Arts Preview Winter 2015

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WINTER 2015

T H U R SDAY, N OV E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

Dance as a natural expression of the human being is liberating.

MEDHI WALERSKI, CHOREOGRAPHER Ballet BC Dancer Tara Williamson

PHOTO: MICHAEL SLOBODIAN

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Going with the flow Producer Felix Fung, who runs Little Red Sounds, is behind some of the most compelling music to come out of Vancouver in recent years.

PHOTO DAN TOULGOET

NIKI HOPE nikihope@shaw.ca

Little Red Sounds owner keeps finger on the pulse and mixing board of local music scene

“You’re going to get addicted to this thing” were the last words Felix Fung ever heard from the guy at the music shop on Fraser Street where he bought a Gibson guitar and a four-track recorder more than 20 years ago.

The guy wasn’t talking about the guitar. He meant

the recording device, and it might have been an omen of sorts because ever since Fung got his hot hands on it, he’s been obsessed with capturing the magic of sound.

“That [four-track] was the main instrument for us,” says Fung, who runs Little Red

Sounds, where he’s produced the darlings of Vancouver’s indie-music scene: the Pretty’s, Girlfriends and Boyfriends, Les Chaussettes and the Ballantynes. The latter’s recently released Fung production, Dark Drives, Life Signs, is getting heaps of accolades from local music press.

In the digital age, where music can be scrubbed clean of imperfections with the press of a button, Fung likes to keep it a little dirty. He follows the old masters who turned on the

tape to capture the raw energy of live music.

“I don’t mess with it,” Fung says, describing his process.

“At the same time, everyone who works here understands that we are trying to capture a moment rather than perfection.”

While he does some electronic music and layered singersongwriter recordings, when Fung’s working with bands, he doesn’t overcook it.

“Everything you hear, done here, at the heart of it, there is

three or four people making something happen in a room together,” Fung explains.

“It’s a performance — it’s a connection between people.”

From the black-and-white pictures of Serge Gainsbourg and a young Ringo Starr, to the vintage amps and guitars that line a wall, the Hastings Street studio is the kind of space that makes you want to hang out and create.

Fung, wearing red denim pants, a worn-in Levi’s jacket, his hair pulled back in a pony, revealing short sideburns, reigns over it with a quiet assurance.

What he wants is to create a space for musicians where they can shake off the outside world and feel like authentic artists, even if they have day jobs.

ÒItÕs a performance ÐÐ itÕs a connection between people.Ó

“I don’t want the cellphone warehouse manager to feel like the cellphone warehouse manager when they’re playing, and I don’t treat them that way,” Fung explains. “I don’t want to suggest that it’s a momentary dream. I want to show them that they can live this way forever and still take care of their rent. This is who I see them as. This is who they really are.”

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Fung didn’t start playing seriously until his late teens, but loved music from a young age. He remembers being six years old driving around Richmond in the backseat of the family Cutlass while Juice Newton purred “Angel of the Morning” on AM radio. He sat captivated by the melody and the sentiment.

When he was 12, his dad bought him The Beatles 20 Greatest Hits record, which had a profound impact on Fung, who cites Mickie Most, Phil Spector, Willie Mitchell, George Martin, Tchad Blake and Brian Eno as his influences.

Some of his favourite recordings — among many — are anything from the Beatles to Sun Records.

“I find it so futuristic and weird,” he says about those recordings. “Sun Records, all of that slap-back delay and the weirdness they did with all of those records, is the same to me as dub records, is the same to me as shoe gaze, is the same to me as Phil Spector. The manipulation of reality to make a feeling or to get a point across is one in the same.”

Leaning back on a red couch in his Little Red Sounds studio, Fungs reflects, “That’s all I’ve ever wanted, is to be part of that conversation.

I don’t need to stick out, but to jump into the river and flow with it and see where it goes.” @nikimhope

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WINTER 2015

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Vancouver TheatreSports League celebrates milestone Executive director Jay Ono shares insights into three decades of laughter

As Vancouver TheatreSports League celebrates its 35th anniversary, executive director Jay Ono reflects on his 32 years with the popular improv group.

Q

What are the main changes you’ve seen in the styles used by improv comedians? In the audience?

A

In terms of style, I have noticed there is more emphasis on character development, emotional commitment and transformation. There is also a great diversity among the styles and philosophies within the art form and VTSL. Some improvisers are more verbal than others. Some are more physical than others.

They come from different backgrounds as well — standup, sketch, theatre, film and TV. Some are passionate and excel at short-form improv

and others are committed to long-form improv.

As for the audience, when I first got involved with Vancouver TheatreSports, the crowd seemed a lot younger — like doing shows at a college or university. Now our audiences are very diverse and the age of the people who attend our shows has really opened up. Whether it’s age, sexual orientation, ethnicity, etc. The more diverse the audience mix, the more diverse the work onstage is.

What hasn’t changed is that every night audiences can expect a new show as all our shows are unscripted and

we always rely on creative and fun suggestions from the audience to help move along the onstage action.

Q

How has technology and digital media helped with the shows?

Vancouver TheatreSports executive director Jay Ono holds up cards audience members use to rank performances.

