SCENE April 2025 by RedPoint Media

OVERHEARD SCENE &

Meet Calgary’s coolest Scenesters, and get their picks on what to do, see, and hear around town.

22 CUFF ‘25

The 22nd Calgary Underground Film Festival keeps it local, featuring tons of Alberta-made productions and a chaotic two-day filmmaking contest.

We acknowledge the traditional territories and the value of the traditional and current oral practices of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina, the Iyarhe Nakoda Nations, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta District 6, and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

13 COVER

2025 SCENESTERS Meet some of the coolest Calgarians around, and get their picks on what to do and see around the city.

4 ACT 1, SCENE 1

What to do, see, and hear this month across the city.

7 ART SCENE

Explore Earth and Sky: Carpet Cultures of Asia at the Nickle Galleries.

8 Q&A

Meet local jazz darling Aimee-Jo Benoit in this monthly Q&A in collaboration with Arts Commons.

9 PHOTOGRAPHY SCENE

Sebastian Buzzalino is re-contextualizing hockey culture through a queer lens with his new photo series, I Am Emotionally Attached to These Men

10 DINING SCENE

Filipino food is taking over Calgary’s culinary scene, and Amihan is among the best spots to check out.

26 THEATRE SCENE

The One Act Play Festival brings new work and emerging artists to the forefront at Calgary’s historic Pumphouse Theatre.

Cover: Tea Fannie

Photo by Zack Pinkowski

Publisher

Käthe Lemon, klemon@redpointmedia.ca

Editor Nathan Iles, niles@redpointmedia.ca

Founding Editor Mike Bell

Designer Kris Twyman

Print/Digital Production Manager Mike Matovich

CONTRIBUTORS

Viancy Salubre, Benjamin Heisler, Evelina Pak, Abbey Whitehead, Lauren Kalinowski, Marcus Ogden, Krista Sylvester, Sheri Block, Mary-Lynn Wardle, Cam Hayden

Client Support Coordinator Alice Meilleur

Senior Account Executive Jocelyn Erhardt

Account Executives Nadine Benoit, Vicki Braaten

Administrative and HR Manager Tara Brand

CEO and co-owner Roger Jewett

President and co-owner Käthe Lemon Design Director Steve Collins

We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada

Association and abides by its professional standards. redpointmedia.ca 1721 29 Avenue SW, Suite 375,

28 VENUE

Loophole Coffee Bar is bringing hot brews and hotter tunes to the edge of downtown Calgary.

30 Cam Hayden

PHOTO: ELYSE BOUVIER

What to do in April

BY VIANCY SALUBRE

HIT A COMIC CONVENTION, LOUNGE WITH SOME LIZARDS, CATCH A SHORT FILM, AND SO MUCH MORE

ARTIFACT SMALL FORMAT FILM FESTIVAL

Calling all film fans! Celebrate the enduring art of celluloid filmmaking at the 30th Artifact Small Format Film Festival, presented by the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers. In 1992, the $100 Film Festival tasked filmmakers to shoot short-form film features on four rolls of Super 8 film, totalling the filmmakers $100. Today, the three-day festival continues to showcase international and local short-form films made on both Super 8 and 16mm, keeping the tradition of analogue storytelling alive. From April 3 to 6, catch a wild lineup of films, from opening night feature Ovid, New York, to short films like Plastic Aortas at different venues all over the city. Visit artifactfilmfestival.com for more information and a reel good time.

SUPERTRAIN 2025

All aboard for SUPERTRAIN 2025! On April 5 and 6, head over to the Olympic Oval at the University of Calgary for one of Canada's premier model train exhibitions. Presented by the Calgary Model Railway Society, the venue transforms into a train enthusiast's paradise where attendees can explore over 70,000 square feet filled with intricate model railroad layouts, interactive displays and captivating exhibits. From seasoned train enthusiasts to curious newcomers, there's something for everyone — even the kids can go nuts with LEGO trains and Thomas the Tank Engine attractions. Grab your tickets to the spectacular train displays, with adult admission for $15 and youth admission for just $5. Admission is free for train lovers under six, so bring the whole family. Learn more over at supertrain.ca.

SLOW BURN BOOKS PRESENTS: INDIE AUTHOR MARKET

Dive into Slow Burn Books’ first-ever Indie Author Market on April 6! Held at the Wild Rose Brewery, this event brings local indie authors together to showcase their latest works of steamy romance fiction. Engage in conversations with authors like Jade Everhart, grab signed copies of enchanting romance novels, and enjoy some delicious cold ones at the brewery — the Wraspberry Ale is always a winner! Entry is just $6, with $1 of each

admission donated to the Alexandra Writers' Centre Society, whose mission is to "empower and inspire storytellers to connect, learn, and develop their craft." Check out the lineup and grab a ticket over at slowburnbooks.ca.

25TH ANNUAL FUNNYFEST COMEDY COMPETITION

Get ready for 10 hilarious nights, with 50 standup comics fighting for $5,000 and the title of funniest comedian. FunnyFest promises fresh talent and gut-busting laughs, with six competing performers bookended by two headlining comedians at the beginning and end of every night. Tickets start at $10 for this laugh-filled extravaganza, with audience contests and prizes to win every night. From April 17 to 26, don’t

miss this gut-busting laugh riot, a tradition in Calgary for over two decades. Find the venues and comedians performing at funnyfest.com

WESTERN CANADIAN REPTILE EXPO CALGARY SPRING 2025

Scale up your weekend plans at the Western Canadian Reptile Expo in Calgary. Visit hundreds of reptiles from around the world at the Acadia Recreation Complex and immerse yourself in a lush array of fauna and flora. Some reptiles to meet include snakes, geckos and all kinds of other new cold-blooded friends to make. Chat with knowledgeable breeders, discover unique plants, and explore a variety of specialized vendors offering top-quality supplies and enclosures for your scaly guy at home. From reptile lovers

to a budding botanist, this event promises something for everyone at any age. Spend your weekend hanging with critters and surrounded by plants on April 19 and 20 Crawl over to wcre. ca for more information.

ALBERTA THEATRE PROJECTS PRESENTS: LIARS AT A FUNERAL

ATP transforms dysfunctional family drama into pure comedy with Liars at a Funeral. In this laugh-out-loud play, a family matriarch named Grandma Mavis fakes her death to bring her divided family back together at her funeral. A mountain of lies are told and family secrets unravel as the outlandish clan tries to, as The Beatles would say, “Come Together.” The play is written by Sophia Fabiilli, directed by Downstage’s artistic director Clare Preuss, and features five actors playing nine(!) characters. Catch all the crazy family antics at the beautiful Martha Cohen Theatre from April 22 to May 11. Visit albertatheatreprojects.com for more information.

MAYOR’S CELEBRATION FOR THE ARTS

Join Mayor Jyoti Gondek and toast the arts in style. Calgary is coming together at the Jack Singer on April 24 for the 2025 Celebration for the Arts, and everyone’s invited! Catch performances by a diverse array of Calgary performers and honour some remarkable accomplishments with the Cultural Leaders Legacy Arts Awards. Keep the vibes going at the after-party and dance the night away with new friends — and maybe even a cocktail or two. This is a can’tmiss party for Calgary’s arts scene. Cheap and even free tickets are available to artists. Grab them now at artscommons.ca.

PHOTO: MURRAY MITCHELL

Tyrell Crews and Helen Knight in Liars at a Funeral.

PHOTO: DANA GERRARD

The Western Canadian Reptile Expo.

REMINISCING IN TEMPO BY DECIDEDLY JAZZ DANCEWORKS

Celebrate four decades of Decidedly Jazz Danceworks with Reminiscing in Tempo. Since its debut in 1984, the company has produced more than 70 concerts; this production revisits highlights and revives dance choreography from across DJD’s 40-year history. A live band led by Kristian Alexandrov accompanies the show, and there’s even a “Relaxed Performance” on May 4 for the folks who struggle with sensory overload. The show runs from April 24 to May 11; tickets start at $30. Don’t miss the chance to experience the rich history and vibrant energy of the DJD Dance Centre. Sashay your way to decidedlyjazz.com for tickets and more information.

JUSTIN WILLMAN –ILLUSIONATI TOUR

Whether you recognize his name or not, there’s a really good chance you’ve already seen comic magician Justin Wilman. He’s appeared on The Tonight Show, The Today Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Conan, Baking Impossible, Cupcake Wars … You get the point. But on top of all that, he’s the star and creator of Magic For Humans and The Magic Prank Show with Justin Willman on Netflix. Justin’s bringing his comedy/magic mashup show to Calgary on April 26 at Mac Hall, and in his own words, he “wants to melt your brain while making you laugh.” There are two performances — one at 4 and another at 7 p.m. — with meet-and-greet ticket options for the true illusion-heads. Conjure up some tickets on Justin’s website, justinwillman.com.

CALGARY EXPO 2025

Cowtown’s dorkiest weekend returns from April 24 to 27, bringing superhero, sci-fi, gaming, anime, and celebrity fans together for an unforgettable party at the BMO Centre. The comic/movies/games/everything Expo just gets bigger every year, and the POW Parade of Wonders is marching a new route from Victoria Park right to the steps of the BMO. Grab a picture with Nosferatu star Nicholas Hoult, pick Frank Miller’s brain about Batman, explore a massive vendor floor, watch a panel,

and so much more. Whether you're a die-hard collector, a casual fan, or a professional cosplayer, this is the place to geek out with fellow enthusiasts. Don’t miss Western Canada’s biggest pop culture event, and be sure to hydrate if you’re in a big, bulky costume! For tickets and more information, visit fanexpohq.com/calgaryexpo.

