The Georgia Straight - Turkey Tips - Dec 14, 2017 by The Georgia Straight

2 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 / 2017

DECEMBER 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 3

20% OFF FLIP FLOP BEDS!

An OTTOMAN that FLIPS OUT to a BED! * Sale ends Wednesday, December 20, 2017 *

3 Choose a designer cover

2 Choose a firmness 1 Choose a size

Flip Flops Starting @ $13900

Designer Slip Covers extra

4 FLIP OUT!

NEW LOCATION!

Since

1986

www.majesticsitandsleep.com

2141 BURRARD ST (TOP FLOOR), VANCOUVER • 604-731-8226 Vancouver’s Source for Certified Organic Latex

E EINGK F RRKBAC PA IN

PETER WALL YALETOWN | 1310 Richards Street, Vancouver | 778.903.5066

OPEN HOUSE Dec 16 & 17

NOW RENTING Rental Incentives Available! Call for details!

YALETOWN’S FINEST LIVING ■ Studio ■ 1 Bedroom ■ 2 Bedroom Located in the heart of Yaletown, overlooking English Bay and False Creek, Peter Wall Yaletown is a rare residential leasing opportunity

www.pwme-yaletown.com | suites@pwme-yaletown.com PETER WALL’S AMBER LODGE 1045 West 14th Avenue, Vancouver | 604.731.2714

OPEN HOUSE Dec 16 & 17 RE-OPENING RENOVATED SUITES Studio ■ 1 Bedroom ■ 2 Bedroom Excellent Incentives - Ask for Details www.pwme-amber.com | suites@pwme-amber.com PETER WALL’S YORKSHIRE APARTMENTS 2336 York Avenue, Vancouver | 604.736.3395

OPEN HOUSE Dec 16 & 17 RE-OPENING RENOVATED SUITES Studio ■ 1 Bedroom Excellent Incentives - Ask for Details www.pwme-yorkshire.com | suites@pwme-yorkshire.com 4 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

Time is precious. Choose your beer accordingly. Next time you have a Mill St Original Organic Lager, take your time. This way you won’t miss the distinct flavour that comes with using only the finest ingredients. The result is a light, crisp, refreshing taste with a clean finish. Now that’s something worth savouring.

Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #40009178, return undeliverable Canadian addresses to The Georgia Straight, 1635 West Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. V6J 1W9

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 5

a division of Overwaitea Food Group LP, a Jim Pattison business. Proudly BC Owned and Operated.

6 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 / 2017

CONTENTS The Leader in Electric Bikes

SEASON END

SALE

20% OFF

Open Mon-Fri 9-5pm, Sat 10-4pm 103-930 Harbourside Drive North Vancouver

ohmcycles.com

Extended until Dec 31st

CALL NOW 604 770 2600

Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Crossing. Grant Mattice photo.

COMMENTARY

B.C. Green Leader Andrew Weaver notes that the road tolls on the Golden Ears and Port Mann bridges alone would have paid for cancelling Premier John Horgan’s Site C dam albatross. > BY CHARLIE SMITH

ARTS

We talk to Winter Harp about how it finds its old carols and which rare instruments will bring them to shimmering life. > BY TONY MONTAGUE

MOVIES

It’s a cold, wet war in The Shape of Water; Rebels on Pointe gets serious about camp; wry comedy sits on The Other Side of Hope; Call Me by Your Name sunk by grandiosity.

COVER

Plan ahead for Christmas turkey dinner: should you use brine and butter? How about deboning? Any new side dishes? > BY GAIL JOHNSON

START HERE 33 16 10 13 39 17 9 22 14

The Bottle Confessions I Saw You Real Estate Savage Love Straight Stars Straight Talk Theatre Urban Living

TIME OUT 27 Arts 36 Music

SERVICES

MUSIC

From the ever-glamorous Gwen Stefani to the disturbingly backwards Alabama, we tell you what to hit and what to miss in this year’s crop of Christmas albums.

37 Careers 13 Real Estate

CLASSIFIED

GeorgiaStraight @GeorgiaStraight @GeorgiaStraight

COVER PHOTO TRACEY KUSIEWICZ

Stylish natural living since 1981

Organic Natural Healthy Sleep Mattresses, linens, pillows & duvets Well made locally for over 35 years from premium organic cotton, linen, hemp, wool, buckwheat, and kapok. Thoughtfully designed for optimal comfort and durability. We also carry bath, yoga, clothing & baby

2749 Main Street (12th & Main) Tel 604.254.5012 dreamdesigns.ca DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 7

Perrier or San Pellegrino

Sparkling Water 750 mL

plus deposit & recycle fee

SAVE Aqua Star

Shrimp Ring with sauce 624 g

C a li fo rn

5.00ea

14.99

Michell's Gourmet Foods ea

Garlic Sausage 750 g

SAVE

3.00ea

5.99

2/ $2.50

Maxwell House

Roast Coffee 925 g

7.99

Fr e s h e tin Clemen rins a Man9d07 g

3.99

in Pumpk Pie 8

Wonderful

Pistachios

roasted & salted or unsalted 225 g

2lb

600 g

SAVE¢

5.99

Parisian Bread ea

fresh baked in-store 510 g

2.99

S AVE¢

5.29

Tropicana

Orange Juice

2.63 L plus deposit & recycle fee

4.99

Armstrong ea

Cheese 700 g

7.99

deals from: DECEMBER 15 - DECEMBER 28 CHECK US OUT ONLINE: IGASTORESBC.COM TWITTER @IGASTORESBC • FACEBOOK IGA STORES OF BC

VANCOUVER

110 - 909 Burrard Street

489 Robson Street

2286 West Broadway

SPREAD SOME HOLIDAY CHEERS Share our seasonal 12-packs, featuring Lions Winter Ale and more, with friends and family this holiday season.

Wishing you a safe and social holiday season, from everyone at Granville Island Brewing.

8 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

straight talk at 6:35pm,” one of those reads. STREETLIGHTS TOP POT The city responds to complaints SHOPS IN CITY COMPLAINTS

Complaints about marijuana dispensaries have increased each year since the City of Vancouver implemented a licensing regimen in 2015. But even after three years of consecutive growth, the number remains relatively small. In 2015, there were 30 complaints, according to data supplied by the city. Then 84 in 2016 and 112 in 2017 (up to December 6). For comparison’s sake, so far in 2017 the city has received 348 complaints about other business categories (excluding illegal housing suites and short-term rentals like those on Airbnb). Meanwhile, this year there have been 5,529 complaints about potholes and 7,734 about streetlight outages. Kathryn Holm is the city’s director of licensing, property-use inspections, and animal services. In a telephone interview, Holm noted that complaints are up across the board. (In 2015, there were only 1,479 pothole complaints, for example.) Holm explained that the city has worked to make people aware that they can file grievances by calling 311 or via the VanConnect app, so more people are using those services. She described 112 complaints about marijuana storefronts as a “manageable volume”. “Whether it’s low or not, ideally we’d have no complaints,” Holm added. “I wouldn’t say the sky has fallen.” Today there are about 95 cannabis storefronts operating in Vancouver. A sample of complaints provided by the city suggests that another reason the numbers have gone up is because after the city created rules for marijuana businesses, residents could report them for breaking those rules. “Citizen is calling to complain about a marijuana business operating without a licence,” reads one example. And a second: “Caller is concerned that business is operating without a licence and within 300m of a school.” There are, however, other complaints about the plant itself and dispensary-employee conduct. “Citizen reports that the dispensary had people smoking and ‘dabbing’ inside in the business

about marijuana businesses, having issued 2,402 tickets since the new bylaws were introduced. Only 425 tickets have been paid, but that doesn’t mean that delinquent dispensaries get off scot-free. Walter Sorto operates two cannabis storefronts under the name Sunrise Wellness Foundation Dispensary. He told the Straight that even a single complaint or ticket can have severe consequences. Sorto explained that the city’s regulatory process takes complaints into account and weighs them against a dispensary’s application for a licence. So if someone wants to go legitimate with their business—a potentially profitable option with the federal government legalizing recreational cannabis and new laws scheduled to come into effect in July 2018—the smart move is to play by the rules. “A complaint can completely deny a request with the city to open up a dispensary,” Sorto emphasized. > TRAVIS LUPICK

CONDO OWNERS MUST MAINTAIN KEEFER STEPS

When is a public walkway private property? In Vancouver, there is one glaring example, according to one of the city’s former directors of planning, Brent Toderian. That’s the well-used Keefer Steps, a pedestrian connection between Dunsmuir Street and Chinatown beside SkyTrain’s StadiumChinatown Station. In a phone interview with the Straight, Toderian said the developer of International Village built this walkway as a condition for being allowed to construct buildings in the area, including condo towers with such names as Firenze and Espana. “Under normal circumstances, the Keefer Steps would be dedicated to the city as part of the development,” Toderian said. “They would be given to the city as public land.” However, because the steps were built over an underground parking lot, the lands needed to be kept in the hands of the developer, with a public agreement over them to ensure unfettered public access. Instead of the city taking responsibility for their maintenance though, as a result of a city-imposed condition, condo residents, including

Toderian, are required to cover the costs of maintenance of the Keefer Steps as part of their strata fees. “Of course, most people would never know nor care that they’re technically privately owned because of the parking underneath,” he said. “They walk and talk and quack—as I like to say—like a public space.” Toderian maintained that he’s not personally concerned about the extra fees that he’s paying to his strata corporation, because he knew about this requirement when he bought his condo. However, he said that other homeowners in International Village are unhappy that they’re required to cover the costs of maintaining what is, in effect, a public pedestrian thoroughfare. Moreover, Toderian said, there’s a widely accepted philosophy in planning that if a space is universally beneficial rather than benefiting a select few, , it’s either designated as a public space or maintained by the public purse. “Over a little bit of time, the city got greedy,” the former planning director alleged. “The city started to move the line on that philosophy of what is a private benefit versus public benefit. The epitome of that are the Keefer Steps.” He also said that before he became the planning director in 2006, the city deliberately avoided taking responsibility for some quasipublic spaces during the development process to avoid maintenance costs. Toderian added that he stopped this practice of forcing maintenance costs for space that’s essentially public onto a few adjacent residential buildings. He expects that the status of the Keefer Steps will remain problematic for the city. “The challenge, when it comes, won’t be a legal challenge,” he said. “It will be a fairness challenge. It will be a political challenge. It will be ordinary people going to council and saying, ‘Explain to me why this makes sense.’ ” In 2009, then–city councillor Geoff Meggs wrote a blog post noting that the Keefer Steps aren’t the only mostly public space in private hands. He also cited a public walkway through the Shangri-La hotel property, the Dunsmuir entrance to Granville Station, and an elevator that takes people from Expo Boulevard to the Georgia Viaduct. > CHARLIE SMITH

The Georgia Straight | Vancouver’s News and Entertainment Weekly | Volume 51 Number 2606 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) Amanda Siebert (Cannabis) EDITORIAL ADMINISTRATOR Doug Sarti ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Gail Johnson, John Lucas, Alexander Varty STAFF WRITERS

Tammy Kwan, Lucy Lau, Travis Lupick, Carlito Pablo, Craig Takeuchi, Kate Wilson SENIOR EDITOR Martin Dunphy 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, Jacqueline Turner, Andrea Warner, Jessica Werb, Stephen Wong, Alan Woo 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 (On Leave) JUNIOR WEB DEVELOPER Riva Ridley WEB ADMINISTRATOR Miles Keir

ART DEPARTMENT MANAGER

Janet McDonald

SENIOR DESIGNER David Ko PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Mike Correia PRODUCTION

K.T. Dean, Sandra Oswald

AD SERVICES ASSOCIATE

Jon Cranny

DIRECTOR OF ARTS AND SPONSORSHIP

Laura Moore SALES DIRECTOR

Tara Lalanne

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

Glenn Cohen, Robyn Marsh, Manon Paradis, David Pearlman, Calvin Rasode, Catherine Tickle

CONTENT AND MARKETING SPECIALIST

Tori Macnab ADVERTISING + PROMOTION ASSISTANTS

Maya Keeven (On Leave), Ahlia Moussa

ADVERTISING ASSISTANT

Johnnie Smart CIRCULATION MANAGER

Dexter Vosper

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR

Dennis Jangula

CREDIT MANAGER Shannon Li ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR

Tamara Robinson

The Georgia Straight is published every Thursday by the Vancouver Free Press Publishing SUBMISSIONS The Straight accepts no responsibility for, and will not Corp. Copies are distributed free every week throughout Vancouver, Burnaby, North necessarily respond to, any submitted materials. All submissions should be and West Vancouver, New Westminster, and Richmond. International Standard Serial addressed to contact@straight.com. 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 © 2017 Vancouver Free Press, Best Of Vancouver, BOV And Golden Plates Are Trade-Marks Of Vancouver Free Press Publishing Corp.

Vancouver 24/7 #GeorgiaStraight DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 9

ONE STOP SHOP for all your VAPES & SMOKING NEEDS

20% OFF

ALL BONGS with this ad.

tee ante aran Guar ice Gu Pric st Pr west LLoowe

NOV 30 - DEC 21

BONGS • E-CIGS E-JUICE • VAPORIZERS

To advertise contact 604.730.7020 or sales@straight.com

Tel: 604-688-8998

www.kickvapes.com 1721 Davie Street

CALL ME FOR EXPERT ADVICE W W W.TOFFOLI.CA | PAUL@TOFFOLI.CA

604.787.6963

MASTER M E DA L L I O N MEMBER

PLUS, BONUS DRAWS ON DECEMBER 20 AT 3PM

> Go on-line to read hundreds of I Saw You posts or to respond to a message < WHOLE FOODS CAMBIE

RICHARDS STREET

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 5, 2017 WHERE: Propaganda Coffee

I've seen you around Whole Foods sporadically for some time, but lately a lot less frequently. I saw you tonight for the first time in a long while and I would have liked to finally meet, but you were on your way out as I got there. You are tall, with longer hair, black hat and tattoos. I always see you shopping solo. I am a tattooed, blue eyed brunette. I'd like to go for coffee with you!

I was walking up Richards street and my GPS was not working, I asked you for directions to Pacific Centre and you walked and showed me the way. You were so beautiful, sweet and kind. I wish i would have asked you for your number.

You came into Propaganda Coffee on Pender St. this morning. You were tall with curly black hair. You sat by the window and started writing. I was sitting in the opposite corner, my hair was braided to one side and I was wearing red lipstick. If I wasn’t having a work meeting I might have tried to work up the courage to slip you my number. Maybe you will see this?

You were at a bust top, right outside Social Brown House, waiting for the bus, you looked like you came out of a movie scene. I looked like I came off the bike, with a batch of dark chocolates in my hand. You gave me the best smile ever, I wanted to stop and chat with you. Alas, perhaps you’ll check this section if you had a similar thought. :)

CELIS IN RICHMOND

$2 MILLION

I saw you at celis in Richmond. I was wearing a burgundy suit. You were staying at the executive Inn next door. You had to leave for work in the morning and I forgot to get your number before I left. It's bugging me now. Hopefully you see this and are still In town.

THANK YOU

4X BALLOTS EVERY THURSDAY

I was having a bit of a struggle when you brought me a napkin and fork. It was a very nice gesture and made my day. Still smiling. Thank you.

CUPCAKES ON SKYTRAIN

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 8, 2017 WHERE: SkyTrain Towards Vancouver You sat across from me, had a pair of pink/purple headphones on and had a glass tray of cupcakes on your lap. You looked out the windows for a while then dived into your Kindle. I was too scared to talk to you; I’m sure those cupcakes were delicious and I hope I can try one sometimes! :)

LINGERING OVER LINGERIE

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 7, 2017 WHERE: Change Lingerie Cambie Street We passed each other; me leaving, you entering the store. You held the door and I said ‘thanks’. Haven’t stopped thinking about that simple interaction. I wish I had lingered longer over the bras, and watched you in the store. Were you looking for a gift? A surprise for someone? If I hear from you, I’ll show you what I bought myself.

REDHEADED PUNK GIRL

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 3, 2017 WHERE: 333 Saw your band play 333 on Sunday. Thought you were really attractive. I was too shy to introduce myself and I wasn’t sure if your bassist was your boyfriend. Would love to see you again. I’ll be at your next show working up the nerve to say hello.

RELIGIOUS STUDIES 201

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 8, 2017 WHERE: UBC Me: short brown hair and round glasses You: black hair wearing a black turtleneck We just sat down to write our final exam. I looked up at you and caught you looking at me. You smiled but I was shy and looked away. I think you’re really cute and I’ve had a crush on you all semester. I want to take you somewhere so we can be cute together.

SAVARYFEST RED SHIRT

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: AUGUST 5, 2017 WHERE: Savaryfest

We danced until it was dark and when everyone began leaving I lost you. You said you moved to the islands because you were disenchanted with the city. I regret not getting your name, and I hate losing track of someone good. If you see this i’d love to talk again.

DEATH FROM ABOVE DANCER

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: NOVEMBER 21, 2017 WHERE: Commodore Ballroom I was standing beside you for the whole show. Side stage with a friend. You were drinking ginger and Jameson. Would like to meet if interested.

Visit straight.com to post your FREE I Saw You _

Rules Apply. Visit Players Club for details.

604.683.7277

39 SMITHE STREET, VANCOUVER, BC V6B 0R3

are

you

on the

LIST? 10 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 5, 2017 WHERE: 2nd floor

Earn ballots by playing slots and table games

PARQVANCOUVER.COM

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 2, 2017 WHERE: Celis in Richmond

CHOOSE 10 WINNING ORNAMENTS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 8, 2017 WHERE: Richards Street

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 10, 2017 WHERE: Kitsilano

Monday – Thursday 8PM Friday – Saturday 9PM | Sunday 6PM

I SAW A: I AM A: WHEN: DECEMBER 11, 2017 WHERE: Whole Foods Cambie

KITS BUS STATION ACROSS FROM WHOLE FOODS

DECEMBER 1 – 28

PROPAGANDA COFFEE

SIGN UP FOR THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT’S WEEKLY NEWSLETTER for exclusive access to pre-buys, concerts, movies, getaways and more!

To subscribe visit STRAIGHT.COM/NEWSLETTERS

Premier John Horgan (with Environment Minister George Heyman and Energy Minister Michelle Mungall) sounded dejected at his recent Site C announcement.

Axing bridge tolls led to a $10.7-billion dam

t was sad and surreal watching and B.C. benefiting from decades of Premier John Horgan’s Decem- agricultural production, he and his ber 11 news conference about the brain trust decided that motorists Site C dam. He conceded that his will pay no tolls to cross two bridges wife and his brother disagreed with in the eastern suburbs of Vancouhis government’s decision to complete ver. And that might ensure the NDP construction of the $10.7-billion alba- keeps its seats in Metro Vancouver’s tross in northeastern B.C. The premier northeast sector and Surrey. also acknowledged that there were During his news conference, Hordeep divisions in other NDP families. gan’s fiscal somersaults were breathHorgan certainly knew that with taking. According to him, cancelling this announcement, an undetermined the Site C dam would result in fewer number of NDP voters would switch public services than would be created their allegiance to the B.C. Greens. by completing the project. Horgan That’s because B.C. Green Leader An- also argued that proceeding with this drew Weaver and $10.7-billion prohis colleagues have ject will somehow made a compelling protect ratepayers case for cancelling Charlie Smith from higher B.C. the project. In part, Hydro rates. it’s based on the price of other forms of At its current cost, the Site C dam renewable energy plummeting, mak- would pay for the cost of a subway ing Site C power far more expensive in from SkyTrain’s VCC-Clark station comparison. to UBC, six light-rail lines in SurHorgan’s justifications for proceeding rey, and two new Pattullo bridges. It sounded like they were right out of the would pay for about 100 schools or mouth of the finance minister, Carole 20 new hospitals. James, who was in Ottawa negotiating Yet here was Horgan making the a larger share of cannabis revenues. He case that cancelling the Site C dam pointed out that cancelling Site C would would make it much harder for the have meant that a $4-billion debt would B.C. government to build schools and have to be repaid with no prospects of hospitals. That’s to say nothing of the revenue from the dam. That’s because impact on Indigenous relations, the more than $2 billion has been spent and future of food production in B.C., or another $1.8 billion would need to be the deleterious effect on the renewablespent on remediation costs. energy sector and the employment and The premier maintained that this tax revenue that it would generate. would deprive the NDP government In 2015, author Jeff Rubin made the of fiscal room to deliver new rapid case in The Carbon Bubble: What transit, schools, and other public ser- Happens to Us When It Bursts that vices in this term. He also claimed that farmland is the new gold. That’s becancelling the project would result in cause climate change was helping agrian immediate 12-percent increase in culture north of the 49th parallel. He B.C. Hydro rates. And that, he sug- reported that NASA had noted that gested, went against the NDP promise the growing season is 26 days longer of making life more affordable. on the Canadian Prairies, on averHorgan delivered this message age, than it was 50 years ago. This is with all the conviction he could enabling the production of new crops muster, though he sounded thor- such as soybeans and corn. oughly despondent. “Already today, food prices proAs Weaver pointed out later, the vide a lot more value added than NDP eliminated any fiscal wriggle oil or coal,” Rubin told the Straight. room before the election by can- “Thinking of it in the future, that’s celling tolls on the Port Mann and going to be all the more the case.” Golden Ears bridges. On his webThe Site C dam was created, in site, Weaver noted that the end of large part, to provide energy for road tolls moved $4.7 billion from B.C.’s liquefied-natural-gas industry, self-supporting debt to taxpayer- which is unlikely to materialize. In supported debt. That’s more than the the future, electricity prices could cost of cancelling the Site C dam. fall sharply as increasingly cheap As a result of the New Democrats’ renewables pick up the slack and decision on bridge tolls, any increase people and communities start generin the provincial debt from cancel- ating their own power. ling the Site C dam would lower B.C.’s premier and his cabinet, on B.C.’s credit rating and cost taxpay- the other hand, have decided that beers significantly more in debt-service cause of sunk costs already spent, this payments each year. justifies spending almost another “Yet today, they evoke concerns $9 billion on a 1950s-style hydroelecabout increasing provincial debt as tric project that’s going to undermine the reason why Site C must move B.C.’s agricultural production. forward,” Weaver stated on his webSomehow, we’re led to believe that site. “Had they not so crassly elimin- this will enable the province to afated the tolls in a desperate attempt ford more schools, rapid-transit proto grab votes, Site C could have been jects, and hospitals. cancelled today.” It’s a topsy-turvy political world Horgan made a choice. Rather in British Columbia. And you than having no Site C dam, restor- thought things were crazy south ing the beautiful Peace River Valley, of the border. -

Commentary

Winter

Clothing

Ski Packages

[skis, bindings, boots]

70 OFF $ 199 $ 199

UP TO

FROM

Snowboard Packages

FROM

[snowboard, bindings, boots] Junior Ski/Boot Season Lease from $150

| Bring your Skis/Boards in for Servicing

102 W. Broadway (at Manitoba), Vancouver | 604-879-6000

sportsjunkies.com

World Mosaic Tile

WAREHOUSE CLOSING 1.1 MILLION INVENTORY

LIQUIDATION SALE OF QUALITY PORCELAIN, CERAMIC & STONE TILES

• Wall & Floor • Interior & Exterior • Hand Painted Tiles

- Kitchen Backsplash - Bathrooms - Fireplaces

ALL PRODUCT IS

1ST CHOICE!

2 % 50-70

• Trims & Special Pieces in Ceramic & Marble • Italian Porcelain Wood Plank • Bathroom Sinks from France

ENTIRE INVENTORY DISCOUNTED

STARTING AT

$ 99

SQ. FT.