A

Certainly for our sound improvisers the advancement of technology has enabled them to contribute more to shows. In the early days, all sound effects and music was all on cassette.

There is only so much you can put on cassettes and then there is the matter of cuing them up to the right place at the right time. Nowadays they use hard drive replay systems and computers, so to get a certain sound or song, they just need to type in the title and the effect is cued in seconds. The sound and lighting improviser adds another unexpected — and unscripted — element to each scene. They have the

Christmas in the Orpheum Choirs with Brass and Harp 8pm | Friday, December 4, 2015

Orpheum Theatre Vancouver Chamber Choir | Pacifica Singers Vancouver Youth Choir | Vivian Chen, Harp Brass Ensemble | Jon Washburn, Conductor Nothing says Christmas more than choirs, and this concert brings you the city’s finest, singing the glorious voice-and-brass music of Gabrieli and Pinkham, intimate moods of Derek Healey’s new set of carols with harp, and a grand sing-along of traditional favourites, as the audience joins in with the choirs and brass ensemble. Venite! Venite!

1.855.985.ARTS (2787) vancouverchamberchoir.com

PHOTO DAN TOULGOET

ability to make or break a scene or show.

Q

What has been your most memorable moment(s) since joining VTSL?

A

A big moment that stands out for me was when we were presented with a cheque for $489,000 from Canadian Heritage at the opening gala of the Improv Centre in 2010.

The funding allowed us to have a performance space of our very own. It’s an incredible theatre for improv and we are extremely grateful.

Q

Any really embarrassing moments you’d like to share?

Q

A Q

A

I have many. Do you have a few hours?

Do you have a family?

If so, what do your kids think about what you do?

A

I have a 10-year-old boy who thinks I have the best job in the world. At the opening night of Throwback TheatreSports, he whispered to me, “Dad, you have the best actors ever!”

What is your favourite thing about improv and VTSL?

My favourite thing about my job is creating opportunities for people that have the same passion as I do. There are many aspects of improv that can enrich people’s perspective on life. Being in the moment, taking risks, tapping into your creative self and building on the ideas of others are just a few things we learn from improv.

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER T H U R SDAY, N OV E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 5

Thursday Dec 3rd, 5:00 - 7:30pm

1905 OGDEN AVE, VANCOUVER, V6J 1A3 | 604.257.8300 | WWW.VANMARITME.COM

VANCOUVER WELSH MEN’S CHOIR

SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS

Thurs. Dec 3rd, 7.30pm, St.Andrew’s-Wesley United Church, Burrard & Nelson

ALL TICKET PROCEEDS to the SALVATION ARMY with the CHT Salvation Army Band

Sat. Dec 5th, 7.30pm, Shaughnessy Heights United Church, 1550 W 33rd Ave. with Magee Secondary Chamber Choir

TICKETS:

THEATRE

Morna Edmundson, Artistic Director

Chez Nous Christmas with Elektra with special guest jazz vocalist Dee Daniels

bassist Jodi Proznick Burnaby Central Secondary Women’s Choir, director Carrie Taylor

YOU WILL REMEMBER ME A deeply personal and moving new play about a family and memory from Francois Archambault, one of Quebec’s most compelling writers.

Nov. 17-28 at Vancouver East Cultural Centre. tickets.thecultch.com TWELVE ANGRY JURORS A young man faces the death penalty. His fate hangs in the hands of 12 jurors. Eleven are ready to get on with it and pronounce him guilty. One wants to ask some questions and re-examine the evidence.

Nov. 18-29 at InterUrban Gallery. theatreintheraw.ca

ITÕS A WONDERFUL LIFE George Bailey performs countless good deeds for friends and townsfolk in Bedford Falls, yet all that seems to count for naught. When he finds himself at his most woeful moment, his guardian angel Clarence Odbody swoops in to remind him that faith, hope and family truly make life wonderful.

Nov. 19-Dec. 26 at Granville Island Stage. artsclub.com HANSEL AND GRETEL: AN EAST VAN PANTO Theatre Replacement brings back An East Van Panto, stepping way off the beaten path for this year’s edition with the weird and wonderful tale of a butt-kicking

Saturday, November 28, 2015

2pm New Westminster Christian Reformed Church, 8255 13th Avenue, Burnaby 7:30pm Ryerson United Church, 2195 West 45th Ave, Vancouver

Tickets: $30 adults | $25 seniors | $15 Students with valid ID

ticketstonight.ca 1.877.840.0457 (service charges apply)

Tickets available at

More information at elektra.ca or by calling

604.739.1255 Martha Lou Henley Charitable Foundation

PHOTO: DAVID COOPER

PEOPLE Meet Dorothy Stacpoole, impoverished aristocrat and owner of a decaying stately home, desperate to raise some cash to keep things going.

The National Trust beckons but other less reputable offers tempt. Until Nov. 29 at Jericho Arts Centre. unitedplayers.com

AGNES OF GOD Summoned to a convent, Dr. Martha Livingstone, a court-appointed psychiatrist, is charged with assessing the sanity of a novice accused of murdering her newborn.

