm, and then again from December 1 to 23, Monday to Saturday 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5pm and 6pm to 9pm, and on Sundays from noon to 5pm, plus 10:30am to 3:30pm December 24. See Santa between December 1 and 12 from 6pm to 8pm and receive one free 5x7 photo (mayfair. shopping.ca). Santa will also be at Hillside Centre starting on November 26 from 6:45pm to 8:30 pm (hillsidecentre.com). And he’ll be very busy at Tillicum Centre and Pearkes Arena on November 28, starting with a pancake breakfast by donation from 9am to 10am. Then enjoy a free Christmas movie at SilverCity from 10 to 11:30am, plus a magic show from 11:30am to 12:30pm then head over to the Kindergym or skate at Pearkes from 1pm to 2:50pm and round it off with a story from Santa at Pearkes from 3pm to 3:30pm. All Santa Day activities are available for minimal charges and/or by donation. 250-475-5400 (tillicumcentre.ca).
THE WIZARD OF OZ Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion, and Toto as they follow the yellow brick road to meet the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, courtesy of this Victoria Operatic Society live production. November 25, 26 and 27 at 8 pm and November 28 at 2pm at the McPherson Playhouse. Tickets $20-$30 (rmts.bc.ca).
PAWS & CLAUS How much do you love your pet? How much does your pet love Santa? How much do you love both? Capture them together at the 7th annual Paws & Claus event at the Centre Court of Mayfair Mall on November 24 and 25 from 6pm to 8pm. $9.95 with proceeds going to SPCA Victoria.
FESTIVAL OF TREES A forest of decorated trees will take root at the Fairmont Empress and Victoria Conference Centre from November 25 to January 4. The festival benefits the B.C. Children’s Hospital. For more information call 250-389-2727 (fairmont.com/empress).
8 CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010
Head back in time for a 19th century holiday experience at Craigdarroch Castle
HOLIDAY CHEER LOUNGE NIGHT Get warmed up with a tea cocktail, free nibbles and mini spa services. Sample a selection of holiday teas and learn some new recipe ideas for your holiday entertaining. This free, annual event will be held on November 25 from 5 pm to 9 pm at Silk Road, 1624 Government. 250-704-2688.
A MARKET SQUARE HOLIDAY Come and see Victoria’s historic Market Square in sparkling lights and festive decorations. Enjoy treats and drinks, live music, prize giveaways and 10 percent off all boutiques. Don’t miss Ginger-B, the humansize gingerbread cookie mascot and her gingerbread house in the courtyard. If you’d like to help less fortunate Victoria families this holiday season, bring a non-perishable food item for the Mustard Seed Food Bank collection box. November 25, 5pm to 8pm at 560 Johnson (marketsquare.ca).
VICTORIA GALLERY WALK Enjoy festive refreshments, live entertainment, décor, and fabulous art at the 13th Annual Gallery Walk to be held on November 25 from 3pm to 8pm. Collect stamps from all seven participating galleries in your “Gallery Walk Passport” and enter for your chance to win one of seven original pieces of art. Participating galleries include: Alcheringa Gallery, Legacy Gallery, Madrona Gallery, West End Gallery, View Art Gallery, Winchester Modern and Winchester Gallery. 250-388-0009 for more information.
CENTENNIAL SQUARE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT-UP Kick-off the holiday season with the third annual lighting of City Hall’s Centennial Square sequoia.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY GREAT GINGERBREAD HOUSE SHOWCASE Forty beautiful gingerbread creations will be on display from November 26 to January 2 from 10am until 6pm daily at the Inn at Laurel Point, 680 Montreal. Vote on your favourite! All proceeds go to support Habitat for Humanity in the community.
OUT OF HAND CRAFT FAIR Spice up your holiday shopping with high quality and original contemporary crafts, artwork and artisan food from across Canada. November 26, noon to 9pm, November 27, 10am to 6pm, November 28, 10am to 5pm at the Crystal Gardens. And don’t miss Friday’s 5-9pm “Fashion in Action: An Indie Girl’s Night Out” featuring chef-made nibbles, models and DJ beats. Admission $8. (outofhand.ca).
OWL DESIGNER FAIR The fourth annual hip design and craft fair features all local artists. Unique handmade gifts for all ages— textile artists, painters, clothing designs, repurposed vintage, jewelry, pottery and more. Grab a bite to eat at the café and enjoy live music at the Fernwood NRG Community Centre gym, 1240 Gladstone. November 26, 6pm to 10pm, November 27, 10am to 9pm. Entry fee by optional donation, proceeds go to the musicians and the Fernwood NRG. E-mail owl@eaphoto. ca or call 250-888-7927.
