Friday December 8 @ 7:30
SAX AMONG FRIENDS
JINGLIN' JAZZ
Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
SAX AMONG FRIENDS
JINGLIN' JAZZ
Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
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Experience the magic of Christmas with our unforgettable Jinglin’ Jazz Evening. If you love familiar Noels or are curious about a few of the lesser-known holiday tunes, our Evening will be a treat. Imagine the Christmas tunes infused with rhythms of jazz to kick off the festive season. Join us for an evening of melody, humour and the warmth of holiday spirit. This Christmas, let the familiar tunes of the season take on a new and exciting twist at our Jinglin’ Jazz Evening.
TICKETS: $20 Part of the Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
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December 15 & 16 @ 6:00
A WORLD FULL OF HOLIDAY JOY
Rise Dance Academy
A WORLD FULL OF HOLIDAY JOY
Rise Dance Academy
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This holiday season, Rise Dance Academy is exploring the world and the music that goes with. We will be dancing to a selection of music from holidays all over the globe. Over 125 dancers, ages 3 to adult, have been training and preparing since September to bring our audience a holiday show like no other.
TICKETS: $25 for adults (19-55) , $15 for seniors (55+), $10 for kids (3-18yrs) and kids under 2 free |
Sunday December 17 @ 7:30
SONGS OF THE SOUTHERN BELLES
COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
SONGS OF THE SOUTHERN BELLES
COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
TICKETS: $45, Students: $30
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Join Songs of the Southern Belles for a Country Christmas on Sunday December 17th. Santa has renamed his reindeer to Dolly, Loretta, Patsy, Kitty, Alison, Carrie, Tammy, Connie and Brenda!! Kinga Heming and Shamma Sabir sing the songs of the great women of Country along with this fantastic band under the direction of Sean Bray. Don't miss this amazing show! Visit www.songsofthesouthernbelles.com for more information.
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Saturday January 13 @ 7:30
RICK MILLER'S
BOOM
Presented by Venables Theatre
RICK MILLER'S
BOOM
Presented by Venables Theatre
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Written, directed and performed by Rick Miller, BOOM is an explosive solo performance that documents the music, politics, and culture that shaped the Baby Boom generation. BOOM takes us through 25 turbulent years, and gives voice to over a 100 influential politicians, activists and musicians. It's a mind-blowing experience for audiences of all generations and, with over 400 performances already, a hit in Canada, the U.S., France, and Taiwan!
BOOM chronologically documents the period from the first atomic bomb in 1945 all the way to the Apollo 11 landing on the moon in 1969. These two iconic moments span one of the most tumultuous times in modern history, as a generation with incredible influence came of age alongside advances in technology and communication. Rick Miller performs all the characters and 25 moment-defining songs, in a stunningly staged production that blends cutting-edge multimedia, and tour-de-force storytelling. Experience the global events as they unfold: the Cold War, McCarthyism, Beatlemania, JFK, MLK, Vietnam... The various stories spiral into the “The Summer of Love’’, and BOOM ends as it began: with the birth of a new generation. TICKETS: Adults $45, Seniors $40, 18 & Under $25
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Sunday January 14 @ 7:30
BILL USHER & THE SPACE HEATERS
The Good Getting Older Tour
Presented by Venables Theatre
BILL USHER & THE SPACE HEATERS
The Good Getting Older Tour
Presented by Venables Theatre
TICKETS: $25
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With his rare gift of communicating “good-getting-older” life experiences into memorable songs and humorous stories, Bill Usher creates an evening in the theatre that brings the generations together in a head-nodding appreciation of those universal truths that happen in families as some grow up while others grow old.
