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New In Town: We Check Out Plenty + Spare

14 Apr

Plenty+Spare2The commercial landscape along East Hastings in the Hastings Sunrise area has seen a few changes lately and we expect there will be a few more in the coming months. We went to check out the most recent addition, being Plenty + Spare located at 2168 East Hastings Street. If you need any inspiration, they are conveniently located next to East Village Bakery. Plenty + Spare had their grand opening one week ago today after spending a few weeks getting organized in their new space.  They carry their own line of soap and  skincare products that are made without a long list of items you don’t want in your skincare products which are locally sourced whenever possible. The store also has a selection of houseware items which they will be adding to in the coming weeks and months.   If you can’t make it over to this part of East Van, their products are also available in a number of other retail locations including a few favourites of ours such as The Soap Dispensary and Much & Little on Main Street, Scout & Co. in Steveston and The Good Omen in New Westminster. For a full rundown of where their products are available, visit their website at Plenty + Spare. On the other hand if you wish to learn to make products yourself, you may wish to check our their do-it yourself workshops they will be hosting. Self-Care Sunday Workshops begin Sunday, April 30th at a cost of $56 per person.  Plenty + Spare is open Wednesday to Friday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm and Saturday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.  Stop by and support this great new addition to our local business community.

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The Berlin Waltz Comes To The Havana Theatre One Night Only April 20th

12 Apr

DevonMoreIf you missed this amazing show at the Vancouver Fringe Festival or more recently at The Cultch, you will have one chance to catch it Thursday, April 20th at The Havana Theatre.  The Berlin Waltz is a one-woman show created by Devon More. She will share with you her tales from a 100 mile pilgrimage through the former border zone of the infamous Berlin Wall. You will hear Devon recount stories told over many glasses of beer and schnapps. Her story will touch on the ripple effects of the Cold War.  The evening includes humour, satire, sock puppets, paranoia, propaganda, slam poetry and live music.  This is not your average history lesson and with all the talk of a ‘wall’ south of the border, this history lesson couldn’t come at a better time.  The show begins at 8:00 pm in the Havana Theatre located in the Havana Restaurant, great spot for a bite before or after the show.  Cost of the show is Pay What You Can.

 What people are saying about the Berlin Waltz:

 “More’s Berlin Waltz stands as a love letter to a city, an intimate encounter between biography and history, and also, a call for action.”
joyfulmagpies.com

 “Devon brings the history of the Cold War to life. … you’ll exit the performance to ruminate on the show’s poignant message about achieving the impossible through the power of people and art.”
Vue Weekly Edmonton 2016

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Circle Game: Reimagining the Music of Joni Mitchell At The Firehall Arts Centre April 29 – May 20

10 Apr

Circle Game-Joni Mitchell by Asylum Records Public DomainThe Firehall Arts Centre is bringing the music of a Canadian icon and renowned singer-songwriter, Joni Mitchell, to the stage with the production of Circle Game: Reimagining The Music of Joni Mitchell.  Artistic Producer and local talent, Donna Spencer, has created an energetic musical experience. Circle Game features six quadruple-threat talents including Rowen Kahn (Superman: Man of Steel), Scott Perrie (Godspell), Adriana Ravalli (Rock of Ages), Kimmy Choi (Avenue Q), Sara Vickruck (Love Bomb), and David Z. Cohen (Heathers: The Musical). Together they play eighteen instruments, creating modern variations on themes by Joni Mitchell.  One of the most influential female recording artists of the late 20th century, Joni Mitchell often featured social and environmental issues in her music. Mitchell’s music stands the test of time and once again she is the voice of a generation. The heartbreak of a failed love affair in “River”, the fear of imminent ecological disaster in “Big Yellow Taxi”, and the promise of a generation gathering to ‘get back to the garden’ in “Woodstock” are topics that resound as heavily today as they did fifty years ago. Donna Spencer states, “As I look back on the powerful impact Joni Mitchell’s songs had on the Baby Boomer generation, I am excited the Firehall will premiere this reimagining of her music in this production conceived and created by Millennials Andrew Cohen and Anna Kuman. Issues that Mitchell sang about in the ‘60s and ‘70s are unfortunately still relevant today. Audiences will not only be reminded of this, but given the opportunity to enjoy her beautiful poetic lyrics and masterful melodies.”  Circle Game runs from April 29th to May 20th. Tickets are available online from $23 at The Firehall Centre with several Pay What You Can Performances on Wednesdays at 1:00 pm on May 3, 10, & 17. If you are interested in a post show talk, be sure to grab your tickets for the evenings of May 4, 11, or 18, 2017.

Photo Credit: Tyler Branston

“I have to admit I felt a bit of apprehension attending Circle Game.  It bills itself, essentially, as an exploration of how music written is by and for the baby boom generation but it  speaks loud and clear to millenials. As a Gen Xer, was I going to feel skipped over? Would the dreaded auto-tune make an appearance?

