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2 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
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DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 3
Enchanted Nights at Bloedel Bring your imagination and explore the whimsical wonders inside the Bloedel Conservatory. Walk through a miniature world of artisan fairy and sprite villages with magical lights, holiday music and live entertainment set amongst the dome’s tropical plants and exotic birds. The fun continues outside on the Queen Elizabeth Park plaza. Grab a treat, take a pony ride and snap a selfie at the highest viewpoint in the city!
December 4 to January 3* 4 to 9pm daily Queen Elizabeth Park vancouver.ca/enchantednights | #enchantednights
*Closed Christmas Day 4 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
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All advertised prices include taxes & fees. Conditions apply apply. Ex: Vancouver Vancouver. All advertised prices include taxes & fees. Air only prices are per person for return travel unless otherwise stated. Package, cruise, tour, rail & hotel prices are per person, based on double occupancy for total length of stay unless otherwise stated. All-inclusive vacations include air. pp=per person. Prices are for select departure dates and are accurate and subject to availability at advertising deadline, errors and omissions excepted, and subject to change. Taxes & fees due in destination are additional and include, but not limited to, local car rental charges & taxes, one-way rental drop fees which are to be paid upon arrival, resort fees & charges, tour ‘kitty’, airline baggage fees and cruise gratuities. †We will beat any written quoted airfare by $1. Additional important conditions apply. For full terms and conditions visit flightcentre.ca/lowestairfareguarantee. BC REG: #HO2790 Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #40009178, return undeliverable Canadian addresses to The Georgia Straight, 1701 West Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. V6J 1Y3
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 5
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Photos are for illustrative purposes only. Pricing in effect Thursday, December 3 to Thursday December 10, 2015. Overwaitea Food Group LP, a Jim Pattison business. Proudly BC Owned and Operated.
6 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
CONTENTS
70 OFF ski $ 199 169 snowboard $ 199
Winter clothing Clothing
New Westminster. Dustin Hogan photo.
9
UP TO
%
packages
TECHNOLOGY
Vancouver entrepreneur Daniel Eberhard heads up a virtual bank called Koho that is working with established financial players to eliminate fees for all of its members. > BY CHARLIE SMITH
[skis, bindings, boots]
FROM
packages
FROM
[snowboard, bindings, boots]
16
GETAWAYS
Sometimes people travel to Tofino in winter to watch the storms, but when the sun peeps out, it’s still possible to surf the waves. > BY GAIL JOHNSON
19
MOVIES
As if its industry wasn’t impressive enough, half of the films at this year’s Vancouver Turkish Film Festival were made by women. > BY ADRIAN MACK
27
COVER
Forget the mad dash to the mall: the city’s craft markets are in full swing. We have the lowdown on where to find locally crafted felt ornaments, small-batch liquors, and more.
33
START HERE 49 51 39 48 29 70 24 48 65 64 67 34 71 11 46 47
Arts Notes Books The Bottle Dance Health I Saw You Movie Reviews Music Real Estate Red Meat Savage Love Straight to the Pint Straight Stars Straight Talk Theatre Visual Arts
WE ALSO OFFER Junior Ski/Boot Season Lease from $140 s ski lease & rental programs Ski and Board Servicing Available s ski & board servicing 102 W. Broadway (at Manitoba), Vancouver | 604-879-6000
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FOOD
From Vancouver-made chocolate Rudolphs and lemon squares to craft-brewery tours, you don’t have to look far to find inventive, consumable gifts this holiday season.
41
ARTS
UBC Opera is embarking on a pioneering new cultural exchange with Beijing, where the art form appears to be booming.
TIME OUT 53 38 17 26 63
Arts Dine Out Events Movies Music
> BY ALE X ANDER VART Y
57
SERVICES
MUSIC
As it blows up into one of Montreal’s biggest bands, Half Moon Run learns that there’s no point trying to write a radio-friendly smash. > BY MIKE USINGER
66
COVER PHOTO
CLASSIFIEDS
Automotive | Education | Services | Travel Marketplace | Employment | Real Estate Property Rentals | Music | Announcements Callboard | And more...
66 Careers 30 Mind, Body & Soul 64 Real Estate
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Clockwise from left, Crafty Geeks, Westerly Shoes, Honey Gifts, heyhay design, Him Creations, Chez Christophe, Lia Hood, Strathcona Stockings
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 7
French Made
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EZ-Vape Vancouver is located right in the heart of historic and trendy Mount Pleasant, between 14th and 15th avenue. We specialize in Electronic Cigarettes and Personal Vaporizers. Our helpful, friendly and knowledgeable staff are committed to helping you find the perfect device or accessory to get you started on your journey away from traditional cigarettes! Open 7 days a week, come by and check out our monthly specials, and great in-house deals!
murata.ca Discover a wide range of beautiful Japanese tableware and fine gifts all from Japan.
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Instore purchases only. Valid until Dec. 24, 2015.
Tree Chipping: 7th Annual Tree Chipping for the Kids Sunday, Jan. 3, 2016 • 10am – 4pm in Kingsgate Mall’s Lower East Side Parking Lot Your donation goes to Mount Pleasant Elementary’s new community playground, furniture for the school library and equipment for outdoor play.
Mon - Sat: 10-6 Sunday: 11-6
In partnership with Arbutus Tree Service, Kingsgate Mall, Collingwood Community Policing Centre, and the local Parent Advisory Council.
Kingsgate Mall
kingsgatemall.com Help Keep our Community Kids warm this Winter
Kid’s Entertainment Saturday Dec. 12th & 19th
Drop off new mitts, scarves, socks, toques, sweaters, etc.
Toy Maker Showtime, Cookie Decorating, Facepainting, Arts & Crafts
8 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
Tree of Giving until Dec. 23 Pick up a card from the Tree of Giving and help make a needy child’s wishes come true.
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HIGH TECH
Koho banks on millennials > BY C HA RL IE SM I TH
L
ike many millennials, Daniel Eberhard has travelled widely. At the age of 29, he’s already visited 35 countries. He’s trekked through the Himalayas, explored Burma, seen North Africa, and stayed in Central America. In 2010, while he was visiting the Indian city of Varanasi—which is deemed holy by Hindus—a terrorist bomb went off within about 20 metres of where he was standing near the Ganges River. It killed two people, and more than 30 others were injured in an ensuing human stampede. “All of my travels—this experience being one of them—have exposed me to a lot of other cultures in a way that has made me profoundly grateful to have the opportunities that I have,” Eberhard said in an interview at the Georgia Straight office. “We live in a country where we’ll always be relatively comfortable. So it just makes sense to dedicate your life to something that can move the needle.” In Eberhard’s case, moving the needle meant launching a windenergy company in 2010, which was later sold. Now he has cofounded a virtual bank called Koho to help millennials save money. The youthful CEO noted that there are no bricks and mortar attached to his “neobank”, and there also aren’t any service fees. He emphasized that Koho’s agenda is to make banking simpler, more transparent, and more cost-effective. “We partner with a federal financial institution,” Eberhard explained. “So they hold the money. We don’t hold or move money. We’re everything else.” Koho recently announced its partners. The first is People’s Trust Canada, a federally regulated financial institution. Another is Galileo Processing, which enables Koho members to transfer money. The third partner is the credit-card giant Visa. Eberhard said it takes about three minutes for people to create an account on the Koho website. From there, members can deposit money from a pre-existing bank account. “It does everything you do with your normal bank account and there are a number of other features that make it unique,” he said. Koho makes its money off interchange, not banking fees. Every time
The 29-year-old cofounder of Koho, Daniel Eberhard, says the company was created to ensure that people of his generation never have to pay bank fees.
a transaction is processed, Koho gets a small amount from the vendor. It works the same way as when a person uses a credit card to buy groceries. The merchant receives the money minus interchange, which goes to the credit-card company. The owner of the credit card does not have to pay any fee to the vendor. “Effectively, what Koho has done is we’ve removed enough costs so that we can be profitable off interchange alone,” Eberhard said. Koho is a private company and it’s overseen by the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, aka FINTRAC. As such, Koho is required to know its clients in the same way as a brokerage firm or other institutions. “It’s a lot of the things you’d expect a millennial bank to be,” Eberhard said. “It’s social media, it’s grassroots, and it’s referrals through a peer.” He added that the company’s goal is to offer more financial empowerment to young people. He pointed out that the average Canadian pays $185 per year in banking fees, but those levies are waived for those who have sufficient assets, in the eyes of the bank. Millennials tend to be asset-poor, so he believes that they’re likely paying more than the average in annual banking fees. “I think we have a realistic chance to help people pay down
debt sooner, get into homes sooner, and just be in a better financial position,” he said. Koho’s advisory board includes former Coast Capital CEO Lloyd Craig, former Assante Wealth Management CEO Joe Canavan, and former Wikia CEO Gil Penchina. Eberhard said he has benefited enormously from being able to bounce ideas off all three of them. An avid reader, Eberhard also cited Rohinton Mistry’s A Fine Balance and Sam Harris’s Waking Up: A Guide to Spirituality Without Religion as major influences. He also meditates regularly and has read a lot about Stoicism. Eberhard said Koho has six employees, and this month it moved into a larger office at 33 Water Street in Gastown. So where does he see Koho in three to five years? “It’s not unreasonable to have 150,000 to 200,000 users at that point,” he said. “We will be a major player in the banking space in Canada.” He acknowledged that there will always be those who want to enter bank branches. But he also noted that a growing portion of the population no longer cares about that. And if Koho takes off, it will also suggest that people are no longer looking for their bank CEO to be a 60-year-old white guy in a suit. -
The Georgia Straight | Vancouver’s News and Entertainment Weekly | Volume 49 Number 2502 1635 West Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. V6J 1W9 www.straight.com Phone: 604-730-7000 / Fax: 604-730-7010 / e-mail: gs.info@straight.com Display Advertising: 604-730-7020 / Fax: 604-730-7012 / e-mail: sales@straight.com Classifieds: 604-730-7060 / e-mail: classads@straight.com Subscriptions: 604-730-7000 Distribution: 604-730-7087 EDITOR + PUBLISHER Dan McLeod ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Yolanda Stepien GENERAL MANAGER Matt McLeod EDITOR Charlie Smith SECTION EDITORS
Janet Smith (Arts/Fashion) Mike Usinger (Music) Steve Newton (Time Out) Adrian Mack (Movies) Brian Lynch (Books)
EDITORIAL ADMINISTRATOR Doug Sarti ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Gail Johnson, John Lucas, Alexander Varty STAFF WRITERS
Tammy Kwan, Lucy Lau, Travis Lupick, Carlito Pablo, Amanda Siebert, Craig Takeuchi SENIOR EDITOR Martin Dunphy ASSISTANT WEB EDITOR Miranda Nelson COPY CHIEF Amanda Growe EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jennie Ramstad PROOFREADER Pat Ryffranck CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Gregory Adams, Nathan Caddell, David Chau, Jack Christie, Jennifer Croll, Ken Eisner (Movies), George Fetherling, Tara Henley, Michael Hingston, Ng Weng Hoong, Alex Hudson, Kurtis Kolt,
Robin Laurence (Visual Arts), Mark Leiren-Young, John Lekich, Amy Lu, Bob Mackin, Michael Mann, Rose Marcus, Beth McArthur, Verne McDonald, Allan MacInnis, Guy MacPherson, Tony Montague, Kathleen Oliver, Ben Parfitt, Vivian Pencz, Bill Richardson, Gurpreet Singh, Colin Thomas (Theatre), Jacqueline Turner, Jessica Werb, Stephen Wong, Alan Woo ART DEPARTMENT MANAGER
Janet McDonald SENIOR DESIGNER David Ko CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS
Alfonso Arnold, Rebecca Blissett, Trevor Brady, Louise Christie, Emily Cooper, Randall Cosco, Krystian Guevara, Evaan Kheraj, Kris Krug, Tracey Kusiewicz, Kevin Langdale, Shayne Letain, Matt Mignanelli, Mark “Atomos” Pilon, Carlo Ricci, William Ting, Alex Waterhouse-Hayward DIGITAL PRODUCT MANAGER
Chet Woodside LEAD WEB DEVELOPER Jeffrey Li WEB DEVELOPER Tina Luu WEB ADMINISTRATOR Miles Keir
The Georgia Straight is published every Thursday by the Vancouver Free Press Publishing Corp. Copies are distributed free every week throughout Vancouver, Burnaby, North and West Vancouver, New Westminster, and Richmond. International Standard Serial Number ISSN 0709-8995. Subscription rates in Canada $182.00/52 issues (includes GST), $92.00/26 issues (includes GST); United States $379.00/52 issues, $205.00/ 26 issues; foreign $715.00/52 issues, $365.00/26 issues. Contact 604-730-7087 if you wish to distribute free copies of the Georgia Straight at your place of business. Entire contents copyright © 2015 Vancouver Free Press Publishing Corp.
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K.T. Dean, Kristen Dillon, Sandra Oswald
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2010
CHRISTMAS AT THE MARKET
Celebrate with us this Holiday Season... November 27 to December 22 Aunt Leah’s Christmas Tree Lot
Lyndsey Krezanoski
AD SERVICES ASSISTANT Jon Cranny DIRECTOR OF ARTS, ADVERTISING & MARKETING
December 5 & 12 - 12pm to 5pm
SALES MANAGER Sharon Smith ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES
Holiday Story Time, Santa Photos & Kids Crafts, Perform Art Studios Dance Show
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December 6 - 4 - 5pm
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North Vancouver Community Band
Laura Moore Glenn Cohen, Paul Graham, Robyn Marsh, David Pearlman, Andrea Polz, Patrick Ruel, Dawn Searle, Kathy Skelton Navdeep Chhina
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December 6 & 13 - 2 to 3pm
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
Kid’s Cookie Decorating & Crafts
Brenna Woodhouse Travis Bearpark
Dennis Jangula
CREDIT MANAGER Shannon Li ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR
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ACCOUNTING
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December 11 - 6:45 to 7:45pm Ambleside Orchestra
RECEPTION/ PROMOTIONS ASSISTANT
Teagan Dobson
SUBMISSIONS The Straight accepts no responsibility for, and will not necessarily respond to, any submitted materials. All submissions should be addressed to contact@straight.com.
December 11 to 23 Extended Holiday Hours Visit our website for event details, parking info & holiday hours.
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this is a preferable model,” she said. In a telephone interview, Andreea STREET VENDERS UPSET OVER DTES DISPLACEMENT “But it’s really challenging.” Toma, the city’s director of licensing
A survey of more than 50 street venders in the Downtown Eastside reveals that a majority feel they are negatively impacted by new policies the City of Vancouver implemented on November 16. Since that date, the Vancouver Police Department has kept hawkers off the once-crowded unit block of East Hastings Street, which runs between Carrall and Columbia streets. The survey, conducted between November 21 and November 24 by the Carnegie Community Action Project, collected 48 responses to the question: “How have you been impacted by the VPD’s crackdown?” Of those, 38 people, or 79 percent, reported a loss of income. One respondent claimed that the change led them to prostitute themselves. Several others warned that the crackdown on venders will drive low-income people to commit crimes such as robberies. In a telephone interview, Vision Vancouver councillor Andrea Reimer acknowledged concerns for venders’ incomes. “That came through loud and clear,” she said about the survey. Reimer emphasized that the city didn’t just “encourage” venders to move from the unit block but also made two alternative sites available. Those are 62 East Hastings and 501 Powell Street. (A Sunday market on Carrall between Cordova and East Hastings will also continue to operate.) The survey suggests a majority of venders have issues with those sites, mainly, that they do not attract the same volume of foot traffic as the unit block. Reimer noted that very few respondents suggested abolishing either of the new sites. “If there were a way to get the customers up… if you can solve that problem, then
In addition to economic hardship, a number of people said the clearing of the unit block resulted in a loss of community. “I don’t know where everyone is,” one response reads. “I can’t find friends and family. The street market was social and we looked out for each other. I have lost friends.” Doug King is a lawyer with Pivot Legal Society who has publicly denounced the city’s new policy on the unit block as one of “displacement”. “We believe that the ultimate solution is bylaw reform,” he said. “The street-and-traffic bylaw is archaic in how it is worded.” That piece of municipal legislation forbids unauthorized street vending. King suggested the law be amended to limit nuisances related to vending but allow the activity itself. > TRAVIS LUPICK
CITY TO ACT AGAINST OWNERS OF SHODDY SROS
The City of Vancouver has again signalled it is fed up with the Downtown Eastside’s shoddy hotels and landlords’ failures to make timely repairs to those buildings. “The Law Department is looking into other possible means of forcing the owner to immediately remedy the situation as well as possible by-law or Vancouver Charter amendments which may help to alleviate this type of problem in the future,” reads a December 1 memorandum signed by acting city manager Sadhu Johnston. That document pertains to one specific hotel, or SRO (single-room occupancy), as the buildings are commonly referred to. That’s the Lion Hotel at 316 Powell Street. But any bylaw amendment or changes to the Vancouver Charter could apply to all private properties or a large subset.
and property-use inspections, said she’s been informed that problems at the Lion—where many rooms were without heat and hot water for more than two weeks—should be fixed by December 2. But she told the Straight the larger issue remains and that city staff have, therefore, been instructed to look for additional tools that could be applied by the city in its dealings with unresponsive landlords. Toma noted the Vancouver Charter allows the city to enter a private building, make required repairs, and bill a landlord for that work. But to do so, it first must give 60 days’ notice. She argued that in a situation where people are left without heat during the winter, that’s simply too long. “Maybe there is something more that we can do,” she said. “Staff is exploring.” The city has previously attempted to improve conditions in SROs. In September 2014, councillors amended the standards-of-maintenance bylaw to expedite the application of 60-day maintenance orders. According to a city report that was tabled the same month, there are 109 privately owned SROs in Vancouver, plus 26 owned by the province. Together they house an estimated 6,000 low-income people. Another city report states that as many as 2,000 SRO tenants are “severely ill” and receiving no care for mental-health issues or problems related to addiction. > TRAVIS LUPICK
SCHOOL TRUSTEES TO CLARIFY CHAIR DUTIES
Education trustee Patti Bacchus has a problem with the way Fraser Ballantyne behaves as chair of the Vancouver school board. Bacchus, a former chair, says another trustee, Janet Fraser, feels
Antipoverty activist Jean Swanson is one of several saying that a city crackdown on East Hastings Street is reducing poor people’s incomes. Kathy Shimizu photo. the same, and both of them brought motions included in the board’s agenda for Wednesday (December 2) to codify the role and responsibilities of a chair. The school board didn’t need a written policy before because “it’s been fairly well understood what the role of the chairperson is,” according to Bacchus. “What we’ve seen with Fraser Ballantyne is when he does [media] interviews, he often is speaking in opposition to what the board has decided,” Bacchus told the Straight in a phone interview. The Vision Vancouver trustee cited Ballantyne’s criticism of a decision last October not to sell school lands. The measure was proposed by Fraser, a Green trustee, and was supported by Bacchus and her three Vision teammates. Ballantyne and his three Non-Partisan Association colleagues voted against. “He’s also been fairly antagonistic in his chairing board meetings, as opposed to doing it in a fair and
calm way,” Bacchus also said. Reached for comment, Ballantyne said he has no problem with Bacchus and Fraser’s motions to define what a board chair should be doing. “I’m actually embracing it. I think it’s a good idea. I told Janet that, and I’ve actually said that to Patti as well,” Ballantyne told the Straight by phone. Because neither the NPA nor Vision holds a majority on the board—Fraser wields the swing vote—Ballantyne said the chair always has to “walk a razor-thin edge”. As the board “can swing either way”, Ballantyne acknowledged that it is important for a chair to clearly reflect a position adopted through a vote. But having done that, he added, the chair can express his or her personal opinion: “I have the right.” Also included in the December 2 agenda is a motion by Ballantyne’s NPA colleague Stacy Robertson to define the role of a vice chair, the post currently held by Fraser. > CARLITO PABLO
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NEWS
Municipal drug laws vary > B Y TRAVIS L UPICK
L
ate one evening last February, Sarah Bowman was on her way home when she was approached by two RCMP officers at the Edmonds SkyTrain Station in Burnaby. She had just smoked a joint, Bowman recounted in a telephone interview, but she didn’t think she was in real trouble. Bowman explained that she had a doctor’s prescription for the drug and had obtained it with that document at a medicinal-marijuana dispensary in Vancouver. “I saw police officers making the rounds, so I threw my joint away,” she said. “They walked straight up to me, a gentleman showed me his badge, grabbed my hands, and handcuffed me without me even responding.” Bowman sat on the ground as officers searched her bags. They didn’t find any marijuana and eventually located both Bowman’s prescription for cannabis and her dispensary membership card. But the RCMP officers dismissed those documents as irrelevant. They argued that under existing laws, medicinal marijuana must be obtained via mail order from a certified Health Canada supplier. That is accurate and remains true today. On November 13, Liberal prime minister Justin Trudeau issued a mandate letter that stated the Ministry of Justice should “create a federal-provincial-territorial process that will lead to the legalization and regulation of marijuana”. But Justice Minister Jody WilsonRaybould (MP for Vancouver Granville) has yet to act on that directive. Both the Justice Ministry and the RCMP refused to grant interviews. Dana Larsen is vice president of the Canadian Association of Medical Cannabis Dispensaries. He told the Straight that although the country CONNECTED. INDEPENDENT.
Sarah Bowman was handcuffed by Burnaby RCMP after smoking a joint.
remains in a period of transition on marijuana, municipal jurisdictions are policing cannabis as they see fit. Larsen suggested that situation has turned an urban region like Metro Vancouver into an unpredictable patchwork where some jurisdictions zealously enforce drug laws while others turn a blind eye to petty crimes like possession. “In B.C., it totally depends on the mayor and the mayor and city council,” he said. Bowman was travelling from Vancouver to New Westminster but stopped in Burnaby to visit her boyfriend. The Vancouver Police Department has long maintained it does not consider marijuana possession an enforcement priority. Meanwhile, in 2014, the New Westminster Police Department recorded a sevenyear low for drug offences (going as far back as data is publicly available). But Burnaby is policed by the RCMP. “They left me shaking uncontrollably and terrified,” said Bowman, SUSTAINABLE.
who was released without charges. Murray Rankin, opposition critic for justice and NDP MP for Victoria, told the Straight that stories such as Bowman’s should serve as a warning. He said cities like Vancouver and New Westminster may not consider it a priority to go after someone with a joint but anecdotal evidence suggests the situation is different in jurisdictions covered by the RCMP. “It’s quite a varied landscape out there,” he said. “We want a coherent position across the country.” Rankin added that the situation on Vancouver Island is similar to that of Metro Vancouver. The City of Victoria (which has its own municipal police force) has tacitly accepted marijuana storefronts and is drafting regulations comparable to those Vancouver adopted last June. Meanwhile, Rankin continued, in Nanaimo (where the RCMP patrols the streets), marijuana is still getting people into trouble with law enforcement. Barely an hour after Rankin’s call with the Straight, the RCMP issued a news release stating they had executed search warrants at three marijuana dispensaries in Nanaimo. Rankin acknowledged that legalizing marijuana—that is, creating a framework for sales similar to rules that cover tobacco—will be complicated and take time. But he argued it would not be hard for the federal government to decriminalize possession of small amounts of cannabis. Rankin noted that Trudeau discussed this as a first step, and he wondered when that will happen. Larsen similarly acknowledged that full legalization could be a long process. “But there is no reason to continue arresting people for possession,” he said. “Especially when those charges are likely going to be dropped in a few months anyways. What’s the point?” -
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Choirs will duke it out with carols in Gastown. Anthony Maw photo.
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Choirs to face off in city’s first Yule Duel
Cold feet?
> BY C HA RL IE SM I TH
O
n Thursday evening (December 3), Gastown is going to come alive with the sound of choral music. That’s because 21 vocal groups will compete in the city’s first Yule Duel by belting out Christmas carols on sidewalks around Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. Among the participants will be the Vancouver Pops Choir, Mulgrave Chamber Choir, We 3 Queens, Carnival Band, Zing! Children’s Choir, Gentlemen of Fortune Chorus, and the West End Chamber Choir. Young singers from Saint James Music Academy will be performing inside the John Fluevog store at 65 Water Street. According to Leanore Sali, Gastown Business Improvement Society executive director, a panel of judges will name the winners in two categories: best vocal and most creative. “Then the top two in each of those categories will go on-stage and perform,” Sali told the Georgia Straight by phone. The nine-member judging panel includes Christopher Gaze, founder of Bard on the Beach; Michael Boucher, SFU Woodward’s director of cultural programs and partnerships; and Elektra Women’s Choir conductor Morna Edmundson. Audience members will get a chance to vote for their favourite in the final Yule Duel and make a donation to May’s Place, which has been delivering hospice care in the Downtown Eastside for 25 years. The hospice is operated by the Bloom Group, which provides a range of social services in the neighbourhood. Sali said the Bloom Group approached her organization because it felt that Gastown was the perfect location for this type of fundraiser. “It’s a very magical place at Christmastime down here,” Sali noted. “It’s away from the malls and away from the hustle and bustle.” Sali decided to attend a similar event in Seattle that raises funds for the Pike Market Senior Center. “They had all these groups out carolling,” she recalled. “I came back and talked to my board and they said, ‘Yeah, we love the idea.’ The response has been really, really positive.” She admitted that before embarking on this project, she had no idea Vancouver had such a rich choral community. Sali pointed out that bringing choirs into the street will enable people who aren’t normally exposed to this music to hear them perform. When asked if that includes all the techies in Gastown, she responded with a hearty laugh. The largest choir has 40 members; the smallest has only six singers. The main stage will be in Maple Tree Square at the intersection of Alexander, Water, Powell, and Carrall streets. In advance of the grand finale, groups will be singing for about 45 minutes each along Carrall Street to Cordova Street and along Water Street all the way west of Abbott Street. “We all get so wrapped up in this holiday stuff and the rush to buy presents and gifts,” Sali said. “I think this event is sort of a reminder of what it’s all about.” -
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DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 15
TRAVEL
Surf, sun, and sand in Tofino’s storm season
T
he packing list for a November Tofino trip is long: rain boots, rain pants, rain jacket—waterproof, not water-resistant— wool socks, winter hat, warm gloves, and all the fleece you can stuff in your suitcase. Winter in this coastal town is nature’s fury on display in every shade of grey: it’s windy, stormy, cloudy, rainy, wet, messy, and cold. Except when it’s not. An early-winter jaunt to Tofino has become an annual pilgrimage for our family and another of four. We’ve driven past snowdrifts en route to the town of 2,000 and been lashed by fierce winds and horizontal rain while beach-walking at a 45-degree angle. This time out, we swapped stormwatching for a balmy surf holiday in the sun. That’s the magic of storm season on this striking sliver of Vancouver Tofino’s Surf Sister Surf School makes learning how to pop up on the board look quite easy. Peter Eastwood photo. Island’s west coast: you never know what you’re going to get. And de- Beach. Instructor Emily Thicke, a your fingers and toes have turned somewhere cozy and warm. Whether spite the spectacle of immense waves lithe Tofino native, made it all look into Popsicles. you’re watching the driving rain or smashing against black rocks, the easy, my girlfriend and I more closely Pacific Sands Beach Resort, where happen to catch nothing but golden water splashing every which way like resembling awkward, hunchbacked we’ve booked a storm-watching rays during your entire stay, there are nature’s fireworks, no one who comes versions of Selma and Patty Bouvier. package every November for the past plenty of primo spots to take it all in. here expecting to witness a West Coast Once we were in the water, Thicke ex- eight years (and where Surf Sister has Also at Cox Bay is Long Beach tempest is going to ask for a refund if plained that—unlike skiing or snow- opened a seasonal surf shack), has Lodge Resort, a “luxury adventure rethere isn’t a single squall on offer. boarding, where you can do the same beach houses equipped with soaker sort”. You don’t need to be a guest to For us, a five-day run over and over tubs on the second level that offer unwind in the Great Room, which is stretch of clear again and get to views of the ocean through giant even grander than the name implies. blue skies made know every little western red cedars; thawing out here If you have a wealthy aunt or uncle it that much easb u m p — t h e r e ’s makes you feel like you’re perched with classic tastes, imagine their living Gail Johnson ier to contemplate no such thing as a in a treetop bird’s nest. Situated on room: think plush sofas, leather chairs, stepping into the frigid Pacific for a familiar wave. Like snowflakes, each Cox Bay, the resort has a communal, reading lamps, floor-to-ceiling winlesson with Surf Sister Surf School. one is unique. Then there’s the fact covered fire pit for roasting marsh- dows, hardwood floors, and Oriental Never mind the battle involved in that superior coordination, balance, mallows and sheltered barbecues for carpets. Logs crackle in an enormous learning how to stand upright on a strength, stamina, and perseverance outdoor grilling amid deluges. fireplace, and the view is spectacular: board; fighting your way into a wet are required. Even on winter’s darkest, nastiest water as far as the eye can see, plus the suit is the first challenge for newbie As with skiing, it’s possible that days, you’ll find people surfing here, lighthouse at Lennard Island. Chef surfers. (Getting out of one is just as the best part of surfing is the “après”: but clearly this isn’t what draws most Ian Riddick has created an après-surf hard. Apparently, there’s something relaxing and replenishing with fine visitors to Tuff City during the off- menu served daily in the Great Room known as “wet suit muscle”.) food and drink after all that fresh air season. Instead, the attractions are from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Perfect for sharAfter that struggle, we felt warm in and physical exertion. You’ve got to to hike, walk, search for sand dollars, ing are ceviche made with fresh scalthose black neoprene onesies under warm up first, though—especially peek into tidal pools, read, play board lops, salmon, and halibut and served the November sun while learning after spending 20 minutes or so try- games, reconnect, recharge, reflect, with crispy tortilla chips; steamed the “pop up”—a surfer’s key move- ing to peel off your wet suit in the and, ostensibly, wonder at torrential Outlandish mussels in a Tofino-beer ment—on dry land at Chesterman beach parking lot, by which point downpours and violent winds from cioppino thick with fennel, tomato,
Getaways
16 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
and fresh herbs; in-season oysters on the half shell with a bright mignonette; and pizza from the wood-fired oven. The views are similarly staggering from the legendary Wickaninnish Inn. With a fireplace at its centre, the Pointe Restaurant offers upscale dining and more than 240 degrees of Pacific Ocean beauty; it’s the place to go when those well-to-do relatives are picking up the dinner tab. (Note that it’s closed from January 2 to February 5 this season.) A more affordable snack-centred storm-watching option at this iconic Tofino place is the Driftwood Café, in the hotel’s beach building. It takes its name from the magnificent glasstopped bar made of a huge piece of driftwood. With a wood-burning fireplace and a view of Chesterman Beach, this casual spot offers light fare (designed by the Wick’s executive chef, Warren Barr) such as the Pacific Rim Chopped Salad with smoked salmon, and a seared-albacore-tuna sandwich. Off-season visitors who consider themselves foodies won’t want to miss the in-town Wolf in the Fog (be sure to have the kale salad) or SoBo (famous for its lime pie, it’s closed for its annual break until February 5). And for an altogether different perspective on Tofino during storm season, settle in next to the torches and fire pits on the year-round patio at Shelter. The restaurant feels like a cabin inside, with wood everywhere, a big fireplace, lots of candles, and views of Clayoquot Sound. Chef Matthew Kane’s Meares Island Chowder—with smoked salmon, arctic surf clams, manila clams, and local mussels—will warm you up. A whole steamed Dungeness crab with lemon aioli (call ahead) would do nicely too, especially if the weather outside is frightful—but even if it’s not. The writer thanks Tourism Tofino and its stakeholders for their assistance.
holiday variety show and silent auction. Dec 9, 7-9 pm, Kay Meek Centre (1700 Mathers Ave., West Van). Tix $20, info www.mingleofthejingles.com/.
FORUMS 2THIS WEEK
events/ timeout CHRISTMAS FORUMS TAKE ACTION BENEFITS FASHION FOOD AND DRINK ET CETERA KIDS’ STUFF SPORTS ATTRACTIONS OUT OF TOWN
RACHEL MORAN: WHAT THE SEX TRADE DOESN’T WANT YOU TO KNOW Presentation and Q&A session featuring the author of Paid For: My Journey Through Prostitution. Dec 4, 4 pm, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre (1961 East Mall, UBC). Free admission, info www.face book.com/guerrillafeministcollective/.
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CHRISTMAS 2THIS WEEK VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET Sample old European favourites or new flavours while you search for the perfect handmade gift at booths run by over 50 vendors. Other highlights include gingerbread decorating, a Christmas-traditions scavenger hunt, and a Christmas carousel. To Dec 24, 11 am–9 pm, Queen Elizabeth Plaza (W. Georgia & Hamilton). Tix $8/4, info www.vancouverchristmasmarket.com/. BRIGHT NIGHTS IN STANLEY PARK Experience the lights, displays, and live performers at this annual, family-friendly holiday event. To Jan 2, Stanley Park Miniature Train (Stanley Park). Tix $11/8/6/free for kids under two, info www.vancouver.ca/parksrecreation-culture/bright-nights-train.aspx. CHRISTMAS AT FLYOVER CANADA Guests of all ages are invited to join Santa on a flight across Canada and onward to the North Pole as he searches for his missing elves. To Jan 5, 2016, 10 am–9 pm, FlyOver Canada (201-999 Canada Place). Tix $14.95-19.95, info www .flyovercanada.com/tickets/christmas/. FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Stroll with friends and family through interactive themed areas and enjoy the Dancing Lights show on Livingstone Lake, the gnome performance, and the Vancouver Public Library’s Tales for a Winter’s Night. To Dec 31, VanDusen Botanical Garden (5251 Oak). Tix $16/12/9/kids under two free, info www.vancouver.ca/parks-recreationculture/festival-of-lights.aspx. MAKE IT! THE HANDMADE REVOLUTION More than 250 exhibitors will be selling everything from clothing, to art, to home décor and accessories. Dec 3-6, PNE Forum (2901 E. Hastings). Tix $7 at the door, info www.makeitproductions.com/ vancouver/welcome-to-make-it/. TOQUE Western Front’s annual craft fair and fundraiser showcases the work of up to 30 local artists specializing in art publications, ceramics, jewellery, and artisan edibles. Dec 4-6, Western Front (303 E. 8th). Admission by donation, info www.front.bc.ca/toque/. 2015 VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Family-friendly event features live entertainment and music, free cookies and hot chocolate, local food trucks, kids’ activities, visits with Santa, and a treelighting ceremony. Dec 4, 5:30-7 pm, Jack Poole Plaza (Thurlow and W. Cordova). Free admission, info www.childrensfestival. ca/2015-vancouver-christmas-tree-lighting/. TABOO REVUE HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR The Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society presents dance, song, comedy, and striptease by over 20 performers. Dec 5, 8 pm, WISE Hall (1882 Adanac). Tix $15-25, info www.screamingchicken.net/. ROGERS SANTA CLAUS PARADE This year’s parade will feature marching bands, dance troupes, festive floats, and community groups. Donations will be collected for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society. The parade will begin at West Georgia and Broughton, travel east along West Georgia, turn south on Howe, and finish at Howe and Davie. Dec 6, 1-3 pm, Downtown Vancouver. Free admission, info www.rogerssantaclausparade.com/. CHANUKAH PARTY Kid-friendly Chanukah celebration features latkes, sufganiyot, bouncy castles, arts and crafts, candle lighting, a sing-along, and live entertainment. Proceeds go to the Jewish Food Bank. Dec 6, 2-4:30 pm, Jewish Community Centre (950 W. 41st). Admission by donation, info www. jccgv.com/content/jcc-chanukah-party/. GASTOWN CABARET—DECEMBERLAND Holiday-themed variety show features three sets of belly dancers, drag performers, comedy, thrilling live stunts, contortionists, and burlesque. Other highlights include a donut-eating competition and a lip-sync battle. Dec 8, 8 pm, Guilt & Co. (1 Alexander). Tix $10, info www.gastown cabaret.com/. MINGLE OF THE JINGLES Professionals, local talent, and performers with special needs share the stage at the 10th annual
VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL TRADE SUMMIT—CHINA: EMERGING TRENDS & OPPORTUNITIES Event features speakers and panelists from across government, investment, trade, financial, and business backgrounds discussing China’s fastgrowing economy. Dec 7, 8:30 am–4:30 pm, Vancouver Convention Centre (1055 Canada Place). Tix $495/199, info www. internationaltradesummit.ca/. PROTECTING YOUR ONLINE IDENTITY Take control of your online identity by managing your online activities and content in a safe and responsible way. Dec 7, 6:30-8 pm, Vancouver Public Library Central Branch (350 W. Georgia). Free admission, info www.vpl.ca/. VULVA MASSAGE Learn the art of vulva massage and how to expand your capacity for pleasure. Includes a live demonstration. Dec 7, 7:30-9:30 pm, The Art of Loving (369 W. Broadway). Tix $50, info www.theartofloving.ca/. 7 PRINCIPLES OF RELATIONSHIP MASTERS In this two-hour educational workshop, attendees will gain practical tools for increasing intimacy, passion, and reducing conflict, whether single/dating, newly living together, or married for many years. Dec 8, 7:30-9:30 pm, The Art of Loving (369 W. Broadway). Tix $15, info www.artofloving.ca/.
FOOD AND DRINK 2THIS WEEK BAKER’S MARKET: HOLIDAY GOODIES GALORE Buy fruit cake, decorated sugar cookies, cupcakes, French macarons, chocolates, scones, pies, jams, gluten free, and vegan goodies. Dec 6, 11 am–3 pm; Dec 13, 11 am–3 pm, Moberly Arts and Cultural Centre (7646 Prince Albert). Free admission, info www.bakersmarket.com/.
don’t miss out! For up-to-the-minute, searchable Events Time Out listings, visit
www.straight.com
DISCOVERY DINNER SERIES Series of four-course discovery dinners based around themes like mushrooms, farmhouse cheese, and bubbles. Dec 6 & 13, 6:30 pm, Grapes & Soda (1541 W. 6th). Tix $67/35, info www.grapesandsoda.ca/sunday-dinners/.
ET CETERA 2THIS WEEK VIDLASER DARK SIDE OF THE MOON Roundhouse Laser and Light shows in
a new immersive video and RGB laser format every Friday and Saturday night. To Feb 7, 8:15-11:30 pm, BCIT Burnaby Campus (3700 Willingdon Ave., Burnaby). Tix $11, info www.RoundhouseShows.com/.
KITTY NIGHTS BURLESQUE: CANDYLAND Burlesque, singing, comedy, and dancing by Burgundy Brixx, the Purrrfessor, the Viva Vancouver Showgirls, and Darla Jenna DeVine. Dec 6, 8 pm, Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince Edward). Tix $9-17, info www.kittynights.com/ vancouver.html.
KIDS’ STUFF 2THIS WEEK JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH Carousel Theatre for Young People presents a kid-friendly play about a boy who discovers a magical peach. Dec 5–Jan 3, 2016, Waterfront Theatre (Granville Island). Tix $35/29/18, info www.carouseltheatre. ca/production/james/.
SPORTS 2THIS WEEK CANUCKS VS. BRUINS The Vancouver Canucks take on the Boston Bruins in National Hockey League action. Dec 5, 7
pm, Rogers Arena (800 Griffiths Way). Tix $90.25-334.25 (plus service charges and fees) at www.ticketmaster.ca/.
ATTRACTIONS EDGEWATER CASINO Casino in the downtown core offers 24-hour gaming, over 60 table games, a poker room, a high-limit section, 500 slot machines, restaurants and lounges, and live entertainment including concerts and televised UFC events. 750 Pacific Blvd. S.. Info 604687-3343, www.edgewatercasino.ca/
OUT OF TOWN 2THIS WEEK LIGHT UP BOWEN Highlights include a live nativity, carolling, seasonal displays, festivities, and Santa arriving by tugboat. Dec 5, 5-8:30 pm, various Bowen Island venues. Free admission, info www.tourismbowenisland.ca/destination/events/.
TIME OUT EVENTS LISTINGS are a public service provided free of charge, based on available space and editorial discretion. Submit listings online using the event-submission form at straight.com/AddEvent. Events that don’t make it into the paper due to space constraints will appear on the website.
d r a C t f i G ard o B k r e! a n o P y r a e v e e v r i o G eriences f Great exp
TAKE ACTION 2THIS WEEK MONTREAL MASSACRE MEMORIAL Vancouver Rape Relief and Women’s Shelter organizes a public event to commemorate the murders of 14 female engineering students at the L’Ecole Polytechnique in Montréal on December 6th, 1989. Dec 5, 10 am–6 pm, Vancouver Public Library Central Branch (350 W. Georgia). Free admission, info www.rapereliefshelter.bc.ca/.