Justin Willman

PHOTO: CHI TANG Calgary Expo

ACT 1

1 Onstage in April

BY NATHAN ILES

THE LARK ASCENDING

Naomi Woo conducts English composer Ruth Gipps’s brassy Second Symphony, complemented by Vaughan Williams’s The Lark Ascending, performed by violinist (and this year’s MacLachlan/Ridge Emerging Artist) Anna Stube.

April4, 7:30 p.m. at the Jack Singer, 225 8 Avenue S.E., calgaryphil.com

ZUEZEU

Hawaiian artist ZUEZEU is an emerging techhouse producer known for infectious live energy and irresistible grooves. If you RSVP online ahead of time, this show is free before 10:30! April5, 9 p.m. at the Back Alley, 4630 Macleod Trail S.W., backalleycalgary.com

BLUEBEARD’S CASTLE/ GIANNI SCHICCHI

Two operas for the price of one! Catch Béla Bartók’s psyche-drama Bluebeard’s Castle, followed by Giacomo Puccini’s comedic Gianni Schicchi each night of this run. Each show is one act, so don’t worry, you can stretch your legs in between. April5,9,and11 at the Jubilee, 1415 14 Ave. N.W., calgaryopera.com

PUSSY RIOT: RIOT DAYS

The Russian punk rock/protest/multimedia experiment returns to Calgary, this time exploring Maria Alekhina’s second book about her journey after her release from a Russian prison. Expect music, projections, spoken word, and a message more timely than ever. April 10, 7 p.m. at The Palace, 219 8 Ave. S.W., thepalacetheatre.ca

HOLLYWOOD

UNDEAD W/ TECH N9NE, SET IT OFF, AND ZERO 9:36

Masked rap-rockers Hollywood Undead join forces with horrorcore rapper Tech N9ne (who landed The Rock on a verse a few years ago) to bring the heat to Calgary. April12, 6:30 p.m. at MacEwan Hall, 402 Collegiate Blvd. N.W., machallconcerts.com

BAKER’S DOZEN AND SUITE JUBILATION

Start the night off with the swingin’ jazz standards of Chet Baker. Then, enjoy an original suite inspired by the music of Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Wynton Marsalis, and more. April13, 7 p.m. at Bella Concert Hall, 4825 Mount Royal Gate S.W., calgaryjazzorchestra.com

BRETT YOUNG

The “Back To Basics” tour lands in Calgary, starring country’s biggest heartthrob at the moment. Find out why Young earned ASCAP's Country Songwriter-Artist of the Year. April14, 8 p.m. at Grey Eagle Event Centre, 3777 Grey Eagle Dr., reyeagleresortandcasino.ca

NELLY W/ JA RULE CHINGY, AND ST LUNATICS

Where the party at?! At the ‘Dome, clearly. From “Ride wit Me” to “Hot in Herre,” Nelly soundtracked the ‘00s for every millennial with a discbook and a Walkman. April22, 7 p.m. at the Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise S.E., scotiabanksaddledome.com

ARCH ENEMY W/ FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY, BAEST,

AND THROWN INTO EXILE

Swedish death metal champions Arch Enemy just released their 12th studio album, Blood Dynasty

A RUSSIAN FEMINIST BAND LANDS IN ALBERTA, CLASSIC RAPPERS TEAR UP THE ‘DOME, AND STAR WARS GETS THE ORCHESTRAL TREATMENT

Don’t miss the chance to hear some of these new rippers live. April23, 6:30 p.m. at MacEwan Hall, 402 Collegiate Blvd. N.W., machallconcerts.com

STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK IN CONCERT

John Williams's music is iconic, and his work in the best Star Wars movie (yes, I said it) is some of his finest. Seeing a film with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra accompanying makes for an experience like no other. April25and26 at the Jubilee, 1415 14 Ave. N.W., calgaryphil.com

DEATH GASP, W/ LANGUID, DEATH KNELL, CONGEALED FLESH, AND EXCARNATION

Hardcore, crusty punk rock of both the local and international variety is on the menu for this gig. Show up early and buy merchandise from the touring bands; gas ain’t cheap! April26, 8:30 p.m. at the Palomino, 109 7 Ave. S.W., thepalomino.ca

INTERNATIONAL JAZZ DAYS FESTIVAL

Originally a one-day event to celebrate the UNESCO International Jazz Day, JazzYYC has cultivated this festival into a multi-day shindig that lights up the Music Mile and venues across the city around the end of April. April25to30, various venues, jazzyyc.com

MARTYN JOSEPH

“The Welsh Springsteen” is making his way to Canada with his percussive mixture of roots, folk rock, and soul, courtesy of Fish Creek Concerts. May2, 7:30 p.m. at Southwood United Church, 10690 Elbow Dr. S.W., fishcreekconcerts.com

TONY H W/ WORK PARTY, WAX THEORY, AND SPENCER AMADEUS

Anthony Henderson (aka Tony H) is quickly gaining traction for his unique take on progressive tech house music. In fact, legendary DJ Kevin Knapp called him an “artist to watch" in 2021. May3, 9 p.m. at Rated Ultra Lounge, 314 3 St. S.E., ratedultralounge.com

PHOTO: PATRIC ULLAEUS

Arch Enemy

PHOTO: JOLYON HOLROYD

Martyn Joseph

PHOTO: KATIN PESARILLO

Zuezue

Earth and Sky: Carpet Cultures of Asia

THIS EXHIBITION AT THE NICKLE GALLERIES EXPLORES HOW “CARPET CULTURES” ARE SHAPED BY SHARED EXPERIENCES OF TRADE, WEAVING, AND CREATIVE IMAGINING

BY BENJAMIN HEISLER

Consider the lives of hand-woven carpets and consider the lives of their weavers. Earth and Sky: Carpet Cultures of Asia foregrounds the perspectives of weavers, their families and communities in an exhibition of hand-woven textiles — particularly carpets — from across Asia.

“Carpets bring people together, “ says Nickle Galleries curator Michele Hardy while leading a tour. “They are a platform for discussion and performance ... A carpet is like a garden, and a garden is a reflection of something more sacred.”

The textiles on view are significant hand-crafted artworks. Soft surfaces, warm tones and high ceilings extend a compelling invitation to explore the exhibit. These carpets also had functional lives, defining a place where people performed, gathered, took comfort, shared hospitality, celebrated, and took part in the ceremony.

Hand-weaving is a tradition embedded in many cultures worldwide. “The loom, the kind of wool, the kind of knots, the designs, the colours, all of those are regional,” says Hardy. According to Hardy, individual regions will have different craft habits, access to various materials, and different cultural imperatives that they want to communicate.

Many of the weavers’ names were are lost to

the sands of time. In most cases, these textiles would have been woven by a small community of weavers whose individual histories intersected as they worked together. In one section, there are handwoven pattern samples called “Vagireh.” These were likely used to share and teach patterns or for commercial negotiation.

Weaving tools and weaving scripts are also on display. Here, Hardy encourages us to “think about the weavers, weaving in real time and space, and how their knowledge is transmitted.” She asks, “When we put the idea of a weaver back into the picture ... How does that change the narrative? How does that change how we respond to these and what we think of them? How does that help to decolonize some of our thinking around these objects?”

In a cozy pillowed nook, a short video focuses on weavers practicing something called “Pattern singing,” a process where they literally croon the weaving design to one another. Knowledge of a particular pattern is often hereditary and passed down from one generation to the next.

In another section, the exhibit puts the weaver and their family back into the picture, looking at textiles that were used in everyday life and for special occasions. Hardy directs our attention to a pair of long weavings hung on the wall. “These two are architectural textiles,” she says. “They were used as dividing walls within tents or, in that case, a yurt. This one is from Kyrgyzstan in

the east, and that is Kurdish from the west.”

The final section is “broadly about gestures or performance, thinking about not only what happens on the carpet, but these larger gestures of trade and connection with other places.” Here are some of the oldest and largest textiles on display. Hardy calls our attention to the long-lasting, all-natural colours. “Look how vibrant they are after all that time. It is astonishing … there are three blues, multiple reds, there’s yellow, white, green, indigo … it’s quite phenomenal.”

The older carpets usually feature natural dyes made from plants, molluscs or insects. “If flipped over, you would see all of the repairs. There are many patches and areas where they are filled with new work to try and keep it whole.”

As Hardy tours through the exhibition's final section, she muses, “Textiles that are sometimes three to four hundred years old. They have had lives, and they have been used … they have been well loved.”

Earth and Sky: Carpet Cultures of Asia closes on April 26. Curator Michele Hardy leads an exhibition tour on April 11 at 11 a.m. Register nickle.ucalgary.ca.

Nickle Galleries is located on the Ground Floor of the Taylor Family Digital Library at the University of Calgary. It can be accessed for free Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with hours extended to 8 p.m. on Thursdays, and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

IN THE GALLERIES THIS MONTH

Illingworth Kerr Gallery

MFA Thesis Exhibition 2025

Until April 12

Get a taste of the art of tomorrow with an exhibition of final works created by MFA students in Craft Media at AUArts.

Contemporary Calgary

June Clark: Witness until August 31

Opening on April 3, the work of Toronto-based artist June Clark explores how history, memory, and identity have shaped her work. Esker Foundation

Megan Feniak: With All

Our Vernal Suns

Until June 8

This installation includes a vast wooden chain with links carved to resemble various species of moths and butterflies, adding to the exhibit's exploration of ephemera and fragility.

JAZZ IS A CONVERSATION

AIMEE-JO BENOIT ON MUSIC, HOPE, AND BEING ENOUGH

BY EVELINA PAK

Aimee-Jo Benoit is a Calgary-based vocalist and a dynamic force in the jazz community. She is known for her distinct singing style and deep connection to Canadian songwriting. Artists like Sarah McLachlan and Blue Rodeo were a big part of her life, influencing her approach to storytelling and music.