In fact, I had nothing to worry about and it was a terrific show. The re-framing of Joni’s music featured tunes that were still very true to the spirit of the ‘60s – perhaps even more accessible than the originals in some cases, since Joni’s jazz-influenced rhythms were often replaced with a steady classic rock beat.

There’s an attractive set, well-choreographed dance routines, and a lot of emoting to help carry the message of each song. The 6 performers who deliver this material are all amazing triple-threat talents. Quadruple threats, in fact – I think every one of them got a chance to demonstrate their skills at singing, dancing, acting, and playing one or more musical instruments. Even though there’s no spoken lines, the delivery is very emotionally effective. I was wiping away a few tears for Little Green and grinning through Raised on Robbery.

In short, whether you listen to the oldies station without a second thought or whether it’s a bit of a guilty pleasure, you’ll thoroughly enjoy this show. If you’re a fan of musicals or enjoy watching Glee, you’ll LOVE this show, which is a lot like a musical without all that  plot getting in the way.”

Review By Tiva Quinn

CircleGameTylerBranston

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Call To Visual Artists For The Cultch Gallery 2017-2018 Season

7 Apr

CanvasOnEaselSilverbleeThe Cultch, 1895 Venables Street, has put out a call to visual artists who live and work in BC to submit applications to exhibit their work during their 2017/2018 gallery season. Each exhibition will run for 3 to 4 weeks between August 2017 and June 2018. Submissions can be single or multiple artists’ proposals.

The Cultch has built a reputation over the past 40 years as one of Western Canada’s most innovative and exciting presenting venues. The mandate of The Cultch is to contribute to the enrichment of the city and community’s social and cultural life through the presentation of innovative programs of contemporary music, theatre, dance and visual arts by established and emerging artists.

The Cultch Gallery is a multi-use space and not a traditional art gallery as it also serves as the lobby for performances and is occasionally used for meetings and other small events. Due to the diverse nature of their space, submissions that include sculptures or free standing art will not be accepted. We have set out below the submission criteria for artists:

1. An artist statement;

2. Resume/CV with contact information;

3. A complete list of images you are submitting, which should include title, size, medium. These images do not have to be the work you will be showing. They want to get a good overview of your work.

4. You can submit up to 10 images.   Note: Images should be 300 dpi and no bigger than 8″ in any direction

Deadline for applications is Monday, May 15, 2017.  If you have questions about your submission, you can contact Yuri Arajs, Gallery Coordinator at The Cultch at gallery@thecultch.com. Artists will be notified in June on the results of the selection process. The Cultch handles all sales and retains a 20% commission on all works sold. 

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Rescue Me: Johnny Is Looking For His Forever Home

5 Apr

JohnnyWelcome to the next installment of Rescue Me in which we feature pets waiting for adoption at the Vancouver SPCA. Today we would like to introduce you to a lovely exuberant boy named Johnny. Johnny is an 8 month old male Doberman Coonhound Cross who has done a bit of travelling. He came from Quesnel by way of the Drive For Lives Program which landed him in the West Vancouver SPCA in mid-February. He’s now made his way to the Vancouver SPCA where he is learning to be Johnny Be Good. We understand that Johnny is a high energy young pup that they believe was primarily left outside when he was a very young pup. So Johnny missed out on some prime learning opportunities. Therefore, he now he now needs an adult only home with active guardians who have time and patience to work with Johnny on his Johnny2doggie behaviour. We understand he’s a big goofy pup who loves his stuffies, chew toys and dog puzzles. He can be quite vocal (having that coon hound) thus an environment where barking may cause a disturbance may not the best for him.  Johnny is practising being polite when meeting new dogs and people, but he has a ways to go still, so needs someone that will work within through positive reinforcement based obedience. If you think you could give this beautiful goofy boy a FURever home, the Vancouver BC SPCA Shelter would love to hear from you. You can find them at 1205 East 7th Avenue or you can contact them by telephone at 604-879-7721 or by email at vancouver@spca.bc.ca. As always, we are grateful for those that can share this information so that we can find Johnny his FURever home.

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Chocolate Challenge Returns To The Gourmet Warehouse April 27, 2017

3 Apr

image descriptionIf you love chocolate, the Gourmet Warehouse is the place to be on Thursday, April 27th. They are  once again hosting the very delish Chocolate Challenge. This event pits 8 chocolatiers against each other to create something decadent with chocolate.  You have the opportunity to taste and vote who wins top prize for the best creation. In addition to chocolate, your ticket includes tastings from Earnest Ice Cream, The Preservatory, Stumptown Coffee, Tacomio, Tartine Tarts, Terra Breads, and Yorshire Tea.  Best part of all 100% of ticket sales, silent and live auction proceeds will go to the Strathcona Backpack Program, Project Chef and the Vancouver Firefighters `Snacks for Kids` Program. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased directly from Gourmet Warehouse. Event gets under way at 6:30 pm.  Come out and support this fun evening for 3 great local causes.