Multiple Juno award-winner Bill Usher could be one of the most accomplished but, not-so-famous people in the world of Canadian music and arts! Starting in the 1970s, this self-taught drummer has played and recorded with several festival’s worth of well-known artists, from Bruce Cockburn and Ronnie Hawkins to Valdy, Willie P. Bennett and Stan Rogers. He’s produced 60 albums, most notably the first four ground-breaking albums for Sharon, Lois & Bram, but also for Stringband, the Nexus Percussion Ensemble, Big Bird & Oscar the Grouch and many others – and received numerous Gold and Platinum records for his efforts. (And yes, that was Bill who made those Five Little Monkeys jump on the bed!) During the ’90s, Bill emerged as a songwriter, releasing two albums with his band The Space Heaters. Two notable gigs involved playing Peter Gabriel’s WOMAD festival in Toronto and Festival Rhyme du Monde in Montreal. By the early 2000s while working as the Ontario Arts Councils’ Performing Arts Touring Officer he created a whole album’s worth of songs with the release of Slowdancing in the Ballroom of Life, a deep dive into the challenges and rewards of surviving into middle age – a thoughtful and groove-filled look at, mostly, the good things about getting older. From gospel-tinged hints of redemption to the sort of love songs that can only be written after you’ve been in love for a very long time, Slowdancing had a lot to say and said it very well indeed. “These songs have already sung their way into my life,” wrote Dugg Simpson, longtime artistic director of the Vancouver Folk Music Festival. “They’re about things that I have lived and about things that I am living, in a musical language that I can understand.” Bill Usher and thespaceheaters Pursuing a long held dream to leave the city behind, Bill and his wife moved west in 2002 and settled in Golden, BC. “Pete Seeger’s elder advice to me backstage at the Mariposa Folk Festival in 1975, was my ‘north star’ growing older,” says Usher. “Pete told me, ‘You don’t find community. You make community.’ So simple, yet so powerful.” The last word goes to Bill, “Hey don’t forget to tell folks about the groove,” Usher laughs. “I’ve been drumming for over 50 years now, so you know there’s going to be a groove!” |
Tuesday January 16 @ 9:00am & 11:00am
WAVES, all that Glows Sees
A show for toddlers, from 18 months to 4 years old
Family Showtime Series
WAVES, all that Glows Sees
A show for toddlers, from 18 months to 4 years old
Family Showtime Series
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To begin with, you follow a little pathway of shells and stones that goes around a big tent made of sheets. You can hear someone playing a harmonica. It seems that people may be already inside the tent. They want you to come and see, so you go in. You walk through the opening. When you’re inside the tent it’s very pleasant. It’s warm, but there’s a tiny breeze. A little melody makes your heart beat more calmly. The light is gentle, like that of the setting sun.
Inside, a tall man is dreaming of the sea. He makes sand appear, then turtles, seagulls and fish, and then dune grass, the sky, boats and time that passes. The man doesn’t know how to wait, so he plays at hiding in the depth of the water. He becomes a treasure that waits. And waits. And waits for you. Beside him, another tall man makes music and lets his voice float out over the ocean. To wait is to hope, and this happens often. It happens all the time. To little kids and to grown-ups too. A charming “postcard,” offering images, music, words and silence, like a poem for someone you love... or a holiday on an invented beach. Part of the Family Showtime Series Friday October 20 - Zaniac Comedy Show Tuesday January 16 - Waves, all that Glows Sees Friday February 16 - iLumiDance Saturday April 6 - RupLoops TICKETS: $10 |
Saturday January 20 @ 7:30
Venables Theatre presents
HELLO DOLLY
January's A Drag!
Venables Theatre presents
HELLO DOLLY
January's A Drag!
TICKETS: $25
19+ event, government issued photo ID required |
Get ready to experience the glitz, glamour, and heartfelt tribute to the iconic Dolly Parton! "Hello Dolly" is a dazzling drag tribute show that celebrates the legendary music and persona of Dolly Parton. A night that promises an unforgettable journey through the best of Dolly's music, presented with a unique blend of humor, flamboyance, and authentic admiration for the queen of country music herself.
Featuring Legendary Performers: Jaylene Tyme: A legendary tribute artist from Vancouver known for her stunning portrayal of Dolly Parton, bringing an unmatched level of authenticity and charm to the stage. From Calgary: Karla Marx: the First Comrade of Your Heart: Hailed as Calgary's Most Naked Drag Queen, Karla brings a mix of glamour and edgy performance art that's sure to captivate. King Smokey Waters: Calgary's premier Drag King for hire, and the drag alter-ego of Bitch Sassidy. Known for his charismatic performances and commanding stage presence. From the Okanagan: Ella Lamoureux: The Two-Spirit sweetheart of the Okanagan, Ella is known for her captivating performances that blend storytelling, dance, and a deep connection with the audience. Experience the Music & Magic This show isn't just a tribute; it's an immersive experience that combines the timeless music of Dolly Parton with the unique artistry of each performer. From classic hits to lesser-known gems, you'll hear Dolly's music like never before. Expect stunning costumes, dazzling choreography, and emotional renditions that honor the spirit of Dolly Parton. A Night to Remember "Hello Dolly" is more than just a show; it's a celebration of diversity, art, and the enduring legacy of Dolly Parton. Whether you're a lifelong Dolly fan or new to the magic of drag performance, this show promises to be a night of joy, laughter, and unforgettable entertainment. Join us for "Hello Dolly" and let's celebrate the music, the legacy, and the magic of Dolly Parton together! |
Thursday January 25 @ 7:30
JIM BYRNES with SIMON KENDALL
Sponsored by Castanet
JIM BYRNES with SIMON KENDALL
Sponsored by Castanet
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Jim Byrnes lives and breathes music. For nearly fifty years he’s crooned, drawled, belted, hollered and sweet talked more songs into a microphone than most people ever get to hear in a single lifetime. His evocative, smoky vocals are found in a truth that doesn’t come overnight. The sheer joy you can hear in the music he creates is a reason to celebrate Jim Byrnes as a living musical treasure.