Nov. 19-29 at PAL Studio Theatre. palstudiotheatre.com

Adult $27, Senior $25, Student $10 Online from vwmc.ca (no fees) or call 604-878-1190 From any choir member or at the door

ArtsClub, Christmas Story

brother and sister team, a cute little cannibal witch and their journey into the wilds of the East Van wilderness, to deliver a fantastic holiday treat.

Dec. 2-Jan. 3 at York Theatre. tickets.thecultch.com UNSEXÕD In a time when men played all the roles in theatre, two boy-players fight it out for the role of Lady Macbeth in Shakespeare’s new play.

Both will do anything to catch the eye, and affections, of the playwright. Dec. 3 at PAL Studio Theatre. alchemytheatre.ca A CHRISTMAS CAROL: ON THE AIR Ready for Christmas? Neither is Scrooge. A tale as old as time is getting a new life, transformed

into a live 1940s radio show

by Peter Church. Tapping into the listener’s imagination, this re-telling of the classic holiday story presents a show bigger than what can be confined to the limits of the stage.

Dec. 4-Jan. 2 at Pacific Theatre. pacifictheatre.org JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH When James is shipped off to live with his wretched aunts, he longs for a real family.

All seems lost until he discovers a magical peach inhabited by fantastical creatures. Dec. 5-Jan. 3 at the Waterfront Theatre, Granville Island. carouseltheatre.ca THE WIZARD OF OZ A wicked family musical of the story you know and love as Dorothy and Toto, off to see the wizard, journey down the yellow brick road through the magical land of Oz. Dec. 10-Jan. 3 at Gateway Theatre. gatewaytheatre.com

Hansel and Gretel An East Van Panto, Maiko Yamamoto, Dawn Petten PHOTO: TIM MATHESON

T H U R SDAY, N OV E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach

PHOTO: TIM MATHESON

Words and Music by asek and Justin Paul Benj Pasek

Book by Timothy Allen McDonald

Based on the book James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE When the rambunctious boy Max is sent to bed without supper, he finds himself transported to a faraway island inhabited by mighty Wild Things.

Max earns their respect and becomes their king, setting off on a playful romp through the night. Dec. 18-20 at Performance Works. carouseltheatre.ca.

A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE MUSICAL Based on the popular film, this festive musical tells a tale familiar to anyone who has ever been a kid: the dogged pursuit of acquiring a desired toy. It’s the 1940s and for 9-year-old Ralphie nothing under the tree will satisfy — save for an Official Red Ryder carbine-action BB gun. Until Dec 27 at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage. artsclub.com

ArtsClub, ItÕs aWonderful Life

THE MOTHERF***ER WITH THE HAT This gritty New York tale masterfully combines earnest storytelling and uninhibited humour, taking on addiction, sex and honour as a fresh out of jail convict tries to navigate the straight and narrow.

Jan. 16-30 at Firehall Arts Centre. firehallartscentre.ca PuSH FESTIVAL A Vancouver signature event, the three-week festival presents ground-breaking work in the live performing arts, expanding horizons with work that is visionary, genre-bending, multi-disciplined, startling and original from artists both local and international.

Jan. 19-Feb. 7. pushfestival.ca

PHOTO: DAVID COOPER

MIXED NUTS: TRADITION WITH A TWIST Families and kids of all ages can enjoy AUDC’s modern and engaging retelling of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker.

Mixed Nuts is more than just a ballet, with a variety of dance styles from hip-hop to ballroom to the classic grand pas-de-deux.

Dec. 18-19 at the Vancouver Playhouse. artsumbrella.com

triumphant summer of their lives. Jan. 12-17 at Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Vancouver. broadway.com

COMPANY This musical comedy is from legendary Broadway composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim.

The plot revolves around Bobby (a single man unable to commit fully to a steady relationship), the five married couples who are his best friends and his three girlfriends.

Jan. 22- Feb. 14 at Jericho Arts Centre. unitedplayers.com

DIRTY DANCING Broadway Across Canada presents this unprecedented live experience exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensational dancing in the story of two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds who come together in the most challenging and

LEFTOVERS Writer and comedian Charlie Demers uses his stand-up as a storytelling tour-de-force in this production, a complex and moving story about personal loss, ideology and why the dreams of millions have gone unfulfilled in this world we’ve created. Jan. 26-30 at 8 p.m. at York Theatre. tickets.thecultch.com

at The Waterfront Theatre on Granville Island

www.carouseltheatre.ca | 604.685.6217

...DIDN’T SEE THAT COMING ORIGINAL SONGS & STORIES WITH BEVERLEY ELLIOTT Directed by Kerry Sandomirsky • Musical Direction

by Bill Costin • A HappyGoodThings Production

NOVEMBER 12–21, 2015 • Studio B

FEATURING

Beverley Elliott the star of ABC’s hit TV show

Once Upon A Time!

604.270.1812 gatewaytheatre.com

“A terrific show by an amazingly generous performer. The icing on this cake is her gorgeous voice.”

JO LEDINGHAM, VANCOUVER COURIER

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Alberta BalletÕs The Nutcracker

THE (POST) MISTRESS This fun and quirky onewoman cabaret-style show is the surprising story of MarieLouise — Lovely, Ont.’s resident postal worker.