BENEFITS
FREE
2THIS WEEK LIGHTS OF HOPE AT ST. PAUL’S HOSPITAL Annual fundraising lighting display features over 10 kilometres of twinkling lights, built entirely by volunteers using donated materials. To Jan 4, St. Paul’s Hospital (1081 Burrard Street). Free admission, info lightsofhope.helpstpauls.com/.
COUPON C OUPON
YULE DUEL Outdoor carolling competition raises money for May’s Place, a hospice in the Downtown Eastside. Participating groups include Sweet Scarlet, Sound Eclectic, 8 Wings Vocal Ensemble, and the Gentlemen of Fortune. Dec 3, 6-9 pm, Water Street in Gastown. Info www.yuleduel.com/. 5K@IDF Event brings together IDF World Diabetes Congress delegates and citizens of Vancouver to emphasize the need for increased physical activity to help prevent diabetes and diabetes complications. Proceeds from t-shirt sales go to the International Diabetes Federation’s Life for a Child Programme. Dec 3, 6:308 pm, Vancouver Convention Centre (1055 Canada Place). Free admission, info www.idf5k.com/index.html. 5K SANTA SHUFFLE FUN RUN AND 1K ELF WALK Annual charity run raises funds for the Salvation Army, which assists families and individuals in need during the Christmas season and throughout the year. Dec 5, 10 am, Lumberman’s Arch (Stanley Park). Tix $30/20, info www.santashuffle.ca/event-info-s14147/. BENEFIT CONCERT FOR SYRIAN REFUGEES A concert by vocalist and tambour player Adel Othman raises money for the Immigrant Services Society of B.C., which will support incoming Syrian refugees. Dec 7, 12-12:45 pm, Blusson Spinal Cord Centre (818 W. 10th). Admission by donation, info www.icord. org/events/2015/11/adel-othman-playsthe-tambour/. 14TH ANNUAL DONNELLY FUND TOY DRIVE Bring new, unwrapped toys or nonperishable food items and take part in the festivities. Dec 8, 11 pm–3 am, Republic (958 Granville). Info www.donnellygroup.ca/.
FASHION 2JUST ANNOUNCED CHINATOWN MALL HOLIDAY SALE Highlights include over 35 curated vendor booths, a print sale featuring young emerging artists, a locally sourced pop-up restaurant, dance workshops, a gift lounge, dance performances, DJ sets, and photos by Marshall Heritage. Dec 13, 1-9 pm, Fortune Sound Club (147 E. Pender). Tix $2 at the door, info www.fortunesoundclub.com/.
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DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 17
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18 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
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MOVIES
Need some background BY ADR IAN M ACK
on Turkish film? The movie Snow Pirates—screening at this year’s Golden Horn Vancouver Turkish Film Festival—offers a gateway moment for viewers new to the contemporary cinema of this geopolitical hot spot. In the frozen and desolate northeastern province of Kars, against the backdrop of 1980’s military coup, three schoolboys pose for photographs in front of a medieval castle that’ll take on a sinister bearing as the movie (and the crackdown) proceeds. Two of the boys strike comicbook-hero poses. The third declares: “I want to look like Yılmaz Güney.” For decades, Güney was the sole international face of Turkish cinema, a massively popular movie star turned leftist filmmaker who directed his masterpiece, 1982’s Yol, from prison. He escaped and edited the Palme d’Or winner while exiled in France, becoming a celebrated international figure in the process. This sly reference to the Kurdish people’s hero is an elegant bridge for western viewers taking in the isolated and dangerous world evoked in Faruk Hacıhafızoğlu’s heartfelt debut feature, a world where the creative impulses of a nation were punitively curtailed by the regime. (In today’s Turkey, the General Cinema Directorate of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism is the
Wherein east meets west
Senem Tüzen’s Motherland , starring Nihal G. Koldas and Esra Bezen Bilgin, headlines the Women’s Showcase at the 2015 Vancouver Turkish Film Festival.
“We’re kind of psychotic, in the sense that Turkey You read that right. Fourteen of VTFF’s 29 films were is where Europe meets Asia, but our tragedy, our directed by women, includ- irony, is that we’re in the middle,” Burcuoğlu says. ing the nine shorts screen- “We’re looking east, we’re looking west, who are we? ing under the title Girls This duality has always been at the core of everyIn a post–Anatolian Star Wars era, this year’s Turkish Film Keep Swinging, curated by thing, and, obviously, for artists it’s embedded into film-department head the Turkish psyche. We grew up with this shit, and Festival shows the best cinema the country has to offer the at Istanbul’s Museum of we die with this stuff, and I think this movie is a pure festival’s principal funder this year.) Modern Art, Müge Turan. “A walking encyclo- manifestation of this. It’s old versus new, traditional“After Turkish Star Wars, Yol was our biggest pedia of film who would rival Tarantino with ist versus modern, religious versus dynamic—whathit,” quips Hakan Burcuoğlu, the intense and her knowledge” is Burcuoğlu’s estimation. “It’s ever you want to call it. I think it’s a great script.” Burcuoğlu ends by quoting a review of energetic programmer behind the festival, which great to have her onboard.” runs from Friday until Monday (December 4 to Of the full-length features, among the most Motherland, which received a standing ovation 7) at the Vancity Theatre. Turkish Star Wars, for auspicious is the film headlining VTFF’s at Venice in September. “In its most profound those who haven’t had the pleasure, is the most Women’s Showcase: Senem Tüzen’s astonishing sense,” he says, “this film is Turkey.” Well, half of it, anyway. notorious of Turkey’s “remakes”. As we learn in debut, Motherland. the wild documentary Remake Remix Rip-Off: About Copy Culture & Turkish Pop Cinema, also coming to VTFF, a febrile period of exploitation TURKISH DELIGHTS filmmaking followed the industry’s golden era of the ’60s. As budgets declined to almost nothing REMAKE REMIX RIP-OFF While the Istanbul-based industry boomed (and even when it and directors hammered out entire movies in a didn’t), Turkish filmmakers made deliriously strange Z-movies for uneducated, movie-crazy week, some just took to editing Turkish actors audiences in the provinces. We’ve seen this kind of loving appreciation of exploitation cinema into pirated American blockbusters. before, but Turkey went several steps weirder, moving lightly around the country’s volatile polMatters have improved considerably since then, itics while gleefully cross-stitching American hits into no-budget frankenmovies (their Rambo with filmmakers like Nuri Bilge Ceylan bringing has a motorcycle gang and zombies!), complete with stolen Hollywood soundtracks and even more than just the attention of copyright lawyers pirated reels of film. In that regard, Çetin Inanç—the auteur behind the notorious Turkish Star to a revived industry. An inclusive VTFF opens Wars—turns out to be a highly self-aware mercenary whose best films suggest the wit and vitalwith a blockbuster “popcorn movie” gala, Not So ity of an American drive-in hero like Larry Cohen, but on a ludicrous fraction of the budget and Far Away—“Directed by the most recognizable schedule. Sunday (December 6) actress from the golden age of Turkish Hollywood, Türkân Şoray. She’s royalty,” Burcuoğlu MOTHERLAND Recently divorced Nesrin retreats to her dead grandmother’s house to write a explains—while making room for edgier fare like book. Soon enough, Mom shows up with her nattering and superstitious friends to disturb the the psychological thriller Frenzy (a jury-prize decidedly modern-thinking young woman. Senem Tüzen’s debut film sees the ancient world imwinner at the Venice International Film Festival), placably encroaching on the modern to an extent that eventually drives an exasperated Nesrin to the big-budget fantasy 8 Seconds, and the Quebeca nightmarish act of protest, providing one of the most jaw-dropping moments you’ll see in any made There Where Atilla Passes… film this year, and maybe the next. Saturday (December 5) But Burcuoğlu is most proud of another component to this year’s fest. “I’m a filmmaker as IVY A cargo ship is left stranded on the way to Egypt when the company goes bankrupt. Its well, and it’s my responsibility to showcase the unpaid crew starts to unravel under the influence of shiftless merchant seaman Cenk (Nadir best [that] Turkish cinema has to offer,” he says. Sarıbacak, outrageously good here) and a captain who applies force to conceal his own hollow “And, lately, not so coincidentally, Turkish women authority. Meanwhile, the ghost of a mute giant called Kurd haunts the boat. It’s a memory nohave been creating some amazing, amazing work. body can quite suppress in Tolga Karaçelik’s offbeat and unforgettable political allegory, funded, I think it’s astonishing that 50 percent of any festiamazingly, by the Turkish cultural ministry. Monday (December 7) val’s content would include films made by women in the key creative roles.”
WEEK IN WIDESCREEN
MOVIES
The projector
1
Nick Ocean lives A VERY MURRAY CHRISTMAS If you not-so-secretly want to be a crooner, and you’ve got the clout to punch your own ticket, what do you do? If you’re Bill Murray, you round up the likes of George Clooney, Miley Cyrus, Paul Shaffer, David Johansen, Rashida Jones, and Maya Rudolph and put on an oldfashioned Christmas show. A Very Murray Christmas, premiering Friday (December 4) on Netflix, may not provide the Yuletide redemption your soul is aching for, but damned if it doesn’t have some great musical numbers—most notably a sizzling “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” featuring Murray with Jenny Lewis. Read more at Straight.com. -
2 3
What to see and where to see it
Get the Tardis started
THE YAKUZA A gritty ’70s double bill at the Cinematheque has Robert Mitchum taking on Tokyo in The Yakuza and Dustin Hoffman struggling with the outside world and stupid Gary Busey in Straight Time. Playing as part of Traces That Resemble Us on Thursday (December 3). A PIGEON SAT ON A BRANCH REFLECTING ON EXISTENCE The European Union Film Festival offers another chance to see deadpan Swede Roy Andersson’s acclaimed film, described by the Straight as “Jacques Tati meets Ingmar Bergman”, at the Cinematheque on Friday (December 4). THE HORSE ON THE BALCONY Another solid entry in the Kids Culture Film Series, for parents who think the offspring deserve better than another batch of Minions. This German award-winner gets a matinee screening at the Rio Theatre on Sunday (December 6).
FRONT ROW CENTRE EVENTS Cineplex has lined up a raft of seasonal special events for this coming month (and a bit). The Royal Ballet’s Nutcracker hits the big screen on December 20, followed by Jimmy Stewart stuttering his way through It’s a Wonderful Life on December 21, 23, and 24. A global nerdgasm will ensue on December 28 when newest Time Lord Peter Capaldi meets his wife, River Song, in the Doctor Who Christmas special, gussied up with behind-the-scenes footage and an interview with Alex Kingston. Benedict Cumberbatch follows in the feature-length Sherlock: The Abominable Bride, on January 4 and 6. -
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 19
MOVIES 1181 SEYMOUR ST. 604.683.FILM \ VIFF.ORG
Scottish star Robert Carlyle makes his directorial debut with the black comedy The Legend of Barney Thomson.
A different British Legend > B Y A D R IA N M A C K
T
ADVANCE SCREENING details at straight.com
he myriad delights in The Legend of Barney Thomson might be too numerous to cover here, but let’s start with Emma Thompson feasting on her role as a foul-mouthed, geriatric Glaswegian bingo lady named Cemolina. “It was such a massive part, I knew I needed someone who was gonna be brave,” starts actor Robert Carlyle, talking to the Straight as he strolls through Kitsilano. “Obviously, I didn’t need anyone who was gonna come on showing any kind of vanity here, you know what I mean?” When you catch the actor’s feature directorial debut, a black comedy with a healthy body count getting its North American premiere at the Whistler Film Festival, you will indeed know what he means. Carlyle is the thin-lipped Scottish barber of the title; Thompson is his endlessly gobby mum, a nonstop smoker in the classic mould as handy with an insult as she is with the task of body disposal. “Emma accepted the script within a day and a half,” he continues. “She was on the phone right away. It was fantastic. Feasting on it—that’s exactly what it is. What Emma was able to bring was, well, can we say ballsiness, for a woman? It needed that kick-into-touch type of performance, because that’s generally a guy, that part, and actresses don’t really get the opportunity to play stuff like that every day of the week.” Carlyle’s supporting cast is no less spectacular. There’s Ray Winstone as a dyspeptic and largely incompetent cockney cop constantly under
siege from Ashley (Extras) Jensen’s younger and explosively violent nutter of a Scottish detective. Perhaps best of all is Tom Courtenay whooping it up as their unimpressed chief superintendent, a part that gives one of Britain’s most venerable screen actors the opportunity to say: “I’m not eating off a plate that’s served up a human arse!” Asked how one goes about directing Tom Courtenay, exactly, Carlyle answers with a chuckle: “You don’t. “If you cast it correctly, you don’t really have to do an awful lot of directing. You get actors in there who know what they’re doing. All they’re looking for is to be comfortable, and to feel at home in the part and amongst the cast, and that’s something I have to say I picked up from many directors, but particularly from Danny Boyle.” Courtenay seems to have served as a talisman of sorts to the younger actor. Carlyle says he pitched Barney Thomson somewhere between Britain’s Ealing comedies of the ’50s and the Coen brothers, but he also returned to the kitchen-sink years for further inspiration. “These guys were amongst my all-time heroes,” he says with a sigh. “Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner and Billy Liar and Saturday Night and Sunday Morning with Albert Finney—just wonderful, the films from that time, and these guys, Richard Harris, Peter O’Toole, all of these actors have a big, big influence on me and my life and my career. I went back and watched an awful lot of those films, and actually a lot
of TV shows of the ’60s and ’70s as well, and looked at how these things had been shot, and began to get an understanding of how they worked.” Principally, Carlyle says—in a statement that should quicken the heart of any movie lover—he was struck by the “emptiness of the frame”. “The way they would set these beautiful shots up, and just let them sit, let them breathe, without cutting in all the time,” he says. “No dollies, no fucking spinning cameras, no stupid unnecessary close-ups and stuff like that. Let’s just sit the camera there and let the backdrop do its job, and let the actors within that backdrop do their job. “The other thing,” Carlyle continues, “is back in the day, they shot a lot of these movies very quickly. Compared to today, where they’re looking for three, four, five months of shooting. For fuck’s sake. One of the reasons I kinda walked away from a lot of that, many years ago, these big-budget films, was I can’t stand it. I can’t stand the thought of sitting in a trailer for two-and-a-half days while you light a teacup. Drives me crazy. I’ve no time for that. We didnae have any time for that. We had five weeks to shoot the film, so I thought, ‘That’s that, there’s no teacups being lit in this thing.’ ” No, but there is an arse on a plate. Robert Carlyle will be in conversation at the Whistler Film Festival on Saturday (December 5). The Legend of Barney Thomson screens there on Saturday and Sunday (December 5 and 6).
Canada at Whistler film fest THE DEMONS (Canada) The horrors in this stunning feature from Philippe Lesage are mostly (mostly…) implicit, largely being pulled from the air around Félix, a 10-year-old haunted like any sensitive kid by his dawning apprehension of a world much less secure than he thought. It’s early summer in a deceptively sunny Montreal suburb, probably in the late ’80s (period is more of a dimension here, like an unreliable memory), with Lesage’s Steadicam gliding inquisitively through the lives of Félix’s friends, usually with a hint of something sinister just out of frame, as if Robert Altman had attempted a Québécois rehash of It Follows. If The Demons, easily one of the best Canadian films of the year, doesn’t get a proper opening in Vancouver, then I fucking give up. Thursday (December 3); Friday (December 4) > ADRIAN MACK
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And then, on the other hand, here’s a lowbudget genre flick front-loaded with mood and effects, and maddeningly indifferent to everything else. A young mother is left alone with her infant inside a gloomy and seemingly haunted old apartment while ambitious, faintly asshole-ish actor
hubby works on a TV show. Shades of Rosemary’s Baby? Sure, once you factor out any hope of fully drawn characters acting like real, grown-up humans. And shouldn’t we care more (that is, at all) about a baby in peril? Saturday (December 5) > AM PATTERSON’S WAGER (Canada) A low-key charmer from new filmmaker O. Corbin Saleken, Patterson’s Wager gives the ever-likable Fred Ewanuick the gift of prognostication— although he can only see two minutes into the future. Chelah Horsdal is his not entirely unconvinced partner, although she comes from a family with its own paranormal secrets. (The clue is in that title, Sasquatch-watchers.) It’s a rickety construct that loses its way here and there, but Saleken aces matters with a sweetly gimcrack payoff at the end. Saturday (December 5); Sunday (December 6) > AM THE BIRDWATCHER (Canada) Camille Sullivan is a single mother of two facing a too-pretty death by cancer. She seeks out her birth mother, who turns out to be an ornithologically driven Gabrielle Rose, here mixing her patented fluster with a serious raft of intimacy issues. Like too
many local movies, The Birdwatcher simply doesn’t convince. (And what are we to make of the undercooked dialogue between Sullivan and what appears to be the SRO–dwelling father of her kids?) All the same, either one of these very fine actors can hold your attention, with Sullivan especially bringing some edge to an otherwise watery nonstarter. Thursday (December 3); Sunday (December 6) > AM REHEARSAL (USA/Canada/U.K.)
Artistry and craft are threatened when the producer-boyfriend of a British theatre director hires a Hollywood action star for a mounting of Chekhov’s The Seagull. It’s a desperate bid to save their struggling theatre company, but commercial and cultural sensibilities—not to mention egos—clash and tensions erupt into a power struggle between the director (Bruce Greenwood) and his jockish star (Dean Geyer). While this light rom-com remains congenial and Greenwood delivers a solid performance, there’s an overall blandness to the proceedings (and some of the cast) that undermines an otherwise amusing take on the age-old rivalry between art and commerce. Friday (December 4) > CRAIG TAKEUCHI
WINTER MOVIES ROUNDUP
> BY ADRIAN MACK
The stormtroopers in Star Wars: The Force Awakens have a new look, but here’s betting their aim is just as bad as ever.
HUGE MOVIES STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAK- 70mm epic, starring sexy Channing and the Albertan winter—reports ENS The main thing you need to Tatum alongside Tarantinites Sam- from the set were dire—in Alejan-
know about J. J. Abrams’s entry in the Star Wars canon is that he wrote it with Lawrence Kasdan, the guy who helped pen The Empire Strikes Back, which is as good as Star Wars gets. (December 18)
Eddie Redmayne reteams with director Tom Hooper for an entirely different kind of misérable, playing sex reassignment pioneer Lili Elbe in a film that’s brought both accolades and a healthy share of controversy. (December 18) THE DANISH GIRL
The latest from Quentin Tarantino had a bumpy stagecoach ride from leaked script, to temper tantrum, to cancelled project, to this motherfuckin’ THE HATEFUL EIGHT
uel L. Jackson, Tim Roth, and Kurt dro González Iñárritu’s first film after Birdman, which he shot Russell. (December 25) using only natural light, the nut. POINT BREAK Kathryn Bigelow’s (January 8) snazzy 1991 action pic gets a reboot with Édgar Ramírez and Luke Bracey RISEN A nonbeliever’s tale of the out-“whoa”-ing Patrick Swayze and Resurrection is the hook behind this epic, with Joseph Fiennes as Keanu Reeves. (December 25) the Roman protoskeptic Clavius CONCUSSION The NFL is presum- trying to figure out how that beardably none too happy that Concussion is ed little hippie did it. It’ll be intercoming to the big screen. Will Smith esting to see if Risen also resurrects stars as Bennet Omalu, the pathologist the career of Waterworld director who discovered that repeated blows to Kevin Reynolds. (February 19) the head courtesy of ’roided-up berserkers can have a serious impact on GODS OF EGYPT Set and Horus battle for Egypt in Alex (Dark City) your health. (December 25) Proyas’s new film, starring reliably THE REVENANT Leonardo Di- ancient and God-like Gerard Butler. Caprio takes on a bear, Tom Hardy, (February 26) -
Jean-Pierre Léaud stars in Jacques Rivette’s 13-hour magnum opus Out 1, which the Cinematheque is mercifully screening in four parts in February.
ESSENTIAL MOVIES HITCHCOCK/TRUFFAUT RETROSPECTIVE The Vancity Theatre screens
Haven’t the people of Paris suffered enough? Derek (Ben Stiller) and Hansel (Owen Wilson) remain really ridiculously good-looking in Zoolander 2 .
FUNNY MOVIES SISTERS Taking a rare break from Chekhov, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler play the midlife-crisis-suffering siblings of the title. (December 18) DADDY’S HOME Mark Wahlberg turned out to be one of Will Ferrell’s best foils in 2010’s The Other Guys. This time, they’re fighting over errant-dad Wahlberg’s kids. (December 25) DIRTY GRANDPA Remember Zac Efron’s impersonation of Robert De Niro in Neighbors? It must have been prophetic, as the two head down to Daytona Beach for a spring break Viagra adventure. (January 22) ZOOLANDER 2 Derek and Hansel are back. Justin Bieber and Kanye West are among the stars willing to appear next to the world’s handsomest men. (February 2) -
Downton Abbey ’s Lily James is in period dress once again for the slightly gorier Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.
SCARY AND FANTASTICAL MOVIES
THE FOREST Natalie Dormer escapes The Hunger novel that would have been so much better if Jane Austen Games but ends up in a Japanese forest infamous for sui- had just applied some imagination. (February 5) cides and other assorted horrors. (January 8) ARABIAN NIGHTS Six hours of cinematic genius from Miguel Gomes, DEADPOOL Marvel’s most cynical character gets his own employing One Thousand and One Nights to contemplate Portugal’s pol- THE 5TH WAVE Chloë Grace Moretz is kicking ass big-budget coming-out meta-party, while lucky Ryan Reyitical and social decline (which is way more fun than it sounds). At the again, this time trying to protect her younger brother nolds gets one more whack at making us forget Green Lanfrom one of those apocalyptic alien invasions we keep tern and the Georgia Viaduct gets its epitaph. (February 12) Vancity Theatre, starting January 1. having round here. (January 15) QUAY BROTHERS Weirdo kings of the stop-motion-animation world SHUT IN Poor Jacob Tremblay finally escapes the Room get a 35mm retrospective curated by Christopher Nolan, complete with an THE BOY Remember freaky Canadian horror film Pin? just in time to get lost in a forest during a blizzard. It’s Of course not! The Boy seems to have a similar premise, down to frantic agoraphobe Naomi Watts to find him. introductory doc by Mr. Dark Knight himself, starting January 21. featuring a doll that might be alive. The Walking Dead’s (February 19) OUT 1 Vancouver was the location of a famous screening of Jacques Lauren Cohan stars. (January 22) BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE Rivette’s 13-hour magnum opus in 2006. Pack a few lunches and check it out again when it screens as a four-parter at the Cinematheque, starting PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES Downton Psychopathic billionaire and messianic space alien batAbbey’s Lily James scored the plum role of Elizabeth tle over truth, justice, and another piece of your wallet. February 4. Bennet in this bloody improvement on a 19th-century (March 25) -
12 from the master, Vertigo included, and four by the student. Psycho kicks things off on December 18.
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 21
CLASSY MOVIES YOUTH Director Paolo Sorrentino
WHAT AN IDIOT “I’m gay!” says Vancouver’s Peter Benson to his hot new boss, played by spouse Julia Benson, meaning he’ll obviously get inside those pants at some point. (February 5)
JOY David O. Russell hopes to “mir-
RAMS Two rural brothers who haven’t spoken for decades team up in this Icelandic Cannes favourite to save the one thing that will always heal a broken family—its sheep. (February 12)
SON OF SAUL Laszlo Nemes’s Hungarian Holocaust drama was the winner of this year’s Grand Prix at Cannes. (January 15)
THE CLUB Like the upcoming Colonia, No director Pablo Larraín’s latest looks at an institution whose crimes were encouraged and covered up under Pinochet. (February 19)
follows up his Great Beauty by sending Michael Caine off to the Alps for a profoundly moving late-career highlight. (December 18)
acle mop” up at the box office, reteaming Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, and Robert De Niro in the story of Ingenious Designs CEO Joy Mangano. (December 25)
MUSTANG This take on The Virgin Suicides arrives from Turkey, one of the hottest countries on the planet moviewise, and an unlikely new force in feminist filmmaking. (January 15)
Tom Courtenay and Charlotte Rampling are a couple facing that notoriously difficult 45th year of marriage in this festival favourite. (January 22) 45 YEARS
George Clooney really stretches out by playing a Hollywood movie star in the Coen brothers’ Hail, Caesar! .
man’s deeply affecting animated Michael Moore’s newest arrives in comedy-drama features the best theatres. Said to be his best for a puppet sex scene in movie history. while. (January 22) (January 22) THE LADY IN THE VAN Maggie ANOMALISA It feels cheap to WHERE TO INVADE NEXT Hope- Smith is the bag lady of the title, mention this, but Charlie Kauf- fully, we’ll still be wondering when from a true-life script by stately old
at UNTIL I LOSE MY BREATH |
Sunday · Dec 6 at 4:45pm MOTHERLAND | Nesrin is a recent divorcee, who’s quit her job in the city and come to her grandmother’s village house to write. When her conservative mother turns up they are forced to confront the darker corners of each other’s inner worlds.
Saturday · Dec 5 at 3:45pm
Saturday · Dec 5 at 7:30pm
The Coen brothers lampoon Hollywood’s golden age, minus Barton Fink. Josh Brolin, George Clooney, and Tilda Swinton lead the star-packed cast. (February 5) HAIL, CAESAR!
re
Th
Melissa Rauch is a heroically assholish Olympic gymnast in this scabrous comedy somewhere in the Bad Santa dimension. Unsung genius of the screen Gary Cole costars. (March 11) THE BRONZE
Visit to win tickets to Exclusive Screenings
t ea
DADDY’S HOME
Sunday, Dec. 13 International Village Cinemas 11AM
RA AD M ME ES t s e 8 SECONDS | l gu cia Based on true e p s events, – a free-spirited th woman, at grips with her *wi conservative surroundings. Choosing escape over conformity, we witness as she starts having precognitive visions, ultimately triggering her metamorphosis.
THE DANISH GIRL
Monday, Dec. 14 Cineplex Fifth Avenue 7PM
8 SECONDS|
Sunday · Dec 6 at 7:00pm THERE WHERE ATILLA PASSES ... | This is the
THERE WHERE ATILLA PASSES . . . |
Alan Bennett. (January 29)
UNTIL I LOSE MY BREATH | A harried nc textile runner struggles Va to get the attention of her estranged father. Balcı draws immenserealism, providing the ultimate platform for Esme Madra to shine, in a profound performance as the reticent anti-hero.
y it
MOTHERLAND |
COCONUT HERO Crazy old Udo Kier breaks character to play a therapist in this Canuck indie, about a morose teen who’s quite happy to learn that a walnut-sized tumour has made itself comfortable in his brain. (February 19)
melancholic, yet uplifting story that centers on a displaced, reclusive & reticent young man, haunted by the demons of a childhood all but forgotten. He touches the lives of all those who cross his path.
In Theatres Dec. 18 LEMONADE | A charming road comedy depicting the story of two half-brothers on a reluctant journey to their fathers’ death bed. This tumultous adventure will test their patience and force them to question their allegiances.
LEMONADE |
Monday · Dec 7 at 9:00pm FRENZY | The story of Kadir, a stoic ex-con released on parole to act as an informant. Awarded with the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival, Alper’s FRENZY is a starkly photographed, masterfully crafted film that delves deep into dystopia.
FRENZY |
Saturday · Dec 5 at 9:30pm
.com/vancouverturkishfilmfestival | Tickets @ VTFF.ORG | 22 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
THE RED CROSS @VTFF2015
turkishfilmvancouver
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MOVIES
“ONE OF THE BEST MOVIES OF THE YEAR
AND SOMETHING OF A MIRACLE. SEE IT ON THE BIG SCREEN.” SCOTT MENDELSON,
Antti Litja plays a chronically unhappy father in Finnish comedy The Grump.
Grumps and fencers fill out Euro fest
I
f the European Union is perpetually on the verge of collapse, rest assured that its film festival is enjoying continued stability and no austerity measures at Vancouver’s Cinematheque. Here are a few more of our picks. The European Union Film Festival continues until December 9.
“A GODSEND FOR AUDIENCES WHO HUNGER FOR RICH EMOTION.” KENNETH TURAN,
“SAOIRSE RONAN PUTS A LOCK ON A SECOND OSCAR NOMINATION!” ®
JAMES ADAMS,
++++
When a potato farmer in his 80s falls down the stairs and injures himself, he’s forced against his will to stay in Helsinki with his daughter-in-law, Liisa, while his spineless son, Hessu, takes care of the farm. Sentimentally arrested in the halcyon days of the 1950s, the obstinate father (referred to only as “the Grump”) finds fault with everything modern, leading to an escalating series of conflicts as Liisa hosts a visit from Russian business clients. Although this solid and entertaining domestic comedy takes a while to move beyond predictable generational clashes, the story develops more dynamically after Dad’s Achilles’ heel is revealed. Friday (December 4) > CRAIG TAKEUCHI
+++++
++++
THE GRUMP (Finland)
BASED ON THE BEST SELLING NOVEL BY
COLM TÓIBÍN
THE FENCER (Estonia) Hollywood traditionally cranks out rousing films about underdog kids with a dedicated misfit coach who take on the (fill in the sport) champions, so why shouldn’t Europe have a crack? With The Fencer, that’s just what you get, albeit a more nuanced, better-acted, and politically subversive period version. Set in a remote town in Estonia during the Soviet occupation after the Second World War and based on the true story of a legendary Estonian fencer, this story of a man running from Stalin’s secret police juxtaposes the era’s paranoia (strange men, unfamiliar vehicles, and sudden door knocks generate fear) with the expected tournament payoff and a genuine lump-in-the-throat ending. A superior show-don’t-tell effort from Finnish veterans Klaus Härö (director) and Tuomo Hutri (cinematographer)—underlit streets, leaking school roof, teacups billowing steam indoors—lends understated oomph to the postwar austerity. Wednesday (December 9) > MARTIN DUNPHY LITTLE ENGLAND (Greece) Director Pantelis Voulgaris managed to adapt Ioanna Karystiani’s popular novel into an intriguing film with powerful acting and unconventional compositions. In the 1930s and ’40s on the Greek island of Andros, women in the community must look after themselves when the men are out at sea. The story focuses on two sisters—introverted beauty Orsa and outgoing spirit Moscha—and their financially calculating mother, Mina. Orsa and Moscha eventually fall in love with the same dashing sea captain, Spyros. All three women live in the same house, leading to complicated emotions and painful relationships. The film uses the surrounding ocean waves as a motif that references the perils of the sea, counterbalanced by the violent conflicts taking place on land. All in all, Little England tells a subtly complex story that brings the audience on a mesmerizing and melodramatic romantic journey. Sunday (December 6) > TAMMY KWAN
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DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 23
MOVIES
Brutal British brothers rage on in Legend RE VIEW S
much meaning to non-Iranians. This 80-minute ride (aka Taxi Tehran) depends a lot on context for real appreciation. But, of course, wherever you are, it’s always good to have a quick way to get out of the rain.
LEGEND Starring Tom Hardy. Rated 14A. For showtimes, please see page 26
To the British, the Kray twins
> KEN EISNER
2 are more than just the legend(s)
of this feebly titled effort. The identical East Enders ruled London’s criminal underworld with a mixture of weird flamboyance and surpassing viciousness, accruing glamour, celebrity, and international connections that made them the darkly alluring obverse of the British Invasion. In recent years, their place inside a loathsome nexus of deviant behaviour enjoyed by the British cultural and political elite—symbolized by the untouchable BBC DJ and serial child abuser Jimmy Savile—has presumably broken a spell that previously had the Krays fixed as folk heroes. None of this makes its way into Legend, of course, written and directed by the American Brian Helgeland. I just figured a little context would be nice. Helgeland does at least include one scene, set in the Krays’ swinging, celebrity-packed West End nightclub, that efficiently
THE FOOL Starring Artyom Bystrov. Rating unavailable. For showtimes, please see page 26
Putin’s Russia is a squalid of corruption and misery in Yuriy Bykov’s feel-good hit of the winter. The fool of the title is Dima (Artyom Bystrov), a lowly but ambitious plumber called out to inspect a burst water pipe in a ninestorey slum while the city supervisor is AWOL on a “three-day bender”. When he discovers that the building is about to collapse on its 800 drunk, stoned, poor, crazy, violent, and abused inhabitants—something we learn in a chillingly effective set piece—Dima sets out to save them. He’s strongly discouraged in his task by a wife and mother who’ve already spent the first part of the film berating Dima and his father for their pitiable honesty, but that’s nothing compared to the obstacles he faces from local government, a cabal of grotesques busy drinking themselves stupid at a birthday party for a fearsomely matriarchal mayor known as “Mama” (Natalya Surkova). Bystrov takes real glee in stripping bare a vertical system utterly paralyzed by mutual blackmail, bribery, and graft—not to mention cowardice—and The Fool unfolds with a powerful, if appalling, logic. As ever, there’s something uncomfortably thrilling about a film that’s so uninhibited in its critique of the criminal state, and something perhaps a little telling that western art is so dickless in comparison.
2 wasteland
In Legend, Tom Hardy does double duty as Ronnie and Reggie Kray, twins who ruled London’s underworld in the 1960s.
circumscribes the pact between the decadent wealthy and their psychopathic cockney fixers. Otherwise, Legend is really just a Brit Goodfellas with a stunt performance by Tom Hardy as both twins. His Ronnie is a deep-thinking, mouth-breathing savant diagnosed with paranoid
schizophrenia within seconds of his first (hilarious) appearance. Reggie is the handsome charmer forced to curb his openly bisexual brother’s fantastically violent impulses, while trying to accommodate his bedazzled young wife, Frances (Emily Browning), who narrates.
TURKISH DELIGHT?
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It was anything but a grand, if doomed, romance. In reality the marriage was never consummated. Helgeland’s film naturally plays fast and loose with all the facts, which probably matters less than usual when you’ve got this generation’s most exciting actor as both of your leads, blazing through a postcard version of ’60s London and even kicking the shit out of himself at one point. The Krays’ older brother, Charlie, is never mentioned, while mum Violet (Jane Wood) was considerably more present in 1990’s The Krays. Helgeland also glosses over the fact that Reggie stabbed Jack “the Hat” McVitie to death with such ferocity that his liver had to be flushed down a toilet, but still. Movie violence—it’s all just a lark, innit?
> ADRIAN MACK
JAFAR PANAHI’S TAXI Featuring Jafar Panahi. In Farsi, with English subtitles. Rating unavailable. For showtimes, please see page 26
Judging from the travel patterns spied through a dashcam and other small cameras squirrelled away in handbags and such, Tehran is not the most orderly place in the world. Traffic lights, crosswalks, and turn lanes are all mere suggestions, allowing for passive-aggressive selfexpression in the movement captured by This Is Not a Film director Jafar Panahi, here posing as a cab driver to get around his latest ban on making movies. His third cinematic outing since the ban was imposed—an earlier effort was smuggled out of Iran in a cake—this mostly scripted, sometimes improvised tour finds Panahi chatting with old friends, family members, and sometimes enigmatic strangers, all taking stock of life in a place where freedoms are always under siege. It’s a measure of the director’s stature, and his hangdog face, that he’s recognized by several of his passengers, including a fellow who sells pirated DVDs of the driver’s films. This doesn’t stop any of them from criticizing his navigational skills or taking pity on his perceived loss of prestige. A number of passengers comment on the prevalence of and response to crime in their country, with one notable sequence pitting a middle-aged woman who opposes capital punishment against a younger male who’s for it, despite his own vaguely referenced life as an extra-legal “freelancer”. Other intellectuals bemoan ongoing restrictions, and these are reflected when Panahi goes to pick up his young (real-life) niece from school, where she has just been learning how to wend her way through constantly shifting censorship rules. Indeed, it’s when Panahi literally goes out of his way to do good, by returning a passenger’s forgotten wallet, that he gets in the most trouble. Some viewers may wish that he had shot the film only with real passengers, and others may find some conversations too naturalistic to convey
2
> ADRIAN MACK
LIFE Starring Robert Pattinson. Rated PG. For showtimes, please see page 26
Based on true events, Life the professional relationship between actor James Dean (Dane DeHaan) and photographer Dennis Stock (Robert Pattinson). Set in 1955—only a few months before Dean’s untimely death at 24—it centres on a series of candid photographs Stock took for Life magazine, including the iconic portrait of a slouching Dean walking through Times Square in the rain. There’s not much to go on here. Stock is a young photographer convinced that the largely unknown Dean is going to make it big. The moody actor, on the cusp of getting his breakthrough role in Rebel Without a Cause, strings Stock along as a way of dodging his publicity commitments for East of Eden. We are supposed to be intrigued by their growing friendship. But Pattinson’s Stock is a bitter, uptight young man who can’t relax into the moment unless he’s holding a camera. As for Dean, we’re left wondering why everybody thinks he’s so special. In trying to convince his agent that the actor is a worthy subject, Stock says: “There’s a kind of awkwardness. A purity that you can’t fake.” True enough, which is why DeHaan’s performance comes across as more awkward than pure. Despite one or two absorbing moments, he lacks Dean’s restless edge. The shy mumble is gone, the lean sense of melancholy replaced by a too-round face and a little-boy voice that seems oddly out of character. Director Anton Corbijn attempts to pump some much-needed energy into the proceedings with stiff cameos featuring actors impersonating the likes of Natalie Wood, Eartha Kitt, and Julie Harris. Their appearances are mercifully short,
2 chronicles
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which is more than you can say about Ben Kingsley’s terminally greasy portrayal of studio head Jack Warner. What little credibility the film manages to build is totally lost once we see actual photographs of the real Dean. A few classic images are all it takes to appreciate his undeniable presence. The rest just seems awkward. And there’s nothing cool about that. > JOHN LEKICH
PREM RATAN DHAN PAYO Starring Salman Khan. Rated PG. For showtimes, please see page 26
The hype surrounding the Diwali weekend release of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo promised the return of “Prem”. While this is the name of every male lead in director Sooraj Barjatya’s films, Salman Khan became a Bollywood superstar when he played the original Prem in 1989. He returns here to play another incarnation of the
2
character in a movie that is itself an unoriginal rehash of familiar themes. Prem is a small-town stage actor who has a distant crush on Maithili Devi (Sonam Kapoor). She’s from a royal family and runs a charity. Prem’s performance troupe collects donations for it and he travels to a nearby fiefdom in the hope of meeting her in person. Maithili is scheduled to attend the coronation of her fiancé, Vijay Singh—who inexplicably looks exactly like Prem. But something is rotten in the royal family of Pritampur, with much conflict between Vijay and his three half siblings. Vijay’s royal future is at risk when he has a nearly fatal accident. Upon seeing Prem, the royal adviser (Anupam Kher) enlists him to impersonate Vijay. He steps to the role with all the naiveté and pure intentions that one expects from his character. Barjatya’s films have long fixated on the theme of preserving family connections despite all the
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dastardly behaviour therein. There is nothing new here. Over the course of a few days and way too many songs, Prem tries to reform this wayward clan. The film takes place in the present, and the magnificent palatial locations in Rajasthan and Gujarat are littered with signs of modernity that Barjatya’s camera doggedly catches in frame. But there’s a historical feel to Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, and it’s not just because of the sets. Its trite message is every bit as anachronistic as the feudal titles that the characters hold. > ITRATH SYED
THE GOOD DINOSAUR Featuring the voices of Raymond Ochoa and Sam Elliott. Rated G. For showtimes, please see page 26
Apatosauruses plowing corn and T. rex herding longhorn cattle on the open plain? This is the rather strange universe
2 fields
imagined in the western-tinged The Good Dinosaur, which imagines a world where the comet never destroyed Jurassic giants and they evolved into talking, agrarian societies. But where Pixar’s gentle new cartoon really turns evolution upside down is in the role human beings play in all this. Arlo, the runt of his farming family, is a klutzy green apatosaurus who gets lost in the wilderness and has to find the long way home. He hooks up with a feral little boy he calls Spot along the way—the latter running around on all fours and hissing and growling to communicate. It’s a subversive idea to put humans this low on the food and intelligence chain, and subtly prods us to reconsider our supremacy on Earth. Unfortunately, The Good Dinosaur doesn’t push the idea much further than that, following a journey-quest script that borrows liberally from The Lion King, The Jungle Book, and The Land Before
Time. Arlo and Spot meet dozens of cool critters along the way, from an army of fuzzy prairie dogs to marauding pterodactyls and hillbilly raptors. But the story really sings only when its creators stray from the formula—as when Sam Elliott, playing a T. rex, tells the story behind his giant scar, or the pair ingest some mind-altering fruit. The animation does have spectacular, photorealistic scenery of rushing river rapids, swaying barley fields, and firef lies swirling up from long grass—creating a weird disconnect with the primitively drawn, albeit three-dimensionally portrayed, dinos. Still, there’s enough mild fun and lovingly conjured critters here to please small children, and a few touching moments between the dino-boy and his boy-dog. Plus, it’s not the worst thing for kids to see what the world might look like if humankind hadn’t paved over the planet.