Benoit has released two albums: Borjoner (2020), an improvisational collaboration with Trio Velocity, and Horns of Hope, released last year. Beyond performing, she serves on the board of BuckingJam Music Foundation and shares her experiences on her blog, Mother/Music/Hood

HORNS OF HOPE

“I received a grant from Calgary Arts Development at the beginning of the pandemic. By the time I got the grant in October 2020, I had started working in long-term care because both my husband and I lost work due to shutdowns.

“I had initially planned an intimate album that required deep creative focus, but with a full-time job and three kids, I had no time. By summer 2022, I realized that if I didn’t make another album, I’d be shutting off a piece of myself.

“I needed music that lifted me out of that darkness. The album explores the contrast between light and dark, between defeat and victory. It reflects not just my family’s experience during COVID but also the struggles of society as a whole. The theme of hope was central because we all needed something to hold on to.”

COVER VS. ARRANGEMENT

“Some songs almost beg for another version. Tension in interpretation is what brings new meaning to a song. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about interpretation and metaphor. That’s why I have a hard time when my music is simply labelled as a ‘cover.’ There’s so much more effort involved than just playing the same chords.

“Carsten Rubeling, an arranger I’ve worked with, approaches arrangements with a mathematician’s precision. Every aspect — the tempo,

“WHETHER IT’S THREE PEOPLE OR 100, THE SHARED EXPERIENCE OF WITNESSING ART TRANSFORMS US.”

AIMEE-JO BENOIT

the horns, the drums — adds another layer to the story. That’s the difference. Some might call it pretentious, but I’m okay with that.”

INTRODUCTION TO JAZZ

“My introduction to jazz came through pop music — Sinéad O'Connor’s Am I Not Your Girl?, Björk, and Nina Simone in movie soundtracks. Later, my brother introduced me to more artists, and I had a boyfriend in college who [hosted] a jazz show on CJSW. That exposure helped me appreciate the layers of jazz — how songs are constructed and how they evolve in performance.

“The real magic of jazz happens live. It’s like musicians speaking their language. Of course, this happens in other genres, too, but that dialogue is constant in jazz. Musicians interact, react, and build on each other’s ideas in real-time.”

DREAM COLLABORATION

“Being in a band like Woodpigeon was a special experience. Joining the band gave me the free-

dom to focus on singing and performing in a way that felt empowering.

“As for dream collaborations, I’d love to work with some heavy-hitting female jazz musicians, like Jodi Proznick or Laila Biali. If I could go back in time, I’d love to meet and collaborate with John Coltrane — that would be a dream.”

CALGARY JAZZ SCENE

“We host a house concert series featuring incredible musicians from across Canada and sometimes the States, but Calgary lacks a dedicated jazz venue. In larger cities like New York or Toronto, there are venues specifically for jazz — small, intimate spaces where you can walk in on a Friday night to catch a show. Calgary doesn’t have that consistency.

“I know for a fact we have an incredible amount of talent in this city. And across the board, a lot of arts organizations are struggling with venue size and affordability.”

QUICK TAKES:

FAVOURITE JAZZ VENUE IN CALGARY:

BuckingJam Palace (BJP), Bella Concert Hall

ALBUMS SHE’S BEEN OBSESSED WITH LATELY: Spring into Summer by Lizzy McAlpine Within the Stream by Noah Franche-Nolan The History of Us by The Caryn Davidson 9

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE RECEIVED:

"Your value is not in what you do; it’s in just being. As creatives, we are constantly in a state of absorbing and putting out. Accepting that being is enough is a crucial lesson.”

"ART WAS ENOUGH TO SAVE US ALL…"

“I thought art could be enough to bring about change. But after seeing the political climate shift, I realized that art alone doesn’t create change. If it’s just created in isolation, it’s only meaningful to the artist.

“I now understand that the power of art comes from experiencing it together as a community. Whether it’s three people or 100, the shared experience of witnessing art transforms us. In a world where so many people are isolated, it’s crucial to come together — not just as an audience, but as humans, to experience each other.”

This Q&A was created in collaboration with Art Commons.

Aimee-Jo Benoit will perform with The New Assembly in Canmore on April 12 and in Edmonton on April 15. To see and listen to her works, visit aimeejobenoit.com and follow her on Instagram: @aimeejobenoitmusic.

PHOTO: MELANIE GAUER

Sebastian Buzzalino

BY NATHAN ILES

T"hat's how you finish your man.”

“He has long legs, a good body.” “His edging is really excellent.”

These are just a few of the NHL broadcast quotes re-contextualized by Calgary photographer Sebastian Buzzalino in his newest photo series, I Am Emotionally Attached to These Men. The suggestive snippets adorn the yellow-and-pink hockey card designs surrounding his subjects, a diverse array of masculine figures erotically posed in hockey gear.

The name of the exhibit comes from a Reddit comment. “Years ago, I was browsing the hockey sub right after a game or something,” says Buzzalino. “Some team had lost, and some guy wrote, ‘I'm emotionally attached to these men.’ As anyone who follows any kind of sport knows, people's moods can hinge on whether or not overpaid athletes do well at any given game, myself included.”

According to Buzzalino, the exhibit “delights in the queer voyeurism of fetishizing the masculine body in hockey.” It’s familiar territory for the photographer.

“A lot of the work I do explores how masculinity works, particularly in heteronormative spaces,” he says. “And I've always been into sports in general … A lot of my happiest and saddest moments are tied to sports results. So that's my personal connection.”

Being from Argentina, Buzzalino brings a unique perspective to Canada’s favourite pastime. “Soccer is my main sport,” he says. “I didn't grow up in hockey culture at all, [and] I can barely skate. But over the pandemic, I got really into hockey, and comparing and contrasting it to soccer — South American soccer, in particular

— and how masculinity is handled in the sports drove the initial stages of this project and how we started approaching it.”

Buzzalino’s team included Émilie Gagnon for styling, Andrea Thygesen on hair and makeup, and Ava Wild as assistant.

The series showcases nine models in various states of undress across 20 portraits. One of the more striking shots features fellow photographer Michael Grondin bare-chested, wearing an orange jockstrap, and posed ready to make a slapshot. Combined with the retro hockey card aesthetic, the work offers a playful take on the male gaze inherent to the sport.

“I find the idea of ‘collecting things’ super interesting,” says Buzzalino. “People get really into collecting something and then can serialize that item. It opens up a lot of ideas about these things. Like hockey cards, for instance: once you collect a ton of them over the years, [it can] communicate something about that dominant culture.”

It’s hard to question hockey’s dominance, especially in Alberta. A 2023 Statista survey found that hockey is more popular in Alberta than in any other province, with almost 45 per cent of respondents here saying they follow the sport regularly. From the cheers along 17th Avenue during a Flames home game to the colours projected against the Calgary Tower, the passion is palpable, both on and off the ice.

“When you’re a player, you’re with the same group of guys all the time,” says Buzzalino.

“You're living and dying emotionally. You're trying to achieve your best, right? It's a very deep connection … it’s a crazy bond that only really exists in patriarchy and heteronormative cultures under the guise of sports athleticism … But under heteronormative cultures, you're not allowed to love a ‘man family.’ At the end of that

The exhibit “delights in the queer voyeurism of fetishizing the masculine body in hockey.”

SEBASTIAN BUZZALINO

day, you have to be like, ‘Oh, I love playing with them. I don't love you or love him.’ The love that hockey players feel for each other, especially successful teams, is very mediated.”

Hockey’s complicated relationship with sexuality and intimacy permeates every part of I Am Emotionally Attached to These Men, from conception to execution. The 2018 World Junior Hockey Team sexual assault scandal was a principal influence for Buzzalino, as was the NHL’s back-and-forth policies on the use of Pride stick tape. “Your sexuality has no bearing on how good you are at skating,” says Buzzalino. “The fact that the NHL had such a strong reaction [to Pride tape] just points to the conservative values that the league holds and how much work there is to do.”

Luke Prokop — a minor league player who was drafted as a prospect for the Nashville Predators in 2020 — came out in 2021 and was the first (and at the time of writing, only) openly gay player under contract with an NHL team.

“I hope that people enjoy the photography, but I also hope that people start paying attention to the language that we use to talk about bodies in male-dominated sports,” says Buzzalino. “Consider what those emotional connections mean, particularly with what is largely a closed, conservative culture of sameness in hockey.”

I Am Emotionally Attached To These Men is open to the public until April 15 at Roadrunner Vintage & Studio. Check out Buzzalino's website for more information: unfoldingcreativephoto.com

DINING SCENE

AMIHAN : Street Food and Sweet Ube

A COOL WIND OF CHANGE IS SWEEPING THROUGH CALGARY'S FOOD SCENE, CARRYING THE ENTICING AROMAS OF FILIPINO CUISINE

BY LAUREN KALINOWSKI

In April ‘24, Filipino Restaurant Month took over Calgary’s culinary scene. It was created to “support Filipino restaurants, highlight the skills of Filipino chefs, and encourage the use of Philippine-made ingredients.”

One of the restaurants featured was Amihan Grill + Bakeshop, co-owned by Richard Quiambao and his partners Ryan Tiqui, Allan Ulgasan, Desiree Bansil and Sherrel Bansil. Together, they aim to make Amihan a household name. “Calgary chose me,” says Quiambao, describing what he calls the “typical immigrant story.”

Amihan was opened during the height of the pandemic in 2020. The group initially had the idea for a bakery. "We were scouting out locations and found a small spot,” says Quiambao. When the current northeastern location became available, they took it as an opportunity to expand the concept to include a restaurant.

The foodie community has noticed their efforts. Earlier this year, our sister mag, Avenue, awarded Amihan Best Filipino Restaurant in Calgary. Amihan has also opened a downtown location, perfect for a quick and tasty lunch inside the Paramount building.