By age thirteen, Jim was singing and playing blues guitar. His first professional gig was in 1964. Over the years, he has had the great good fortune to appear with a virtual who’s who of the blues. From Muddy Waters and John Lee Hooker to Taj Mahal and Robert Cray, Jim has been on the blues highway his whole career. St. Louis bred, Byrnes moved to Vancouver, BC in the mid-70s after years of drifting, working odd jobs and playing music. He’s been a mainstay on both the music and screen scenes ever since. Jim was recently awarded the Order of Canada, acknowledging the impact he has had on the Canadian arts scene as well as for his philanthropic work. His fame as an actor equals his legendary music status. From his numerous TV and movie roles, highlights include the Wiseguy and Highlander series, and his national variety show, The Jim Byrnes Show. With many award winning albums to his credit (Maple Blues Awards, WCMAs, Junos, Canadian Folk Music Awards), Jim Byrnes is that artist who will light up the stage with songs and stories, tried and true. Jim will be joined for this show by Simon Kendall (Doug & The Slugs) on keys and Eric Reed on guitars and mandolin. TICKETS: $39 |
Friday January 26 @ 7:30
SARAH HAGEN - Wonder Women
Presented by Venables Theatre
South Okanagan Concert Series
SARAH HAGEN - Wonder Women
Presented by Venables Theatre
South Okanagan Concert Series
Part of the 2023/2024 South Okanagan Concert Series
Friday October 13, 2023 - Oktopus Friday November 10th 2023 - Tunde Jegede & Friends Friday January 26th 2024 - Sarah Hagen Friday March 22nd 2024 - The McDades TICKETS 4 Events - $25 each 2-3 Events - $27.50 each Single Event - $29 each Students - $2.50 each |
In “Wonder Women!”, pianist Sarah Hagen delves into the remarkable stories and piano music of forgotten female composers from the classical repertoire. This recital will highlight piano works by 18th and 19th century composers, including Clara Schumann, Cécile Chaminade, Delphine von Schauroth, and others. Included will be stunningly gorgeous music by Marianna Martines, who lived in the same circles as Haydn and Mozart, and often joined Mozart in piano duets at the musical soirées she and her sister held in their Viennese home.
A note from the performer: I began performing this programme after purchasing a disappointingly thin volume of music by female composers about 20 years ago. After reading through the music, I remember shutting the book and thinking to myself, There must be more music than this, and certainly more music of a better quality!. I simply didn’t feel the collection fairly represented the music that had been created by women during the 18th and 19th centuries. So I set off on a musical treasure hunt, searching online, through old collections of music, and in libraries. I have found that good music is getting easier to find as scholars take more of an interest in researching these remarkable women. So, I am constantly refreshing the programme! I am also continually fascinated by the stories of the strong women behind the music. These are the women who fought for equal pay as their male colleagues, who insisted that they could also have a life and a career outside of the kitchen, who chose to shockingly forgo marriage to be able to fully focus on their art. These are the trailblazers who are an invaluable part of our journey to gender equality. I have especially found that high school students are particularly interested in hearing these stores. Somehow hearing the music makes the stories of female strength and resilience come to life for the students in an inspiring way. |
Sunday February 11 @ 7:00
THE HIGH BAR GANG
Sponsored by Castanet
THE HIGH BAR GANG
Sponsored by Castanet
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Since the band was formed in the summer of 2010, the High Bar Gang has been bringing its unique take on old time bluegrass to the people of Western Canada.