SANTA LIGHT PARADE WARM-UP Drop by before the parade to enjoy musical performances on City Hall’s Spirit Stage, popular children’s performer the Mad Hatter and children’s activities including crafts, face-painting, inflatables, a hockey shoot-out and interactive Wii games. Stay warm with a free cup of hot chocolate and treats. Santa and his elves will make a special visit. 4pm to 6pm November 27 at Centennial Square.
SANTA’S LIGHT PARADE This annual parade draws crowds of more than 40,000, bands, floats and the jolly man himself to downtown Victoria. Join in the holiday cheer while also raising food items and awareness for the Mustard Seed Food Bank. The celebration will be held on November 27 starting at 5pm running along Government Street. 250-382-3111.
NAUTICAL WREATH WORKSHOP On November 27 and 28, the Maritime Museum in Bastion Square is holding its popular wreath-making workshop from 1pm to 4pm. The $25 fee includes the rope and instructions, but you have to bring gloves and a metal coat hanger. Register at 250-385-4222.
TEA TOAST THE HOLIDAYS Tea is for more than just scones. Learn to make tea punch, mulled teas, tea martinis, tea infused spirit drinks, tea sangrias and dessert drinks at a special Silk Road workshop on November 27 from 2pm to 3:45pm at 1624 Government. $12, plus discounts on select teas.
OAK BAY CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Thousands of Christmas lights, entertainment with Daniel Lapp and the BC Fiddle Orchestra, roasted chestnuts and even Santa Claus will make an appearance as the Light-Up Festival celebrates its 10th year. Take a stroll along Oak Bay Avenue from 3pm to 6 pm on November 28, with the lights coming on at 5pm and Santa arriving shortly thereafter (oakbaybia.ca).
HEMMAMADE The popular annual craft and artist sale returns with a fine selection of local fashion designers. November 27 from 4pm to 8pm at Hemma Yoga, 1274 May. 250-294-0434 (hemma.ca).
HORSE-DRAWN TROLLEY RIDES Enjoy a classic tradition with your family this holiday season for free. From November 27 to December 18, hop on a horse-drawn trolley from 11am to 3pm and take a scenic break from the holiday frenzy.
Classy tenor Ken Lavigne sings for the season
WISH LIST
4 at Lucky Bar, 517 Yates for $18 at door or $15 advance at Lyle’s Place or cheesecakeburlesque.com.
Don’t know what to get for that special someone this holiday season? Check out this group exhibition of local artists featuring the likes of everyone from Maxwell Bates, Herbert Siebner and Eva Campbell to Robert Randall, Phyllis Serota, Charles Campbell and many others. Opens noon to 6pm November 28 and runs to December 24 at Polychrome Fine Arts, 1113 Fort. 250-382-2787 (polychromefinearts.com).
A TOUCH OF SALT SPRING Let the Gulf Islands craft masters come to you with this annual fair and Christmas show, December 3 10am to 8pm, December 4 and 5 10am to 5pm at the Panorama Recreation Centre, 1885 Forrest Park Drive in North Saanich. $4 for a 3-day pass. 655-0967 (atouchofsaltspring.com).
A VINYL CAFÉ CHRISTMAS This year, Stuart McLean and the Vinyl Café tour comes to town on November 29 and 30 at 7:30pm at the Royal Theatre. Think Dave will cook a turkey? With special musical guest, Matt Anderson. $52 to $57. 250-386-6121 (rmts. bc.ca).
A CHRISTMAS TAPESTRY
Find the magic of the season at Butchart Gardens
LADIES’ SHOPPING NIGHT It’s ladies night, oh what a night . . . come on out to the Oaklands Community Centre for a fun night of prizes, giveaways, refreshments, a fashion show and silent auction and of course lots of socializing and shopping. $8 in advance or $10 at door. November 30 from 7pm to 10pm at 2787 Belmont (oaklandscommunitycentre.com).
NOEL BAZAAR CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR This ever-popular annual event hosted by Rebel Rebel returns with another fun and funky show full of young local artisans and designers. Great music, unique gifts, and a bar! November 30 from 5-9pm, and December 1-2 from 2-9pm at the Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad. Admission by donation.
CHRISTMAS STARLIGHT CINEMA Bring your own chair and blanket and head down to the Harbour Front Patio every Tuesday and Wednesday night in December to watch family Christmas films on a big screen. The movies are free and start at 6pm, but donations are being accepted for Santa’s Anonymous at Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort & Spa, 45 Songhees. 250-360-2999.