“I was browsing through all these Filipino books and magazines,” says Quiambao. “We were trying to find a name that resonates with Filipinos.” They settled on Amihan (pronounced Ah-MEE-han), a word that refers to the season dominated by trade winds. “Think of it like the opposite of a Chinook,” says Quiambao. “It cools down the hot weather [when it's] very humid.”

The wind comes in the winter, around Christmas. Quiambao smiles as he tells the story. “The commonality between all five of us is that we all love Christmas, and Christmas in the Philippines starts in September. The Amihan season brings fond memories and represents Filipino culture.”

There's more to it, though: in Tagalog folklore, a legendary bird named Amihan saved the first human beings, Malakas and Maganda, from a bamboo plant. Both locations of Amihan have

bright, colourful murals by local Filipino artists Harvey Nichols and Kiara Clariz depicting the legend and the wind.

The northeast location is a tidy, modern-casual spot with lots of colour. You can dine in or take out; they also deliver. The front of the restaurant has seating, and at the back of the shop, there's an order counter and bakery display.

Amihan focuses specifically on northern Filipino cuisine. “The taste profile is savoury, sweet, and spicy,” says Quiambao. The standout dishes are undoubtedly the barbecued meats. The homemade sweet, tangy barbecue sauce is to die for, and the chicken inasal is grilled perfectly with a flavourful lemongrass marinade. Everything is made fresh to order, making the restaurant smell sweet, spicy, and delicious.

Filipino favourites like peanut-y beef kare-kare ($21) and various pancit noodle dishes ($15) like bihon, canton, and palabok are on the menu, with pictures of most dishes. The kitchen takes

care and time to prepare each dish to be visually pleasing and to entice patrons unfamiliar with the cuisine. Quiambao's personal favourite is the sisig: pork belly chopped into small pieces and tossed with spicy chillies and citrus, which he likes to pair with a beer.

For cheap and satisfying eats, you’ve got to try the street foods, all priced at only $7. The crispy siomai — think fried pork-shrimp dumplings — pair well with lemon soy sauce. The fishballs and kikiam, fried fish-shrimp cakes, are rich with savoury umami, making you want to eat them forever. Kwek, the orange-battered deep-fried quail eggs, are a favourite of many customers.

Their signature dish is ube flan, which is both delicious and looks great in photos. It combines ube jam and leche, creating a bright purple custardy flan for dessert.

The street food would be ideal bar food, and the Amihan group has the same idea. In the spring, they plan to open Toto Bits, a nighttime

MORE FILIPINO SPOTS TO CHECK OUT

Lola’s Cluck + Oink

Inside the Fresh and Local Market & Kitchens, Lola’s Cluck + Oink offers a curated menu of Filipino snacks and mains.

12445 Lake Fraser Dr. S.E., 587-5771380, @lolasclucknoink

Chopstix Filipino Restaurant

With two locations and a diverse breakfast and dinner menu, Chopstix keeps it fresh and delicious. 9737 Macleod Tr. S.W., 403-2510740; 5315 17 Ave. S.E., 403-2351682, chopstixrestaurant.com, @ chopstixfilipino

Maria’s Kitchen and Grill

Along with traditional Filipino foods, Maria’s also offers Ilonggo recipes like Kansi and Pancit Molo with dumplings and shredded chicken in a tasty broth.

4, 1704 61 St. S.E., 587-496-0336, mariaskitchenandgrill.ca, @ mariaskitchengrill

pop-up shop in the downtown location. It will be open with a select late-night menu for the afterparty crowd Thursdays through Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. for sit-in dining.

Filipino cuisine is booming in Calgary, and Amihan stands out as the perfect spot for devoted fans and curious first-timers. Authentic flavours and warm hospitality bring the vibrant spirit of the Philippines to the Blue Sky City. Visit one of Amihan’s locations today: 208, 3132 26 St. N.E., 403-455-6050; 100, 1011 1 St. S.W., 825-540-1211, and check out their website: amihan.ca.

PHOTO: ALEJANDRO STA. INES

Scenesters

MEET

FAVE CELEBS

APRIL 24 - 27, 2025

BMO CENTRE AT STAMPEDE PARK

2025 Calgary

Scenesters

It takes a village to make a city’s arts and cultural scene soar. Meet some movers and shakers making Calgary an eventful and vibrant place to call home, and get some of their top recommendations for things to do, places to see, meals to eat and shows to binge.

BY MARCUS OGDEN, ABBEY WHITEHEAD, KRISTA SYLVESTER, AND EVELINA PAK

JAMAINE CUMMINGS

Kayla Bigras, better known as Bitch Sassidy, is a prolific Calgary-based performer and community builder. Bigras first worked as an actor before coming across burlesque during her time in Vancouver. Once in Calgary, she became entangled in the city’s burlesque world. Bigras co-founded and heads The Cabaret Company, which was named the number one production company in the country last year by Imperial Burlesque Canada. Bigras loves how performing both as an empowered high-femme in burlesque and as a drag king named Smokey Waters satisfies the spectrum of her gender fluidity.

“

The Trop! When we started doing drag shows there, we had some pushback from their clientele, being like, ‘Not drag, boo,’ and the general manager handled it really well. She was basically like, ‘If you have a problem with what we're doing, then you don't have to come.’”

“It was my birthday the other week, and I decided to do a bunch of little celebrations … I tried a bunch of places for the first time. There's a place called Rise and Shine. It's a breakfast place in Forest Lawn, it's a Filipino fusion place. So that was good. Then, I tried Redheads Cafe, which is a Japanese street food place. That was really good.”

“Somebody turned me on to Nuxx Vomica. It's this electronic sort of vibey gothy thing … I guess that's the kind

of music I'm into.”

“Most of my hours are consumed by running the business, and then we have three dogs that have a lot of energy

… Heather Cox Richardson does a newsletter summary to keep you in touch with what's going on in the world. That's where a lot of my focus has been.”

“We're [watching] a lot of TV shows right now. The Traitors is the new gay obsession, and I want them to do an all-queer cast because they keep bringing on [drag queens] like Peppermint and Bob the Drag Queen. I feel like all these people who exist more in a heteronormative society are like, ‘They're a traitor,’ and we’re like, ‘No, they're just gay. That's just how gay people talk.’”

—M.O

1 “I love getting out in nature and just thinking. I grew up around Signal Hill, so Battalion Park is a spot I always go back to. Griffith Woods is another great place to take a walk and clear your head.”

2 “Big T’s is always a solid choice — good food and good vibes. But if I’m craving Jamaican food, I have to make the trip up north to Crazy Jerk. It’s worth it every time.”

Born and raised in southwest Calgary, Jamaine Cummings has always been captivated by storytelling in sports, movies, and live events. His journey into broadcasting was unconventional, shaped by music, culture, and everyday experiences. “Basically any element of my daily life that isn't necessarily tied to the element of sports is where I get my inspiration from,” says Cummings. His big break came when a friend’s co-host fell ill, giving Cummings a last-minute shot at calling a SAIT basketball game. He impressed immediately, earning a season-long role. Six years later, he’s a key voice for Calgary Surge broadcasts. With his signature energy and fresh perspective, he makes every game exciting and engaging for fans.

“My sister visited from Miami, and she really wanted to see Winsport

because of the Jamaican bobsled team’s history. Heritage Park surprised me — it’s something we might overlook as Calgarians. She was just kind of taken aback by the 1800s feel to it.

“I love vintage wear. So, if you're in that line like me, Inglewood is a must-visit. Inglewood is pretty cool as an area. There's kind of something for everybody going on down there.”

“Obviously, if it's in season, you have to go to a Surge game. You have to go to Winsport and go see the Calgary Surge play basketball, for sure.”

KAYLA BIGRAS

PHOTO: VOLUMATIC

Scenesters

COVER JESS ARCAND

As a senior national publicist with Take Aim Media, Jess Arcand’s work is dedicated to helping musicians, festivals, and organizations grow their brands through impactful campaigns. She’s worked with artists like Justice and SUUNS and has collaborated with local arts organizations such as Sled Island, Femme Wave Music and Arts Festival, Freq Magazine, and Beatroute. She is an elected board member for CJSW 90.9 FM and hosts the electronic program Mint Condition every Friday morning. Arcand is also an award-winning producer and editor-in-chief of the quarterly print publication REVERIE Magazine

1 “The DJs in Calgary are killing it right now, thanks in part to Controller Club's DIY approach to platforming new talent. They lead workshops for beginners, experienced DJs looking to refine their skills, and anyone wanting to connect with the community. Artists can showcase their work through downtown livestreams and events at various venues across the city.”

2 “I always discover something intriguing at Shelf Life Books. The staff recommendations are consistently outstanding, and their curated selection never disappoints. The adorable merchandise (those tote bags!) is just a bonus.”

3 “Loophole Coffee Bar is home to one of Calgary's best iced London Fog lattes and an incredible DIY music venue. Bookburner Productions deserves special recognition for curating exceptional lineups here, bringing punk and hardcore acts like Life in Vacuum, Leon's Getting Larger, Runt, and New York's Godseyes to incredible spaces like Loophole.” [learn more about them on page 28!]

4 “Dickens. This venue remains one of Calgary's few spaces that can throw numerous parties and host drag shows, including viewing parties for one of my favourite reality TV competition shows of all time, Dragula. From the iconic Hang the DJ nights to Terminus Music Festival — one of Canada's rare synth-wave festivals with a lineup just announced for July — to hosting artists like Alice Longyu Gao during the Sled Island Music and Arts Festival.”