BELGIUM
UNITED KINGDOM
Vancouver Premiere!
Vancouver Premiere!
(Tous les chats sont gris)
United Kingdom 2013. Dirs: Dan Poole, Giles Terera. 83 min.
All Cats Are Grey
> JANET SMITH
Muse of Fire
This good-natured documentary sets out to discover who loves and loathes the Bard, including visits with some of our era’s leading Shakespearean actors, including Judi Dench, Jude Law, Ewan McGregor, and Ian McKellen.
Belgium 2014. Dir: Savina Dellicour. 90 min.
A 43-year-old amateur detective and a rebellious 16-year-old girl share an unexpected connection in Savina Dellicour’s debut feature.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 – 8:30 PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 – 8:30 PM
POLAND
CZECH REPUBLIC
Vancouver Premiere!
The Grump
(Mielensäpahoittaja)
Finland 2014. Dir: Dome Karukoski. 104 min.
A cantankerous elderly farmer wreaks havoc in the Helsinki household of his mild-mannered son in this satirical comedy.
Gods
Vancouver Premiere!
To See the Sea
(Bogowie)
Poland 2014. Dir: Lukasz Palkowski. 120 min.
(Pojedeme k moři)
Czech Republic 2014. Dir: Jirí Mádl. 90 min.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 – 6:30 PM
This first feature by star-turned-director Jirí Mádl is seen entirely through the camera of its 11-year-old main character, who fashions himself as a spy.
SWEDEN
All Ages Screening - Rating TBA
Lukasz Palkowski’s 1980s-set film is a fast-paced, soapy pleasure about the doctor who performed the first successful heart transplant in Poland.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 – 6:30 PM
LITHUANIA
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 – 4:00 PM
GREECE
A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence (En duva satt på en gren och funderade på tillvaron)
Sweden/Norway/France/Germany 2014. Dir: Roy Andersson. 101 min.
The latest jaw-dropping wonder from singular Swede Roy Andersson is composed of 37 comic vignettes, the film follows sad-sack salesmen, door-to-door peddlers of cheap novelty items.
Vancouver Premiere!
How Saul and Paul Robbed Them All (Traukinio apiplėšimas, kurį įvykdė Saulius ir Paulius)
Vancouver Premiere!
Lithuania 2015. Dirs: Simonas Askelavicius, Ricardas Marcinkus. 100 min.
Little England
Two yokels attempt to rob a wedding train in this adventure comedy and Lithuanian box-office hit.
(Mikra Anglia)
Greece 2013. Dir: Pantelis Voulgaris. 132 min.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 – 8:30 PM
Greek auteur Pantelis Voulgaris (Brides) adapts wife Ioanna Karystiani’s best-selling novel in this epic romance/period drama, set in the 1930s and ‘40s on the island of Andros.
LATVIA
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 – 6:00 PM
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 – 8:45 PM
ESTONIA
SLOVENIA Vancouver Premiere!
The Fencer
Vancouver Premiere!
Alias Loner
(Segvārds Vientulis)
Latvia 2014. Dir: Normunds Pucis. 90 min.
In the wake of the second Soviet occupation, a rural Catholic priest helps local men escape forced conscription in the oppressor’s army by hiding them on the church grounds in this black-and-white docudrama set in Latvia in 1945.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 – 4:30 PM
(Miekkailija)
Estonia/Finland/Germany 2015. Dir: Klaus Härö. 93 min.
Vancouver Premiere!
The Tree
In Soviet-occupied Estonia, a young fencer, on the run from Stalin’s secret police seeks refuge in a remote town, where he quietly starts a new life as a gym teacher at the local school. A fictionalized story of Estonian fencing master Endel Nelis.
Slovenia 2014. Dir: Sonja Prosenc. 90 min.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 – 6:30 PM
(Drevo)
A widowed mother and her two young sons, for reasons initially left unexplained, confine themselves behind the walls of their house in Sonja Prosenc’s feature debut.
CYPRUS
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 – 8:30 PM
FRANCE
IRELAND Vancouver Premiere!
Committed
Vancouver Premiere!
Wild Life
Cyprus 2014. Dir: Stelana Kliris. 90 min.
Vancouver Premiere!
(Vie sauvage)
France/Belgium 2014. Dir: Cédric Kahn. 102 min.
A young couple renounce civilization to lead a nomadic life in their caravan, gradually adding children to the mix. But when one tires of their itinerant lifestyle and gains custody of their sons, things get complicated.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 – 6:30 PM
eufilmfestival.com
Noble
Ireland/Vietnam/United Kingdom 2014. Dir: Stephen Bradley. 100 min.
A fearless Irishwoman follows her motto “a little insane goes a long way” and accomplishes great things in director Stephen Bradley’s stirring, crowd-pleasing biopic, dramatizing the true story of Christina Noble.
An unconventional and moving romantic comedy about two strangers who confront their hang-ups about love, marriage, insecurity, and commitment and set off on an unforgettable road trip across Cyprus.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 – 8:20 PM
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 – 6:30 PM
Presented by:
Sponsored by:
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 25
SilverCity Coquitlam & VIP Cinemas and SilverCity Riverport Cinemas
REPERTORY CINEMAS Times are current as of Friday, December 4
movies/ timeout NEW THIS WEEK REPERTORY CINEMAS SPECIAL EVENTS FIRST-RUN SHOW TIMES
< < < <
NEW THIS WEEK A ROYAL NIGHT OUT Sarah Gadon, Bel Powley, and Emily Watson star in Brideshead Revisited director Julian Jarrold’s romance film about two princesses who spend a rare night out on V.E. Day in 1945. 97 mins. Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas THE FOOL Nina Antyukhova, Sergey Artsibashev, and Pyotr Barancheev star in The Major writer-director Yuriy Bykov’s drama about an honest plumber who suddenly decides to face the corrupt system of local politics. 116 mins. Vancity Theatre JAFAR PANAHI’S TAXI Director Jafar Panahi’s film sees him make movies while moonlighting as a taxi driver, a camera mounted to his dashboard. Vancity Theatre KRAMPUS Adam Scott, Toni Collette, and David Koechner star in Trick ‘r Treat writer-director Michael Dougherty’s horror flick about a boy who accidentally summons the Christmas demon to his family’s home. Rated 14A. Cineplex Cinemas Langley, Cineplex Odeon Meadowtown Cinemas, Cineplex Odeon Park & Tilford, Cineplex Odeon Strawberry Hill, Galaxy Cinemas Chilliwack, Landmark Cinemas 10 New Westminster, Landmark Cinemas 12 Guildford Surrey, Scotiabank Theatre Vancouver, SilverCity Coquitlam & VIP Cinemas, SilverCity Metropolis Cinemas, SilverCity Mission and SilverCity Riverport LEGEND Tom Hardy, Emily Browning, and Taron Egerton star in 42 writer-director Brian Helgeland’s crime drama about identical twin gangsters Reggie and Ronnie Kray, who ruled the East End of London in the 1960s. Rated 14A. 131 mins. Cineplex Cinemas Langley, Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas,
THE CINEMATHEQUE 1131 Howe St., Vancouver, 604-688-3456, www.thecinematheque.ca 2A PIGEON SAT ON A BRANCH REFLECTING ON EXISTENCE Fri 8:30 2ALIAS LONER Sat 4:30 2ALL CATS ARE GREY Sat 8:30 2COMMITTED Wed 8:20 2GODS Tue 6:30 2GUMMO Thu 8:30 2HOW SAUL AND PAUL ROBBED THEM ALL Tue 8:45 2LITTLE ENGLAND Sun 6:00 2MUSE OF FIRE Mon 8:30 2NOBLE Mon 6:30 2STAR 80 Thu 6:30 2THE FENCER Wed 6:30 2THE GRUMP Fri 6:00 2THE TREE Sun 8:30 2TO SEE THE SEA Sun 4:00 2WILD LIFE Sat 6:00 VANCITY THEATRE 1181 Seymour St., Vancouver, 604-683-3456, www.viff.org/ theatre 2JAFAR PANAHI’S TAXI Tue, Thu 6:30; Wed 8:45 2THE FOOL Tue, Thu 8:15; Wed 6:30
SPECIAL EVENTS FRACTURED LAND A documentary by directors Damien Gillis and Fiona Rayher tells the story of a young indigenous leader and lawyer who confronts fracking in his community. To Dec 3, Vancity Theatre (1181 Seymour). Tix $11/9 (plus membership fee), info www.viff.org/theatre/. HAIDA GWAII: ON THE EDGE OF THE WORLD Director Charles Wilkinson’s documentary explores the islands’ raw beauty. To Dec 3, Vancity Theatre (1181 Seymour). Tix $11/9 (plus membership fee), info www.viff.org/theatre/. EUROPEAN UNION FILM FESTIVAL The 18th annual showcase of acclaimed new films from across greater Europe features 28 films from 28 countries. To Dec 9, The Cinematheque (200 - 1131 Howe Street). Info www.eufilmfestival.com/. WHISTLER FILM FESTIVAL The 15th annual event features 89 films, 15 special events, a tribute to Kiefer Sutherland, and a spotlight on Robert Carlyle. Films include Carol, The Legend of Barney Thomson, Trumbo, Legend, The Lady in the Van, Born to Be Blue, A Royal Night Out, and I Smile Back. Dec 2-6, various Whistler venues. Tix from $13, info www. whistlerfilmfestival.com/. THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING Avi Lewis’s documentary attempts to reimagine the vast challenge of climate change. Dec 3, 1 pm, Vancity Theatre (1181 Seymour). Tix $11/9 (plus membership fee), info www.viff.org/theatre/. HADWIN’S JUDGEMENT Film details Grant Hadwin’s journey from logging scout to eco-terrorist. Dec 3, 4:15 pm,
SALE
Vancity Theatre (1181 Seymour). Tix $11/9 (plus membership fee), info www.viff.org/ theatre/. VANCOUVER TURKISH FILM FESTIVAL Celebrate Turkish cinema with screenings of feature films Ivy, Snow Pirates, Redbull Anadolu Break, Limonata, 8 Seconds, The Spider’s Web, Uzaklarda Arama, Tuesday, Motherland, and A Dream School in the Steppes. Dec 4-7, Vancity Theatre (1181 Seymour). Tix $11/9 (plus membership fee), info www.vtff.org/. UNTETHERED HIGHLINE FILM WORLD PRMIERE Screening of a documentary that chronicles a journey of personal progression and community growth. Dec 4, 7:30 pm, The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts (777 Homer). Tix $13.95, info www.leftcoast.co/untethered/. REEL READS: INTO THE WOODS Screening of the recent film about a cast of fairy-tale characters who find their fates intertwined with those of a humble baker and his wife, whose longing to have a child sends them on a quest to reverse a witch’s curse. Dec 3, 6:30-8:45 pm, Alice MacKay Room (Vancouver Public Library, 350 W. Georgia). Free admission, info www.vpl.ca/.
don’t miss out! For up-to-the-minute, searchable Movies Time Out listings, visit
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A HORSE ON THE BALCONY Screening of a kid-friendly film about a 10-year-old boy with a mild form of autism. In German, with English subtitles. Dec 6, 12:30 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $5-9, info www.facebook.com/kidsculture/. HAIDA GWAII: ON THE EDGE OF THE WORLD The Rio Theatre and the Pull Together campaign present a screening of director Charles Wilkinson’s documentary. Proceeds go to the legal challenge against the federal government’s approval of the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline. Dec 6, 3 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tuix $12/10, info www.riotheatre.ca/. EAST VAN SHORT FILM SHOWCASE This sophomore series includes a new program of short films from the cultural heart of Vancouver. Dec 6, 7 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $8/5, info www.riotheatre.ca/. LIFE Screening of Anton Corbijn’s 2015 drama about the story behind the 1955 LIFE Magazine photo thread by Dennis Stock of then-rising star James Dean. Dec 6, 9:20 pm; Dec 7, 9 pm; Dec 9, 6:45 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $12/10, info www.riotheatre.ca/.
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REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE Nicholas Ray’s 1955 film sees a troublemaking teen who moves to a new town hoping to have a clean slate. Dec 7, 6:45 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $10/8, info www.riotheatre.ca/. WHAT’S UP DOC? RED ARMY Film portrays the story of the Soviet Union’s famed Red Army hockey team through the eyes of its players. Dec 8, 7-8:45 pm, Alice MacKay Room (Vancouver Public Library, 350 W. Georgia). Free admission, info www.vpl.ca/. INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS FILM SCREENING & PANEL DISCUSSION Screening of Fighting the Silence, a documentary about sexual violence against women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Includes a post-film panel discussion. Dec 9, 6 pm, UBC Robson Square (800 Robson). Free admission, info www.allardprize.org/ international-human-rights-film-screeningpanel-discussion/.
9:50, 10:30; Mon, Wed 12:20, 1:00, 3:30, 4:05, 6:40, 7:15, 9:50, 10:25; Thu 12:20, 1:00, 3:30, 4:05, 7:15, 10:25 2THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY, PART 2 Fri, Sun 12:00, 12:40, 1:10, 3:10, 3:40, 4:20, 6:30, 7:05, 7:35, 9:40, 10:15, 10:45; Sat 10:00, 12:00, 12:45, 1:10, 3:10, 3:40, 4:20, 6:30, 7:05, 7:35, 9:40, 10:15, 10:45; Mon 12:20, 12:40, 1:05, 3:25, 3:40, 4:15, 7:00, 7:25, 9:40, 10:05, 10:30; Tue 12:00, 12:45, 1:10, 3:10, 3:40, 4:20, 6:30, 7:05, 7:35, 9:40, 10:15, 10:45; Wed 12:20, 12:40, 1:05, 3:25, 3:40, 4:15, 6:30, 7:00, 7:25, 9:40, 10:05, 10:30; Thu 12:20, 12:35, 1:05, 3:25, 3:40, 4:15, 6:30, 7:25, 9:40, 10:30 2IN THE HEART OF THE SEA Thu 7:00, 10:05 2KRAMPUS Fri, Sun-Tue 12:10, 2:40, 5:15, 7:45, 10:20; Sat 10:00, 12:10, 2:40, 5:15, 7:45, 10:20; Wed-Thu 12:15, 2:45, 5:15, 7:45, 10:20 2THE MARTIAN Fri, Sun, Tue 3:50; Sat, Mon, Wed 3:45; Thu 3:35 2THE NIGHT BEFORE Fri-Sun, Tue 12:30, 3:00, 5:30, 8:05, 10:40; Mon, Wed-Thu 12:30, 3:00, 5:30, 8:00, 10:30 2SPECTRE Fri-Sun, Tue 12:15, 3:35, 7:00, 10:25; Mon 12:00, 3:15, 6:25, 10:30; Wed-Thu 12:15, 3:30, 6:50, 10:15
SILVERCITY COQUITLAM & VIP CINEMAS 170 Schoolhouse St., Coquitlam, 604-523-2911, www.cineplex.com 2CREED Fri-Sun 12:45, 1:00, 3:55, 4:20, 7:05, 7:40, 10:15, Times are current as of Friday, December 4 10:50; Mon-Tue, Thu 12:45, 3:55, 4:20, 7:05, 7:35, 10:15, 10:45; Wed 3:55, 4:20, 7:05, 7:35, CINEPLEX FIFTH AVENUE CINEMAS 10:15, 10:45; Stars & Strollers Wed 12:45 2110 Burrard St., Vancouver, 604-734-7469, www.cineplex.com 2THE MARTIAN Fri-Thu 2THE GOOD DINOSAUR Fri, Sun-Thu 1:30, 4:05, 6:40, 9:15; Sat 11:00, 1:30, 4:05, 6:40, 9:15 3:20 2ROOM Fri-Thu 12:20, 3:15, 6:10, 9:10 2THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY, 2SPECTRE Fri-Thu 12:25, 3:40, 7:00, 10:15 PART 2 Fri-Sat 12:30, 12:35, 1:20, 1:40, 3:45, 3:50, 2SPOTLIGHT Fri-Thu 1:30, 4:30, 7:30, 10:30 4:30, 5:00, 6:55, 7:10, 7:40, 8:15, 10:05, 10:30, 2TRUMBO Fri-Thu 12:45, 3:45, 6:40, 9:35 10:50; Sun 12:30, 12:35, 1:30, 1:40, 3:45, 3:50, 4:35, 5:00, 6:55, 7:10, 7:40, 8:15, 10:05, 10:30, CINEPLEX ODEON INTERNATIONAL 10:50; Mon, Wed 12:35, 1:20, 3:45, 3:50, 4:30, VILLAGE CINEMAS 88 W. Pender, 5:30, 6:55, 7:05, 7:40, 8:45, 10:05, 10:25, 10:45; Vancouver, 604-806-0799, www.cineplex. Tue 12:35, 1:20, 3:45, 3:50, 4:30, 5:30, 6:55, 7:05, com 2BRIDGE OF SPIES Fri-Sat 1:05, 7:20; 7:40, 8:45, 10:05, 10:25, 10:50; Thu 12:35, 1:20, Sun 7:20; Mon-Tue, Thu 1:05, 7:15; Wed 1:05 3:45, 3:50, 4:30, 5:30, 7:05, 7:40, 8:45, 10:25, 2BROOKLYN Fri, Sun 1:30, 4:15, 6:50, 9:30; 10:45 2KRAMPUS Fri-Sun, Tue 12:15, 2:45, Sat 1:35, 4:20, 6:50, 9:30; Mon-Thu 1:30, 4:15, 5:15, 7:50, 10:25; Mon, Wed 2:10, 4:45, 7:50, 6:55, 9:35 2FALL IN LOVE LIKE A STAR FriSun 12:35, 3:00, 5:25, 7:55, 10:25; Mon-Thu 1:20, 10:25; Thu 1:45, 4:20, 7:50, 10:25 2LEGEND Fri-Tue, Thu 1:05, 4:10, 7:15, 10:20; Wed 4:30, 7:25, 9:55 2THE GOOD DINOSAUR 4:10, 7:15, 10:20; Stars & Strollers Wed 1:00 Fri, Sun 2:10, 4:40, 6:55, 9:25; Sat 11:40, 2:10, 2THE MARTIAN Fri-Thu 3:50 2THE NIGHT 4:40, 6:55, 9:25; Mon-Thu 1:15, 3:45, 6:50, 9:20 BEFORE Fri-Sat, Tue 12:25, 2:55, 5:25, 8:00, 2LEGEND Fri-Sun 1:00, 4:00, 7:15, 10:15; 10:35; Sun 1:15, 5:25, 8:00, 10:35; Mon, WedMon-Thu 1:00, 3:55, 6:45, 9:50 2OUR TIMES Thu 2:15, 4:50, 7:35, 10:10 2THE PEANUTS Fri-Sun 12:45, 3:45, 6:45, 9:50; Mon-Thu 1:10, MOVIE Fri-Sun, Tue 2:35, 5:00; Mon, Wed4:10, 7:10, 10:15 2THE PEANUTS MOVIE FriThu 4:00 2THE PRIESTS Fri-Thu 1:40, 4:25, Sat 3:05, 5:35; Sun 3:05, 5:30; Mon-Thu 4:05 7:10, 9:55 2SPECTRE Fri-Sat 12:00, 12:00, 12:35, 2ROOM Fri-Sun 10:30; Mon-Thu 10:20 2A 2:10, 3:15, 3:20, 3:55, 5:40, 6:40, 6:45, 7:20, 9:15, ROYAL NIGHT OUT Fri-Sun 12:30, 2:55, 5:15, 10:05, 10:10, 10:45; Sun 12:00, 12:00, 2:10, 3:15, 7:45, 10:10; Mon-Thu 2:00, 4:45, 7:35, 10:10 2A 3:20, 3:50, 5:40, 6:40, 6:45, 7:20, 9:15, 10:05, SECOND CHANCE Fri-Thu 12:50, 3:50, 7:00, 10:10, 10:45; Mon, Wed 12:35, 1:10, 3:15, 3:55, 10:00 2SECRET IN THEIR EYES Fri-Sat, MonThu 4:25; Sun 4:35 2SPOTLIGHT Fri-Sun 12:55, 4:35, 4:50, 6:35, 7:15, 8:00, 8:15, 10:00, 10:40; Tue 12:00, 12:35, 3:15, 3:20, 3:55, 4:50, 6:35, 3:55, 7:05, 10:05; Mon-Thu 12:55, 3:50, 7:05, 10:05 2TRUMBO Fri-Sun 1:25, 4:20, 7:10, 10:05; 6:45, 7:20, 8:15, 10:00, 10:10, 10:45; Thu 12:35, 1:10, 3:15, 3:55, 4:30, 4:50, 6:35, 7:15, 8:15, 10:00, Mon-Thu 1:25, 4:20, 7:30, 10:20 2VICTOR 10:40 2SPOTLIGHT Fri-Thu 1:15, 4:20, 7:25, FRANKENSTEIN Fri-Sun 10:30; Mon-Tue, Thu 10:30 2TRUMBO Fri-Thu 12:50, 3:50, 6:50, 9:10; Wed 9:40 9:50 2VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN Fri-Sun, Tue CINEPLEX ODEON PARK & TILFORD 10:00; Mon, Wed-Thu 9:00 333 Brooksbank Ave., North Vancouver, SILVERCITY METROPOLIS CINEMAS 604-985-4215, www.cineplex.com 2THE 4700 Kingsway Ave, Burnaby, 604-435-7474, GOOD DINOSAUR Fri, Mon, Wed 6:50; www.cineplex.com 2CREED Fri, Sun-Thu Sat 11:30, 2:00, 4:30, 5:10, 6:50; Sun 2:00, 1:00, 4:10, 7:20, 10:30; Sat 1:30, 4:25, 7:30, 10:30 4:30, 5:10, 6:50; Tue 4:20, 6:50; Stars & Strollers Thu 1:00 2THE HUNGER GAMES: 2THE GOOD DINOSAUR Fri-Thu 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 10:00 2THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY, PART 2 Fri 7:10, 10:20; SatMOCKINGJAY, PART 2 Fri-Sun 12:45, 1:20, Sun 12:50, 4:00, 7:10, 10:20; Mon, Wed-Thu 3:50, 4:30, 7:00, 7:40, 10:10, 10:50; Mon-Tue 6:55, 9:45; Tue 4:00, 6:55, 9:45 2KRAMPUS 12:30, 1:10, 3:30, 4:20, 6:45, 7:25, 10:05, 10:30; Fri 7:20, 9:55; Sat 11:45, 2:15, 4:50, 7:20, Wed 1:10, 4:20, 6:45, 7:25, 10:05, 10:30; Thu 9:55; Sun 2:15, 4:50, 7:20, 9:55; Mon, Wed1:00, 4:00, 6:45, 10:05 2IN THE HEART OF Thu 7:00, 9:45; Tue 4:10, 7:00, 9:45 2THE THE SEA Thu 10:20 2KRAMPUS Fri-Thu 12:15, PEANUTS MOVIE Sat-Sun 5:05; Tue 4:30; 2:45, 5:20, 7:50, 10:25 2THE MARTIAN FriStars & Strollers Thu 1:00 2SPECTRE Fri Thu 3:05 2THE NIGHT BEFORE Fri-Sun 12:35, 7:00, 10:10; Sat-Sun 12:00, 3:15, 7:00, 10:10; 3:00, 5:30, 8:05, 10:40; Mon-Thu 12:35, 3:00, Mon, Wed-Thu 6:45, 9:30; Tue 3:30, 6:45, 5:30, 8:05, 10:35 2THE PEANUTS MOVIE Fri9:30 Sun 3:00; Mon-Thu 2:50 2SPECTRE Fri-Sun CINEPLEX ODEON STRAWBERRY 12:30, 3:55, 7:15, 10:35; Mon-Thu 12:25, 3:40, HILL 12161 72nd Ave, Surrey, 604-501-9420, 7:00, 10:15 2VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN Fri-Sun www.cineplex.com 2CREED Fri-Wed 7:50, 10:25; Mon-Thu 7:30, 10:05 1:00, 4:10, 7:15, 10:15; Thu 1:00, 4:10 2THE SILVERCITY RIVERPORT CINEMAS GOOD DINOSAUR Fri-Tue, Thu 12:05, 2:30, 14211 Entertainment Way, Richmond, 6045:00, 7:25, 9:50; Wed 2:30, 5:00, 7:25, 9:50; 277-5993, www.cineplex.com 2CREED Stars & Strollers Wed 1:00 2THE HUNGER Fri-Thu 1:00, 4:10, 7:20, 10:30 2FALL IN GAMES: MOCKINGJAY, PART 2 Fri-Tue, LOVE LIKE A STAR Fri-Thu 1:30, 4:00, 6:50, Thu 1:15, 4:30, 7:30, 10:30; Wed 4:30, 7:30, 9:40 2THE GOOD DINOSAUR Fri, Sun, 10:30; Stars & Strollers Wed 1:00 2JUDGE Tue 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 10:00; Sat 11:00, SINGH LLB Fri-Thu 12:50, 4:00, 7:00, 10:00 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 10:00; Mon 2:00, 4:30, 2KRAMPUS Fri-Thu 12:20, 2:45, 5:20, 7:55, 7:00, 9:30; Wed 2:00, 4:30, 7:30, 10:00; Thu 10:20 2MUKHTIAR CHADHA Fri, Sun-Tue, 4:30, 7:00, 9:30; Stars & Strollers Thu 2:00 Thu 12:25, 3:35, 6:55, 9:55; Sat 1:20, 4:10, 6:55, 9:55; Wed 11:50, 4:00, 6:55, 9:55 2THE 2THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY, NIGHT BEFORE Fri-Thu 12:35, 3:00, 5:25, 7:45, PART 2 Fri-Wed 12:40, 3:50, 7:10, 10:20; Thu 12:40, 3:50 2IN THE HEART OF THE 10:10 2THE PEANUTS MOVIE Fri-Thu 5:15 SEA IMAX Thu 7:00 2IN THE HEART OF 2PREM RATAN DHAN PAYO Fri-Thu 12:00, THE SEA IMAX 3D Thu 10:00 2JUDGE 3:25, 6:45, 10:05 2SPECTRE Fri-Thu 12:05, SINGH LLB Fri-Sun, Tue 12:20, 3:30, 6:30, 3:20, 6:35, 9:45 2TAMASHA Fri-Thu 12:15, 9:45; Mon, Wed-Thu 12:30, 3:30, 6:30, 3:15, 6:30, 9:40 2VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN 9:45 2KRAMPUS Fri-Sun, Tue 12:15, 2:45, Fri-Thu 10:00 5:20, 7:50, 10:25; Mon, Wed-Thu 2:15, 4:50, CINEPLEX PARK THEATRE 3440 Cambie 7:35, 10:25 2LEGEND Fri-Thu 1:00, 4:15, St., 3440 Cambie St., 604-709-3456, www. 7:30, 10:45 2THE MARTIAN Fri-Thu 3:50 cineplex.com 2BROOKLYN Fri 3:50, 6:40, 2MUKHTIAR CHADHA Fri-Thu 1:15, 4:20, 9:30; Sat 1:10, 3:50, 6:40, 9:30; Sun 1:10, 3:50, 7:25, 10:25 2THE NIGHT BEFORE Fri-Sun, 6:30, 9:15; Mon, Wed-Thu 6:30, 9:15; Tue Tue 12:30, 3:00, 5:30, 8:05, 10:40; Mon, Wed3:50, 6:30, 9:15 Thu 1:40, 4:35, 7:35, 10:20 2OUR TIMES FriSun, Tue 12:10, 3:25, 6:40, 9:55; Mon, WedDUNBAR THEATRE 4555 Dunbar St. at Thu 12:50, 3:40, 6:40, 9:55 2THE PEANUTS 30 Ave., Vancouver, 604-222-2991, https:// MOVIE Fri-Thu 5:30 2SHE REMEMBERS, www.facebook.com/DunbarTheatre HE FORGETS Fri-Thu 1:30, 4:15, 7:10, 10:05 2THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY, 2SPECTRE Fri-Sun, Tue 12:10, 3:40, 7:20, PART 2 Fri-Thu 3:30, 7:00, 9:50 10:45; Mon, Wed-Thu 12:35, 3:55, 7:20, 10:45 OMNIMAX THEATRE 1455 Quebec St., 2SPOTLIGHT Fri-Sun, Tue 12:25, 3:45, 7:00, 10:10; Mon, Wed 12:45, 3:45, 7:00, 10:10; Vancouver, 604-443-7443, www.scienceworld.ca/omnimax 2D-DAY: NORMANDY Thu 12:45, 3:45, 7:40, 10:40 2TAMASHA Fri-Sun, Tue 12:05, 3:15, 6:45, 10:10; Mon, 1944 Fri-Thu 1:00 2HUMPBACK WHALES Wed-Thu 12:30, 3:35, 6:45, 10:10 2VICTOR Fri-Thu 12:00, 2:00 2SANTA VS. THE FRANKENSTEIN Fri-Thu 10:30 SNOWMAN Fri-Thu 3:00
FIRST-RUN SHOWTIMES
RIO THEATRE 1660 E. Broadway, Vancouver, 604-878-3456, www.riotheatre. ca 2HAIDA GWAII: ON THE EDGE OF THE WORLD Sun 3:00 2A HORSE ON THE BALCONY Sun 12:30 2LIFE Sun 9:20; Mon 9:00; Wed 6:45 2REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE Mon, Wed 6:45 2SE7EN Fri 12:00 2THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 Wed 9:00 SCOTIABANK THEATRE VANCOUVER 900 Burrard St., Vancouver, 604-630-1407, www.cineplex.com 2CREED Fri, Sun, Tue 12:20, 1:00, 3:25, 4:10, 6:40, 7:20, 9:50, 10:30; Sat 9:45, 12:20, 1:00, 3:25, 4:10, 6:40, 7:20,
VANCOUVER AQUARIUM 4D EXPERIENCE THEATRE 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, 604-659-3474, vanaqua.org 2THE POLAR EXPRESS 4-D EXPERIENCE Fri, Mon-Thu 11:15, 12:30, 1:45, 3:00, 4:15; Sat-Sun 11:15 am (every 30 minutes until 4:15 pm)
TIME OUT MOVIE LISTINGS are a public service provided free of charge, based on available space. Every effort is made to acquire accurate weekly movie listings by press time, but info is subject to change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please confirm films and times by checking the cinema’s website.
GIFT GUIDE
Christmas craft markets offer unique finds > BY L UC Y LA U
T
he holiday season is officially upon us and with that comes an onslaught of panicked shoppers who only seem to multiply as we creep closer to the 25th. But if you’re looking to avoid a mad dash to the mall—and the same old greeting cards and generic bath sets that typically come with it—there are plenty of craft markets that should have the bottom of your tree stocked with unique, handmade fashion well before the big day. Here are five festive markets happening around the city, where you can find one-off, locally produced items like cross-stitched scienceinspired ornaments, handcrafted sterling-silver jewellery, small-batch seasonal liquors, and more. MAKE IT! VANCOUVER (At the PNE Forum from Thursday to Sunday [December 3 to 6]) Don’t expect to hear a loop of cheesy Christmas tunes at Make It!—a danceable playlist of oldies, feel-good beats, and urban chart-toppers is just one of the many attractions at the East Van fair. The others? A fully licensed beer garden pouring Parallel 49 brews; some of the city’s most indemand food trucks; and more than 250 up-and-coming designers selling an eclectic range of home décor, art, apparel, and beyond. New this year: Maritime transplants Lara Ripley and Gerry Cleary of Broken Fog Art & Apparel hand-paint and illustrate a collection of digital art prints, but it’s pyrography they’re drawn to the most. Check out the duo’s Parks and Recreation woodburning, which features an original drawing of the show’s tough-asnails star Ron Swanson etched into a slab of sustainably sourced wood. Returning fave: Science nerds will get a kick out of Craft Geeks’ homemade goods, which include ornaments fashioned after DNA, handstitched microscope and pipette tree hangings, and scented candles set in beakers. Equally charming (and kid-friendly) are Him Creations’ felt animals (rounded hippos, smiling bears, and miniature owls), which are hand-knit from pure wool.
Left to right: Crafty Geeks, Westerly Shoes, Him Creations, heyday designs, Honey Gifts, Chez Christophe, Strathcona stockings, and Lia Hood. Tracey Kusiewicz photo.
goods to funky wood-fired ceramics and hand-loomed Turkish-style linens. A limited-edition tea towel designed by Toronto-based illustrator Walter Scott will also be up for grabs, with all proceeds supporting the artist-run centre’s year-round art and music programs. New this year: Designer Ryley O’Byrne launched Strathcona Stockings a mere five years ago but her quirky socks have already made the pages of Harper’s Bazaar, NYLON, and beyond. From florals and ’shrooms to schoolyard doodles and dreamy, intergalactic spheres, beautiful art, both weird and fashionforward, adorns each pair. Returning fave: Colouring’s not just for kids—at least when it comes to Draw Me a Lion’s fanciful calendars and books. Designer Lisa Cinar creates each illustration herself, many depicting a variety of cartoonish animals and intricate blooms. She also has DIY postcards and greeting cards available, which you can colTOQUE (At the Western Front from our in before sending them off. Friday to Sunday [December 4 to 6]) The Western Front’s annual fundraiser GOT CRAFT? (At the Pipe Shop returns for its 40th year at the historic Building [115 Victory Ship Way, Luxe Hall, where an exquisitely cur- North Vancouver] on December ated list of local makers will be on- 12 and 13) A weekend of treasuresite with everything from geometric hunting and creative crafting awaits bead necklaces and small-run leather on the North Shore, where you can
shop a staggering mix of handmade goods—including greeting cards, toys, accessories, and foodstuff— from 80 designers who hail from all across Canada. Be one of the first 50 attendees through the door and you’ll be rewarded with a swag bag, plus ample time to take part in a hand-sewing, letterpress, or minipiñata-making workshop. New this year: We love Lia Hood’s artful jewellery, which the designer makes from sterling silver and a variety of gemstones. Angular shapes and powerful symbols like serpents and shields decorate her rings, cuffs, and earrings, acting as personal talismans for the wearer. Returning fave: Honey Canada reimagines the possibilities of wool, needle-felting the cozy material into an array of whimsical figures like hedgehogs, toadstools, and acorns. For the holidays, don’t miss the adorable snowman ornaments, or the colourful felt-ball wreaths and Christmas trees. SHINY FUZZY MUDDY (At Heri-
tage Hall on December 12 and 13) Embrace the “slow fashion” movement, which champions handcrafted and ethically sourced material,
at Shiny Fuzzy Muddy, a “design fair” that draws more than 25 local artists under one roof. Expect carefully constructed goods like chic eco-friendly scarves, bright handspun planters, modern rings, and teapots with intricate, individually carved florals from a group of talented makers who call B.C. and Alberta home. New this year: The daughter of a seamstress and a carpenter, designer Renée Macdonald handcrafts shoes that abide by Old World traditions. Her made-to-order boots, sandals, and loafers—available under the moniker Westerly Handmade Shoes—are built from quality leathers and customizable to the very last detail. Returning fave: Cast in an all-white palette, each vintage-inspired ceramic home object by heyday designs is made in a lengthy process that involves more than 30 meticulous steps. Alongside mod Mason jars, napkin rings, and decorative pop cans, you can find a collection of ceramic jewellery that includes geometric earrings, necklaces, and brooches. VANCOUVER FARMERS MARKET
(At the Croatian Cultural Centre on December 12 and 13) If you think the Vancouver Farmers Market
finds are limited to homegrown produce and gourmet food, think again. In addition to a dizzying array of locally crafted treats, the market’s holiday iteration will feature 60-plus vendors hawking a wide selection of handmade jewellery, textiles, bath products, and more. For the first time, you can also pick up seasonal bottles of craft beer, wine, and spirits—all of which are concocted in the city. New this year: Shake up your holiday cocktail game with a range of small-batch spirits from East Van distillery Odd Society Spirits. The house’s East Van Vodka, Wallflower Gin, and Mongrel moonshine have earned spots on the shelves of restaurant and at-home bars alike, though we recommend the Crème de Cassis for a festive—and very gift-able—imbibe. Returning fave: Sensitive-skin solutions abound at the Other Eden, where you can find fragrant soaps, nourishing face oils, hydrating body creams, and more. Handmade from natural, sustainably sourced ingredients, the soaps come in a myriad of particularly welcome aromas, including eucalyptus peppermint, rosemary lavender, and sandalwood. -
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Giving time is good for your health
F
or Janelle Hutchinson, it’s never been a question of if she would volunteer but where. The West Vancouver mother of two started with Big Sisters when she was 20; over the years, she’s helped all sorts of organizations, sometimes having her kids join in too. For Hutchinson, volunteering isn’t just one more thing to cross off her to-do list; rather, it’s a personal core value. “I’ve always believed that volunteering is an essential part of life,” she tells the Georgia Straight in a phone interview. “It’s part of living; it’s crucial. I always feel like I get more back than what I give. I always have something on the go. There’s such a variety of things you can do even with what little amount of time you might have.” Hutchinson and her two kids, now aged 15 and 17, have signed up with North Shore Volunteers for Seniors, assisting a blind man in his 90s for about four years now; they’ve helped serve Christmas dinner at North Shore Neighbourhood House every year for the past eight. The family has visited orJanelle Hutchinson volunteers her time with a number of local organizations, phanages and schools in developand she has visited orphanages and schools in developing countries. ing countries. Currently, Hutchinson volun“I just admired their whole phi- of volunteers like Hutchinson. teers once a week at Canuck Place losophy, their holistic approach of If that isn’t reason enough to Children’s Hospice, an internation- helping families,” says Hutchinson, give your time, research has found ally recognized who, with a back- that volunteering is good for your provider of pediground in nutri- health. A study published in Psychatric palliativetion, works in the ology and Aging in 2013 found a care. Celebrating kitchen. “I like correlation between volunteerGail Johnson its 20th anniverthe idea of food as ing and low blood pressure. Even sary this year, Canuck Place pro- nurturing, and that’s a big part of the when factors such as age, health, vides advanced physician and nurs- whole place. And there’s always lots and gender are taken into account, ing care, medical respite, pain and of dishes and cleaning up to do. when individuals volunteer, they’re symptom management, family sup“It’s a great place,” she adds. “You more likely to live longer, accordport, end-of-life care, and ongoing definitely feel valued, and it’s neat ing to the Washington, D.C.–based bereavement services to more than to see all the people that help out by Corporation for National and Com600 newborns, children, and teens giving their time and energy.” munity Service. Its 2007 Health at a time who have a progressive Canuck Place is just one of hun- Benefits of Volunteering review life-limiting condition and their dreds of health-related organizations found that volunteer activities can families throughout the province. in the province that rely on the support strengthen the social ties that protect
Health
people from isolation during difficult times, while the experience of helping others leads to a greater sense of self-worth and trust. Getting started is simple: contact a place that’s near and dear to your heart directly and ask what volunteer positions are available or visit govolunteer.ca/, which has postings from more than 1,500 nonprofit groups. Here are some current examples: Coast Mental Health needs a guitar teacher. Yaletown House Society needs a walking companion for seniors. The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society requires people to cook for 50 to 60 people in its elders program. The Vancouver Association for Survivors of Torture needs a treasurer. Special Olympics B.C. needs coaches. The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is in need of an LGBTQ support-group facilitator. The German-Canadian Care Home needs a dog and owner for pet visits. The list goes on. Arnold Sweet has been volunteering at the B.C. Cancer Agency twice a week for more than five years, greeting new patients and helping them find their way to their first appointment, among other tasks. “It’s difficult to put it into words, but it’s a satisfying feeling,” Sweet says in a phone call. “It’s nice to be able to offer a free cup of coffee to patients, and they say it’s so nice to see a friendly smile when they get here. When you get that type of response, it makes you feel like maybe you are making a difference. Maybe I’ve eased their pain just a little bit or taken their mind off of their stress. Volunteers do make a difference.” Lisa Kenyon, regional coordinator for the B.C. Cancer Agency’s Vancouver Centre volunteer services, says the agency has about 140 volunteers. see next page
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DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 29
Giving time
STRAIGHT WRAPPED FOR THE HOLIDAYS
FOR THE GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING
PLEASURE MATE COLLECTION BY WE-VIBE It combines the rechargeable, waterproof Tango vibe with a silicone g-spot massager (Glow) and a beginner’s back-end toy (Dusk). A perfect gift for your lover (or yourself!). $199 at Womyns’ Ware 896 Commercial Dr. www.womynsware.com
from previous page
About 35 percent are university or college students, 40 percent are retired, and 20 percent are working. Approximately 65 percent of volunteers are former patients or family members of patients. “We are grateful for the weekly commitment of this group of dedicated people who come faithfully in support of cancer patients and their families,” Kenyon says. Eric Beddis is another long-time volunteer, having donated his time as a board member for the Down Syndrome Research Foundation, Benefits of Bocce (which once raised more than $300,000 for various health organizations with a local bocce tournament), and Big Brothers, in addition to other roles over the years. For the last two, he’s been the board chair of TB Vets.