Vocal harmony is key to the band’s sound, and the blend of Shari Ulrich, Wendy Bird and Kirby Barber along with guitarist Barney Bentall and banjo player Dave Barber is simply stunning. Supported by Rob Becker on bass, and Colin Nairne on guitar and mandolin, the band’s repertoire stays mostly rooted in the golden age of bluegrass music with songs by the likes of Bill Monroe, The Stanley Brothers and Del McCoury. Highlights for the High Bar Gang include opening for Canadian music icons Blue Rodeo at Vancouver’s Malkin Bowl, and the many sold out shows they have played throughout Western Canada, including the prestigious Cedar Creek Winery Concert series and the Raven’s Cry Theatre in Sechelt. From the Brackendale Art Gallery and Victoria’s famous Butchart Gardens to Vancouver’s International Jazz Festival and San Francisco’s legendary Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, the band has built a solid reputation for their wonderfully upbeat brand of old time bluegrass and stories. In 2013 the band signed a record deal with True North Records resulting in the release of their debut recording “Lost and Undone: A Gospel Bluegrass Companion”. Along with extensive airplay in Europe as well as in North America, the album garnered several award nominations in 2014 including a Juno Award nomination in the ‘Contemporary Christian/Gospel’ category as well as a Western Canadian Music Award nod in the ‘Spiritual’ category. The High Bar Gang went on to be nominated for three Canadian Folk Music Awards in 2014 and won that year for Best Vocal Group. TICKETS: $44 |
February 2 & 3 @ 7:30, February 4 @ 2:00, February 9 & 10 @ 7:30
SOAP Theatre presents
THE DECEPTION OF KATHRYN VASK
by Mark Steensland
SOAP Theatre presents
THE DECEPTION OF KATHRYN VASK
by Mark Steensland
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Blaming herself for her son’s death, Kathryn Vask agrees to hold a séance in her home. Encouraged by her husband, Jonathan and the local priest, Kathryn asks for her dead son’s forgiveness to help her cope with the tragedy. The story has some unexpected twists and a final turn of events which makes the audience sit on the edge of their seats. This drama speaks to motherhood, spirituality, and family bonds.
PLEASE NOTE: This show is not for children. The show includes contacting spirits and the dead, alcohol consumption, and the tragic death of a child. There will be flashing lights. TICKETS: $25 |
Wednesday February 14 @ 7:00
THE KRISTI NEUMANN BAND | BIANCA BERKLAND
A Double Header of Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
Two events for one ticket price!
THE KRISTI NEUMANN BAND | BIANCA BERKLAND
A Double Header of Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
Two events for one ticket price!
Part of the Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
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Kristi Neumann is a gifted singer/songwriter who grew up in Montana and also spent much of her musical career in Nashville, Tennessee. Kristi successfully carved out a place for herself in a town that does not forgive mediocrity. Armed with a growing catalog of self-penned tunes, her prowess as a writer, band leader and performer definitely turned heads. Kristi's music is original and provocative. Her songs weave through themes that embrace both a wandering past and an optimistic hope for things to come. With perfect sensibility, her introspective lyrics leave just enough room for well-crafted, pop-friendly hooks. Neumann now resides in Oliver, Bristish Columbia. She has played a variety of venues as a solo artist and has recently joined forces with top notch local musicians Luke Whittall, Greg Reely and Paul Henbury to form The Kristi Neumann Band.
Bianca Berkland is an exceptionally gifted, modern Jazz and Soul singer and pianist, based out of Oliver, BC. With a nostalgic sound compared to the likes of Aretha Franklin, Amy Winehouse and Norah Jones. Her single ‘Black Bird’ was a semi-finalist in the international song-writing competition. She was top 3 in the Gonzo Okanagan Awards for best Jazz Musician and Best Music Video. With imaginative and honest lyrics and unique take on traditional Jazz vocals The music of Bianca Berkland is one of those rare finds we’re all seeking. TICKETS: $20 |
Friday February 16 @ 6:30
iLumiDance
Family Showtime Series
iLumiDance
Family Showtime Series
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Dancing light! In this interactive performance, audience members get to see three dances featuring electronic costumes, props and puppets. The light wire technology not only enchants students with professional dance, it gets them excited about the “technology” component of STEM learning.
The dance artists reveal how they use the STEM engineering design process to create innovative new technologies in dance art, such as wearable electronic costumes and electronic puppets. Audience members participate in demonstrations of how engineering design and coding are used to create dances, and selected students are invited up to create their own “ilumidance” with a five-foot-tall light wire puppet. Part of the Family Showtime Series Friday October 20 - Zaniac Comedy Show Tuesday January 16 - Waves, all that Glows Sees Friday February 16 - iLumiDance Saturday April 6 - RupLoops TICKETS: $10 |
Sunday March 10 @ 7:30
Venables Theatre presents
JULIE KIM LIVE
With opening guest Kate Belton
Venables Theatre presents
JULIE KIM LIVE
With opening guest Kate Belton
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Julie Kim is a stand-up comedian and writer. She has been featured on national television and radio multiple times, and her comedy credits are among the best in Canada. She headlines across Canada, the United States, and beyond. Julie toured across North America with Ronny Chieng (The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, Crazy Rich Asians) in 2021/2022 for his Hope You Get Rich Tour.
