Tag Archives: Dance

Hot Honey Brown – The Remix At The York Theatre September 23 to October 8

29 Aug

The Cultch presents Hot Brown Honey—The Remix, the latest embodiment of the hit show Hot Brown Honey. Produced by Quiet Riot, in partnership with Kim “Busty Beatz” Bowers and Lisa Fa’alafi, Hot Brown Honey—The Remix plays the York Theatre, September 23 to October 8, 2022.

Steeped in the ‘Word of The Mother’ and packing a punch of Hip Hop politics, Hot Brown Honey is a world-renowned, award-winning production that spins tradition on its head, going above and beyond to challenge boundaries and embrace resilience. Equal parts theatrical masterpiece and social activism, a stellar posse of phenomenal World First Nations women smash stereotypes—through song, dance, beatboxing, striptease, comedy and spoken word—in an unapologetic celebration of our similarities and differences.

Hot Brown Honey played to sold-out houses at the York Theatre in 2018 and 2019. Cultch Executive Director, Heather Redfern enthusiastically expressed that the reason it is coming back for the third time is that, “it is that sensational of a show, and people have been asking to see it again…AND it’s the remix!”

Hot Brown Honey—The Remix brings back some familiar faces as well as a whole group of artists new to the York Stage. “We are bringing back everything you love from the original show but we are upping the anti with extra sweet treats!!” say The Honeys. “Including super talented new cast members, a whole lot of HBH original music mixed with a sprinkle of stupidity from our bros, the Hot Brown Homies, are just some of the surprises we have in store for you all.” Tickets starts from $49 and are on sale now at The Cultch.

What people are saying about Hot Honey Brown:

“It’s phenomenal – sexy, foot-stomping fun and radical consciousness-raising all at the same time.”
The Scotsman

“Hot Brown Honey is a loud, proud evening of consciousness raising; a series of lessons on race and gender that says you can have your revolution and dance to it, too” — Vancouver Sun

“…an all-female cabaret-style show from Australia that takes on gender, sexism, colonialism and race with a raucous glee..” The Guardian 

The Firehall Arts Centre Opens Their 2022 Season With John January 12 – 15

8 Jan

The Firehall Arts Centre opens their 2022 season with Helen Walkley’s powerful dance/theatre piece, John. The production takes place from Wednesday, January 12 to Saturday, January 15, 2022.

“John is a memoir of my oldest brother who disappeared from Vancouver in May of 1969, never to be heard from again. I sourced from an archive of family letters dating from 1959–2010, which document the years leading up to his disappearance, his medical history, and the subsequent tracking my parents did of his disappearance. He was twenty-three at the time and I was thirteen.” – Helen Walkley.

“John is such a powerful, intimate piece that you are left feeling like you know this mysterious person,” says Artistic Producer Donna Spencer. “The performers, Josh Martin and Billy Marchenski, work together and apart in a manner that captures the inner feelings and outer conflicts of this young man. The work takes you on a journey of hope and loss with gentleness and frustration – it is a wonderful and memorable night of dance theatre.” – Helen Walkley

The production is choreographed by Helen Walkley and performed by Josh Martin and Billy Marchenski, John premiered and wowed audiences during its sold-out run at the 2019 Dancing on the Edge Festival.

Performances at the Firehall Arts Centre are continuing live at 50% capacity, masks and proof of vaccination will be required. To purchase tickets for the live performance, visit Firehall Arts Centre.

Photo Credit: Chris Randle

The Firehall Arts Centre Kicks Off Their 39th Season With Chapter 21

9 Sep

The Firehall Arts Centre has just announced its 39th season, and Artistic Producer Donna Spencer has proudly programmed it as a Reunion Season.  “We have heard from Firehall audiences how much they miss theatre and dance in their lives,” says Spencer. “And in our 2021-2022 season, we are looking forward to having a reunion – a reunion with them and with the artists and creative teams we have missed so much. In some instances, the productions will be reuniting the Firehall with artists we haven’t worked with for a long time, and in others, our creative teams will be exploring stories that reunite characters with their past.”

With that in mind, the Firehall Arts Centre opens its 2021-2022 season with the world premiere of Raven Spirit Dance’s Chapter 21 from September 29 to October 3, 2021.  Choreographed by Starr Muranko and directed by Yvette Nolan, Chapter 21 explores what happens when a vibrant, powerful artist comes face to face with a crippling collision of events. A dance/theatre piece, Chapter 21 is a reflection on the days that have come to pass and the art of becoming. To purchase tickets for this upcoming performance, visit Firehall Arts Centre.