CHRISTMAS WALKING TOURS Discover Victoria’s colourful past by taking an enlightening and entertaining walk with historian John Adams and his team of knowledgeable guides. Holiday themed walking tours begin in December and include topics such as, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas in Old Victoria, Christmas in Old Victoria Illustrated Walks, and the year-round favourite, Chinatown Walks. Call 250-384-6698 for detailed schedule, fees and to make private bookings (discoverthepast.com).
CHRISTMAS CHARITY ROCKFEST
FOOD, FASHION AND ART Food labels and fashion come together in a display of one-of-a-kind garments created by fashion design students from the Pacific Design Academy’s fall 2010 programme. The outfits will be on display from December 1 to January 2 at the Bay Centre, and will raise awareness and funds for the Mustard Seed Food Bank. Place a vote and you could win a $100 Bay Centre gift card. 250-952-5690 (thebaycentre.ca).
PUBLIC MENORAH LIGHTING Remember, other faiths celebrate the season too. Help light the Menorah on December 1 from 6pm to 7pm on the front steps and driveway of the Legislature.
BUTCHART GARDENS CHRISTMAS LIGHT-UP The gardens will be lit with tens of thousands of bulbs on December 1 shortly after 5pm, when the festive 12 Days of Christmas display and the Traditional Carollers and the Festive Brass will be there to bring music to your ears. Free carousel rides will be complimentary to coincide with the celebration on December 1, and don’t forget your blades for the outdoor skating rink. Display runs to January 6 (butchartgardens.com).
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ACROSS CANADA Get cozy on the front lawns of the Legislature on December 2 from 4:30pm to 5:30pm to celebrate the lighting of the provincial Christmas tree. The event will include children’s choirs, a carol band and hot cocoa and cookies. 250-387-8669.
FORGETFUL ELF AND THE GOLDEN CHRISTMAS KEY Join Four Seasons Musical Theatre for this original tale of holiday cheer. Bring your singing voice! December 3 at 7pm plus December 4 at 2pm and 5pm. $8-$10. Isabelle Reader Theatre, 1026 Goldstream in Langford. 250-478-0329 (fourseasonsmusicaltheatre.com).
Master Joda kicks it up a notch with a pair of shows for Christmas. December 1, it’s the All-Star Grunge Tribute Band for a 19-plus gig from 9:30pm at V-Lounge, 3366 Douglas. And December 2 it’s an all-ages gig with Year of the Rat, This Day Burns, Aegis Fang and Covalen at Rehab, 502 Discover. $5 minimum donation for both.
IMAX XMAS FILMS
MAN AND HIS DOG FASHION SHOW
Holidays hit the Royal BC Museum’s IMAX with The Light Before Christmas and The Polar Express, both running December 3 to 31.
It’s the third annual incarnation of this popular models with dogs fashion event. December 1 from 7:30pm at Outlooks for Men, 534 Yates. $30 tickets raise funds for the Turtle Gardens Animal Rescue. 250-384-2848.
A NAUGHTY BUT NICE PEEP SHOW Christmas has come early this year, and the Cheesecake Burlesque Revue want to share the seasonal love. December 3 at 8:30pm at Metro Studio, 1411 Quadra for $22/$25, and December
Experience the joy of a traditional Christmas repertoire by Vox Humana, one of Victoria’s great choirs, plus a world premiere performance of a work by Jeff Enns. At 7:30pm on December 3 at St. John the Divine, 1611 Quadra, and at 7:30pm on December 4 at St. Barnabas, 1525 Begbie. Tickets $8/$15 from info@voxhumanachoir.ca or 250-483-4010.
BRITISH MUSIC HALL Let loose, laugh and experience this great British tradition of song, dance, special acts, storytelling and jokes. The Victoria Gilbert and Sullivan Society present this show that’s similar to American vaudeville and they want your cheers and jeers. December 3 and 4 at 8pm and December 5 at 2pm at Fairfield New Horizons, 380 Cook. $25 at Ivy’s Book Shop, Long & McQuade and venue. 250-592-9268.
ALLISON CROWE’S TIDINGS The marvellous Ms. Crowe returns to share her annual Victoria Tidings, with guest Bob Benvenuti. December 4 at Fairfield United Church, 1303 Fairfield. $15-$20
CAROLYN MARK Join the alt-country corn queen for this Mint Records Xmas bash, with Rugged Uncle, Hot Panda, Geoff Berner and Laura Barrett. December 4 from 10pm at Logan’s Pub, 1821 Cook. $10
MARKET
SQUARE
A BRITISH CHRISTMAS Linden Singers of Victoria present music and readings from the Victorian period, featuring the Oak Bay High Chamber Choir. The concert will be held on December 4 at First Metropolitan Church, 932 Balmoral. Tickets at Ivy’s Book Shop, Munro’s Books, Long & McQuade and venue office. $18/$15.
SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS BLUEGRASS CONCERT Catch John Reischman & The Jaybirds when they return for this second annual concert in support of Our Place, December 4 from 8pm at Oak Bay United, 1369 Mitchell. $25 at the door and Royal/McPherson box office. 250-386-6121.
A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE THINGS A craft fair featuring some of Victoria and Vancouver’s hippest artisans, including Young @ Heart, Barbeau T, Comrie Knits, Leslie Carty Jewelry and Designs by Nattie Ann. Admission is free and proceeds from drinks go to the United Way. Check it out on December 4 from 5pm to 9pm at Madrona Gallery, 606 View.
ISLAND UKULELE PLAYERS Strum along with the Island Ukulele Players, December 4 from 11:30am to 12:30pm at Market Square, 560 Johnson. What’s Hawaiian for “Adeste Fideles”?
Giveget
and the Best Christmas Gifts from Market Square Boutiques. marketsquare.ca | 560 Johnson CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010 9
Celebrate the Winter Solstice with the mystical sounds of Winter Harp
FIGGY PUDDING CAROLLING COMPETITION Friends, co-workers, good singers and bad all come together on December 4 for this inaugural festival at Centennial Square. From 4pm to 7pm, groups of carolers will be serenading passersby. A roaming panel of celebrity judges will be on the lookout for the best singers of the season and the most sensational costumes. It’s sure to be a figgy good time!
JOHNSON STREET WINTER WONDERLAND LoJo will be transformed with all the best winter activities: a skating rink, toboggan run, photos with Santa, snow people village, Christmas tree sales, carolers and more. Join local merchants fundraising for the Salvation Army on December 4 from 11am to 6pm in the 500-600 blocks Johnson Street.
See it all For just $46* you can see an
IMAX movie 3,993 times next year (and supersize your popcorn too) * tax
AT GRE T
GIFEA ID
extra
ON SALE NOW
at the Theatre or buy online imaxvictoria.com
In the Royal BC Museum 675 Belleville Street 250.480.4887
New for 2011: Online ticketing for pass holders 10 CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010
MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS GIFT SHOW Buy some great goods for the loved ones on your list while enjoying music, food and a KidsZone at the Burnside Gorge Community Centre on December 4 from 9am to 3pm at 471 Cecelia. Funds raised will be going to support the Burnside Gorge Community Association’s Active Families Fund, Homeless Outreach, and Child Care Programs. For more information call 250-388-5251 or email rec-bgca@shaw.ca.
ROYAL OAK HOLIDAY GIFT SALE New creations from 50 of BC’s best artists, artisans and designers will be on display at this one-day event
on December 4 from 10am to 3pm at 4564 West Saanich Rd. All proceeds going to benefit the middle school students’ clubs, teams, extracurricular and classroom activities. $2, free for students. romsvic@ gmail.com.
SANTA SHUFFLE Does Santa dance or does he shuffle? Do both on December 4 from 10am to 11:30am at the 10th annual Santa Shuffle. Choose between a 5km fun run or a 1km walk to raise money for the Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, which helps feed families in need. Meet at High Point Church, 949 Fullerton, and then along the Vic West portion of the Galloping Goose. 250-386-3366, ext. 3 (santashuffle.com).
THE HOBBIT You don’t have to go all the way to New Zealand to see Tolkien’s characters come to life. Don’t miss the magic of this Kaleidoscope Theatre live production. December 4, 10, 11 at 7pm and December 5 and 12 at 2pm at the McPherson Theatre. $22.75 to $25 at the McPherson box office. 250-386-6121 (kaleidoscope.bc.ca).
TRUCK LIGHT PARADE WARM-UP Bring the family to this lead-up to the Truck Light Parade. Enjoy carollers, magic by Paul Kilshaw, ice carving and children’s activities including crafts, facepainting, inflatables, a hockey shoot-out and interactive Wii games. Santa and his elves will make a special visit. Join us for complimentary hot chocolate and treats from 4pm to 7pm December 4 at Centennial Square.
THE GALLERY RED BARN MARKET
TOYING AROUND
PURE DAY SPA
LASTING IMPRESSION STAMPS LADYBUG CANDLES & GIFTS
Help celebrate the upcoming 25th annual Fringe Festival and make a bid on some amazing one-of-akind items—like a house concert by Anne Schaefer, a private ghost tour for 15 people by John Adams and more—at the Intrepid Theatre’s silent auction fundraiser on December 5 at 7pm at Metro Studio. Tickets $10 advance or at the door (intrepidtheatre.wordpress.com).
FABULOUS HOLIDAY SHOPPING..... YOU’LL FIND EVERYTHING FROM SHOES TO CARROTS !