Feb. 4-28 at Goldcorp Stage at The BMO Theatre Centre. artsclub.com TALKING STICK FESTIVAL The annual celebration of aboriginal culture through art, music, story, drumming, dance and performance is an ever-evolving repertoire of contemporary work from today’s artists.

Feb. 16-29. fullcircle.ca BETROFFENHEIT This new creation by two of Canada’s most celebrated companies is an innovative, boundary-stretching hybrid of theatre and dance, exploring the liminal space one returns to again and again after shock and bewilderment encompass you in the wake of disaster.

Feb. 24-27 at Vancouver Playhouse. kiddpivot.org

DANCE FLAMENCUBANA! A journey showcasing the rich music that has resulted from centuries of Latin American and Spanish contact; from boleros, salsa, and rumba to traditional, jazz and pop Flamenco.

Featuring world-renowned Spanish artists, Bailaora Pastora Galván, guitarist Antón Jimenez, and Pianist Rosario Montoya. Nov 14 at the Chan Centre. flamencubana.com

THE 10TH BIENNIAL DANCE IN VANCOUVER Dance In Vancouver celebrates the energy and originality of our contemporary dance scene with four days of performances, showcasing some of British Columbia’s most exciting companies.

Nov. 18-22. thedancecentre.ca FROZEN Elsa, Anna, Olaf and Kristoff strap on their skates and take to the ice to magically whisk you away into the wintery

Ziyian Kwan and James Gnam, Dumb Instrument Dance PHOTO: CHRIS RANDLE

Part of

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Opening Reception

Thursday, November 19, 2015, 5- 7 PM Featuring Carla Shirley on Communicating Through Our Intuition

Gallery Show & Art Sales

Thurs. & Fri., November 19 & 20, 5 –10 PM Sat. & Sun. November 21 & 22, 11 AM – 6 PM

Expressive Arts Workshops

with artists Carla Shirley & Monique Wells Sat., November 21 & Sun., November 22, 1-3 PM RSVP to Jackie at jnovik@thekettle.ca or 604-251-0999

Art & artists fighting stigma against mental illness “Toward Granville Island” by Mike Levin

THANK YOU!

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ALL EVENTS WILL BE AT: KETTLE ON HASTINGS

1784 East Hastings Street, Vancouver (1-Block East of Commercial Drive)

PRESENTING SPONSOR

TASHANNA DUCHARME MEMORIAL ART FUND

WINTER 2015

DARK SISTERS Religious and political tension, media hysteria and the lives of six women facing threats to their children and their way of life is what lies at the heart of Nico Muhly’s opera about life in a fundamentalist community.

Nov. 26-Dec. 12 at Vancouver Playhouse. vancouveropera.ca

INTRODUCING THE NEXT GENERATION Pianist Talisa Blackman is 26 years of age and has performed with some of the top orchestras from North America and Russia. The repertoire has been

T H U R SDAY, N OV E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

chosen with Talisa’s lyrical and flexible playing in mind.

Nov. 26-27 at West Point Grey United Church. vettamusic.com AN OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS The Kay Meek Centre presents a double bill of two great shows to help you feel warm and fuzzy this holiday season, featuring Grandpa ‘n’ Me followed by a Special Christmas Concert with vocalist Cayla Brooke accompanied by Bill Sample on piano.

Dec. 10-12, 8 p.m. at Kay Meek Centre. kaymeekcentre.com

A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS Metro Vancouver’s most beloved holiday music tradition brought to you by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra plays to sold out houses in Burnaby, the North Shore, Surrey, Delta and downtown Vancouver.

Dec 10- 20. vancouversymphony.ca SALUTE TO VIENNA A New Year’s concert to celebrate the ageless beauty of Viennese music with a program of Strauss waltzes and sweeping melodies

accompanied by costumed dancers for a presentation of romantic vignettes. Jan. 1 at 2:30 p.m. at Orpheum Theatre. vancouversymphony.ca AS HEARD ON TV Stroll down memory lane with conductor Steven Reineke, and actress, singer and impressionist Christina Bianco from Broadway’s Tony and Tina’s Wedding and London’s West End production of Forbidden Broadway.

Jan 8-9 at the Orpheum Theatre. vancouversymphony.ca

Flamencubana Pastora Galv‡n

world of Arendelle with dazzling special effects as you sing and dance along.

Nov. 25-29 at Pacific Coliseum. disneyonice.com

GOH BALLETÕS THE NUTCRACKER This heart-warming production is sure to delight audiences of all ages with more than 200 glittering costumes, dramatic sets and valuable lessons — all danced to Tchaikovsky’s memorable score performed live by members of the Vancouver Opera Orchestra.