Photo Credit: Erik Zennström

Outdoor Zumba Classes At Trout Lake This August

4 Aug

Looking to work off some Covid pounds? Maybe you consumed a little too much sourdough during the pandemic? OK maybe that’s just us. If you are looking to workout, but maybe not quite ready for indoor group classes, Trout Lake Community Centre has an option. They are offering outdoor Zumba classes this August on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. You can expect a great workout with some Latin rhythms to get you moving that combines Salsa, Merengue and Cumbia. Classes are designed for all fitness levels. Note, no drop-ins for these classes. Registration is required. Visit Recreation.Vancouver.ca for more details and to register.

Photo Credit: Dusan Jovic

Just Off Main – Free Outdoor Event August 14th

1 Aug

Just Off Main is an event happening Saturday, August 14th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm and you guessed it, just off Main Street. This free outdoor event will be happening on various side streets up and down Main Street. Things available to see, eat or drink include beer, burgers and dance as well as live music and yes ballerinas. Hub Cycling will be on hand along with other community organizations. There will be activities for the kids along with ice cream and cotton candy. To learn more about this upcoming event and any specific locations you wish to check out, visit Mount Pleasant BIA on Instagram.

Noche Flamenca Comes To Havana Theatre

28 Jun

If you have not experienced flamenco dance, you are truly missing out on an amazing experience. The music, the raw emotion, the dance, the storytelling, it’s like being transported to another world. If you wish to check it out, you are in luck as you don’t have to travel far. This July you can catch Noche Flamenca at Havana Theatre, 1212 Commercial Drive. The show will feature the most established Flamenco artists in the city who are continuing the legacy of Vancouver’s Flamenco scene that began at the legendary Kino almost 30 years ago. You are invited to come experience the rhythm, passion and power of this Spanish music and dance tradition. There are several upcoming shows with the first one kicking things off on July 2nd. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. To reserve your table and tickets, visit Havana Theatre.

East Van’s Housewives Of Hip Hop Kicking It On Tik Tok

17 Jan

Truth be told, we are not big fans of reality TV shows and even the mention of the housewives shows make our eyes glaze over. Then something caught our eye on a scroll through Instagram recently and we were hooked, East Van’s very own Housewives of Hip Hop.   These ladies we can get behind.  They are 6 moms brought together by their love of dance and having fun. Along their journey, they have built meaningful friendships as an added bonus.

It all started 6 years ago when the moms were dropping their kids off at Boogaloo Academy for a dance class. The ladies decided the kids were having all the fun and they wanted in on some of that. Soon after, the owner of Boogaloo Academy, Jheric Hizon, taught them some hip hop moves which they then performed at a studio year end dance and that’s where the journey took off.  In 2018, they entered some dance competitions in the “adult street dance” category and next thing you know, the ladies won 2 silver medals and invites to perform at the WestCoast Women’s Show and the Victoria Women’s Show.

So who are the women behind the Housewives of Hip Hop?  There are 6 women in total, Kerrie, Mirella, Alexa, Jen, Julie and Natalie.  Due to COVID-19 restrictions, they have been unable to dance as a group in studio, so 3 of the East Van moms who live close to each other have been dancing in back lanes, carports and parks in various parts of East Van getting their grove on to some great tunes. For those who danced their way through the 80s and 90s, you’ll recognize a number of songs. The music takes us back to a much simpler time in life, a lot to be said for that in a pandemic.

To date, the Housewives of Hip Hop have 2.7 million views on TikTok. You can check them out there, or give them a follow on Instagram @thehousewivesofhophop to cheer them on. Most video clips are 12 -15 seconds.

The Housewives of Hip Hop also have a message they wish to share with women of all ages. Find something that brings you joy.  They would like to inspire others to be true themselves, have fun and follow their passions.  They have secretly found theirs.

Photos & Video: Courtesy of The Housewives Of Hip Hop

A Very Swingin’ Christmas At The Hungarian Hall Sunday December 15

11 Dec

DanceLooking to kick up your heels this holiday season with some live music and dancing? If so, you may wish to grab your ticket for A Very Swingin’ Christmas happening this Saturday at the Hungarian Hall at 728 Kingsway near Fraser Street.  The evening features the live music of  Dane Warren (Vancouver’s Premier Frank Sinatra Tribute Artist), vocal sensation Mandy Rushton and John Cronin of the Irish Show Band “Killarney” along with the Bruce James Orchestra, a 17 piece jazz orchestra.  Tickets are $35 until December 13th after which they are $45.  Tickets include some appetizers and one complimentary cocktail, but a cash bar will also be available.  To purchase your ticket in advance, visit Eventbrite. If you wish to purchase your ticket at the door, note it’s cash only.  Take in the sounds of big band music this weekend.

What’s On East Van: December 7th Edition

7 Dec

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Our weekly feature What’s On East Van sets out some cool events for the upcoming week.  Beyond the week, we invite you to check out our Event Listing which is updated daily and features events for the month and beyond.

East Van Panto: Wizard of Oz – The York 

If you are looking for some family fun this weekend, our choice would be the East Van Panto.  This production now in its 6th year has something for everyone. Fun digs and political references for the big adults and fun interaction for the wee ones.  The production as always pokes a little fun about the unique aspects of our City.  We highly recommend this for a fun night out, or if you prefer a matinee. Tickets available via The Cultch.

