Tag Archives: East Vancouver

Review Of A Vancouver Guldasta On Now At The Cultch Until October 21st

10 Oct

VancouverGuldasta-PardeepSingh.jpgThe production of A Vancouver Guldasta touches on a number of themes, but the one that stood out for us was relatable. If you live in Vancouver, there’s a good chance you are an immigrant or children of immigrants. If are not, this production will be an insight to life in the 80s on a number of levels.  You almost forget how archaic the video games were by today’s standards, but they were pretty cool back then and fun. Cordless phones were those big brick things, with long antennas you pushed up and down when you made a call.  Our family home in the 1980s was a sea of gold, orange and browns, the style of the times.  All these things were part of the intimate stage set for A Vancouver Guldasta in the Cultch Lab.  This is a smaller venue which is this perfect setting for this production. You feel like you are a fly on the wall in the living room of the Dhaliwal family in the 1980s. This is also to the credit of the amazing cast that never lost our attention throughout.

A Vancouver Guldasta features the political and religious unrest in India in 1984 during which time the Indian government invaded The Golden Temple, a holy shrine of the Sikhs.  The story has a much further reach though which is at every turn in this production.  That comes in the way of Andy, a Vietnamese student living in the basement. He plays an important part in this family and highlights what many immigrant families left behind to make a better life including war, violence, persecution and hunger.  They have come to a new country to make a new life, but still long for the life they left behind, their family and their friends. In the 1980s, if you wanted to reach to those friends or family, there was no internet. You couldn’t just reach out and touch someone with a text or Facebook message to check in. If phone lines were down, there was no way to check in.

This story speaks to the many immigrants that make up a good portion of Vancouver’s population. No matter what country they are from, they still long for what was left behind.  Many immigrants have ties to violence and war which often are lost in rush to get everywhere in the day to day life of 2018. We encourage you to take time to see A Vancouver Guldasta. It’s important to understand the past to help shape a better future.  Tickets for a Vancouver Guldasta are available online via The Cultch.

Photo Credit: Pardeep Singh

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Tiva Quinn Reviews Testosterone On Now At The York Theatre

8 Oct

TestosteroneTestosterone is just delightful. Now there’s a sentence I never thought I’d write, but in a way, it sums up the feeling of this play, which is full of intriguing surprises.

I went in expecting something a bit more thinky – something about where gender identity fits into a person’s overall sense of identity and how physical transition doesn’t necessarily resolve these questions. The first minute or two offers us a large mirror and a monologue by trans man Kit Redstone that certainly makes it seem like we’re headed that way. Then came the locker room dance scene set to “It’s Raining Men” and I kind of lost track of time.

But if I had to guess, I’d say that by just 10 minutes in it was clear that nothing about this show was going to be predictable, that the laughs would just keep coming, and that somehow, through it all, we weren’t really losing sight of those heavier themes. It’s just that we were going to play with them instead of wallowing in them.

Toxic masculinity is certainly part of what gets explored here, but I think it’s important to note that on the whole, this is a show that likes men: cis, trans, straight or gay, they all get to strut their stuff and show off their good side a bit.

And you should definitely stick around for the brief Q & A afterwards. These are 4 incredibly talented and likeable guys, so it’s a safe bet getting to know the men behind the performances will only increase that warm, fuzzy feeing that comes with a big-hearted show. You can catch Testosterone at The York Theater until October 13th. Tickets available through The Cultch.

By Contributing Writer: Tiva Quinn

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JFL NorthWest Presents Chris Griffin: I’m Not Your Family Guy At The Biltmore Cabaret October 18th

3 Oct

ChrisGriffinByRebeccaBlissettCalgary-born comedian, Chris Griffin, will be performing two shows at The Biltmore Cabaret on Thursday, October 18th at 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm.  Chris has established himself as one of comedy’s most dynamic storytellers. Coming from modest beginnings, Griffin’s work ethic and sheer determination created a self-made comfortable living by his mid-twenties. At 29, he followed through with his lifelong dream of performing stand-up comedy. One year later, he won his hometown’s Great Canadian Laugh Off, leading him to set his academic degrees aside (BAs in English and Political Science), quit his stable job, sold his house, and hit the road to do what he loves best – drinking, making people laugh, and reclaiming his name after enduring over a decade of awful “Family Guy” jokes.