OFF*

(MARKED PRICE)

SALE ON NOW! | 1665 W 7TH AVE. VANCOUVER STORE HOURS: Tues-Fri: 10am-5pm | Sat: 10am-4pm | Sun & Mon: Closed

(Closed Dec. 21 to Jan. 1)

SALE CONDUCTED BY

www.maynardsretail.com Retail Group

*Special Order Not Included | All Sales Final, Cash & Carry

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 11

To: Me From: Me The weather outside may be frightful, but your feet will feel delightful. And after years of winter slush and country muck, your Blundstone boots will look and feel even better than new. It’s a gift that’s worth it, thank you very much.

#1306 The Leather Lined in Rustic Brown $219.95 Australian Boot Company Now Open! 104 Water St., Gastown, Vancouver 604-428-5066 1968 West 4th Ave., Kitsilano, Vancouver 604-738-2668 Mail order or free catalogue call 1-877-842-1126

Celebrate the Georgia Straight’s

50th Anniversary with a limited edition Bob Masse poster! Available for a limited time and is signed by the artist Bob Masse and Georgia Straight’s publisher Dan Mcleod Visit straight.com/shop to buy the poster V

2 2

n d

2017

NEW LISTING

FOR SALE

110-1450 LABURNUM ST I $479,000

2151 PARKER STREET I $1,079,000

1 bed, 1 bath, 610 SF Kits Point corner condo Well laid out living room, good size bedroom, kitchen & dining room + a 598 SF patio Balconies, pipes, roof & elevator all done. Pets & rentals OK. Secure parking & storage locker included.

SNEAK PEEK: THURS Dec 14th - 5 - 7pm OPEN HOUSE: SAT Dec 16th - 2 - 4pm OPEN HOUSE: SUN Dec 17th - 2 - 4pm 12 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 1,212 Sq. Ft. back half-duplex in East Vancouver Open living/dining area w/ gas fireplace, modern kitchen with granite counters & direct access to the private patio & garden

STONEHOUSE R E A L

T E A M

E S T A T E

A D V I S O R S

604 255 7575 EMAILUS@STONEHOUSETEAM.COM

Radiant heat throughout, laundry & detached garage. New roof, & new on-demand boiler. Sutton West Coast Realty I 301-1508 W Broadway

HOUSING

Raman Gill’s first home is a tiny one-bedroom condo in Yaletown—he bought it because of a recognition that this is what was possible for him in Vancouver.

Home Search: Condo buyer remains realistic Digital marketer says the key for him was coming to terms with living in a shitty housing market

aman Gill understands “increasing headwinds” for buyers. why many young people “A rising-interest-rate environment despair about ever owning will certainly erode affordability in a home. The 30-year-old the new year, while tougher mortgage manager at a digital marketing com- qualifications for conventional mortpany can relate to that feeling from gagors will reduce their purchasing his own experience. power by up to 20 per cent,” according Gill recalled that when he was to the realtors’ association. growing up, he thought that a halfThe BCREA also anticipates avermillion dollars could purchase a age home prices in Metro Vancou“mansion”. With ver, the Fraser a mortgage for Valley, and the roughly the same Chilliwack disamount, he got a trict to increase Carlito Pablo 630-square-foot by four to six percondo in the Yaletown neighbour- cent in 2018. hood of Vancouver two years ago. In Gill’s case, he had some things “To end up buying, like, my first that helped. He had saved a large little tiny one-bedroom condo was sum because he lived rent-free with just eye-opening to me,” Gill told the his parents in their family home for Georgia Straight in a phone inter- two years. view. “This is the actual world that Gill had money in a registered we live in.” retirement savings plan, and it was He noted that young people have his realtor, Chris Teoseco, who told to be “more creative” nowadays “be- him that he could use up to $25,000 cause we do live in a shitty housing of RRSP funds for a down payment. market; like, that’s the only way to Teoseco also prepared him for the really describe it”. fierce downtown market. “He got “Your first property may not be me to make sure my mortgage was in the ideal location that you want preapproved, so I could go in with to be in; like, living downtown can’t no subjects, which was essential to be a reality for everyone, just based having a competitive offer,” Gill said. on the pricing that we do have,” Gill In closing the deal for his condo, said. “But then perhaps you can look Gill went up against seven other at something closer to a SkyTrain sta- buyers, offered $25,000 over the asktion in Richmond or Surrey so that ing price, and asked no conditions you can still have that easy commute.” from the seller. He also suggested buying someGill’s work is three blocks—or where else and renting it out while five minutes on foot—from where leasing in a place that is either close he lives. With the many restaurants, to work or suited to a chosen lifestyle. shops, and other amenities in the “Then you’re still building up your area, Yaletown fits his young and equity, you’re paying off something outgoing lifestyle. that you actually own,” Gill said. What Gill bought may not be the Even though he’s pleased that his mansion he envisioned as a child, but condo has appreciated in value, Gill he believes it was a good deal. is worried for other young people “My condo has appreciated more who haven’t yet entered the market. than $200,000 in the two years I have “Unfortunately, it seems that owned it, which is obviously a great people will have to reduce their ex- return but also shows how out of conpectations,” he said. trol the Vancouver housing market Next year is expected to be tough- is,” Gill said. “Had I waited any longer, with tighter mortgage regulations er, there is no way I could have got in, and rising interest rates. In its hous- because $650,000 to $700,000 for a ing forecast for 2018, the B.C. Real one-bedroom is way too high for one Estate Association (BCREA) predicts person to be paying a mortgage.” -

Real Estate

Buying or Selling I am with You Every Step of the Way STEVE FLYNN RE/MAX Central, 1-5050 Kingsway, Burnaby Independently Owned & Operated

cell. 604.785.3977 steveflynnrealestate.com DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 13

URBAN LIVING

Nifty gifts for the host

rganizing and pulling off a holiday dinner or get-together among one’s closest pals is no easy feat. Between expertly brining the turkey, executing vegan and nonvegan dessert options, and subtly driving the conversation in a way that keeps everyone happy (i.e., with as few mentions of politics, residential real estate, and Lena Dunham as possible), it’s a miracle that anyone would even volunteer to host these damn things. So forget the generic bottle of wine: at your next shindig, make sure you show the party giver a little love with one of these thoughtful and original host(ess) gifts—many of which are made in Vancouver.

For the condiment king or queen—or anyone who dines with a bottle of Tabasco by their side—there’s Jonny Hetherington Essentials’ hot sauce trio ($33). Locally made from mostly B.C. ingredients, the gluten-free and vegan products provide dishes with a kick of heat tempered by the sweetness from peaches, beets, and pineapples. If your recipient shies away from spice, check out Jonny’s artisan ketchup trio ($24), which uses fresh tomatoes and offbeat ingredients like goji berries. Find them at Urban Fare (various locations). SPICE OF LIFE

A coconut-wax candle by Hollow Tree offers a bright sign of gratitude to your party giver.

better grinds seeds and spices, the minimalist device makes cooking up homemade guac, pesto, and other ingredients a cinch. Find it at Lee Valley Tools (1180 Southeast Marine Drive).

IT’S LIT For the candle connoisseur or WestCoast-Best-Coaster, there’s Hollow Tree’s luxe collection of coconut-wax candles ($42) that celebrates the history and spirit of B.C. and the province’s dense forests. From the sandalwood-spiked Lumberjack and musky Arbutus to the jasmine-andLucy Lau WE SCREAM No dinner is sage infused Fireweed, the complete without dessert, but even better is a des- fragrances are produced in the French town of sert that the party giver can eat in peace, quiet, Grasse—widely considered the world’s capital and solitude—preferably with a large spoon and of perfume—and then hand-poured in reusable directly out of the package—after guests finally ceramic jars in Whistler. Find them at Kiss and leave the premises. Enter La Glace’s recently re- Makeup (1791 Manitoba Street and 1545 Marine leased take-home ice creams ($15 for 500 mL), Drive, West Vancouver). which come encased in mint-hued glass jars that are as rich as the West Side shop’s French-style IN BLOOM Whether your recipient is an experitreats. Choose from five flavours, including the enced or budding gardener, there’s no denying vegan Coco Pandan and seasonal Pain d’Epices the versatile and sustainable nature of Strathcona and Rum and Eggnog. Find them at La Glace 1890’s urban seed collections (from $17.50). Capable of thriving on spatially challenged patios, (2785 West 16th Avenue). balconies, and rooftop greens, the seeds grow into BUMP AND GRIND Take a friend’s culinary plants and edibles like parsley, dwarf sunflowers, game to the next level with the Milton Brook and radishes and are non–GMO, to boot. The mortar and pestle ($58.50) from Wade Ceramics. beautifully decorated canisters revolve around The trusted U.K. label has been producing ceram- themes like the Bee Garden, a blend of pollinatorics for more than a century, earning a reputation friendly perennials such as forget-me-nots, and for high-quality housewares, and this handy set the Junior Farmer, which includes easy-to-grow is no exception. Crafted from unglazed porcel- snap peas and carrots. Find them at Nineteen Ten ain, which lends the surfaces a textured feel that (4366 Main Street). -

Urban Living

Buy your Park Board Gift Card today!

a t e G

$ 10s

when y you bu a $ rd Gift Ca

bonuon coup

Use your $50 Gift Card to

• • • • •

Buy or renew your Flexipass Register in Community Centre programs Bounce around at Kerrisdale Play Palace Visit VanDusen Botanical Garden AND MUCH MORE!

Use your $10 Bonus Coupon to

• • • • •

Register for skating and swimming lessons Improve your endurance with indoor cycling Pay for green fees at our championship golf courses Visit Bloedel Conservatory AND MUCH MORE!

14 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

Offer available Nov 20 to Dec 26, 2017 *Terms and conditions apply.

vancouver.ca/giftcardpromo

STRAIGHT WRAPPED

for the

HOLIDAYS

for the

Gifts That Keep Giving RECHARGEABLE MAGIC WAND Hailed since 1968 as the best vibrator on the market, the newly updated Rechargeable Magic Wand now features eight settings and a lithium ion battery. For extra fun, match this classic with easily washable silicone attachments Euphoria and Bliss Tips. Womyns' Ware Inc. 896 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, B.C. www.womynsware.com

THE TENGA SLEEVE Sex toys are becoming socially acceptable, partly thanks to innovations in design. Fans of the masturbation sleeve, behold! An option that doesn't look like a disembodied orifice! The Tenga Sleeve and locally made, all-natural Sutil lubricant make an elegant pair. Womyns' Ware Inc. 896 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, B.C. www.womynsware.com

Cannabis Connoisseur

THE CIGAR OF CANNABIS Prana is the Cigar of Cannabis and is the result of Maitri's passion n for cannabis and design. Each ceramic piece is meticulously handmade and made with intention. Each wooden mouthpiece is engineered by cabinet makers and then hand finished to create a luxurious and ergonomically pleasing interface. Prana is part of the Maitri collection off handmade cannabis accessories that are designed to elevate the cannabis experience from storage stor g to consumption.

GOO GOOD O THINGS COME IN SMALL PACKAGES Miss Mis s Envy's THC infused bath bomb made with love. lo ov Each handcrafted bath bomb is infused with 50 mg of THC that delivers all over body w rrelaxation and can potentially improve sleep! A perfect stocking stuffer or gift for the canna-curious. Available in Rosemary LLavender, Sweet Orange, and Lemon Lime. Village Bloomery Vil V #206-1540 W 2nd Ave, Vancouver, B.C. #2 20 www.villagebloomery.com ww ww

for the

Travel Expert OUR TRAVEL EXPERT INSISTED ON AN INCREDIBLE SALE, AND WHO CAN SAY NO TO THAT FACE? Well-designed luggage can help make a great trip, from the moment you begin packing until the calm when you return home, and every exciting step in between. That's why global travelers rely on Briggs & Riley for luggage that is stylish, innovative and performance-driven. And every Briggs & Riley bag is backed by the industry-leading lifetime performance guarantee. Simple as that.® Engineered for Reality - Guaranteed for Life The holiday sale price $50 off every $350 spent on all collections. *Offer applies to full priced style only. Valid until December 31, 2017.

Wanderlust – The Traveller’s Store 1929 W. 4th Ave., Vancouver, B.C. 604-739-2182 www.wanderlustore.com

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 15

DECEMBER SALE

50% OFF FURNITURE *25% off specials*! *Some Exclusions May Apply

NOV 30 - DEC 21 Visit our website to view our entire selection

To advertise contact 604.730.7020 or sales@straight.com

We are not just an antique store!

1324 Franklin St. @ Clark Dr, Vancouver, BC, V5L 1N9

604-875-1434 | Tuesday - Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM www.antiquesdirect.ca

e l a S

STARTS MONDATYH DEC. 18

ONAL TAKE AN ADDIT

STOREWIDE BOXING WEEK

25 SALE! %

The Georgia Straight Confessions, an outlet for submitting revelations about your private lives—or for the voyeurs among us who want to read what other people have disclosed.

OFF

TED THE DISCOUN

PRICE

AGENT PROVOCATEUR CANADA LTD.

L’AGENT BY AGENT PROVOCATEUR ALSO AVAILABLE

2 MILLION LINGERIE INVENTORY

BANKRUPTCY SALE BRAS PANTIES THONGS STOCKINGS BRIDAL

SWIMWEAR COVER UPS BODYSUITS PLAYSUITS SHOES

CAMISOLES SILK GOWNS KIMONOS CORSETS HOUSE COATS

SLIPPERS PERFUME DRESSES JEWELLERY & MORE!

THE ENTIRE INVENTORY DISCOUNTED SALE W! O ON N

% OFF

Sale

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN ALEXIS MABILLE ANDREW GN INVENTORY FENDI GIAMBATTISTA VALLI KENZO MANOUSH MARTIN GRANT OSCAR DE LA RENTA REEM ACRA SAINT LAURENT REG. RETAIL VERSACE & MORE!

DISCOUNTED BY

16 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

Staff Xmas Party - Lubricated Hair I was running late for my staff xmas party and had just run out of hair product. I remembered the lube in my girlfriend’s bedside table... surpassed all expectations! I had one of the best hair days ever! Even co-workers said I was ‘looking fresh’ and my boss asked me where I get my haircut. I never mentioned the lube though.

Dump your apps - all of ‘em Since I took the social media diet I lost 15 lbs, have no idea what Trump is up to, enjoy my real friends, and am a happier person. I highly recommend the social media diet.

Silly I keep a chestnut in my coat pocket that I like to hold. It calms me...It’s from my chestnut tree that I call Charlotte, and I feel like she is protecting me. I tell no one, I just don’t think anyone would get it or call me crazy.

Oops If your house got egged on Halloween or some other night between 1997 and 99 that might have been me, sorry about that. Just some minor teenage mischief, I wanted to look cool and fit in and rebel and all that.

Hello Dolly I’m 25 years old and still sleep with my stuffed turtle once in a while. I’m a dude. It brings me comfort. It represents this little piece of childhood in my heart that I want to hold on to, and never want to lose, no matter what the world throws at me.

REG. RETAIL

WOMEN’S BAILIFF DESIGNER FASHIONS SEIZURE

! THE s u l ENTIRE PINVENTORY

Scan to confess

% OFF

ALL SALES FINAL

OPEN DAILY 1168 ROBSON ST. VANCOUVER

www.maynardsretail.com

Visit

to post a Confession

Celebrate the Georgia Straight’s

straight stars > B Y ROSE MA RC U S

December 14 to 20, 2017

hile Mercury in Sagittarius continues in retrograde, trusting your intuition or first impression is likely correct, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always wise to consider all options. Tunnel vision can be a folly of the retrograde cycle. If second-guessing gets the better of you, take a short pause. Finishing out the workweek, Mercury retrograde teams up with Venus. It is a helpful transit for reevaluating where you are at and where you think you are heading to next. Overspending, overeating, or indulging more is likely, but â&#x20AC;&#x2122;tis the season! Synchronicity keeps it upbeat for the weekend. The sunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trine to Uranus on Saturday sets a great backdrop for socializing, shopping, and keeping the spark well lit. Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new moon in Sagittarius is wonderfully aligned with Mercury retrograde, Venus, and Uranus. Heart, body, mind, and soul should find no trouble hitting the Goldilocks zone. By all means, make the most of the moment! For the past two-and-a-half years, Saturn has taken up residence in Sagittarius, a mobilizing and broadening archetype. During this transit, you may have felt subjected to or overwhelmed by matters beyond your control. The future and its prospects have likely taken on a more serious or urgent tone. Late Tuesday, Saturn enters Capricorn, its home sign. During the next two-and-a-half years, Saturn will work to complete the process that is already under way, to cement a new reality baseline. If it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have what it takes to withstand the test of time, it will not. It will be replaced by something that can.

ARIES

March 20â&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 19

Places to go, things to do, people to meet, money to make, money to spend: now through the weekend, the stars help you to make the most of it. Great ideas, rapport, and entertainment are on the ready dial-up. A spark can be easily lit. Saturn in Capricorn, starting late Tuesday, places you at or closer to a right-time, right-place threshold.

note too. Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sun/Uranus and Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new moon keep the action going strong. Over the next couple of Saturn-in-Capricorn years, it is wise to put maximum effort toward your health, financial security, and professional development.

VIRGO

August 22â&#x20AC;&#x201C;September 22

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find yourself on a good bounce-back through the rest of Mercury retrograde. Now through midâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;next week, the stars dish up good prospects for significant improvement with a family member, your health, or regarding a recent challenge. Saturnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advance into Capricorn is of benefit to your sign. It is a personal-fulfillment and success-generating transit.

LIBRA

SCORPIO

September 22â&#x20AC;&#x201C;October 22

A full-to-the-brim, onthe-go few days lie ahead. Planned or serendipitous, reconnections are delightful. This weekendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s checklist: socialize, shop, enjoy yoga, sports, et cetera. Whether subtle or obvious, Saturn in Capricorn, starting Tuesday, lays the foundation of new home, family, and personal-life reality. Parents, parenting, real estate, downsizing, and professional reputation gain priority focus.

CLOSED DECEMBER 25, 2017 Experience an Arctic Oasis at Bloedel Conservatory with seasonal lights, music, and a holiday scavenger hunt.

October 22â&#x20AC;&#x201C;November 21

Thursdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moon in Scorpio keeps you going strong. Despite Mercury retrograde, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a knack for timing it right and for making the most of it through the weekend. Monday onward, slow it down/pace yourself. Aim to stick to the budget or pull back on the unnecessary extras. Saturn in Capricorn, starting Tuesday, helps you to put time and money to better use.

DECEMBER 15, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JANUARY 7, 2018 10:00AM ~ 8:00PM DAILY

vancouver.ca/holidayheights #holidayheights

SAGITTARIUS

November 21â&#x20AC;&#x201C;December 21

Beyond a time to partake, enjoy, and make merry, Mercury retrograde teamed up with Venus on Friday can gift you with special attention. It can also stir up fond memories or fresh insights. Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new moon is laden with auspicious potential, especially so if it is your birthday. MaTAURUS terially and emotionally, Saturn in April 20â&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 20 Capricorn gives you something more Thursday/Friday are great substantial to build from. for reconnecting and for loving them CAPRICORN up. Saturday/Sunday also pushes the December 21â&#x20AC;&#x201C;January 19 refresh button or puts you on the While your sign is one of move in some well-timed and opportune way. Monday/Tuesday, get on it; the most nostalgic regarding the holiget it done. Saturnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transit through day spirit, no one will fault you if you Capricorn, starting late Tuesday, is of want to disappear for the weekend. benefit to your sign. The transit helps Through Sunday, no matter where you to build it better and to reap you are, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to get swept up. As of Monday, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re back in full command. more reward. Saturn in Capricorn puts a more serGEMINI ious spin on actions and transactions.

May 21â&#x20AC;&#x201C;June 21

As the week finishes out, you could have a change of heart, more to discuss, more to buy, or further to go. It all works out, perhaps even better than expected. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an ideal weekend for socializing and for tapping your creative genius. Saturn in Capricorn puts a more serious spin on building financial security, on parents or parenting, and on relationship contracts.

CANCER

June 20/21â&#x20AC;&#x201C;July 22

Whether it is another discussion or taking it further in some other way, Mercury retrograde can see you revisit something lucrative or beneficial. More time, effort, or money is required, but you stand to gain in the short and long term. The weekend is full to the brim but mostly smooth going. Saturn in Capricorn helps or forces you to build it better.

LEO

July 22â&#x20AC;&#x201C;August 22

A delightful gift, reconnection, social event, financial bonus, or piece of news ends the week on the upbeat. Love and pleasure hit a high

AQUARIUS

PISCES

January 20â&#x20AC;&#x201C;February 18

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great weekend to go all out; travel, socialize, or pick from your greatest-hit list. One way or another, Venus/Mercury retrograde make for delightful reconnections. Spending is unavoidable. Monday onward, finish it off; wind it down. As of Tuesday, slow down and take a load off. Less is more. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. February 18â&#x20AC;&#x201C;March 20

The weekend could bring news and mark a special occasion, event, anniversary, or milestone. Now through Monday, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll hit a well-timed finish line. Saturn in Capricorn, starting late Tuesday, launches an important next stage, phase, or life chapter. Saturn cements the growth from the past couple of years and puts you closer to a long-awaited goal post. Gift certificates for private astrology readings are available. Find out what 2018 has in store for you by contacting Rose Marcus at http:// rosemarcus.com/.

DECEMBER 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 17

URBAN LIVING

Spruce up your dining area for the holidays with eye-catching and practical accessories like these glittering agate cheese boards from Anthropologie.

Bold tabletop décor for a memorable meal > B Y LUCY LAU

’T

is the season to gather around the table and eat, eat, eat—and with that comes more attention on your dining table than happens during the rest of the year combined. (Bless you, by the way, if you’re one of the brave souls who’ve offered to host the rest of us culinarily challenged degenerates for the holidays.) And while you’re likely focused on perfecting a killer tofurky or gluten-free stuffing, it pays to put a little effort into the look of your dining area, too. Below, a roundup of our favourite dinnerware and accessories that make a showstopping tablescape and that you can use for years to come. TASTE THE RAINBOW Forget basic silverware: Mepra’s rainbowhued cutlery (from $30 each) offers tabletops a punch of lively colour. Crafted from dishwasher-safe stainless steel, the modern forks, spoons, and knives boast a mirror finish that sparkles and glows in the light. If anything, these easy statement pieces make a welcome (and shimmery) distraction from any dishes that may have gone awry in the kitchen. Find them at Atkinson’s (1501 West 6th Avenue). SHAKE IT OFF To add a sense of

whimsy to your tablescape, swap out your plain-Jane salt and pepper shakers for Normann Copenhagen’s Friends salt-and-pepper set ($45). The curvy porcelain vessels are adorned with illustrations that present them as topless and mustached friends Gordon and Andreas. The duo are identical, save for a painted leather vest that allows you to differentiate between salt and pepper. Consider them a conversation piece and a noncommittal way to introduce some humour to mealtime. Find them at espace d (215–332 Water Street).

ABOVE BOARD It’s 30 minutes to dinnertime and you’ve still got a halfdone ham in the oven and a trifle to assemble. What’s the best way to keep guests occupied and out of the kitchen?

18 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

With a bottle of wine and a cheese plate, of course—preferably served on a pretty agate cheese board ($78) that will keep comments to “Where did you get that?” and not “I thought you said dinner was at 6.” Pick from amethyst, pink or white quartz, green, or dyed blue, each with a glittering gold trim. Find them at Anthropologie (2912 Granville Street and 766 Main Street, West Vancouver). ICE ICE BABY As fun as offbeat prints and patterns are, sometimes you just can’t beat the glint of classic gold décor during the holidays. So if you’re going to go gilded, go big with the hammered-gold ice bucket ($39.99) by President’s Choice. The container comes with a matching scoop and makes a cool, vintage-inspired addition to bar carts that you can break out for NYE, birthday soirees, or, really, any celebration requiring vat-chilled drinks. Find it at the Real Canadian Superstore (various locations). PLANT POWER Take your greenery

from pot to tabletop with Crate and Barrel’s adorable monstera-leaf napkin ring ($5.95 each). Modelled after the extremely photogenic houseplant that’s taken Instagram by storm of late (#MonsteraMonday, anyone?), the functional piece offers tablescapes a fun, Mother Nature–influenced detail that’s far from traditional hollies or poinsettias. Whether for casual brunches or summertime shindigs, it’ll become a staple in your entertaining arsenal. Find it at Crate and Barrel (650 West 41st Avenue).