He’s motivated by the goal of helping the organization make the public aware that TB Vets is much more than a key-tag provider. In fact, it funds education for respiratory therapists, research, and life-saving respiratory equipment used to treat people of all ages in hospitals across the province. Through its BreatheBC Challenge, TB Vets aims to provide 100 ventilators for 100 B.C. hospitals, including “oxygen blenders” used by premature babies. “Volunteering is a very personal thing,” Beddis tells the Straight. “If you decide to volunteer, you must contribute—participate—and not just be in attendance, which is very common.…By volunteering, you are giving back to your community. “In today’s world, where so many people need help, more individuals could get involved,” he adds. “By volunteering, you bring a smile to someone’s face.” -
GIFTS FOR CHARITY HOLIDAY GIFT BASKET ($99) All proceeds from this collection of goodies, delivered in a reusable bag, go to the Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House. Buying this basket also helps local businesses. It contains olive oil and balsamic vinegar from Di Oliva Tasting Bar, smoked salmon from Skipper Otto’s Community Supported Fishery, popcorn from Gourmet Warehouse, sausages from Wing Wing, stationery from Opus Art Supplies, coffee and chocolate from East Van Roasters, gourmet jam from East Van Jam, pasta from Bosa Foods, green tea from Beijing Trading, a snack mix from West Coast Gourmet Snacks, and Dijon mustard from the DTES Neighbourhood House Kitchen and Famous Foods. There’s free delivery to Vancouver, Burnaby, the North Shore, New Westminster, and Surrey. For more information, email admin@dtesnhouse.ca.
SUTIL FINE BOTANICAL LUBRICANT Locally made and eco certified, Sutil is a luxurious, plant-sourced lube that stays wet for a really long time. It’s scent-free, taste-free, and the sexy and discreet packaging is biodegradable. $30 at Womyns’ Ware 896 Commercial Drive www.womynsware.com
TOY DRIVE From this Saturday (December 5) to Tuesday (December 8), expect to see hundreds of Donnelly Group employees converge on the Toys “R” Us store on West Broadway. That’s because their employer has given each of them a $50 gift certificate to buy presents for the company’s 14th annual toy drive. Staff will bring their unwrapped gifts to the company’s party at Republic Nightclub (958 Granville Street) on Tuesday. Festivities begin at 11 p.m. and the public is also invited to bring gifts, which will be handed over to the Salvation Army. The Donnelly Group’s toy drive raises more than $40,000 worth of donations each year to help needy kids in our community. -
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Anxiety? Depression? Free Mental Wellness Support Group held on Saturdays (10:30 am – 12:30) Promotes a holistic approach to healing (body, mind & spirit). Networking and interactive learning experience in a safe, non-judgmental environment. For more information call 604-630-6865 or visit www.mentalwellnessbc.ca
SUPPORT GROUPS Anorexics & Bulimics Anonymous 12 Step based peer support program which addresses the mental, emotional, & spiritual aspects of disordered eating Tuesdays @ 7 pm @ Avalon Women's Centre 5957 West Blvd - 604-263-7177 SEXAHOLICS ANONYMOUS - Vancouver, BC For those desiring their own sexual sobriety, please go to www.sa.org for meetings times and places. We are here to help you from being overwhelmed. Newcomers are gratefully welcomed.
Distress Line & Suicide Prevention Services NEED SOME ONE TO TALK TO? Call us for immediate, free, confidential and non-judgemental support, 24 hours a day, everyday. The Crisis Centre in Vancouver can help you cope more effectively with stressful situations. 604-872-3311
Van Chronic Pain Support Group
Equal Parenting Group - North Vancouver Support group for fathers going through the divorce process needing help. Call 604-692-5613 Email:nspg@mybox.com
www.vanchronicpain.com
Women Survivors of Incest Anonymous A 12 Step based peer support program. Wed @ 7pm @ Avalon Women's Centre 5957 West Blvd 604-263-7177 also www.siawso.org
Free bi-monthly group: pain management skills and mutual support. All welcome! September 22, 2015, every other Tuesday 6:30-8:30pm, Waves Coffee House 900 Howe
Help make holiday WISHES come true! $20 buys a holiday dinner for 4 women at WISH!
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Give online: wish-vancouver.net Or call us: 604.669.9474! “I just wanted to thank you for all that you do. Without organizations like you giving women like I was - kindness, care and compassion - I wouldn’t be where I am today.” - Former WISH Participant
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GEORGIA STRAIGHT STRAIGHT DECEMBER DECEMBER33––10 10//2015 2015 30 THE GEORGIA
ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION Looking to start a parent support group in Kitsilano. Please call Barbara 604 737 8337
Join a FREE YWCA Single Mothers support group in your local community. Share information, experiences and resources. Child care is provided for a nominal fee. For information call 604-895-5789 or Email: smacdonald@ywcavan.org Join a FREE YWCA Single Mothers support group in your local community. Share information, experiences and resources. Child care is provided for a nominal fee. For information call 604-895-5789 or Email: smacdonald@ywcavan.org
LifeRing - Sobriety your Way
Sound Different? Men & Women supporting each other in a friendly, non-judgemental environment based on abstinence, secularity & self-help Van: @ Vancouver Daytox 377 E. 2nd Sat @ 4pm Maple Ridge: @ The CEED Centre 11739 - 223 St Sundays 1:30pm www.liferingcanada.org or www.lifering.org Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA) Do you have a problem with sex and love relationships. You are not alone. SLAA is a 12 Step 12 Tradition oriented fellowship for those who suffer from sex and love addiction. Leave a message on our phone line and somebody will call you back for meeting time and locations. 604 515-5423 Is your life affected by someone else's drug use? Nar-Anon Family Group Meeting Every Friday 7:30-9:00 pm at Barclay Manor, 1447 Barclay
Nar-Anon 604 878-8844
The Compassionate Friends (TCF) Burnaby TCF is a grief support group for parents who have experienced the loss of a child, at any age. Meet the last Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. For location call Grace: 778-222-0446 "We Need Not Walk Alone" compassionatecircle@hotmail.com Burnaby@TCFCanada.net www.tcfcanada.net Vancouver Society for Sexuality, Gender & Culture Educational group with monthly meetings are planned for: 1st Tuesday of each month, 6:30 PM 8:30 PM Vancouver Public Library - Firehall Branch 1455 W 10th Ave (by Granville St next to the Firehall) All are welcome, and we are looking for Board Members from the Health, Counseling, Education, and Business Professions Info: Michael or Darren: VSSGC@yahoogroups.ca Have you been injured in a car accident? Are you stressed out? Do you feel isolated or like no one understands what you are going through? A new drop in support group is here with a focus on improving your quality of life. 7 pm Mondays @ Roundhouse Community centre $5.00 drop in. For info please call 604-219-0659 Concerns of Growing Old? If you are 60 plus and find yourself alone, let's talk and support each other 604-682-3269 ext 7101
1807 Burrard St (@ 2nd) • 604.336-4448 1232 Burrard St (@ Davie) • 604-428-2420 2580 Kingsway (@ 34th) • 604-336-0420 2619 W. 4th Ave (@ Bayswater) • 604-336-6420 211 E. 16th Ave (@ Main) • 604-336-5420 6657 Main St (@ 51st) • 604-336-7420
Healing Our Spirit B.C. First Nations AIDS Society has volunteer opportunities for hospital visitation, information booths, office assistance & preparation of pamphlets & condoms for distribution. We offer volunteer orientation, training & recognition & bus tickets. If interested, please call 983-8774 Ext. 13. We are dedicated to preventing and reducing the spread of HIV in the aboriginal communities of B.C. Infertility Awareness Assoc. of Canada (IAAC) provides educational material & support to individuals or couples experiencing infertility. Meetings: 7 pm the 2nd Wed of the month. Richmond Library & Cultural Centre, 7700 Minoru Gate. Info 523-0074 or www.iaac.ca
MOOD DISORDERS
SUPPORT GROUPS We have peer-led support groups all over the Lower Mainland for people with depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety led by well-trained facilitators. Group sessions during days, evenings, or Saturdays. For location and times of groups:
www.mdabc.net 604-873-0103 Parkinson Society BC
offers over 50 volunteer-led support groups throughout BC. These provide people with Parkinson's, their carepartners & families an opportunity to meet in a friendly, supportive setting with others who are experiencing similar difficulties. Some groups may offer exercise support. For information on locating a support group near you, please contact PSBC at 604 662 3240 or toll free 1 800 668 3330. Fertility Support Group Discover new perspectives make positive changes and learn simple tools to take charge of your reproductive wellness while connecting with other women. The meetings provide a space for open discussion. 2nd Tuesday of each month 7:45 - 8:45pm (Sign up required) Reg & Info call: 604-266-6470 or www.familypassages.ca IBD Support Group Suffer from Crohn's and ulcerative colitis? Living with IBD can often be overwhelming, but you're not alone! 3rd Wed of each month the GI Society holds a free IBD support group meeting for patients & their families to come together in an open, friendly environment. 7:00pm at RavenSong Community Health Centre (2450 Ontario St). or more information call 604-875-4875. LIVING THROUGH LOSS COUNSELLING facilitated support group for people who are grieving the death of a significant person. Monthly drop-in- last Wed of every month YLTLC #201 – 1847 W. Broadway Van. 604-873-5013 www.ltlc.bc.ca Healthy & loving relationships alluding you? CODA: Co-dependency Anonymous 12 step Recovery: 604- 515-5585
866 East Broadway • 604-876-2163 5038 Victoria Dr (@ 34th) • 778-379-4420 1108 Richards St (@ Helmcken) • 604-891-1420 991 Marine Dr (North Van) • 778-340-2420 11295 Clearbrook Rd (Abbotsford) • 1-604-746-0420 5536A Wharf Street (Sechelt) • 1-604-885-0191
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Free Educational Forum to make sense of chronic hives Come spend an evening exploring the latest in living with chronic hives or chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) Living with CIU can be a challenge on many levels – sometimes just getting diagnosed can be a struggle. If you’re currently being treated for CIU or have chronic hives and are looking for some answers, please join our expert for an evening forum that’s sure to be interactive and informative. When:
December 9, 2015 – talk to begin at 5:30 pm
Where:
Trout Lake Community Centre - Lakewood Room 3350 Victoria Dr. Vancouver, BC V5N 4M4
Speaker:
Dr. Amin Kanani
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn more about chronic hives or CIU from an expert! Places are limited; kindly RSVP to Michelle Li at michelle@bmodgroup.com. This evening is brought to you by one of Canada’s leading pharmaceutical companies. PRO/CIU/0025
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32 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
GIFT GUIDE
(Left to right:) Take a bite out of the holidays with the Lemon Square (Erin Ireland photo); Chez Christophe turns Rudolph into a chocolate-nosed reindeer; F.I.S.H.’s maple and pepper candy is sweet and sustainable.
Holiday treats, delicious eats Whether to give as gifts or to spice up seasonal parties, these festive, locally made goodies will delight foodies and guests alike
And since the jams contain significantly less sugar than their mass-produced counterparts, you can bet that your hosts and foodie friends will feel good about slathering them on toast, scones, crackers, and more. They’re available at various stores and craft markets (eastvanjam.com/shop).
CITRUS DELIGHTS Vancouver, meet the Lemon
> LUCY LAU
that sells fresh, locally sourced ocean products. It’s going to be difficult to gift-wrap wild halibut or oysters for your dearest for the holidays. But how about packaged smoked-salmon jerky to pair with mulled wine for the festive season? F.I.S.H Smoked Jerky ($6.60/100 grams) is made with wild keta (or chum) salmon caught in Johnstone Strait. The company’s most popular smoked products are the Maple Candy and Pepper Candy ($4.85/100 grams) finger foods. Both are made with wild white spring salmon caught in Bella Coola. These savoury holiday gifts can be found at F.I.S.H’s storefront (180–7515 Market Crossing, Burnaby).
> TK SMOOTH LIKE BUTTER With outlandish flavours like peppercorn brandy, matcha dark chocolate, and Parmesan bacon, the Local Churn takes SALTY AND SWEET Healthy snacks tend to indulgence to a whole new level. Each 42-gram have a reputation for not being the tastiest. But round of butter is made from locally sourced in- a local company known for its wholesome prodgredients and is hand-churned to create a velvety- ucts has launched a great-tasting treat that’s smooth consistency—perfect for food pairing both delicious and nutritious. Naked Snacks is and entertaining. Pick from seasonal flavours like collaborating with Zimt Chocolates this holicranberry-orange-rosemary and a smoked pap- day season to bring a decadent twist to healthy rika, garlic, and parsley combo ($8 each), or give a munching, adding pieces of Zimt’s 70 percent trio of sweet or savoury varieties ($10), which the organic dark chocolate to the snack company’s > TAMMY KWAN lucky recipient can taste and experiment with for popular 3pm Goji mix. With its goji berries, weeks to come. They can be found at various stores dried cranberries, Bing cherries, cashews, and CHOCOLATE ART Award-winning pastry chef and and craft markets (thelocalchurn.ca/calendar/). pecans, hungry snackers will get an energy boost > LL when they indulge in this special-edition medmaster confectioner Christophe Bonzon has created a beautiful line of edible sculptures for his holiday ley. The snack can be purchased online (naked collection, inspired by the symbols of Christmas. SMOKIN’ GOOD Fresh Ideas Start Here (F.I.S.H) is snacks.ca/) and costs $29.95 for a box of five. > TK There’s everything from reindeer to modern Christ- a sustainable-seafood supplier with a retail location mas trees, Frosty the Snowman, and Santa Claus himself. These sweet works of art come in small ($17.95) and large ($39.95) sizes. Or entertain guests > BY LUCY LAU BREW TOURS FOR THE BEER LOVER at festive parties with holiday chocolate bars ($13.95) in flavours like cranberry with toasted sesame or peppermint, or choose from an assortment of handGiven that the craft-beer craze seems to be infiltrating every corner of the Lower Mainland—the range made truffles ($1.55 each). The chocolates may be of microbreweries now stretches as far as North Vancouver, Port Moody, and Delta—you’ll likely have gone before the guests even arrive. Chez Christophe at least one beer lover to impress this holiday season or, at the very least, a few beer-curious folk. products can be found at Chez Christophe ChocoEnter Vancouver Brewery Tours, whose experiential gift ideas should prove a hit with neophytes and laterie Patisserie (4712 Hastings Street, Burnaby). craft-beer devotees alike. The local company offers year-round excursions to a number of Vancouver’s most
Square. Handmade locally with fresh lemons and B.C. butter and sprinkled with coconut, these citrus squares are wrapped up into tiny brown packages and tied with a festive red ribbon. Ideal as a stocking stuffer, they come in two sizes: original ($3.50 each) and a mini share pack ($11) of 16 bite-sized pieces. You can also buy a dozen original squares for a special price ($33). Treats can be purchased online at thelemonsquare.ca/ or at stores, coffee shops, and holiday markets. (See the website for details.)
2
> TK
Handcrafted from fresh, B.C.–grown fruit—some sourced from Vancouver’s own back yards—East Van Jam’s scrumptious spreads are as eccentric as the neighbourhood they’re named after. From the pleasantly tart St. Clair Plum and sweet Madame Cherry to the soft-at-heart Barley Boss and posh, vodka-infused Ollie Onion, each jar ($11 for 250 mL) features a one-of-a-kind character on a playful label reflecting its tasty contents. EAST SIDE SPREAD
THINGS TO DO
popular breweries—including 33 Acres Brewing Company, Brassneck Brewery, Parallel 49 Brewing, and Storm Brewing—where participants are taken behind the tasting-room walls for an inside look at the beermaking process. For the holidays, you can snag Vancouver Brewery Tours’ new Beer Lover’s Holiday Gift Pack ($169 plus tax), which includes two tour passes, one 64-ounce growler and a fill-up, and a pair of snazzy souvenir beer glasses. The passes are good for a tour where your beer buff (and presumably you, as a plus-one) can soak in the VIP experience—plus about a pint’s worth of craft-beer samplers at each stop. It’s a lot more memorable (and gift-wrap-friendly) than the standard six-pack. Nab yours online (vancouverbrewerytours.com/ ) before December 10 and you’ll automatically be entered in a draw to win a private custom tour for 10. -
FOOD High five
Meal ticket HOLIDAY BRUNCH Before Old St. Nick hits the streets, join him and Mrs. Claus this Sunday (December 6) for an extravagant buffet brunch at Glowbal (590 West Georgia Street) benefiting the B.C. Women’s Hospital Foundation. Expect a luxe spread of more than 100 brunch items, including an ice display decked out with seafood; a build-your-own-omelette station; and tons of traditional favourites like eggs Benny, bacon, and sausage. Reservations for adults ($49) and kids ($22) can be made by phone (604-602-0835) or email (info@glowbal.ca). -
Skirt holiday cooking with these multicourse group menus
1
BAUHAUS (1 West Cordova Street [from $38]) Pick from schnitzel and halibut for lunch and beef, halibut, and duck for dinner.
2
FORAGE (1300 Robson Street [$35]) Feast family-style on roasted turkey or a hay-smoked pork rack with apple chutney.
3
YEW SEAFOOD + BAR (791 West Georgia Street [from $48]) From lobster bisque to roasted sablefish, seafood is the star throughout.
4
ROGUE KITCHEN & WETBAR (various locations [from $42]) Pumpkin crème brûlée and eggnog cheesecake are as timely as turkey.
5
WILD RICE (122–810 Quayside Drive [from $25]) Kung Po chicken, shrimp fried rice, and veggie spring rolls shake up the usual holiday fare.
Cocktail of the week
WINNING ’NOG There are few cocktails better suited to accompanying tree-decorating and gift-wrapping than eggnog. Last week at Kraken’s second annual Eggnog Cocktail competition, five local mixologists brought their unique takes on the drink to the table, but it was Tarquin Melnyk, bartender at Bambudda Gastown and writer at Justcocktails.org, who placed first with his umami approach to the classic holiday beverage. The unexpected savoury veal jus pairs well with the Caribbean notes of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg found within the Angostura aromatic bitters. Melnyk used natural wormwood bitters from his soon-to-launch company, Ms. Betters, and a touch of atomized Fernet Branca to finish. Find the recipe for this and four other takes on ’nog at www.straight.com/. -
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 33
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Brent Mills found his calling years ago, when he and his father brewed up a batch of ale at home. Amanda Siebert photo.
Delta brews get to the pint
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> B Y A D R IA N M A C K
S
FIRST GO-TO BRAND The brewery
I have probably given the most money to would be Pilsner Urquell. While planning and building our brewery I would always have more than a couple in my fridge.
traight to the Pint taps those on the frontlines of our booming local craft-beer industry for stories about biggest brewing successes, dream vacation spots, and which brand was LIFE-CHANGING BEER The beer that first confused the hell out of always in the family fridge. me and quickly turned into a desire WHO ARE YOU My name is Brent to understand how it was made was Mills and I am the brewmaster and Rodenbach Grand Cru. The sweetproduction manager of Four Winds ness, the vinegarlike acidity, and the Brewing in Delta, B.C. mild funk—it was like nothing I’d ever imagined. I still love that beer! YOUR DAD’S FAVOURITE BEER
Growing up, I remember my dad bringing home big brown bottles of beer that I was hoping were root beer, but it turned out they were bombers of Shaftebury cream ale, which at that time was located just blocks from where we are now. Nowadays, I can usually find his cup filled with FW IPA.
Menu Sunday - Thursday Only expires Jan. 14/2016
One coupon per table, cannot be combined with other discount items. Parties of 2-6 only. Minimum $25 purchase.
604.730.9963
1063 W. Broadway
Between Oak & Spruce www.kayamalay.com
I would have to say bike-packing through Europe with a heavy focus on Belgium, Germany, and the Czech Republic.
DREAM DESTINATION
The first beer I brewed was with my dad,
FIRST BEER BREWED
YEAST VAN GOES SOUTH
Greg. It was a Shirley’s Nutbrown Ale from Dan’s Homebrewing Supplies. We brewed it at my parents’ place, on their stove. It turned out quite well, and needless to say planted a seed! CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT Without a doubt, opening up this brewery is the thing I am most proud of, but being awarded Canadian brewery of the year at the Canadian Brewing Awards earlier this year is a very close second. I’D LOVE TO HAVE A BEER WITH
I’d love to have a few beers with Jean-Pierre van Roy of Cantillon (Brussels)! This is a condensed version of Straight to the Pint. Go to Straight. com for the full article and a bonus video feature.
> BY CHARLIE SMITH
already knew about East Van’s remarkable rise as a craft-brewing centre, but it’s nice to see it being 2 We acknowledged south of the border. The fourth-largest-circulation newspaper in the United States, the Los
Angeles Times, recently declared that “Yeast Van” is Canada’s capital of craft beer. Writer John Lee explained why in a tour of a bunch of East Side breweries, including Off the Rail, Bomber Brewing, Callister Brewing, Powell Street Brewing, Doan’s Craft Brewing, and Real Cask Brewing. The rise of tasting rooms is helping drive the industry, as are craft-beer havens like the Alibi Room, Darby’s Public House, Brassneck Brewery, Sunset Grill Tap House & Whiskey Bar, and other outlets. In his article, Lee refers to one of the industry centres, Hastings-Sunrise, by the newer name “East Village”, which will drive some of the old-timers a bit crazy. The NDP MLA for the area, Shane Simpson, has long been extolling the craft-beer industry as a magnet for tourism. Simpson isn’t mentioned in the Los Angeles Times article, but he’s no doubt delighted by all the trip-planning information at the bottom of the piece. It even mentions some of the most popular restaurants in his constituency: Tacofino Commissary, the Red Wagon Cafe, and Campagnolo Roma. Tourism Vancouver also gets a plug. -
JANUARY 15 – 31, 2016 dineoutvancouver.com
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Come Experience what Greece has to offer! Authentic Greek Food • Cozy Atmosphere • Friendly Service
Established in 1997 • Licensed
1830 Fir St., Vancouver • 604.736.9559
www.apolloniagreekrestaurant.com
LUNCH: Wed-Fri. 11:30am-2:30pm DINNER: Tues-Sun. 5:00pm-9:30pm
Closed Monday
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 35
STRAIGHT WRAPPED FOR THE HOLIDAYS ICE BREAKER Merinoloft Stratus. For frosty morning dog walks or rainy lunch breaks on the ridgeline; this lightweight jacket will keep you warm and dry. With woven merino next to skin, recycled wool insulation, and many fun colours to choose from, it’s the gift you’ll want to give yourself!
THE RIGHT SHOE With 230 years of shoe making experience, it’s safe to say that Birkenstock has footwear figured. Striking the perfect mix of comfort and style, they make the perfect gift for him or for her. There’s lots to choose from at The Right Shoe with Birkenstock’s collection of sandals, clogs, shoes and boots. Online or In-Store,
www.icebreaker.com 2089 West 4th Ave.
www.therightshoe.ca 1601 W 4th Ave.
THE NORTH FACE Women’s Arctic Down Parka. Quilted taffeta against the skin sounds like the perfect way to take the chill out the air this season. Stay snug and dry with this down filled, breathable and stylish barrier against winter snowstorms. A removable insulated hood with faux-fur trim adds a cozy touch. 3 Greater Vancouver Locations.
www.thenorthfacevancouver.ca 2136 West 4th Ave.
ADRENALINE Darth Vader Backpack. May the force be with you this holiday season when gifting this backpack to the super fan in your life. With a variety of merchandise from wallets to jewelry you’re sure to get all your Star Wars gear before the Force Awakens.
ADRENALINE Happy Birthday Jesus Sweater: Whether you’re making water into wine or kissing under the mistletoe, this sweater is going to make people smile. Many different styles available in store to make sure you have the best ‘Ugly’ Christmas sweater at the party.
www.shopadrenaline.ca 1926 West 4th Ave.
www.shopadrenaline.ca 1926 West 4th Ave.
SHOP RAY RICKBURN FINE MENS APPAREL Red Wing Classic Chukka boot. If the men on your list value heritage, culture and style, Ray Rickburn might be your one stop shop. With a curated mix of local and international brands like Fjällräven, Red Wing, Barbour, Filson, Naked & Famous you’ll have enough choices for all your boys for every holiday of the year.
www.rayrickburn.com 2100 W 4th Ave.
COMOR SPORTS Lenz Lithium Pack rcB 1200 + Heat Sock 1.0 Set. When mother nature throws everything she’s got at you, slip into these socks with their own built-in heating system. Available for both men and women. Check battery levels, control heating levels, and more with the Lenz Heat App.
www.comorsports.com 1766 W 4th Ave.
FOR THE HOLIDAYS PLUM If you’re heading to the sun for the holidays you’ll want to see Plum’s new signature RESORT COLLECTION designs this season. Colourful sundresses, skirts, tees, shorts and cover-up blouses await the lucky gals going south! Designed and made right here in Vancouver. Online or a location near you.
WEST COAST SPORTS Faction Agent 90 skis + Nitro Stance snowboard. Winter’s rolling in and it’s time to gear up! You and yours can be stylish, warm and sporty by the holidays if you start now. Skis, snowboards, boots, bindings, and all the extras in store. Get ready for the weather and look good doing it with one of BC’s widest and well priced selections of outdoor gear and apparel.
www.plum.ca 2290 West 4th Ave.
RYU APPAREL INC. RYU - Quick Pack LUX. Looking for the perfect backpack? This may just be it. RYU’s reinvented the commuter bag with this stealth urban assault pack. Clean lines, genuine leather details and a sleek designer profile makes this your go-to bag for cycling to work, heading to the gym, travel or even paired with business attire.
www.ryu.com 1745 W 4th Avenue
westcoastsports.ca 1675 West 4th Ave
MIDDLE SISTER BOUTIQUE Cuffs by Karine Sultan, a bold French artist who’s been moving Parisian jewelry trends for over 20 years. Put some sparkle in your holidays and check out this unique line at Middle Sister, a locally owned boutique with global sensibility and design-conscious aesthetic. Clothing and accessories representing an eclectic network of artists and brands criss-crossing the planet.
GRAVITYPOPE To celebrate turning 25 this year, gravitypope partnered with Vancouver’s own Wings + Horns to produce the perfect hi-top sneaker. Made in Italy with premium calfskin leathers, the classic black and white details and contemporary design will always be in style.
gravitypope.com 2205 West 4th
www.middlesister.ca 2137 West 4th. Ave.
36 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 37
STRAIGHT WRAPPED FOR THE HOLIDAYS ICE BREAKER Merinoloft Stratus. For frosty morning dog walks or rainy lunch breaks on the ridgeline; this lightweight jacket will keep you warm and dry. With woven merino next to skin, recycled wool insulation, and many fun colours to choose from, it’s the gift you’ll want to give yourself!
THE RIGHT SHOE With 230 years of shoe making experience, it’s safe to say that Birkenstock has footwear figured. Striking the perfect mix of comfort and style, they make the perfect gift for him or for her. There’s lots to choose from at The Right Shoe with Birkenstock’s collection of sandals, clogs, shoes and boots. Online or In-Store,
www.icebreaker.com 2089 West 4th Ave.
www.therightshoe.ca 1601 W 4th Ave.
THE NORTH FACE Women’s Arctic Down Parka. Quilted taffeta against the skin sounds like the perfect way to take the chill out the air this season. Stay snug and dry with this down filled, breathable and stylish barrier against winter snowstorms. A removable insulated hood with faux-fur trim adds a cozy touch. 3 Greater Vancouver Locations.
www.thenorthfacevancouver.ca 2136 West 4th Ave.
ADRENALINE Darth Vader Backpack. May the force be with you this holiday season when gifting this backpack to the super fan in your life. With a variety of merchandise from wallets to jewelry you’re sure to get all your Star Wars gear before the Force Awakens.
ADRENALINE Happy Birthday Jesus Sweater: Whether you’re making water into wine or kissing under the mistletoe, this sweater is going to make people smile. Many different styles available in store to make sure you have the best ‘Ugly’ Christmas sweater at the party.
www.shopadrenaline.ca 1926 West 4th Ave.
www.shopadrenaline.ca 1926 West 4th Ave.
SHOP RAY RICKBURN FINE MENS APPAREL Red Wing Classic Chukka boot. If the men on your list value heritage, culture and style, Ray Rickburn might be your one stop shop. With a curated mix of local and international brands like Fjällräven, Red Wing, Barbour, Filson, Naked & Famous you’ll have enough choices for all your boys for every holiday of the year.
www.rayrickburn.com 2100 W 4th Ave.
COMOR SPORTS Lenz Lithium Pack rcB 1200 + Heat Sock 1.0 Set. When mother nature throws everything she’s got at you, slip into these socks with their own built-in heating system. Available for both men and women. Check battery levels, control heating levels, and more with the Lenz Heat App.
www.comorsports.com 1766 W 4th Ave.
FOR THE HOLIDAYS PLUM If you’re heading to the sun for the holidays you’ll want to see Plum’s new signature RESORT COLLECTION designs this season. Colourful sundresses, skirts, tees, shorts and cover-up blouses await the lucky gals going south! Designed and made right here in Vancouver. Online or a location near you.
WEST COAST SPORTS Faction Agent 90 skis + Nitro Stance snowboard. Winter’s rolling in and it’s time to gear up! You and yours can be stylish, warm and sporty by the holidays if you start now. Skis, snowboards, boots, bindings, and all the extras in store. Get ready for the weather and look good doing it with one of BC’s widest and well priced selections of outdoor gear and apparel.
www.plum.ca 2290 West 4th Ave.
RYU APPAREL INC. RYU - Quick Pack LUX. Looking for the perfect backpack? This may just be it. RYU’s reinvented the commuter bag with this stealth urban assault pack. Clean lines, genuine leather details and a sleek designer profile makes this your go-to bag for cycling to work, heading to the gym, travel or even paired with business attire.
www.ryu.com 1745 W 4th Avenue
westcoastsports.ca 1675 West 4th Ave
MIDDLE SISTER BOUTIQUE Cuffs by Karine Sultan, a bold French artist who’s been moving Parisian jewelry trends for over 20 years. Put some sparkle in your holidays and check out this unique line at Middle Sister, a locally owned boutique with global sensibility and design-conscious aesthetic. Clothing and accessories representing an eclectic network of artists and brands criss-crossing the planet.
GRAVITYPOPE To celebrate turning 25 this year, gravitypope partnered with Vancouver’s own Wings + Horns to produce the perfect hi-top sneaker. Made in Italy with premium calfskin leathers, the classic black and white details and contemporary design will always be in style.
gravitypope.com 2205 West 4th
www.middlesister.ca 2137 West 4th. Ave.
36 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 37
AFGHAN HORSEMEN RESTAURANT SINCE 1974
AWARD WINNING AFGHAN CUISINE
12T H A N N U A L
18 17
2014
2015
2INDIAN
TOP MOVIES ISSUE
1833 Anderson St. (2nd Floor) Vancouver
BEFORE THE ENTRANCE TO GRANVILLE ISLAND, RIGHT BEHIND THE STARBUCKS
f
LOOK FOR OUR
DECEMBER 24 ➤TO ADVERTISE CALL 604-730-7000
(604)873-5923 Open 7 Days A Week www.afghanhorsemen.com
STRAIGHT WRAPPED FOR THE HOLIDAYS
FOR THE LIBATION ENTHUSIAST
dineout RESTAURANTS < FROM A TO Z <
f r b l n p t $ $$ $$$ $$$$
Legend Reviewed & Recommended Breakfast Lunch Late Night Patio Takeout Cheap Inexpensive Moderate Expensive
2AMERICAN REGIONAL ★ MEMPHIS BLUES BARBEQUE HOUSE Hearty southern comfort food includes melt-in-your-mouth ribs and smoked chicken. 1465 W. Broadway, 604-738-6806. lt$$
★ DUNN’S FAMOUS Hand-cut Montrealstyle smoked-meat sandwiches, poutine, and all-day breakfasts. 827 Seymour, 604-682-8938. blt$$
2ITALIAN ★ CINCIN Mediterranean and classic Italian dishes from a wood-burning oven. 1154 Robson, 604-688-7338. p$$$
★ KIBUNE SUSHI Traditional sushi restaurant with bar seating, snug booths, and a small patio. 1508 Yew, 604-731-4482. pt$$ ★ TOJO’S Sushi, seafood, and much more from the city’s best-known Japanese restaurant. 1133 W. Broadway, 604-872-8050. pt$$$$
2MIDDLE EASTERN AFGHAN HORSEMEN Lamb, beef, and chicken shish kebabs, plus vegetarian dishes. 202–1833 Anderson, Granville Island, 604-873-5923. lt$$$
2PACIFIC NORTHWEST ★ BISHOP’S Elegant, understated West Coast menu with European influences. 2183 W. 4th, 604-738-2025. l$$$$
WATER ST. CAFÉ Creative seafood dishes, pasta, fresh-baked breads, and desserts. 300 Water, 604-689-2832. lp$$$
2RESTAURANT/BAR THE BIMINI PUBLIC HOUSE Gastropub fare with 24 beers on tap. 2010 W. 4th, 604-733-7116. l$$
on the web!
For up-to-the-minute, searchable Dine Out listings, visit
www.straight.com
★ SOPHIE’S COSMIC CAFE Garage-sale décor, kid-friendly menu, popular for breakfast. 2095 W. 4th, 604-732-6810. blpt$$
CRAFT BEER MARKET Over 140 beers on tap complement burgers and flatbreads. 85 W. 1st, 604-709-2337. lp$$$
2CHINESE
DARBY’S PUB Neighbourhood pub offers pastas, sandwiches, and craft beer. 2001 Macdonald, 604-731-0617. lp$$
FATTY COW SEAFOOD HOT POT Chinese-style hot pot with fresh veggies, meat, seafood, and dumplings. 5108 Victoria, 604-568-6630. t$$$ LIN CHINESE CUISINE AND TEA HOUSE Northern Chinese food with award-winning xiaolongbao in a casual environment. 1537 W. Broadway, 604-733-9696. lt$$
2CONTINENTAL ★ BAUHAUS RESTAURANT Uwe Boll’s fine-dining restaurant with a Michelinstarred German chef. 1 W. Cordova, 604-974-1147. l$$$$ ★ CHAMBAR RESTAURANT Busy Belgian restaurant with moules frites and a selection of imported beers. 568 Beatty, 604-879-7119. lp$$$$
www.fireflyfinewinesandales.com
★ VIJ’S Famous for artful cooking, engaging service. 1480 W. 11th, 604736-6664. $$$
2JAPANESE
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FIREFLY FINE WINES AND ALES Are you thinking about Christmas shopping yet? Come to Firefly Fine Wines and Ales, spend $500 and get a $50 gift card, spend $1000 and get a $100 gift card with new enrollment in our VIP Program!
MAURYA INDIAN CUISINE Elegant, traditional Indian fine dining; extensive wine list. 1643 W. Broadway, 604-7420622. blpt$$$
NEW OXFORD PUBLIC HOUSE Pub fare with a British touch. 1144 Homer, 604-899-3229. l$$ THE PINT PUBLIC HOUSE Sports bar serves favourites like nachos, burgers, and chicken wings. Brunch on weekends. 455 Abbott, 604-684-0258. l$$ THE SUNSET GRILL TAP HOUSE & WHISKEY BAR Dishes made with organic, sustainable ingredients; diverse whisky and craft-beer selection. 2204 York, 604-732-3733. pt$$
2SEAFOOD JOE FORTES SEAFOOD & CHOP HOUSE Bustling seafood grill with steaks and an oyster bar. 777 Thurlow, 604-669-1940. lp$$$
2EAT IN/TAKE OUT
2SOUTHEAST ASIAN
LUKES GENERAL STORE Specialty shop serves gourmet coffees, chocolate, and more. 49 W. Hastings, 604-428-0700. blt$$
KAYA MALAY BISTRO Contemporary Malaysian cuisine with French influences. 1063 W. Broadway, 604-730-9963. lpt$$
2FRENCH
RED GINGER Singaporean and Asianfusion cuisine. 967 W. Broadway, 604558-0888. lt$$
★ LE CROCODILE Alsatian regional dishes flawlessly done. 100–909 Burrard, 604-669-4298. lp$$$$
2TAPAS
L’ABATTOIR Modern, French-inspired cui- TEN TEN TAPAS Small plates with an sine in a stylish Gastown space. 217 Carrall, emphasis on seafood and pan-Asian 604-568-1701. p$$$ options. View of False Creek. 3–1010 Beach, 604-689-7800. pt$$
2GREEK
★ APOLLONIA GREEK RESTAURANT Friendly hideaway serving generous portions of Greek home cooking. 1830 Fir, 604-736-9559. lt$$$
2VEGETARIAN ★ THE NAAM RESTAURANT Funky natural-food joint. 2724 W. 4th, 604-7387151. blpt$$
YOUR FAVOURITE ONE STOP BOTTLE SHOP FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON Finally! The answer for those “hard to buy for” people on your Holiday List.