Julie Kim is one of Canada’s top stand-up comedians. Julie recently toured across North America doing 40 theatre shows with Ronny Chieng (Crazy Rich Asians, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah). Over the past decade, Julie has performed at all the major Canadian comedy festivals including Just for Laughs Montreal, Just for Laughs Vancouver, Winnipeg Comedy Festival, and Halifax Comedy Festival (with multiple televised performances). She tours internationally and will be making her debut at the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. She has also been regularly featured on CBC’s The Debaters. Julie’s online videos have amassed nearly 50 million views. Julie is also a writer and producer. Julie received three nominations for writing and producing by the Canadian Academy in 2023. Julie has contributed to the writing rooms of Kim’s Convenience, Run the Burbs, and Still Standing. Julie has been part of the writing and creative consulting team at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival for the past three years. She was also a writer for Just for Laughs Montreal in 2022. Julie was a producer and writer for Simu Liu (Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings) as he hosted the 2022 Juno Awards. She ideated Liu’s now well-known ‘I am Canadian’ monologue, which has gone viral on the Internet and social media. Julie will return in this capacity as Simu hosts the 2023 Juno Awards. Also in 2023, Julie was included on VIBE’s list of POWER 60: Inspiring Asian-Canadians of Influence. Other notable honorees included Lilly Singh, Andrew Phung, and Russell Peters. Julie's mission is to spread happiness, lighten hearts, and unite through laughter. TICKETS: $30 |
Wednesday March 13 @ 7:30
FRESHWATER JUKEBOX
Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
FRESHWATER JUKEBOX
Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
TICKETS: $20
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As friends and co-conspirators in the arts, all with roots in the Okanagan, members of Freshwater Jukebox have played and created together over the span of the last 16 or so years. This has taken form in many constellations of various bands, gallery installations, workshop spaces, musical duos and trios and … you get the picture.
In 2022 the stars finally aligned and many of this particular orbit found themselves more permanently back in Okanagan Territory, elated to be able to make music as a group again! And so, Freshwater Jukebox, as its own entity; a cohesive, jubilant, and now named and dedicated band, has been born. Part of the Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
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Tuesday March 19 @ 7:30
Venables Theatre presents
MOMENTUM OF ISOLATION
Shay Kubler | Radical System Art
Venables Theatre presents
MOMENTUM OF ISOLATION
Shay Kubler | Radical System Art
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MOI- MOMENTUM OF ISOLATION bases its performances around social isolation and loneliness. The performance explores the objective and subjective experiences through the individual, the group and modern society- a society with shifting values and an ever-advancing digital way of life.
To shape a digital world on stage, MOI places live interactive video and sound around the performers. These elements enhance ideas on how technology influences our lives, and that it can both empower and disempower us. Further distilling isolation, solo performances and the extended social isolation of one character on stage are critical to the arc of the performance. Within MOI, one character’s interactions are only with inanimate objects. Through puppeteering and stage craft, the inanimate world comes to life, which highlights how social isolation can disrupt our connection to reality. Our social bonds allow us to understand that we have an impact on what is around us- that we exist. Research began on MOI in 2018 after Artistic Director Shay Kubler read about the “Minister of Loneliness” in the U.K. In studies, social isolation was found to be more detrimental to health over alcohol and cigarettes. In 2018, MOI felt like a critical work to explore. Now, in 2023, it has become even more relevant and accessible. TICKETS: Adults $35, 18 & Under $20 |
Friday March 22 @ 7:30
THE MCDADES
Presented by Venables Theatre
South Okanagan Concert Series
THE MCDADES
Presented by Venables Theatre
South Okanagan Concert Series
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Punching through the walls of tradition, The McDades’ Celtic-rooted music fuses the spontaneity of jazz improvisation and infectious global rhythms. The Juno Award winners’ cutting edge sound is the perfect complement to their fiery performances.
At the heart of the group are siblings Shannon, Solon & Jeremiah who grew up playing Canadian folk music alongside their parents and among artists from around the world; a unique upbringing that led to a love and respect for all music. Their ground-breaking compositions and innovative arrangements are characterized by stunning virtuosity and a near-telepathic interaction on stage. With vocal harmonies that can only come from a family, and an obvious love for each other and their music, The McDades’ sound is immersed in the spirit of improvisation. Combining original tunes and unique interpretations of traditional songs, their performances feature both energetic instrumentals and moving vocals performed in English and French. This compelling and dynamic group “finds their groove somewhere between a down-home kitchen party, a jazzy after hours club, and a folk festival.” (London Free Press) The McDades are winners of the Juno Award for Best Roots Album (group) and two Canadian folk music awards (World Group of the year and Instrumental album of the year). Their new album “The Empress” continues to highlight the group’s one-of-a-kind sound and irresistible groove. “This Kicks!” (fRoots) Part of the 2023/2024 South Okanagan Concert Series Friday October 13, 2023 - Oktopus Friday November 10th 2023 - Tunde Jegede & Friends Friday January 26th 2024 - Sarah Hagen Friday March 22nd 2024 - The McDades TICKETS 4 Events - $25 each 2-3 Events - $27.50 each Single Event - $29 each Students - $2.50 each |
Wednesday March 27 @ 7:30
ZELENE ROJO
Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
ZELENE ROJO
Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
TICKETS: $20
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Zelene Rojo is a new Ukrainian-Argentinian musical duo, Kateryna Melnyk and Bruno Bosio. With original compositions and some revisions of existing works, their repertoire consists of a mixture of different styles, indie, pop, soul, and, at the same time, ethnic and traditional motifs from the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Latin America.