MATTICK’S FARM MINIGOLF
THE FRINGE THAT STOLE CHRISTMAS
Brings Christmas Home To You
COUNTRY GIFT SHOPPE
Have you ever seen 50 tubas together on one stage? Well, here’s your chance! Led by UVic music prof Eugene Dowling for their 32nd year, these players hail from across B.C. and the Pacific Northwest and will be performing seasonal favourites on December 4 from 1 pm to 3 pm at Market Square, and again from 2:30 to 4:30pm December 5 at UVic’s Phillip T. Young Auditorium. Both concerts by donation (marketsquare.ca).
Join the University of Victoria Chamber Singers for this musical tapestry of choral gems to celebrate the winter season including traditional Swedish and English works, as well as Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols, plus the world premiere of a newly commissioned work by Canadian composer Jeff Enns. December 5 from 8pm to 9:30pm at UVic’s Phillip T. Young Recital Hall. Tickets $11.50.
MATTICK’S FARM
A STABLE WAY OF LIFE
TUBA CHRISTMAS
VALKOMMEN JUL!
ADRIENNE’S TEA GARDEN
If you like lighted trucks, then you might like ships too. This event happens right after the Lighted Truck Parade at around 7pm on December 4 in the Inner Harbour at Ship Point. A festive market will be taking place from 2pm to 9pm. Santa will kick of the 21st annual parade with candy canes and hot chocolate so you can watch the decorated vessels brighten up the harbour with a little bit of warmth in your hands. Bring new or gently used coats, blankets, towels, or personal hygiene products or donate $2 to the Victoria Cool Aid Society and be entered to win great prizes.
John Adams knows his Christmas ghosts— and you can bid on a private tour with him at the Fringe That Stole Xmas auction
PAPER CHAIN
THE LIGHTED SHIP PARADE
VQA WINE SHOP
SECRET GARDEN
THE CONTINENTAL KITCHEN
Fill festively decorated and absolutely not carbonneutral trucks (but we still love it!) on December 4 with nonperishable goods for the Mustard Seed Food Bank and the West Shore Service Clubs Christmas Hamper Fund Society. The trucks start at Ogden Point around 5:45pm; tthe second stop is the Oak Bay Village at 6:30pm; then it’s Yates and Douglas at 7pm; followed by the overpass at Helmcken and Trans Canada Highway at 7:30pm; and ending at the Western Speedway where Santa will be for 8:15pm. Everyone is invited to gather at the Western Speedway for the post-parade fun, admission is by cash or by nonperishable food item (ieoa.ca).
With over 15 shops to choose from. Christmas magic really happens. Make gift giving special this holiday season! Live Christmas Choir and visits with Santa in December. Customer Appreciation - December 16 - Open until 9 pm Check website for additional details at: www.matticksfarm.com
SUNDAY’S SNOWFLAKES
COUNTRY GOOSE CLOTHING COMPANY
IEOA TRUCK LIGHT PARADE
ART KNAPP VICTORIA GARDEN CENTRE
CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010 11
ESQUIMALT CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS
Soulfull songstress Allison Crowe returns with her annual Tidings
CAROL-ALONG WITH THE CARILLON Sing along beside the Newcombe Singers and live music from the largest carillon in Canada at the Royal BC Museum. Song sheets, hot chocolate and cookies will be provided. If you are a member of the RBCM, come early and view the museum’s Old Town all done up in traditional Christmas finery. December 5 from 4:30pm to 5:15pm (royalbcmuseum.bc.ca).
DROP-IN WREATHMAKING EVENT Make your own festive wreath with CRD Regional Parks interpreters. Food and donations welcome for the local food bank. Meet at the CRD tents near the main Beaver Lake parking lot on December 5
from 11am to 3pm. 250-478-3344 or crdparks@crd.bc.ca.
THE SNOWMAN & THE BEAR The films based on two stories by Raymond Briggs will be screened with live musical accompaniment by the Victoria Symphony on December 5 at 2:30pm at the Royal Theatre. Tickets range from $15.50 to $31.50 (victoriasymphony.ca).
45th ANNUAL CAROLLING WEEK Join the City of Victoria for this seasonal event at City Hall, featuring local elementary and middle school choirs performing in the City’s antechamber. Listen in or join in, it’s all up to you. December 6 to 8 and December 10, noon to 12:40pm.
Embrace the season and light up your life with a festive parade and a lighting contest. After the parade there will be a wrap-up party at the Archie Browning Sports Centre with fun activities, entertainers and refreshments. The parade will be held on December 7 and starts at 6pm from Lyall Street at Canteen Road. Registration deadline for the lighting contest is December 10—250-385-0660 for more information on that (celebrationoflights.ca).