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Send directly to a mobile device. Instantly redeemable. OPEN 11-11 EVERY DAY (12-6 DEC 25) • FREE PARKING AROUND BACK • BREWERYCREEKLIQUORSTORE.COM • 604.872.3373 • 14th & MAIN • FIND US 38 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
FOOD
Buy the Glass wraps up in East Vancouver
T
his is the fourth and final chapter of Buy the Glass, a neighbourhood-focused series where each week I’ve hit up a trio of Vancouver restaurants, asking their on-staff wine pros to share a by-the-glass wine they’ve been digging lately, along with a dish to go with it. We’ve covered Gastown, Kitsilano, and downtown so far; this week we wrap things up in East Van. MERCHANT’S OYSTER BAR (1590 Commercial Drive) Doug Stephen wears many hats at the popular Commercial Drive seafood spot, as coowner, chef, and guy behind the wine program. When I caught him by phone, he was just beginning dinner service, and in the background I could hear the rattling of pots and pans along with the din of the first couple of tables being greeted and guests getting comfortable. These days, Stephen’s been enjoying British Columbia’s Bartier Bros. 2013 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay ($12 per glass, $55 per bottle). “It’s the best of both worlds; 40 percent of the wine was fermented in oak, so it makes for great approachability with a rich mouth feel, but then it’s nicely balanced with zingy green apple and the restraint of a European-style Chardonnay.” He went on to say that slight richness is an easy match for their Dungeness crab and side-stripe prawn bucatini pasta with cream, house-fermented chilies, and tarragon. “Besides Chardonnay and shellfish being a classic pairing, the fruity aspect of the wine cuts through the cream well, while the wine’s richer side balances the heat from the chilies perfectly.” MAMIE TAYLOR’S (250 East Georgia Street)
Since 2013, Chinatown’s Mamie Taylor’s has been slingin’ inspired odes to the cuisine of the American South, with chef Tobias Grignon dishing out classics like shrimp and grits and Louisiana country ham, along with culinary mashups like their signature ham grenades (ham-hock Kurtis Kolt tater tots, with aioli, piccalilli, and garlic chives). With an onslaught of big, bold flavours, co-owner Simon Kaulback told me over the phone that he likes to balance things out with a lighter
The Bottle
modelled after an Italian osteria, a casual neighbourhood place for simple and authentic bites, wine, and cheer. The reason for such immediate fanfare could be traced to its highly reputable ownership, consisting of restaurateur Paul Grunberg (L’Abattoir), designer Craig Stanghetta (Revolver, Bao Bei), and chef Mark Perrier (CinCin Ristorante + Bar, Two Rivers Specialty Meats); its front-of-house team of Vancouver allstars; or even the fact that it’s bringing the goods to an underserved neighbourhood. After my first visit a few days ago, I’d have to add that it simply hits all the right notes—the small plates and pastas, the warm and inviting room, the tight and appropriate Italian wine program, all of it. Heading up that wine program, and one of said front-of-house allstars, is Amorita Adair (Legacy Liquor Store, Bufala). I love that when reached by phone, she totally geeked out with her recommendation of Fattoria Colmone della Marca Il Ciarliero Vernaccia Nera ($10 per glass, $50 per bottle) from Marche. It’s a sparkling red (the Vernaccia Nera part is the grape variety, a regional Grenache) that Adair describes as “more like a robust, fuller-bodied Lambrusco with Black Forest cake and earthy character and medium-dry with a persistent finish”. For those curious but exhibiting mild trepidation, she’s always happy to provide guests with a small splash first, “because when people like it, they love it! Nothing makes me happier than a table starting with a few glasses of it alongside our salumi board, enjoying how it suits the bresaola, fennel sausage, soppressata, and everything else on there so well.” I missed this awesome-sounding combo on Mamie Taylor’s recommends lighter red wine to pair with zesty shrimp and Louisiana country ham. my visit; after our brief chat, I’m already planred, like Road 13 Vineyards 2013 Pinot Noir eating dinner.” His pairing suggestion is ning my return! ($10 per glass, $50 per bottle). Grignon’s fried chicken with sweet-potato“You know, I just think it’s a great ex- and-cheddar waff le, watermelon salad, jalaOh, and I wanted to mention that last ample of B.C. Pinot Noir,” he said. “I peños, and gravy. When asked why he likes week’s recommendation of G. D. Vajra Albe sometimes find New World Pinots Road 13’s Pinot with that dish, he laughed. 2010 Barolo by CinCin Ristorante + Bar’s can be simple strawberry fields “Because it’s just really damn good with the Shane Taylor is offered at $31.25 per glass and bubble gum, but Road 13’s is fried chicken!” and $125 per bottle. The $93.75 price I noted so well-structured, with a touch of Sold. is their carafe price, so there are actually herbs and just a hint of that Old World barnthree ways guests can enjoy what he referred yard character I’m a fan of. It’s the kind of SAVIO VOLPE (615 Kingsway) Arguably to as a wine that “ticks all of the boxes for wine I like to drink while I’m making din- Vancouver’s hottest restaurant of the moment quality Barolo”, from a vintage that is “one ner, and then drink more of it while I’m (and barely three weeks old), Savio Volpe is of the best in many years”. -
STRAIGHT WRAPPED FOR THE HOLIDAYS
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DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 39
NOW PLAYING!
40 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
ARTS
Above. UBC Opera Ensemble, seen here performing Manon (Tim Matheson photo), will join Beijing Central Conservatory opera singers (below left) on-stage in a special concert that’s part of the “trade deal”.
An operatic exchange
dramatic arts. the ski hill: you’ve got a split second to make that “I think we’re stress- high F in the Queen of the Night’s aria, right? ing the acting side as And if you haven’t got all the factors in place, it well as the singing—al- won’t come out. That’s the second you’re going though you cannot sing down the ski hill and you take a wrong turn, and an opera if you can’t sing bang! You’re done for, right? So there’s a bit of that the role! There’s no way sports excitement in opera, and this could also be you can swindle that,” something that appeals to the Chinese, who are she says. “The singing, people of great admiration for precision and highthat’s the most impor- quality performance and excellence.” tant thing. But the actAnd then there’s the undeniable fact that UBC School of Music is shipping Nancy Hermiston to China and 35 ing is right up there as China is the world’s most populous nation. students are headed to UBC from Beijing in a new cultural trade well, and for the last 30, Demographics alone suggest that many of It appears to be a fair exchange: UBC is 40 years you can’t not be a good actor and be opera’s future stars will be of Chinese orishipping the globally esteemed Nancy Hermis- on-stage. So I think we have that to offer gin, a phenomenon already visible in the worlds of orchestral and chamber BY AL EX ANDER VAR T Y ton to China, and getting 35 students from the them—and, again, they’re changing Check out… Beijing Central Conservatory’s opera program in very, very rapidly. There are more and music. So the exchange program that STRAIGHT.COM will put the Beijing Central Conreturn. But, of course, as is usual in the world of more wonderful actors that are coming Visit our website international trade, nothing is quite as out of China. But when I first started to servatory’s best on-stage with their for morning-after simple as it seems. go there, that was why they were bringUBC Opera Ensemble peers is also a reviews and local “I’ve been going to China since about ing a lot of North Americans over. They chance for local listeners to preview arts news 2003, 2004,” Hermiston explains, in a wanted that acting aspect.” artists they could well be queuing up telephone interview from her office in As for why the Beijing exchange is imfor in five years’ time. UBC’s Old Auditorium. “I first went over portant on this side of the pond, Hermiston “The Beijing conservatory is like the Juilliard to do some master classes at the Beijing delivers what she jokingly describes as “a long- of China, so all the top students go there,” Herconservatory, and then I went to Cheng- winded answer to a simple question”, beginning miston says. “I remember the first time I went du, and then I took about 42 students with the notion that China is opera’s next frontier. there, I was hoping to bring one or two of the stuover to Beijing, and then to Chengdu af“In China, one of the fastest-growing art forms dents over for a semester, to experience what it’s ter that. We did concerts there and had is opera, and they’re building a lot of opera houses like here in Canada, performing opera. And then a really nice collaboration with the Chi- over there now,” she says. “In fact, one time when I had all these beautiful voices singing for me, nese students. I was also doing some sta- we were in Beijing with the big group, we went and I thought, ‘Oh my God, how do you choose? ging work for their production of Tosca; to an opera and the majority of the audience was Which one do you take?’ ” there was another director that did the younger people. It was the same with the symBy expanding her operatic exchange program, end staging, but I worked with them on phony orchestra, so I think a lot of people have Hermiston has avoided having to make that choice. the parts, sort of dramatically.” gotten interested in western classical music, and Local listeners are free to pick favourites of their It’s clear why the two Chinese con- particularly opera. own, however, and follow them for years to come. servatories would want Hermiston: “I kind of think what attracts a lot of people is the chair of the UBC School of Music’s voice and this tremendous force of music and emotion, this The UBC Opera Ensemble presents a sold-out opera divisions is also a highly respected director, very human experience,” she continues. “There’s performance of Beijing Conservatory Operwith a particular interest in raising singers’ acting also a certain kind of athleticism to the art form atic Excerpts at the Chan Centre for the Performing ability to match their vocal prowess. Up until now, of opera. It’s sort of putting it all out there on the Arts on Wednesday (December 2). The UBC and she notes, Chinese opera pedagogy has focused on line, and I always tell my students that we’re really Beijing ensembles will also appear at UBC’s Old vocal technique, and less on other aspects of the a high-performance sport. It’s like coming down Auditorium at noon on Thursday (December 3).
THINGS TO DO
ARTS High five
Editor’s choice A ROYAL DRAG It’s a little bit British-panto fairy-tale parody and a little bit seat-of-their-pants improv: Vancouver TheatreSports League continues its Christmas Queen saga with a new rendition this season—and its blue-haired, cross-dressing title character always provides a hilarious way to get into the holiday mood. Christmas Queen 2: You Better Watch Out is set at the North Pole and finds the larger-than-life queen creating so much chaos in Santa’s workshop that she might ruin the big day. Unsappy, spontaneous fun. Vancouver TheatreSports League presents Christmas Queen 2: You Better Watch Out at the Improv Centre until December 20.
1
SEUNG WOO BACK: WALKING ON THE LINE (At Centre A to February 20) The South Korean’s photo assemblages capture eerie urbanization.
2
YULE DUEL (At Gastown’s Maple Tree Square and elsewhere on December 3) Twenty-one choirs bring Gastown sidewalks to life with carols.
3
FLEE (At the Fox Cabaret to December 6) Studio 58, Franz Kafka, Peggy Lee, and Electric Company Theatre make for a combustible creative combo.
4
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER (At the BMO Theatre Centre to December 27) A new Peter Pan prequel and a chance to see the city’s new stage.
5
GODFREY (At Yuk Yuk’s on December 4 and 5) Fully inappropriate, uncensored humour filtered through the star comedian’s hyperenergized sensibilities.
Guest pick
BEYOND BEDTIME STORIES Our guest pick this week is by lighting designer Itai Erdal, who’s just designed the lights for Flee for Electric Company Theatre and Studio 58. Here’s his choice this week: “I am thrilled to go to the opening of Hansel and Gretel: An East Van Panto by Theatre Replacement and the Cultch. I’ve lived on the Drive for the past 12 years and the panto has become an East Van tradition. It is written by East Van celebrities Veda Hille (music) and Charles Demers (book), and features super-talented East Van actors Dawn Petten, Allan Zinyk, and Maiko Yamamoto.” Hansel and Gretel: An East Van Panto runs at the York Theatre until January 3.
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 41
ARTS
presents
you better
watch out
NOVEMBER 26 – DECEMBER 20 THE IMPROV CENTRE, GRANVILLE ISLAND
vtsl.com Julian Lokash (with Deborah Williams, left, and Patti Allan) is spending his second winter as the titular character in James and the Giant Peach. Tim Matheson photo.
Young star prepares for Peach’s wild world again > B Y A ND REA WARN ER
J
Lokash projects a grown-up demeanour while retaining his childlike sense of wonder. “It’s very fun to be in such an abstract kind of show because you never find talking bugs on a giant peach,” he says with a laugh. When he’s older, he’d love to play one of the bugs, but right now he really loves playing James. “It’s such a great role and I like how adventurous he is—he’ll take a lot of risks,” Lokash says. “I don’t really break the rules. I take risks onstage, but in real life, like at school, I just listen to what the teacher says, don’t talk back or anything.” But there’s something about James’s journey that appeals to him, just the way Roald Dahl’s stories have gripped generations of children before him. Danger and grotesque tragedy shape Dahl’s characters but never define them. They triumph and find places where they belong, despite their circumstances. This is hugely exciting to Lokash, and his summary, particularly of why he thinks this is a great Christmas show, is perfect. “The parents get eaten by a rhino and then his [James’s] life is miserable. He lives in an orphanage and then he gets sent to live with these aunts and he’s like, ‘Yay! I have family!’ But then he gets to them and they are these nasty, cruel, horrible people and it just gets even worse. He’s like, ‘How can my life get any worse?’ And then he goes inside the peach and he’s like, ‘I have to do something,’ and then he meets his new family. It’s really great for the Christmas spirit, because it shows you can have a family but it can be with anybody. The theme is the importance of family. James meets these bugs and they become his family. They don’t like each other at first, any of them, but at the end they all become family.” -
ulian Lokash’s school holidays are more jazz hands and spirit fingers than video games and friend hangs. For the past two years, the 12-year-old’s major breaks have been spent onstage and in the spotlight: two summers at Theatre Under the Stars and now his second winter as the titular star of Carousel Theatre’s James and the Giant Peach. “I was so happy to see everybody again because I missed everybody the whole year,” Lokash says, taking a short break from rehearsal inside the Waterfront Theatre. Lokash admits that he was a bit worried about re-learning his lines and the music, and was anxiously trying to get it all down beforehand. “But then I came to the rehearsal hall and I knew it all! It just came so naturally. Some part of my brain knows all the lines and all the harmonies and everything. I barely had to look at my script and music.” If the preteen makes it look easy, perhaps that’s because he’s living his earliest dream. “Ever since I was born, I’ve always wanted to sing and dance and act,” Lokash says earnestly. “I’ve always loved it. When I was in preschool, the kiddie songs, ‘Wheels on the bus go round and round.’ I made up dance routines, too, to those kinds of songs.” Lokash’s face lights up when he talks about musical theatre. He doesn’t mind the gruelling schedule—six days a week, eight hours a day, since November 17. On Mondays, Lokash goes to school and picks up his assignments and homework for the week, which he does during his rehearsal breaks and in the evenings. “I’m really trying to stay on top of it,” he says. This balancing act is what Lokash has been working toward. Saturdays are spent at Stagecoach Theatre Arts, classes at Carousel itself, and Carousel Theatre’s James and the the Arts Umbrella. Perhaps it’s the Giant Peach runs from Saturday training, or it’s just who he is, but (December 5) to January 3.
PUBLIC PLAZA
ARTWORK
Request for Expressions of Interest & Qualifications 725 Marine Drive, City of North Vancouver BC.
Anthem Properties Ltd. in partnership with the City of North Vancouver Public Art Program is seeking an artist or team of artists to create a permanent artwork associated with a new development. For more info go to N.Vancouver Public Art program call for Artists:
http://www.artsoffice.ca/public_art/call_to_artists.php
42 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 43
A Comedy of Love and Manners
by R Brinsley Sheridann Richard Directed by
JOHNNA WRIGHT
Dec 28 to Jan 23 at the Cultch 2015
2016
THE WIZARD OF OZ By L. Frank Baum • With Music & Lyrics by Harold Arlen & E.Y. Harburg Background Music by Herbert Stothart • Dance and Vocal Arrangements by Peter Howard Orchestration by Larry Wilcox • Adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company BASED UPON THE CLASSIC MOTION PICTURE OWNED BY TURNER ENTERTAINMENT CO. & DISTRIBUTED IN ALL MEDIA BY WARNER BROS.
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ARTS
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A musical ensemble and puppet troupe will break unpredictable ground when they crawl out of the Big Box of Life for Trunk Puppet NOW. Peter Moller photo.
Puppetry and music think outside the box > BY A LEX A NDER VA R TY
B
lame the CBC. The longrunning childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show Mr. Dressup conditioned Canadian viewers to regard large items of luggage as a limitless source of wonder, but while actor Ernie Coombsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tickle Trunk was primarily a container of costumes, the Big Box of Life that Peter Balkwill is about to ship to Vancouver is a darker entity, and a more mysterious one, too. Neither he nor his keyboardplaying collaborator Lisa Cay Miller can quite say whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to happen when his Trunk Puppet troupe and her NOW ensemble get together to present a groundbreaking fusion of improvised music and puppetryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; but both are obviously tickled by the options available to them. For Balkwill, coâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;artistic director of Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Old Trout Puppet Workshop, performing with improvising musicians fits perfectly with the light-on-its-feet aesthetic heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been developing with his Trunk Puppet spinoff. The idea is to condense a whole showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth of puppets and props into the aforementioned Big Box, which apparently serves as set, stage, and storage unit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I guess you could call it an experiment,â&#x20AC;? Balkwill says, on the line from the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Calgary headquarters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Part of the mandate was to create a set that had limitless possibilities, but that was also infinitely easier to move around. So where most of our shows travel in a five-ton truck, this travels in a cube truck. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And then Lisa had seen a couple of our bigger shows, and was wondering if there was a possibility of colliding what the NOW Society does with what the Old Trout Puppet Workshop does,â&#x20AC;? he continues. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And I said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Well, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got this crazy trunk thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to move around, so we can get it out to Vancouver easily
enough.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; And then, as we chatted, we discovered that it was possible that we could apply her template of improvisation to the template of the trunk. So weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bringing out some pieces that are loosely structured, but we wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t determine where theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to go until they go somewhere.â&#x20AC;? In a separate telephone interview, Miller says that this open-ended spirit is likely to migrate off the stage and into other areas of the theatre. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The way that Peter is able to communicate complex human experiences through short vignettes of puppetry is just incredible,â&#x20AC;? she notes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be a lot of that, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also be a lot of interaction, a lot of humour, and a lot of fluidity. The puppeteers might go up and change the lighting, or they might serve a drink before the show starts, and us musicians might move around.â&#x20AC;? Exploration, Balkwill stresses, is key. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole nature of Trunk Puppet,â&#x20AC;? he notes, â&#x20AC;&#x153;is an exploration of puppetry and the exuberance that a puppeteer might invest in while puppeteeringâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the joy of bringing something to life.â&#x20AC;? By that, one suspects, Balkwill means more than just giving an elaborately carved mannequin or even a simple umbrella its own personality. Trunk Puppetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Calgary debut apparently added fresh energy to an already-vital puppeteering scene. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was getting reports that people were going home and doing puppet shows in their basements,â&#x20AC;? he says, laughing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the mandate here. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to go home and wish that you could do it; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to go home and realize that we all have that artist inside ourselves.â&#x20AC;? Trunk Puppet NOW plays Renegade Theatre on Friday and Saturday (December 4 and 5), with Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family-friendly matinee sold-out. For more information, visit www.nowsociety.org/.
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CHARLIE HUNTER TRIO â&#x20AC;˘ DEC. 12 @ 8 PM Grammy nominated guitarist/composer Charlie Hunter with long-time collaborators trombone master, Curtis Fowlkes and drum maestro Bobby Previte
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DECEMBER 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 45
ARTS
Bracing Flee jumps with ideas and style TH E AT RE FLEE By David Hudgins, Jonathon Young, and Peter Anderson. Directed by Jonathon Young. Presented by Electric Company Theatre and Studio 58. At the Fox Cabaret on Saturday, November 28. Continues until December 6
Like a stylish young intellec-
2 tual, Flee is witty, likable—and
more than a bit self-conscious. The story, which was written by David Hudgins, Jonathon Young, and Peter Anderson, unfolds in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. A destitute watchmaker named Archibald Twill and his love, Caprice, meet a flea that bites both of them—and they enjoy it. Because Archibald and Caprice owe three months’ rent, their landlady, Madame Renard, threatens to evict them, but when she peeks through their keyhole and sees the original flea and her offspring feeding on Caprice, Renard recognizes a kinky business opportunity. Soon, throngs are lining up to gaze through the keyhole—and through Archibald’s series of magnifying lenses—at the salacious scene inside. What’s it all about? That nagging question has a handful of reasonable answers. On one level, Flee, which is copresented by Studio 58, a theatre training program, is about the odd process of becoming an actor. Caprice doesn’t want to present a standard flea circus; she wants to liberate the fleas, to train them to be themselves. In the theatre, authenticity is a kind of performance, so the paradox is apt. And Flee plays with the notion of being bitten by the artistic bug: Archibald and Caprice follow the course triggered by their insect muse, but, as they negotiate the strained relationship between emotion and commerce, between honesty and self-exploitation, will they ever find satisfaction? It’s easy to hop
Lois Anderson and Peter Anderson star as Caprice and Archibald in the always witty Flee. David Cooper photo.
from here to ideas about addiction and existential struggle. So, thematically, Flee is loaded, and under Young’s direction, every element of its production is frickin’ fantastic. There are interactive scenes in Flee, but a lot of the time, members of the company, which includes a chorus of 11 “fleaks”, recite the story directly to the audience, and Young finds endless ways to stage this: performers fight to relay their bits of information, or a lone actor crawls towards a mike that’s lying on the stage f loor, terrified of delivering his installment. Choreographers David Raymond and Tiffany Tregarthen supply exhilaratingly quirky movement. Shizuka Kai’s set features enormous magnifying lenses, which are hugely satisfying as sculpture. Barbara Clayden’s costumes are stylishly Parisian. (Perhaps in a nod to philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre, the story is set in the Hotel Paris.) And Itai Erdal’s lighting is so thick and moody it’s like
you’re in a stripper bar frequented by chain-smoking existentialists. Running through all of this in a rich stream that could be titled “your blood on jazz” is the music of Peggy Lee, as played by JP Carter, Ron Samworth, Dylan van der Schyff, and the cellist herself. Not everything works, though. The script includes a good deal of cringeworthy rhyming. And, despite solid performances from the four main actors—Peter Anderson as Archibald, Kathryn Shaw as Renard, David Petersen as a flea-circus pro, and especially Lois Anderson as Caprice—the evening always hovers at an emotional remove. That’s because Archibald, the protagonist, is largely passive and because the plot illustrates the play’s themes rather than following an internal and inevitable logic of action. Still, Flee is bracingly original and insanely cool. So, if you’re itching for a good time…
SOCIAL STUDIES By Trish Cooper. Directed by Donna Spencer. A Firehall Arts Centre production. At the Firehall Arts Centre on Wednesday, November 25. Continues until December 5
Social Studies is all about
2 family—both locally and global-
ly. Like many families, it’s funny, fraught, and pulsating with love. The play is set in 2006 in Winnipeg. Jackie has just left her marriage, but when she comes home to live with her mother, Val, and 16-year-old sister, Sarah, she finds her old bedroom occupied by Deng, a Lost Boy from South Sudan who has arrived in the city as a refugee. Deng has only been in the house for a week, but he already calls Val “Mum” and when he meets Jackie, he embraces her with a joyous cry of “Sister!” Deng complicates the family’s dynamic: Val is compelled to do right by him, Sarah has a crush, and Jackie is > COLIN THOMAS both resentful and suspicious.
THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT THE ARTS CLUB! THE MUSICAL
NOW PLAYING!
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
gly “bracin and l a in ig r o ly cool” insaneThomas,
- Co li n tra ig ht o rg ia S The Ge
photos by david cooper
the cast of peter and the starcatcher
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stanley industrial alliance stage
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46 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
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Trish Cooper’s script is not conventionally plot-driven: while it’s eventful, there isn’t an overarching goal driving the action forward. That leads to some pacing problems late in the play, but they’re easy to overlook in light of Cooper’s considerable strengths at crafting fully dimensional characters and punchy comedic dialogue. Director Donna Spencer’s spot-on casting capitalizes on each character’s complexity. Val is well-intentioned but slightly flaky: she drinks muskeg tea, belongs to a drum circle, and sprinkles a healthy dose of First World guilt into her pre-dinner blessing. Susinn McFarlen does this type of character better than anyone in town, and she doesn’t disappoint here. Erin Moon takes Jackie through a big range of feelings; she’s convincingly depressed, furious, and hopeful, and she nails polite hostility in a scene in which Deng has helped himself to her breakfast. Lili Beaudoin finds nuance in all of Sarah’s adolescent contradictions—innocence and worldliness, recklessness and hesitation—as Richie Diggs slowly peels back the layers of Deng’s cheerful façade. The show looks great, too: Alison Green’s warm, spacious set and Sabrina Evertt’s costumes evoke the cozy refuge of family in a cold Winnipeg winter. Differences between the characters fuel a lot of the humour, as when Sarah describes Deng as “suuuuperblack” or when he tries to wrap his head around the family’s tolerance for “the gay people”. But their acceptance of those differences leads to even funnier lines: Jackie invites Val to watch a film with her, saying, “There’s so much injustice and poverty in this movie—you will love it.” Acceptance is ultimately what Social Studies is about. That makes it not only funny and moving, but very, very timely. > KATHLEEN OLIVER
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Laura Piasta’s Magnetic Jean Jacket coats the culturally charged clothing item with a paint that attracts metal. Photo courtesy of the artist and Access Gallery.
Forging art out of jean jackets and Hydro-Stone Laura Piasta wields a vibrant array of materials in a provocative look at the link between objects and ideas VISUAL AR TS LAURA PIASTA: SOUNDING THE ULTRAVIOLET At Access Gallery until January 30, 2016
Laura Piasta’s small show at
2 Access Gallery spotlights her
eclectic range of media and working methods—from gilding wooden sculpture to weaving cotton yarn to casting found objects in beeswax or Hydro-Stone. In a provocative rejoinder to poststudio practice, and a kind of push-back to concept-driven and theory-referenced art, this emerging Vancouver artist explores the “intelligence” inherent in her materials. She investigates traditional art-making techniques and, at the same time, interrogates the relationship between objects and ideas. Piasta also vexes the distinction between high art and craft, as seen in her recent experiments with marbled paper, displayed under glass at the front of the gallery and featured in a limited-edition bookwork at the back. What is interesting here is not merely her pursuit of a centuries-old decorative technique, which we know largely through its appearance on the inside covers of antique books. The charm of Piasta’s paper marbling, as Access director-curator Kimberly Phillips writes, is that the artist has flipped its traditional role, unsettling fixed notions of its value and its significance. The marbled paper no longer resides at the “periphery” of the book but constitutes the book’s entire contents. There is also charm in Piasta’s homages to earlier Vancouver artists such as Liz Magor and Gathie Falk. Stone Fruit is a small pyramid of bananas, each one cast in Hydro-Stone and spray-coated with faux-stone paint. (The paint is identified by Phillips as “the kind used in home-crafting projects”.) The allusion to Falk’s ceramic fruit piles of the 1970s is obvious, but where Falk’s oranges, apples, and grapefruit are all brilliant colour, lush form, and glossy
finish—an affirmation of life and a testament to its everyday beauty— Piasta’s bananas, with their dreary, speckled, grey surface, their uniformity, and their strangely inert configuration, look deathly, like a small tomb or a cairn. (Still, we can’t help thinking there’s a visual and verbal play here on the expression “stone fruit”, which occurs so often in the parlance of wine writers and connoisseurs.) Piasta’s Magnetic Jean Jacket is reminiscent of Magor’s siliconerubber sculptures of the late 1990s, which the older artist cast from everyday objects such as backpacks and purses, and also of her use of found articles of clothing hung casually on the wall. As the title of Piasta’s work suggests, the younger artist has covered a culturally charged item of clothing with magnetic paint, shifting its charge into the realm of natural phenomena and the invisible forces that play across our physical existence. Amusingly, a few small metal objects, such as finishing nails and a safety pin, adhere to one of the jacket’s cuffs. Acoustic Panel With Fringe makes general rather than specific allusions, including to the monochrome paintings and minimalism of the 1960s and ’70s, along with the handwoven articles (and fringeadorned clothing) associated with the counterculture of the same period. There’s also the reference to sound, but its evocation here is strangely silent. As Phillips writes, the work “quite literally weaves together a consideration of sound, painting, and textiles”. Again, Piasta’s art prompts us to be aware of unseen forces and phenomena. What is evident in this show is an abundance of astuteness, awareness, and technical facility, along with what Phillips identifies as an embrace of “vibrant materialism”. We’re still waiting, however, for Piasta to find her own voice amid a myriad of problems and possibilities. > ROBIN LAURENCE
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 47
ARTS
Dark Sisters story sears in its second act MUSIC DARK SISTERS Music by Nico Muhly. Libretto by Stephen Karam. A Vancouver Opera production. At the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre on Thursday, November 26. Remaining performances on December 3, 6, 10, and 12
“Keep sweet” is the mantra of the sister-wives in the Prophet’s mountain compound, but “Stay patient” is my advice for those planning to attend this brave but puzzling Vancouver Opera production. Act 1 is musically foggy, theatrically dubious, and only fitfully engaging, but Act 2 features singing and staging that will sear your brain. It’s probably best to consider the first half of Dark Sisters as a crash course in composer Nico Muhly’s
2 polygamist
musical language—or languages, as he doesn’t stay true to any one dialect for long. There are sections of near-liturgical choral writing for the five women at the story’s core; burly chords lifted explicitly and unapologetically from Aaron Copland’s midcentury American modernism; and one or two passages of unalloyed minimalism. Remarkably, this does not come across as pastiche, but the workings of an astute, if eclectic, musical mind. In that, Muhly is helped by several moments of true delight and wonder, including one in which the tintinnabulations of a celeste underscore a starlit nighttime scene, and another in which a string quartet morphs into a harmonium to accompany a simple hymn. Still, it was hard to connect with the story, especially when the Mormon-fundamentalist women, whose
Melanie Kruger handles a taxing score with aplomb. Tim Matheson photo.
children have just been seized in a government raid, descend into petty sexual bickering over who will share the Prophet’s bed. Yes, their need for comfort is understandable, but isn’t worry generally the antithesis of desire? This passage read, on opening
night at least, as a failed or even ugly stab at comic relief. After intermission, things pick up. The women are grilled by TV newsman Larry King, in a scene that lets Muhly depart from his episodic approach to explore a rippling, rhythmically potent theme at length. Sister Ruth delivers a gorgeously melodic aria that fully explains why, just a moment later, she flings herself off a fatal cliff. Sister Eliza, the rebel of the group, makes a spellbinding plea for freedom—and then leaves, heartbroken over having to part from her teenage daughter, who is pledged to a much older man. No one is promised a happy future, but change, we’re told, is possible. That’s not a bad message to walk out with. Singers Eve-Lyn de la Haye (Zina), Heather Pawsey (Presendia), Karen Ydenberg (Almera), Megan Latham (Ruth), and Melanie Kruger (Eliza)
handle Muhly’s taxing score with aplomb. They also do as much as they can to differentiate themselves, given that they’re dressed in muted and nearly identical pioneer dresses. A small chamber orchestra, under conductor Kinza Tyrrell, is impeccable. Casting bass-baritone Thomas Goerz as both King and the Prophet is more problematic: he’s unctuously perfect as the TV host, but lacks heat and authority in his primary role. He’s got FIVE WIVES, for Christ’s sake! The voice of God speaks through his mouth. But he has all the charisma and threat of a middle manager at ICBC. Dark Sisters is worth attending— for the music, and for its theatrically compelling second half. But don’t expect more than a minor work from a young composer who is otherwise emerging as a major talent.
> ALEXANDER VARTY
ENCORE PRESENTATION
Written and Directed by PETER ROTHSTEIN Musical arrangements by ERICK LICHTE and TIMOTHY C. TAKACH
For one night, ‘No Man’s Land’ was every man’s land.
In Book of Love, the performers got emotionally naked when they doffed their haunting masks and stripped to traditional loin cloths. Chris Randle photo.
Kokoro Dance offers up fresh, strange gift DANCE
December 5
| 3 PM & 8 PM
QUEEN ELIZABETH THEATRE ADULT TICKETS FROM $35 | STUDENTS $20 TicketsTonight.ca | 1.877.840.0457 | All Seats Reserved
BOOK OF LOVE A Kokoro Dance production. At the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre on Saturday, November 28. Continues until December 5
I had worried, on my way to Ko-
2 koro Dance’s Book of Love, that ALL THE JOY AND BEAUTY OF THE FESTIVE SEASON
December 18 ST. ANDREW’S-WESLEY UNITED CHURCH | 4:30PM & 8PM 1022 Nelson St at Burrard, Vancouver
December 19 WEST VANCOUVER UNITED CHURCH | 2PM 2062 Esquimalt Ave, West Vancouver ADULT TICKETS FROM $30 | STUDENTS $10 TicketsTonight.ca | 1.877.840.0457 | All Seats Reserved
CHOR LEONI Erick Lichte
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
48 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
designer Jonathan Baldock’s buzzworthy wicker masks might upstage dancers Barbara Bourget, Jay Hirabayashi, Billy Marchenski, and Molly McDermott—but I’ve rarely been so glad to be wrong. There’s no doubt that those masks—which are destined to haunt my dreams, I fear—are extraordinarily striking. So, too, is the introductory scene in which they are most prominently featured. The night began with two processions: first the six musicians of Standing Wave, in red robes and caps, made their way to their station, followed by the dancers, in their own multicoloured garments, with freakishly long sleeves and those absurd helmets. To the clang of struck temple bells, the latter then executed a surrealist galliard—part ritual, part courtly dance, part sly pantomime— with Jeffrey Ryan’s music setting an appropriately measured pace. This sensation of being out of time, or perhaps in some parallel universe, was abetted by the costuming, which made trying to figure out who was who a fascinating guessing game. (Marchenski was the first I identified, and it’s interesting to note that his devilishly comic sensibility came through even without the visual clues of his expressive eyebrows and leering smirk.) Book of Love’s most entrancing moments came later, however, and were more nakedly emotional; more physically naked, too, with all four performers discarding masks and robes in favour of Kokoro’s traditional loincloths and white butoh clay. More specifically, Book of Love climaxed in an extended pas de deux
for Kokoro founders Hirabayashi and Bourget, who are celebrating three decades of collaboration this year, and who have been partners for even longer than that. Under a pitiless light that spotlit every imperfection—the domed wen on Hirabayashi’s back, the zigzag of veins on Bourget’s right temple; his dented brow, her corrugated skin— the two sexagenarians enacted their love as a bent, twisted, and ultimately heroic waltz. It was beautiful and inspiring and almost shockingly sexual—and absurd, too. “It’s Kokoro, after all,” as Bourget noted in these pages last week. Meanwhile, as the two senior dancers repledged their troth, McDermott and Marchenski prowled the stage like hot monkeys, offering a more youthful, clownish, and alarming take on the erotic. This culminated in a crazily intense penetration of open mouth by rigid tongue that illuminated, perhaps, how physical attraction can lead to the deeper spiritual union Bourget and Hirabayashi were simultaneously enacting. The performers weren’t the only ones sweating by show’s end. Subtly impeccable lighting by Gerald King added to everything, and special mention must be made of Ryan’s score. The process behind Book of Love was unusual: creators Bourget and Hirabayashi set their movement to a mix of rock and pop tunes, which were then erased so that the former Vancouver Symphony Orchestra composer in residence could add his own new-music touch. Perhaps this is why Book of Love offers the most rhythmically compelling music I’ve heard from Ryan, played by performers who were fully in sync with his ambition. Fresh, strange, and wildly engaging, Book of Love is a generous 30th-anniversary gift to the city that spawned Kokoro Dance, and the viewers who have kept it going all these years. > ALEXANDER VARTY
ARTS
Council says yes to the Torqued Chandelier Artist Rodney Graham has designed a five-metre 18th-century light that will hang from below the Granville Bridge over Beach Avenue interest to the public realm in the vicinity of the Vancouver House development,” a city staff report states. posed in Vancouver. On December 1, Council also approved another Vancouver city council voted in favour of the Torqued Chandelier, designed by elaborate public-art project: Martin celebrated local artist Rodney Graham. Boyce’s Hanging Lanterns. These If approved, the five-metre 18thlights will be suspended from cables century-style lighting will be suspended connected to adjacent buildings. This beneath the Granville Bridge. It will will illumate the lane east of Seymour hang above Beach Avenue adjacent to Street next to Westbank’s Telus Vancouver House, which is Westbank Garden building. Projects’ twisting 52-storey tower Both public-art projects were designed by starchitect Bjarke Ingels. required by the city as a condition for According to Westbank, the chanapproving the two Westbank builddelier will turn and rise slowly until ings. The company will continue to once a day, when it is released and own and maintain the lighting even descends to its original position. though it will remain on city property. “The purpose of the chandelier is “Since these installations are to provide light, animation and visual providing an enhancement to the pubone of the more audacious 2 It’s public-art projects ever pro-
lic realm and enrichment of the public environment and experience for the public, staff are recommending that they will not be subject to an annual charge,” the staff report states.
National Arts Centre’s Fourth Stage in Ottawa. He was praised, in particular, for helping to bring West Coast artists and companies to international prominence. Armour champions local, national, > CHARLIE SMITH and international artists and their works through platforms such as the PuSh ARMOUR HONOURED PuSh Assembly, a big networking initiative, International Performing Arts Festival and the festival is known for its colartistic and executive director Norman laborations between companies and for Armour has won a major award for promoting cultural exchange. fostering arts touring in Canada and “For the past 30-odd years of my proabroad. The 2015 National Arts Centre fessional career, I’d like to think that this Award for Distinguished Contribution has been my sole, and soul-defining, to Touring in the Performing Arts was purpose and mission,” Armour said in given to the widely respected producer a news release. “From the bottom of on November 25, at the opening recepmy heart, thank you to my colleagues tion of the Canadian Arts Presenting and peers at the National Arts Centre Association’s conference at the
and CAPACOA for providing me with the inspiration and encouragement that we all so need to keep our spirits and minds going, day in and day out.” > JANET SMITH
THEATRE PRICE HIKES On
December 1, Vancouver city council approved a 2.9-percent fee increase for renters of civic theatres. These facilities are the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, the Orpheum, the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre and Annex, the Queen Elizabeth Plaza, and ancillary spaces. The new rates will be in effect from September 1, 2016, to August 31, 2017, which corresponds to the performing-arts season. > CARLITO PABLO
Celebrating our 30th Anniversary Season
Book of Love December 2 - 5
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The music was a stunningly beautiful, lyric and passionate opera. Standing Wave was perfection! The costume and lighting designs were powerfully evocative, and the total commitment, ferocious bravery of the dancers was stunning to see. All that and the story they told, and the way they pulled the curtain back on so many layers of the love onion was profound. Sean Bickerton, BC Director Canadian Music Centre
Choreography: Barbara Bourget & Jay Hirabayashi Music: Jeffrey Ryan Costumes/Set: Jonathan Baldock Lighting: Gerald King Performed by: Kokoro Dance Barbara Bourget, Jay Hirabayashi, Molly McDermott & Billy Marchenski and Standing Wave Olivia Blander, cello AK Coope, clarinet Vern Griffiths, percussion Christie Reside, flute Allen Stiles, piano Rebecca Whitling, violin
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Book of Love photo by Jay Hirabayashi
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 49
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vancouversymphony.ca/sampler VSO Customer Service 604.876.3434 @VSOrchestra 50 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
GIFT GUIDE
Ideas for the literary locavores on your list for exploring the way we routinely seal ourselves off from whatever we deem strange, including the natural world itself, much to our own detriment. The result is a heartfelt and humorous reflection on “the enormous, lush, thriving swamp that is life on this planet”.
> B Y B RIA N LYNC H
Y
our holiday food and drink menus are likely full of local ingredients—so why not your holiday reading list too? Here’s just a sample of the fine homegrown writing you can give to others or use to create your own quiet breaks during this loud season. FOR CONNOISSEURS OF WIND AND WATER There’s no other place
on Earth like Haida Gwaii, just as there’s no other writer like prolific B.C. poet-novelist-critic Susan Musgrave. And so Musgrave’s weighty new volume A Taste of Haida Gwaii: Food Gathering and Feasting at the Edge of the World (Whitecap)—the first cookbook on her long list of published works—is a one-of-a-kind, ocean-formed marvel from cover to cover. Musgrave has gathered the 90 recipes here during her four decades as a resident of the “Shining Islands” (the moniker she favours for the place), most recently as proprietor of the Copper Beech Guest House in Masset. So you can try your hand at such delicacies as Razor Clam Linguine, Beer Battered Zucchini Blossoms, Cranberry Relish Chutney, or Wild Rose Petal Ice Cream. And while waiting for your seaweed lasagna to bake, you can savour the essays Musgrave has scattered throughout, on everything from foraging and scallop-shucking to the “Doritos spill of 2009” that brought a wave of the red-bagged snacks to shore from a passing cargo ship.