The main instruments played by the musicians are bass guitar, ukulele, Arabic oud, and Turkish frame drum, bendir. With lyrics in English, Spanish, Italian, Arabic, and Ukrainian, the concert is a true cocktail of musical combinations that will take us from East to West in a 70-minute show. The show will contain original songs followed by different modern and traditional rhythms from South America, such as chacarera, and cumbia, authored by the artists performed with ukulele, voice, unusual melodic bass lines that are pushed from back to the front of the sound, and ethnic-experimental repertoire with smooth Balkan and Funk touches that intertwine the cultural fusion of rhythms and genres. Half of the show will be played on the Arabic oud, a legendary and ancient stringed instrument with magnetic and deep sound. Together with the audience, we will explore its sound within traditional Arabic music, and continue with the performance of Ukrainian traditional songs, after which we will discover its potential in creating a modern sound that could erase barriers between styles and genres. Zelene Rojo characterizes this: “A musical journey exploring the different passageways of the soul, invoking the mystique and sound depth that emanates and emerges between the woods and strings of instruments, the voice, an ancient drum beat, and the modern sound that it has been transformed to”. Part of the Venables Alive! Local Artist Series
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Thursday April 4 @ 7:30
Venables Theatre presents
BLACK & RURAL
Written, performed, and created by Shayna Jones
Venables Theatre presents
BLACK & RURAL
Written, performed, and created by Shayna Jones
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Black & Rural is the story of a lone Black country woman struggling to defy the monolith of what matters to Black lives. Derived from dozens of real-life interviews with Black folk tucked away on the countryside across Canada, Shayna Jones weaves together a story of vulnerability, quiet triumph, and striking humanity. The show features Shayna's unique storytelling voice, interspersed with new folkloric tales and verbatim reflections from her interviewees.
“Spell-binding. Black & Rural awakens a deep-seated longing in many of us who live busy, noisy, urban lives and wonder why we live the way we do. One life. No rewind.” -Jo Ledingham "Pi Theatre has brought to the stage an exceptionally important piece of art ...Black & Rural puts forward timeless tales and fresh perspectives." - Stir Vancouver ADVISORY INFORMATION: Black + Rural is drawn from the true stories of Black Canadians, and explores their lived experiences with frankness and grace. This show features strong language. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to info@pitheatre.com About the Artist "I live in the rural mountains of British Columbia and have the privilege of being a full time mother to three incredible children. Motherhood is my deepest work. Though I often fail, I endeavour to live deeply, truthfully, simply, and beautifully. My work as a performance artist, and specifically as a Storyteller of African and African Diasporic Folklore, is woven into this endeavour. It is an extremely life giving, creative practice. Discovering, shaping and sharing tales keeps me steeped in the awareness of our common humanity; of our deeply threatened need for slowed-down, unplugged, heart to heart connection with one another and with the world around us; and of our inherent orientation toward something deep and divine. In short, as I experience it, Storytelling is a deeply spiritual act. It is not only a way of communing with others, it is a way of reaching out to God my Creator, to my ancestors, and to the Mothers that went before me. It is my way of coming Home. If I am so blessed, I will share tales until I am buried in the ground. And perhaps even thereafter. What a glorious thing that will be." - Shayna Jones, we are STORYFOLK TICKETS: Adults $30, 18 & under $20 |
Friday April 5 @ 7:30
DEREK SEGUIN: Nap. Laugh. Repeat
Presented by HubCap Promotions
DEREK SEGUIN: Nap. Laugh. Repeat
Presented by HubCap Promotions
TICKETS: $45
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Comedy super star Derek Seguin is touring Canada with his hysterical new show to celebrate his 20th year as a professional joke teller. Derek’s Juno nominated stand-up is always a pure reflection of his dysfunctional life, but naturally seen through his “slightly” twisted looking glass. This show will feature more of his hilarious stories on the challenges of relationships with his girlfriend, his three nearly grown-up children and every-day life in a mixed-up world that he finds peculiar at best. With barely a moment to catch your breath between laughs there is never a dull moment in Derek’s shows and for 20 years audiences have loved him for it, but he loves you more!