“My go-to spot for both new vinyl and used gems is Sloth Records. My collection has grown with everything from local heroes like Sunglaciers to current releases like FKA Twigs' Eusexua. Don't forget to hit them up on Record Store Day in April, where you can find exclusive releases typically unavailable elsewhere because they fly off the shelves so fast.” —E.P

CHRIS CORVAN

Chris Corvan cut his teeth in the film industry, surrounded by storytelling and production. After stepping away to focus on family, he reignited his passion for creativity — not just for himself but for others. He founded The Creative Catalyst Café, a thriving 150-member community where artists, writers, filmmakers, and musicians collaborate. Expanding his efforts, he launched a live monthly show at Congress Coffee Co., blending interviews with live music performances. "I believe in collaboration amongst the arts," he says. Corvan is building a space through his work where Calgary’s creatives can connect, grow, and thrive.

"I’m a huge fan of checking out local coffee shops. Congress Coffee Co. is my go-to. Amazing coffee, great atmosphere, and [they’re] all about supporting creatives.”

2 "Red’s Diner is fantastic. I’m a big fan of breakfast any time of day — if it’s a breakfast spot, I’m there."

3 "Contemporary Calgary is absolutely amazing and something everyone needs to check out at least once. Especially if you're new in town and want to get the vibe on what creative is in Calgary, it's a great place to start."

4 Midnight Gossip is on fire right now — cinematic ultra-pop, lots of festival gigs, and you’ll hear them on X92.9 and CJSW."

5 "Devonian Gardens is a perfect hideaway in the middle of downtown. It's gorgeous and one of my favourite spots to take visitors." —A.W

PHOTO: HEATHER SAITZ

TEA FANNIE

Meet one of the unstoppable forces in Mohkinstsis/Calgary. In just six years, Tea Fannie has already been featured on Sirius XM, Virgin Radio, iHeartRadio, the Edmonton Journal, Global News, Big Kitty Magazine, and more. Her latest project, dubbed It's All Love and released last September, helped pave her way in the industry as she built a name for herself. She has opened for artists like Planet Giza and always fosters collaboration within Calgary’s burgeoning hip-hop scene.

“If you're free on Monday nights, step into the Tribe Artist Society Monday Rap Night. No matter what level, it's always a fun vibe, sharpening skills and learning new ones. They do their nights the same way each week, so it's up to you when you want to drop in.”

“How to live like a star hack: I love going to the VIP Theatre solo. I think they think sometimes I'm a critic or something, but also it's the VIP treatment, so you get treated very well. You can order from your seat and can order a drink, too, if you feel so inclined. I love getting a shrimp cocktail and a rum and coke — yes, two cocktails. I feel like there's a joke in there somewhere.”

“Hit the road! Wow, does Calgary ever have some sites to see close by! I love hitting the road with a buddy, good music and driving to a small waterfall or the dino ruins. There's also some cute little restaurants and even a speakeasy in Canmore if you go out that way.”

“Take the C-Train. I know it's not always a pleasant experience, but hear me out. If you get a nice, cozy window spot, throw on your noise-cancelling headphones, and just ride, you can experience the city in a different way. I especially enjoy the Blue Line heading west.”

“I love hitting up the Alcove Centre for the Arts! There's so many different things to do there — whether you want to explore a new art or sharpen a skill you already have, it's the spot to be.” —K.S

CALEIGH CROW

Métis playwright, director, actor, and overall theatre rat Caleigh Crow had to learn to love her hometown. For her, Calgary is made best by the creative talents who live here and reject the status quo to be unabashedly themselves. She discovered at a young age that drama and performance felt second nature to her, more so than any of her school subjects. Just last year, her play There Is Violence and There Is Righteous Violence and There Is Death, or the Born-Again Crow won the Governor General’s Literary Award for Drama. The award is not only an honour for Crow, but she feels it comes with the responsibility to uphold the Canadian theatre landscape and be one of the unabashed talents for others to look up to.

“Calgary Momo House. It is deep in the northeast, northeast of the airport. They make these bomb momos like I have never experienced. It was my first momo experience, and I was so impressed. I won't even try to explain the flavours; they must be experienced.”

“I love the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. I used to go all the time with my mom, and it's the kind of thing where I have enough knowledge that I can enjoy it, but I can also pick a random concert and just know I'm gonna get a unique experience.”

“I think Calgary also has some really unique [outdoor] opportunities to walk around and enjoy our beautiful rivers. I love The Confluence and where the Fort is. I like walking around there and around St. Patrick's Island.”

“I'm a gamer … I love Minecraft. I really feel like Minecraft is proof-of-concept for video games, as a medium. Every aspect of it, I love.”

“Over the summer, I read a book called Wild Theater by Martin Morrow. It’s a book about One Yellow Rabbit Performance Theatre … According to this book, people would say, ‘How could you have this avant-garde theatre festival in Calgary? It's full of all these stuffy corporate people,’ and they would say, ‘Well, we do it every year, and people come.’ That’s something I agree with.”

—M.O

PHOTO: GRACIOUS CHAOS PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: BB COLLECTIVE

$POSITIONS

A blue-collar Midwesterner attempts to save his family from the throes of poverty by investing their savings into speculative cryptocurrencies.

EEPHUS

As an imminent construction project looms over their beloved baseball field, two New England recreational teams face off one last time.

LUNATIC: THE LUNA VACHON STORY

LUNATIC profiles the complex life of famed WWF women’s wrestler Luna Vachon who, while battling for glory inside the wrestling ring, was also battling her inner demons outside the ring.

SOMETHING BETTER CHANGE

The story of D.O.A. frontman Joey “Shithead” Keithley, who transitioned from a punk activist musician to politician when he was elected for the Green Party in Burnaby, BC.

THIS TOO SHALL PASS

A sheltered 16-year-old feels the walls closing in by his strict Mormon upbringing. Desperate for autonomy, he rebels by skipping town with friends for a weekend in Canada.

FILM HIGHLIGHTS

ART SPIEGELMAN: DISASTER IS MY MUSE

An exploration of the life and career of cartoonist Art Spiegelman and the impact of his Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel MAUS, the story of his parents’ survival of the Holocaust, and his own struggle to come to terms with this legacy.

Through a series of vignettes – some tragic, some funny, all a little bizarre – this animated feature doc explores the bond between two half brothers, one Indigenous, one white, spanning bustling 1980s Toronto to the present day isolated First Nations community of Shamattawa.

MOVE YA BODY: THE BIRTH OF HOUSE

Out of the underground dance clubs on the South Side of Chicago, a group of friends turn a new sound into a global movement.

THE BLACK HOLE

Residents of an apartment block district long for a better life, but when a black hole appears mysteriously in a lilac bush, they have to face aliens, a giant spider and an Austrian in breeches..

Two struggling mothers grapple with unfulfilled expectations and societal pressures. As they navigate their roles , one woman’s unexpected affair sparks a reevaluation of their lives and priorities.

CHEECH & CHONG’S LAST MOVIE

Exploring their five-decade career performing stand-up, making records, and starring in hit films, CHEECH & CHONG’S LAST MOVIE covers their lives, comedy partnership, and lasting influence on pop culture.

FOUND FOOTAGE FEST: 20TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW

Joe Pickett (The Onion) and Nick Prueher (The Colbert Report) are back with an allnew guided tour celebrating two decades of their greatest VHS finds.

BROKEN BIRD

Sybil is a quiet, creative soul, with a love of taxidermy and poetry. When she unexpectedly falls in love, her world is turned upside down and she faces a new tragic challenge the only way she knows how: quiet, creative destruction.

THE GESUIDOUZ

A misfit horror-themed rock band relocates to rural Japan, determined to compose the ultimate punk anthem.

CLOWN IN A CORNFIELD: CLOSING FILM

Kettle Springs is already dying — until Frendo, a symbol of the town’s success, decides to speed up the process. Blood will spill, and no one is safe. CUFF 2025 Closing Night Film!

A loyal dog moves to a rural family home with his owner, only to discover supernatural forces lurking in the shadows. As dark entities threaten his human companion, the brave pup must fight to protect the one he loves most.

SATURDAY MORNING ALL-YOU-CANEAT-CEREAL CARTOON PARTY!

In this all-new program, you’ll see both faves and obscurities spanning the ‘30s through the ‘90s, all punctuated with vintage commercials, PSAs and station IDs! Jammies Encouraged! ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT CEREAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THE UGLY STEPSISTER

A sinister twist on the classic Cinderella story, THE UGLY STEPSISTER follows Elvira as she prepares to earn the prince’s affection at any cost.

ENDLESS COOKIE

GOOD BOY

TWO WOMEN

Scenesters

JEFF D’SILVA

A prominent figure in Calgary's stand-up scene, Jeff D’Silva hosts "Jeff's Night Out" and "Sit Down Shut Up Stand Up Comedy," showcases for local stand-up, improv, and sketch comedians. Beyond crafting jokes, D'Silva is a semi-professional skateboarder and a dedicated advocate for anti-racism initiatives. He's also ventured into writing, acting, and directing, with credits on projects like The Dessert and TNT FUBAR

1 “McDonald’s in Walmart Supercentre. Most Calgarians know McDonald’s, but only true locals know the hidden gem at the back of Walmart off Macleod. Here, they’ll give you any amount of sauce with no up-charge. I once got 10 sauces for 10 McNuggets!”

2 “Village Square Leisure Centre. Most tourists come to Calgary for the Thunder Run, but the true attraction at this world-renowned wave pool is the large rope tied to the ceiling of the facility. Teenagers use it to swing into the deep end to impress their friends and the ladies.”

3 “Stuffy Riders at Westbrook Mall. When people land in Calgary, the first thing they often do is take an Uber to

Westbrook Mall to check out Stuffy Riders, and for good reason! For only 20 bucks for half an hour, you can ride a motorized giant plush animal around a mostly empty mall that I think is just kept open to provide a place for local transit workers to take their lunch breaks.”