Gift-worthy books with B.C. roots come in all forms, from a yeti-driven kids’ tale to a memoir of human-parrot friendship.
fertile moment for change in the relationship between Canada’s indigenous and nonindigenous peoples, Lee Maracle’s new collection of oratories, Memory Serves (NeWest), takes on even greater significance. The book brings together 20 years’ worth of piercing lectures by the Coast Salish auFOR THOSE SEEKING NEW PER- thor and poet, showing how Sto:lo hisSPECTIVE This year saw the Truth tory, law, philosophy, and spirituality and Reconciliation Commission sub- can dismantle old colonial machinery. mit its findings, and then saw Stephen Harper chased out of office. So, at this FOR THE NATURALLY DIVERSE Acclaimed Salt Spring Island writer Brian Brett blends memoir and natural history to create unique reson> BY STAFF READING B.C. ONLINE ances in his latest work, Tuco: The Parrot, the Others, and a Scattershot World (Greystone). The pain and If none of the books listed here works and you’d like about 8,493 other scorn Brett suffered while growlocally nurtured ideas, check out B.C. Books Online (bcbooks.49thshelf. ing up as an androgyne, along with com/ ), the teeming website newly launched by the Association of Book the insight and healing he gained Publishers of B.C. You might start with one of the curated reading lists (on, from his 25-year friendship with say, books from the North Coast, or aboriginal children’s and YA books) and the African grey parrot of the title then browse any of the 24 local publishers or dozens of subject categories, (whom he describes as “an anarchisincluding everything from history, politics, and business to music, photogtic outlaw biker with wings instead raphy, performing arts, and gardening. It’s an easy way to find a dead-on of wheels”), would easily be enough gift while throwing a little Yuletide support in the direction of hard-working for a compelling story. But in Tuco, people who’ve dedicated themselves to telling the province’s stories. Brett uses these experiences as paths
make strangers laugh, ranging from vaudeville, burlesque, and the mobrun nightclub circuit to the advent of late-night talk shows and laugh tracks, and right on through to our own web-entangled environment. It’s packed with tales of the weirdness and chaos that have regularly descended on the lives of these performers, and touched by a sense of the oddly short shelf life that even some of the most brilliant and popular comedy has had, as tastes change with passing
FOR THE LAUGH-LORN Comedy’s a bitch and then it dies—that’s one way of summing up a theme of Kliph Nesteroff’s blazing new book The Comedians: Drunks, Thieves, Scoundrels, and the History of American Comedy (Grove). This is a swift-footed, anecdote-loaded survey of the last 100 years of professional attempts to
generations. The B.C.–born Nesteroff is highly qualified to tell this story, not only as a well-known historian and archivist of classic comedy, but as a practitioner whose standup career got rolling right here in Vancouver under the alias Shecky Grey.
FOR YOUNG READERS Wee kids between three and seven will be charmed by the enterprising reptiles in Crocs at Work… (Tradewind), the rhyming, rowdily colourful picture book from the Vancouverite duo of author Robert Heidbreder and illustrator Rae Maté. The big animals here may be running against their nature in their concern for following safety regulations as they go about their jobs as bus drivers, cooks, and house painters. Needless to say, though, they attack their tasks with toothy grins and untidy methods. And just what is it with putting large, normally ferocious creatures behind the wheel of a bus? In the case of Are We There, Yeti? (Simon & Schuster), by locally raised artist and animator Ashlyn Anstee, the licensed party is the white-furred snow monster of myth. But in this boisterous debut for kids four to eight, Yeti is the picture of serenity as he takes a noisy group of human friends on a road trip to his mountain home. For readers 12 and up who no longer need the world’s darker sides lightened for them, there’s Are You Seeing Me? (Orca), the celebrated novel by Australian-born Vancouver author Darren Groth. This tale of 19-year-old Justine and her twin brother, Perry, who has autism spectrum disorder and a love of sea monsters and Jackie Chan movies, brings young lives to a crossroads with such power that it was shortlisted for this year’s Governor General’s Award for children’s literature. -
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DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 51
businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed. To Dec 26, Granville Island Stage (1585 Johnston, Granville Island). Tix from $29, info www. artsclub.com/.
holiday ar ts/ timeout
2THIS WEEK CHRISTMAS QUEEN 2 The Vancouver TheatreSports League presents a holidaythemed improv-comedy show that sees a larger-than-life fairy-tale character create chaos in Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workshop on Christmas Eve. To Dec 20, The Improv Centre (1502 Duranleau, Granville Island). Tix $10-22, info www.vtsl.com/show/christmas-queen-2/. THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE THE NUTCRACKER An adults-only tribute to the spooky holiday magic of Tim Burton features circus, burlesque, and live music. Dec 4-5, 11-12, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Info www.riotheatre.ca/.
CHRISTMAS 2OPENINGS MRS. CLAUSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S KITCHEN Family-friendly holiday musical sees Mrs. Claus discover a magical recipe for drawing families together. Dec 2-20, Presentation House Theatre (333 Chesterfield Ave., North Van). Tix from $15, info 604-990-3474, www.phtheatre.org/.
HOLIDAY HOORAY Let Your Music Shine! with Lisa & Linda present a kid-friendly holiday concert. Dec 4, 10 am, 11:30 am, Vancouver Playhouse (600 Hamilton). The concert also runs Dec 5, 10 am, 11:30 am, at the Anvil Centre. Tix $15/7, info 604-8763434, www.vancouversymphony.ca/.
HANSEL AND GRETEL: AN EAST VAN PANTO The Cultch Presents Theatre Replacementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local spin on the classic fairy tale. Script by Charles Demers, with music by Veda Hille. Directed by Stephen Drover. Dec 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Jan 3, 2016, York Theatre (639 Commercial). Tix from $20, info www. thecultch.com/events/hansel-and-gretelan-east-van-panto/.
CHRISTMAS IN THE ORPHEUM The Vancouver Chamber Choir presents a holiday concert of material by Giovanni Gabrieli, Daniel Pinkham, Derek Healey, and Sir David Willcocks. Includes an audience sing-along. Dec 4, 8 pm, Orpheum Theatre (601 Smithe). Tix $20.50-55, info www.vancouverchamberchoir.com/.
CHRISTMAS CAROL: ON THE AIR Sara Rodgers directs a radio-play-style rendition of Charles Dickensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic Christmas tale of a miser who sees the error of his ways. Dec 4â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Jan 2, 2016, Pacific Theatre (1440 W. 12th). Tix $22.99-29.99, info www.pacifictheatre.org/season/2015-2016-season-3/ mainstage/a-christmas-carol-on-the-air/.
ALL IS CALM: THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE OF 1914 Chor Leoni and professional actors tell the true story of the Christmas Truce in the words and songs of the men who lived it. Dec 5, 3 pm, 8 pm, Queen Elizabeth Theatre (650 Hamilton). Tix $20-45, info www.chorleoni.org/concerts-events/ events/calm-christmas-truce-1914-2/.
A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE MUSICAL The Arts Club Theatre Company presents a festive musical about a young boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quest for an official Red Ryder carbineaction BB gun. Based on the 1983 film. To Dec 27, Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (2750 Granville). Tix from $29, info www. artsclub.com/.
THE RAINBOW CONCERT BAND GETS FRUITY AND NUTTY THIS SEASON The Rainbow Concert Band performs classics such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Peanut Vendorâ&#x20AC;? , â&#x20AC;&#x153;Visions of Sugar Plumsâ&#x20AC;?, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Walnut Grove Suiteâ&#x20AC;?, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cherry Redâ&#x20AC;?, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nutcracker Suiteâ&#x20AC;?. Dec 5, 7:30 pm, Vancouver Community College Broadway (1155 E. Broadway). Tix $20/15, info www.facebook.com/ events/1664245487150000/.
ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A WONDERFUL LIFE The Arts Club Theatre Company presents the holiday classic about an angel who helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated
HANDELâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MESSIAH The 120-voice choir of Capilano University is joined by a professional Baroque orchestra (Carolyn Cole concertmaster), and soloists soprano
2ONGOING
Heather Pawsey, countertenor Mark Donnelly, tenor Mark De Silva, and bass George Roberts. Lars Kaario conducts. Dec 5, 8 pm; Dec 6, 3 pm, BlueShore Financial Centre for the Performing Arts (2055 Purcell Way). Tix $30/25/10 , info www. capilanou.ca/blueshorefinancialcentre/15Handel-s-Messiah/.
CHRISTMAS WITH THE BACH CHOIR The Vancouver Bach Choir presents a concert of seasonal favourites performed by more than 400 singers. Dec 6, 2 pm, Orpheum Theatre (601 Smithe). Tix $29-65, info www.vancouverbachchoir.com/. CHRISTMAS AT THE CHAN CENTRE Conductor Joel Tranquilla leads five choirs and a full orchestra in an eclectic program that ranges from Renaissance classics to Irish pop-workshop songs. Dec 6, 2:30 pm, Chan Centre for the Performing Arts (6265 Crescent Rd., UBC). Tix $25/22.50, info www. twu.ca/academics/samc/events/2015-2016events/christmas-at-the-chan.html. SILENT NIGHT The British Columbia Boys Choir presents a holiday concert. Dec 6, 3 pm, Ryerson United Church (2195 W. 45th). Tix $24/12, info www.bcboyschoir.org/. SINGING THE SEASON WITH THE CHALICE CHOIR Spark your seasonal spirit with a concert of DvorĂĄkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mass in D, favourite carols, a string quintet led by Edgar Bridwell and Anne Duranceau, and a seasonal sing-along. Dec 6, 7:30 pm, Unitarian Church of Vancouver (949 W. 49th). Tix $20, info www.vancouverunitarians.ca/. STAR WARS HOLIDAY SPECIAL RADIO SPECTACULAR Live radio play parodies the infamous cult classic. Includes a costume contest, a trivia contest, and a sing along. Dec 8, 8-11 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $15-25, info www. eventbrite.com/.
2UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS Conductor Rosemary Thomson leads the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, the UBC Opera Ensemble, and EnChor in a holiday-music tradition. Hosted by Christopher Gaze. Dec 10-13, St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-Wesley United Church (1022 Nelson). The concert will also run Dec 16 at South Delta Baptist Church, Dec 17 at Bell Performing Arts Centre, Dec 18 at Centennial Theatre, Dec 19 at Kay Meek Theatre, and Dec 20 at Michael J. Fox Theatre. Tix $43/37/35, info 604-8763434, www.vancouversymphony.ca/.
BAH! HUMBUG! A new take on Charles Dickensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A Christmas Carol sees local songster Jim Byrnes star as a modernday, sushi-loving Scrooge. Presented by SFU Woodwardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cultural Programs and Vancouver Moving Theatre, in partnership with Full Circle Productions. Dec 10-19, 7:30-9 pm, SFU Goldcorp Centre for the Arts (149 W. Hastings). Tix $29/15, info www.sfu.ca/sfuwoodwards/events/ events1/2015-2016Fall/BahHumbug.html. CELEBRATE! A GOOD NOISE CHRISTMAS Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir presents gospel Christmas favourites and popular seasonal works. Dec 11-13, Christ Church Cathedral (690 Burrard). Tix $25, info www.brownpaper tickets.com/. HANDELâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MESSIAH The Vancouver Bach Choir presents the epic holiday masterwork. Soloists include soprano Simone Osborne, mezzo-soprano Susan Platts, tenor Andrew Haji, and baritone Daniel Okulitch. Dec 12, 8 pm, Orpheum Theatre (601 Smithe). Tix $29-65, info www. vancouverbachchoir.com/. CHANTEZ NOĂ&#x2039;L The Ryerson United Church Choir presents a holiday concert of music by Bach, Handel, Chilcott, Britten, Palestrina, and Scheidt. Dec 13, 2:30 pm, Ryerson United Church (2195 W. 45th). Tix $20/students and kids free, info www. facebook.com/events/148678498819877/. WHITE CHRISTMAS The Vancouver Pops Choir, Vancouver Pops Symphony, and the VOC Piano Quartets present an afternoon of celebratory music and holiday favourites. Dec 13, 3-5 pm, Chan Centre for the Performing Arts (6265 Crescent Rd., UBC). Tix $15-30, info www.chancentre.com/ whats-on/white-christmas. IMPROV AGAINST HUMANITY The Fictionals present a holiday-themed edition of the comedy show inspired by culthit card game Cards Against Humanity. Dec 16, 8-10 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $12/10, info www.thefictionals.com/. GOH BALLETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE NUTCRACKER Goh Ballet presents the classic Christmas ballet about a young girl and a gift that comes to life. Dec 17-22, 7:30-9:30 pm, The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts (777 Homer). Tix $35-100, info www.gohnutcracker.com/. CHRISTMAS WITH CHOR LEONI Chor Leoni performs favourite carols, Renaissance motets, sing-alongs, Bieblâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ave Maria, and a new carol by Terre Roche. Dec 18, 4:30 pm, 8 pm, St.
Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-Wesley United Church (1022 Nelson). The concert also runs Dec 19, 2 pm, at the West Vancouver United Church. Tix $10-40, info www.chorleoni.org/con certs-events/events/christmas-chor-leoni/. A DYLAN THOMAS CHRISTMAS The Vancouver Chamber Choir presents a concert of English, German, and international holiday songs as well as a performance of Dylan Thomasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas in Wales. Dec 18, 8 pm, Shaughnessy Heights United Church (1550 W. 33rd). Tix $27.50-32, info www.vancouverchamberchoir.com/. A CHRISTMAS REPRISE XIII The Vancouver Cantata Singers present a concert of traditional carols and a few newer holiday compositions. Dec 19, 2 pm, Holy Rosary Cathedral (646 Richards (at Dunsmuir)). Tix $30/20/10, info www. vancouvercantatasingers.com/. WINTER HARP Vancouver classical ensemble uses harps, flutes, medieval instruments, percussion, poetry, and song to evoke memories of Yuletides past. Dec 19, 7:30 pm, St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-Wesley United Church (1022 Nelson). Tix $38, info www.winterharp.com/. A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS The Vancouver Chamber Choir presents a concert performance of A Charlie Brown Christmas. Includes English, German, and international holiday songs. Dec 19, 8 pm, Shaughnessy Heights United Church (1550 W. 33rd). Tix $10-32, info www.vancouverchamberchoir.com/. FESTIVE CANTATAS: PRAETORIUS CHRISTMAS VESPERS Early Music Vancouver, in partnership with the Portland Baroque Orchestra, Early Music Guild of Seattle and Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Early Music Society of the Islands, presents a concert of Michael Praetoriusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work. Dec 20, 3 pm, Chan Centre for the Performing Arts (6265 Crescent Rd., UBC). Tix $17.50-66, info www.earlymusic.bc.ca/. THE SINGING HEART The Phoenix Chamber Choir presents a Christmas concert featuring new music and old favourites. Dec 20, 7:30 pm, Ryerson United Church (2195 W. 45th). Tix free to $25, info www.phoenixchoir.ca/. THE NUTCRACKER Ballet BC presents Alberta Ballet in the classic holiday ballet about a young girl and her magical Christmas gift. Includes live music by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Dec 29-31, Queen Elizabeth Theatre (650 Hamilton). Tix $35-110, info www.balletbc. com/performance/the-nutcracker/.
The Hit Holiday Musical Returns!
SARAH CHANG PERFORMS DVORĹ&#x201A; Ă K
Starring Lucia Frangione & Susan Anderson
SATURDAY & MONDAY, DECEMBER 5 & 7
Original direction and choreography by Jeff Hyslop Additional direction and dramaturgy by Max Reimer Music by Matt Grinke and the 10 Piece North Pole Orchestra
8PM, ORPHEUM THEATRE
Pietari Inkinen conductor Sarah Chang violin* JORDAN PAL Burn DVORĹ&#x201A; Ă K Violin Concerto in A minor* TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 4 in F minor
Book by Bill Allman, Alan Marriott & Kevin Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien
The VSO welcomes back to the Orpheum stage one of the most exciting violinists on the scene today, the incomparable Sarah Chang. Sarah plays 'YRÄ&#x2013;ÂŁNĹ&#x2018;V beautiful Violin Concerto, and renowned conductor Pietari Inkinen leads the orchestra in a performance of one of the most famous symphonies ever written, 7FKDLNRYVN\Ĺ&#x2018;V epic Symphony No. 4.
December 2 - 20 Presentation House Theatre 333 Chesterfield, North Vancouver
PRE-CONCERT TALK 7:05PM, FREE TO TICKETHOLDERS.
SARAH CHANG
MASTERWORKS GOLD SERIES SPONSOR
@VSOrchestra
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52 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 / 2015
Tickets: 604-990-3474 www.phtheatre.org Produced by GTI with the generous support of Famous Artists Limited
straight choices
Granville Island). Tix $25/20/15, info www.thebroadwaychorus.com/.
2ONGOING SOCIAL STUDIES Donna Spencer directs playwright Trish Cooper’s story about a South Sudanese boy who is adopted by a well-intentioned Winnipeg family. To Dec 5, Firehall Arts Centre (280 E. Cordova). Tix from $23, info www.firehallartscentre.ca/.
ar ts/ timeout THEATRE DANCE MUSIC COMEDY LITERARY EVENTS ET CETERA GALLERIES MUSEUMS OUT OF TOWN
JOHN AND BEATRICE Vortex Theatre presents Québécois playwright Carole Fréchette’s play about a woman who awaits the man who will deliver her from solitude. To Dec 5, Dusty Flower Shop (2050 Scotia). Tix $18-20, info www.brown papertickets.com/event/2402408/.
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THEATRE 2JUST ANNOUNCED MURDER MYSTERY DINNER Event sees professional actors put a comedic spin on the classic whodunnit. Dec 17, 7-10 pm, Ten Ten Tapas (1010 Beach Ave). Tix $68, info www.tententapas.com/.
2OPENINGS UNSEX’D The frank theatre company presents the story of two boy actors who fight it out for the role of Lady Macbeth in Shakespeare’s newest play. Dec 2-5, PAL Theatre (8th floor, 581 Cardero). Tix $20, info www.thefranktheatre.com/. HOW MUCH ARE THOSE FEELINGS IN THE WINDOW? KinkyFish Theatre and Share Productions presents the story of four characters of different nationalities struggling to balance the cost of love in Vancouver. Dec 2-5, 8 pm, Havana Theatre (1212 Commercial). Tix $15, info www.facebook.com/fitwplay/. PETER N’ CHRIS AND THE KINDA OK CORRAL The Vancouver Fringe Festival presents a Wild West adventure from Canadian Comedy Award-winning sketch troupe Peter n’ Chris. Dec 3-5, 8-9 pm, Studio 1398 (1398 Cartwright, Granville Island). Tix $25, info www.vancouverfringe. com/fringe-presents/. MATCH GIRL Port Moody’s Rebel Haunt Theatre partners with Stone’s Throw
A MESSAGE OF PEACE If you missed the hit show last season, now’s your chance to catch a serene night of theatre, music, and history. In All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914, the men’s choir Chor Leoni and a team of actors tell the true story of World War 1, when a German soldier stepped into No Man’s Land and began singing “Stille Nacht” (“Silent Night”), briefly stopping the brutal battle and prompting an evening of carols. The performers relive the words of letters and songs from that night in a work written and directed by Peter Rothstein, with musical arrangements by Chor Leoni artistic director Erick Lichte (shown here) and Timothy C. Takach. The show sees its remount Saturday (December 5) at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Productions to present a new play by Sarah Dixon. Based on the story by Hans Christian Andersen. Dec 5-18, 7:25-7:45 pm, Pacific Theatre (1440 W. 12th). Info www. pacifictheatre.org/.
CHELSEA HOTEL, THE SONGS OF LEONARD COHEN Creator-director Tracey Power’s production sees six musicians play 17 instruments in a tribute to the songs of Leonard Cohen. Dec 8-13, Anvil Centre (777 Columbia St., New Westminster). Tix $30-40, info www.ticketsnw.ca/. THE EMPIRE STRIKES A POSE: DRAG QUEENS VS ALIENS A 40-person cast performs a musical mashup featuring songs from Heathers, Hamilton, and Fun Home. Dec 9-12, 8-10:30 pm, Performance Works (1218 Cartwright,
FLEE Electric Company Theatre, Studio 58, Barking Sphinx Performance, the Elbow Theatre, and the Arrival Agency present director Jonathon Young’s play about a destitute watchmaker who’s down on his luck. To Dec 6, Fox Cabaret (2321 Main). Tix $10-35, info www.ticketstonight.ca/. PETER AND THE STARCATCHER The Arts Club Theatre Company presents director Rick Elice’s adaptation of Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson’s Peter Pan prequel. Music by Wayne Barker. To Dec 27, Goldcorp Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre (162 W.1st). Tix from $29, info 604687-1644, www.artsclub.com/. MADAME BOVARY Studio 58 and AnimalParts present an experimental adaptation of Gustave Flaubert’s 19thcentury French masterpiece. To Dec 6, Studio 58 (Langara College, 100 W. 49th). Admission by donation, info www.facebook.com/events/374656632721299/. THE DAISY THEATRE Renowned puppeteer provocateur Ronnie Burkett and his resident company of over 40 marionettes perform unique shows. To Dec 20, The Cultch (1895 Venables). Tix from $20, info www.thecultch.com/.
DANCE 2THIS WEEK BOOK OF LOVE Kokoro Dance celebrates its 30th season with a new, viscerally engaging work for four dancers. To Dec 5, 8 pm, Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre (183 Roundhouse Mews). Tix $25-30, info www.kokoro.ca/. TO.BE.ANNOUNCED CHOREOGRAPHIC SHOWCASE Works by local dance artists MAYCE, Iris Lau, Cody Cox, Kylah Powell, Nicole Fox, Warehaus Dance Collective, Akeisha De Baat/Nathan Todd, and Jen Aoki/Jenn Edwards with Zane Barratt. Dec 3-4, 8-11 pm, Beaumont Studios (316
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Going Home Star Truth h+ Reco onciliation o ncilia ation Reconciliation
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A TRADITIONAL
DANCER: SOPHIA LEE | PHOTO: RÉJEAN BRANDT PHOTOGRAPHY
Sta
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r I See Tonight t, First Sta r Brigh t, Sta l
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CHRISTMAS WITH THE VSO
ST. ANDREW’S-WESLEY CHURCH, VANCOUVER Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 pm Friday, December 11 at 4 pm & 7:30 pm Saturday, December 12 at 4 pm & 7:30 pm Sunday, December 13 at 7:30 pm
SOUTH DELTA BAPTIST CHURCH, DELTA Wednesday, December 16 at 7:30 pm
BELL PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, SURREY Thursday, December 17 at 4:30 pm & 8 pm
CENTENNIAL THEATRE, NORTH VANCOUVER Friday, December 18 at 4 pm & 7:30 pm
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Ticketmaster.ca 1.855.985.ARTS (2787)
MICHAEL J. FOX THEATRE, BURNABY
Members of the VSO
Sunday, December 20 at 4 pm & 7:30 pm
choreography Mark Godden | based on a story by Joseph Boyden music Christos Hatzis | featuring the music of Tanya Tagaq (winner of the 2014 Polaris Music Prize) and Steve Wood & The Northern Cree Singers
April 7 - 9 / 2016 at 8pm
Rosemary Thomson conductor Christopher Gaze host UBC Opera Ensemble EnChor Metro Vancouver’s most beloved Holiday music tradition plays to sold out houses in Burnaby, the North Shore, Surrey, Delta, and downtown Vancouver. Tickets sell out fast — get yours today!
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vancouversymphony.ca 604.876.3434 DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 53
PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT!
Arts time out
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W. 5th). Tix $20, info www.tbadance.word press.com/.
BALLET BC UP’S BALLET 101 DANCE CLASS An exclusive dance class taught by Ballet BC dancers. No experience required. Dec 5, 10 am–12 pm, Scotiabank Dance Centre (677 Davie). Tix $25/free for members, info conta.cc/1XcwZ4b/.
MUSIC 2THIS WEEK DARK SISTERS The Vancouver Opera presents the Canadian premiere of Nico Muhly’s provocative opera. Libretto by Stephen Karam. To Dec 12, Vancouver Playhouse (600 Hamilton). Tix from $35, info 604-683-0222, www.vancouveropera.ca/. SUMMER MUSIC The VSO Chamber Players perform Barber’s Summer Music, Nielsen’s Wind Quintet, Op. 43, and Fauré’s Piano Quartet in C Minor, Op. 15. Dec 2, 7:30 pm; Dec 3, 7:30 pm; Dec 6, 2 pm, Pyatt Hall (843 Seymour). Info 604-8763434, www.vancouversymphony.ca/.
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CHELSEA HOTEL Anvil Centre Theatre presents a Firehall Arts Centre production
The Songs of
Leonard Cohen
Conceived and Directed by
Tracey Power
Charles
Anvil Centre Photo: Grant Mattice
Ben Elliott, Marlene Ginader & Lauren Bowler
David Cooper Photography
Musical Direction by Steve
“a knockout!” Colin Thomas The Georgia Straight
QUEEN ELIZABETH THEATRE | VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE | ORPHEUM | ANNEX
December 04, 05, 11 & 12
VANCOUVER CIVIC THEATRES
Media partner
ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR ORPHEUM Vancouver Chamber Choir: Christmas in the Orpheum Dec 4 | 8pm | 1.855.985.5000 ticketmaster.ca 962 0DVWHUZRUNV 6DUDK &KDQJ 3OD\V 'YRĕiN Dec 5 & 7 | 8pm | 604.876.3434 vancouversymphony.ca Christmas With the Bach Choir Dec 6 | 2pm | 604.696.4290 vancouverbachchoir.com Vancouver Bach Choir: Handel’s Messiah Dec 12 | 8pm | 604.696.4290 vancouverbachchoir.com
ANNEX
QUEEN ELIZABETH THEATRE Chor Leoni: All is Calm Dec 5 | 3 & 8pm | 604.684.2787 ticketstonight.ca
QUEEN ELIZABETH PLAZA Vancouver Christmas Market To Dec 24 | 11am - 9pm vancouverchristmasmarket.ca
VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE Vancouver Opera: Dark Sisters To Dec 12 | 7:30pm & 2pm | 604.683.0222 vancouveropera.ca VSO Tiny Tots: Holiday Hooray! Dec 4 | 10 & 11:30am | 604.876.3434 vancouversymphony.ca media sponsor
Dec 8 - 13
Anvil Centre Theatre 777 Columbia St, New Westminster
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604.521.5050
ANVIL CENTRE IS LOCATED ACROSS FROM THE NEW WESTMINSTER SKYTRAIN STATION VISIT THE NEW MEDIA GALLERY AND NW MUSEUM WHEN YOU ATTEND - FREE
54 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
PIANOFORTE POR FLAMENCO Concert fuses classical piano music with flamencodance rhythms. Dec 5, 7 pm, Pyatt Hall (843 Seymour). Tix $28, info www.orianawhite. com/concerts.php. THE SFU CHOIR’S WINTER WINDS The local classical ensemble performs works by C.P.E. Bach and John Tavener. Dec 5, 7:30 pm, Ryerson United Church (2195 W. 45th). Tix $20/10/kids free, info www. sfuchoir.ca/. IMPROMPTU ROCK CHOIR: EAST VANCOUVER Sing classic and contemporary rock, pop and indie songs with a non-traditional drop-in choir. Dec 8, 7:30-9 pm, WISE Hall (1882 Adanac). Tix $10, info www.impromptumusic.ca/.
COMEDY 2ONGOING LAFFLINES COMEDY CLUB 530 Columbia St., New Westminster, 604-525-2262, www.laff lines.com/. 2EDDIE DELLA SIEPE Dec 4-5
don’t miss out! For up-to-the-minute, searchable Arts Time Out listings, visit
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Dr. Lonnie Smith & The Jill Townsend Big Band Dec 4 & 5 | 8pm | 1.888.732.1682 coastaljazz.ca
@vancivictheatre #myVCT
UBC SYMPHONY WITH UBC CHORAL UNION AND UNIVERSITY SINGERS Jonathan Girard conducts the classical ensembles ina performance of Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 1 “Classical” and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125 “Choral”. Dec 4-5, 8 pm, Chan Shun Concert Hall (6265 Crescent Rd., Chan Centre at UBC). Tix $18/8, info www.music.ubc.ca/.
THE COMEDY MIX 1015 Burrard, Century Plaza Hotel & Spa, 604-684-5050, www. thecomedymix.com/. Comedy club with pro-am night Tue at 8:30 pm, showcase Wed at 8:30 pm, and featured headliners Thu at 8:30 pm and Fri-Sat at 8 & 10:30 pm. Cover $8 Tue, $10 Wed, $15 Thu, $18 Fri, $20 Sat. 2MIKE VECCHIONE Dec 3-5 2ILIZA SCHLESINGER Jan 14-16 2BRYAN CALLEN Jan 21-23 2DEBRA DIGIOVANNI Jan 28-30 YUK YUK’S COMEDY CLUB 2837 Cambie, 604-696-9857, www.yukyuks.com/. Comedy club with amateur night Wed at 8 pm, talent showcase Thu at 8 pm, headliners Fri-Sat at 7 pm and 9:30 pm. Cover $7 Wed, $10 Thu, $20 Fri-Sat. 2GODFREY Dec 4-5 QUEER PROV, MONDAY NIGHTS LGBTfriendly improv comedy. To Dec 14, 8-9:30 pm, XY (1216 Bute). Free admission, info www.facebook.com/Queer-Prov-QueerImprov-Comedy-92172819596/. VANCOUVER THEATRESPORTS LEAGUE Some of the world’s most daring and innovative improv. Christmas Queen 2 (every Wed, Thu, Fri, and Sat, 7:30 pm); Improv After Dark (every Fri and Sat, 11:15 pm); Off Leash (every Wed and Thu, 9:15 pm); Rookie Night (every Sun, 7:30 pm); TheatreSports (every Fri and Sat, 9:30 pm). Dec 2-9, The Improv Centre (1502 Duranleau, Granville Island). Tix $8-22, info www.vtsl.com/.
2THIS WEEK KYLE JONES Kyle Jones hosts an evening of standup comedy by Marlo Franson. Dec 2-3, 9:30-11:55 pm, Deep South Public House (420 West Pender ). Tix $5, info www.maddogstudioscomedy.com/. MIKE VECCHIONE American standup comedian performs a solo show. Dec 3-5, The Comedy MIX (1015 Burrard, Century Plaza Hotel & Spa). Tix $20/18/15, info www.thecomedymix.com/.
YEAR IN REVIEW
EDDIE DELLA SIEPE Standup comedian performs a solo show, with guests Jerod Borland and Matt Billon. Dec 4, 9:30-11 pm; Dec 5, 9-11 pm, Lafflines Comedy Club (530 Columbia Street). Tix $20/18, info www.lafflines.com/.
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SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN BROS Sam Lee hosts a standup-comedy show featuring headliner Kwasi Thomas and Patricia Morrison, Stuart Jones, Humam Mustafa, Gavin Clarkson, Curtis Pyke, Mark O’Keeffe, and James Burr. Dec 5, 8-10 pm, Manchester Public Eatery (1941
ISSUE • DEcEmbEr 17
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straight choices
Cabaret, and Frankie’s Italian Kitchen. Tix $21-36, info www.chutzpahfestival.com/.
2THIS WEEK KOOZA Cirque du Soleil presents writerdirector David Shiner’s production that uses acrobatics and clowning to tell the story of a loner in search of his place in the world. To Dec 27, Concord Pacific Place (88 Pacific). Tix from $45 at www.cirquedusoleil. com/, info www.cirquedusoleil.com/. THE PANCAKES & BOOZE ART SHOW Underground art show features over 65 emerging artists, live body painting, music, an art battle, and a free all-youcan-eat pancake bar. Dec 3, 7 pm, Fortune Sound Club (147 E. Pender). Tix $5, info www.fb.com/events/602515956549743/.
NOT-SO-TOUGH GUY The buzzcut comedian has been described as looking like everything from a cop to a firefighter to a weightlifter. In fact, in one of his better-known bits, Michael Vecchione acknowledges he looks like one of those “Staten Island, keep-it-moving, I’m-goingto-racially-profile-you-type cops”. And when you first see him step on the Comedy MIX stage this Thursday to Saturday night (December 3 to 5), you might expect him to roll out a tough-guy routine. But the standup, a semi-finalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing whom you might have seen on the Tonight Show With Jay Leno or in his own half-hour special on Comedy Central, is smart and selfeffacing, even hilariously insecure and vulnerable at times. Yeah, he’s working against type and acknowledging it, and it’s funnier that way. W. Broadway). Tix $12/10, info www. facebook.com/events/711630675603577/.
IF I WERE YOU Jake Hurwitz and Amir Blumenfeld do a live podcast. Presented by Just for Laughs. Dec 6, 7 pm, Vogue Theatre (918 Granville). Tix $20 at www. ticketfly.com/.
LITERARY EVENTS 2THIS WEEK READ ME A STORY EXHIBITION Explore a multicultural collection of folktales and fairy tales from around the world, interact with gigantic murals illustrating timeless folktales, and reserve your classroom or youth group for free B.C. curriculumrelevant workshops. Dec 8-16, Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre (183 Roundhouse Mews). Free admission, info www.readmeastory.ca/. STORY SLAM CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS The grand finale of a year-long storytelling competition features Alexis Sugden, Emma Cooper, Jo Dworschak, John Cullen, Johnny Scoop, Mark Hughes, Marylee Stephenson, Ruth Wadge, Shlomo McPeake, and Steve Elliott. Dec 8, 8-10 pm, Cottage Bistro (4470 Main). Tix $10, info www.facebook.com/VancouverStorySlam/. BERNADETTE CALONEGO: UNDER DARK WATERS International mystery writer Bernadette Calonego reads from her latest thriller Under Dark Waters. Dec 9, 7-8:30 pm, Alma VanDusen Room (Vancouver Public Library, 350 W. Georgia). Free admissin, info www.vpl.ca/.
PIECES OF A FOREST Immersive art experience inspired by the forests in our towns. Dec 9, 5:30-7:30 pm, Woodwards Atrium (149 W. Hastings). Free admission, info www.eventbrite.ca/e/pieces-of-aforest-vancouver-tickets-19367236927/.
GALLERIES VANCOUVER ART GALLERY 750 Hornby, 604-662-4719, www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/. 2NEXT: A SERIES OF ARTIST PROJECTS FROM THE PACIFIC RIM (Vancouver-based artist Christos Dikeakos considers the economic and cultural values involved in transactions of Northwest Coast art) to Jan 31 2THE GUND COLLECTION: CONTEMPORARY AND HISTORICAL ART FROM THE NORTHWEST COAST (exhibition features a group of historical and contemporary First Nations artwork from the Northwest Coast, drawn from the Collection of George Gund III) to Jan 31 2THE CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF THE NEW VANCOUVER ART GALLERY (explore the conceptual design for the new Vancouver Art Gallery, created by Herzog & de Meuron) to Jan 24 2EMBRACING CANADA: LANDSCAPES FROM KRIEGHOFF TO THE GROUP OF SEVEN (exhibition surveys the history of artistic engagement with the Canadian landscape from c. 1840 to 1940, a period that produced many Canadian artists) to Jan 24
MUSEUMS MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY 6393 NW Marine Dr., UBC, 604-822-5087, www. moa.ubc.ca/. 2CESNA EM, THE CITY BEFORE THE CITY (one of three unified exhibitions that connect Vancouverites with the ancient village and burial site upon which Vancouver was built. Highlights include soundscapes, original videography, and family-friendly interactivity) to Dec 30 2(IN)VISIBLE: THE SPIRITUAL WORLD OF TAIWAN THROUGH CONTEMPORARY ART (collection of artistic mediums from seven Taiwanese artists, whose works explore the coexistence of modernity and tradition, while examining the significance of the spiritual world in present-day Taiwan) to Apr 3 MUSEUM OF VANCOUVER 1100 Chestnut, 604-736-4431, www.museumofvancouver. ca/. 2CESNA EM, THE CITY BEFORE THE CITY (one of three unified exhibitions that connect Vancouverites with the ancient village and burial site upon which Vancouver was built. Highlights include soundscapes, original videography, and family-friendly interactivity) to Dec 30
OUT OF TOWN 2UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS
2JUST ANNOUNCED
AMY SCHUMER American superstar comic and actor performs a New Year’s Eve comedy show. Dec 31, 8 pm, Key Arena (305 Harrison St., Seattle, WA). Tix US$146/75.50/55.50/40.50 (plus service charges and fees) at www.ticketmaster.ca/.
16TH ANNUAL CHUTZPAH! FESTIVAL Dance, theatre, comedy, and music highlight this year’s festival with performances and workshops by international, Canadian, and local artists. Feb 18–Mar 13, 2016, Norman Rothstein Theatre (950 W. 41st). The event also runs at Biltmore Cabaret, Jewish Community Centre, Fox
TIME OUT ARTS LISTINGS are a public service provided free of charge, based on available space and editorial discretion. Submit listings online using the event-submission form at straight.com/AddEvent. Events that don’t make it into the paper due to space constraints will appear on the website.
ET CETERA
Name one DISEASE SO SINISTER it causes blindness, kidney failure, amputations, strokes and heart attacks.
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 55
presents
NO COVER
The Trio Tr io Dec 4 Dec 28 Dec 29
HONEYBOY WILSON WOODY JAMES SONS OF THE HOE
NO COVER • DAILY HAPPY HAPPY HOUR HOUR • TRY OUR OUR LOCALLY LOCALLY LOCA ALLY BREWED IVANHOE LAGER & IVANHOE PALE ALE
1038 Main St • (604) 608-1444 1 block North Main St SkyTrain
FRI DEC 4
* DENY YOUR MAKER * W.D.C. * UTILITY PROVIDER *
Photo: Ivan Otis
SAT DEC 5
JARVIS CHURCH DECEMBER 10 | 8PM
THREE-TIME JUNO AWARD WINNER, AND LEAD SINGER FOR THE R&B-POP GROUP THE PHILOSOPHER KINGS.
Enter to win a pair of tickets Full details at
56 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
604-205-3000 | shadboltcentre.com
* THIRD ANNUAL MORGAN MUSICFEST * DOORS 6PM TIX $10 * POTLUCK 6:30PM MUSIC 7:30PM * SIX TO MIDNIGHT * FRIENDS JAM * FOLLOWED BY SAT DEC 5
* ANNUAL DIMEBAG DARRELL TRIBUTE SHOW WITH PANTERA PLAYED BY * VANTERA * WITH GUESTS * APPRENTICE * MERIDIUS * DOORS AT 9PM * FRI DEC 11
* LA CHINGA * SMASH ALLEY * WETT STILETTOS * MAKING STRANGERS * SAT DEC 12
* KILLER TRIBUTES * KILLING MACHINE [JUDAS PRIEST] * BLACKOUT [SCORPIONS] *
MUSIC
Even though BY M IKE US IN G ER
there was no need to, Half Moon Run decided to do some experimenting while wrapping up the recording of its justreleased sophomore album, Sun Leads Me On. The mission was simple: to write the kind of pop song guaranteed to get major saturation on commercial radio. “In the last few days of recording we shut down production and said, ‘Let’s just see if we can bang out something,’ ” Vancouver Island–raised guitarist Conner Molander says, on the line from his adopted home of Montreal. “You know when people try and figure out what will work on the radio—what a radio sensibility is? We normally rebel against that whole notion, but this time we said, ‘We have some sense of what works on radio, so why don’t we try and write something that we think will be a smash hit?’ ” As easy as it seemed, that didn’t make the process enjoyable. “It just felt gut-rotten in no time flat,” Molander says with a laugh. “We recorded some stuff, but we ditched it. And funny enough, the song that we tried to turn into something that would work on the radio reminded us that we tried to do the same thing on Dark Eyes. The same thing happened—we hit the same wall, and now have learned the same lesson twice with the same damn song idea. It taught us you have to do what feels right, and that there are no other standards that you can hold yourselves to.”
A new tone in every tune
The deeply spiritual guys who make up Half Moon Run were kind enough to ask the friendly ghosts who haunt them to tag along for a recent photo shoot.