Dec. 17-22 at the Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts (777 Homer St.). gohnutcracker.com

THE NUTCRACKER Ballet BC presents the timeless holiday classic in which a child’s favourite Christmas toy comes to life and whisks her away to a magical kingdom, performed by the Alberta Ballet. Dec. 29-31 at Queen Elizabeth Theatre. balletbc.com

CLASSICAL CARMINHO AND SARA TAVARES Portuguese singer-songwriters co-headline this show presented by the Chan Centre for Performing Arts at UBC. Nov. 21 at 8 p.m. at Chan Shun Concert Hall. chancentre.com

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The Nutcracker Choreography Edmund Stripe Music Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Music Performed by The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Set & Costume Design Zack Brown Lighting Design Pierre Lavoie

Dec 29 30 Dec 30 31

7:30pm 2:00pm

Queen Elizabeth Theatre balletbc.com | ticketmaster.ca GOLD SEASON SPONSOR

HOTEL SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSORS

SUPPORT FOR BALLET BC HAS BEEN GENEROUSLY PROVIDED BY

flamencubana.com

presented by Dove Innovation & Management Group Inc.

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ARTISTS OF ALBERTA BALLET. PHOTO BY DARREN MAKOIVICHUK.

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A Dylan Thomas Christmas A Child‘s Christmas in Wales 8pm | Friday, December 18, 2015 Shaughnessy Heights United Church

Russell Roberts, Narrator | Vancouver Chamber Choir | Vancouver Youth Choir Carrie Tennant & Jon Washburn, Conductors

VSO Christina Bianco

The Vancouver Chamber Choir’s signature performance of A Child’s Christmas in Wales (Dylan Thomas) with our favourite Welshman - Russell Roberts - narrating.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Finding the True Meaning 8pm | Saturday, December 19, 2015 Shaughnessy Heights United Church

Pippa Johnstone, Joel Garner and Amitai Marmorstein, Actors | Daniel Reynolds, Piano Jodi Proznick, Bass | Vancouver Chamber Choir | Vancouver Youth Choir Carrie Tennant and Jon Washburn, Conductors A lively concert performance of A Charlie Brown Christmas with actors, jazz duo and choirs.

1.855.985.ARTS (2787) vancouverchamberchoir.com

Music in the Morning proudly presents:

Juilliard415

November 18–20, 2015 Coffee 10am Concert 10:30am

WINTER HARP Classical and Celtic harps combine with flutes, rare medieval instruments, percussion, poetry and song to wrap you snugly in the silken cloak of Christmas. Medieval carols, rare carols and familiar carols will have your heart singing. Dec. 19 at St. Andrews Wesley. winterharp.com 20TH CENTURY MUSIC TO LOVE In the first half of the 20th century, Russia and its neighbours that created the Soviet Union produced an astonishing variety of music.

“Suite Italienne” for violin and piano was composed in Stravinsky’s early neo-classical period. Based on an 18th century play and incidental VSO Vadim Gluzman

music, it looks back to the past through 20th century eyes.

Jan. 21-22 at West Point Grey United Church. vettamusic.com MUSIC IN THE MORNING Brings you an amazing winter lineup starting with “Juilliard415” with guest conductor Nicholas McGegan, in partnership with Early Music Vancouver Nov. 18-20.

Edmar Castañeda, harp, Dafnis Prieto, percussion Dec. 16-18.

St. Lawrence String Quartet staring Geoff Nuttall, Owen Dalby, Lesley Robertson and Christopher Costanza Jan. 2729 at Vancouver Academy of Music. musicinthemorning.org A NIGHT IN VENICE “Eine Nacht in Venedig,” one of the most beautiful of the

Strauss operettas, is performed in three acts, and sung in German, under the direction of Nancy Hermison and conducted by Jonathon Girard.

Feb. 4-7 at Chan Centre for the Performing Arts. music.ubc.ca DƒNES VçRJON Dénes Várjon studied at the Ferenc Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest with composer György Kurtág. He is a regular guest at festivals including the Salzburger Festspiele, Lucerne Festival, Biennale di Venezia, Marlboro Music Festival, Klavier-Festival Ruhr and Edinburgh Festival. Feb. 12 at Vancouver Playhouse. chopinsociety.org GARTH KNOX Experience the sounds of an original and exotic instrument — the viola d’amore — in the hands of celebrated virtuosic Irish soloist Garth Knox, formerly of the Arditti Quartet.

Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. at Orpheum Annex. newmusic.org

CHORAL THE BARRA MACNEILS CHRISTMAS TOUR The treasure of the East Coast, this maritime folk group journey across the country on their annual holiday tour.

Nov. 21 at 8 p.m. at St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church. celticfestvancouver.com

The principal period orchestra of The Juilliard School With guest conductor Nicholas McGegan “At last there is fabulous, energetic, thrilling, old-style music happening in New York. 415 is so charged up that it sounds like they are playing something just written.”—Mark Morris, Choreographer Generously sponsored by

In partnership with Early Music Vancouver

All concerts at the Vancouver Academy of Music

TICKETS: 604.873.4612 INFO: musicinthemorning.org

CHEZ NOUS: CHRISTMAS WITH ELEKTRA The choir’s always-fresh, family-friendly take on the season, featuring jazz vocalist Dee Daniels, with Jodi Proznick on bass. Nov. 28 at Ryerson United Church. elektra.ca TALES OF A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS The Jerry Granelli Trio, accompanied by the Coastal Sound Children’s Choir, perform an evening of stories and music to capture the spirit of the Christmas season.