It is a gamble that has paid off. In 2016, Chris Griffin became the only Canadian comic in over 40 years to reach the finals at the prestigious San Francisco International Comedy Competition. That same year, he won top prize at Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Competition here in Vancouver. He has been featured at JFL NorthWest, Vancouver’s Just For Laughs Festival, for three consecutive years and has shared the stage with such notable ChrisGriffinByRebeccaBlissett2comedians as Norm Macdonald, Doug Stanhope, and Bert Kreischer.   Griffin’s enthusiasm to dive into life’s wildest experiences without any consideration for the consequences has made him a uniquely entertaining storyteller.  We expect his show to be one wild ride. Tickets are $14.99 and are now available through TicketFly.com.

Photo Credit: Rebecca Blissett

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Story Story Lie At The Rio Theatre October 23rd For Halloween Themed Fun!

1 Oct

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Back again for its third season is the hit storytelling game show “Story Story Lie”. In its season premiere on Wednesday, September 5th the show took on a back to school theme and showcased hilarious and cringe-worthy stories from the comedians school days. This show is a riot and different than any other kind of show you’ll see in Vancouver. Basically, it’s stand up comedy but where the audience gets fully involved. If you’re looking for something new and fun to do you have to check out the next Story Story Like at the Rio Theatre.

How it works is that each comedian gets five minutes to tell their story. Afterwards, the audience gets to interrogate them to try to figure out if the story is real or a lie. In the end, you text in your best guess as to which story was a lie and bust the liar! There are also prizes for those who guess right. The show is created, produced and hosted by Jo Dworschak and promises to entertain.

There are two shows coming up at the Rio Theatre, including a Halloween themed one on October 23rd. Tickets to the shows can be purchased online or at the door. If you think you have what it takes and have a good story to share, you can apply to actually be on the show! For more information, visit Story Story Lie.

By Contributing Writer: Nicole Alivojvodic

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What’s On East Van: September 28th Edition

28 Sep

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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.

Open House – Terminal City Glass Co-Op – September 29th

As part of Culture Days, Terminal City Glass at 1191 Parker Street will be opening their doors and featuring glassblowing demonstrations throughout the day this Saturday.  This is a free event. Everyone is welcome. Doors open from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Clark Walk  – September 29th 

A self-guided photo walk along Clark Drive corridor from 6th Avenue to Powell Street where you will find an exhibit, reception and live music performance and a long-running DIY arts space. Everyone is invited to join in.  Recommended time is between 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Gallery space is opening at 6:30 pm.

Ice Cream Social – Beta 5 Chocolates – September 29th & 30th

Beta 5 Chocolates is hosting another delish Ice Cream Social this weekend and there aren’t many more left. They will be winding down this event.  This weekend though you can find Pomegranate Saffron Brioche with Saffron Pistachio Swirl & Pomegranate Sherbet in a Rosewater Brioche Bun. Happens 1:00 – 5:00 pm at 413 Industrial Avenue.

Big Dog Meet Up – Trout lake – September 30th

Have a dog, or maybe you just love dogs. Dogs of VanCity is hosting its now 4th Biggest Dog MeetUp at Trout Lake this Sunday from Noon – 3:00 pm.  Free event all our welcome.

Vegan Market – The Waldorf Hotel – September 30th

We hear there will be a Vegan Market Place happening at the Waldorf Hotel, 1489 East this Sunday.  This laid back event happens from 12:00 pm  to 5:00 pm and features animal and environmentally conscious vendors and there’s a long list of vendors at that.  You can find vegan food and other ethical wares for yourself and home. Add to that there’s a bike swap, live music and some non-profits on hand.  Admission is canned goods, clothing or pet food with proceeds going to The Happy Herd Farm Sanctuary!

Free Movie ‘Monsoon Wedding’ – Britannia Community Centre – September 30th

Britannia Community Centre is again hosting a free movie night this Sunday. This week they are showing Monsoon Wedding. Everyone is welcome.  Things kick off at 6:00 pm. Free popcorn will also be on hand.

Mural Kick Off Party – The Cultch – September 30th

This summer as a result of generous donors, the South side of The Cultch has a stunning new mural which was designed and painted by the Cultch Youth Program, Ariel Martz-Oberlander, Richard Tetrault, Sharifah Marsen and Jerry Whitehead. This Sunday between 5:00pm  and 7:00 pm you are invited to a free community event and the unveiling of the mural.

Live Music, Comedy & Entertainment

Theatre has ramped up for the fall season. This weekend you can find Kamloopa at The Cultch which is high energy Indigenous matriarchal story that follows two urban Indigenous sisters and a lawless trickster who face the world head-on as they come to terms with what it means to honour who they are and where they come from. Firehall Arts Centre is featuring Never Still tonight and tomorrow.