CRYSTAL CLEAR Things can get a little crazy in a crowded room after a few drinks—especially with pets and tots involved—which is why we love the brilliance of Italian designer Mario Luca Giusti’s Milly tumblers ($42 each). The cups look like fancy crystal from afar but are actually constructed from durable and hardto-crack acrylic that will survive any unexpected falls or spills. Available in a range of juicy shades like red, yellow, and green, they work great alfresco once summer rolls around, too. Find them at Atkinson’s. -

ARTS

Winter Harp’s curious menagerie of old instruments includes a chin cello and a Swedish nyckelharpa, making for sounds that are both medieval and mysterious. Lori Papajohn (below left) directs.

Forgotten carols found again

Is This?’—to me one would have done three or four thousand years of the most beautiful ago, so it takes us way back in our cellular pieces ever written— memory.” and that they can sing Winter Harp’s eight musicians also sing along to in their hearts. about customs you won’t encounter elsewhere, And then do carols such as wassailing. The word wassail was used that are unknown, like in England as both a greeting and a toast, and ‘The White Ship’.” relates to two distinct practices, both ref lected Papajohn interrupts in seasonal songs. The orchard-visiting wassail the interview to accept involved reciting incantations and singing to a delivery of the print- the apple trees to inspire a good harvest for the Winter Harp’s Lori Papajohn starts searching for holiday songs ed programs for coming year, along with making a racket when the weather’s still warm, and often finds obscure treasures Winter Harp. to chase away any bad spirits lurking She returns nearby. The house-visiting wassail Check out… On hot August days when everyone else and adds: “I also like to balance the STRAIGHT.COM involved going door-to-door, singheads for the beach, harpist and singer Lori poignant pieces with happy ones ing and offering a drink from the Visit our website wassail bowl in exchange for gifts. BY TONY M ONTAG UE Papajohn is happily enveloped in snow—in her like ‘Fum, Fum, Fum’, which is for morning-after mind, at least—creating December’s annual from Catalonia. You want to dance “The song that we do, ‘Wassail! reviews and local Winter Harp program of seasonal music and at Christmas as well as sing praises. Wassail!’, is of the second type,” arts news readings. Papajohn loves nothing better than It’s the same with ‘Patapan’, a carol Papajohn says. “You go to the house exploring the wealth of old carols and from France. Christmas music is some of the feudal lord and ask for food, midwinter songs, some celebrated and of the most joyous in the western tradition. and in return you give the blessing on the some obscure. In the Northern Hemisphere countries, it’s dark house. It’s a bit like I remember carolling used “I start with the music, and then I and cold at this time, and that’s when we gather to be—a custom that’s almost disappeared now, get together with Alan Woodland, who round the fires, when we tell the stories, and a great shame.” writes a lot of our readings, and we add when we sing.” Papajohn is unapologetic about the nostalgic the texts,” says Papajohn, founder and Not all the instrumental music on this year’s aspects of Winter Harp’s presentation, which director of Winter Harp, on the line program is as old as it may sound. “Winter Sky” can move listeners in mysterious ways. “What from her home in New Westminster. was written by Papajohn herself. “It begins with we, and other groups like us, do is the very “There are a couple of dozen trad- an organistrum, the droning instrument from opposite of the ‘spend, spend, spend’ type of itional carols that everybody in North medieval Spain that’s a forebear of the hurdy- Christmas. We’ve had people experience epiphAmerica knows—beautiful carols that gurdy. Then the regular medieval psaltery [a anies in our shows. Several people have told bring tears to people’s eyes. But I love stringed instrument of the zither family] plays me, ‘You changed my life.’ What we do with to spend time researching what I call a verse, and then it’s joined by the bass psaltery. the stories and the songs is to open doors to the forgotten carols. And there are So you have two psalteries and organistrum, people’s hearts.” hundreds and hundreds of them. which produces the most ethereal sound, like Asked when the festive season ends for her, “I go through book after book after light shimmering on water.” Papajohn laughs. “After the Winter Harp tour book, I listen a lot, I go to the library Winter Harp’s curious menagerie of instru- I’m so inspired by it all that music just comes to check out all their Christmas CDs, ments also includes the chin cello—which, ac- to me, and I start writing. So Christmas never and I ask myself, ‘Why are these car- cording to Papajohn, is a viola strung like a really ends.” ols forgotten? Why is it that we sing cello—and the Swedish nyckelharpa, a keyed “O Little Town of Bethlehem” but fiddle with 12 sympathetic strings that give its Winter Harp performs at the BlueShore Finanwe don’t sing “Christmas Comes But Once a sound a ringing resonance. “What’s different cial Centre for the Performing Arts in North Year”—one of the carols we’re doing this time— with Winter Harp is that you’re hearing instru- Va n c o u v e r o n We d n e s d a y a n d T h u rs d a y which is fun and happy?’ It does fascinate me. ments that you wouldn’t hear otherwise, and (December 13 and 14), at St. Andrew’s–WesSo I like to do a mix of carols that audiences of course the harp,” she notes. “Most musical ley United Church in Vancouver on Saturday are familiar with, like ‘The First Noel’ and ‘O instruments have evolved, but with the harp, (December 16), and at the ACT Arts Centre in Come, O Come, Emmanuel’ and ‘What Child if you pluck a string, it sounds exactly like it Maple Ridge on Sunday (December 17).

THINGS TO DO

ARTS High five

Editor’s choice CHORAL ARRAY You want variety? Vancouver’s all-male Chor Leoni offers up a holiday concert with songs as diverse as the treats on a fully loaded Christmas-cookie tray. Artistic director Erick Lichte gleefully mixes the nontraditional with beautifully arranged classics. Think a version of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” with a gospel-meets–Boyz II Men feel; tunes by indie darlings Tori Amos and Ron Sexsmith; and a rollicking rendition of “The Mummer’s Song”, drawn from the Newfoundland tradition of disguised carollers and the kitchen parties they create. Add a singalong “O Come, All Ye Faithful”, Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas”, and a new composition, “Winter” from Winter Proverbs, by Frances Farrell, and you’ll feel like you’ve gotten a full Yuletide fix. Christmas With Chor Leoni is at St. Andrew’s–Wesley United Church on Friday and Monday (December 15 and 18) and at West Vancouver United Church on Saturday (December 16).

Five events you just can’t miss this week

MUSIC FOR THE WINTER SOLSTICE (December 14 and 15 at Heritage Hall) A deeply moving, nontreacly sonic alternative to kitschy carol stuff.

DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (To January 13 at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage) A lavishly staged fairy tale, with Shannon Chan-Kent as Belle.

EAST VAN PANTO (To January 6 at the York Theatre) A hirsute evil stepmother plus a gothy Snow White plus aging-rocker dwarves equals a laugh riot.

CHRIS LOCKE (December 14 to 16 at the Comedy MIX) An entertainingly original voice in Canadian comedy right now.

THE NUTCRACKER (December 14 to 19 at the Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts) Lots of fun, kid-friendly touches in Goh Ballet’s trip to the Land of Sweets.

Guest pick

CHUTZPAH UNVEILED Dance names from as far afield as Italy and Israel, a solo piano concert by Idan Raichel, and Mary Walsh’s new one-woman show are some of the highlights in the justannounced Chutzpah Festival lineup, slated to run from February 15 to March 15, 2018. Amid the strong dance programming, Israeli company Roy Assaf Dance debuts here; the U.S.’s Ezralow Dance appears; and Michele Merola’s MM Contemporary Dance Company makes its North American premiere (presented with the Italian Cultural Centre; shown here). Chutzpah will also stage the premiere of Salomé: Woman of Valor, a multidisciplinary work created by the Klezmatics’ Frank London and spoken-word artist Adeena Karasick. Standouts on the music roster include Idan Raichel’s show and Mexico’s Troker, with its blend of jazz, hip-hop, mariachi, and more. On the comedy schedule, look for This Hour Has 22 Minutes star Walsh, as well as humorist Jonathan Goldstein. A full lineup and tickets are at chutzpahfestival.com/. -

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 19

ARTS

5-CONCERT FESTIVAL JANUARY 18–22, 2018 The VSO's 5th annual New Music Festival shines a spotlight on new creations, featuring great Canadian and international composers, renowned guest artists, and collaborations with Early Music Vancouver and Standing Wave. Curated by Maestro Bramwell Tovey and VSO Composerin-Residence Jocelyn Morlock, the New Music Festival also features internationally renowned violinist Rachel Barton Pine. RACHEL BARTON PINE

BRAMWELL TOVEY

STANDING WAVE

NICHOLAS WRIGHT

GET YOUR FESTIVAL PASS NOW for Guaranteed Seating & Savings! over single concert prices @VSOrchestra

TICKETS: vancouversymphony.ca/NMF

MEDIA SPONSOR

604.876.3434

“G

VSO’s Christie Reside jumps between baroque music and the contemporary realm > BY ALEXAN DER VAR TY

n the surface, the main attraction of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s weekend concerts is the chance to hear Philippe Quint lead a select group of musicians through Antonio Vivaldi’s deathless The Four Seasons. Instrument fetishists will also be interested to know that the Russian-born conductor-performer should have his 1708 Antonio Stradivari violin, colloquially known as the “Ruby”, with him. For close followers of the VSO, however, there’s another good reason to attend, and that’s to witness principal flutist Christie Reside perform an unusual act of reverse alchemy when she joins Quint in Georg Philipp Telemann’s Concerto for Flute and Violin in E Minor. Reside, it seems, has yet to convert to the increasingly popular notion of using period instruments to play baroque music. “I would love to explore that,” she admits, referring to the wooden transverse f lute that was supplanted in the 1800s by louder and more mechanically sophisticated metal models. “I love the sound, and it would be interesting to really feel how those pieces sit on a completely different instrument. You’d have a better understanding of, I don’t know, maybe what the composers were going for. But, no: budgetwise, I’m limited in my instrument choice.” Interviewed by phone from her Hastings-Sunrise home, Reside says that, instead, she’s going to try to bring some of the sound of the wooden f lute into her performance, even if she’s using a modernday instrument. “It’s definitely a struggle on my modern f lute to get that crispness

Christie Reside aims to bring older sounds to her new metal flute.

and the exact sound that I want,” she allows. “That, and getting the more open, hollow tone colour; I mean, that’s what occupies almost all my time preparing early music. The technique on my contemporary f lute, it fits pretty well and it’s pretty simple, but with the sound and the articulation, it takes a lot of focus to really get those unique qualities.” To turn gold into wood, in other words. “That’s a good way of putting it,” she says, laughing. Although Reside is arguably best known as an interpreter of contemporary music, thanks to her long-time membership in the exceptional new-music sextet Standing Wave, this weekend’s performances

will allow her to show a different side of her craft. “I really like playing baroque music, as well as contemporary,” she explains. “I like these two sort of bookends on the repertoire of flute. We have a few classical pieces— those great Mozart concerti—but there’s this huge gap when flute wasn’t really being written for as a solo instrument, especially during the romantic period. I feel like both the baroque repertoire and the contemporary repertoire really show the instrument at its best. They’re two completely different styles, but they really show what the instrument can do.” Different they may be, but there’s another element that links Reside’s work with Standing Wave—which will play a program of 21st-century works as part of the VSO’s upcoming New Music Festival in January—to the performances she’ll give with Quint. In both settings, the musicians dispense with a conductor in favour of being led from within the ensemble. “It feels like Standing Wave minus however many hundred years,” she says of the typical baroque format. “And that’s my favourite way to play, of course, without conductor.…It’s a feeling that you’re just sort of tuned in to these musicians, and your focus is on them rather than everybody’s focus being directed to a conductor at the front. Yeah. It’s good!” The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra presents Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at the Chan Centre for the Pe r f o r m i n g A r t s o n Fr i d a y a n d Saturday (December 15 and 16) and a t N e w We s t m i n s t e r ’s M a s s e y Theatre at 2 p.m. on Sunday (December 17).

Brea Balletot Nutctrhes Ne h ack o e in e iL f

w ” r

VSO NEW MUSIC FESTIVAL

Four Seasons finds its flutist

– THE GLOBE AND MAIL

GohNutcracker.com

SWEET SEATS FROM

$28!

DECEMBER 14–19 PRINCIPAL DANCERS from the PACIFIC NORTHWEST BALLET ARTISTS from the NATIONAL BALLET OF CHINA

LIVE MUSIC performed by the VANCOUVER OPERA ORCHESTRA

THE CENTRE IN VANCOUVER: 777 HOMER STREET

GohNutcracker.com OFFICIAL HOTEL

PRODUCTION TITLE SPONSOR

*NOT INCLUSIVE OF SERVICE AND FACILITY FEES. CASTING SUBJECT TO CHANGES. PRESENTING HOST: GOH BALLET VANCOUVER SOCIETY

STRAIGHT WRAPPED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

SHOP CAPPELLERIA BERTACCHI HATS HANDMADE IN TUSCANY It’s Christmas time and a trilby or a cloche will cover your head with elegance and the unique Italian style of the Bertacchi family. If you are looking for a distinctive hat or an exclusive and stylish present, choosing Bertacchi will let you stand out among others.

FLORAL ANKLE BOOT The Carmen is a somewhat theatrical lace-up ankle boot that is draped in opulent elegance. Beautiful scalloped edge detailing and contrast stitching gives them a lavish feel while featured specialty textures set them apart from the crowd. $419CAD

www.italianhatcrafter.com 207 Abbott Street

www.whitecapsfc.com/holidaypack

www.fluevog.com 837 Granville Street 65 Water Street

ANGEL GO BOLD WITH DESIGUAL STYLE Shop Vancouver’s first Desigual boutique at Angel in Gastown. Desigual is from Barcelelona and the winter collection for men, women, and kids is 30-50% off.

www.angelvancouver.com 2 Powell Street

THE BEAUTIFUL GIFT Give the ones you love something beautiful by giving them the gift of soccer. With a Whitecaps FC Holiday Pack, get tickets to the 2018 home opener and the new holiday scarf starting at $70. or the Official Whitecaps FC Store in Gastown

375 Water Street

DURANT SESSIONS PRESENTS: ic! berlin Durant Sessions, Gastown’s premier destination for world class eyewear would like to introduce you to ic! berlin. Style and innovation converge with this German brand’s patented screwless hinge design and fashion forward frames, making them the perfect gift for the spectacle wearer in your life. $628

WALLACE HAMILTON Vancouver’s newest mens clothing shop has something special for every man in your life. Offering beautifully crafted Fair Isle socks, made in Germany organic cotton sweatshirts by Merz b. Schwanen and everything in between.

www.wallacehamilton.com 253 Columbia Street

www.durantsessions.com 315 W Cordova Street

20 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 21

ARTS

BRAMWELL TOVEY

STANDING WAVE

NICHOLAS WRIGHT

GET YOUR FESTIVAL PASS NOW for Guaranteed Seating & Savings! over single concert prices @VSOrchestra

TICKETS: vancouversymphony.ca/NMF

MEDIA SPONSOR

604.876.3434

“G

VSO’s Christie Reside jumps between baroque music and the contemporary realm > BY ALEXAN DER VAR TY

Christie Reside aims to bring older sounds to her new metal flute.

Brea Balletot Nutctrhes Ne h ack o e in e iL f

w ” r

VSO NEW MUSIC FESTIVAL

Four Seasons finds its flutist

– THE GLOBE AND MAIL

GohNutcracker.com

SWEET SEATS FROM

$28!

DECEMBER 14–19 PRINCIPAL DANCERS from the PACIFIC NORTHWEST BALLET ARTISTS from the NATIONAL BALLET OF CHINA

LIVE MUSIC performed by the VANCOUVER OPERA ORCHESTRA

THE CENTRE IN VANCOUVER: 777 HOMER STREET

GohNutcracker.com OFFICIAL HOTEL

PRODUCTION TITLE SPONSOR

*NOT INCLUSIVE OF SERVICE AND FACILITY FEES. CASTING SUBJECT TO CHANGES. PRESENTING HOST: GOH BALLET VANCOUVER SOCIETY

STRAIGHT WRAPPED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

www.italianhatcrafter.com 207 Abbott Street

www.whitecapsfc.com/holidaypack

www.fluevog.com 837 Granville Street 65 Water Street

ANGEL GO BOLD WITH DESIGUAL STYLE Shop Vancouver’s first Desigual boutique at Angel in Gastown. Desigual is from Barcelelona and the winter collection for men, women, and kids is 30-50% off.

www.angelvancouver.com 2 Powell Street

375 Water Street

www.wallacehamilton.com 253 Columbia Street

www.durantsessions.com 315 W Cordova Street

20 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 21

ARTS

Daisy Theatre favourite Esmé Massengill plays a Scrooge-like villainess in the adult marionette show Little Dickens. Alejandro Santiago photo.

Little Dickens creates a true vaudevillian treat T HEAT RE

DEC 22 SOLD OUT!

DEC 23 @ 7PM STILL AVAILABLE

LITTLE DICKENS: THE DAISY THEATRE PRESENTS A CHRISTMAS CAROL Created and performed by Ronnie Burkett. A Ronnie Burkett Theatre of Marionettes production. At the Cultch’s Historic Theatre on Tuesday, December 5. Continues until December 22

Puppeteer Ronnie Burkett’s Daisy Theatre—a collection of tiny vaudevillians who never do the same show twice—is back at the Cultch for the fifth straight year, but this time there’s a twist: Burkett is performing an adaptation of A Christmas Carol, and it’s definitely not for the whole family. That’s clear right from the curtain raiser: a gift-wrapped Miss Dolly Wiggler singing “Santa Claus Got Stuck in My Chimney” while peeling off successive layers of clothing and tossing them away, all with her exquisitely articulated marionette arms. Then we move backstage, where aging diva Esmé Massengill is abusing her long-suffering assistant, Cratchit, on Christmas Eve. Show biz provides some hilarious parallels to the world of Dickens’s story. Like Scrooge, Esmé receives a Christmas greeting from a nephew, Fred, an indie singer-songwriter, and a visit from representatives of a local charity representing underemployed actors. “Is there no dinner theatre? Is there no school touring?” Esmé retorts when asked for a donation. Also like Scrooge, Esmé is visited by three spirits (not the “vodka, gin, and brandy” she expects) who guide her through her past, present (including Daisy Theatre favourite Schnitzel, playing Tiny Tim), and future, whereby she finds a kind of redemption. Burkett’s unmatched talents as a puppet artist are on display not only in the Dickens story—just watch Esmé try to get comfortable on her chaise longue before the first supernatural visitation—but in the variety pieces he tucks around it: everything from a sing-along led by Mrs. Edna Rural in a light-up Christmas-tree frock to a retro crooner in a dishevelled tuxedo who sings “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” with his hand casually tucked in his pocket. Burkett’s attention to detail in the puppets’ costumes, props, and gestures is a constant source of wonder and delight. This show was created especially for the Cultch, and on opening night, Burkett confessed to being nervous. He needn’t be. Making it up on the fly is part of what the Daisy Theatre is all about. The Dickens story provides a solid platform for Burkett’s highstrung irreverence, but it also has a core of sweetness and generosity

22 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

that makes this show a genuine gift. Enjoy it, Vancouver.

> KATHLEEN OLIVER

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Adapted by Michael Shamata from the novella by Charles Dickens. Directed by Rachel Peake. At the Gateway Theatre on Friday, December 8. Continues until December 24

It’s amazing how culturally

2 present A Christmas Carol re-

mains. From Canadian Tire ads to Bill Murray movies, Charles Dickens’s story of greed and redemption feels baked into our DNA. I’m an aficionado of neither Christmas nor Dickens, but I was struck by how familiar the plot and dialogue felt. The script is adapted from the Dickens novella by Michael Shamata, artistic director of Victoria’s Belfry Theatre. Ebenezer Scrooge (Russell Roberts) is a mean and miserly onepercenter, “as solitary as an oyster”. On Christmas Eve, he’s visited by the ghost of his deceased business partner (Allan Morgan), who warns him against his tightfisted, maleficent ways. He’s then given the “Ebenezer, this is your life” treatment. Three spirits take him on a spooky tour of his past, present, and future. In modern terms, they’re creepy life coaches setting Scrooge on a new journey. A Christmas Carol seems like a somewhat thankless task for directors. Unlike, say, Shakespeare, it resists interpretation. As at a Christmas panto, the audience wants to check off all the familiar moments, from Jacob Marley’s rattling chains to the eerie kids emerging from the robes of the Ghost of Christmas Present. Plus, the story’s structure fights against a director’s best intentions. Ebenezer Scrooge is reduced to an inert observer for most of the play, affected by but unable to affect the play’s action until the denouement. Yet director Rachel Peake, aided by Shamata’s brisk adaptation, keeps things ticking along. It’s a very musical show, with the performers contributing both songs and an atmospheric score from the upstage corners. Drew Facey’s set is a cracked-open birdcage, offering a tidy, flexible playing space for Scrooge to peer into. There are some fun theatrical tricks in the show, from the gantry Roberts and Morgan cruise around on to an upstage portal that resizes from doorway to open vista with a satisfying smoothness. The performances are on the hammy side, but isn’t that what this play—part campy ghost story, part morality tale—demands? Roberts is a very convincing Scrooge, and Adam Olgui and Amanda Testini see page 24

DECEMBER 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 23

A Christmas Carol ’s Russell Roberts (pictured with Josh Chambers) makes a convincing Scrooge in a show with all the eerie must-haves. David Cooper photo.

A Christmas Carol

from page 22

make the most of their time on-stage in multiple roles. Those familiar with the story will know that, in the end, the Cratchit family enjoys a serious upgrade on its Christmas dinner. If you’re in the mood for traditional holiday fare, enjoy a free-range goose from Whole Foods and then come to A Christmas Carol at the Gateway Theatre. You won’t be disappointed.