4 “I haven’t read a ton of local authors, but I highly recommend reading all of the milkshake flavours on the menu out loud at Peter’s Drive-In and asking the attendant, ‘Hmmmm, is the *insert milkshake flavour* any good?’”

6 “Old Spaghetti Factory. Many consider this to be called the ‘New Old Spaghetti Factory’ in contrast to the ‘Old Spaghetti Factory’ that used to be beside Eau Claire, but since that one shut down, we can just call it the ‘Old Spaghetti Factory.’ All of the things you love are here: unlimited bread loaves, free spumoni ice cream, crayons for the kids, and a big scale you can step on to weigh yourself before and after you eat your meal to see how much spaghetti has become part of your body.”

—E.P

KATHRYN SMITH

With a focus on collective creation and community development, Kathryn Smith is a queer and trans theatre director, designer and creator who has worked across Canada for the past decade. Since 2022, Smith has been the artistic director of Verb Theatre, which focuses on producing “tomorrow’s theatre today.” In that time, they have produced award-winning, high-quality productions with companies from Calgary, Edmonton, and Toronto, and they have been programming work for and for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Beyond their role with Verb, Smith is a member of the Mudfoot Theatre Collective and an award-winning singer-songwriter under the name KP Smith.

“For a fancy outing, Ten Foot Henry. Amazing veggie-forward dishes, family-style sizes and awesome atmosphere. For casual eating: Tamarind Vietnamese. Vegetarian and vegan, which is so fresh and flavourful.”

“The Calgary bike path system is incredible. You can easily spend a whole day riding in and out of the city. I suggest biking to Annie's Cafe in Fish Creek Park.”

“For kids and families, check out Quest Theatre or Calgary Young People’s Theatre. Camps, productions, classes, and amazing people.”

“When we're out of ideas, my partner and I will pick a neighbourhood and spend the evening wandering. Kensington, Inglewood and 17th Avenue all have amazing food options, art galleries and local stores to check out.”

“The Caspian Supermarket in Parkdale, an Iranian and Middle Eastern market featuring fresh baked bread, a ton of spices, and so many cooking goods like pomegranate molasses and rose water.”

—K.S

PHOTO: JACKIE D'SILVA

PHOTO: MIKE TAN

Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025

- Pre-show Networking: 6:30pm | Jack Singer Lobby

- Performance & Awards Presentation: 7:30pm | Jack Singer Concert Hall

- After-Party: 9:15pm | Jack Singer Lobby Tickets are available at

KATHERINE PENHALE Scenesters

Last October, Katherine Penhale officially took on the reins as the executive director of the Calgary International Film Festival. Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Penhale moved to Calgary after graduating 11 years ago. She started with CIFF as a venue coordinator, a role she discovered through connections she made in the Calgary arts community, particularly in the poetry scene. As executive director, she oversaw the festival through its first run without screenings at the Eau Claire Cineplex. Counting down the days to the next run, Penhale is eager to expand the festival and its new community-building constellation format.

1 “Alberta Print Makers puts on an amazing 'Intro to Screen Printing' classes. It's a super small studio. It's so hands-on, you get a full demonstration, and they fill up super fast. I waited on a waiting list for probably six months to get into a class, and it was worth every single minute of waiting. I came out with beautiful screen prints. I got to learn a new skill, engage with their folks … It was awesome.”

2 “I love Begonia Bakehouse. It's one of my favourite bakeries. I live in the Beltline, and the CIFF offices are in the Beltline. I'm a five-minute walk to work, and I'm about a 10-minute walk to Begonia. I love going there on Saturday mornings, picking up a loaf of bread, getting a coffee, getting a caramel cinnamon bun — it's great.”

3 “AtlasofImprobablePlaces:AJourneytotheWorld's Most Unusual Corners, by Travis Elborough. I picked it up, and I've really enjoyed it, especially as I've been thinking so much about how space affects our experience and makes a really big difference in our communities.”

4 “Noah Kahan has been on my playlist. I wish I had a cooler, more niche answer, but I don't.”

5 “I get to walk into the other room here as soon as we're off this call and go watch the screener for [the movie] A NiceIndianBoy. I am already hearing everyone laughing from the other room, so I'm really excited to go and watch it.”

—M.O

ISHITA SINGLA

As the founder of Madhuban Performing Arts, Ishita Singla has created a thriving space for South Asian dance, music and theatre while empowering artists from diverse backgrounds. Her productions range from sold-out musicals to high-energy festival performances, and she has injected South Asian culture into Calgary, fostering inclusion and creativity. A passionate advocate for the arts, Singla ensures that opportunities are accessible to underrepresented communities, and her dedication has earned her accolades, including Avenue's Top 40 Under 40. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, she remains committed to storytelling, uplifting communities and making art inclusive for all.

1 “The Grand is always bringing unique shows to the city … and is a part of Calgary’s history and heritage. It’s also home to Madhuban’s original productions every year, making it a special place for me.

“Pathway Momos [offers] a perfect blend of my favourite comfort foods: poutine and momos. It’s the best of both worlds — delicious, cozy and a must-try!”

“I’ve watched many Alberta Theatre Projects shows over the years, and they continue to inspire me when directing my own theatre productions. Their innovative storytelling is a must-experience for any theatre lover.”

4 “Evergreen Community Spaces — This place is bustling with diverse dance and performing arts classes. Whether you're looking to learn a new style or simply immerse yourself in movement, there’s always something exciting happening here.”

“More than just books, the Central Library has become a hub for community events, artistic gatherings and creative workshops. Plus, it’s an absolutely stunning, welcoming space to explore.” —K.S

PHOTO: CELINA VIDES

PHOTO: JARED SYCH FOR AVENUE MAGAZINE

MASON JENKINS

Calgary’s self-proclaimed “himbo-for-hire,” Mason Jenkins is a multi-talented trans artist and community advocate. After reading the sage advice that “girls like guitar players” in a Chicken Soup for the Soul book, he taught himself guitar as a preteen. This eventually led to him co-founding The Corey Hotline, a three-piece band you can find rocking regularly around the city. Though he pursued a career as a teacher, burnout and fortunate connections prompted him to transfer to professional tattooing. Working out of Blackbird Electric Tattoo, Jenkins’ practice is to approach the American Traditional style from a non-traditional, un-tough guy, inclusive perspective. He’s also made a name for himself performing burlesque under the moniker Tomboy Selleck.

1 “The greatest wrestling show you can see in Calgary is Go-Go Battles at Dickens. It's a queer, feminist, WWF-style, Glow-inspired wrestling show that’s very comedy-centric and wrestling-secondary.”

2 “Class Clown Burgers in Mission … I love that they've been absolutely slammed since they opened.”

3 “At The Attic, they have a Sunday show called Laugh Loft. I believe the tagline for it is, ‘The only comedy show in Calgary where you won't be hate crime’d,’ which I really appreciate.”

4 “17th Ave Thrift … they're a not-for-profit and they donate to animal rescue.”

5 “Local Calgary music! I always have to share that Thomas Thomas is incredible, and they will be opening up for Chilliwack coming up, which is amazing.”

—M.O

NEW EXHIBIT ON NOW

Celebrating the international pop-punk legends. TICKETS AT STUDIOBELL.CA/WHATS-ON

Explore the evolution of the piano on its 325 th anniversary. Experience rare pianos in action with live demonstrations on weekends.

NEW EXHIBIT ON NOW TICKETS AT STUDIOBELL.CA/WHATS-ON

EXHIBITION EXTENDED UNTIL MAY 19, 2025

A nostalgic tribute to The Beatles’ transformative years upon arriving in Canada for the first time. Revisit the frenzied excitement that swept the nation.

CANADIAN MUSIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

APRIL 26 | STUDIO BELL

PHOTO:

BY MARCUS OGDEN

From scrappy Alberta-based productions to indie genre flicks, big-name documentaries, and eccentric event programming, the 2025 Calgary Underground Film Festival is championing everything and offering something for everyone.

“Our goal is to always try to put together the best possible festival we can,” says Brenda Lieberman, festival director of CUFF. “Whether it's a rom-com or documentary, we like to fit it all in.”

CUFF is recognized as Western Canada’s premier genre film festival. Their mission is to raise the status of Calgary’s cultural footprint while also bringing in offbeat unconventional films from around the world. This year’s festival is screening solely out of the city’s beloved Globe Cinema, and is expanded to 11 days — the largest festival to date. “We're just doing what we still do and what we love to do,” says Lieberman.

Alberta is a hub for the weird and talented: a not-so-commercial centre with many skilled creatives, we lean into outsidership and go against the grain. This is a massive advantage for CUFF as they continue platforming local projects.

“I just think [CUFF is] doing an exceptional job, and they're responsible, in part, for some of the growth that's happening,” says director and producer Mike Peterson. “I have a theory that there's this horror movement here, and it's been going on for the last five-plus years, and it's still building … In hindsight, I think people are going to look at Alberta as having its own sort of horror voice.”

Peterson’s film, Shadow of God, is a standout Calgary-made contribution to the fest. It centres around a priest who returns home to rural Alberta after performing an exorcism that goes wrong. He finds himself faced with demons of his past as he encounters an unexpected family member with a very different kind of supernatural possession. Getting inventive with its genre conventions, the film is a thrilling romp with beyond-surface-level theming that’ll be perfect to see with a lively cinema audience.

CUFF Keeps It Local

at the festival he feels raised him as an aspiring filmmaker. He describes the short as a queer body-swap psycho-drama, and it will be shown as part of the “That Someone Special” shorts package on April 20.

“It's not particularly pushing the envelope in the way some horror movies do,” says Peterson. “The intention isn't to be offensive; it's really to be provocative.”