Daisy Theatre: A Christmas Carol – The Cultch Until December 22nd

If you have not seen Ronnie Burkett perform with his Daisy Theatre, you truly are missing out.  This production, which is puppets for adults, is back at The Cultch and runs till December 22nd. The energy and creativity that Ronnie brings to each show is nothing short of amazing.  For tickets, visit The Cultch.

Plant Club – Figaro’s Garden Centre – December 7th

We have to admit, we love Figaro’s Garden Centre at 1896 Victoria Drive (at 3rd Ave). This Friday, you are invited to Plant Club.  Stop by and have a glass of wine between 3:30 and 6:00 pm and talk plants, or stop by to make a swag or wreath with them for the holiday season.

Tugboat Landing Artisan Market – 2010 East Kent Avenue – December 8th

The 3rd Annual Tugboat Landing Artisan Market happens this Saturday at 2010 East Kent Ave (at Victoria Drive) on the Fraser River in SE Vancouver. This is a curated market with just over 20 vendors offering a great array of items perfect for gift giving this holiday season.  There will be coffee, tea and sweets available all by donation with proceeds benefitting the Vancouver BC SPCA.  Did we mention, ILiveInEastVan will be there as a vendor with tote bags, t-shirts, toques and more.  Stop by and say hello. Free admission. Event happens 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Mushroom Cultivation – Collingwood Neighbourhood House – December 8th

If you are interested in growing and cultivating mushrooms, there’s an introductory Workshop this Saturday at the Collingwood Neighbourhood House from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm.  You will learn lots of simple DIY methods. Cost is $35. To register, email collingwoodurbanag@gmail.com.

Weirdos Holiday Market – Wise Hall – December 8th & 9th

This weekend the Wise Hall plays host to the Weirdos Holiday Market. Think eclectic, outlandish, unique and unusual gifts that are most definitely on the quirky side.  Admission is $2 and happens Saturday and Sunday 11:00 am – 6 pm.

Winter Wonderland – Mt. Pleasant Neighbhourhood House –December 8th

This weekend, Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House hosts a Winter Wonderland. You are invited to walk through a Winter Wonderland, take a picture with Santa and enjoy a breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs and sausage along with coffee & tea. Cost for Winter Wonderland only is $2 per person.  For Breakfast and Winter Wonderland, the cost is $6 for adults, $3 for children 3-12 years, children 2 and under are free.  Breakfast event happens Saturday with time slots from 9:30 am to Noon.  Winter Wonderland is also available December 6th & 7th. To register, call 604.879.8208.

Shiny Fuzzy Muddy – Heritage Hall – December 8th & 9th

Shiny Fuzzy Muddy  happens this weekend at the Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street. This is  a curated market featuring amazing talent in design, art and fine craft.  Their Holiday Showcase happens Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission is $4.00 at the door.

Mr. Dance Christmas Party – The Alpen Club – December 9th

If you love to dance and want others to dance with, then the Alpen Club might be the place for you this Sunday.  Mr. Dance regularly features 1 hour dance lessons on Sunday nights at The Alpen Club on Victoria at 33rd Avenue. This Sunday is their Christmas Party which will again feature at 1 hour dance lesson at 6:30 pm followed by a dance show and dancing until 11:00 pm. There is free parking and hearty German food available from The Alpen Club.   Admission is $12.

Comedy, Entertainment & Live Music

Looking for live music, Libra Room on The Drive has a regular line up of music. Tangent Café hosts live jazz Sunday nights  from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. Saturday, Pat’s Pub has live jazz Saturday afternoons from 3-7 pm, no cover.

Two winter farmer markets happen this weekend. Saturday it’s the Riley Park Farmers Market from a0:00 am to 2:00 pm and Sunday, the Hastings Park Farmers Market also happens from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.

Image Credit: June Hunter

This Duet That We’ve Already Done (so many times) At The Cultch November 27 to December 1st

21 Nov

ThisDanceYou are invited to an intriguing dance performance This Duet That We’ve Already Done (so many times).   Think an iPad for music, speakers, projector, a chair, a few pairs of shoes, whisky, water and glasses.  Frédérick Gravel, whose talent and audacity cross borders, joins the fierce and fiery Brianna Lombardo in an intimate and electrifying show. At the controls of an exhilarating playlist, the multidisciplinary artist is spreading his rock vision of the inexhaustible theme of love. They look at each other, play, dance for each other, creating a tableau in which movement portrays the poetry of everyday life. For tickets to this breathtaking production, visit The Cultch.

“Their union is fragile and outrageous, expressing with clarity the rage and
flames
of passion. Both sweet and rugged, this show is intensely beautiful”

—Toute La Culture (Paris)

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