> DARREN BAREFOOT

THE REALISTIC JONESES By Will Eno. A Mint Collective production. At the Cultch’s Vancity Culture Lab on Thursday, December 7. Continues until December 17

The Realistic Joneses is a fas-

2 cinating script, but its virtues

are obscured by some key choices in this production. Bob and Jennifer live in a small town; near the start of the play, they meet John and Pony, a younger couple who have moved in next door. Before long we learn that both men have a rare degenerative neurological disease, but while Jennifer is a solicitous—and exhausted—caregiver to Bob, John has kept his illness a secret from Pony. The couples’ experiences become increasingly entangled in this meditation on intimacy, fear, and loss. The apparently fictional HarrimanLevy Syndrome has an impact on its sufferers’ ability to use language, so it’s fitting—or ironic—that American playwright Will Eno has written a script so rich in wordplay. The dialogue is always slightly off-kilter, filled with non sequiturs and qualifiers. “You don’t need to tell the truth; just don’t lie,” says one character in an

24 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

intimate moment, and another makes an observation that could describe much of the script: “It seems like we don’t ever talk. It’s like we’re just throwing words at each other.” Sometimes those words are “realistic”, like the laundry list of symptoms and treatments that Jennifer shares with John when confiding about her husband’s illness. But if realism is what this play is going for, the casting poses some challenges. (There is no director listed in the program; Renée Iaci is credited as directorial consultant, but did not cast the roles.) Joan Bryans is a terrifically sympathetic Jennifer, and her comic timing gives full play to Eno’s odd one-liners. Charles Siegel also gives a nuanced performance as Bob. But these actors are at least a generation older than the neighbours, which makes the flirtations that begin to emerge a very tough sell; the chemistry is simply not there. There are challenges with the younger characters, too. In the early going, Peter Wilson’s John feels false, but as the evening settles in, we begin to see his relentless banter as a defence against terrifying vulnerability. Pony is a tough character to make sense of—“I don’t have an attention span,” she claims—and Kelly Sheridan’s portrayal lacks the sense of a coherent personality behind Pony’s scattered outpourings. Vanka Salim’s set and lighting— especially in a scene in which John and Bob play with triggering the motion-sensor lights—work together with Zakk Harris’s bucolic sound design to create a peaceful atmosphere. It’s only when we peel back the layers that the sober truths are revealed. But I was perplexed more often than I was moved by this production. > KATHLEEN OLIVER

THE ETERNAL TIDES. ORIGINAL PHOTO: CHIN CHENG-TSAI

A BAROQUE CHRISTMAS ED

•

SIC

•

FILM

Bach and More for Christmas

John William Trotter

T H E AT R E

8pm SATURDAY DECEMBER 16, 2017

•

DA N

•

L MU

The Orpheum

with John William Trotter | Vancouver Chamber Choir Pacifica Singers | Vancouver Youth Choir Vancouver Chamber Orchestra The great Baroque composers knew how to write music that literally dances with joy. Make it a party – meet the Vancouver Chamber Choir family of choirs, orchestra and soloists in the Orpheum for a concert which celebrates the Christmas season like no other. Our guest conductor is John William Trotter, the Choir’s former Associate Conductor, who will lead the various forces in music of Bach, Vivaldi and carols for all to sing.

1.855.985.ARTS(2787) vancouverchamberchoir.com

CHINA BROADCASTING FILM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONDUCTOR PANG KA PANG

A M E CIN ONCERT IN C RELIVE THE MAGIC OF THE MOVIES WITH LIVE ORCHESTRAL ACCOMPANIMENT FEATURED FILMS: BRAVEHEART CASABLANCA CHINESE MOVIE MUSIC COLLECTION JURASSIC WORLD LEGENDS OF THE FALL PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN AND MANY MORE!

Tickets & passes on sale now!

THE VSO SAMPLER PACK:

THE PERFECT HOLIDAY $ GIFT!

4 TICKETS FOR AS LOW AS

BRAMWELL TOVEY WITH THE VSO

THE VSO SAMPLER PACK: a customizable 4-ticket gift package. Choose from a wide range of specially-selected concerts, from great Classical masterpieces to Symphony Pops. This year, go beyond gifts and treat the people on your list to a live concert experience they will always remember.

JANUARY 12, 2018

ORPHEUM THEATRE

TICKETS FROM $29 | TICKETSTONIGHT.CA MEDIA SPONSOR

@VSOrchestra

vancouversymphony.ca/sampler

604.876.3434

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 25

2017-18 60TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

T! U O SOLD

O ANN JUST

UNC

ED!

Paula Kremer, Artistic Director

CHRISTMAS REPRISE XV Saturday, December 23, 2017 2pm Holy Rosary Cathedral 646 Richards St. Vancouver

For more information and tickets visit vancouvercantatasingers.com or call 604-730-8856

CHRISTMAS WITH

CHOR LEONI

Laurie Anderson All the Things I Lost in the Flood

APR 23 2018 / 8PM I CHAN CENTRE AT UBC Using spoken word, video, live music, and electronics, multimedia artist Laurie Anderson explores the power and perils of storytelling in a stunning presentation following the release of her new book.

chancentre.com

December 15 & 18 ST. ANDREW’S-WESLEY UNITED CHURCH, VANCOUVER | 4:30 PM & 8 PM

chorleoni.org 1.877.840.0457

Erick Lichte

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

A TIMELESS CLASSIC! FEATURING LIVE MUSIC & SEASONAL CAROLS

Russell Roberts Photo: David Cooper

CHARLES DICKENS MICHAEL SHAMATA DIRECTED BY RACHEL PEAKE BY

ADAPTED BY

MAINSTAGE | DECEMBER 7 – 24, 2017 - TICKETS AND INFORMATION GatewayTheatre.com | (604) 270-1812 GatewayTheatreBC

@Gateway_Theatre MEDIA SPONSOR

26 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

Gateway_Theatre

on the poem by Pushkin and the opera by Tchaikovsky. To Dec 31, Granville Island Stage (1585 Johnston, Granville Island). Info www.artsclub.com/.

ALMOST, MAINE Pacific Theatre presents director Kaitlin Williams’s play about the joys and perils of romance, set in a small town in Maine. To Dec 16, 8 pm, Pacific Theatre (1440 W. 12th). Tix $20-36.50, info www.pacifictheatre.org/.

ar ts/ timeout

don’t miss out! For up-to-the-minute, searchable Arts Time Out listings, visit

www.straight.com

THEATRE DANCE MUSIC COMEDY ET CETERA GALLERIES MUSEUMS

< < < < < < <

THEATRE 2ONGOING THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS The Arts Club Theatre Company presents Stacey Kaser and Alison Kelly’s play about a perfectionist who’s desperately holding fast to her Christmas traditions. To Dec 24, Goldcorp Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre (162 W. 1st). Info www.artsclub.com/. ONEGIN The Arts Club Theatre Company presents Amiel Gladstone and Veda Hille’s musical about a dissipated rogue whose romantic charms stir the passions of the residents of a country estate. Based

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE Carousel Theatre for Young People presents Joseph Robinette’s adaptation of the C.S. Lewis book about four siblings who step through a wardrobe into an enchanted land. To Jan 6, Waterfront Theatre (1412 Cartwright St., Granville Island). Tix $35/29/18, info www.carouseltheatre.ca/. EAST VAN PANTO: SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES Theatre Replacement’s kid-friendly production sees the title character flee the wicked Queen of North Vancouver across the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge, landing at the PNE. To Jan 6, York Theatre (639 Commercial). Tix from $22, info www. thecultch.com/events/east-van-pantosnow-white-seven-dwarves/. LITTLE DICKENS The Daisy Theatre presents Ronnie Burkett’s take on Charles Dickens’s holiday classic A Christmas Carol. To Dec 22, The Cultch (1895 Venables). Tix $22-69, info www.thecultch. com/events/little-dickens-daisy-theatre/.

BAH HUMBUG! Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol comes to life in modernday East Vancouver under the direction of James Fagan Tait. Stars musician and storyteller Jim Byrnes. To Dec 16, SFU Goldcorp Centre for the Arts (149 W. Hastings). Info www.sfuwoodwards.ca/. THE REALISTIC JONESES Will Eno’s play sees a man and a woman and their neighbours face life-altering problems. To Dec 17, Vancity Culture Lab (the Cultch, 1895 Venables). Tix $22-30 (plus service charges and fees), info tickets.thecultch.com/. DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST The Arts Club Theatre Company presents a stage adaptation of the Academy Award–winning animated film. Includes music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, and book by Linda Woolverton. To Jan 13, Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (2750 Granville). Info www.artsclub.com/. A CHRISTMAS CAROL The Gateway Theatre presents a stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic tale of a miser who changes his ways after he is visited by ghosts. To Dec 24, 8 pm, Gateway Theatre (6500 Gilbert Rd., Richmond). Info www.gatewaytheatre.com/. THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Red Giant Theatre Society presents Anthony Neilson’s holiday play about an elf who lands in a warehouse of cheap and stolen toys. To Dec 17, 8-9 pm, GO Studios (210-112 E. 3rd ). Tix $15, info redgianttheatre.bpt.me.

DANCE 2THIS WEEK THE NUTCRACKER Goh Ballet presents the classic holiday ballet about a young

“A JEWEL OF A PERFORMANCE” —VANCOUVER OBSERVER

see next page

Tickets from $25 Family Packs Available

Ballet BC presents Alberta Ballet

The Nutcracker Choreography Edmund Stripe | Composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Featuring Live Music by The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra

Discover Profound Wisdom & Divine Beauty

December 28 29 30 | 7:30pm December 29 30 | 2pm Queen Elizabeth Theatre | balletbc.com

SUPPORT FOR BALLET BC HAS BEEN GENEROUSLY L PROVIDED BY

5,000 Years of Civilization Reborn

PHOTO BY DARREN MAKOIVICHUK.

! FT AST E L S GF W IN HO GO S E Y 4 AR L S ON ET CK TI STARR ING

JIM B

YRN

ES CELE BR MUSIC ATED STOR IAN & YTELL ER

BAH HUMBUG! An Eastside Christmas Carol directed by Jessie Award-winner James Fagan Tait DECEMBER 7 – 16 EVENINGS & MATINEES

SFU’S GOLDCORP CENTRE FOR THE ARTS 149 W. HASTINGS ST, VANCOUVER

SFUWOODWARDS.CA Image Richard Tetrault, Alley Variation #3, woodcut and metal print 2012, with photo of Jim Byrnes by David Cooper.

“Exquisitely beautiful. An extraordinary experience for us and the children.” —Cate Blanchett, Academy Award–winning actress

“I have reviewed about 4,000 shows since 1942, none can compare to what I saw tonight.” —Richard Connema, renowned Broadway critic

“Mesmerizing! Reclaiming the divinely inspired cultural heritage of China … I encourage everyone to see and all of us to learn from.” —Donna Karan, fashion designer and creator of DKNY The Holiday Gift Filled with Hope & Inspiration

All-New 2018 Program from New York with Live Orchestra Queen Elizabeth Theatre | March 23–25 ShenYun.com/Van | 888-974-3698

Sold Out Across North America Last Season. Secure Best Seats Now!

Promo :

SY18VEB

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 27

Arts time out

from previous page

girl who goes on a magical journey with an enchanted nutcracker. Includes principal dancers from the Pacific Northwest Ballet, artists from the National Ballet of Canada, and music by the Vancouver Opera Orchestra. Dec 14-19, The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts (777 Homer). Info www.gohnutcracker.com/.

straight choices

MUSIC MUSIC FOR THE WINTER SOLSTICE Music on Main presents a performance by Nicole LizÃ©e, Rachel Kiyo Iwaasa, Wallgrin, and Carman J. Price. Dec 14, 15, 7-10 pm, Heritage Hall (3102 Main). Tix $39/15, info www.musiconmain.ca/concerts/2017music-for-the-winter-solstice/.

1660 EAST BROADWAY @ COMMERCIAL MEDIA SPONSOR

NOW PLAYING!

n d

Kitty Nights West Presents PEE-WEE'S CHRISTMAS BURLESQUE SPECIAL SP Pee-Wee KDV D VSHFLDO &KULVWPDV :LVK %XW ZLOO LW JHW KLP LQWR %,* WURXEOH" :KR ZLOO VKRZ XS DW 7KH UDQ 3OD\KRXVH IRU D KROLGD\ YLVLW" :KDW V WRGD\ V 6HFUHW :RUG" :LOO Pee-Wee's 6SHFLDO :LVK EH JUDQWHG" $QVZHUV WR DOO WKHVH TXHVWLRQV DQG PRUH DZDLW DV \RX VSHQG WKH KROLGD\V ZLWK DOO \RXU 3OD\KRXVH SDOV RXVH SDOVO LQ D +ROLGD\ %XUOHVTXH 6KRZ OLNH QR RWKHU $OVR 'HFHPEHU DW SP EDWARD SCISSORHANDS )ULGD\ /DWH 1LJKW 0RYLH SP Johnny Depp DQG Winona nona Ryder PDNH DOO NLQGV RI PRYLH PDJLF LQ Tim Burton's EHORYHG PRGHUQ IDLU\WDOH D KROLGD\ FODVVLF D\ FODVVLF

DECEMBER 18

JANE SP 'UDZLQJ IURP RYHU KRXUV RI QHYHU EHIRUH VHHQ IRRWDJH WKDW KDV EHHQ WXFNHG DZD\ LQ WKH 1DWLRQDO *HRJUDSKLF DUFKLYHV IRU RYHU ILYH GHFDGHV DFFODLPHG GLUHFWRU Brett Morgen &REDLQ 0RQWDJH RI +HFN RIIHUV RQH RI Â¶V PRVW FRPSHOOLQJ GRFXPHQWDULHV ZLWK WKLV SURILOH ILOH RI OHJHQGDU\ SULPDWRORJLVW Jane Goodall $OVR 'HF DW SP The Geekenders Presents A HARRY POTTER CHRISTMAS BURLESQUE SP The P The Geekenders DUH EDFN ZLWK HYHQ PRUH Harry Potter PDJLF DQG WKLV WLPH LW V Christmas mas SDFNHG :HDU \RXU KRXVH FRORXUV ZLWK SULGH DQG MRLQ LQ D VLOO\ VH[\ KROLGD\ FHOHEUDWLRQ OLNH QR RWKHU SDFNHG ZLWK ZLWFKHV ZL]DUGV DQG PDJLFDO FUHDWXUHV 7LFNHWV JRLQJ IDVW THE 19TH ANNUAL ANIMATION SHOW OF SHOWS SP Ron Diamond's ZRQGHUIXOO\ FXUDWHG $QLPDWLRQ 6KRZ RI 6KRZV UHWXUQV WR WKH 5LR ZLWK DQ HFOHFWLF PL[ RI H[FHSWLRQDO DQG LQVSLULQJ DQLPDWHG VKRUWV IURP DURXQG WKH JOREH SUHVHQWLQJ FRPSHOOLQJ LGHDV DERXW RXU SODFH LQ VRFLHW\ DQG KRZ ZH DOO ILW LQ )XQQ\ PRYLQJ HQJDJLQJ DQG WKRXJKW SURYRNLQJ WKLV FROOHFWLRQ KDV VRPHWKLQJ IRU HYHU\RQH .LGV ZHOFRPH MY FRIEND DAHMER SP 7XUQV John Backderfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FHOHEUDWHG ERRN LQWR DQ DEVRUELQJ GUDPDWL]HG SRUWUDLW RI FDVXDO FUXHOW\ DQG WHHQDJH GHVSHUDWLRQ HTXDO SDUWV 7KH 9LUJLQ 6XLFLGHV Â¶DQG 7KH 7H[DV &KDLQ 6DZ 0DVVDFUH Â´ Time Out $OVR 'HF SP

DEC 19

LOVING VINCENT SP Â³,W LV D SKHQRPHQDO WHFKQLFDO DFFRPSOLVKPHQW HOHYDWHG WR GD]]OLQJ KHLJKWV E\ D VWXQQLQJ FDVW JRUJHRXV VFRUH DQG WRXFKLQJ VWRU\ WKDW XQOHDVKHV WKH DUWLVW LQVLGH XV DOO Â´ Film Inquiry

How in the Holidays! WOLFCOP SP ANOTHER WOLFCOP SP Hosted by Howling DYH DO GOWAN! 7KLV RQH V IRU DOO \RX VWUDQJH DQLPDOV RXW WKHUH *HW UHDG\ IRU D QLJKW WKDW ZLOO OHDYH DOO :ROIFRS S \RXU PRRQOLJKW GHVLUHV FRPSOHWHO\ VDWLVILHG D GRXEOH GRVH RI WKH KLODULRXV KRUURU FRPHG\ :ROIFRS PXVLF VSHFLDO VXUSULVH JXHVWV DQG KROLGD\ FKHHU hosted by iconic Canadian rock superstar erstar GOWAN <HV *2:$1 $W WKH 5LR )RU UHDOV

DEC 20

DEC 16

NO DRESS REHEARSAL A Tribute to Gord Downie SP 0XVLF EULQJV SHRSOH WRJHWKHU 6R P\ IXQFWLRQ LQ DQ\WKLQJ , GR LV WR KHOS EULQJ SHRSOH FORVHU LQ Gord Downie $ UHPDUNDEOH URVWHU RI VRPH RI 9DQFRXYHU V ILQHVW WDOHQWV LQFOXGLQJ KRVW C.R. Avery, Bend Sinister's Dan Moxon, TJ Dawe, the Love Medicine Powwow Drum Singers DQG PRUH FHOHEUDWH &DQDGDÂ¶V URFN SRHW OHJHQG

DECEMBER 17

DEC 14

2017

DECEMBER 15

ADVANCE TICKETS AT WWW.RIOTHEATRETICKETS.CA

2 2

The Fictionals Comedy Co. Presents IMPROV AGAINST HUMANITY Cards Against Vancouver couver Launch SP 7KH KRUULEOH Christmas FRPHG\ SUHVHQW \RXÂ¶YH EHHQ ZDLWLQJ IRU KDV DUULYHG &RPH VHH WKH WKH ORQJ DZDLWHG &DUGV $JDLQVW 9DQFRXYHU WULEXWH GHFN IHDWXULQJ VXEPLVVLRQV IURP #IAHATRIO IDQV LQ 9DQFLW\ DQG EH\RQG EURXJKW WR OLIH RQVWDJH Plus sweet prizes, surprises, and more. 2K WKH KXPDQLW\

CHRISTMAS WITH CHOR LEONI Local menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choir Chor Leoni presents its annual holiday concert, with music by Tori Amos, Sufjan Stevens, Ron Sexsmith, Randall Thompson, and Veljo Tormis, as well as sing-along carols. Dec 15, 4:30 pm; Dec 15, 8 pm; Dec 18, 4:30 pm, St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Wesley United Church (1022 Nelson). Tix $10-45, info www.chor leoni.org/. VIVALDIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FOUR SEASONS Violinist/ leader Philippe Quint, flutist Christie Reside, and the VSO perform works by Hasse, Telemann, Vivaldi, and Geminiani/ Corelli. Dec 15-16, 8 pm, Chan Centre for the Performing Arts (6265 Crescent Rd., UBC). The concert also runs Dec 17, 2 pm, at the Massey Theatre, info www.vancou versymphony.ca/. NATIVITÃ&#x2030;: A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT Musica intima presents a holiday concert of songs from its award-winning album NativitÃ©. Dec 16, 2 pm, Brentwood Presbyterian Church (1600 Delta Ave., Burnaby). The concert also runs Dec 17, 3 pm, at St. Philipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anglican Church (3737 W. 27th). Tix $30/25/20, info www.musica intima.org/. WINTER HARP Harps, flute, medieval instruments, songs, stories, and a breathtaking presentation combine for a magical concert celebration of the Christmas season. Dec 16, 7:30 pm, St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Wesley United Church (1022 Nelson). Tix $25-44.75 at Tickets Tonight, info www.winterharp.com/.

2ONGOING 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 and 10:30 pm. Cover $8 Tue, $10 Wed, $15 Thu, $18 Fri, $20 Sat. 2CHRIS LOCKE Dec 14-16 2KEVIN BANNER Dec 21-23 YUK YUKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COMEDY CLUB 2837 Cambie, 604-696-9857, www.yukyuks.com/vancou ver/. Comedy club with Top Talent Tue at 8 pm, amateur night Wed at 8 pm, and professional headliners Thu-Fri at 8 pm and Sat at 7 and 9:30 pm. Cover Tue $10, Wed $7, Thu $10, and Fri-Sat $20. 2CEDRIC NEWMAN Dec 14-16 2JANE STANTON Dec 22-23 2KATHLEEN MCGEE Dec 29-30

2THIS WEEK

ENSEMBLE MADE IN CANADA Music in the Morning presents the Canadian piano quartet. Dec 15, 10:30-11:30 am, West Vancouver United Church (2062 Esquimalt). Tix $38/35/17, info www.musicinthemorn ing.org/.

COMEDY

BALLET BEAUTY Our own, homegrown Goh Ballet Nutcracker has a lot of serious attributes going for it. The lush sets span sleighs in sparkling falling snow, a gigantic chandelier, and a towering tannenbaum; Peter Ilich Tchaikovskyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s score is performed live by the Vancouver Opera Orchestra; and top dancers Jerome Tisserand and Elizabeth Murphy, from the Pacific Northwest Ballet, bring their considerable technical skill to the Cavalier Prince and the Sugar Plum Fairy. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the fun, kid-friendly moments that set it apart, from tiny gymnasts tumbling out from under a giant skirt to mice that throw big hunks of cheese during the battle scene. Catch it Thursday to Tuesday (December 14 to 19) at the Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts. A SINFONIA FAMILY CHRISTMAS Lions Gate Sinfonia presents excerpts from Handelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Messiah and seasonal selections. Dec 16, 7:30 pm, Centennial Theatre (2300 Lonsdale Ave.). Tix $39/35/18/12, info www.lionsgatesinfonia.com/. A BAROQUE CHRISTMAS: BACH AND MORE FOR CHRISTMAS The Vancouver Chamber Choir and guest conductor John William Trotter present an evening of carols and music by Bach and Vivaldi. Dec 16, 8-10 pm, Orpheum Theatre (601 Smithe). Tix $21-55 at www.ticketmaster. ca/, info www.vancouverchamberchoir. com/event/a-baroque-christmas/.

VANCOUVER THEATRESPORTS LEAGUE Some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most daring and innovative improv. Christmas Queen 4: Secret Santa (Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, and Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 2 pm); Christmas Queen Drag Race (Sat, 11:15 pm); Ok Tinder (Fri, 11:15 pm); TheatreSports (Tue, 7:30 pm; Wed, 9:15 pm; Fri and Sat, 9:30 pm). Dec 13-20, The Improv Centre (1502 Duranleau, Granville Island). Info www.vtsl.com/.

2THIS WEEK CHRISTMAS QUEEN 4: SECRET SANTA The Vancouver TheatreSports League presents a holiday-themed comedy show that sees the Queen and Santa exchange bodies in a Freaky Fridayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;style magical sleight of hand. To Dec 23, The Improv Centre (1502 Duranleau, Granville Island). Info www.vtsl.com/. CEDRIC NEWMAN Jamaican-born, Montreal-bred standup comedian performs a solo show. Dec 14-16, Yuk Yukâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Comedy Club (2837 Cambie). Tix $19.05/9.53, info www.yukyuks.com/ vancouver/. CHRIS LOCKE Canadian standup comedian performs a solo show. Dec 14-16, The Comedy MIX (1015 Burrard). Tix $20/18/15, info www.thecomedymix.com/.

ET CETERA 2THIS WEEK FIGHT FOR BEAUTY Exhibition features public art projects undertaken with worldclass creatives, architecture from architects who are artists in their own right, and fashion by some of the greatest designers in recent history. To Dec 17, Fairmont Pacific Rim (1038 Canada Place). Free admission, info www.fightforbeauty.ca/. KURIOS: CABINET OF CURIOSITIES Cirque du Soleil presents a new production that takes you into the curio cabinet of an ambitious inventor who defies the laws of time, space, and dimension in order to reinvent everything around him. To Dec 31, Concord Pacific Place (88 Pacific). Tix from $49, info www.cirquedusoleil.com/kurios/. VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET Yuletide celebration features more than 75 vendor huts, authentic German food and drink, a carousel, a 30-foot-tall walk-in Christmas tree, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. To Dec 24, Jack Poole Plaza (1055 Canada Place). Tix $10/9/5/kids under six free, info www.vancouverchristmasmarket.com/. CAG BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR: JAS LALLY Join CAG assistant curator Jas Lally for a free behind-the-scenes tour of the current exhibitions. Dec 14, 6-7 pm, Contemporary Art Gallery (555 Nelson). Free, info www.contemporaryartgallery. ca/events/behind-scenes-tour-jas-lally/. PEE-WEEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BURLESQUE CHRISTMAS SPECIAL! Kitty Nights presents a holiday burlesque show with a Pee-wee theme. Dec 15-16, 8-11:30 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $25/20, info www.kitty nights.com/peewee.html. A HARRY POTTER CHRISTMAS BURLESQUE The Geekenders present a burlesque tribute to Harry Potter. Dec 17, doors 7 pm, show 8 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $25/20, info www.riotheatre.ca/.