“We all play a lot of different instruments,” Molander says. “Devon and I also have this sort of unspoken thing that we do where we don’t use the same guitar tone on Half Moon Run does what feels right, which any two tracks—we alincludes playing with an ever-changing palette ways change up our tone Things are working out just fine for Half Moon and have a new kind of style that we’re going for. Run despite the fact the band has yet to score a Muse- Because there’s no real formula where we have a or Coldplay-like smash. The quartet has become a designated bass player, guitar player, or drummer, runaway success in Montreal, celebrating the release everyone is always trying new things on all kinds of Sun Leads Me On with four sold-out shows at the of things. When you end up with all kinds of difOrpheum-sized Metropolis Theatre. (That’s 10,000 ferent tools at your disposal you get all kinds of artickets moved, putting Half Moon Run on the same rangements. The group of people is the same, but the sounds are constantly changing.” hometown footing as the likes of Arcade Fire.) That idea of constant change has in some ways Since landing on the indie-rock map with its 2012 debut, Dark Eyes, Half Moon Run has toured marked Molander’s time in Montreal. Raised in exhaustively in both North America and Europe, Comox, he moved east at the age of 19 after spendscored invites to Glastonbury and Reading, and ing a couple of months travelling. His initial inshared bills with megastars like Mumford & Sons. tent was to study psychology at McGill University, That last connection is important, as Half Moon that going out the window after he began jamRun—which includes singer Devon Portielje and ming with Half Moon Run. “I have a big family—five kids, and I’m the oldest,” multi-instrumentalists Dylan Phillips and Isaac Symonds—records for Communion, a label partly Molander says. “When I moved out here, I was still very grounded as to what my family values were—I owned by Mumford’s Ben Lovett. Following in the tradition of Dark Eyes, Sun was still the person that I was while growing up with Leads Me On gives one a good idea what might my parents in their house. Then when I joined the have caught Lovett’s attention. The album kicks band, it was really intensive, especially the travelling off with the Dixieland-meets-chamber-folk when we were sort of at a lower level. I was constantbeauty “Warmest Regards”, which begins with ly discombobulated, to the point where, for a long analogue tape hiss before being flooded with soft time, I felt like I was losing track of my past.” Molander quickly realized he had to refocus. strings and blissed-out keyboards. Neon-dipped “In those early days, we were drinking too synths, metronome-perfect drums, and chillwave guitars all battle for star billing on the hypnotic much,” he reveals. “A year ago, I told myself ‘The “Consider Yourself”, while “Turn Your Love” band has kind of broken through, and we have counterbalances space-transmission washes of some momentum.’ I thought about all the energy we put into getting the band off the ground in the six-string with a smoky soft-jazz interlude. As much as Sun Leads Me On seems built early days, and realized to keep that going I need for those whose iPods are top-loaded with the to direct my energy into keeping myself mentally likes of Of Monsters and Men, the Head and the stable and living a healthier life.” Heart, and Mumford & Sons, there are also moHe remembers coming off the tour for Dark ments of introspective beauty. High-lonesome har- Eyes knowing that the writing process needed monica pulls “Hands in the Garden” out of vintage to get started for Sun Leads Me On. Half Moon paisley-pop territory, and hushed acoustic guitar Run instead caught a set by Norway’s Mikhael makes “It Works Itself Out” a go-to soundtrack for Paskalev, a friend who was touring North Amerquiet nights in a backwoods cabin. ica solo because he couldn’t afford to hire a band.
CHECK THIS OUT
HE WILL ROCK YOU Some 20,000 Singaporeans have signed a petition to keep Adam Lambert from performing there, citing his promotion of LGBT rights and the “lewd acts” he performs on-stage. That’s rich coming from 20,000 people who have publicly wedged their heads up their asses.
MUSE You know you’ve made it when people make Facebook pages in honour of individual parts of your body. One such page, Matt Bellamy’s Rebel Tooth, celebrates the off-kilter smile of Muse’s snaggle-fanged frontman. It sort of makes sense. That one tooth stands in defiance of the orderly formation of the rest of his choppers in much the same way that Muse’s songs stand in opposition to the military-industrial-corporate-intelligence machinery conspiring to turn us all into straight-toothed, mindless drones. And Drones, in fact, is the title of Muse’s latest album, recorded right here in Vancouver with producer Mutt Lange. Smile! Muse plays Rogers Arena next Thursday (December 10).
Half Moon Run plays the Imperial on Tuesday (December 8).
in + out
Conner Molander sounds off on the things enquiring minds want to know.
On trying to write a hit: “What you come up with isn’t a solid foundation—it’s trickery. And that’s not what we’re in the business of.” On recording: “We don’t try and preconceive what a song is going to sound like. It’s more ‘The best way to know that something works is when you like it in your gut.’ That shows you’re having fun.” On being open-minded: “In ‘Consider Yourself’ Dylan came into a morning jam with this crazy keyboard part he’d been up all night working on. It was crazy, and that’s where you ask yourself ‘Can we do this, because it’s so fucking weird?’ And the answer is often ‘Yes.’ ”-
MUSIC Let’s talk about
You gotta see
Molander and company offered to back him up for subsequent Canadian shows on the road, which didn’t pan out. But just the thought of getting back in the van was enough to make Half Moon Run restless, so the group packed up and hit the highway the next morning. “It was so impulsive, and not long after we’d been on tour,” Molander relates. “I had to think about how I was going to explain it to my girlfriend, driving across the country after being away. In my mind, I had a good justification for it. Then I realized while we were driving away that I’m uncomfortable being at home. I don’t know how to sit in the same space, because I’m addicted to being on the road. A lot of positives came out of that realization.” Part of that was changing things up, with Half Moon Run doing shorter swings these days and travelling in a tour bus to ensure everyone has their space. And then there’s the knowledge that sometimes you can find yourself in a band that’s doing just fine even without that monster hit. -
HIGH FOR THIS Do you like the Weeknd? Of course you do. Everyone does. But do you like him enough to spend US$325 on a vaporizer that plays a ringtone version of “The Hills” when you turn it on? If you do, we’re totally not judging you. (Sucker.) WELL I WONDER J.K. Rowling recently told the Guardian that she met Morrissey in a department store. No word on whether she promised to write another Harry Potter book in exchange for a Smiths reunion, but we can dream, can’t we? MUSIC CRITICISM 101 A writer for Mic prematurely posted a review of Rihanna’s supposedly “edgier” new album, Anti, last week. Problem is, the record hadn’t come out yet, and the critic in question hadn’t heard it. Whoopsy-daisy!
Fresh and local CINDY LEE MALENKOST (ISOLATED NOW WAVES) By now it’s beyond cliché to describe anything as David Lynch– ian, but Cindy Lee’s “Always Lovers” sounds like a broadcast-frombeyond-the-grave version of “Just You”—you know, the ’50s-style ballad James sings with Donna and Maddy in Twin Peaks. “Prayer of Baphomet” is a similar undead lullaby, but things get noisier elsewhere, with tracks like “Cash Money” and “Coroner of the State” dominated by atonal drones and squeals, all treated with enough reverb to drown a cat. If you’ve ever wondered what a garage-pop record produced by Throbbing Gristle would sound like, Malenkost should give you a pretty good idea. Get David Lynch on the phone! -
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 57
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What to buy for hard-to-please music fans makes things a little easier by rolling out some of the coolest merch in pop music. As fans of the man behind the White Stripes, the Dead Weather, and the Raconteurs know, White runs Third Man Records, which is part record label, part recording studio, and full-time fun factory. The latest gadget to roll off the assembly line is the Terz all-metal-shell amplifier, in basic black with taxicab yellow knobs or styling yellow with coal-black knobs. Designed and manufactured for Third Man by Brooklyn’s Critter & Guitari company, the 15-watt amp promises a “hybrid of classic analog amplification circuitry and cutting edge power electronics”, as well as separate distortion and volume settings. The only thing it can’t promise is that you’ll look as styling as Jack White when you rip into “Seven Nation Army”. (US$250 at thirdmanstore.com/)
> B Y J O HN L U C A S A N D M IK E U S IN G ER
I
t’s getting harder and harder to buy gifts for music fans. In 2015, absolutely no one in their right mind wants more CDs cluttering up their home, and if they want to listen to something, why would they buy it at the iTunes store when they could stream it for free on Spotify? There are exceptions, though. In this digital age, sometimes you want something tangible. Like an honest-to-God vinyl LP like the ones you spent hours poring over at your grandparents’ house when you were a kid and still had the time for that sort of thing. Or a good book, by which we mean an actual object made of bound paper and not just something you download onto your Kobo. Maybe you have musicians on your list but not quite enough disposable income to cover a vintage (i.e., nonreplica) 1952 Fender Telecaster or 14-karat-gold-plated Sonor “Jet Set” drums. You could, however, probably swing a kit that would allow your favourite music-maker to construct a working analogue synthesizer. And who wouldn’t want to do that? You’ll find that and more among our suggestions in the list below, and you can order all of them online. Because sometimes living in the digital age has its advantages. CHORUS BY LUSH Of all the first-
wave British shoegazing bands, the recently reunited Lush was perhaps the most lightweight—but not necessarily in a bad way. There was something ethereally transcendent about the way the feathery vocal harmonies of Miki Berenyi and Emma Anderson blended with the guitars, which were liberally saturated with chorus effect (hence the title of this boxed set, presumably). Collecting everything released on Lush’s albums and compilations, from 1990’s Gala to 1996’s Topolino, plus previously unreleased demos and tracks from radio sessions, Chorus is a thorough exploration of an all-toobrief career. (US$44.55 at lush.sand baghq.com/chorus.html)
HUNGER MAKES ME A MODERN GIRL: A MEMOIR BY CARRIE BROWNSTEIN Those who’ll argue
that everything looks better when you put a bird on it know Carrie Brownstein as one of the core players on Portlandia. But before TV stardom there was Sleater-Kinney, one of the American underground’s greatest-ever antirock bands. The crisply written memoir Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl is aimed at those who love Brownstein best when she’s holding a Gibson
Our gift picks for 2015 include (clockwise from left) Lush’s Chorus box, MimoPower Tubes, and Third Man’s Terz amp. LOOPY LOU Simplicity itself: Loopy Lou is a wooden box with a knob, two buttons, and a switch, plus some mysterious electronic doodads inside. You can use it to record sounds and then loop them and change the pitch. If you give it to a friend who enjoys beatboxing, Loopy Lou will open up new worlds of rhythm. If you give it to a kid who enjoys making fart noises, you will be driven insane within minutes. Did we mention that Loopy Lou has an output jack for headphones? You might find that it comes in handy. Loopy Lou is handmade in Red Hook, Brooklyn, from sustainable American-sourced wood, lovingly assembled in an old brick-walled loft by a dude with a two-foot-long beard and blackframed glasses. (We made some of those details up, but you get the idea.) (US$76 at brandnewnoise.my LITTLEBITS SYNTH KIT Haven’t shopify.com/products/loopy-lou/) you always wanted to build your own working analogue modular synthe- MIMOCO MIMOPOWER TUBES sizer? Sure you have. Let your inner Never mind accidentally ingesting 10 Bob Moog out to play with this kit, tabs of brown acid or ending up on developed by littleBits in partnership the wrong end of a modified pool cue with Korg. Using magnets, you can at an impromptu Hells Angels piñata snap the 12 electronic components party—today’s festivalgoers have bigtogether in various configurations to ger concerns. You want traumatizing? create different sounds (some of them That would be watching your iPhone possibly even listenable). While this kit battery drain to three percent while could be classified as a toy—littleBits standing in a Sea-to-Sky Highway recommends it for ages 8 and up—it field where Port-a-Potties outnumber has the endorsement of musical heavy- electrical outlets 100 to 1. You have weights like Hans Zimmer and Brian options, of course, but who wants to Eno, the latter suggesting it could be carry a bricklike myCharge around “the birth of a new kind of music”. He’s for the entire day? Instead, opt for Mispent far too much time in close quar- moco’s MimoPower Tube, the appeal ters with Bono, but Eno usually knows of which is partly that it’s lipstick-sized what he’s talking about. (US$159 at but mostly that it features the kind of pop-culture art that makes you glad littlebits.cc/kits/synth-kit/)
SG, the guitarist and all-round Renaissance woman concentrating on the band that first made her famous. So while you’ll get insights into her personal life—a troubled and unstable mother, a father who came out as gay when Brownstein was in her 20s— Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl is mostly for anyone who’s ever built a road-trip mix tape around Dig Me Out or All Hands on the Bad One. Each of Sleater-Kinney’s essential albums is discussed in exhaustive detail, but just as interesting is the background dirt. The latter includes Brownstein’s failed relationship with Corin Tucker and, revealingly, her major role in the group going on hiatus after 2005’s well-received The Woods. The only way to make Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl cooler? That’s easy: put a bird on it. ($21.91 at amazon.ca/)
you never miss an installment of the Straight’s Nerd Alert. Star Wars fanatics will opt for an R2-D2 or Luke’s Lightsaber charger. Adventure Time disciples will want the Finn, Marceline, or Princess Bubblegum edition. You’ve not only got the power but it’s never been goddamn cuter. (US$20.99 at mimoco.com/) SPIN-CLEAN Now that vinyl is once
again the favoured format of hard-core music fans, it’s a good time to think about how that newly purchased 180gram copy of Adele’s 25 will be needing some TLC. No matter what precautions are taken, at some point every slab of black wax ends up coated in an unholy mixture of household dust, human dandruff, stray cat hair, and greasy fingerprints. Get your prized albums close to mint condition with Spin-Clean, which looks like something K-tel might have dreamed up in the ’70s but is guaranteed to get records gleaming like they just rolled out of Montreal’s RIP-V pressing plant. The Spin-Clean basin comes with washing fluid concentrate and settings for 12-, 10-, and 7-inch vinyl records. Rollers spin your prized vinyl while brushes gently wipe away impurities. As a bonus, whoever you’re giving the Spin-Clean to can make rent in a couple of hours simply by setting up shop outside Zulu or Red Cat on Record Store Day. ($160 at amazon.ca/)
TERZ AMPLIFIER Normally, you’d have better luck drinking Lemmy Kilmister under the table than convincing the world you’ve got more style than Jack White. Luckily, rock ’n’ roll’s answer to Willy Wonka regularly
THIS RECORD BELONGS TO _____ LP AND TURNTABLE If you desire
nothing so much as to instill in your offspring a love for outmoded media to match your own retrogressive tendencies, Light in the Attic has the solution. Buy your kids a vinyl LP featuring tracks by Shel Silverstein, Van Dyke Parks, Carole King, Harry Nilsson, Vashti Bunyan, Nina Simone, and various other old and/or dead people they’ve never heard of, which comes with a storybook boasting fullcolour illustrations by Jess Rotter. Pair that with a really nift y-looking portable turntable made by Third Man Records. Then watch it sit in a corner collecting dust while your kids listen to Skrillex on your old iPad. For those who are happy residing in the current century, the turntable has a USB port so you can convert the songs to digital files. (US$95 at lightintheattic.net/)
USB MIXTAPE Back in the day, if you wanted to impress someone with the sophistication of your musical tastes, you would make them a mix tape, painstakingly curated so that one song would lead into the next in a way that not only was aesthetically pleasing, but made you look like a fucking genius for thinking of it. SUCK UK’s USB version perfectly captures the look of an old cassette, complete with a cardboard sleeve that you can write your selections on. Well, maybe some of your selections—the thing will hold up to 900 minutes of music. That’s a lot of curating. So much, in fact, that you’ll be too busy to reflect on the fact that you just blew 30 bucks for 1GB of data storage when you could have gone to the Source and picked up 32GB for about the same price. ($30 at amazon.ca/) -
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MUSIC
Clockwise from left: The members of Health clearly know what it means to be in the red; Dr. Lonnie Smith would love to show you his organ; Jazz Cartier just blew his shot at a Nike endorsement.
Health got more melodic for Death Magic Based on singer Jake Duzsik’s volumes of milk. He may complain about the stress of shooting and the the latest Health album was writ- laboriousness of editing videos, but at ten during the death throes of a least Famiglietti dodged the worst job romantic entanglement. This is sug- of all on the set of “New Coke”, that of gested by the refrain of the despair- mopping up the milky chunder. ing “Stonefist”, where Duzsik sings “We helped a little bit, but I really “And we both know, love’s not in need to give a shout-out to the proour hearts,” and by “Dark Enough”, ducer of the video, Daniel Christianwhich poses such devastating ques- sen,” the bassist says. “That poor guy tions as “We cheat/Why not?” and literally cleaned up our puke off the “Does it make a difference if it’s real/ floor while we were shooting.” > JOHN LUCAS As long as I still say I love you?” Reached en route to Toronto, Health bassist-percussionist John Health plays the Biltmore Cabaret on Famiglietti warns against reading too Monday (December 7). much into the words on Death Magic, which is the Los Angeles–based quartet’s third proper album. The lyrics, he notes, were written to fit with the feel of the music, and they give the Even discounting the thermolistener something to connect with. meter-bursting fever he caught They shouldn’t be mistaken for enduring his recent European tour, Jazz tries in Duzsik’s diary. “It’s not like he came home and Cartier has been burning up over the he was like, ‘I’ve got to get this off last several months. Coming off the my chest. This song’s about this,’ ” spring release of his debut album, MaFamiglietti says. “It’s not like that. rauding in Paradise, the Toronto-bred It’s not necessarily personal or about MC has been blessed with critical acclaim, and has converted festival and shit he’s gone through that day.” Famiglietti will allow, however, club crowds worldwide with his allthat extra thought went into the energy stage presence and finessed words this time around, mostly lines. But as he confidently spat on his because they ended up being more fall-unveiled single, “Stick & Move”, audible than ever before. Health “2015 was practice.” Speaking with the Straight the day has been classified as a noise-rock act, and while Death Magic delivers ahead of his last tour of the year, Cara major dose of sheet-metal disco tier notes he’s got big plans for the and electronic squall, the melodic sophomore set he’ll drop in 2016. But elements have been brought to the first, he’s getting ready to connect fore. The end product skews closer with his West Coast fans in person. to Bear in Heaven’s dreamy synth- And damned if he’s not going to look rock than it does to Liars’ confron- crisp while doing it. “I’m about to get my hair done right tational sonic assault, but fans of now; it’s a big day,” he smoothly relays both will find much to love. In addition to his musical dut- over the line from a car headed to a ies, Famiglietti has taken on the salon, a barely audible GPS politely task of directing several of Health’s guiding him towards his destination. videos, including the notably gory “I got my pipe cleaners. About to put one for 2009’s “Die Slow”, which them in my dreads and give them that includes a seething mosh pit of rev- natural curl and bounce.” Bounce is definitely a big thing ellers who end up writhing around in a maelstrom of their own blood for the latest breakout artist from and thrashing limbs. He’s a talented Canada’s hip-hop capital. On the filmmaker with an eye for the gro- self-released Marauding in Paradise, tesque, but he doesn’t necessarily you’ll hear the rapper deliver raw and enjoy the process. “It’s a pain in angry flows on the dark and booming the ass,” the bassist states bluntly. “Switch”, offer Xanax-blasted triplets “It’s never, like, a good way to make on “The Valley”, and focus on staymoney or anything. We do it be- ing straight above the brass-slathered cause we care about the band. I do soul beat of “See You in Hell”. Though like the videos I’ve done, but they the album is expertly executed, it are really stressful. And they’re took about four years for the developreally expensive, for what they are. ing Cartier to find the right formula, That’s also what drives me nuts both personally and sonically. “I think the most important thing about videos.” One recent Famiglietti-directed with Marauding was not just knockvideo, for the Death Magic track ing out the material, but more so find“New Coke”, features slo-mo shots ing myself as a person,” he explains of members of the group puking pro- of his from-the-gut debut. “You can’t fusely. The director reveals that the really rap out of your ass. I mean, you barf was all real, and was produced could, but that wasn’t the angle I was by having the vomiters chug copious going for. So I had to do some living
2 lyrics, most would assume that
Jazz Cartier says he’s left his reckless ways behind
2
on my own so I had the experiences to talk about.” Key story points to the making of Marauding include running wild with friends, young heartbreak, selling drugs, and getting lost in self-medication. Though that mix inspired tweaked-out bomb-squad explosions like “Holy Shit”, the powerful “Feel Something” finds Cartier numbed out and faithless, contemplating life in the hazy abyss. “That was one of those nights that lasts a couple days, you know?” he says of a dark period that inspired the track. “That was what was happening, you don’t feel like yourself when you’re partying for days on end. It’s wintertime, you wake up and it’s 3 p.m. and it’s already dark outside, and you barely see sunlight for a week.” As he was getting the album together, however, Cartier’s perspective changed. He found his voice, literally, and a sense of purpose that’s carried him towards a burgeoning music career. “I’m not as reckless as I was before,” he notes proudly. Cartier admits that there’s still chaos in his life, but it’s more inspired by his drive to perform, to climb up to the top of the hip-hop ladder. With more music on the way, he’s getting there one track at a time. “All in all, this industry is pretty fucked, but as long as good music connects, you’re going to keep winning,” an excited Cartier theorizes as the conversation closes. Like he said, 2015 was just a warm-up.
Music gives organ legend Smith an electric feeling Jazz organ legend Dr. Lonnie
2 Smith believes in angels—be-
cause a long time ago he met one in the flesh, and that’s why he’s who he is today. The encounter took place sometime in the early 1960s, when Smith was singing with his brothers in their family band and dreaming of the day when he might join in on the instrumental fun at the helm of his own Hammond B-3. “I wanted to play, because they were enjoying themselves,” the Lackawanna, New York–born Smith recalls, on the line from New Orleans. “So I used to go to the music store and sit, every day until closing time, just looking at the organs. And then one day the owner—this guy Art Kubera, who I call my angel—he said ‘Why do you come in every day and just sit?’ And I told him why. “Then one day I went into the music store and he closed it,” Smith continues. “He took me back to his house, and there was a brand-new Hammond organ, and that was it. That was it! My eyes lit up, and he said ‘If you can get this out of here, it’s yours.’ And they were thousands of dollars then, but he let me take it. We put it in a pickup truck and took it home in the snow, in a wide-open truck. And I was in love with the instrument already. I didn’t know how to play it, but I was in love with it.” Smith was a fast learner. By the > GREGORY ADAMS time he was 24 he was in a band with emerging guitar superstar Jazz Cartier plays Fortune Sound George Benson, although Smith Club on Saturday (December 5). never followed his friend into the
pop arena. Instead, he developed a reputation as the most exciting of his mentor Jimmy Smith’s disciples and as a lifelong evangelist for his chosen instrument. “Sometimes other keyboard players or piano players, they’ll say ‘I’ve never touched that,’ ” Smith says. “And I’ll say ‘C’mere.’ I’ll have them sit next to me, and I’ll play it, and I’ll say ‘Now, do you feel that?’ You can actually feel this, like, electricity going through my body. It’s like fire—or it feels like that to me, anyway. It’s like fire, and it’s part of my body. Playing synthesizers with an organ patch is a whole different thing.” Local jazz impresario Cory Weeds, who’s responsible for pairing Smith with the Jill Townsend Big Band for a pair of Coastal Jazz and Blues Society concerts this weekend, agrees that Smith is an incandescent performer. “He doesn’t get enough credit for his improvisational prowess,” the saxophonist and Cellar Live label owner notes. “He’s always been thought of as a groover, rather than someone like Jimmy Smith, who was very fleet-fingered. But I’d put him right up there. He can do everything, and he can generate excitement like not a lot of organ players can. “I can’t wait,” adds Weeds. “It’s going to be like combining two big bands. The only difference is that the first big band only has one person in it!” > ALEXANDER VARTY
D r. L o n n i e S m i t h j o i n s t h e J i l l Townsend Big Band at the Orpheum A n n ex o n Fr i d a y a n d S a t u rd a y (December 4 and 5).
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 61
MUSIC
DJ Christa Belleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bob fills the dance floor
C
hrista Belle is much more ret, as well as various dingy warehouse than a pretty head of hair. one-offs around town. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re encourBut seriously, get a load of aged to do so because if a machine, a that â&#x20AC;&#x2122;do. It puts the coiffure Terminator, can learn the value of a of every other DJ in this city to shame good party, maybe you can too. and is so perfect it makes you think that the young woman also known BEST GIG EVER My 21st birthday as Christa Walley is actually a form at the original Vancouver Art & Leisure warehouse at of AI. There could 8th and Quebec be some truth to So Many DJs last December. that totally aweI played a heavy some rumour we Michael Mann funk and disco just started, as she has suspiciously encyclopedic musical setâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Chaka Khan, Prince, Stevie knowledge and can consume an in- Wonder, the works. It was the first human amount of Fernet. Behind the time a set really clicked for me. Like decks, Walley will fool even the best every track and transition had a perblade runner with her radiant party fect home in the mix. That warehouse presence and spirited sets of indie is now home to a dog-taxi service. classics, pop hits, underground dance music, and everything in between. TOP TRACK RIGHT NOW â&#x20AC;&#x153;Never Catch her at LOVE!, which happens Too Muchâ&#x20AC;? by Luther Vandross. every Saturday night at the Fox Caba- Never fails to put a smile on my face
Yes, Christa Belle has great hair, and check out those eyebrows!
and always gets people moving in the smoothest way. A SONG THAT CLEARED THE DANCE FLOOR â&#x20AC;&#x153;Firestarterâ&#x20AC;? by
the Prodigy. Makes me think people
really need to catch up, you know? strong and feminine look. I would I stand by my selection. like to think that my work reflects that. On Halloween this year a group FAVOURITE VANCOUVER PRO- of my closest friends showed up DUCER Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gotta be my friend dressed in Christa Belle costumesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; David Pimentel, aka Pomo. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s they all wore black bob wigs. As if done incredibly well for himself, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m ever going to change my style especially this past yearâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;touring after something like that! with Disclosure, having his debut album pressed to vinyl, and releas- ODDEST REQUEST YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;VE EVER ing silky-smooth remixes through- RECEIVED Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s odd to me when out. To this day he remains humble someone asks to hear a deep cut and is always down to talk shop. that I do in fact have and love. Most I play his remix of Richard Jon people who make requests think Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stay With Me Tonightâ&#x20AC;? DJs have this magical vault of every song that has ever been created. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost every Saturday at the Fox. amazing to me that these people have WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S UP WITH YOUR HAIR? their shirts on the right way around. I joke with my DJ and business part- So when someone comes up to me ner, Trevor Risk, that in a future ac- at LOVE! and asks for a cool artist ceptance speech I will thank him, my like Todd Terje or the Juan Maclean, family, and my bangs for the success I find it odd and congratulate them Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve experienced. The bob is a very by playing it. -
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62 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 / 2015
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LOGIC Maryland rapper tours in support of sophomore album The Incredible True Story. Feb 15, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, Vogue Theatre (918 Granville). Tix on sale Dec 4, 10 am, $30 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/.
music/ timeout CONCERTS < CLUBS & VENUES < OUT OF TOWN <
CONCERTS 2JUST ANNOUNCED DAN DEACON American electronica composer-musician tours in support of latest release Glass Riffer. Dec 15, doors 8 pm, show 9:30 pm, Cobalt (917 Main). Tix $15 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/.
CRADLE OF FILTH British metal band tours in support of latest release Hammer of the Witches, with guests Butcher Babies and Ne Obliviscaris. Feb 24, 8 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $32.50, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/. SILVERSTEIN Canadian post-hardcore band tours in support of new release I Am Alive In Everything I Touch, with guests Being As an Ocean, Emarosa, Youth Decay, and Rarity. Mar 8, doors 6:30 pm, show 6:45 pm, The Imperial (319 Main). Tix $20 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/. REVEREND HORTON HEAT Texas psychobilly trio, with guests Unknown Hinson, Legendary Shack Shakers, and Lincoln Durham. Mar 10, 8 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $26.50, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/. WE ARE THE CITY Vancouver prog-rock band tours in support of latest release Above Club. Mar 11, 8 pm, The Imperial (319 Main). Tix $20 (plus service charges and fees), info www.mrgconcerts.com/.
MAGFEST: GAME OVER VANCOUVER A music and gaming festival features performances by Bryface, the Runaway Four, and missingNo. Dec 17, 8 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $15, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/.
THORNLEY Canadian post-rock vocalistguitarist tours in support of first solo album Secrets. Mar 12, doors 7 pm, show 7:45 pm, Venue (881 Granville). Tix on sale Dec 4, 10 am, $25 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/.
LIL DEBBIE California rapper, with guests Jaclyn Gee and Baby G. Dec 18, 8-10:30 pm, Fortune Sound Club (147 E. Pender). Info www.fortunesoundclub.com/.
ULI JON ROTH'S ULTIMATE GUITAR EXPERIENCE Former guitarist for the Scorpions headlines a six-string extravaganza that also features performances by Jennifer Batten and Andy Timmons. Mar 19, doors 6 pm, Venue (881 Granville). Tix $30 (plus service charge) at www.ticketweb.ca/.
THE SUMNER BROTHERS 10TH ANNUAL XMAS PARTY EXTRAVAGANZA Local alt-country band hosts a Christmas concert with Dylan Rysstad, Johnny 99, Twin Bandit, Kathleen Nisbet, Colebrook Shepherds, Gabriel Mintz, Sarah Jane Scouten, A.P. Dugas, Mike Giacolino, Emile & Kesia, Real Ponchos, Etienne Tremblay, Elliot C. Way, and Jayne Trimble. Dec 19, 8 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $9.50, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/. ROCK TILL YOU DROP Local rock bands Uncle Sid, Chilled Clarity, STRIP, and the Mike Machado Trio help raise money for the Vancouver Food Bank. Dec 20, 7 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $15, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/. FORTUNE SOUND NYE 2016 New Year's Eve party features dance music by Physik, Adlib, Sailor Gerry, and Seko. Dec 31, 9 pm–4 am, Fortune Sound Club (147 E. Pender). Info www.fortunesoundclub.com/. ILLUMINATE NYE Dom Perignon hosts a New Year's Eve party with music by Floetic and Stimulant J. Dec 31, 10 pm, M.I.A. (350 Water St.). Tix $30, info www. areyoumia.com/. CHROME SPARKS Brooklyn-based experimental-dance musician tours in support of latest EP Parallelism. Jan 20, Fortune Sound Club (147 E. Pender). Info www.fortunesoundclub.com/. WET Brooklyn-based R&B trio tours in support of upcoming album Don't You. Feb 10, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince Edward). Tix on sale Dec 4, 10 am, $13.50 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/. THE DREADNOUGHTS Vancouver polkapunk band performs with the Skimmity Hitchers, ATD, the Generators, Uptown Riot, and Obscene Being. Feb 13, 7:30 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $17, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/.
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POLICA Minneapolis experimental-pop band tours in support of upcoming release United Crushers, with guests Clara-Nova. Mar 30, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, The Imperial (319 Main). Tix $20 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/. JOANNA NEWSOM American indie-folk singer-songwriter and harpist tours in support of latest release Divers. Mar 30, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, Vogue Theatre (918 Granville). Tix on sale Dec 4, 10 am, $45 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Highlife Records, and www.ticketfly.com/. SPIRIT OF THE WEST Canadian folk-rock group ("Home for a Rest") performs on its Final Shows tour. Apr 15-16, doors 7 pm, show 8:30 pm, Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville). Tix on sale Dec 4, 10 am, $45 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/.
2THIS WEEK BELL WITCH Seattle doom-metal band tours in support of latest release Four Phantoms, with guest Wrekmeister Harmonies. Dec 3, doors 8 pm, show 9:30 pm, Cobalt (917 Main). Tix $10 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/. EWB PRESENTS: JAM FOR A CAUSE Fundraiser features live music by the Poolsharks, Peach Pit, and Class Act.
DEC 9 RAINBOW ROAD
Proceeds go to VOTO Mobile, a Ghanabased tech startup and social enterprise. Dec 3, 7:30 pm, Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince Edward). Tix $12 (plus service charges and fees), info www.votomobile.org/.
THE ACOUSTIC GUITAR PROJECT The Rogue Folk Club presents acoustic-guitar music by Shari Ulrich, Buckman Coe, Lydia Hol, Itamar Erez, and Wes Mackey. Dec 3, 8 pm, St. James Hall (3214 W. 10th). Tix $24/20, info www.roguefolk.bc.ca/concerts/ev15121120/.
DR. LONNIE SMITH AND THE JILL TOWNSEND BAND Coastal Jazz presents American jazz organist coheadlining with local 17-piece jazz ensemble. Dec 4-5, 8 pm, Orpheum Annex (823 Seymour). Tix $51 (plus service charge) at www.coastal jazz.ticketfly.com/, info www.coastaljazz.ca/. STAR CAPTAINS Vancouver-based soul band. Dec 4, 9:30 pm, Guilt & Co. (1 Alexander). Info www.starcaptains.com/.
SHE STOLE MY BEER Legendary Vancouver roots-rock band from the BUSINESS CLASS CHRISTMAS Music '90s, with guest Piper. Dec 5, doors 8 pm, by local indie acts Black River Killers, Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince Edward). Magik Spells, the Mouths, Plans, Disguises. Tix $20, info biltmorecabaret.com/events/ Dec 3, 8 pm, Media Club (695 Cambie). she-stole-my-beer/. Tix $10, info www.facebook.com/ JAZZ CARTIER Toronto rapper tours in supevents/441145176090626/. port of mixtape Marauding in Paradise, with LEGS Vancouver-based experimental-folk guests Brevner and G4SHI. Dec 5, doors band, with guests Savvie, Youngblood, 6:30 pm, show 7:30 pm, Fortune Sound Club and DJ Christa Belle. Dec 3, 8 pm, (147 E. Pender). Tix $20 (plus service charRickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $8, ges and fees) at www.livenation.com/. info www.rickshawtheatre.com/. GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS New York City XXYYXX Electronic musician and proheavy-metal band with guests OmnisighT ducer from Orlando, Florida, with guests and Avoid the Void. Dec 5, 7-10:30 pm, Cam Jennings, Cherchez, and Mikey J. Venue (881 Granville). Tix $20/15, info Blige. Dec 3, 10 pm, M.I.A. (350 Water St.). www.venuelive.ca/. Tix $25, info www.areyoumia.com/. MIKE KROL California-based garageMYSTERY SKULLS American indierock singer-songwriter tours in support of pop/electronica act tours in support of latest release Turkey, with guest Rupert upcoming debut album Forever, with Angeleyes. Dec 5, 8 pm, Media Club (695 guests Boissinova. Dec 4, doors 7 pm, Cambie). Tix $10 (plus service charges show 8 pm, Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince and fees) at www.ticketfly.com/, info Edward). Tix $12 (plus service charges www.mrgconcerts.com/. and fees) at www.livenation.com/. TRUNCATE Los Angeles DJ performs ABBAMANIA & NIGHT FEVER Tributes techno music, with guests Derivatives, to ABBA and the Bee Gees. Dec 4, doors Robin Banks, and Phillip. Dec 5, doors 8 7 pm, show 8 pm, Hard Rock Casino pm, show 9 pm, VIVO Media Arts (2625 Vancouver (2080 United Blvd., Coquitlam). Kaslo). Tix $20/15, info www.facebook. Tix $24.50 (plus service charges and fees) com/events/1500104703644421/. at www.ticketmaster.ca/, info www.hard THE MINT RECORDS RIDICULOUSLY rockcasinovancouver.com/. EARLY XMAS PARTY Annual holiday ANDREW ALLEN—ALL HEARTS COME party features music by Faith Healer, HOME Holiday show features Andrew Renny Wilson, Monomyth, Fake Tears, Allen songs "I Want You", "Loving You Energy Slime, Supermoon, and Uptights. Tonight", and "I Wanna Be Your Christmas". Dec 5, 8:30 pm, Astoria Pub (769 E. Dec 4, 6:30 pm, St. James Hall (3214 W. 10th). Hastings). Tix $12, info www.facebook. Tix $20, info www.andrewallenlive.com/. com/events/1100914933260591/. CATCHING UP WITH TOMORROW Benefit concert features music by Gerry Hannah and the New Questioning Coyote Brigade, the Salvos, the Judys, A.K.A., and I, Braineater. Proceeds go to the Lenore Herb Archive at VIVO. Dec 4, 7 pm, VIVO Media Arts (2625 Kaslo). Tix $20/15, info www.vivomediaarts.com/.
DADA PLAN Vancouver art-rock ensemble, with guests Freak Heat Waves and Gal Gracen. Dec 5, 9 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $8, info www. rickshawtheatre.com/.
STEPHEN KING North Vancouver acoustic guitarist. Dec 4, 7-9:15 pm, Ten Ten Tapas (1010 Beach Ave). Free admission, info www.tententapas.com/. JOJO MASON Vancouver countrysoul artist performs with guests Lanie McAuley and Dani Elle. Dec 4, 7-10:30 pm, Venue (881 Granville). Tix $16/13, info www.venuelive.ca/. 1204@919 Music by local rock bands Alpha Brodega, Hazel Blackburn, Opposite Shore, and Sound Reinforcement. Dec 4, 7:30 pm, Studio Records. Tix $12/10, info www.face book.com/events/1621512624789965/. THE MODELOS & FRIENDS Benefit for the Vancouver Food Bank features music by the Modelos, Hunting, Just A Season, Real Ponchos, D Trevlon, Kelly Haigh & the Murderbirds, Mark Peterson, Sun Belt, Boomchix, and Eddy D & the Sexbombs. Proceeds go to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. Dec 4, 8 pm, Fairview Pub (898 W. Broadway). Tix $10 at the door, info www.the-modelos.com/. AUTHORITY ZERO Arizona punk-ska rockers, with guests Versus the World, A Total Disappointment, and Eken Is Dead. Dec 4, 8 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $18.50, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/.
THE BREAKTHROUGH COUNTRY MUSIC PROJECT Music by country acts Shylo Sharity, Jennifer Zeke, Alex Harrison, Backstage Whiskey, and Peter James Band. Dec 6, 7 pm, The Roxy (932 Granville). Tix $7, info www.facebook. com/events/429066340631037/. HEALTH Los Angeles noise-rock band tours in support of latest release Death Magic. Dec 7, doors 8 pm, show 9:30 pm, Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince Edward). Tix $15 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/. HALF MOON RUN Montreal-based indiefolk rockers perform with guests Folly & the Hunter. Dec 8, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, The Imperial (319 Main). Tix $20 (plus service charges and fees). SOLD OUT. SARAH JANE SCOUTEN & THE HONKY TONK WINGMEN The Rogue Folk Club presents Bowen Island country artist and her band. Dec 8, 8 pm, St. James Hall (3214 W. 10th). Tix $20/16, info www.rogue folk.bc.ca/concerts/ev15121720/. NASHVILLE PUSSY Rowdy guitar-rock band from Atlanta, Georgia, performs with In the Whale. Dec 8, 8 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $20, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/. STRENGTH OF MATERIALS Vancouver avant-rock string quartet, with guest
guitarist Darcy Hancock. Dec 8, 9 pm, China Cloud (524 Main). Tix $10.
K-OS Canadian alt-rap singer-songwriter tours in support of latest album Can't Fly Without Gravity. Dec 9, doors 8 pm, show 9:15 pm, Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville). Tix $27.50 (plus service charges and fees) at www.commodore ballroom.com/. MUSHROOMHEAD Cleveland heavymetal band, with guests Selectric, Unsaid Fate, Saints of Death. Dec 9, 8 pm, Venue (881 Granville). Tix $24, info www.venue live.ca/.
2UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS CONTACT WINTER MUSIC FESTIVAL Electronica festival features music by Above & Beyond, Hardwell, Steve Angello, DJ Snake, Andrew Rayel, Oliver Heldens, Klingande, Tchami, 3LAU, Bakermat, Jauz, Mercer, Jai Wolf, Vanic, Wiwek, Snails, Slander, and Nghtmre. Dec 26-27, 5 pm, B.C. Place Stadium (777 Pacific). Tix $250/175/150 (plus service charges and fees) at www.contact-festival.com/. MONSTER TRUCK As part of the Straight Series, Canadian rock band tours in support of upcoming album Sittin' Heavy, with guests the Temperance Movement. Feb 25, doors 8 pm, show 9:30 pm, Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville). Tix $29.50 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/.
CLUBS & VENUES ALEXANDER GASTOWN 91 Powell, 778379-0407. Gastown club, lounge, and live music venue featuring weekly club nights and concerts. 2MAJID JORDAN Dec 10 ASTORIA PUB 769 E. Hastings, 604-2543636. Dudette Sun, Live Fast! Mon, Their Satanic Majesties Request DJs Tue; local and touring bands and DJs Thu-Sat. 2THE MINT RECORDS RIDICULOUSLY EARLY XMAS PARTY Dec 5 AT THE WALDORF 1489 E. Hastings, 604253-7141. Three separate rooms, including Tiki Room, Tabu, and the Hideaway. Cherryoke Wed, Tank Gyal & guests Thu; live music & dance party Fri; Thomas Maxey & Kalibo Sat. Tiki Bar open 6 pm Wed-Sat. BACKSTAGE LOUNGE Arts Club Theatre, 1585 Johnston, Granville Island, 604-6871354. Vancouver's only live-music venue on the water, with music nightly. Live band karaoke hosted by Sami Ghawi and Reuben Avery Tue at 9:30 pm. BELMONT BAR 1006 Granville, 604-6054340. Fresh and local fare, craft beer and wine on tap, and live entertainment nightly. Open daily at 5 pm. 2BYZANTIUM: AN ANNIVERSARY AFFAIR Dec 3 BILTMORE CABARET 2755 Prince Edward, 604-676-0541. 2EWB PRESENTS: JAM FOR A CAUSE Dec 3 2MYSTERY SKULLS Dec 4 2SHE STOLE MY BEER Dec 5 2KITTY NIGHTS BURLESQUE: CANDYLAND Dec 6 2HEALTH Dec 7 2KIASMOS Dec 12 2NITE*MOVES WITH SEXY SAX MAN Dec 12 2JPNSGRLS Dec 19 2DEVOTCHKA Jan 8 2JD MCPHERSON Jan 11 2TRIBAL SEEDS Jan 22 2THE BRIGHT LIGHT SOCIAL HOUR Jan 30 2BAIO Feb 5 2WET Feb 10 2AOIFE O'DONOVAN Mar 5 2RADIATION CITY & DEEP SEA DIVER Mar 17 2GREG DULLI Mar 22 BIMINI PUBLIC HOUSE 2010 W. 4th, 604733-7116. Twenty-four taps of rotating and interesting craft beers. Pub trivia Mon; beer club Tue; Wing Wed; dance party Fri-Sat; happy hour 3-6 pm.