One of CBC’s The Debaters’ fan-favorites; people are often surprised at the raw nature of Derek’s stand-up… and how short he is. If you haven’t seen him live before; come out and discover the many hilarious surprises that his in-person shows are renowned for. No subject is off limits and no rabbit hole too deep. *Please be advised this performance contains frequent use of strong language and is intended for mature audiences. |
Saturday April 6 @ 11:00am
RupLoops - Magnetic North
Family Showtime Series
RupLoops - Magnetic North
Family Showtime Series
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Magnetic North is an interactive, live looping, high-energy performance that will bring you to your feet. Using sound samples of endangered environments and animals in BC, RupLoops will take you on a journey through sonic ecosystems. RupLoops brings the sounds of BC’s environment to life through music in a performance that also explores deeper themes about climate change, endangered animals, justice and environmentalism. With music, visual art, lyrics and interactive games, RupLoops’ latest show encourages us to take action in the world to create a better future. Kids will be inspired in more ways than one.
Rup Sidhu aka RupLoops (roop-loops) is a performer, producer and composer of many genres, drawing from folk and classical forms from around the globe. Rup is also a community arts facilitator, teaching percussion and hip-hop for the past 17 years at the Sarah McLachlan School of Music (a free music school for inner city youth) and has founded his own initiative, Metaphor, which brings hip-hop performances and empowerment workshops into youth detention centers, schools and rural communities. Part of the Family Showtime Series Friday October 20 - Zaniac Comedy Show Tuesday January 16 - Waves, all that Glows Sees Friday February 16 - iLumiDance Saturday April 6 - RupLoops TICKETS: $10 |
Thursday April 11 @ 7:30
RON JAMES - NOT NEARLY DONE YET!
Presented by Shantero Productions
RON JAMES - NOT NEARLY DONE YET!
Presented by Shantero Productions
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With twenty-five years spent barrelling down endless strips of asphalt from coast to coast, RON JAMES, our nation's number one road warrior and newly minted senior citizen, is Not Nearly Done Yet! With his trademark poetically charged alliterative rants, performed with razor sharp timing, this award-winning comedian and best-selling author takes audiences on a marathon roller coaster ride in the language of laughs, charting a course through a politically polarized world out of whack. From the micro to macro, he tackles everything from the dating woes of Baby Boomers, embattled public health care, aging parents, food fads, exercise addiction, nostalgia, information overload, tropical vacations gone awry, New Age divas, homelessness crisis, climate change, corporate monopolies and gambling ads in hockey, to the rise of AI's robot revolution. The comedian the Globe and Mail called, ‘a man of a million words and a million laughs', contemplates what really matters most in a culture beset by runaway consumption… and it is us. The preservation of humanity's humanity. ‘Everything else is just a spoiler on a Dodge Neon'.
"Utterly Brilliant" - Ottawa Sun; "a unique brand of funny all his own" - Winnipeg Free Press; "fits of helpless laughter" - Halifax Chronicle Herald; "hysterically funny ... at the top of his game" - Toronto Star; "gut-busting, knee-slapping funny" - Ottawa Citizen, "funniest man in Canada" - Victoria Times-Colonist; "a wheezing, snorting, chortling, gasping night of hilarity" - Edmonton Sun; "fast, funny and smart" - Montreal Gazette; "simply the best" - Toronto Sun; "thunderous standing ovation" - Saskatoon Star Phoenix. TICKETS: $70 |
Sunday April 28 @ 7:30
OM Oliver Music & Entertainment presents
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS
OM Oliver Music & Entertainment presents
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS
TICKETS: $65
Groups of 4 or more: $60each - use promo code BELLAMY to receive discount. |
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS: THE LOVE STILL FLOWS
Howard and David continue to prove that the trail they’ve ridden to fame has been as unique as their music itself. The road that started on the pop music charts in the ‘70’s, took a winding turn into country music in the ‘80’s, paving the way for duos to come, such as Brooks & Dunn, Montgomery Gentry, Big & Rich, and The Judds. Now known by their music and the company they were keeping, The Bellamys officially lifted off the launch pad in 1976 when their single, “Let Your Love Flow,” became an instant smash in both the U.S. and Europe. It stayed on the international charts long enough to build a huge international fan base for the hip young brothers that endures to this day. The love was indeed flowing as The Bellamys jammed for audiences on their sold-out concerts and shared stages with the likes of Loggins & Messina, the Doobie Brothers, and the Beach Boys., with their patented blend of rock/country music. True to their musical roots, their style and their songwriting was moving steadily more towards their raising. By the late ‘70’s The Bellamys were emerging on the country charts with another bona fide smash. “If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body (Would You Hold It Against Me),” originally scrawled on a dinner napkin by David, rocketed them to the top of the country charts the way “Let Your Love Flow,” had done in the pop market just a few years earlier. Success followed success: “Dancing Cowboys,” “Sugar Daddy,” “You Ain’t Just Whistlin’ Dixie,” “Lovers Live Longer,” “Do You Love As Good As You Look,” “Redneck Girl,” “For All The Wrong Reasons,” “I Love Her Mind,” “I Need More Of You,” “Old Hippie,” “Too Much Is Not Enough,” “Kids Of The Baby Boom,” and “Reggae Cowboy” and “Crazy From The Heart,” all have lined the corridors of the Bellamy’s musical history and their walls with platinum and gold. Howard and David created a patent on the newly cool “duo” category in country music. In the era of the 2000’s, The Bellamy Brothers hold the record in both the Academy of Country Music (ACM) and the Country Music Association Awards (CMA) for the most duo nominations. Numerous Grammy nods have also been directed toward the brothers. The Bellamy Brothers latest project is their new album titled '40 Years' is an ambitious project that celebrates their career with 20 of their biggest hits and then adds 20 brand new songs in this 2 cd anniversary collection.This is one Big Talent ticket….don’t miss this! |
Thursday May 23 @ 7:30
LOUISIANA HAYRIDE
Always Something New!
LOUISIANA HAYRIDE
Always Something New!
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LOUISIANA HAYRIDE SHOW – Always Something New!
Take a trip down memory lane with this unique and incredibly entertaining musical celebration. The Louisiana Hayride Show, with amazing world class tribute artists and live band will bring you back in time to when songs were meaningful, the words were understood and the sound was pleasant. Legendary stars will come to life before your eyes! You’ll think you’re at their concert when you see Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline, Buddy Holly, Lefty Frizzell, Loretta Lynn, Roy Orbison, Shania Twain, Crystal Gayle and Willie Nelson step on stage to sing their big hits. You’ll hear classics you can sing along to such as Hound Dog, Crazy, Pretty Woman, On the Road Again, Coalminer’s Daughter, That’ll Be the Day, That Don’t Impress Me Much and many more! For those who have seen this production before, the Louisiana Hayride Show is always adding new and fun material to keep you surprised and totally entertained from start to finish. Tell your friends and family and get your tickets now before the show sells out. For more information and complete tour schedule, go to www.hayrideshow.com TICKETS: $52 |
Friday July 12, 2024 @ 7:30
The Agency presents
WEST COAST CHICAGO
Feelin' Stronger Every Day Tour
The Agency presents
WEST COAST CHICAGO
Feelin' Stronger Every Day Tour
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There are extremely few Chicago tribute bands in the world and West Coast Chicago is arguably the cream of the crop, musically, vocally, and visually. West Coast Chicago captures the authentic sound of Chicago's over two-decade span of hits from 1969 to 1991. Don't miss this phenomenal tribute to one of the longest running and best selling music groups of all time.
Chicago - the legendary rock band with horns has recorded more than 38 albums and sold over 100 million records worldwide. You will hear signature classic songs like Feelin' Stronger Every Day, Saturday In The Park, 25 or 6 to 4, Hard to Say I'm Sorry, Colour My World, I'm A Man, You're the Inspiration, Free, Dialogue, Alive Again, Just You N Me, Hard Habit to Break, Look Away, Beginnings, and so much more. Experience the live multi-sensory awe-inspiring remarkable musical journey that truly is "A Celebration of the Music of Chicago". An evening of Rock, Horns, & Hits! For more information visit : West Coast Chicago TICKETS: $59 |
Thursday October 10, 2024 @ 7:30
RUMOURS
The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show
RUMOURS
The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show
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VaughnCo Entertainment is proud to present a return engagement of “Rumours” The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac tribute show based in Los Angeles, California. The group recreates the legendary band in its youthful heyday from 1975-1979.
“It’s been said imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. I say THANK YOU!”- Richard Dashut Record Producer - Fleetwood Mac albums including Rumours, Tusk, Live, Mirage, Tango In The Night, and Time. After finding huge success in Los Angeles, selling out their regular Roxy Theatre performances month after month, the band moved from the world famous Sunset Strip to Casinos, Theatres, and clubs all over Canada and the United States. Rumours has meticulously put together a show that spares no detail. From period accurate equipment and costumes to spot on characterizations and musical performances, “ Rumours" takes you back to a time when music was still an unbridled cultural experience and bands weren't afraid to put on a show. TICKETS: $60 |