DEC 21 DECEMBER 22 DEC

GALLERIES LOVING VINCENT SP $OVR 'HF DW SP LOVE ACTUALLY SP 7R PH \RX DUH SHUIHFW $ VWDU VWXGGHG FDVW Hugh Grant, Emma maa Thompson, Alan Rickman, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightley, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Colin in Firth DQG Laura Linney VKLQH LQ QLQH KLODULRXV VZHHW DQG FKDUPLQJ LQWHUWZLQHG VWRULHV H[DPLQLQJ WKH L FRPSOH[LWLHV RI WKH KROLGD\V PRGHUQ OLIH DQG WKH RQH HPRWLRQ WKDW FRQQHFWV XV DOO love THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER SP &RQWLQXHV GLUHFWRU <RUJRV /DQWKLPRVÂµ >7KH /REVWHU@ VWXEERUQO\ LGLRV\QFUDWLF VWUHDN Â² DQG GHPRQVWUDWHV DJDLQ WKDW KLV LV D WDOHQW QRW WR EH LJQRUHG Â´ Rotten Tomatoes :LWK Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman. DIE HARD SP <LSSHH \L \D\ PRWKHUIXGJHU 6HQG \RXU PRYLH ORYLQJ VHOI LQWR Christmas s RYHUGULYH ZLWK ZKDW LV KDQGV GRZQ RQH RI WKH DEVROXWH ELJJHVW EDGGHVW PRWKHUIXGJLQJ HGJH RI GJH RI RII \RXU VHDW ELJ VFUHHQ WKULOO ULGHV HYHU $ SHUIHFW )ULGD\ /DWH 1LJKW 0RYLH :LWK Bruce Willis, is, Alan Rickman DQG Bonnie Bedelia. Al SEE WWW.RIOTHEATRE.CA FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS & UPDATED CALENDAR SE ENDAR R

EDUCATION 2017 PRINT & DIGITAL special issues, branded content, social media & more.

Call or email: 604.730.7020 | sales@straight.com 28 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 / 2017

VANCOUVER ART GALLERY 750 Hornby, 604-662-4719, www.vanartgallery. bc.ca/. 2ENTANGLED: TWO VIEWS ON CONTEMPORARY CANADIAN PAINTING (exhibition offers insight into two distinctly different modes of painting that have come to dominate contemporary painting in Canada) to Jan 1

MUSEUMS THE MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY AT UBC 6393 NW Marine Drive, 604-822-5087, www.moa.ubc.ca/. 2AMAZONIA: THE RIGHTS OF NATURE (exhibition features Amazonian basketry, textiles, carvings, feather works, and ceramics both of everyday and of ceremonial use, representing Indigenous, Maroon, and white-settler communities) to Jan 28

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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it into the paper due to space constraints will appear on the website.

MOVIES REVIEWS THE SHAPE OF WATER Starring Sally Hawkins. In English and Russian, with English subtitles. Rated 14A

Guillermo del Toro’s latest is a virtuosic love

2 letter to classic cinema of multiple eras and genres. It’s a shame, then, that it’s so lacking in substance and coherent purpose. U.K. great Sally Hawkins, whose singsong voice is one of her defining characteristics, is terrific as Elisa, a mute (not deaf) woman who works as a cleaner at a government installation in an unnamed city during an unspecified moment of the Cold War. Judging from the prevalence of automobile fins and talking-horse-type sitcoms on the boob tube, it’s the start of the ’60s, although the soundtrack music leans toward the ’30s. For a top-secret bunker, Elisa’s workplace sure is awash with low-security employees, including our hero’s protective pal Zelda, played by Octavia Spencer, who must be tired of being the sassy help by now. Elisa lives in a beautifully crumbling art-

Stand by your aquaman Sally Hawkins finds love with the Creature From the Black-Ops Lagoon in the Cold War–era fantasy The Shape of Water deco building, over a gorgeous movie palace that shows Bible epics and sci-fi specials to hardly any customers. (The Shape of Water was shot in Toronto, with Massey Hall and the Elgin Theatre heavily featured.) Her next-door neighbour is a reclusive commercial illustrator (Richard Jenkins, perfect at his many throwaway quips) who seems to have been sidelined for being gay. Thus, we’re handed a coterie of marginalized people even before the introduction of a marvellously strange water creature, probably hailing from a black lagoon. If Doug Jones’s lithe amphibian presence reminds you of the Hellboy movies, that’s because he played a similarly aquatic entity in that del Toro series. And, as in Pan’s Labyrinth, there is a fascistic tormenter here, in the form of Michael Shannon’s cruel enforcer, who of course thinks the thing (as in Howard Hawks’s The Thing) would serve science and the USA better on the operating table. An in-house scientist, played by Michael Stuhlbarg, sometimes speaking f luent Russian (hint, hint), disagrees. So does Elisa, who views the blue-green-algae dude as an objet d’amour. This is where the movie goes weird, since its storybook imagery and cartoon characters set this up as a children’s tale. You don’t expect nudity and extreme violence after watching a Shirley Temple and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson scene in the background. That dichotomy is del Toro’s specialty, perhaps, but it bends this Water too far out of shape. > KEN EISNER

THE OTHER SIDE OF HOPE Starring Sherwan Haji. In Finnish, English, and Arabic, with English subtitles. Rated PG

Finnish director Aki Kaurismäki is a dead-

2 pan stylist often compared to Jim Jarmusch,

but hints of David Lynch and Quentin Tarantino drift into this beautifully composed comedy, which manages to hit raw nerves on the refugee crisis in northern Europe while poking fun at Scandinavian reserve. Picking up themes suggested by his last effort, Le Havre—in which an African refugee bonds with an old shoeshiner in that French port city—this darkly colourful tale centres on one Syrian escapee (compelling first-timer Sherwan Haji) who washes up in Helsinki after an almost accidental sea voyage. Life in a detention centre, even one run by placid Scandinavians, is no bowl of hummus. Khaled’s journey continues to go awry, and not in the expected ways. For him, salvation comes in the form of the film’s other subject, an aging gambler named Wikström (Kaurismäki regular Sakari Kuosmanen), who abruptly leaves his hard-drinking wife and boring job and impetuously purchases a restaurant in which the employees are just as unpromising as the menu. Basically, they’re a bunch of weirdos and dead-enders, but are impressed by Wikström’s fortitude, and eventually, when the two main stories meet up, supportive of his adoption of Khaled as an “illegal” who needs friendship, and food. The budding restaurateur stands as an oldschool bulwark against skinheads, reactionaries, and people with no sense of humour. He also helps Khaled search for his sister, the only other family survivor of a massacre from above in their hometown of Aleppo. With its gloomy colours and homely fluorescent lighting, the movie constantly shifts between gentle, low-key humour and more

Military scientists want to vivisect a strange being from the murky depths in The Shape of Water, but they have to get past Richard Jenkins and Sally Hawkins first.

threatening intrusions. That shouldn’t work, but it does. Kaurismäki seems to be saying, in three languages, “This is the world today; look how beautifully ugly it is!” > KEN EISNER

REBELS ON POINTE A documentary by Bobbi Jo Hart. Rating unavailable

A perfect row of frothy-white-tutu-clad baller-

2 inas tippy-toes across the stage, but when one

Elio, who, from his initial responses, seems not to have particularly noticed other guys in that way. The lad has a sort-of girlfriend (Esther Garrel, daughter of French director Philippe Garrel) visiting from Paris, but his interest wanes as he gets caught up in the whirlwind comings and goings of Oliver—who really doesn’t get a lot of work done that swoonworthy summer. Screenwriter James Ivory, now almost 90, tackled more subdued versions of these themes, often in sun-dappled period Italy, during his fabled partnership with the late Ismail Merchant (in Maurice and Room With a View, for example). He adapted Egyptian American André Aciman’s 2007 novel, imposing an elegant structure on the tale. But the polyglot drama is dominated by director Luca Guadagnino, himself of both Italian and Ethiopian extraction. As in his previous efforts, I Am Love and A Bigger Splash, actors of decidedly different backgrounds and styles are subordinated to Guadagnino’s lyrical excesses, which can alternate wildly between the poetically incisive and the indulgently preposterous. By the end of this 132-minute journey, I had grown somewhat weary of the tug of war between the two leads, despite disarming efforts from Hammer and Chalamet. And, more crucially, had started to wonder if the specifics—their Jewishness, intellectual pursuits, and location in place and time—were truly that central to the story. The movie is very beautiful, no doubt, but it quietly bullies you into believing in its grandiosity.

swings into an arabesque, she knocks over a fellow swan with the force of a heavyweight kickboxer. To anyone who’s ever caught Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo when the all-male drag troupe has visited Vancouver, the scene from Rebels on Pointe will be familiar—a cheeky mix of perfect technical execution and high camp. And those fans are the ideal target market for this loving documentary, which digs—albeit not too deeply—into the history and artistry of the troupe. The film also serves as a larger celebration of how far not only the company, but also society, has come. “The Trocks”, as they are lovingly known, had their start amid the 1970s gay-rights movement, when their makeshift Meatpacking District digs were a safe place for boys who had grown up chastised for wanting to don pink pointe shoes. The company survived, but just barely, the AIDS > KEN EISNER epidemic. Today, as director Bobbi Jo Hart follows it on tour buses and planes travelling the world, the troupe is celebrated by ballet aficionados YOUTH (American Ballet Theatre principal dancer James Starring Miao Miao. In Mandarin, with English Whiteside praises the Trocks’ technical skill and subtitles. Rated 14A humour here) and is home to several married The Chinese title of this epic production is couples. Culled from around the world, its danFragrant Youth, after a recurring song in this cers are as devoted as any prima ballerina—and apparently have loving families to support them. energetic and richly colourful movie (and, perOne of the film’s most compelling stories be- haps, a sonnet by Dante Gabriel Rossetti). The story is narrated, in retrospect, by Suizi longs to the troupe’s veteran star, Robert “Bobby” Carter, who takes the film crew home to his un- (Elane Zhong), the beautiful and poised lead dancer in an army ballet troupe touring glamorous roots in rural South Carolina. the hinterlands in the mid-1970s. But Hiding any pain from his past through the main protagonist in this complex laughter, he introduces a mother who Check out… faithfully encouraged her son at a time STRAIGHT.COM ensemble piece is He Xiaoping (Miao Miao), an equally talented newwhen, clearly, it wasn’t remotely acVisit our website comer at the bottom of the social ceptable to do so. for the latest pecking order because her family is But more than anything, Rebels on reviews and local movie news in disgrace. This is after the height Pointe sets out to prove the company, of the Cultural Revolution, during despite its gags, is no joke—that behind which Mao harnessed the energy of rethe gallons of makeup, the metres of tulle, and the size-12 slippers, the men here are top- bellious adolescence to help destroy critics and flight dancers. Just try lifting a 165-pound guy enemies, both real and imagined. Xiaoping is another stand-in for screenwriter over your head if you don’t believe us. > JANET SMITH Yan Geling, who herself spent more than a decade with an arts troupe like this. A widely read CALL ME BY YOUR NAME poet and novelist who now lives in Berlin with her American husband, she also covered this territory Starring Timothée Chalamet. In English, French, in books and screenplays she adapted for Joan and Italian, with English subtitles. Rated 14A Chen’s Xiu Xiu: The Sent-Down Girl, from 1998, Timothée Chalamet is having quite a year and the even grittier Coming Home, made by at the movies. The Manhattan-born Fran- grand master Zhang Yimou just three years ago. co-American, who turns 22 this month, broke The emphasis in Youth is on movement, colour, through as the sullen rocker in Lady Bird. Now and music, as well as on romantic rivalries in the he’s in virtually every scene of Call Me by Your coed and surprisingly egalitarian company. ParName, a breathlessly told tale of adolescent awak- ticularly notable are the yearnings of endlessly reening set in rural Italy. sourceful and seemingly altruistic Liu Feng (Xuan The dark-eyed youngster plays Elio Perlman, a Huang, veteran of many historical pics), whom the 17-year-old music prodigy spending the summer others playfully mock as “a living Lei Feng”, due of 1983 with his French mother (Amira Casar, to his nominal similarity to a humble and largely who’s actually from England) and American mythical soldier-hero of first-generation PRCers. father (Michael Stuhlbarg) at their seasonal villa The movie itself appears to venerate the People’s in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Dad is a Liberation Army, especially during the messier professor of antiquities, and this year’s academic second half of its overcrowded 136 minutes, in assistant is a grad student who’s pretty much a which the company is torn apart by the Sinogolden statue of Adonis himself. Vietnamese War of 1979. The actors look too Tall, flaxen-haired, 24-year-old Oliver (The So- wholesome and healthy throughout, and group cial Network’s Armie Hammer, who looks older) commanders are seen as mostly wise. This may arrives like a summer storm, shaking up the na- seem like mere boosterism to western viewers. see next page tives and the Perlman household. Especially

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 29

presents

Awesome Foot Lounge & Spa

OFFICIAL SELECTION

THE SIDE OTHER E OF HOP

SPUTNIK OY

VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

HAJI SHERWAN OSMANEN U SAKARI K

2017

OFFICIAL SELECTION

TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2017

WINNER, SILVER BEAR BEST DIRECTOR

Formerly King’s Feet on Burrard St.

BERLIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

MASSAGE + REFLEXOLOGY

2017

BY D DIRECTED

KI Ä M S I R U A K AKI

WRITTEN AN

947 Seymour St. NEW LOCATION! 604.633.3999 11am - 10pm • 7 days/wk

are

you

THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT’S WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

on the

LIST?

To subscribe visit STRAIGHT.COM/NEWSLETTERS

Youth

WEEKLY SPECIALS Mon - ALL DOSAS: $ 99

++++ — Guardian “WINSOME, SWEET, AND OFTEN VERY FUNNY.” — IndieWire

STARTS FRIDAY!

VANCITY THEATRE

DIRECTED BY JOHN CARROLL LYNCH 1181 SEYMOUR ST • VANCOUVER

VIFF.ORG

Tickets + Showtimes

¿OPVweOLNH

See the trailer • filmswelike.com

9 Year Anniversary th

Mon-Sun 11:30am - 10pm

5656 Fraser Street @ 41st Ave, Vancouver

5 9

- ALL CURRY: $ 99 - ALL BIRIYANI: $ 99

Tues Wed Thurs - IDLI/VADA

Chairman Mao’s army strikes up the band in the richly colourful Youth.

DOSA COMBO: $ 9 99

WEEKEND SPECIALS (FRI/SAT/SUN)

Dosa + Beer Combo VEGI: $1199 | MEAT: $1299

604-327-1233 www.madrasdosahouse.com

from previous page

Still, arbitrary punishments intrude, even after Mao’s death and the gradual dissipation of party ideology and the introduction of foreign goods and, most crucially, capitalistic notions. The overall tone of sorrow here comes from more than nostalgia; you’re left with a sense that all that idealistic pulling together and doing without was beautiful, in a way. But it didn’t really amount to all that much in the end. > KEN EISNER

AFGHAN HORSEMEN RESTAURANT SINCE 1974

MY JOURNEY THROUGH FRENCH CINEMA Directed by Bertrand Tavernier. In French, with English subtitles. Rating unavailable

Born a decade after new-wave

AWARD WINNING AFGHAN CUISINE

2 godheads François Truffaut and

12T H A N N U A L

2015

2014

I LAUGHED SO HARD MY THROAT HURTS.”

“

93%

1833 Anderson St. (2nd Floor) Vancouver

BEFORE THE ENTRANCE TO GRANVILLE ISLAND, RIGHT BEHIND THE STARBUCKS

(604)873-5923 Open 7 Days A Week www.afghanhorsemen.com

THE DISASTER ARTIST COARSE LANGUAGE

NOW PLAYING

*AS OF DECEMBER 11

CHECK THEATRE DIRECTORY FOR LOCATIONS AND SHOWTIMES

ERIC ROHMER:

ERIC ROHMER: DEC 9-18

DEC 9-18

PERCEVAL THE MARQUISE OF O THE LADY AND THE DUKE 4 ADVENTURES OF REINETTE AND MIRABELLE

LADY BIRD’ IS BIG-SCREEN PERFECTION.” “‘

NAT TIONAL TION AL BOARD BOARD D OF REVIEW NATIONAL

NATION AL BOA RD OF REVIEW NATIONAL BOARD

BEST BE EST ES T DIRECTOR DIRE DIRE IR CTO OR

BEST BES E T SUPPORTING SUPP SUPP PORT OR R ING G AC ACT R S RES ACTRESS

WINNER WINN WI W N ER NN E GRETA GRET G A GERWIG GERWIG W

WINNER WINN WI N ER NN R LAURIE LAU LAUR AU U IE EM METCA METCALF ETCA TTCA ALF

GOTHAM AWARDS

WINNER

99% 9 9% %

BEST FEMALE LEAD

SAOIRSE RONAN

ACADE EMY AWARD® NOMINEE ACADEMY

*AS OF DECEMBER 11

FREE SCREENINGS THROUGHOUT DECEMBER!

I’VE HEARD THE MERMAIDS SINGING

ALL AGES WELCOME!

+ THE SAND CASTLE SONATINE FRI, DEC 15 - 6:30pm FRI, DEC 15 - 8:30pm

MON ONCLE ANTOINE

SUN, DEC 17 - 1pm

BLACK CHRISTMAS

18A

THUR, DEC 21 - 7pm

GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINEE

SEXUAL CONTENT

THEATRE DIRECTORY NOW PLAYING FORCHECK LOCATIONS AND SHOWTIMES

30 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

Stay Connected @GeorgiaStraight

Jean-Luc Godard, Bertrand Tavernier experienced the movies as a sickly child after the Second World War. Perhaps still best-known for his definitive jazz movie Round Midnight, the venerable writer-director is well-placed to guide modern viewers through the back roads and main highways of one of the world’s great moviemaking cultures. Addressing the camera, without the aid of identifying titles or subject headers, our white-haired auteur mixes colourful anecdotes with deeper analysis in this program, which demands, and rewards, close attention for its three-hour-plus running time. That’s actually condensed from the 10-part series that wrapped on French TV earlier this year. Without attempting to be comprehensive, the (relatively) more compact theatrical version is a surprisingly coherent overview, whether you’re a newcomer to the belle époque before the war or a lifelong fan of the nouvelle vague. Our host doesn’t stint on the basics, but does privilege less familiar material, such as the pulp movies of Eddie Constantine, and he rebuilds the reputations of filmmakers like Marcel Carné and Jacques Becker, ignored or even trashed by the new wavers. There’s special attention paid to the many phases of Jean Gabin—Bogart, Cagney, and John Wayne rolled into one durable brioche. (We learn that Gabin’s hair turned white after he joined the Allies to invade France in 1944.) Tavernier doesn’t shy away from the less wholesome actions of Jean Renoir at the start of the war. First, the revered filmmaker was with the progressive Popular Front, then the Communists, and finally, when the occupation began, his brother Pierre later recalled, “I was afraid he was going to march right into the arms of the Germans.” Renoir’s stature was inadvertently saved when he went to Hollywood for the duration. Screenwriter Jacques Prévert managed to work right through the occupation, providing cover for his Hungarian Jewish colleague Joseph Kosma, with whom he wrote “Autumn Leaves”. Tavernier spends much time on the composers who contributed mightily to the character of French film in all eras—in particular the tragic Maurice Jaubert, whose scores for early classics by Jean Vigo and René Clair might have been lost forever if Truffaut hadn’t paid to have them orchestrated and recorded in the 1970s. Tidbits like that illustrate why this Journey is so worth taking. It’s far from over, as well. > KEN EISNER

FOOD

When it comes BY GAIL JOHN SON

to cooking a traditional Christmas turkey dinner, home cooks and professional chefs will have all the usual culinary tools on hand: chopping board, meat thermometer, kitchen string, baster, and carving knife. For Ryan McDonald, though, the one utensil he cannot do without is a melon baller. The executive chef of Urban Fare uses the gadget to make his mom’s “golf-ball potatoes”, a recipe that has become a family mainstay and annual holiday hit. “You peel russet potatoes, then take a melon baller to make little balls,” McDonald tells the Straight at the store’s Alberni Street location. “Keep the rest for mashed potatoes, and cook them with the turkey and the drippings; add them in about halfway through. They take on the flavour of the turkey, and they get crispy on the bottom. When you take the turkey out and let it rest, turn the oven up to 425, baste the potatoes with the drippings, and crisp them up some more. Everyone who tries them loves them.” McDonald, who was born in Toronto and grew up in Surrey, was in elementary school when he began helping his mom in the kitchen. (His mother, a cancer survivor, is “an amazing cook”, he says.) By 15, he was working at McDonald’s; he loved the fast pace and public interaction. Not long after, he got a job as sauté cook at the White Rock Boathouse. That led to his first head-chef title at the chain’s Horseshoe Bay location. McDonald worked there for four years before joining Urban Fare a decade ago. McDonald loves the creativity involved in his work and the access he has to all sorts of ingredients,

It’s time to talk turkey

Urban Fare’s Ryan McDonald still uses his mom’s stuffing recipe (Tracey Kusiewicz photo); H2’s Caitlin Mark (below left) reduces anxiety by distributing tasks to diners.

and fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and oregano in a Vancouver chefs have plenty of ideas on how to save time and food processor along with conquer stress while preparing a monumental holiday dinner salt and pepper. Then he takes that herb butter from quail eggs and truffle oil to Australian wagyu and rubs it under the skin. and prosciutto di Parma. Yet although he loves ex“The butter is going to get into the breasts and perimenting with food, the Christmas dinner he crisp up the skin; it keeps that breast flavourful makes for his family’s gathering of about 20 people and drips down into the bottom of the pan, so the is centred on the flavours he grew up with, including basting fluid is better, with all the turkey fat and those golf-ball potatoes. herbs,” he says. “It’s like heaven.” “It’s traditional, turkey, ham, all the fi xings: He roasts garlic for the mashed potatoes and adds roasted root vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, salt, pepper, heavy cream, and butter. Yams, turnips, Brussels sprouts, Baileys and coffee, and mulled carrots, and red onion get roasted too, with thyme, wine,” he says. “I still use my mom’s stuffing rosemary, brown sugar, and olive or truffle oil. Mcrecipe. I will never change it. It’s so simple: Donald also loves carrot-and-turnip mash: “You boil ground sausage, garlic, sage, salt, pepper, bread the two together, then mash it all up and top with crumbs, and fresh parsley.” butter and brown sugar,” he says. “My mom told me Along with several other Vancouver chefs, it was cake when we were kids. It kinda stuck.” McDonald shares other tips for a successful, McDonald cuts Brussels sprouts in half, blanchdelicious holiday meal. es them, and pan-fries them with bacon, adding For starters, he’s a firm believer in brining a squeeze of lemon juice afterward; some people the bird. It’s a simple step that he highly rec- throw in walnuts. He reduces the turkey drippings ommends for people who may find cooking with red wine for gravy, skipping the flour, as he a turkey intimidating. “If you screw up your prefers a looser sauce. turkey on a regular basis, try brining,” he says. On top of all that, he makes a bone-in ham as “It’s a little more forgiving. It’s going to retain well; this year he’s trying a pineapple-rum glaze. water.…You don’t want to overbrine; it takes His ideal dessert selections include bananaon a terrible texture if you do.” He soaks the bird cream pie and mincemeat tarts; this Christmas, in the saltwater solution overnight; he says never to he’s bringing home a salted-caramel cheesecake brine longer than 24 hours. from Small Victory. (Urban Fare carries products The next secret to a mouthwatering meal, accord- from the Homer Street bakery.) Then there are ing to McDonald, is probably no secret at all: but- butter tarts: “My mom still has to make those, beter. After he rinses the bird, McDonald whips butter cause I can’t do them like she does.”