For those less inclined to horror who still want to support locals, This Too Shall Pass is another noteworthy CUFF selection. This one is directed by Rob Grant, whose previous film, Harpoon, won CUFF’s 2019 Audience Award. Set in the ‘80s, the film follows Mormon high schooler Simon as he and his quirky friends break bad and take a doomed trip across the border as their last hurrah. Both an homage and a critique of John Hughes' coming-of-age comedies, This Too Shall Pass delivers on that nostalgic feeling of youth

while infusing it with a bit of modern edge.

“It's a movie that exists in a world where the characters are aware of John Hughes movies and are trying to recreate the idealistic road trip movie for themselves with disastrous results,” says Grant. “The fact that [Hughes] treats his teenage ensemble as adults with adult problems — I just hope people connect with that.”

CUFF serves as a great launching pad for filmmakers based here. On top of its 48-Hour Movie Making Challenge [more about that on page 24], the festival also makes room in its programming for burgeoning local short projects.

Fledgling Calgary-bred director Zach Green is excited for his short movie, Cancer Szn, to screen

“It's going to be exciting when all the crew gets to see the film for the first time … it's gonna feel like my wedding day, just like a clear sign of growth,” says Green. “This is a film that I've put so much energy and thought and years of practice into, so it's gonna be a milestone for my personal filmmaking journey.”

While international outlets such as Dread Central and MovieMaker Magazine have regarded it as a top festival, CUFF still maintains an all-too-Albertan grassroots vibe in its heart, even in its 22nd run. So get out there and see some homegrown films this year! Calgary’s film scene is thriving, but it doesn’t exist without butts in seats.

The 2025 Calgary Underground Film Festival runs from April 17 to 27. Get tickets at calgaryundergroundfilm.org.

PHOTO: SEBASTIAN BUZZALINO

MORE SCENE PICKS AT CUFF 2025

The Calgary Underground Film Festival delivers the idiosyncratic, the outlandish, the quirky, the unconventional, and the undiscovered cool. But it can be overwhelming! This year’s fest has lots to highlight, but here are some screenings to circle in your flyer, selected by The Scene magazine.

THE GESUIDOUZ

From international festival favourite director Kenichi Ugana, The Gesuidouz is a Japanese film that follows a failing horror-themed rock band as they’re forced to write a hit song to save their careers while stranded in the countryside. The band’s lead, Hanako, believes she’s racing the clock as she approaches 27, the age at which many of her rock heroes died. A winner of the Audience Award at the Montreal Festival du Nouveau Cinema and the Best Feature Film Award at the London International Fantastic Film Festival, this punk rock-fantasy film is a force to be reckoned with.

CHEECH & CHONG'S LAST MOVIE

This documentary traces the meteoric rise of the original stoner-comedy duo Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong. An often proudly cited fact by locals who know, Chong was born in Edmonton and spent most of his upbringing here in Calgary before eventually meeting Marin inside a Vancouver club. Cheech & Chong's Last Movie documents how the pair forged a joint career that spanned 50 years and has run the gamut of comedy, music, and film.

SOMETHING BETTER CHANGE

Another film with music at the forefront, Something Better Change, documents the political activism of Joey Keithley — better known by the moniker “Joey Shithead,” under which he has served as the frontman for the Vancouver punk band D.O.A. since the late ‘70s. In 2018 and 2022, Keithley was elected as a councillor in his hometown of Burnaby, B.C., under the municipal Green Party banner. In the film, Keithley reflects upon how his time as one of Canada’s most notorious rockers has informed his activism and what he brings to the table as a politician. This is a perfect film for those interested in the quirky outlandishness of modern Canuck politics.

CRIME WAVE: 40TH ANNIVERSARY SCREENING

A Canadian cult film, Crime Wave was met with a lukewarm reception when it was released in 1985. In subsequent years, it developed an underground, “If you know, you know” reputation where it’s heralded as one of Canada’s unsung great comedies. A surrealist visual ride, Crime Wave follows a young filmmaker trying desperately to make the next great in-colour crime movie. To celebrate the film’s 40th anniversary, CUFF is hosting a retrospective screening just before the kickoff of the entire festival, with the film’s director, John Paiz, in attendance.

THE UGLY STEPSISTER

CLOWN IN A CORNFIELD

Adam Cesare’s 2020 novel Clown in a Cornfield is a YA novel that also happens to be an excellent slasher horror story … and yes, there’s a spooky clown. For those of us who grew up with Goosebumps and Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, it’s heartwarming to see the tradition of “young horror” alive and well. The film adaptation debuted at SXSW earlier this year to promising reviews, so it’s pretty rad that CUFF is bringing it to the prairies. Director Eli Craig’s filmography includes the excellent slasher-subverting romp Tucker and Dale vs Evil and the supernatural comedy Little Evil. Based on all that, consider this a Scene “can’t miss.”

One of Lieberman’s most anticipated films of this year’s CUFF, The Ugly Step Sister was nominated for the Audience Award for “Best Feature Film” at the Berlin International Film Festival. The film is a grotesque retelling of the Cinderella story, which focuses on the perspective of Elvira, the titular ugly step-sister of the fairytale. The body horror-comedy, which marks the directorial debut for Emilie Blichfeldt, has been met with whisperings of greatness and will surely be precisely the kind of movie devoted CUFF-goers want to see. If you loved The Substance last year, this is the flick for you.

FOUND FOOTAGE FESTIVAL: 20TH ANNIVERSARY

Considered a CUFF staple by many, the Found Footage Festival returns after its absence in 2023. Hosted by Joe Pickett and Nick Prueher, the Found Footage Festival is an event wherein the two showcase the best, funniest, and strangest clips from their collection of over 13,000 miscellaneous VHS tapes. Infomercials, recordings of forgotten gatherings, instructional videos, workout tapes, and creations of mad hobbyists who happened to access a camera; The Found Footage Festival is a celebration of the otherwise discarded. This time around, it’s their 20th anniversary tour, and they’re determined to make the most of it.

LONG DAYS, SHORT FILMS

BY SHERI BLOCK

Making a movie can take months — or even years — to complete. But for the teams participating in CUFF and NUTV’s 48 Hour Movie Making Challenge, two days is all they’ve got. Every part of the process — from writing and shooting to editing and adding music — must be completed within 48 hours. “I’m always amazed and inspired by what people can pull off in 48 hours because I know personally on the other end of

it how scary and daunting the process can be,” says Cameron Macgowan, a Calgary-based filmmaker who did the challenge years ago before becoming a lead programmer for CUFF.

While he describes his own experience as “intense” with very little sleep, he says others thrive under the pressure. “If you’re ready for it, have fun with those types of restrictions and use them to your advantage, you can really turn out a good movie.”

The 22nd Calgary Underground Film Festival, which showcases the best in international independent cinema, takes place April 17 to 27 at Globe Cinema. The completed shorts from

“I’m always amazed and inspired by what people can pull off in 48 hours because I know personally on the other end of it how scary and daunting the process can be.”

CAMERON MACGOWAN, FILMMAKER & CUFF LEAD PROGRAMMER

the 48 Hour Movie Making Challenge (if they’re submitted on time) will be screened in front of a live audience and jury on the final night of the festival.

Some coveted prizes are on the line, including $500 for the winning film, and bragging rights. The challenge is open to anyone — from firsttime filmmakers to experienced directors. “We have weekend warriors who really just love the challenge and the event and getting together with their friends, but Calgary has become such a burgeoning film city,” says Macgowan. “I’d say over half the teams are professional filmmakers. It's a really nice chance for emerging filmmakers to get their feet wet and to get involved in their local film community.”

Previously limited to 24 teams, the challenge has opened two more spots this year due to high demand. Teams have from 7 p.m. on Friday, March 28 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 30 to complete their short, which can range from two to five minutes long.

Macgowan says that most teams write Friday night, shoot Saturday and edit Sunday, while others do it all as they go. Each team is given a genre, prop and a line of dialogue they must incorporate into the film, which helps ensure that nothing can be prepared ahead of time.

In 2024, Comptrol, a biopic that had to include a Pop-Tart and a line about pussy willows, took home both the Jury Award for top film and the Audience Choice Award. Made by a returning team called Good Neighbours, the short film featured a city comptroller embattled in a personal crisis. While they couldn’t pre-plan anything, the team knew they wanted a high-energy film with plenty of improvising. “Because we were using

the familiar genre of a biopic, [and] cramming all of the clichés and tropes into it, it felt familiar to an audience,” says Nick Johnson, a Calgary-based writer, director, and animator who co-starred in Comptrol.“ It was easy to connect with them through that [and] then subvert it by making it a parody and a satire.”

He says his team had a lot of fun making the movie — and they even managed to get some sleep while making it. Screening the short live made the experience even more special. “To hear the audience laughing throughout and quoting it after … It was really rewarding and exciting. We got the exact reaction we were hoping for.”

Johnson says the challenge is a good launching pad for making future films. He has since directed a full-length animated feature called Sunburnt Unicorn, which premiered at the 2024 Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France and screened at Chinook Theatre during the 2024 Calgary International Film Festival.

“The experience is invaluable. It teaches you so much … it gives you the confidence to keep making these things,” says Johnson, whose team is looking forward to taking part again this year.

Macgowan is also excited to see the new and returning teams' ideas for the 2025 challenge. And with the event selling out yearly, the audience is undoubtedly as well. “It’s the party of the festival because it’s all local people celebrating each other’s work, but there’s also a friendly competitive element that adds a nice energy to the room,” Macgowan says. “It’s a sweaty long haul that no one regrets attending.”

The 2025 edition of the 48 Hour Movie Making Challenge will screen the completed short films at the Globe Cinema on Sunday, April 27.

PHOTO: CAITLIND R.C. BROWN

THEATRE’S LAUNCHING PAD

THE CALGARY REGION ONE-ACT PLAY FESTIVAL BRINGS BOTH

NEW AND SEASONED ARTISTS TO THE PUMPHOUSE BY ABBEY WHITEHEAD

For one weekend every year, Calgary’s theatre scene gets a little more intimate, a little more daring, and a whole lot more exciting.