Nov. 29 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Vogue Theatre. coastaljazz.ca

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Elektra WomenÕs Choir

THE CHRISTMAS STAR The Vancouver Welshmen’s Choir performs a program of Christmas and holiday classics featuring the Magee Secondary School choir. Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. at Shaughnessy United Church. vwmc.ca

audiences an opportunity to enjoy contemporary choral performance in an inviting and traditional space.

Dec. 18 at St. Phillip’s Anglican Church and Dec. 19 at Christ Church Cathedral. musicaintima.org

A GOOD NOISE CHRISTMAS Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir presents the treasured annual tradition, Celebrate! The 90-member choir performs yuletide gospel favourites, coupled with popular seasonal works accompanied by acclaimed guitarist, David Sinclair. Dec. 11 & 12 at 8 p.m. at Christ Church Cathedral. goodnoisevgc.com

CHRISTMAS IN THE ORPHEUM Nothing says Christmas more than choirs, and this concert brings you the city’s finest, singing the glorious voiceand-brass music of Gabrieli and Pinkham, intimate Christmas moods of Derek Healey with harp, and a grand carol sing-along of traditional favourites, as the audience joins in with the choirs and brass ensemble.

Dec. 4 at Orpheum Theatre. vancouverchamberchoir.com

HANDELÕS MESSIAH Vancouver Bach Choir presents the divine harmonies, resounding orchestrations, and sublime arias of Messiah under the baton of Leslie Dala, with an ensemble of celebrated Canadian soloists and the VSO. Dec. 12 at 8 p.m. at Orpheum Theatre. vancouverbachchoir.com

A CHRISTMAS STORY Join Musica Intima for their popular Christmas concert and celebrate the sublime music that makes the holiday so special. Traditional holiday favourites with contemporary marvels, offering new and established

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS A lively concert performance of A Charlie Brown Christmas with actors, jazz duo and the Vancouver Chamber Choir. The concert starts with English, German and international songs of the season conducted by Carrie Tennant, including a special appearance of her accomplished Vancouver Youth Choir.

Dec. 19 at Shaughnessy Heights United Church vancouverchamberchoir.com

THE MAESTROÕS ART This year the Vancouver Chamber Choir’s remarkable National Conductors’ Symposium concert focuses on the music of the Masters — Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, Brahms and Wagner. Five talented conductors from around the world lead the outstanding professional choir along with master conductor and teacher Jon Washburn and pianist Stephen Smith.

Jan. 23 at Ryerson United Church. vancouverchamberchoir.com CHRISTMAS REPRISE XIII Treasuref yuletide season tradition with the Vancouver Cantata Singers and celebrate the holidays with a matinee performance evoking the true warmth, festive feeling, and simple, pure joy of the holiday season.

Dec. 19 at 2 p.m. at Holy Rosary Cathedral vancouvercantatasingers.com SONGS OF LOVE The Vancouver Cantata Singers perform a program from Johannes Brahms’ Liebeslieder Walzer, with music by John Greer and John Corigliano, with the Bergmann Piano Duo. Feb. 14 at 3 p.m. at Orpheum Annex. vancouvercantatasingers.com

LIVE AT

STADIUM CLUB SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20

HEROES OF ROCK

A TRIBUTE TO THE BIGGEST ROCK LEGENDS OF ALL TIME Doors Open 7:30pm, Show Starts 8:00pm Tickets $5, plus get a $5 Food Voucher at the Show Available at Guest Services.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28

BLUES FOR PAWS

CELEBRATE THE BLUES & SUPPORT THE BCSPCA

Doors Open 7:30pm, Show Starts 8:00pm Tickets $20, all proceeds benefit the BCSPCA Available at StadiumClub.TicketLeap.com 760 Pacific Blvd. South Vancouver, BC V6B 5E7

Across from BC Place P 604.687.3343

EDGEWATERCASINO.CA

Music in the Morning

MUST BE 19+. MANAGEMENT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE, AMEND OR CANCEL PROMOTION AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. CASH ONLY PAYMENT ACCEPTED. TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE AND MUST BE PRESENTED AT THE DOOR ON THE NIGHT OF THE SHOW TO RECEIVE ENTRY WRISTBAND.

THE VANCOUVER COURIER T H U R SDAY, N OV E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 5

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Featuring: “ALL I WANT…” Gift Market • Free Horse Carriage Rides Live Music • Ice Carving Demo • Visits with Santa Candy Making • Xmas Tree Lot Get all the details at: yaletowninfo.com

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TAIWANESE MARTIAL ARTS EPIC THE ASSASSIN

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THE ROOM

ACTOR GREG SESTERO JOINS US FOR A LIVE SCRIPT READING AND Q&A SCREENS WITH:DUDE BRO PARTY MASSACRE III

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LOVE IN ALDERAAN PLACES

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A VERY BURTON XMAS SHOW DECEMBER 4-5 AND 11-12

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T H U R SDAY, N OV E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

CONCERTS

BLUES FOR PAWS The eighth annual event features Joani Bye, Alita Dupray, Catherine St. Gemain, Nadine States and Leslie Harris, with all proceeds going to the SPCA. Nov. 28 at Edgewater Casino edgewatercasino.ca

Blitzen Trapper

CHRISTMAS AT

VANCE JOY “Riptide” indie-pop-singersongwriter from Australia performs with special guest Reuben and the Dark for the first of two nights on his Fire and the Flood North American Tour. Jan. 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. at Orpheum Theatre. livenation.com

BLUE RODEO The long-running Toronto roots rockers return to town for two nights in support of their latest release, Live At Massey Hall, with special guest Terra Lightfoot.