McDonald’s most important piece of advice is to prepare and plan ahead. Don’t leave grocery shopping to the last minute, when items such as fresh sage may be sold-out. Do as much prep as you can the day before so that Christmas Day isn’t so overwhelming. “The day before, I’m having a glass of wine, watching Christmas shows, and I’m prepping. I wake up in the morning and I’m ready to go. And tell everyone they’re not allowed in the kitchen until you’re done. When there’s people in the kitchen opening ovens, and looking at stuff, that’s what stresses me out.” KEEPING THE TENSION from rising in the

kitchen is possibly the most important goal of all in preparing Christmas dinner, according to Joey executive chef Chris Mills. He suggests cooking the turkey, along with the rest of the dinner, earlier than you might think. “Learn how to reheat the items or keep them hot,” Mills says. “That’s a chef secret. Years of large-party planning and banquet-catering experience have taught me that in order to remove stress and make tastier food, you need to precook and become an expert at keeping it warm. Add the additional heat last-minute to make things piping hot. You’ll then have more time to adjust seasoning, make pretty plates, and, most importantly, enjoy a glass of wine with your loved ones when you would normally be a cooking stress ball.” Au Comptoir chef Daniel McGee grew up vegetarian, so his family’s Christmas dinner consisted of veggie versions “of every side dish you can imagine”. “Vegetable pot pie is the centrepiece of our holiday see page 34

WIN TWO TICKETS TO THE

SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY OUTTURN Authentic Greek Food Extensive Wine & Bar List

1830 Fir St. Vancouver | 604.736.9559

Join us as we sample from the world’s largest selection of single cask, single malt whiskies available in Canada – straight from the cask, to the bottle, to you.

UNFILTERED. UNDILUTED. UNRIVALED. Visit legacyliquorstore.com for more information

TUESDAY JANUARY 9, 2018

www.apolloniagreekrestaurant.com CLOSED MONDAYS

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 31

1949

1699

MASI CAMPOFIORIN RIPASSO VENETO APPASSIMENTO Italy Reg. $21.49 155051 750 mL JAMMY RAISIN NOTES

2329

KAHLÚA Mexico Reg. $25.29 123315 750 mL

1449

88 POINTS Wine Spectator 2017

SAVE

EXCLUSIVE

300

2899 THE KRAKEN BLAC BLACK SPICED RUM Trinid Trinidad and Tobago Reg. $30.99 1199455 19 9945 750 mL

SAVE

4599 GLENLIVET FOUNDER'S RESERVE SCOTCH WHISKY United Kingdom Reg. $50.99 647834 750 mL

150

CENTRAL CITY RED RACER REIGN OF HOPS MIXER PACK Canada Reg. $20.99 509307 12 x 355 mL

3099

1999

200

STEAMWORKS MASH-UP Canada Reg. $21.99 799809 12 x 330 mL

3249

SAVE

$ SAVE

200

PELLER ESTATES PROPRIETOR'S RESERVE PINOT GRIGIO Canada Reg. $35.49 361105 4 L

SAVE

1949

SAVE

JA JAMESON IIRISH WHISKEY IIreland Reg. $32.99 R 110157 750 mL

SAVE

$ SAVE

WOLF BLASS YELLOW LABEL CABERNET SAUVIGNON Australia Reg. $16.49 251876 750 mL RIPE BERRY FRUIT & SPICE

EXCLUSIVE

Only available at BC LIQUOR STORES!

200

CA MOMI ROSSO USA Reg. $19.99 618504 750 mL COMPLEX & BOLD

SAVE

BLARNEY'S IRISH CREAM USA Reg. $19.99 777607 750 mL

SAVE

1699

1849

JACKSON-TRIGGS RESERVE MERLOT BC VQA Reg. $13.99 543876 750 mL NOTES OF PLUM & BLACK CHERRIES

SAVE

BLASTED CHURCH HATFIELD'S FUSE BC VQA Reg. $17.99 734475 750 mL CITRUS, PEAR & GRAPEFRUIT

SAVE

1199

OYSTER BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC New Zealand Reg. $19.99 316570 750 mL PASSION FRUIT & TROPICAL FRUIT

SAVE

1599

$ SAVE

100

300

949

HOLLANDIA PREMIUM LAGER Netherlands Reg. $10.49 392290 6 x 440 mL

Hand-picked by our experts

EXCLUSIVE

ccharge! hill No

coldzone c VI VISIT THE

FOR CHILLED PRODUCTS FO

Visit www.bcliquorstores.com for store locations & hours.

BC's Largest Selection of Spirits, Beer & Wine!

Visit our website to locate stores fea featuring ring cold d beer, ciders, coolers and wine.

On Sale Until Dec 30th

While supplies last. *Inventory by store will vary. Prices are subject to change without notice. In the event of a change, the product description and display price in the liquor store will prevail. Prices do not include taxes.

32 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

FOOD

Making wine lovers merry

Guide to the Wines, Producers, and Terroirs of the Iconic Region is a sophisticated boxed set of Peter Liem’s tome and regional maps—and a must for any Champagne fan in your life. The book has in-depth profiles of the place, the wines, and the people behind them; it comes with gorgeous photography; and it is destined to be a RELUCTANT TRADING WINE great conversation piece when spotted BAGS ($9.97, www.etsy.com/) These on any coffee table or shelf. Looking to handsome canvas totes make for add a bottle of the stuff? You could do easy stocking stuffers and will be much worse than Pierre Paillard’s Les stylish accessories when popping Parcelles Bouzy Grand Cru ($56.99, Wine bags from Reluctant Trading over to a friend’s place for dinner. B.C. Liquor Stores), a blend of Pinot make for easy stocking stuffers. Inexpensive enough to gift along Noir and Chardonnay made entirely with a bottle for your host, yet sharp of that time in close contact with the from estate fruit and coming in at a enough to keep for yourself. spent yeast makes for a very creamy great price. mouthfeel and plenty of freshly-bakedTHE NEW WINE RULES (from sourdough notes to go along with its ZALTO CARAFE NO. 75 ($89.99, $11.38, www.amazon.ca/) From the re- elements of lemon curd and orange newdistrict.ca/) There are plenty of nowned American marmalade. It’s one whimsically shaped decanters on the wine writer Jon of my favourite market, but my money is on those ofBritish Columbian fering both simplicity and elegance. Bonné—who is wines I’ve tasted They do just as good a job; simply currently a senior Kurtis Kolt this year; hopefully, slowly ease the wine from bottle to contributing editor at Punch magazine—comes this book whomever you gift this to will be keen decanter, give it a good swish around, subtitled A Genuinely Helpful Guide to to share. It is also available locally in and you’re set. There’s no need to Everything You Need to Know that cov- private wine stores. keep it tucked away in the back of ers the basics of wine without being the a cupboard; this broad-shouldered least bit patronizing or dry. New rules, ALESSI RED-WINE GLASSES ($40, Zalto edition looks so smart it dewhich come with tidy philosophies www.vanspecial.com/) Most of the serves to be shown off. tacked along with them, include why time when imbibing at home, I opt for a good wine-store employee should be stemless glasses. Any concern about TUSCAN WINE STUDY TOUR your best friend and doing away with a hands on a glass’s bowl warming white (US$4,295, www.winescholarguild.org/) search for the “best” wines in favour of wine too quickly are alleviated by my I get it. This suggestion isn’t for regunot exactly sipping said wine too slow- lar gift-giving, but there are some out hunting down “good” ones. ly. Such glasses are casual and fun, and there who splurge big-time around BLUE MOUNTAIN VINEYARD AND breakage is way less likely when there the holidays, right? C’mon: how aweCELLARS RESERVE BRUT 2009 isn’t a stem involved. These Jasper some and memorable would your ($39.90,www.bluemountainwinery.com/) Morrison–designed Italian glasses are Christmas be if you received this Sparkling wines make everyone quite attractive while carrying enough six-day wine-study tour in May 2018 happy, so gems like Blue Mountain’s width and depth to get a good swirl in Tuscany with master of wine Jane ’09 Reserve Brut should easily fill re- on. Pick these up as a set of four at Hunt? In addition to visiting iconic cipients with glee. This Champagne- Vancouver Special (3612 Main Street), producers like Ornellaia e Masseto style, traditional-method blend of where you can also find white-wine (formerly Tenuta dell’Ornellaia) and Chardonnay and Pinot Noir rested in and water glasses as part of the series. Tenuta Tignanello and destination the winery’s cellar on the post-secondregions like Brunello di Montalcino fermentation lees until August 2016, CHAMPAGNE BOXED BOOK-AND- and Chianti Classico, indulge in lowhen it was disgorged and aged one MAP SET (from $48.97, www.ama cal gastronomy, snooze in four-star more year before its recent release. All zon.ca/) Champagne: The Essential hotels, and soak up the sun. or those who are puzzled over what to get the wine enthusiasts on their shopping lists this year, fear not. I’ve assembled an array of gifts I can assure will make almost any wine lover happy, since I wouldn’t mind seeing any of ’em under my own tree.

Gallery Opening Reception

INTO THE

ARCTIC

The Bottle

Friday Jan 26 @ 6pm Queen Elizabeth Theatre Lobby RSVP via Eventbrite.com

Mix ingredients. Season to taste. Serve over 17 days. BOOK EVENT TICKETS AND HOTEL SPECIALS NOW!

JANUARY 19 to FEBRUARY 4, 2018

PREMIER PARTNER

FESTIVAL PARTNER

PREFERRED PARTNERS

™ Trademark of Tourism Vancouver, The Metro Vancouver Convention and Visitors Bureau. ® Aeroplan and the Aeroplan logo are registered trademarks of Aimia Canada Inc.

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 33

Talk turkey

from page 31

dinners, served with miso gravy from the Naam,” he says; potato gratin is another favourite. However, he has a suggestion for traditionalists who eat meat. “Deboning the turkey will allow you to cook the breast and legs at different times and temperatures,” McGee says. “This really speeds up cooking and makes carving so much easier. You can even prepare a stock using the leftover bones in advance to use for your gravy.” Café Medina chef Adam Perrier, who remembers having traditional Christmases at his grandma’s growing up, is also a fan of deboning, as he says it cuts cooking time in half. “After deboning,” he says, “I like to stuff the turkey with a mix of prosciutto and spinach, put butter under the skin, and tie the turkey together like a roast before putting it in the oven.” Jason Pleym, co-owner along with his wife, Margot, of Two Rivers Specialty Meats, has another way of dealing with the turkey: if the breast meat is cooked but the legs aren’t, he’ll simply remove the latter and put them back in the oven on a cookie sheet. This frees up the oven for side dishes, and it’s easy to put the turkey back in if it needs a quick flash of heat. The pièce de résistance, though, is his confit turkey thighs, which he began making for Thanksgiving a few years ago. “It’s done in the identical way as duck confit,” Pleym says. “They need to be somewhat cured to build some flavour profile up; that’s an 18- to 24-hour process. I take a mixture of whatever herbs I like; I would typically go traditional, but last year I did it with fruit to make it sweet and savoury. I took three different lemons for zest and a bunch of garlic, thyme, sage, and salt and rubbed it all over the thighs. It all sits in a tub overnight.” The next day, he rinses the thighs off and has his duck fat ready to go. “Then I just slip them under the fat and into the oven for a few hours,” he

Truffles owner Nin Rai stays cool by writing things down. Alison Kuhl photo.

says. “I’ll crisp them up massive, pull all the meat, so you have a platter of confit turkey meat. It’s just incredible.” And gravy is essential: “In [my wife’s] family, they call it vitamin G, they love it so much.” DAN OLSON, CO-OWNER and chef

of Railtown Catering, recommends cooking your stuffing separately rather than in the turkey cavity. “Not only is this a safer option, but the unstuffed bird will cook faster and more evenly,” Olson says. “I try to use seasonal veggies as much as possible when preparing a big family dinner during the holidays: roasted Brussels sprouts with toasted almonds, buttered baby carrots, and maple-glazed sweet potatoes are a few of my favourites,” he adds. “I always make my own cranberry sauce. I infuse mine with fresh ginger, oranges, and natural wildflower honey. It’s a much healthier alternative to the storebought sauce that includes refined sugars and syrups.” That store-bought cranberry sauce is something that Lazy Gourmet executive chef Jenny Hui remembers from one of her family dinners many years ago. Although they would have turkey, most of the dishes were Chinese. One year, her aunt added cranberry sauce: “All I can remember was this jellylike

substance that was shaped like the can,” she says with a laugh. These days, she loves serving stuffing and caramelized yams as sides, and desserts take a starring role too: threelayer chocolate mousse, lemon mousse, butter tarts, and cream puffs. Hui has a few time- and stresssaving tips to share. “I rent dishes, glassware, and utensils so I won’t need to worry about the cleanup. Sometimes there isn’t enough oven space, so I would use the BBQ or rent a convection oven. “Pick out your serving dish the night before and set it aside,” she adds. “Don’t worry if dinner won’t be on time and make sure to have a glass or two of wine while cooking.” Nin Rai, owner and chef of Truffles Fine Foods, suggests writing things down. “I always like to start about six hours before the actual dinner with a glass of rum and eggnog as I lay out my menu and prep list. My favourite sides are roasted yams, Brussels sprouts with bacon and Parmesan, cheesecreamed corn, cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, and, of course, buttery, whipped mashed potatoes. Famous French chef Joël Robuchon has one of the best mashed-potato recipes. “Try not to overstress by trying to do too much,” he adds. “Trust me, there’s always enough food for everyone.” Caitlin Mark, chef of H2 Rotisserie and Bar at the Westin Bayshore (whose favourite side dish is mashed rutabaga with butter and maple syrup, with a classic southern-style pecan pie for dessert), suggests following this mantra: divide and conquer. “Organize who is in charge of what items,” Mark says. “My parents would always split the cooking, while I would set the table and prepare the salad. My sister would be assigned table-clearing and dessert setup, making it a true family affair. Currently, potluck dinners are my go-to. My friends each bring a variety of side dishes, while I am responsible for the main. This gives us the opportunity to have a dinner in keeping with the spirit of the holidays while keeping it stress-free.” -

7 DAYS A WEEK

9:30PM-CLOSE

Live Agency presents

THU DEC 14

AURORAS w. ORNAMENT & CRIME

SAT DEC 16

1pm-4pm

EVIL BASTARD KARAOKE EXPERIENCE

HOSTED BY:

NO COVER

KARAOKE DEC 15 TOTAL REWIND D DEC 16 MIB DDEC 17 ANNUAL SANTA CLAUS BASH AT THE “HOE” (HO HO) SONS OF THE HOE

NO COVER • DAILY HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS

OPEN UNTIL 3AM FRIDAY AND SATURDAY

Blues brunch w. rob montgomery 4:30pm-8:30pm

1038 Main Street IVANHOE PUB

THE PHONIX + DJ NINA MENDOZA - JAN 2

saturday sessions the original jam session 9pm-late Live Agency presents

the blackwood renegades w. guests SUN DEC 17

The Railway Stage presents

AC/DCEMBER ROCK BAND KARAOKE

MON DEC 18 THE TAKE BACK w. KHALIL, MIC FLONT & VAN ANDREAS The Railway presents

Dec 21 Boogie Nights presents THE BLAZING ARROWS Dec 22 Toddcast Podcast presents THE BOOM BOOMS Dec 23 Railway Stage presents WASTED STRAYS w. GUESTS

14 THE PHONIX 19 THURSDAY

BACKSTAGE LOUNGE PRESENTS

VANCOUVERS BEST FUNK & SOUL PARTY BAND DOORS 9 SHOW 10PM - $7

15 16 @RailwaySBC

579 Dunsmuir St

FRIDAY

BACKSTAGE LOUNGE PRESENTS

THE X PRESIDENTS MARK WOODYARD BACKSTAGE LOUNGE PRESENTS

AFRICANA-TROPICAL CHRISTMAS DJ MARC FOURNIER (ELECTROPICAL SOUND SYSTEM) DOORS 9 SHOW 10PM - $10

BACKSTAGE LOUNGE PRESENTS

THE LAST HURRAH OPEN MIC NIGHT DOORS 8 SHOW 9:30PM

21 TOY ZEBRA THURSDAY

BACKSTAGE LOUNGE PRESENTS

POP AND ROCK COVERS DRINK SPECIALS DOORS 9 SHOW 10 - $7

DOORS 9 SHOW 10 - $10

SATURDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

BACKSTAGE LOUNGE PRESENTS

‘TIS THE SEASON OPEN MIC NIGHT!!

DOORS 9 SHOW 10PM $5 COVER/FREE IF YOU PERFORM

FOOD. DRINK. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. *** VISIT US ONLINE FOR UP TO THE MINUTE LISTINGS, DRINK SPECIALS AND MORE www.thebackstagelounge.com ***

34 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

MUSIC

What do a onetime ska-punk princess, a B Y JOHN L UC A S, MI KE USINGER, AND KATE WI LSO N

gaggle of southern hillbillies, and a pushing-40 boy band have in common? Well, about as much as the disparate cast of characters on this year’s vault-raiding A Capitol Christmas, but that didn’t stop Gwen Stefani, Alabama, and Hanson from all entering the 2017 holiday-record sweepstakes. Right about now you’re probably thinking about setting up that $89 Scots pine Christmas tree, complete with vintage baubles that have been in your family since your great-great-grandparents first arrived in Vancouver back in 1887. The last thing you want to do is ruin the mood by jumping in this year’s Christmas-album pool and coming up with something worse than William Hung’s Hung for the Holidays. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find a healthy cross-section of some of 2017’s best and worst Yuletide-themed releases, with the best getting a present, the so-so a functional pair of tighty-whiteys, and the worst a sad little Charlie Brown Xmas tree. No one wants to hear Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas” for the 900th time, so start building that Spotify playlist using the following

Music to make spirits bright Our and

When Gwen Stefani sings “This year I’ve got so much to celebrate” on “Never Kissed Anyone With Blue Eyes Before”, it feels like a dig at a certain ex.

G on vocals) is a little too obvious to really hit that mark. Moreover, it’s in odd company alongside a straightforward classical annual roundup of the great, the not so great, reading of “What Child Is the so-so in the latest crop of Christmas LPs This”, a version of “I Saw reviews as a guide. And while no one’s demanding Three Ships” played as a Celtic reel, and a take you make sure the artists are in the same wheel- on “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” with a hiphouse, remember that no one wants to hear Gwen hop snap beat. If you liked what Stirling did with Stefani’s fantastically peppy reading of “Jingle Evanescence’s monumentally mopey “My ImBells” back to back with Alabama’s shitkicking mortal” a few years back, you’ll love what she does with “Angels We Have Heard on High”—which is “Christmas in Dixie”. suck all the joy out of it like a kid with a candy KRAMPUSNACHT Krampusnacht cane—but you might hate the 1940s big-bandChristmas: a time of tinsel, presents, swing treatment she gives “Jingle Bell Rock”. Or and a horrifying half-human, half-goat vice versa. > JL demon looking to punish badly behaved KASKADE Kaskade Christmas Beyond kids. Krampusnacht takes its inspirathe glut of Christmas remixes dumped tion from the titular Krampus, foil to jolly old St. on SoundCloud by minimally talented Nick, and transposes well-known festive songs bedroom producers, there’s very little like “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” and “Jingle in the way of festive electronic music. Bells” into creepy variations. Devoid of vocals and filled with instruments of horrifying timbres— Stadium stalwart Kaskade’s decision to release the entire album sounds like it’s been composed a full-length holiday album, then, is broaching using preset sounds from a 1990s keyboard—the virgin territory. This year has been a period of record perfectly embodies the feel of a terrifying do-overs for the star, seeing him cast aside his spirit creeping into the rooms of young children big-room, bro-fist-pumping progressive house in the dead of night. None of that is a criticism, for much deeper sounds on the Redux 002 EP. though—the album is strangely compelling, and Kaskade Christmas is much the same. Female vocalists are in charge of singing classic holiperfect for scaring off difficult relatives. > KW day tunes, while Kaskade layers relaxed, smooth GWEN STEFANI You Make It Feel Like beats underneath. There are no hyped drops or Christmas Gwen Stefani hasn’t made gimmicky sounds here—only breathy, atmosmany missteps in a career that’s seen pheric samples, dreamy synths, and genuinely her transition from ska-punk darling to original takes on everything from carols to dance-pop solo star to fashion titan to Christmas pop. > KW network-TV celebrity. As one might expect, given HANSON Finally, It’s Christmas Billed the way everything the American icon touches as the long-awaited, 20-year follow-up turns to gold (except her marriage to Gavin Rossto Snowed In—an album made when dale), You Make It Feel Like Christmas is pretty the trio of brothers were still young, much perfectly executed, from a big-band readcute, and marketable—Finally, It’s ing of “Jingle Bells” to soul-power originals like “Under the Christmas Lights”. Classy as she is, Christmas proves that older doesn’t necessarStefani isn’t above flipping the Christmas bird to ily mean wiser. Still peddling twee bubblegum the ex who famously took up with the nanny; on rock despite the fact that its members are now “Never Kissed Anyone With Blue Eyes Before”, pushing 40, Hanson misses the opportunity she sends a love letter to new squeeze Blake Shel- to show that its music has, you know, grown ton with “This year I’ve got so much to celebrate.” up a bit since 1997. To the band’s credit, it’s Rather than hating her for being so perfect, try to avoided repeating tracks from the first collecaccept that, for some of us, it truly is a wonderful tion, but unfortunately we’d much rather take Snowed In’s adorable “Run Rudolph Run” over life. > MU Finally, It’s Christmas’s tired “All I Want for ELVIS PRESLEY Christmas With Elvis Christmas”. Gospel-choir backing vocals can’t and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra save “Winter Wonderland” or “Peace on Earth” We’re still a little baffled about how from sounding like they’d be better-placed on Elvis is still releasing new music—largely because children’s TV soundtracks than a major-label he’s been in a coffin for 40 years—but hey, Elvis album—but if you insist on wasting your time isn’t dead, right? Fans of the King might be appre- on this record, “A Wonderful Christmas Time” hensive about the appropriation of his perform- is just about passable. > KW ances from 1957’s Elvis’ Christmas Album and VARIOUS ARTISTS A Capitol 1971’s Elvis Sings the Wonderful World of ChristChristmas Volume Two As cash mas, but this record is far from just a cash grab. grabs go, it’s a completely blatant Like 2015’s Royal Philharmonic–scored If I Can Dream—an album that sold nearly twice as many one, with A Capitol Christmas Volume Two copies as Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy-nominated raiding the vaults for a mixed-nuts collection Damn—this album blends Elvis’s vocals with artful that includes Wayne Newton, Dinah Shore, new arrangements. More than a crooning, classical Lena Horne, and Glen Campbell. In fairness, collection, Christmas With Elvis is often bouncy and they could have upped the bizarro quotient by inviting William Hung, Stryper, the Smashing energetic, showcasing the King’s flair. > KW Pumpkins, and Yanni to the Xmas party. Get LINDSEY STIRLING Warmer in the past the fact that a Capitol recording contract Winter This is less a Christmas record is all that connects many of the artists, though, than it is a playlist, and while YouTube and you’ll discover genuine treasures like sensation Lindsey Stirling is a very talented vio- Les Paul and Mary Ford’s retro-riffic “White linist, Warmer in the Winter is too eclectic for its Christmas” and Al Martino’s lounge-tastic “Silown good. Ever since Mariah Carey struck gold ver Bells”. On the downside, a 1991 remix of with “All I Want for Christmas”, everyone making “Christmas Day” serves as a grim reminder that a holiday album seems obligated to take a crack the Beach Boys should have been buried at sea at writing their own Phil Spector–style number. right around the time Brian Wilson officially “Christmas C’mon” (featuring the chirpy Becky went off the deep end. > MU