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How To Be At The Cultch April 12-15, 2017

31 Mar

HowToBe-300x240Do you ever wonder how to be in any given situation?  Maybe you ‘should’ have said this, or ‘should’ have done that. What do you think of someone that didn’t say the ‘right’ thing? Whether it’s family, friends or co-workers, we are often second guessing ourselves to what avail? Creator and choreographer Tara Cheyene Friedenberg will endeavor to shed light on our ‘shoulds’, ‘woulds’ and ‘coulds’ by bringing you a blend of dance, theatre and comedy all on one stage in How To Be. This performance has some local talent behind it include Marcus Youssef and Josh Martin. How To Be kicks off April 12 at The Cultch for a short run to April 15th. Tickets are available from $20 online or by phone.

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Vertical Influences By Way Of Montreal Comes To East Van April 18-30, 2017

29 Mar

VerticalInfluencesRollineLaporteThe Cultch is bringing something pretty cool, literally and figuratively, to the Britannia Ice Rink this month. Specifically, Le Patin Libre which is a new kind of award-winning ice dancing without the sparkles and stereotypes, but with a whole lot of attitude and sophistication.  Le Patin Libre was founded in 2005 by world class ex-figure skaters. Bored of the stereotypes associated with ice dancing, and desperate to escape the narrow parameters of sequins and sparkles, Le Patin Libre’s initial performances were simple but beautiful presentations on frozen ponds. Audiences loved them, but we understand the more conservative world of Canadian figure skating was unsupportive. Thanks to residencies offered by private ice rink owners in France, they were able to dedicate themselves seriously to their research and continue experimenting with the ice dancing genre. Their rebellious and boundary pushing creativity has opened up the genre in new and exciting ways. Now, in partnership with arts organizations and community ice rinks, Le Patin Libre are able to use their passion for ice skating to gather a mix of people including sport fans, art aficionados, people who might not normally spend time together, to enjoy this amazing performance. They bring their performance Vertical Influences to Britannia Ice Rick, 1661 Parker Street, April 18 to 30, 2017.  Coming off a sold-out European tour, you have the opportunity to see this inventive Canadian group break boundaries before they explode on the international scene.  Tickets for this show are available online from The Cultch, adults $46 and children $20. Evening performances begin at 7:00 pm with a number of matinee performances.

What people are saying about Vertical Influences:

“One of those rare shows I could willingly have sat through all over again …
A pure body rush. Astounding”
★★★★★” — The Guardian, UK

Photo Credit Rolline Lapointe

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Sister Shop Hosts Women’s Vintage Clothing Sale At The Biltmore Cabaret April 1st

27 Mar

SisterShopThe Sister Shop is hosting a vintage women’s clothing sale on Saturday, April 1st at the Biltmore Cabaret from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. They are raising funds for WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre which is a non-profit organization that works to end all forms of violence against women. They provide support and healing to many women locally.  At this Saturday’s fundraiser, they will have women’s vintage clothing for sale. As well some local vendors will be on hand including Jacqueline Klassen with beautiful ceramics, Sydney Gelfer with macramé and plants and some rather sweet feminist buttons/pins by Radical Buttons.  While you shop you have the opportunity to purchase mimosas, Caesars and beer. All vintage clothing not sold this Saturday will be donated to local charity thrift shops and non-profit womens’ groups. 100% of the proceeds from this event will go to WAVAW. Admission for this event is a suggested $2.00 donation.  We invite you to stop by and support this community event.

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Art For Meditation and Mindful Living By East Van Artist Carolyn Trotter

24 Mar

BaliBlissMeditationMatWe recently attended the Health & Wellness Show held in Vancouver and had the pleasure of chatting with Carolyn Trotter of Mandala Blooms Creative. Carolyn is an East Vancouver artist that makes beautiful meditation mats under the name of Mandala Creative Blooms. She received a Diploma in Art in Merchandising from Langara College and has studied graphic design, printmaking, sacred geometry, technical illustration, interior design and visual marketing in both Canada and Mexico. A series of life experiences and health challenges brought Carolyn to study yoga and meditation.  In 2014, Carolyn launched her business designing floral meditation mats with mandala centres. They are designed to provide a sacred centerpiece for a serene space to meditate.  Carolyn is committed to the integration of art, personal health and daily mindfulness with the intention of helping people heal.  Carolyn herself has faced many challenges in her life and her secrets for getting well were yoga and meditation. These practices enabled Carolyn to stay focused on the things that matter most.  We invite you to visit Mandala Blooms Creative online shop open 24/7.  Carolyn also makes colourful yoga towels with her designs as well as framed prints of her designs.  If you dig a bit deeper, you can also find some paintings at CarolynTrotter.com which we have to say, we’d love to see on any of our walls.

 

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