If it’s live music you are after, we hear the Libra Room has a regular line up of music. Tangent Café hosts live jazz Sunday nights  from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. If you prefer to get out the rain Saturday, Pat’s Pub has live jazz Saturday afternoons from 3-7 pm, no cover.

Three Farmer Markets happening this weekend – Saturday it’s Riley Park (10 am – 2 pm) and Trout Lake (9 am – 2 pm) and Sunday, Mount Pleasant Farmers Market in Dude Chilling Park from 10 am – 2 pm.  To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.

Image Credit: June Hunter

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A Vancouver Guldasta Comes To The Cultch With Diwali BC – October 2-21, 2018

25 Sep

VancouverGuldasta_landscapeDiwali BC brings A Vancouver Guldasta to The Cultch. The play is written and directed by Paneet Singh and focuses on the Dhaliwals, a Punjabi family in the early 1980s. In this production, you will witness the family navigate its way through the experience of trauma and violence occurring in Punjab. At the same time their daughter has a complicated friendship with Andy, a Vietnamese refugee teen who is living in their basement. The story takes during the Indian government’s invasion of the “Golden Temple” which is the holiest shrine of the Sikhs. A Vancouver Guldasta allows you to eavesdrop on conversations otherwise reserved only for the privileged ears of living room walls. The show runs from October 2nd to 21st at 8:00 pm most evenings, but there are some 7:00 pm shows on Sunday and 2:00 pm matinees. Tickets are available online from The Cultch.

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Make It! 10 Year Anniversary Market At The Croatian Cultural Centre September 21st and 22nd

19 Sep

MakeItSeptember2018Make It! has been part of the handmade revolution for the last 10 years in Vancouver.  As such, they are celebrating with a throwback style Make It! at the Croatian Cultural Centre this Friday & Saturday.   You can expect to find many local makers including a few of our favourites: Beth & Olivia, Sarah Mulder Jewellery, The Lemon Square, The Branch and Vine and East Van’s Sriracha Revolver. As this event kicks off on Friday night, you will also find a bar with $5 drinks, music and food trucks for a fun shopping experience.  Also on hand, will be a charity silent auction with items donated by various participating Makies. 100% of the proceeds benefit the Union Gospel Mission. This Make It! Market happens Friday, September 21st from 5:00 to 9:00 pm and Saturday, September 22nd from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.  Tickets for admission are $3.00 for advance purchase on Eventbrite or $5 at the door. Children under 12 get in free.

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Weekly Stories Are Back At The Drive Coffee Bar Starting September 19th

17 Sep

WeeklySTories2018If you love storytelling, whether watching or listening to them in an intimate setting, then you may wish to check out Weekly Stories at The Drive Coffee Bar, 1670 Commercial Drive located near 1st Avenue.  This 1 hour storytelling show which took a hiatus over the summer is now back weekly starting Wednesday, September 19th.  Weekly Stories is hosted by storyteller and organizer extraordinaire Jo Dworschak of Story Story Lie and Coop Radio’s Fruit Salad.  You will hear tales from some seasoned storytellers, but each week they do try and get a new face up to take a turn.  The venue is a favourite of ours for the great coffee, selection of Cartem Donuts and some of the best sandwiches in the City by La Grotta del Fromaggio plus they also serve wine and beer.  Event runs from 7:00 pm every Wednesday night.  Admission is by donation. If you have a story to share, stop by and sign up or email Jo in advance at e: storystoryshows@gmail.com.

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The 16th Annual Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival Happens September 22, 2018

11 Sep

MOON-FESTIVAL-POSTER-2018The 16th Annual Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival happens Saturday, September 22, 2018.  This family friendly event celebrates the full moon, harvest abundance and diverse cultural traditions. The festival highlights the arts, community and the environment. It is always held on the Saturday closest to the 8th full moon of the year, the harvest moon.  The Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival started in 2003 under artistic director, Carmen Rosen and now continues every year as a co-production between the Still Moon Arts Society and Renfrew Park Community Association. If you have not attended this event previously, it is an amazing display of creativity, colour, light and music.  We encourage you to check it out.