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The ROGUE Best Roots Music
Vancouver’s Home of The V
in the World
All shows at St. James Hall 3214 W. 10th Ave.
604.736.3022 • www.roguefolk.bc.ca
COMING UP
3 TOY ZEBRA 4 SHAH DJ’S 8 6 9 10 THE PHONIX THURSDAY $2.75 DRAFT, $5.50 PALM BAYS
FRIDAY $5.50 LONG ISLAND ICED TEA
ROCK COVERS
ROCK COVERS
SUNDAY
TUESDAY $2.75 DRAFT, $5.50 PALM BAYS, $4.25 SHOTS
ATOMIC SWING FEATURING SWING AGGREGATION AND DJ JOSE SWING LESSONS AND DANCING
WEDNESDAY $4.50 HIGHBALLS
Thurs Dec 3
THE ACOUSTIC GUITAR PROJECT
Tues Dec 8
SARAH JANE SCOUTEN
Fri Dec 11
T. NILE, DANA SIPOS, FAMILIAR WILD • 8pm
Featuring: Shari Ulrich, Buckman Coe, Lydia Hol, Wes Mackey, Itamar Erez • 8pm Old time songs with a modern twist • 8pm
ANGEL MO & FRIENDS
THURSDAY $2.75 DRAFT, $5.50 PALM BAYS
RAINBOW ROAD WITH YEAR OF THE WOLF WITH TIMMY P
R&B/SOUL COVER
FOOD. DRINK. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT.
SHARI ULRICH
SARAH JANE SCOUTEN
T. NILE
*** VISIT US ONLINE FOR UP TO THE MINUTE LISTINGS, DRINK SPECIALS AND MORE www.thebackstagelounge.com ***
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 63
JANE SCOUTEN & THE HONKY TONK WINGMEN Dec 8 2DANA SIPOS, FAMILIAR WILD, AND T. NILE Dec 11 2VAN DJANGO BELLS Dec 18
Music time out
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CINEMA PUBLIC HOUSE 901 Granville, 604-694-0202.Pub featuring craft beer and cocktails, pub food, late-night menu, and weekend brunch. DJs all night Wed-Sun. Happy hour 3-6 pm.
VENUE 881 Granville, 604-646-0064. Tix for all events at www.venuelive.ca/ and www.bplive.ca/. 2JOJO MASON Dec 4 2GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS Dec 5 2MUSHROOMHEAD Dec 9 2THE ENGLISH BEAT Dec 11 2GRAVEYARD Dec 12 2ONE BAD SON Dec 15 2NEW YEARS EVE: UNDER THE STARS Dec 31 2VENOM INC. Jan 16 2KILLING JOKE Feb 2 2DR. DOG Feb 6 2ST. LUCIA Mar 1 2THORNLEY Mar 12 2ULI JON ROTH'S ULTIMATE GUITAR EXPERIENCE Mar 19 2PRONG May 29
COBALT 917 Main, 778-918-3671. 2BELL WITCH Dec 3 2L.A. WITCH Dec 10 2TACOCAT AND SALLIE FORD Dec 12 2THE GARDEN Dec 13 2DAN DEACON Dec 15 2PITY SEX Dec 22 2MAJICAL CLOUDZ Jan 22 2CAR SEAT HEADREST Jan 24 2SAINTSENECA Jan 31 2ELEANOR FRIEDBERGER Mar 4 2ANDERSON EAST Mar 5 2ALEX G AND PORCHES Mar 26 COMMODORE BALLROOM 868 Granville, 604-739-4550. Tix at www.commodore ballroom.com/. 2K-OS Dec 9 230TH ANNUAL BLUES FOR CHRISTMAS Dec 20 2FUNK THE HALLS Dec 22 2NERO ANCIENT LIGHTS CD CELEBRATION Dec 6 Dec 29 2ERIC PRYDZ Jan 2 2THE DEVIL 2CORY WEEDS TRIBUTE TO THE TENORS MAKES THREE Jan 19 2NATHANIEL Dec 10 2PJ PERRY QUARTET Dec 12 RATELIFF AND THE NIGHT SWEATS Jan 21 2CHASE RICE Jan 24 2 CORB LUND Jan FUNKY WINKER BEANS 37 W. Hastings, 29 2ARKELLS Feb 1 2THE MUSICAL BOX: 604-764-7865. 2DENY YOUR MAKER, SELLING ENGLAND BY THE POUND Feb W.D.C., UTILITY PROVIDER Dec 4 2THIRD 17 2THE SHEEPDOGS Feb 18 2MONSTER ANNUAL MORGAN MUSICFEST Dec 5 TRUCK Feb 25 2CLASSIFIED Feb 27 2DIMEBAG DARRELL TRIBUTE: VANTERA, 2FRANK TURNER AND THE SLEEPING APPRENTICE, MERIDIUS Dec 5 2LA SOULS Mar 3 2DELHI 2 DUBLIN Mar 5 CHINGA, SMASH ALLEY, WETT STILETTOS, 2REBELUTION Mar 6 2ANJUNABEATS MAKING STRANGERS Dec 11 2KILLING Mar 10 2DISTURBED Mar 11 2THE MACHINE (JUDAS PRIEST TRIBUTE), WAILERS Mar 12 2MOTOWN MELTDOWN BLACKOUT (SCORPIONS TRIBUTE) Dec 12 Mar 19 2AFRO-CUBAN ALL STARS Mar HARD ROCK CASINO VANCOUVER 20 2WOLFMOTHER Apr 1 2THE DECIBEL 2080 United Blvd., Coquitlam, 604-523MAGAZINE TOUR 2016 Apr 2 2CIARA Apr 6888. 2ABBAMANIA & NIGHT FEVER Dec 5 2GARY CLARK JR. Apr 12 2SPIRIT OF 4 2TROOPER Dec 31 2STEVEN WRIGHT THE WEST Apr 15 2ST. GERMAIN Apr 18 Jan 9 2LEWIS BLACK Feb 28 2GEORGE DOOLIN'S IRISH PUB 654 Nelson, 604THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS Apr 21 605-4343. Live music Sun-Thu, with acoustic 2TRACY MORGAN May 13 soloist or duo Sun-Wed and live band THE IMPERIAL 319 Main, Thu DJ Fri-Sat. 604-868-0494.2FAMILY OF THE YEAR: FORTUNE SOUND CLUB 147 E. Pender, CANCELLED Dec 6 2HALF MOON RUN 604-569-1758. 2THE PANCAKES & BOOZE Dec 8 2VANESSA CARLTON Jan 14 ART SHOW Dec 3 2SKEPTA Dec 4 2SONNY LANDRETH Jan 17 2SHIGETO 2JAZZ CARTIER Dec 5 2EKALI AT HAPPY Jan 22 2THE KNOCKS Feb 3 2SUPER ENDING FRIDAYS Dec 11 2CHINATOWN FURRY ANIMALS Feb 4 2YOUNG MALL HOLIDAY SALE Dec 13 2FORTUNE GALAXY Feb 10 2LAKE STREET DIVE SOUND 6 YEAR ANNIVERSARY Dec 17 Mar 1 2SILVERSTEIN Mar 8 2JUNIOR 2LIL DEBBIE Dec 18 2DJ MUSTARD Dec BOYS Mar 10 2 WE ARE THE CITY Mar 11 19 2BEAT CONNECTION Dec 19 2HOT CHIP (DJ SET) Dec 29 2CHROME SPARKS 2POLICA Mar 30 Jan 20 2MIKE STUD Mar 3 IVANHOE PUB 1038 Main, 604-608-1444. Pub with live bands on weekends and FOX CABARET 2321 Main. 2FLEE Nov open jam night Sun from 4 to 8 pm. Open 26 2LET'S NOT BEAT EACH OTHER at 9 am with breakfast and daily food TO DEATH Jan 21 2EL TOPO Jan 22 specials. Pool tourney Thu. No cover. 2HAROLD BUDD Jan 23 2ROOMFUL OF 2WOODY JAMES Dec 4 2SONS OF THE TEETH Jan 25 2FOND OF TIGERS Jan 28 HOE Dec 6 FRANKIE'S 765 Beatty, 778-727-0337. LAMPLIGHTER PUBLIC HOUSE 92 2BERNIE ARAI'S TO BE ORNETTE TO BE Dec 3 2ANAGRAM Dec 4 2PAUL PIGAT Water, 604-687-4424. Pub trivia with Nice DAILY SPECIAL Dec 5 2PAUL KEELING Guys Inc. Tue; bourbon and bingo Wed;
M.I.A. 350 Water St., 604-408-4321. Gastown's newest intimate nightclub and special-event space. 2XXYYXX Dec 3 2GREEN VELVET Dec 12 2EMOTIONS OPEN MIC EXPERIENCE NYE Dec 31
BROTHERS 10TH ANNUAL XMAS PARTY EXTRAVAGANZA Dec 19 2ROCK TILL YOU DROP Dec 20 2YOB Dec 31 2BAPTISTS, POWER TRIP Jan 16 2ZIMMERS HOLE Jan 23 2UNKNOWN MORTAL ORCHESTRA, LOWER DENS Jan 28 2ENFORCER, WARBRINGER Jan 30 2THE DREADNOUGHTS Feb 13 2PARQUET COURTS Feb 20 2CRADLE OF FILTH Feb 24 2REVEREND HORTON HEAT Mar 10 2LUCA TURILLI'S RHASPODY, PRIMAL FEAR May 9 2KING GIZZARD AND THE LIZARD WIZARD May 28
MEDIA CLUB 695 Cambie, 604-608-2871. Live music most nights. 2BUSINESS CLASS CHRISTMAS Dec 3 2MIKE KROL Dec 5 2REPTAR Dec 11 2HUNNY Dec 11 2THE EAGLE ROCK GOSPEL SINGERS Jan 30 2HEY MARSEILLES Mar 4
RIVER ROCK SHOW THEATRE River 8811 River Rd., Richmond, 604-247-8900. Tix for all shows at www.ticketmaster.ca/. 2CHRISTMAS WITH THE RAT PACK Dec 19 2BURTON CUMMINGS Dec 30 2ANDREPHILIPPE GAGNON Dec 31
ORPHEUM THEATRE 601 Smithe, 604665-3050. 2VANCE JOY Jan 12 2BLUE RODEO Jan 26 2HEART Mar 8 2LEON BRIDGES Mar 15
ROGERS ARENA 800 Griffiths Way, 604899-7400. 2THE WEEKND Dec 2 2BLACK SABBATH Feb 3 2JUSTIN BIEBER Mar 11 2ELLIE GOULDING Apr 1 2IRON MAIDEN Apr 10 2RIHANNA Apr 23 2THE WHO May 13 2SELENA GOMEZ May 14 2HEDLEY May 20 2CITY AND COLOUR Jun 3 2DIXIE CHICKS Jul 7 2DEMI LOVATO AND NICK JONAS Aug 24
Rocksteady with DJs Arems, Hoppa & Rexx Thu; FKYA DJs Fri; DJ Antonia & Friends Sat.
LIBRARY SQUARE PUBLIC HOUSE 300 W. Georgia, 604-633-9644. Free pinball Wed, Show Me Love '90s party Fri; Saturday Night Special dance party Sat. Canucks and Whitecaps pregame.
QUEEN ELIZABETH THEATRE 650 Hamilton, 604-665-3050. 2PUSCIFER Dec 2 2MILEY CYRUS & HER DEAD PETZ Dec 14 2JOHNNY REID Feb 1 2TWENTY ONE PILOTS Apr 10 REPUBLIC 958 Granville, 604-669-3214. House, hip-hop, EDM, chart, and reggae. Open seven days a week from 10 pm to 3 am. 214TH ANNUAL DONNELLY FUND TOY DRIVE Dec 8 RICKSHAW THEATRE 254 E. Hastings, 604-681-8915. 2LEGS Dec 3 2AUTHORITY ZERO Dec 4 2DADA PLAN Dec 5 2NASHVILLE PUSSY Dec 8 2DIECEMBERFEST 7 Dec 11 2MAGFEST: GAME OVER VANCOUVER Dec 17 2KEITHMAS VI: A FOOD BANK FUNDRAGER Dec 18 2THE SUMNER
VOGUE THEATRE 918 Granville, 604569-1144. Tix at www.voguetheatre.com/. 2KAMELOT Dec 2 2IF I WERE YOU Dec 6 2TWENTY ONE PILOTS Dec 9 2FRAZEY FORD Dec 10 2DRAGONETTE AND YOUNG EMPIRES Dec 11 2NICK LOWE'S QUALITY HOLIDAY REVUE Dec 19 2#SINGITFWDFINALE Jan 14 2TY SEGALL AND THE MUGGERS Jan 22 2THE WOOD BROTHERS Jan 31 2TROYE SIVAN Feb 3 2BOOKER T JONES Feb 13 2LOGIC Feb 15 2MATT ANDERSEN Feb 18 2JEREMY HOTZ Feb 26 2VINCE STAPLES Mar 1 2DAUGHTER Mar 18 2RACHEL PLATTEN Mar 28 2ALESSIA CARA Mar 29 2JOANNA NEWSOM Mar 30 WISE HALL 1882 Adanac, 604-2545858.Live music by local artists and international touring acts. 2TABOO REVUE HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR Dec 5 2IMPROMPTU ROCK CHOIR: EAST VANCOUVER Dec 8 2CLANCYS ANGELS Dec 11 2IMPROMPTU ROCK CHOIR: EAST VANCOUVER PARTY NIGHT Dec 15 2SSRIS Dec 18
OUT OF TOWN 2THIS WEEK DECK THE HALL BALL 2015 Featuring performances by Death Cab for Cutie, Cage the Elephant, Twenty One Pilots, Walk the Moon, Alabama Shakes, Nathaniel Rateliff, and X Ambassadors. Dec 8, 3 pm, Key Arena (305 Harrison St., Seattle, WA). Tix US$95/65/60/50/40 (plus service charges and fees) at www.ticketmaster.ca/.
THE ROXY 932 Granville, 604-331-7999.2ILLUMINOSITY W/ THE FLU Dec 2 2NO ISLAND W/ FICKLE YOUTH Dec 3 2BONE STATE REBELLION W/ BEAUTIFUL DISASTER Dec 4 2MAUSIKI W/ TRAVIS JAMES BAND Dec 5 2THE BREAKTHROUGH COUNTRY MUSIC PROJECT Dec 6 2TODDCAST PODCAST CHEAP THRILLS VOLUME 2 WITH DOMINIQUE FRICOT Dec 10
TIME OUT MUSIC LISTINGS are a public service provided free of charge, based on available space and editorial discretion. We can't guarantee inclusion, and we give priority to events taking place within one week of publication. Submit listings online using the event-submission form at straight.com/AddEvent. Events that don't make it into the paper due to space constraints will appear on the website.
ST. JAMES HALL 3214 W. 10th, 604736-3022. 2THE ACOUSTIC GUITAR PROJECT Dec 3 2ANDREW ALLEN - ALL HEARTS COME HOME Dec 4 2SARAH
604.730.7060
REAL ESTATE
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HERE TO SERVE YOU BETTER. 604.839.7347 ian@iantangrealestate 3195 Oak St., Van. B.C. V6H 2L2 iantangrealestate.com FOR SALE
MOUNTAIN AND WATER VIEWS 4009 EDINBURGH STREET I $1,349,000 2 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom, 2,007 Sq. Ft. Updated kitchen and bathroom on main floor, new roof and inlaid hardwood floors Full height walk-out basement. 50 x 122 ft. lot across from a park and featuring both water and mountain views Detached garage and large, private, backyard
OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, Dec 5th, 2 - 4pm OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, Dec 6th, 2 - 4pm 64 THE THE GEORGIA GEORGIA STRAIGHT STRAIGHT DECEMBER DECEMBER33––10 10/ /2015 2015 64
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Sutton West Coast Realty I 301-1508 W Broadway
HOUSING
Transit attracts projects
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“If we have that many renters in the area, he push for more high-rises near JoyceCollingwood Station in East Vancou- that means that they should have a say in development because their rents would increase,” ver is causing a stir. Some members of the Renfrew- dela Cruz Yip told the Straight. She added that current businesses, espeCollingwood community are worried about the city’s review of the lands around the transit cially retailers, should also be considered when hub. City planners are proposing to allow new plans are finally drawn by the city. towers of 17 to 35 storeys in one of the most STEPS ARE BEING taken to deliver a new compact neighbourhoods in Vancouver. Chanel Ly attended an October 21 open Canada Line station in Vancouver. The city’s assistant direchouse hosted by the city at tor of planning for VanCollingwood Neighbourcouver South says that the hood House, and the 23-yearcity is collaborating with old was “overwhelmed” by Carlito Pablo TransLink and developers of the plans. Ly and other residents started organizing two of the biggest properties along the Cambie and later held two alternative information ses- corridor on a future stop at 57th Avenue. “We’re really undertaking that work now sions with community members at the same and looking at preparing a cost estimate and… neighbourhood centre. “I’m not against development or increasing a potential strategy,” Susan Haid told the density, but how it’s being done is very market- Straight by phone. The Onni Group, which purchased most of driven,” Ly told the Georgia Straight on November 26 on the sidelines of one of these events. She the 10-hectare Pearson Dogwood lands from said she is worried that future developments will Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), is expected have an impact on vulnerable members of the to offer a contribution when it fi les a rezoning application next year for the site on the south community like low-income renters. Among those who showed up at the infor- side of West 57th Avenue. On the north side of West 57th Avenue is Lanmation session organized by the Joyce Area Residents Association (JARA) was local MLA gara Gardens, a rental complex co-owned by the Adrian Dix. The NDP representative for Van- Peterson Group and Concert Properties. The couver-Kingsway browsed displays prepared by city is developing a redevelopment policy for the the group, whose demands include guarantees eight-hectare property. “Developers would like to see a station of affordable housing in new developments. Dix’s office on Joyce Avenue is a few doors achieved,” Haid noted. “It’s certainly good for acfrom a proposed 29-storey condo tower that cess to their sites. So in both cases, we’re looking Westbank Projects Corp. has planned for at opportunities for a potential contribution.” When the Canada Line was built, provinorth of the SkyTrain station. Joseph Jones, a civic watchdog from another sions were made for future stations at 57th and part of East Vancouver, also attended. Jones 33rd avenues. The Pearson Dogwood lands and had been critical of the city’s planning process Langara Gardens are a 10-minute walk from for his Norquay neighbourhood, which is now Langara–49th Avenue Station to the north and Marine Drive Station to the south. experiencing rapid development growth. In 2010, the city approved a new plan for the With high-density developments seen for Norquay area along and around Kingsway be- both sites—as well as VCH’s plan to develop its tween Gladstone and Killarney streets. One of the remaining one-hectare portion of the Pearson projects currently under construction is a massive Dogwood lands for health care and community condo complex by Westbank on Kingsway. uses—Haid said a station at 57th Avenue is an Many JARA organizers are young people ideal amenity. like Arielle dela Cruz Yip, who noted that more She said: “We want to, as planners, make than a third of residents in Renfrew-Colling- it as livable and as complete a community as wood are renters. possible.” -
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savage love I’m a straight female in my mid-20s. I’ve been dating a wonderful guy for two years—but I recently found something that has put me on edge. Before we met, he was in a relationship with a terrible, alcoholic, and mentally unstable woman. They got pregnant early in the relationship and stayed together for about five years. We met a year after they broke up. I felt like I’d come to terms with the ugliness of his past, with his trying to stay in a bad relationship for the sake of his child and the rest of it. But recently, thanks to the vastness of the Internet, I came across a suggestive photo of my boyfriend with his ex’s sister. I asked him about it, and he admitted to sleeping with her while he was with his ex. He says it was during a particularly bad period, he was very drunk, she made the first move, et cetera, but I’m just so grossed out. Cheating is one thing, but fucking your girlfriend’s sister? And it’s not like this was a 19-year-old’s mistake; he was near 30 and the father of a child. He also fudged a little about whether it was just one time or a few times. I feel like now I’m questioning his integrity. This is something that I wouldn’t have thought him capable of doing. What do I do? > ALL TWISTED UP
What do you do? You ask yourself if you believe your boyfriend when he says fucking his then girlfriend’s sister was a mistake, ATU, one he deeply regrets, and one he never intends to repeat. If you can’t be romantically involved with someone capable of doing such a terrible sister-fucking thing,
> BY DAN SAVAGE
the question is a rhetorical one. You’ll have to end the relationship regardless of the answer. But if you could stay with someone capable of doing such a terrible sister-fucking thing, and if you believe your boyfriend when he says it was a mistake, one he regrets that won’t happen again, then you stay in the relationship. And when you find yourself feeling squicked out by the knowledge that your boyfriend fucked around on his previous girlfriend with her own sister, you remind yourself that good and decent people sometimes do shitty, indecent, sister-fucking-ish things— and then you pause to consider all the shitty and/or indecent things you’ve done in your life, ATU, of some, most, or all of which your boyfriend presumably remains blissfully unaware. It’s too bad that suggestive/incriminating photo is rattling around out there in the vastness of the Internet, ATU, but I’m curious about how exactly you “came across” it in the first place. If you went looking for dirt—if you were snooping—you found it. Congrats. I’m not against snooping in all instances. People often find out shit they had both a right and an urgent need to know: the BF/GF/NBF*/fiancé/spouse is cheating in a way that puts you at risk, they’re running up ruinous debts, they’re hiding a secret second family, they’re attending Donald Trump rallies, et cetera. But just as often, we find out shit we didn’t need to know—something in the BF/GF/ NBF’s past, something they regret, something they’ll never do again (do
you even have a sister?)—and can never unknow. You learned that your boyfriend did something pretty fucked-up. Whether you decide to stay or go, ATU, remember that you snoop at your own risk—sorry, remember that you explore “the vastness of the Internet” at your own risk.
I’m a 37-year-old straight male in a relationship with a slightly older woman. I have a GGG girlfriend, and I am completely GGG—until we talk about having a MMF threesome. We have great sex and have experimented together. We tried playing with a couple to give her the “two-dick experience” she wanted, but the other man was of “average” size and she was not into it. I’m of average stature, and she made such a fuss about having someone extra large join in that it threw my hangup about my size into overdrive. It’s paralyzed me sexually. I’m afraid she’ll leave me or run off looking to fulfi ll her need on her own. > AVERAGE NERDY GUY SHUNNING THREESOMES
If leaving you is the only way this woman can ever experience an above-average cock again, ANGST, then she might leave you. Depending on how important sitting on an above-average cock now and then is to her, your insecurities may create an incentive for her to leave you or cheat on you. But if she can have you and all the good times and the great GGG sex you two have
together—if she can continue to enjoy your cock and the things it and you can do for her along with the occasional ride on an aboveaverage cock—then you’ve created a massive incentive for her to stay.
Is your reproductive system already harmed? You’ll have to discuss that with your gynecologist, STD, who is in a far better position than I am to have a look inside you. As for your boyfriend: he needs to get tested and treated too, and if his last STI screening was more than a year ago, it’s possible he infected you and not the other way around. If your boyfriend leaves you over this—if he blames you for something he may be responsible for—then he’s not someone you want in your life or in your twat.
How bad is chlamydia? My gynecologist left me a voice mail, and I am absolutely terrified. A quick Google search told me that it can cause infertility if left untreated—what it didn’t tell me is how long when left untreated before it causes infertility? I told my boyfriend of 10 months, and My younger brother outed he seems very sane about it. But I am me to our parents, our siblings, and our only living grandparent. I’m a terrified that he’ll leave me. Help! > SERIOUSLY TERRIFIED DAMSEL straight woman and into bondage, SM, and kinky swinging—nothing Some time has passed between your outrageous—and I tried to keep this letter arriving and my response ap- aspect of my sexuality (and my marpearing in print—so here’s hoping riage) hidden. Things are fine now: you called your gynecologist back, Mom and Dad are mad at my brothSTD, and got the lowdown and the er, not me, and my siblings (save the treatment you needed. fundamentalist) are over it. But I Quickly: chlamydia is a common wanted to share my grandmother’s sexually transmitted infection (STI); reaction: she called to tell me that my men and women are equally at risk; late grandfather liked to be tied up it can be contracted through vaginal, and spanked too and that their maranal, or oral intercourse. Your Goo- riage (47 years!) was more fun for it. > KINK ISN’T NEW, KIDDO gle search was accurate: left untreated, chlamydia can cause infertility in women. But you’re not going to leave That’s wonderful—and so true! it untreated, right? Fortunately, chla- Thanks for sharing. mydia is easily cured. Unfortunately, most people who have chlamydia * Nonbinary friend. aren’t aware they’re infected, as most infected people have no symptoms. On the Lovecast, Dan chats with writer That’s why it’s extremely important Parker Molloy about relationships with for all sexually active people—adults trans folks. Email: mail@savagelove. and adolescents—to get regular net. Follow Dan on Twitter at www. twitter.com/fakedansavage/. STI screenings.
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redhotdateline.com 18+ DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 69
> Go on-line to read hundreds of I Saw You posts or to respond to a message < QUEERS & BEERS NIGHT
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 29, 2015 WHERE: Cobalt Hotel - Queers & Beers Event Hanna(h?)... You were saving my seat and keeping my cousin company. I was fashionably late. We chatted for a bit over some craft beer samples. You had to dash to pick up your son. You seemed fun and interesting. I’d like to get to know you.
TARA AT THE ODYSSEY
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B & B CONTRACTING GUY
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 30, 2015 WHERE: 22 Bus, Broadway-Kits Beach Saw you on the 22 bus around 1:45pm today. You were wearing a B & B Contracting sweater and had nice blue eyes. I have shoulder length brown hair and was wearing a royal blue shirt and grey skirt. You smiled when I got on the bus at Broadway and we kept looking over at each other, smiling. You made my day! I got off at Cornwall & Balsam, but maybe I’ll see you again?
I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 28, 2015 WHERE: The Odyssey Nightclub in Vancouver
PASSING SMILES & PLAYFUL GLANCES OUTSIDE THE CENTRAL BRANCH LIBRARY
We met, we danced, we hung out. I lost my wallet and phone. You had to go home and take care of your dogs. I regret not taking you up on the offer to continue the interaction at a later date. If you see this, get in touch!
I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 29, 2015 WHERE: VPL Central Branch - Homer & W Georgia intersection
FRIENDLY TAIWANESE GIRL ON GRANVILLE STREET SATURDAY NIGHT
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 28, 2015 WHERE: Granville Street You had your hood up and we were chatting while walking up Granville on Saturday night. We got separated before I had a chance to give you my number; I would love to connect again.
PHARMACY BEAUTY
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 23, 2015 WHERE: Family Clinic - Lonsdale Ave North Van Pop... pop... Apparently our initial conversation at the Lonsdale clinic/pharmacy (Lonsdale and 10th/8th) consisted of bizarre popping sounds we made when you were working amongst a variety of medical supplies. But I remember mostly your energy, your black hair and some of the craziest, beautiful eyes I’ve ever seen.... Hopefully you remember my 6’1” frame, dark beard and dark jacket that day and can put some meaning in this message... You never know ;)...
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We were both crossing the street outside the library, walking towards each other (you on the library side). I was hurrying to get across the street and we exchanged big smiles as I hurried past you. I kept walking, but looked back over my shoulder once on the library side and noticed you looked back at me too. I kept looking back over my shoulder once we were both on opposite sides of the street and noticed you kept looking back at me smiling. We playfully did this about 3-4 times. I have long brown hair, was wearing red pants, a black jacket and burgundy toque. I remember you had dark hair and a black jacket (I think). Anyway, this playful exchange kept me grinning for the rest of the day. I’m a hopeless romantic, and this is a long shot, but I’m kind of hoping you read the Georgia Straight!
SEXY PARAMEDIC
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 27, 2015 WHERE: Forever 21 Metrotown You crossed my path as I exited the change room at forever 21. Me: head to toe black, caramel goddess. You: delicious paramedic uniform. Do you want to kickstart my heart over coffee?... the morning after ;)
WAITING FOR THE N35 SFU BUS ON A COLD SATURDAY NIGHT
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 21, 2015 WHERE: East Bound Commercial and Hastings I was waiting with my sister at the SFU bound N35 stop at Commercial and Hastings Street (~midnight) when I noticed you and exchanged smiles. I’d recognized you as a fellow CAP U student who I used to see randomly last year. Liberal arts Emma, you seem to have a cool personality that I would like to get to know a little better! and if you are reading this, you are even the cooler!
SAT. 6PM, COMMERCIAL DRIVE, FALCONETTI’S OR CANNIBAL CAFE
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 28, 2015 WHERE: Falconetti’s or Cannibal Cafe, Commercial Drive We used to pass by one another on Commercial Drive (between Broadway and 3rd, walking on the East side of the street, you going north, me south towards the train) most mornings around 8am, back in January. We’d nod and sometimes smile... and then my schedule changed. I’m guessing you work somewhere on the Drive. You have dark hair, warm eyes, wear black shirts, a hat, and you walk fast. Once I saw you with a friend of mine - you and I acknowledged one another but didn’t talk, and he made a comment about my dress. I saw you today as I was going home, around 6pm - at least I think that was you. You were either at Falconetti’s or Cannibal Cafe, sitting at the bar, corner seat, talking to someone. I’ve been wondering who you are and where to find you...
YOU’VE GOT A SWEET VAN
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 27, 2015 WHERE: Strathcona Park I first noticed the massive safari rack on top and that your van seemed to be sitting higher than stock. The A/T BF Goodrich tires were pretty badass too. Pretty sweet Astro you’ve got there.
RED TOQUE AND BLONDE ON THE 99 B-LINE @ 11:30AM
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 27, 2015 WHERE: 99 B-Line We were on the B-Line this morning. When the sunlight flashed through the windows and hit your eyes, they shone green and blue. Someone called you. You took out your cell, answered with a voicecracky “Hello?” (hastily clearing your throat afterwards). I tried not to look at you, but I’m grateful for the I thrilling two seconds of eye contact we made. I was wearing sports leggings, runners, and a backpack. I hurried off at the Cambie stop, and I felt you behind me for a brief bit. Why didn’t I say hi? I guess I’ll try to ride the 99 B-Line on Friday mornings in hopes of running into you again.
I FOUND YOUR PHONE!
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 20, 2015 WHERE: Main Street- Science World. And restored your faith in humanity (as you said.). I hope you didn’t think I don’t want you to have my number, I do! I think you seem really nice and I’d like to have more friends like you.
TEAL TRUCK SHOWDOWN
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 22, 2015 WHERE: Main Street Me turning left on 12th at Main with one female friend in the passenger seat. You heading west on 12th in an identical teal truck. As we turned you waved. Was that wave at us? Let's be friends with super awesome trucks.
TUESDAY NIGHT @ ALIBI ROOM
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 24, 2015 WHERE: Alibi Room I love the Alibi Room! You sat at the next table and we had no interaction but you caught my eye- you had black glasses on, great smile and ate mussels. You were in a party of three - I was hoping you wee their wheeling but it was hard to tell! Next time, you, me, beer, mussels!
CAULIFLOWER CUTIE
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 24, 2015 WHERE: Nuba in Gastown I don’t know if it's because you were confident enough to have dinner by yourself or if it's because I watched you eat an entire plate of cauliflower with such gusto but I wish I worked up the nerve to talk to you. You were sitting at the bar by yourself and I was a couple of seats away also having dinner by myself. Maybe next time we can have dinner together.
SPANK
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 26, 2015 WHERE: Spank Commercial You work at Spank on Commercial Drive. Slim, dark hair, eyes that could turn mountains into dust. You are so wickedly cute. It’s a pleasure every time I see you.
YOU’RE STILL TANNED!
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 24, 2015 WHERE: Supplement/Health Food Store You came into the supplement/health food store where I work looking for something to help your cold. I helped you with a product recommendation. You seemed really nice & cute, and I’d love to hear more about your recent trip!
I WILL EAT LIVER EVERYDAY
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: JANUARY 19, 2015 WHERE: Lucy’s Diner We met to talk about the nonsense that goes along with riding on 8 wheels. I didn’t care. I just wanted an excuse to talk to you. Our legs touched and neither of us moved. I somehow managed to tell you about my crush on you and your blue pants. I left. You ran out to hug me. I watched you from my car. I am a shy jerk. But that was the cutest thing ever. Meet me there again? I promise I won’t just watch you this time.
SKYTRAIN TRAVELING INTO DOWNTOWN
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 24, 2015 WHERE: SkyTrain Westbound Joyce/ Stadium I got on at Joyce and you were standing on the other side of the train next to the doors. I noticed you right away as you noticed me too... We tried not to stare at the other but we busted each other a few times. I was wearing brown RayBans with a black jacket facing your direction. You are a caucassion brunette with curled hair, were wearing all black and you got off the train at Stadium. Can I take you out for a drink?
YOU WERE WALKING YOUR DOG THIS MORNING IN GRAYS PARK.
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 23, 2015 WHERE: Grays Park Hello! You have an adorable black dog and I stopped you to say hello to it. You have a fantastic smile and it was a really great way to start my morning. I would’ve chatted you up but I was in a rush to catch my bus. I saw you look back! I would totally go out for coffee with you. Are you single?
THE GIRL WITH THE CUTE HAT AT GOGOL, ON THE WAY OUT
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 22, 2015 WHERE: Commodore Ballroom By the coat check I commented on your nice hat. I know you wanted to talk to me, but after my friends showed up, it was hard to leave them. I am wanting to meet you still.
WE LOCKED EYES A FEW TIMES AT CINEMA ON FRIDAY
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I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 22, 2015 WHERE: Cinema on Granville I was there briefly. Didn’t get a chance to chat with you. Was there with three buddies. I was in suit, tall blonde. If you remember shoot me a message.
Did you see someone? Go to straight.com to post your FREE I Saw You _
70 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
straight stars December 3 to 9, 2015
A
s of Friday, there’s more of everything on a fresh wave as Mercury/Jupiter puts travellers, shoppers, and holiday revellers on the go. By evening, Venus leaves Libra for Scorpio, tenanting this sign through the end of the month. This transit is good for moneymaking and lovemaking, and also for making a turnaround where it counts the most. Venus in Scorpio looks to relate with deeper impact, to create a more lasting impact. Considering the plight of the refugees, the state of the world in general, and the complexities of our private lives, this holiday season is surely one that opens the heart to deeper, more poignant reflection and yearning. The moon in Libra keeps the socializing and shopping in good swing this weekend. By midday Sunday, Mars turns a corner with Pluto, urging us to accept what was or what is, to open up to a fresh perspective and try an alternate angle or approach. Time is moving on, people and circumstances are on the move-along too. Mars/Pluto creates better opportunity to move past a hurdle, find a more effective solution, and gain better control. By the look of the stars, moving on to a next plan or page should be a natural and relatively smooth progression. Hanukkah begins with the Scorpio moon well aligned with fluid Venus and Neptune. Tuesday can spark a good idea, a great meetup, a special event, or something more; sun/Uranus keeps it upbeat, lively, and delightful. Next Thursday is also one to watch.
ﺎ
ARIES
March 20–April 20
As of the weekend, you’ll start to see a noticeable momentum shift. You’ll find you make a bigger dent regarding your to-do list and you’ll also see significant progress regarding a relationship or money matter. Sunday through next Thursday, it’s onward and upward you go. Watch for matters to go easier, smoother, and faster than you’ve seen over recent weeks.
ﺏ
TAURUS
ﺐ
GEMINI
CANCER
April 20–May 21
Venus into Scorpio, starting Friday night, and Mercury into Capricorn, starting next Wednesday night, will help you get a better grip on whatever has challenged you over the past few weeks. Your coping skills continue to be tested, but past Sunday, a problem will start to work itself out. By next Thursday, Mars makes a major breakthrough or springboards you.
> BY ROSE MARCUS
uncertainty going through Thursday, the new week begins at a much smoother, easier pace. You should start to feel a significant shift as of Sunday afternoon. Use Monday/Tuesday to your greatest advantage. Luck, creativity, and opportunity are on your side. Try something new, reach out; stay open, willing, and available.
ﺒ
LEO
July 22–August 23
’Tis the season for lights, colour, and charge cards. While you’re checking off your to-dos and catering to the season’s demands, don’t forget to include yourself on the gift list. Indulge them, indulge yourself this weekend. Monday/ Tuesday, you can go about your business and/or keep it under wraps quite well. To Thursday, Mars/Uranus keeps opportunity on a fresh, hot brew.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed or go overboard. Venus into Scorpio, starting Friday, can make you more money-conscious, but it also helps you to be a shrewder shopper. Mercury into Capricorn loans you practicality and helps you stay on budget. Tuesday and next Thursday are optimal for talks, shopping, socializing, and jumping right into it. Spontaneity delivers it best.
ﺓ
August 23–September 23
Making it or spending it (and likely the latter), it’s a money weekend. Whether planned or spontaneous, it’s also a good social weekend. Monday/Tuesday, you’re a clever one. You’ll feel your way along, read between the lines, spot the deals, or know how to pitch it just right. Starting Wednesday, Mercury in Capricorn loans you better control and increases your efficiency.
ﺑ
ﺔ
September 23–October 23
May 21–June 21
June 21–July 22
VIRGO
LIBRA
fuelled and sharp-shooting. On Sunday, if something isn’t necessary, why take on the extra pressure? Mars/Pluto reminds you that time is running short. On the plus side, Mars/Pluto and Mars/ Uranus can bring you to the end of a problem or project. Monday through Wednesday, it’s a breeze. Next Thursday, you’re on a major upswing.
ﺕ
SCORPIO
ﺖ
SAGITTARIUS
ﺊ
CAPRICORN
October 23–November 22
Away from the crowds, wrapped in the arms of your lover, attending a concert, or off doing your own thing are ideal options for Friday/Saturday. Sunday could see you spend or get pulled into more than you plan. Hit it full tilt Monday/Tuesday while the stars make the getting so good. Thanks to the Scorpio moon, you’ll easily strike gold. November 22–December 21
You’ll find yourself on a good catch-up with work, your to-do list, and folks, too, through next Friday’s new moon. Saturday and Sunday are good social or getabout days; money is on the move too. Monday/Tuesday is excellent for creative solutions, research, planning, plotting, sales, or sweet talk. Venus and Mercury help you pinpoint things and stay on track. December 21–January 20
longer to accomplish, by the end of the weekend you should have a good portion of the planning, and the must-do and choose-to lists, checked off. Monday/Tuesday, the stars are on a smooth and synchronistic flow. Mercury’s trek into Capricorn on Wednesday night and Thursday’s Mars/Uranus combo launch the next wave.
ﺋ
AQUARIUS
ﺌ
PISCES
January 20–February 18
With so much to do and so much going on, time can simply evaporate this weekend. By midday Sunday, you should start to feel a shift or a lift. On Tuesday, the sun/ Uranus trine sparks a great idea or conversation, a perfect find, or a fun evening out. Socially, romantically, shoppingwise, or entertainmentwise, next Thursday evening is a happening one. February 18–March 20
Subtle or significant, you’re likely to feel Venus into Scorpio—starting Friday night— and Sunday’s Mars/Pluto as a major momentum shift. Monday/Tuesday should prove to be smooth sailing. Mercury into Capricorn, starting Wednesday night, is also a helpful, stay-on-top-of-it transit. Tuesday’s sun/Uranus and next Thursday’s Venus/Neptune keep the money rolling and the social, creative, and romantic spark well lit. -
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While Mars and Uranus Friday through Sunday, While the congestion a re a d i n g w i t h R o s e M a rc u s a t will keep the tension, stress, and/or the moon in Libra keeps you well everywhere can make things take www.rosemarcus.com/astrolink/.
DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 71
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72 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 3 – 10 / 2015
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