Jan. 26 and 27 at 8 p.m. at Orpheum Theatre. ticketmaster.ca

BLITZEN TRAPPER “This is Blitzen Trapper’s seventh record for the books, another bizarre string of tales and touchstones, more beats and banjos by far than anything to date, since, well we figured a straight line between two points is preferable,” says the band’s E. Earley. Nov 20 at Biltmore Cabaret ticketweb.ca

COMEDY

CHRISTMAS QUEEN 2 Vancouver Theatre Sports League presents the latest version of the continuing holiday saga, set at the North Pole and Santa’s Workshop.

This improvised fairy tale sees the larger-than-life, blue-haired Christmas Queen drop in on ol’ Santa and create a little chaos in the week leading up to the big day. Nov. 25-Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Improv Centre on Granville Island. vtsl.com

Sean Michaels

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JFL NORTHWEST COMEDY FEST Partnering this year with Just For Laughs, this 10-day winter highlight brings your standup favourites to town while championing the up-andcomers you didn’t even know you loved with improv, sketch and podcasts. Feb. 18-27.

Visit jflnorthwest.com for the lineup and tickets.

FINE ARTS 21ST CENTURY FLEA MARKET These popular Europeanstyle collector markets feature 185 tables of bargains on deluxe 20th century “junque.”

Nov. 15 and Jan. 17 at the Croatian Cultural Centre.

21cpromotions.com THE 17TH ANNUAL ANIMATION SHOW OF SHOWS The world’s top animated short film compilations, prized by industry professionals, students, and fans. Event producer, curator and animation expert Ron Diamond has scouted 37 Oscar nominees and 14 winners from around the globe and for the first year is bringing the collection to audiences in select cities. Nov 15, 19 at Rio Theatre. riotheatre.ca

ART AGAINST STIGMA Imagine 1,000 pieces of art by 60 artists living with a mental health disability. Many of the artists are well-known in Vancouver’s art scene and 100 per cent of the proceeds go directly to the artists. Nov. 19-22 at Kettle on Hastings. thekettle.ca EAST SIDE CULTURE CRAWL The four-day visual arts, design and crafts festival showcases the best in local art as sculptors, designers, woodworkers and artists open their studios across 78 buildings to share their work, just in time for holiday shopping.

Nov. 19-22. culturecrawl.ca THE NEW FACE OF FICTION: SEAN MICHAELS Winner of the 2014 Scotiabank Giller Prize. A beautiful, haunting novel inspired by the true life and loves of the famed Russian scientist, inventor and spy Lev Termen – creator of the theremin. Nov 21 at the Jewish Community Centre. jccgv.com NIGHTMARE BEFORE THE NUTCRACKER: A VERY BURTON XMAS SHOW This gothic reimagination is a unique twist on the beloved fable as told through the music of Tchaikovsky and Danny Elfman, and features characters from both “The Nutcracker” and your favourite Tim Burton films. Dec 4-12 at Rio Theatre. riotheatre.ca RETRO DESIGN AND ANTIQUES FAIR Favoured by designers, collectors and antiques dealers alike, this fun Sunday fair features 175 tables and booths of fabulous finds for you and your eclectic abode.

Dec. 6 and Feb. 21 at the Croatian Cultural Centre.

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November 19th - 22nd, 2015

Explore all three floors of the beautiful Edwardian mansion.

FUN for the whole family!

• Unique boutiques • Beautiful yuletide decor • Local Artisans

• Loads of live entertainment • Tasty traditional treats • Surprises & Santa visits too!

Daily 11am – 9pm • Sunday 11am – 6pm Admission: $15 • Children 12 and under FREE (accompanied by an adult)

1489 McRae Avenue, Vancouver • ChristmasAtHycroft.com

THE VANCOUVER COURIER T H U R SDAY, N OV E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 5

CIRCLE CRAFT Circle Craft presents its 42nd annual Christmas Craft Market where locals and visitors come face to face with B.C. and Canadian artisans and their work. Nov. 11-15 at Vancouver Convention Centre West. circlecraft.net LIGHTS OF HOPE COMMUNITY CELEBRATION Join St. Paul’s Hospital as they turn on the Lights of Hope display for the first time during the annual Community Celebration. Nov 19. lightsofhope.helpstpauls. com CHRISTMAS AT HYCROFT You’ll find everything decked in sure-to-inspire seasonal splendour, an excellent variety of unique boutiques, crafters, treats and local artisans. Outside, Hycroft’s courtyard is a buzz of activity too. Nov. 19-22. uwcvancouver.ca

CANDYTOWN Spend the day at the annual street celebration where Yaletown is magically transformed into a winter wonderland with familyfriendly activities, horsedrawn carriage rides and, of course, Santa Claus. Nov. 21 from 12-7 p.m. at Mainland Street. Admission is free. yaletowninfo.com VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET The annual market lights up downtown bringing together one-of-a-kind food, gifts, and fun for a family-friendly Christmas experience. Nov. 21-Dec. 24 from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. at Queen Elizabeth Plaza. vancouverchristmasmarket.com PAN PACIFIC CHRISTMAS WISH BREAKFAST Receive a complimentary hot buffet breakfast in return for a new unwrapped toy given to needy children during the holiday season.