THE COASTERS Christmas With the Coasters For those who need a reminder, the Coasters lit up the 1950s and ’60s with their brand of bluesy rock ’n’ roll vocal numbers. For a number of reasons, the band currently boasts a grand total of zero original members. Leon Hughes is the only surviving artist from its first iteration, and now runs a different group. Saxophonist King Curtis met an unfortunate end after being knifed by two junkies in the ’70s. Cornelius Gunter ended up in the morgue in the ’90s after he was shot in a parking garage. Nate Wilson, a member of the re-formed Coasters, was also shot—and then dismembered—in 1980: a crime for which the band’s manager was convicted. None of that grisly history seems to have dampened the spirits of the group’s current lineup, though. Putting a doo-wop spin on festive classics like “Someday at Christmas” and “Winter Wonderland”, the four new members add an oldtimey feel that’s infinitely more engaging than the saccharine takes on Christmas staples currently pumping out of Tim Hortons. > KW SIA Everyday Is Christmas Considering Sia never leaves the house without an oversize wig, hat, or Victorian lampshade obscuring her face, one might have expected her first holiday-themed release to be Everyday Is Halloween. On Everyday Is Christmas, one of pop music’s true originals instead takes a refreshing approach to the most wonderful time of the year. Rather than rolling out the five-millionth rendition of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, the Aussie superstar has penned 10 originals, going to funkytown for “Santa’s Coming for Us” and curling up in front of a glowing fire for the orchestral “Underneath the Christmas Lights”. The album isn’t without its dogs, including the too-cutesy Motown-inspired jam “Puppies in the Window”, but give Sia props for not playing things safe—not to mention dying her hair a fabulously freakish candy-cane red and green for the cover art. > MU DAVIS & MILLER Call Him Immanuel Sultry, jazzy, and full of some very impressive keyboard solos, Call Him Immanuel is a reminder that Vancouver’s local music can stand on a par with any major-label products. Opener “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and closer “Holly Jolly Christmas” are the only nonoriginal tracks—though these virtuosic variations are far from banal—with the two middle songs on this online-only EP representing Davis & Miller’s offering to the festive canon. “Call Him Immanuel” begins with distinct “Space Oddity” vibes before melting into hymnlike melodies and references to the biblical story: the real point, we suppose, of Christmas. “Now It’s Christmas Time” takes the record in a new direction, offering a “Christmas in Dixie” feel mixed with well-timed strikes on tubular bells and a sing-along chorus. Most important of all, the holidays are the season of giving—and Davis & Miller are donating all their sales revenue to Woven, a charity that provides education for girls rescued from human trafficking in Southeast Asia. Merry Christmas. > KW ALABAMA American Christmas What precisely is an American Christmas in 2017? Cheeto Mussolini in a Grinch suit firing lumps of coal over the U.S.–Mexico border with a Russian-made grenade launcher while Harvey Weinstein jacks off into a poinsettia? A crucified Santa Claus draped in the Confederate stars and bars, set alight with a tiki torch, see next page

DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 35

MUSIC

Falcons creates EDM with dancing in mind With the rising popularity of gritty sounds and “put your hands in the air” drops, many EDM producers have lost sight of the fact that they’re supposed to be creating dance music. Falcons, however, has not. Long before he touched a MIDI controller, the producer, born Michael Graham, travelled around North America as a competitive Bboy. Having danced his way through various southern states before landing in Vancouver as an 18-year-old, the artist credits his groove-laden tracks to his deep understanding of how music makes people move. “I started out dancing when I was really young—about nine,” he tells the Straight, on the line from a tour stop in Miami. “At that time, there was a really big scene. I was out skateboarding, and I saw some dudes who were breaking, and I was really fascinated with it. I didn’t really have the money to keep buying skateboards, and it was something that I didn’t need to pay for. I fell in love with that culture and way of being. “There’s a big relationship between dancers and DJs, especially with the percussion,” he continues. “When you’re in a B-boying competition and someone changes the beat, the track has to flow and it can’t mess up the dancers. That’s a big thing. Every song that I do has to have at least some groove. It doesn’t necessarily have to be super hype, but it needs to have a bounce to it.” It was his time in Vancouver that really pushed Graham toward making his own music. Arriving in the city

2 abrasive,

Christmas discs

to pursue dancing competitively, he found a group of like-minded individuals who were into the same niche subset of beats. Together, they established a local crew named Space Camp to put out their newly created tracks, which later morphed into Chapel Sound: the collective responsible for spawning artists like Ekali and Jade Statues. Now living and working in Los Angeles, the producer is making a name for himself by blending West Coast beats with southern rap—a nod to all the places he’s called home. Trap percussion and gangsta hip-hop brush up against rolling, laid-back bass lines in his music, earning him mentions in leading rap magazine XXL and a track featured on Apple Music’s hip-hop top five. Graham has an ear for talent and has worked with a number of hyped up-and-comers, including Adam Vida and Grammy nominee GoldLink. “GoldLink is a bit younger than me, five or six years, so he was really young when I was starting to get some buzz on SoundCloud,” Graham recalls of their meeting. “He was following me, Kaytranada, Sango, and a couple of other people. He starting rapping over some of our beats, and made a mix tape of all of his favourite SoundCloud people. He sent them through, and I heard it. He was rapping over a bootleg remix, so there were two vocals going on at once. I thought it was a little hectic and I couldn’t hear exactly what he was saying, so I sent him the track without the vocals on, and he rapped on that and it was really sick. So after that we became homies.” Picking artists mainly on the

from previous page

and put on display on the South Lawn of the White House? That sounds about right, but the guys in Alabama might have different ideas. If you like your country music maudlin and depressing, “First Christmas Without Daddy” and “Sure Could Use Some Christmas Around Here” are Alabama’s gifts to you. And if you don’t, there’s always “Ain’t Santa Cool” or “(I Wanna) Rock N Roll Guitar”, which are as convincing as you’d expect them to be. > JL FANTASIA Christmas After Mid-

night Just gonna get this out of the way right off the top: three years ago CeeLo Green was charged with slipping ecstasy into a woman’s drink, news of which was followed by a since-redacted tweetstorm in which the singer essentially said it’s not rape if one party is unconscious. This makes it extremely discomfiting to hear Green sing the male part in “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”—a duet in which the female half jestingly accuses the man of putting something illicit in her cocktail in order to coerce her into staying. Um, gross! Let’s give former American Idol contestant Fantasia Taylor points for having a jaw-dropping voice, however, and for delivering a suitably greasy take on James Brown’s funktastic chestnut “Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto”. > JL

> KATE WILSON

Falcons plays at Contact Winter Music Festival at B.C. Place on December 26.

Music is a family affair for Montreal’s Barr Brothers Time becomes a precious com-

2 modity once you have a family, something that Brad and Andrew Barr have discovered over their last couple of records with the Barr Brothers. Brad Barr discovered the importance of learning to juggle a busy schedule when his son arrived around the time of the band’s 2014 sophomore album, Sleeping Operator. Andrew became a father during the creation of Queens of the Breakers, released this autumn. The challenge now is carving out time for the Barr Brothers, a trio that also includes harpist and vocalist Sarah Pagé. Luckily, figuring out how to maximize one’s productivity in a condensed window of opportunity is something that the band’s members have come to excel at. “Things got really hectic for a while,” Andrew says, reached on his cellphone at a St. Louis tour stop. “We definitely toured really hard on Sleep-

CELTIC WOMAN The Best of Christ-

mas Oh, Celtic Woman. Less a band than a licence to print Shamrock Bucks, or whatever currency they use in Ireland. With an ever-changing lineup, currently featuring exactly zero original members, Celtic Woman has something like 18 albums out (each featuring truly dreadful graphic design), and about half of them seem to be some sort of Christmas thing. All cynicism aside, the music is more than decent as far as these things go. If you’re looking for a seasonal soundtrack that straddles the line between pop-classical and new age and boasts pretty harmonies and the odd flourish of fiddle and uilleann pipes, The Best of Christmas lives up to its billing. > JL O’HOOLEY & TIDOW WinterFolk,

ing Operator when Brad had just had a kid. Right when we finished that tour, my wife got pregnant and I started nesting. It was a busy couple of years, and that made it hard to find the time to make a record. I wouldn’t say we were less motivated than in the past, but we certainly had some more important things going on that we were taking care of. Little things, like being able to sit up and play the piano at 2 in the morning in the house, become something you can’t do.” When it came time to get serious about a follow-up for Sleeping Operator, the Barrs finally decided that the most productive path was to escape, with the blessing of their wives. That led to them holing up in a rural Quebec cabin with Pagé, the three eventually emerging with the skeleton of the songs that would become Queens of the Breakers. “We kept trying to find time—we have a little studio in Montreal—where we’d be like ‘How about this Tuesday from 2 to 4?’ Then all of a sudden it’s 2 o’clock and everyone’s busy. After months of that, we finally said ‘This is crazy’ and got permission from the wives and went to this cabin that was a half-an-hour snowmobile ride from any store. We really sequestered ourselves away, and it worked. Brad and I had lived together most of our 20s— we lived in a house in Boston where we could play music until 4 in the morning and not get a complaint. There’s something about that kind of freedom. This experience was even more incredible because we were in this giant chalet in the middle of the woods.” That led to a record that makes

like the piano-adorned “The Last Polar Bear” and the powerful ballad “One More Xmas” (including devastating lines like “I just want to be little and spend Christmas with my mum”). > MU TARJA From Spirits and Ghosts (Score for a Dark Christmas) To determine if you’re in the target audience for this pop-operatic exercise by Tarja Turunen—known best as one of the founders of the unintentionally hilarious symphonic-metal outfit Nightwish—ask yourself the following question: do I want my festive fare to evoke images of orcs bidding their heads a gory farewell? The pounding martial drums of “O Tannenbaum” turn the celebration of the simple pleasure of the Christmas tree into something that sounds as if it should be underscoring an epic battle scene in a Lord of the Rings movie, and the rest of the album is just as melodramatically dreary. Or, depending on how many 20-sided dice you own, you might find it breathtakingly awesome. > JL

Volume 1 Here’s something that takes a supersized set of balls: trying to do justice to the Pogues’ inarguably f lawless “Fairytale of New York”. The highly decorated English duo O’Hooley & Tidow manages the almost impossible on WinterFolk, reimagining a modern ChristCHEAP TRICK Christmas Christmas classic as a downbeat meditation, the mas For a band that’s done almost orchestral brashness of the original replaced nothing of value since 1979’s Dream by black-hearted cello and violin. Billed as a Police, Cheap Trick isn’t exactly collection that focuses on “the darker hued set up for an epic fail with the unaspects of yuletide”, the rest of this 12-song outing is indeed best enjoyed by candlelight imaginatively titled Christmas Christmas. at 2 a.m. with a bottle of Ardbeg Kildalton. How unexpected, then, that the kickoff oriSo get set for some serious reflection on songs ginal, “Merry Christmas Darlings”, delivers

&AVinyl 11TH NNIVERSARY from $5.00 Each

12 TH AN SA NIVE LE RSA CDs, DVDs

New-Used Lots ofRecords Goodies New CDs & DVDs New Posters T-Shirts British Soccer Lots of Goodies

A Cheerful Little Earful

12240 2ND AVE. @ BAYVIEW, STEVESTON VILLAGE, RICHMOND

604.204.0044 |

strength of their skill rather than name recognition, though, Graham takes his father’s advice when searching for new collaborators. “He told me that no matter what I do creatively, be original and don’t copy,” he says. “Because if you’re good at being different, you don’t really have any competition.”

WWW.BEATMERCHANT.COM

36 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

music/ timeout CONCERTS < CLUBS & VENUES < OUT OF TOWN <

> MIKE USINGER

The Barr Brothers play the Imperial on Sunday (December 17).

tinsel-draped glam at its most potent, and the closing title track suggests the Beatles headlining a holiday matinee at CBGB. Those of the opinion that the last thing Jesus H. Christ wants to hear around his birthday is distorted guitars and galloping drums will enjoy Cheap Trick’s first holiday album about as much as Cheap Trick fans cared about Woke Up With a Monster. And let’s be honest: the only thing the world needs less than another version of “Run Rudolph Run” is a rendition that throws overdriven Blueshammer harmonica into the mix. Still, for no other reason than no one saw it coming, this late-career triumph somehow makes a fourdecade-old act seem shiny and new. > MU VARIOUS ARTISTS Small Talk

With Scarecrow Apparently, Christmas is a big deal in South Korea, but this compilation from the Masan-based label Heosuabi Record is still inexplicable. Why does a shotgun-brandishing Santa Claus appear to be terrorizing Elvis Presley, Jesus, and Macauley Culkin on the cover? Unless you understand Korean, you’ll likely find yourself wondering exactly what a song like Kim Tae Chun’s “Night of the Living Scarecrow”—all jaunty ragtime piano and musical saw—has to do with Christmas. Ditto Yamagata Tweakster’s bedroomtechno number “Suck You Asshole”, which at least has the benefit of bearing an awesomely translated title. > JL -

Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville). Tix $40, info nowthatsugly.com/party/.

(plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/.

A HOLIDAY TRADITION WITH WE THREE QUEENS Beloved local trio Jennifer Scott, Karin Plato and Kate Hammett-Vaughan take the stage for a two nights of cozy classic carols, holiday favorites, and festive tunes from around the world. Presented by Coastal Jazz. Dec 22-23, 8 pm, Frankie’s Jazz Club (765 Beatty). Tix $20, info www.coastaljazz.ca/.

TERRA LIGHTFOOT Hamilton folk-rock singer-songwriter tours in support of third studio album New Mistakes, with guest William Crighton. Mar 2, doors 7 pm, show 8 pm, Cobalt (917 Main). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $20 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/.

AUTOGRAF American electronica trio, with guests Ramzoid and Cofresi. Feb 17, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, The Imperial (319 Main). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $20 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/.

2JUST ANNOUNCED

GOGOL BORDELLO American Gypsypunk band tours in support of latest album Seekers and Finders. Feb 18, 9 pm, Commodore Ballroom. The concert also runs Feb 19 at Vogue Theatre. Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $39.50 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/.

THE ORIGINAL UGLY SWEATER PARTY Put on an ugly sweater, dance to the music of Groove and Tonic, and help raise money for the Make-A-Wish® Foundation of B.C. and the Yukon. Dec 23, 8 pm,

ELDERBROOK London-based Grammynominated electronica artist, with guest Imagined Herbal Flows. Feb 23, doors 7 pm, show 8 pm, Fortune Sound Club (147 E. Pender). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $15

CONCERTS

it clear the Barr Brothers play by no one’s rules other than their own. Continuing down the same path as Sleeping Operator, Queens of the Breakers doesn’t follow one sonic blueprint. So after starting out in the land of modern Americana with “Look Before It Changes”, the Barr Brothers proceed to lace “Kompromat” with acid-freakout guitar, and break out the Chicagoblues harmonica for “Maybe Someday”. Binding all the songs together is a production job that places a premium on texture, the record as lush as it is often meditative. For that Andrew credits, ironically enough, having nothing but time to work on the songs. “We’re kids who grew up on [Miles Davis’s] Bitches Brew but also never really lost our Kinks and Neil Young records,” Andrew says. “We later got into modern classical, and always thought there was a way for all these things to kind of exist together. The only guiding thing with this band is there’s no limit to the kind of music we can write. Some of the songs on this record started out as literally 45-minute jams. We actually debated for a while, going ‘Should we put out these songs as 20-minute experimental improvisations?’ because we really fell in love with a lot of them. It was hard to cut them up, because they felt incomplete once we started slicing them up. We ultimately decided to make a slightly more traditional record, but I’m really happy with the way they all turned out.”

LUCY DACUS American indie singersongwriter tours in support of upcoming release Historian, with guests And the Kids. Mar 27, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince Edward). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $14 (plus service charges and fees) at www.ticketfly.com/. MINISTRY American industrial-metal band tours in support of upcoming album AmeriKKKant, with guest Chelsea Wolfe. Mar 29, doors 7 pm, Vogue Theatre (918 Granville). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $49.50 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat Records and www.ticketfly.com/. DELHI 2 DUBLIN Canadian world-fusion group tours in support of latest release We’re All Desi. Apr 14, doors 8 pm, show 9:30 pm, Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $25 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/.

see next page

STEVE MILLER BAND American rock band (“The Joker”, “Take the Money and Run”) performs with guest Peter Frampton. Apr 16, 7:30 pm, Abbotsford Centre (33800 King Rd., Abbotsford). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $99.50/79.50/59.50/39.50 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/. PHOEBE BRIDGERS Los Angeles-based indie-folk singer-songwriter tours in support of debut release Stranger in the Alps. Apr 24, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, Cobalt (917 Main). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $13 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/. GANG OF YOUTHS Australian rock band tours in support of latest release Go Farther in Lightness. May 26, doors 7 pm, show 8 pm, Fox Cabaret (2321 Main). Tix on sale Dec 15, 10 am, $13 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.ticketweb.ca/.

2THIS WEEK KEEP IT ALL THE YEAR The East Van Choir Collective presents a fundraiser featuring the Kingsgate Chorus, Mount Pleasant Regional Institute of Sound, and Eschoir. Proceeds go to the WISH Drop-In Centre Society, a resource for women in the DTES. Dec 14, 7 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $15 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Highlife

HOME & GARDEN SERVICES

CLEANERS PROFESSIONAL CLEANING

by 2 ladies. Flexible hours. Free estimates. Residential or Business. All areas. References avaiable. Call Marcia 604-369-2218

MOVING & STORAGE MONTGOMERY MOVING CO. Moving Made easy Since 2007

Call 604-710-5253

MontgomeryMoving@hotmail.com

www.MontgomeryMovingCo.com TwoGuysWithATruck.com

Moving & Storage, Free EST. Visa Okay. 604-628-7136

Rex Moving and Delivery INC

Professional Careful Fast & Friendly. Insured and bonded. Moving. Delivery. Piano moving. Junk removal. Furniture assembly. Residential and Commercial. FREE QUOTE.

604-365-2588

ANNOUNCEMENTS

I LOVE YOU My dearest Ernesto, The connection we have is like no other. When I look at you, I see beyond the physical. I see your soul. It radiates a warmth, a love, and a kindness. With you, I am safe to be me. Your love is bigger than any I am eternally grateful that I am part of your love. I feel what you feel. Your joy is my joy, your pain is my pain. I will move heaven and earth to support your happiness as long as I live. My soul has connected with yours at the core, and this cannot be broken. My heartand soul belong to you forever, and ever. I am yours, and you are mine. We are one. I beloved you. Your wife, Shawny xo

SERVICES

FREE CLASSIFIED AD

www.straight.com/classifieds click place an ad, then FREE ads •Ads must meet criteria in available categories. •Ads will be published online. •Ads will be published in print if space is available.

Records, and www.rickshawtheatre.com/, info www.rickshawtheatre.com/.

COOL YULE! A SWINGING YULETIDE SHOW Vancouver Gypsy-jazz band Van Django performs a mix of nostalgic favourites, jazz standards, sing-alongs, and pop tunes. Dec 14, 8 pm, Presentation House Theatre (333 Chesterfield Ave.). Tix $28/20/15, info www.phtheatre.org/show/ cool-yule/. NO DRESS REHEARSAL: A TRIBUTE TO GORD DOWNIE C.R. Avery hosts a tribute to the late Canadian rocker and Tragically Hip frontman. Includes performances by Kathleen Nisbet and Noah Walker. Dec 14, doors 7 pm, show 8 pm, Rio Theatre (1660 E. Broadway). Tix $25/20, info www.riotheatre.ca/. DING DONG! Musica intima presents a holiday concert of jazz and blues music inspired by Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, Joni Mitchell, Tom Waits, Gordon Lightfoot, Jackson Browne, and Boney M. Dec 14, 8 pm, ANZA Club (3 W. 8th Ave). Tix $30/25/20, info www.musicaintima.org/ content/ding-dong-anza-club-dec-14. KEITHMAS VIII—A FOODBANK FUNDRAGER Celebrate the birthday of Keith Richards and help raise money for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank as you enjoy music by Pointed Sticks, Rich

MUSIC

LESSONS Saxophone, flute, clarinet lessons

Learn the art of woodwind playing. All ages, all levels. In home or in studio. Dylan Cramer 604-318-1157 / dcaltosax@gmail.com

RECORDING STUDIOS M R & D Studios Vancouver's most comfortable 2"-24 track, ADAT & ProTools HD. Mastering $55/hr eng, prod. & arranger incl. 604-421-2988

REHEARSAL SPACE

Suna Studios Rehearsal M-F 6-12, Sat/Sun 12-12 East Van Hourly ($16.66/hour) & L/O, www.sunastudios.ca 604-563-5460

PANDORA'S BOX STUDIOS

Great Rooms, Pro Gear & No Stairs now with AC www.pandorasboxstudios.com

REPAIRS

BASONE • GUITAR SHOP •

EVERYTHING YOU THINK A

GUITAR

SHOP

LD BE! SHOU

318 E. 5th Ave • 604.677.0311

BASONEGUITARS.COM

Musicians

Place your FREE musicians WANTED & AVAILABLE ads by going to www.straight.com create a classified account & place your ad for Free or fax to 604-730-7016 All FREE ads are based on space availability.

VANCOUVER TAP DANCE SOCIETY

ADULTS & YOUTH TAP CLASSES Classes for youth, teen and adults- technique, choreography are designed to give you the skills to TAP DANCE. It is a great exercise in fun, movement, sociability and music and it all happens at this inviting east side iconic tap studio: 2775 E Hastings, or check us out: www.vantapdance.com

tapinfo@vantapdance.com • 604.253.0293 Classes Start Jan. 8 Try out a class for $5!!!

Hope and the Evil Doers, the Pack A.D., La Chinga, Elliot C. Way and the Wild North, Slip-Ons, the Knast, the Bad Beats, and the Ballantynes. Dec 16, 8 pm, Rickshaw Theatre (254 E. Hastings). Tix $17 (plus service charges and fees) at Red Cat, Zulu Records, and www.rickshawtheatre.com/.

don’t miss out! For up-to-the-minute, searchable Music Time Out listings, visit

www.straight.com

SNOWED IN Canadian country artist Dallas Smith headlines, with guests Andrew Hyatt and Shawn Austin. Dec 20, doors 8 pm, show 9 pm, Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville). Tix $29.95 (plus service charges and fees) at www.livenation.com/.

2UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS CONTACT Winter music festival features performances by Marshmello, Armin Van Buuren, Adventure Club, Carnage, Tchami, Rezz, Alan Walker, Mr Carmack, Malaa, Cash Cash, Ekali, Destructo, Ghastly, Henry Fong, Tokimonsta, Say My Name, Falcons, Melvv, Parker, and Whipped Cream. Dec 26-27, BC Place Stadium (777 Pacific Boulevard). Tix at www.contact-festival.com/.

CLUBS & VENUES BACKSTAGE LOUNGE Arts Club Theatre, 1585 Johnston, Granville Island, 604-6871354. Hot Jazz Jam night on Tue. 2THE X PRESIDENTS, MARK WOODYARD Dec 15 2AFRICANA-TROPICAL CHRISTMAS Dec 16

THE IMPERIAL 319 Main, 604-868-0494. Midsize music venue features live bands and DJs. 2MARK FARINA Dec 22

For singles looking for meaningful relationships. All Nationalities Welcome. Since 1987.