The One Act Play Festival isn’t just a showcase — it’s a creative playground where emerging and seasoned artists bring bold, bite-sized stories to life. Hosted by Pumphouse Theatre in partnership with the Alberta Drama Festival Association, the festival serves as both a competition and a learning opportunity.

“It gives young artists confidence and puts them in the sights of professionals,” says Troy Couillard, Pumphouse Theatre’s facilities supervisor. “It’s a great entry point for emerging artists.”

While winners from regional festivals across Alberta advance to the provincial level, the festival is just as much about growth as it is about competition. Participants gain hands-on experience producing and performing their own

work in a professional venue — all at a low cost of entry.

“It’s a really cool launching pad,” Couillard adds. “It teaches them things that they might not necessarily learn in their university programs, like how to work with different venues. It’s an excellent learning opportunity and a really good confidence booster.”

By providing a stage, lighting, and technical support in a low-pressure environment, the festival allows artists to gain practical skills that aren’t always covered in academic programs.

Many past participants have gone on to produce independent work or join established theatre companies, proving the festival’s lasting impact.

For Trish Clark, the festival was an opportunity to dive into a passion she discovered later in life. She first explored playwriting in 2019 and soon after began auditioning for community theatre. In addition to her work with the festival, Clark is also involved with a seniors acting club.

“I was part of a playwriting class that was

SPRINGTIME SHOWS AT THE PUMPHOUSE

For nearly 50 years, Pumphouse Theatre has been a cornerstone of Calgary’s performing arts scene, hosting more than 35 productions each year. From large, established theatre companies to emerging independent collectives, it provides a stage for artists of all levels to share their work.

April brings an exciting lineup to Pumphouse, with diverse productions from Calgary’s vibrant theatre community.

GUYS AND DOLLS

April 11 to 19

Misfit Theatre YYC

Directed by Jeremy Walker and Krista Willott

A bonafide Broadway classic, Guys and Dolls is an epic screwball musical of love, gambling, and mixups against the backdrop of ‘20s New York City.

supposed to last four weeks, but it ended up lasting 14,” Clark says. “By the end, I had written a whole script that ended up getting produced.”

Now returning to the festival with a new comedy, she’s excited to perform and connect with other artists. “It’s structured, but it’s also incredibly supportive,” she says. “There’s space for everyone to learn and grow.”

Beyond being a stepping stone for aspiring theatre-makers, the One Act Play Festival celebrates the courage to create. Whether participants are new to the stage or experienced performers, it offers a chance to take risks, share stories, and be part of Alberta’s thriving theatre community.

The festival also embraces unique and unconventional productions. A past production, Mudflatter, consisted of a series of monologues that seemed challenging to market to audiences.

“It's very difficult to say come see a series of monologues, but the One Act Festival put it on,” says Sya Sen, a festival participant. “It was

EVERY BRILLIANT THING

April 10 to 19

Verb Theatre

Directed by Kathryn Smith

This uplifting one-woman play is written by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe. It's also directed by one of our ‘25 Scenesters!

THE MCADO

April 25 to May 10

Morpheus Theatre

wonderful, and it's been such a hit.” The festival’s open-minded approach helped it succeed, leading to a recent performance in Canmore.

“Having the opportunity to work with a variety of Calgarians that are so open-minded about the types of shows we bring on stage is great,” says Sen. “It’s very rewarding to be able to bring anything onto the stage.”

For writers like Sen, it’s a chance to see their work on stage, and refine their craft based on what resonates with viewers. Sen will present a new show, Hometown, at this year's festival.

“It helps us see how the audience reacts and what works, what laughs and what people engage with and react to,” says Sen. “This is our third year participating, and the main draw has been just the opportunity to showcase our work alongside other Calgarians.”

From April 3 to 5, the One Act Play Festival brings eight one-act plays to the stage, showcasing a diverse mix of local talent. Tickets can be bought online at pumphousetheatre.ca.

Directed by Sean Anderson Gilbert & Sullivan’s Mikado has been transported to the highlands of Scotland with this community theatre show. But don’t worry: the libretto is still the same!

PRESCRIPTION: MURDER

May 9 to 17

Workshop Theatre

Directed by Hamish Crawford and Ron Brouwer

Do you love Columbo? Then you’ve got to check out the play that inspired the TV show, a classic whodunnit with a familiar detective at the centre of it all.

PHOTO: SABRINA MUELLER

Victor Mitchell Theatre, Pumphouse

Doug Smith: Wild Wolves of Yellowstone

Jack Singer Concert Hall at Arts Commons

Loophole Coffee Bar

CAFFEINE, ARTS AND COMMUNITY LIVE ON THE EDGE OF DOWNTOWN

BY MARY-LYNN WARDLE

Tucked away steps from the C-Train station in the west end of downtown, Loophole Coffee Bar is one of Calgary’s best-kept secrets.

The idea for the space took shape when three friends attended an experimental jazz show at Sigla Books. They decided they wanted to create a cultural and social hub to support Calgary’s burgeoning music and arts scene. In fact, that evening, they shook hands with Sigla’s owner David Sidjak regarding opening Loophole in the adjacent space. The vision came to fruition in December 2019 when Loophole opened just a stone's throw away from Dickens. “As Sigla Books and Loophole are operating in the same building, coffee lovers and

book enthusiasts are finding the best of both worlds one door apart,” says Jordan Vannier, who co-owns Loophole with friends Mark Reynolds and Sean Donohue. “In the summertime, you often see people sitting on the patio sipping on a fresh drink while enjoying a good read. We love to see people coming in with a pile of newly collected books.” He adds it’s important to know both businesses keep different, albeit partly overlapping operational hours.

But sitting outside soaking up caffeine and literature is only part of what makes Loophole a treasured spot for its close-knit, welcoming community. At the back of the shop, hidden behind curtains, you'll find an intimate performance space that lights up in the evenings. On any given night, you might come across a listening party for works in progress, where feedback is

offered, and high fives are common. DJ nights happen frequently, as do exhibition openings, poetry readings, and punk rock/noise/indie/insert-your-genre-of-choice-here shows. Producers will meet up at Loophole so that folks can share what they are working on. And that’s just a taste of their events programming. Rotating visual art exhibitions adorn the entire space, lending an authentically eclectic feel and connecting patrons even further with Calgary’s art scene.

“Though being a venue wasn’t the original plan, we’ve always wanted to create a social and cultural hub,” Vannier says. “Calgary has a lot of talented artists and performers who deserve to be known. Very quickly after opening Loophole, we organized our first parties, mostly art openings. In 2022, we had the opportunity to expand the footprint of the space, and we thought we all

needed a place to unite in art, culture and music. We are trying humbly to do our part to put local artists on the map.”

He highlights some upcoming events, which are posted weekly on Instagram. “Public Assembly System on April 17 is a Calgary harsh noise experimental collective. We can’t describe ‘experimental;’ what is certain is that you will be on a sound journey. Calgary techno label Echo Locations offers 'Reflexions' on April 27, a curated electronic night with local and out-oftown DJ talents. Get ready to dance!” And after hosting some of Sled Island’s rowdiest all-ages shows last year, Loophole is ready to do it again from June 18 to 22 as a bumpin’ way to kick off summer.

Vannier also points to Loophole’s coffee offerings, whether you enjoy them inside the shop,

PHOTO: NATHAN ILES

QUICK FACTS

ADDRESS: 1040 8 Ave. S.W.

HOURS: Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you’re hitting a concert or DJ, it’s almost always after closing hours.

PARKING: Streetside parking out front, if you’re really lucky. We recommend getting here by train, bike, or two feet rather than driving.

CAPACITY: 55 people.

VIBE: Artsy, cozy, and grungey (but in a hip way, not a gross way).

FOOD RECCS: The croissants and pastries are excellent and come courtesy of Butter Block & Co. But if you’re craving something a bit more hearty, Billy’s Pizza is a short walk away for a greasy slice. It's an excellent option if you’re

on the deck, or grab-and-go from the street-facing service window. “We are still serving our Loophole Blend, locally roasted by The Roasterie. In our opinion, The Roasterie is the best coffee roaster in town. Fresh Butter Block & Co pastries can be found at Loophole every day, including their new ube cheesecake," says Vannier.

When pressed for his favourite order, Vannier says, “A black and short Americano with a heated butter croissant is always a winning combo!” And while he is focused on the future and how Loophole can continue to promote and support Calgary’s musical and cultural scene, he does have some cherished memories of the space. “There are a lot

at a loud show and need a brief break from the glorious chaos.

DRINK RECCS: The Vietnamese coffee is next level, and if you’re at a show in the evening, they usually serve delicious brews from Ol' Beautiful.

CONSIDERATIONS: Loophole can get pretty warm in summertime if there are lots of people inside, so dress accordingly. It’s also an intimate space, so earplugs are a must if you’re at a concert. At the time of writing, no formal stage was installed. Performers set up on the floor, which makes the audience feel even more connected.

GO HERE IF: You need a mid-day caffeine boost, you’re taking your new artist squeeze on a first date, or you want somewhere quiet to read the last few chapters of Crime and Punishment

of good ones, but in a nutshell, [there’s] our opening day; some long after-hours hang-outs with our patrons; the first parties of all the new collectives; and a friend proposing on our patio!”

In summary of Loophole’s current place on its journey, Vannier says, “We would like to highlight that Calgary has a growing and amazing music and cultural scene. Be it at Loophole or in other venues, many great performances and festivals are happening. We believe cultivating a creative environment creates a better place to live in.”

Visit loophole-coffee-bar.com and their Instagram profile for upcoming events: @loopholecoffeebar