The festivities begin in the afternoon with the Harvest Fair which kicks off at 4:00 pm and goes till 7:00 pm at Slocan Park. This event is a pre-cursor to the parade that happens at dusk.  During the Harvest Fair, there will be games, crafts, musicians, last minute lantern making, community competitions and more. As the moon rises and the sun sets, the Giant Moon Lantern along with dancers and musicians make their way to guide a twilight lantern parade through the Renfrew Ravine to Renfrew Park.  Once you arrive at Renfrew Park at about 7:30 pm, you descend into a transformed world of the stream, Still Creek. The entire area around the creek is lined with lights, floating lantern art and ethereal music. It is quite something to see.  Time slows seems to slow down as you walk through the paths and absorb the beauty of candlelight, exquisite lanterns and the shimmering stream. Once you pass through the walkway, you come upon Renfrew Park Field which is where you will find musicians playing on the main stage and a Tea Garden with food service. The evening finale features youth performers showcasing dance, stilting and fire spinning to live music. Then the big finale is a display of fireworks around 9:00 pm.

If you are looking to make a lantern, note there are a couple of workshops this week, September 11th and 12th, a Salmon Lantern Workshop and a Bird Lantern Workshop, both held at Collingwood Neighbourhood House. For more information, visit Moon Festival Workshops.

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What’s On East Van: September 7th Edition

7 Sep

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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.

Plant Club With Wine – Figaro’s Garden Centre – September 7th

The first Friday of the month, Figaro’s Garden Centre, 1896 Victoria Drive, hosts Plant Club with wine.  You are invited to come hang out between 3:30 – 5:30 pm and talk plants while enjoying a glass of mind with other plant lovers.

Vancouver Fringe Festival – Various Venues – September 6th – 16th 

The Vancouver Fringe Festival is now under way until September 16th at various venues in the City including The Cultch, The Havana Theatre in Havana Restaurant and Your Open Closet on Commercial Drive to name a few.  Some may know that Havana Restaurant recently had a kitchen fire, but they’ve put out a note saying while the restaurant is still currently closed, the theatre IS OPEN for the Vancouver Fringe Festival line up.  To see the full line up, visit Vancouver Fringe Festival.

Quiz Show With Graham Clark – Fox Cabaret – September 7th

Looking for some good laughs at the end of the week? This Friday night, local comedian Graham Clark puts on a comedy show which features segments of various TV game shows. They are presented to you in one bizarre comedic event. Graham will be joined by comedians, Emmett Hall, Aaron Read, Katie Ellen Humphries and Christine Bortolin for this Friday’s show. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door.

River District – Savour Summer Series – September 8th 

You are invited to River District for an afternoon of free fun this Saturday.  The Savour Summer Festival happens in River District’s new Town Centre Plaza between the new Starbucks and Everything Wine. There will be free live music, entertainment, giveaways, a photo booth, local food trucks and more.  Some of the entertainment includes Raincity Blue,  Bobs & Lolo and Wooden Horsemen.  Activities get under way at 2:00 pm and go till 8:00 pm.  For those that wish to come early, note the first 200 people will receive a Savour Summer hat and a popsicle.

4th Annual Burlesque Marathon – Rio Theatre – September 8th

The 4th Annual Burlesque Marathon happens this Saturday at the Rio Theatre. There is a long line talent of burlesque talent set for this event. Doors open at 8:00 pm, festivities get under way at 9:00 pm.  Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

Meet & Greet The Candidates – Commercial Street Café Sept. 8th & 9th

This weekend Commercial Street Café, 3599 Commercial Street, hosts the beginning of a series of meet and greets for those running for Mayor of Vancouver. This Saturday, come chat with independent candidate, Shauna Sylvester from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. On Sunday, another independent candidate, Kennedy Stewart will be on hand from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm to chat and answer questions about his platform.

Free Movie ‘Lady Bird’ – Britannia Community Centre – September 9th

Britannia Community Centre shows free movies on Sunday evenings from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. This week they are showing Lady Bird. All are welcome to enjoy the movie along with the free popcorn.

Live Music, Comedy & Entertainment

Looking to liven things up this weekend?  Breaking Boundaries is back at Café Deux Soleils this Saturday night. Doors at 8:30 pm, music gets under way at 9:00 pm. Cover is $10. Libra Room regularly hosts live music every night of the week. If it’s jazz your after, Sunday nights the Tangent Café regularly hosts live jazz music.  If you haven’t yet caught the documentary ‘Won’t You Be My Neighbour’ about the life of Mr. Rogers, it’s showing this weekend at the Rio Theatre Saturday at 1:15 pm and Sunday at 4:15 pm. Reviews we’ve heard it’s good, bit of a tear jerker, but good.

Three Farmer Markets happening this weekend – Saturday it’s Riley Park (10 am – 2 pm) and Trout Lake (9 am – 2 pm) and Sunday, Mount Pleasant Farmers Market in Dude Chilling Park from 10 am – 2 pm.  To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.

Image Credit: June Hunter

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