604-583-8800

AsianBestMassage 604.285.7755 604 285 775 55

2020 - 8888 Odlin Crescent RIC H MOND

I Spa

Aqua Spa N W PROMO NEW

$60/30 mins (incl. tips)

20437 Douglas Crescent, Langley (@ 204th St. beside HomeHardware) Front & Back Door Entrance Free Parking

(Incl. 45 min. Hot oil massage)

75 MIN

MASSAGE In a peaceful setting in Langley Because you deserve it! 9am - 8pm

Robert 604-857-9571

ORIENTAL STRONG HANDS

E. Van. New location. Kingsway area. Mature * Good ServicE & Massage *Ultra Enjoyment * Discreet shave avail. In/Out calls for good time. 9AM - 9PM 778-989-2128 JOHN

Sensual Massage

Experienced, discreet, and clean for men only by a mature male. 9 am to 10 pm in-calls only. Student rates. Burrard & 6th

Alex 778-828-4683

10AM - 10 PM Hiring

604.568.9238

$80/30 min.(incl.tips) #3-3490 Kingsway NEAR JOYCE NEXT DOOR TO SUBWAY

COCO'S THAI MASSAGE BBY. $40 & up! No F/S 10am - 8pm 604-619-7453 MATURE MAGIC TOUCH DEEP RELAXATION MON-FRI

PERSONALS

TANTRA Healing for Sexual Problems

Control Ejaculation, Maintain Erection, Cure Herpes. $120.00 herbalbathclinic.com 604-271-4148

RADIANT BODY MIND SPIRIT

INCREASE ENERGY & VITALITY ALL AGES ELIMINATE SENSUAL ISSUES FOR GOOD! TRY ME! $100hr all Dec & SENIOR Discounts

SacredTantraMassage.com RICHMOND - 2 RD / WESTMINSTER Hwy

Kitsilano 604-739-6002

★ Relieve Roadrage ★

Reg 120

NOW $

3272 W. Broadway WWW.

Monica

Massage Spa Massa

We are taking a stand on

DEPRESSION If you think you have suffered enough or know someone who has

- Please join us All Welcome FI R ST A N N UA L

The Depression Confessions December 29, 2017

Yaletown Roundhouse, Vancouver Tickets available at eventbrite.ca “The Depression Confessions Vancouver” For more information barryjsamson@gmail.com or call or text Barry at 306-281-8489

D-768 Princess St., New Westminster (@ 8th St. between 6th & 7th Ave behind New Walmart) 9:30am-10:00pm

604.523.6689 EMPLOYMENT CoverGirlEscorts.com is now Hiring. Seeking all nationalities 19+ No experience necessary.

Call 604-438-7119 Busy Agency HIRING Escorts 19+ No Exp. necessary. Start & make money TODAY! Immediate openings! 5 P ESCORTS SERVICE.

CALL 604-723-4614

$60/30 min $ (incl tips)

604-261-8818 6 04 102-5701 G r Granville St. ((@ 41ST AVE)

604.986.8650

Enough is Enough!

(New) min. (incl tips)

$60/30

COMFYSPA .CA

10AM - 8:30PM • HIRING

LOTS OF PARKING AT THE REAR

Package Deal

604-558-1608

E. 49th Ave & Victoria Dr.

604-788-7723 Divinea 8am-8pm

Gemini Studio

(& Blenheim)

Lily’s Bodycare

1050 Marine Dr. North Van

604.243.7000 | 9:30am-9pm

COMFY WELLNESS SPA

MASSAGE

SERVING NORTH VANCOUVER FOR 17 YEARS

VANCOUVER

202-1037 W.Broadway 604-739-3998 Hotel Service

CHINESE, JAPANESE & KOREAN MASSAGE

Massage DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Hiring

FALL SPECIAL BODY SCRUB

GAY PERSONALS

Angel TOUCH

604.510.6689

9am-10pm

19+ SWEET GIRLS

BODYWORK MASSAGE

TIME OUT MUSIC LISTINGS are a public service provided free of charge. 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.

IVANHOE PUB 1038 Main, 604-608-1444. Pub with live bands on weekends and open jam night Sun from 4 to 8 pm. Open at 9 am with breakfast and daily food specials. Pool tourney Thu. No cover.

GREAT ASIAN MASSAGE 604-782-9338 Surrey

M.S. Oriental Dating Service

WISE HALL 1882 Adanac, 604-254-5858. 2LIGHT ORGAN/BEATROUTE/TINY KINGDOM CHRISTMAS PARTY Dec 14 2A SUMNER BROTHERS XMAS XII Dec 15 2TOM HOLLISTON , SELINA MARTIN AND FORD PIER Dec 15 2ADVANCE BASE, NICHOLAS KRGOVICH Dec 19

FUNKY WINKER BEANS 37 W. Hastings. Evil Bastard Karaoke Experience seven days a week.

BODYWORK

Milano Dating Services Date Russian Ukranian Ladies 604-805-1342 or 604-873-8266

ROGERS ARENA 800 Griffiths Way, 604-8997400. 2KATY PERRY Feb 5 2KHALID May 2 2SHANIA TWAIN May 5 2EAGLES May 10 2HARRY STYLES Jul 6 2FOO FIGHTERS Sep 8 2SAM SMITH Sep 10

FRANKIE’S JAZZ CLUB 765 Beatty, 778727-0337. 2SIOBHAN WALSH GROUP: A TRIBUTE TO ARETHA FRANKLIN Dec 15 2NYLONS FRONTMAN MICAH BARNES’ CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK Dec 17 2WE THREE QUEENS Dec 22

THURS NIGHT JAM IN KITS Thursday Jam at Manchester Pub. All levels welcome. 700-1130pm. fb.me/jamtherapythursdays/

DATING SERVICES

RICKSHAW THEATRE 254 E. Hastings, 604-681-8915. 2DEATHMAS FESTIVUS Dec 15 2KEITHMAS VIII—A FOODBANK FUNDRAGER Dec 16 2METROPOLIS NOIR NEW YEAR’S EVE: AN EVENING OF THE TRAGICALLY HIP SONGS Dec 31

COMMODORE BALLROOM 868 Granville, 604-739-4550. 2CAM Dec 14 2SNOWED IN Dec 20 2THE FUNK HUNTERS Dec 21 2THE ORIGINAL UGLY SWEATER PARTY Dec 23

MUSICIANS WANTED

PERSONAL SERVICES

RAILWAY STAGE AND BEER CAFÉ 579 Dunsmuir, 604-564-1430. Live music Wed, Thu, Fri, and all day/night Sat. 2AURORAS, ORNAMENT AND CRIME Dec 14 2604 RECORDS CHRISTMAS PARTY Dec 15 2BLACKWOOD RENEGADES Dec 16

$60/30 mins (incl tips) (Behind Pharmacy)

604.500.9082 • 778.379.7736 $60/

BODY TREATMENT PACKAGE

30 MIN

FETISHES

IN CALLS AVAILABLE

Mz. Wendy

FANTASY, DOMINATION + ROLE PLAY

• Waxing & Facial $40 up! ◗ 7805 – 6th St. Burnaby 778.302.0968 10am-9pm

604.363.3909

w w w.mzwendy.com WEB DIRECTORY

www.straight.com

BATH HOUSES

STEAM 1

MEN’S BATH

HOUSE

BLACKOUT PARTY

SUNDAY DECEMBER 31ST STEAM 1 11AM ‘TIL 7PM SATURDAY JANUARY 13TH 11AM ‘TIL 7PM CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS

WWW.STEAM1.COM New Westminster • 430 Columbia Street

DECEMBER DECEMBER14 14––21 21//2017 2017 THE THEGEORGIA GEORGIA STRAIGHT STRAIGHT 37

CLASSIFIEDS ................................................................................................................................................................ CHINESE BEAUTY - HELEN

MASSAGE

Warm & loving - complete body massage. All incl. Reasonable low price. R/mond new home.

Diamond Bodycare

20 E/Pender $60

10am - 2am. 778-322-1583

778-323-0002

Sexy Thai Girl Jessica Burnaby 604-336-4601

BEST MASSAGE IN TOWN

Best Body Rub $110 Happy Hour

604-568-0123

MERIDIAN SPA LTD. New Staff! Relaxation Massage. 604-985-4969 HIRING

(All included) New 22 yrs Busty & Petite. Private.

604-270-6891

Emax JAPANESE Massage $100

4095 Oak St. vancouver 778.321.2209

604-568-5255

City

30 min / $30

3671 EAST HASTINGS NOW HIRING

12551 Vickers Way & Bridgeport Rd, Rmd

ORGANIC TOUCH HEALTH CENTRE

HIRING NEW GIRLS

HIGH CLASS FEMALE ESCORTS & INTIMATE COMPANIONS

(incl. tips)

than

BEST

3286 Cambie St.

3488 MAIN ST. @ 19TH AVE

& W. 17th, Van. 10am – 10pm

10 AM TO 10 PM

dragonspa.ca dragonspa a .ca

NOW HIRING

management

RAINBOW MASSAGE

604 998.7831

$ 70 /30 mins

#1 Friendly Service

UNDER 15244 Russell Ave. White Rock

NEW GIRLS

Variety of Masseuses

BETTER

604 879 5769

NEW

#3 - 3003 Kingsway @ Rupert, Van. - N/E Corner

Lotus Beauty Spa

PROSPER

$80/30 MIN (INCL. TIPS)

604.430.3060

4969 Duchess St. Van. Just off Kingsway Between Earles and Slocan NOW HIRING CHINESE, THAI, JAPANESE, VIETNAMESE & CAUCASIAN GIRLS

New Star Massage

10:30am-8pm Daily 5336 Victoria Dr. Vancouver A/C AVAILABLE 604.327.8800

Sa Sa Massage

NOW HIRING

604.872.8938

Rose Body Massage 49 E. Broadway @ Quebec St. open 7days/9am-midnight

604-568-2248 NOW HIRING

SPASIA WELLNESS centre

VARIETY OF GIRLS (19+) V.I.P. ROOM $80/30 MIN INCL. TIPS

604.433.6833

3519 KINGSWAY, VAN NEAR BOUNDARY • HIRING

GRAND OPENING!

GRAND OPENING

SPA PACKAGES

Grand Opening • $30/30min.

(Incl. tips)

Open from 10am

604-780-6268 INTERVIEWS DAILY C OV E RGI R LE S C ORT S .C OM

$60/30 MINS $80/45 MINS

HIRING

$100 1 HOUR

3468 E.Hastings/Skeena. Van. Front & Back door entrance. Free Parking

T i f fa n y ’S 19 +

NOW HIRING

XMAS

COUPLES WELCOME SPECIALS STAGS 24 HOURS PARTIES O OUTCALL SERVICE ENTERTAINERS

HOTEL or RESIDENCE

GFE ESCORTS

604-723-4614

NO EXTRA CHARGES NON-RUSHED SERVICE

778.379.6828

3041 Main St & 14th Ave

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

2583 Kingsway, Vancouver 604.428.2002 INDEPENDENT CHINESE PLEASURE PROVIDER

FREE BIRTHDAY MASSAGE (WITHIN ONE WEEK)

Hot Stone Promo 50% OFF $25/45Mins $68/45Mins (Incl. tip) $10 OFF Special 4 Hands (1 Girl Free) $25/30Mins $38/45mins

For polite gentlemen Accompanied shower Submissive or curious also welcome Discreet,North Burnaby location Parking available Actual Recent Photo. Fluent in English.

ANGELA

778-317-3888

8642 Granville & 71 Ave., Van. OPEN TILL MIDNIGHT 5 Min. from the Airport • Near Richmond, Marine Dr. (70 & 71st) beside 7/11 • Free Parking

Grand Opening

604-568-6601

PANTERA SPA Good Price, Good Service D931 Brunette Ave. 7 Days a Week

778.383.0254 COMPANION

World Class Breasts

Genuinely Spectacular NATURAL G CUP! Come visit Hooter Heaven! Canada's #1 Erotic Destination.

Private 778-838-9094 Cotton Candy Kelly....as sweet as it sounds, as soft as it tastes! All inclusive experience! Call for details! 778-714-0824

Platinum Club $28=45MINS 50% OFF: $25=30MINS $38=60MINS TEL 604-564-1333 • 5531 Victoria Dr Vancouver

Fully Air-Conditioned

604.436.3131 www.greatpharaoh.com

5-3490 Kingsway, Van. ESTABLISHED 1993 HIRING: 778.893.4439

38 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

platinumclub.net 10am -1pm 30mins 30 s /$55

Serving Van. for 19 years! Best Experience! Best Service! Best Choice! Steam Room and Sauna! Free underground parking. NOW

We’re Hiring 426 HOM 42 HOMER MER

604.683.2582

Best Relaxation EAST VANCOUVER

5281 VICTORIA DR.

10am - 10pm

604 . 998 . 4885 HIRING G

HIRING ®

spa

2070 2070 7 W. W. 10 10thh A Ave v V ve Van an an

60 4 7 604 738 38 3 3302 3 02

PHOENIX MASSAGE

New Back Door Entrance from Underground Parking

1st Time Visit FREE HIRING

FOR NEW CLIENTS Mon - Fri 12pm - 6pm

2263 KINGSWAY

FREE PARKING HOTEL SERVICE

NANAIMO

6043770028

savage love As a 36-year-old

straight woman with autism, I am often misidentified as lesbian because my social signalling must read as masculine. I am not bothered by this. However, it is annoying when someone who should know better thinks I would hide it if I were LGBTQ. I’m very direct and honest—sometimes to my detriment—and the idea that I would hide something so fundamental about myself is abhorrent to me. I don’t consider myself disabled; I am different than most people but not broken. But as a person with a diagnosed “disability” that includes an inability to accurately read and display social cues, I know that a person’s perception of your sexual orientation is defi nitely affected by social signalling. I enjoy your podcast and I feel like I am educating myself about how neurotypical people think. But I wish there was as good a source of advice for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I have been searching, but a lot of the advice for people with ASD is written by people who are not on the spectrum and focuses on passing for neurotypical. > NOT DISABLED, NOT LESBIAN, NOT TYPICAL

I shared your letter with Steve Silberman, the award-winning author of the New York Times bestseller NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity, NDNLNT. I really have nothing to add to his response—your question is outside my supposed areas of quasi expertise—so I’m going to let Steve take it from here. “I’m not surprised to hear that NDNLNT is more annoyed by people

thinking she’s in the closet than by them misidentifying her as gay. In my experience, a passionate concern for social justice—and compassion for other stigmatized and marginalized people—is so common among folks on the spectrum that it’s practically diagnostic. Furthermore, there seems to be an interesting overlap between being autistic and having a nonstandard gender identity—whether you define yourself as gay, bi, trans, straight but not cis, or nonbinary. “My autistic friends share NDNLNT’s concern about the lack of good resources for autistic people who want to learn more about the nuances of sex, dating, and gender identity. As she points out, many of the advice books written specifically for people on the spectrum take the approach that the route to success in this arena involves acting as much like a neurotypical as possible, which just adds stress to an already stressful situation. They also tend to be tediously heteronormative and drearily vanilla-centric. “But there are exceptions. My autistic friends recommend Life and Love: Positive Strategies for Autistic Adults by Zosia Zaks, The Aspie Girl’s Guide to Being Safe With Men by Debi Brown, and the anthology What Every Autistic Girl Wishes Her Parents Knew, edited by Emily Paige Ballou, Kristina Thomas, and Sharon daVanport. While not autism-specific, The Ultimate Guide to Sex and Disability also comes highly recommended. My favourite autism blog, Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism, runs frank and fascinating pieces like “Autism and Orgasm”. Another place to look for useful advice is in presentations by autistic self-advocates like Lindsey Nebeker, Stephen Mark

> BY DAN SAVAGE Shore, and Amy Gravino (whose TEDx talk “Why Autism Is Sexier Than You Think It Is” is on YouTube).” Dan here: thank you so much, Steve. And to everyone else: there’s more about Steve and his work at his website (www.stevesilberman.com/), and I strongly recommend following him on Twitter (@stevesilberman), where he daily battles Republicanism, ignorance, and hatred. (I’m sorry, was that redundant?)

My fiancé and I are getting straight-married this summer. My fiancé’s best man is in a polyamorous relationship—which is not the problem. The issue is that we like only one of his boyfriends. Our best man moved in with the boyfriend we like two years ago. The other boyfriend is new (six months), younger, and immature. Whenever we’ve seen the three of them, his new boyfriend was fighting with one of them. I don’t want our best man to feel like we are being rude in excluding his new partner, but I don’t want there to be drama for our best man at our wedding.

new boyfriend being excluded (and your best man incurring his wrath at home) or the new boyfriend being included (and your best man having to put up with his bullshit at the wedding). Then +1 or +2 accordingly.

I’m an attractive 30-year-old woman. Recently, I was stuck in a packed subway car. I squeezed in next to the best-looking straphanger I could find, faced him like we were slow-dancing, pressed my tits into him, and straddled his leg. We were so close, my head was over his shoulder— I could feel an electrical charge running through his body—and we stayed that way until I got to my stop. Upon parting, I whispered, “You’re very attractive.” And he whispered back, “So are you.” I’ve pulled this on crowded trains a few other times. They’re my favourite erotic memories, and it sure seemed like the guys enjoyed these experiences. But Charlie Rose thought he was “exploring shared feelings”. So I wanted to ask: am I a groper? > TIRESOME REALITY ARROGATES INTIMATE NEARNESS

> BEING RUDE ISN’T DAT EASY

Hmm. A new addition to a poly relationship who creates drama and makes close friends of the original pair uncomfortable? I’d put the odds of their third being in the picture six months from now at zero. So this is a problem that will most likely solve itself. But you could always ask your friend what he would like you to do. You’re not worried about the new boyfriend ruining your wedding, BRIDE; you’re worried about him ruining the day for your best man. So ask your best man what would be worse—the

near-constant unwanted sexual attention, we aren’t subjected to epidemic levels of sexual violence, and consequently we don’t live with the daily fear that we could be the victims of sexual violence at any time and in any place.” So a man on the receiving end of your behaviour—even a man who felt annoyed, offended, or threatened—is going to experience your actions very differently than a woman subjected to the same actions by a man. A man is unlikely to feel threatened; a woman is unlikely to feel anything else. While the men you’ve done this to seemed to enjoy it—and we only have your word to go on—that doesn’t make your subway perving okay. There are definitely men out there, TRAIN, who would be upset and/or angered by your actions. Me, for instance—and not (just) because I’m gay. (I don’t like being hugged by strangers. I would hate being humped by a random perv on the train.) There are also men out there who have been the victims of sexual violence—far, far fewer men than women, of course, but you can’t tell by looking at a guy whether he’d be traumatized by your opportunistic attentions. Even if your hump-dar (like gaydar, but for humping) was perfect and you never did this to a man who didn’t enjoy it, you’re normalizing sexual assault on subways and buses, TRAIN, thereby making these spaces less safe for women than they already are. Knock it the fuck off. -

Yup. Some people would say the obvious response—the obvious way to open your eyes to what’s so wrong about your actions—would be to ask: “If a dude did this to a woman on a public conveyance, would that be okay?” But a woman seeking out the hottest guy on the subway and pressing her tits into his chest and straddling his leg exists in an entirely different context than a man doing the same to a woman. As I wrote recently on my blog in the Savage Love Letter of the Day: “Men don’t move through their lives deflecting

Give the gift of the magnum Savage Lovecast at savagelovecast.com ! Email: mail@savagelove.net. Follow Dan on Twitter @fakedansavage . ITMFA.org.

............................................................................................................................................................... CLASSIFIEDS SPECIAL! THURSDAY & FRIDAY BEAUTIFUL OLDER WOMAN NEW HOT ASIAN GIRLS www.classymiko.com PHONE SERVICES 36D - 26 - 36. 36th@ Victoria

604-671-2345

NEW, SEXY, HOT & YOUNG. 19+ 3517 Kingsway, Vancouver

Richmond. 24 Hrs.I In/Out calls

604-558-0228

778-960-7875 or 604-725-9903

NEW HOT ASIAN GIRLS No Restrictions. Good Service! 778-960-7875

BEST MASSAGE Daily Different New Girls! Discount Price! 3322 Main St. 604-872-1702

ª ª ª REASONABLE RATES ª ª ª In/Out calls. Early risers welcome!

SOCCER★MOM!

www.straight.com

Kayla 604-873-2551

TILL 3AM! 604-757-1727

GENTLEMEN

Fun Classy Blonde Beauty

$80/30 min F/S! Joyce Station

778-251-5367 Sweet & Petite Hot Mature ª Female loves to pamper! ª

Joyce & Kingsway & Vancouver 24 Hrs.I In/Out calls

DISCREET ATTRACTIVE MATURE EUROPEAN LADY OFFERS DELIGHTFUL RELAXATION SESSIONS.

In calls & Out calls locally Private upscale condo

604-451-0175 EuropeanLady.ca

funlovinxoxo.me 604-773-8876

Beat the ban.

No Restrictions. Good Service!

FREE 2 TRY LIVE CHAT! 1-855-538-8866 1-900-783-5446 MOBILE #4565

NationwidePersonals.ca/call

covergirlescorts.com www.stress-awaybodycare.ca

WWW.FOXDEN.CA www.platinumclub.net

WEBSITES

www.greatpharaoh.com

www.sacredtantramassage.com

www.stripperplaymates.com

soccermom.escortbook.com

www.CarmanFox.com

TREAT YYOURSELF T S YUM!

Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese & Philippines Girls (19+) In/Out calls

604-600-6558 GORGEOUS BEAUTY Gentle & Sweet, Petite and Exquisite. Local, Elegant Super Service!

Call 778-926-1000. Van East.

Near Oakridge Mall

Chinese.w41st & Cambie. In call & Hotels. 24/7

778-710-8828 604-957-1030 MING, Nice & Mature.

R i l e y

For more ideas on recycling at work call 437-GVRD

www.EuropeanLady.ca

NEW..NEW..NEW..MASSAGE

Corrugated cardboard, newspapers and ofﬁce papers are banned from landﬁlls. Aren’t you glad you’re saving money by recycling?

Canada has one the highest rates of multiple sclerosis in the world.

www.straight.com

Celebrate the Georgia Straight’s

36D-29-36 7FF

Y FUN & FR IENDL

INCALL or OUT • BUR/COQ/VAN

funlovinxoxo.me 604.773.8876

778.316.2660

TRANSEXUALDREAMSCAPE.COM

Open desires... Hidden identities...

LIVE. DISCREET. UNCENSORED.

1-604-639-3040

Seattle: 206-576-1825 | Victoria, BC: 250-220-3334

GET YOUR FREE TRIAL TODAY Ahora en Español/18+

More local numbers: 1.800.550.0618 interactivemale.com

Try FREE Now: 604-639-3011 More Local Numbers: 1-800-700-6666

redhotdateline.com 18+ DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT 39

Freedom from

Addiction we are not just treating addiction we are treating people...

MIND, BODY & SPIRIT The More You Know About Addiction Recovery, The More We Make Sense The Program: Our exceptional success rate sets us apart from other recovery centres, because our long term program gives the brain the opportunity to heal, but that is only the beginning. Program participants also: · Advance their education · Receive extensive career training · Develop leadership & social skills · Build strong character

The Cost: The John Volken Academy is a registered not-for-profit society funded by private charitable foundations, friends of the Academy, supporting businesses and government. Therefore, except for a one-time intake fee, the program is free. To be eligible you must be: · Committed to change your life · Between the ages of 18-32 · Able to participate in the program

Program Participants Adopt a Whole New Life-style

Vancouver, BC. Oct. 21, 2014

His Holiness the Dalai Lama honored our founder John Volken with the Dalai Lama Humanitarian Award for effectively changing lives.

6911 King George Blvd. Surrey, BC. V3W 5A1

Phone Today

Toll-Free for More Informaiton

40 THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT DECEMBER 14 – 21 / 2017

604-592-2050