All donations given to the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau. Nov. 26 from 6-9 a.m. panpacificvancouver.com

THE PEAK OF CHRISTMAS Bring your family to Santa’s Workshop and meet reindeer, or take a sleigh-ride through our mystical alpine forest.

You can also experience the tranquil beauty of skating on Grouse Mountain’s 8,000 square foot mountaintop ice skating pond, surrounded by snow-topped trees.

Nov. 27-Jan 4 at Grouse Mountain. grousemountain.com

MAKE IT! THE HANDMADE REVOLUTION Shop for one-of-a-kind handmade items from over 250 of Canada’s hottest urban artisans, designers, and crafters. There will be something for everyone from fashion and accessories, to art and jewellery, to baby items, and home décor.

Dec. 3-6 at the PNE Forum (2901 East Hastings St.). $7 at the door. makeitshow.ca

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS The annual VanDusen Botanical Garden holiday lights festival. Dec. 1-31, from 4:30-9 p.m. every night (except Dec. 25). vandusengarden.org

TOQUE A curated craft fair, produced and presented by the Western Front showcases local artists, designers and artisans offering everything from ceramics and jewellery to edibles and one-of-a-kind objects at this annual event, widely considered “a true artists” fair with a solidly local feel. Dec. 4-6 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Western Front. Admission by donation. front.bc.ca

FESTIVE FUN AT VANCOUVER MARITIME MUSEUM Get festive at the Vancouver Maritime Museum this December with warm drinks, family winter crafts, a special 25 per cent discount in the gift shop for all those Christmas presents and more.

Dec. 3 at Maritime Museum. vancouvermaritimemuseum.com

CAROL SHIPS PARADE OF LIGHTS On peak evenings, this holiday tradition has grown to more than 50 decorated boats, with in excess of 100,000 lights, and carries over 30,000 people during the month of December festival.

Dec 4-19. carolships.org

GET SNOW GLOBED! Take your picture inside the giant snow globe with a suggested minimum donation of $5. Visit Harbour Centre from Dec. 4-24 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. All proceeds donated to the Kettle Society to help British Columbians living with mental illness. harbourcentre.com BRIGHT NIGHTS CHRISTMAS TRAIN IN STANLEY PARK Santa’s elves have been working diligently for the past several months in order to transform Stanley Park into a captivating and dazzling lighting display complete with music, sweet snacks, entertainment and, of course, Santa Claus.

Dec. 5-Jan. 5 at Stanley Park. ticketstonight.ca ROGERS SANTA CLAUS PARADE The day starts at 10:30 a.m. with entertainment at the Vancouver Art Gallery, and the parade kicks off at 1 p.m. with thousands of participants including more than 60 marching bands, choirs, and floats. Dec 6. rogerssantaclausparade.com

MENORAH LIGHTING Celebrate the first night of Chanukah, with the lighting of the tallest Menorah in Canada, the Silber Family Agam Menorah, with live entertainment. Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. at Vancouver Art Gallery. vanartgallery.bc.ca LUMIERE Shine bright this winter in the West End. Visit the West End on Dec. 11 and 12 for light installations, live entertainment, light parade, free ice skating, a festive trolley tour and more. westendbia.com/lumiere CHRISTMAS AT CANADA PLACE Come down to Canada Place from Dec. 12-30 from noon to 6 p.m. daily to enjoy the classic holiday scenes of the Woodward’s Windows, capture your Christmas memories in a 15-foot snow globe, visit Rudolph’s Theatre and the Avenue of Christmas Trees, and take part in a variety of arts and crafts activities for the whole family. canadaplace.ca

CHANUKAH PARTY A family-friendly event featuring the Chanukah Food Fest, a treasure hunt and magic gathering, bouncy castles, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and a candle lighting complete with singa-long. Dec. 6 from 2-4:30 p.m. at the Jewish Community Centre. jccgv.com

The 10th biennial

Dance In Vancouver battery opera productions MACHiNENOiSY Marta Marta Productions MascallDance Shay Kuebler Radical System Art Starrwind Dance Projects Raven Spirit Dance The Biting School Vanessa Goodman Action at a Distance Photo: Shay Kuebler Radical System Art/dancer Lexi Vajda/photo David Cooper

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Ziyian Kwan dumb instrument Dance

Wednesday–Sunday November 18–22, 2015 Scotiabank Dance Centre

677 Davie Street (at Granville), Vancouver + battery opera performance at the Holiday Inn Vancouver Downtown Hotel & Suites, 1110 Howe St

Tickets 604.684.2787 | ticketstonight.ca Info 604.606.6400 | thedancecentre.ca