ROCK, ROCK, ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MARKET Rip it up at this perfect mix of music and crafts, where you can browse tables while bands pump up the volume. December 9 from 4pm to 1am at Logan’s Pub, 1821 Cook. Donations at the door for Out of the Rain youth shelter.
CBC’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL Join local CBC Radio staffers plus longtime on-air pals Shelagh Rogers and Arthur Black at this annual reading to benefit Our Place—you’re sure to have a Dickens of a time! December 9 from 7pm at Alix Goolden Hall, 907 Pandora. $5-$15. 250-388-7112.
CHRISTMAS WITH THE KENNEDYS Fast becoming a local tradition, this third annual seasonal folk and jazz concert features Carli and Julie Kennedy, with support by Joey Smith and Kelby MacNayr. December 9 at 8pm at Hermann’s, 753 View $10. Reservations at 250-388-9166. Also December 10 at Sooke Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 1962 Murray.
CHILDREN OF CELEBRITIES CHRISTMAS BENEFIT CABARET All proceeds from this concert featuring the Children plus Loose Change, Four on the Floor, Jim Moffatt and 99Buck will benefit the Victoria Cool Aid Society and the Victoria Women in Need Community Cooperative. December 9 from 7:30pm at the Victoria Events Centre, 1415 Broad. Tickets $20 at Spiral Cafe, Westshore Hearing Solutions and Sneakers Computers (victoriaeventcentre).
A CLASSIC CHRISTMAS WITH KEN LAVIGNE Critically acclaimed tenor Ken Lavigne shares his ample vocal talents in a delightful performance of Christmas classics, featuring a repertoire that ranges from Bing Crosby to Andrea Bocelli.
Spin like an egyptian! Classes starting at $10/hour Local hand made unique gifts
Knotty By Nature Fibre Arts 1816 Government St. 250.412.7980 klbnfibres.ca 12 CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010
December 10 at 7:30pm and December 11 at 2:30pm, at St. Andrew’s, 680 Courtney. $34 at Ivy’s Bookshop, Long & McQuade and Westside Instaprint. 250-4743081 (kenlavigne.com).
MY FUNNY CHRISTMASTIME An array of guest performers will grace the stage at this popular Victoria Symphony concert series at the Royal Theatre. Canada’s foremost musical comedienne, Mary Lou Fallis will be in attendance bringing light-hearted highjinks to orchestra audiences. December 10 and 11 at 8pm and December 12 at 2pm. Tickets range from $31 to $73 (rmts. bc.ca).
WINTER HARP Listen to the mellifluous harp by this perennially popular seasonal group fronted by the talented Lori Pappajohn. December 10 at 7:30pm at Alix Goolden Hall, 907 Pandora. $30 at Ivy’s Book Shop, The Shieling, Munro’s Books and In Bloom Floral Boutique.
NAVY SHIPS LIGHTING CONTEST The annual bright lights on the water show returns to support the Mustard Seed Food Bank, where you can vote for your favourite lighted ship. Admission is a food item or cash donation to the Mustard Food Bank. Runs December 10 to 24 at CFB Esquimalt. 250-363-4671.
KINKY XMAS PARTY What else can you do with a candy cane and holly? Join the Sagacity celebrations and find out for yourself. December 11 at 7pm at the Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad (sagacitygroup.net).
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA With a ho-ho-ho, the jolly man himself makes an appearance at this fun-filled, tum-filled breakfast with Christmas carols, crafts and story time. Perfect for the whole family. December 11 from 9am until 10:30am for $5 at the Oaklands Community Centre, 2827 Belmont (oaklandscommunitycentre.com).
GREATER VICTORIA CONCERT BAND Catch a grand performance by these accomplished local musicians, December 11 from 1pm to 3pm at Market Square, 560 Johnson.
A CHRISTMAS INSPIRED
with w ith the the S Sounds ounds of of the the Symphony Symphony
december 10 & 11, 8 pm december 12, 2 pm royal theatre Bri Jackson, conductor Brian Mary Lou Fallis Ma soprano comedienne sop
Head out to the Muse Winery for this season art exhibition and wine tasting, December 11 and 12 from 11am to 5pm. 11195 Chalet Road in Saanich. 250-656-2552.
Handel’s Messiah december 17, 8 pm december 19, 2:30 pm uvic centre
JON AND ROY HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Tania Miller, conductor Victoria Choral Society and soloists
The two fellas are back with special guests, Damien Jurado, Bahamas, Aidan Knight and Steph MacPherson. December 11 at 7pm at Alix Goolden Hall, 907 Pandora. $22 in advance from Lyle’s Place, Ditch and ticketweb.ca or $25 at the door.
A Viennese New Year’s january 1, 2:30 pm royal theatre
Brian Jackson, conductor Leslie Ann Bradley, soprano Mark Dubois, tenor Ballet Victoria
MOSS STREET HOLIDAY MARKET Over 70 vendors baring locally made crafts, cards, art and clothing, plus winter vegetables, local and sustainable gifts, live music and free apple cider. December 11 and 12 from 10am to 4pm at the Fairfield Community Association and Sir James Douglas School, 401 Moss. 250-361-1747.
25 250.385.6515 5 victoriasymphony.ca vi i concert sponsors
concert media sponsors
host hotel
PANCAKES WITH MR. AND MRS. CLAUS All proceeds from this yummy breakfast at Vista 18 go to support the Times Colonist Christmas Fund. Reserve your spot at the table today by calling 250-3615660. December 11 from 9am to 11:30am at 740 Burdett, $8/$15.
A CAPPELLA CHRISTMAS: A PANTOMIME Join the City of Gardens Chorus for this charmingly odd mish-mash of interactive theatre and musical, a pantomime is full of tricks, songs, and slapstick. December 12 at 2pm and 7pm at the Charlie White Theatre in Sidney. Tickets are $22 at 250-479-6096. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Cridge Centre for the Family.
SALVATION ARMY TOY DRIVE The Naden Band and special guests perform popular and traditional favourites at the Royal Theatre on December 13, 14 and 15 at 7:30pm. $7 plus an unwrapped toy to be donated to the Salvation Army Community and Family Services which will be distributed to needy families (rmts. bc.ca).
What’s Christmas without a Carolyn Mark show?
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My Funny Christmastime
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE In a live, radio-play format, this classic story comes to life
“THE SNOWMAN” BASED ON THE BOOK BY RAYMOND BRIGGS
4TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS EVE FIDDLE JAM
DANIEL LAPP WITH SPECIAL GUEST HUGH FRASER
A MAGICAL TELLING OF A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC JOIN CATHY F. LEWIS SOPRANO AND NICK FAIRBANK PIANIST FOR A TOUCHING AFTERNOON FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
ALL DONATIONS GO TO THE MUSTARD SEED! BRING YOUR FIDDLE AND JOIN MISS EMMA AND HER FIDDLE FRIENDS OR JUST ENJOY THE MUSIC!
“THE CHET BAKER REVIEW” TWO SEATINGS ONLY! AN INTIMATE EVENING TO RING IN THE NEW YEAR! GREAT PRIZES! 50’S ATTIRE (2ND SEATING ONLY)
2:00-3:30 PM TICKETS: $10
6:30-10:00 PM BY DONATION
VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO
DECEMBER 24 TH
NEW YEARS EVE
DECEMBER 18 TH
INFORMATION: WWW.THESUPERIOR.CA RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED 250.380.9515
WINTER
TUES - SUNDAY 5PM --LATE TUES - SUNDAY 5:30PM LATE SAT&&SUN SUN10AM 10AM- -3PM 3PM SAT 106 SUPERIOR SUPERIORST. ST. 106 JAMESBAY BAY JAMES CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010 13
on stage courtesy of Blue Bridge Theatre at the McPherson Playhouse. December 15, 17, 18, 19 at 8pm and December 18 and 19 at 2pm. Tickets range from $21.50 to $42.75. 250-386-6121 (rmts.bc.ca).
THE 5,000 FINGERS OF DR. T This fantasy-nightmare about a boy imprisoned by his piano teacher and forced to practice the instrument endlessly. December 15 at 8pm at The Superior, 106 Superior. Dress up in Nightmare Before Christmas-style attire and enter for your chance to win the prize for best dressed (thesuperior.ca).
MUMMERS MASQUE Saltwater Theater Productions presents this rollicking, fun family show for everyone. Guaranteed to lift your spirits and warm the bleakest midwinter. December 16 and 17 at 7:30pm, plus December 18 and 19 at 2:30pm at St. Ann’s Academy, 835 Humboldt. $23.50/$28.50 at the McPherson Box Office, 250-386-6121.
Who doesn’t love downtown’s annual Santa Light Parade?
WILDE HOLIDAY SHORTS THE RANKIN SISTERS AND A MARITIME CHRISTMAS A little bit of East Coast on the West Coast with Raylene, Heather and Cookie Rankin. December 16 at 7:30pm at the McPherson Playhouse. $51.50 (rmts. bc.ca).
THE GREAT LADIES OF JAZZ
S T E A K H O U S E Grill • Steakhouse • Lounge
The talented four M’s—Maria Manna, Miranda Sage, Melinda Whitaker, and Maureen Washington— will take to the stage on December 16 to perform some holiday jazz classics at the Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad. $32 to $45. tonyedgington@ yahoo.ca.
Call about our special room rates. 777 Douglas Street • www.executivehouse.com
SOMEBODY’S GONNA GET THEIR HALLS DECKED
250-388-5111
Letting loose with the Christmas charm are the Angry Snowmans and The Stockers, December 18 from 10pm. Logan’s Pub, 1821 Cook. $10
OUTDOOR WINTER MARKET Stock your pantry for the holidays with local meats, breads, preserves and more. This downtown outdoor winter market will be open December 18 from 11am until 3pm at Market Square (victoriapublicmarket.com).
CHRISTMAS WITH THE CANADIAN TENORS The Canadian Tenors and the Victoria Symphony will perform a selection from gold selling Christmas album on December 18 at 8pm at the Royal. Alas, it’s already sold out (rmts.bc.ca).
CHRISTMAS AT CRAIGDARROCH CASTLE Take a trip back in time and visit the Castle all decked out in traditional Victorian holiday fashion. Take a lively guided tour with Kate the Maid and Christopher the Butler and find out about the Dunsmuir family. Cider and cookies will be provided after the tour at 1050 Joan Crescent. December 19 and 20 at 6:30 and 7pm on both days. $6.50 to $14.50 (craigdarrochcastle.com).
HANDEL’S MESSIAH Hear the voices ring out and rejoice to Handel’s majestic oratorio, featuring a cast of soloists, the Victoria Choral Society and the Victoria Symphony. December 17 at 8pm and December 19 at 2:30pm at UVic’s University Centre Auditorium. $23-$43 (victoriasymphony.ca).
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS RIDE View Esquimalt’s festive light displays from the comfort of your bicycle seat with the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition on December 18. This 20km ride departs at 6:30pm from the Esquimalt Recreation Centre. Riders must wear helmets and have front and rear lights, and bring water and food. Ends back where it started around 9pm. $5 (gvcc.bc.ca).
14 CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010
The Theatre of Creation Project will be staging Oscar Wilde’s short stories including “The Happy Prince” and “The Remarkable Rocket” for children aged 6 and up from December 18 to December 31 at the Chemainus Theatre. $11. 250-246-9820.
CINECENTA CHRISTMAS FILMS Don’t miss watching your favourite feel-good films at Cinecenta’s Christmas blitz: Love Actually on December 19, A Christmas Tale on December 20 and It’s A Wonderful Life on December 21, all at 7pm in UVic’s Student Union Building (cinecenta.com).
BOXING DAY THE STIR FRY WAY After 13 years, the post-eggnog music blitz is still going strong with Murge, Verse, Sam Demoe, Wood, Salamander, Just B, Phlo, Kia Kadiri and Rebecca Shoichet. December 26 from 9pm at Club 9ONE9, 919 Douglas. $10
ROBINSON CRUSOE It’s not the holidays without a panto, so join the St. Luke’s Players for this one. December 27, 29, 30 & January 31 at 8pm, plus 2pm matinees December 26 to 28 and January 1-2. St. Luke’s Hall, 3821 Cedar Hill X Rd. $4-$15. 250-884-5484. Opening night is 2 for 1!
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Straight from a child’s dream, this new Ballet Victoria production will captivate your eyes and seize your heart. December 28 & 29 at 7:30pm, plus December 29 & 30 at 2pm at the Royal Theatre. $35 to $80. 250-386-6121 (rmts.bc.ca).
THE NUTCRACKER AND SUGAR PLUM FAIRY Canadian Pacific Ballet returns with this classic holiday treat. Let them sweep you off your feet at the McPherson Playhouse on December 28 at 7pm, December 29 at 2pm and 7pm and December 30 at 2pm. $41.50 to $51.50 (rmts.bc.ca).
THE NUTCRACKER AND SUGAR PLUM BALL It’s one night only for this gala reception and dance after the ballet, with music by the Commodores. December 30 at 7pm at the McPherson Playhouse. $57 to $77 (rmts.bc.ca).
ATOMIC VAUDEVILLE Party like it’s 2011 with AV episode 51. December 29 to 31 at 8pm at the Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad (atomicvaudeville.com).
SKATE UNDER THE STARS From January 15 to February 28, the skating rink wil be back on the roof of Mayfair Mall. Open Wednesday to Friday 4pm to 8pm and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4pm. Don’t own skates? Rent them on site for $5 (proceeds to TLC and Victoria SPCA). Free. Kids under 15 need helmets (mayfair.shopping.ca). M
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16 CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2010