The Cultch, in collaboration with Urban Ink Productions, National Arts Centre English Theatre and Raven Theatre is presenting the world premiere of a powerful new musical Children of God. The show features the children of an Oji-Cree family that are sent to a residential school in Northern Ontario. This is a story of redemption for a mother who was never let past the school’s gate, and her kids, who never knew she came. Children of God offers a blend of ancient traditions and contemporary realities. They will be pulling musical inspiration from Indigenous traditions as well as Broadway hits. This musical is a timely piece that tells the heartbreaking story of the residential schools through the eyes of one Oji-Cree family. Children of God celebrates resilience and the power of the Indigenous cultural spirit. Note this performance does contain swearing and sexual content. Due to the content of the performance, Emotional Support Workers will be available to provide support to audience members who may require it. The performance takes place at The York Theatre, 639 Commercial Drive with previews taking place May 17th and 18th. Opening night is May 19th with the show running until June 3rd. Tickets are available online from The Cultch.
Children Of God At The York Theatre May 17 – June 3, 2017
12 May
Spring & Summer Farmer Markets In East Vancouver 2017
3 May
The warm Spring weather is now finally here which also brings with it more options for local produce. We are fortunate to have yet another season of farmers markets lined up which offers us not only produce, but handmade goods, artisans breads, locally made jams, cheese, free range and organic eggs and of course wineries, breweries and makers of spirits are now on hand offering tastings as well. Each market is unique and offers a little something different. Trout Lake is the largest and a great place to sit down and have a picnic on the spot at the park with your new purchases. River District is one of the smaller markets situated just below Marine Drive at the foot of Kerr Street in SE Vancouver, but generally different vendors than the markets organized by Vancouver Farmers Market. Mount Pleasant Farmers Market is also smaller than Trout Lake, but we love that it’s on a Sunday so giving some options when faced with a busy weekend. The Italian Market is held on Friday afternoons in front of the Italian Cultural Centre and is a personal favourite. Along with produce, you will find artisans, food trucks, coffee and more. The added bonus is the Italian Cultural Centre often has other events going on including art on display, live music and/or dancing. The Main Street Farmers Market is a great afternoon market and perfect for those just leaving downtown for home, or a quick cycle from Mount Pleasant and the Olympic Village. We have set out below the dates when the markets begin and end for the Spring/Summer season. We invite you to get out and support local.
Trout Lake Farmers Market
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Saturday: May 6 – October 21, 2017
Location: Lakewood Drive & E 13th Avenue
Main Street Station Farmers Market
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Every Wednesday: May 31 – October 4, 2017
Location: 1100 Block Station Street along Thornton Park across from the VIA Rail Station and near the Main St Skytrain Station
Mount Pleasant Farmers Market
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Sunday: May 28, 2017 – October 8, 2017
Location: Guelph Street between 7th & 8th Avenues (on the paved play area between Mt. Pleasant Elementary and Guelph Park/Dude Chilling Park)
Riley Park Farmers Market (New This Year)
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Saturday: June 24, 2017 – October 28, 2017
Location: 30th Avenue & Ontario Street
River District Farmers Market
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Every Saturday: May 13, 2017 – October 14, 2017
Location: 8683 Kerr Street (at E. Kent Avenue S.)
Il Mercato: Italian Market
Fridays: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
June 16, July 21 and August 18, 2017
Location: Il Centro, Italian Cultural Centre, 3075 Slocan Street (off Grandview Highway)
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Make It! At PNE Forum April 21 – 23
19 Apr
If you haven’t heard of Make It! you may be living under a rock. This event founded by siblings Chandler Herbut and Jenna Herbut in 2008, showcases artists, crafters and makers from all over Canada. This year, you will find over 200 exhibitors or ‘Makies’ at the PNE Forum from April 21st to April 23rd. You will find a wide variety of items including some personal favourites such as Beth & Olivia, The Lemon Square, Sea Luxe, Sable Shortbread, Laughing Sparrow, East Van Light, Amara Blue Designs, DIG Leather, Irit Sorokin Designs and Tessa Manu Photography. Alright, so that’s a long list. These are some of the many we will be checking out this weekend. Shopping isn’t the only thing happening at Make It! There will be music, food trucks and a beer garden as well as a silent auction with items donated by the makies with 100% of the proceeds to benefit the Union Gospel Mission. Make It! kicks off this Friday, April 21st at 11:00 am. Tickets are $5 at the door with kids under 12 free.
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The Berlin Waltz Comes To The Havana Theatre One Night Only April 20th
12 Apr
If 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
The 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
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Call To Visual Artists For The Cultch Gallery 2017-2018 Season
7 Apr
The 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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The Wood Shop – More DIY Workshops This Spring
22 Mar
Are you interested in tackling some DIY yourself projects for home, but don’t have the space? In case you haven’t heard, The Wood Shop, features some great one day do-it-yourself workshops. They are currently offering four workshops. You can choose to make a dining table, headboard, storage trunk or a planter box. The Wood Shop provides the space and the tools for the project you wish to tackle. Each workshop is led by an experienced Wood Working Educator in a professional wood working shop. You will learn how to use wood working tools and learn some introductory fabrication and finishing concepts. When they aren’t teaching classes, the Wood Shop crafts one-of-a-kind furniture and home décor items out of reclaimed wood. Cost of each class varies depending on what you choose to make, but they are offering a variety of dates. Workshops take place at 251 Southern Creek in the False Creek Flats near Main Street and Terminal Avenue. Heads up, the last time we featured these classes, they filled up quickly. Should you wish to tackle one of their projects, we recommend registering early. Note, gift certificates are available should you wish to give an early Father’s Day present For more information or to register, visit their website at The Wood Shop.
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Call For Artists By Shiny Fuzzy Muddy Show For December 2017
20 Mar
Are you a local maker, artist or crafter? Shiny Fuzzy Muddy is looking for you. They are getting prepared to host their 15th Annual Shiny Fuzzy Muddy Show on December 9 and 10, 2017 at the Heritage Hall. If you are unfamiliar with this show, it is one of ‘the’ shows to check out over the holiday season featuring high quality design and craftsmanship. They curate an amazing line up of talent. Applications are now being accepted for December’s event. If you are new artist, you also have the opportunity to submit an application under their Emerging Artist Program. Every year, they sponsor one artist/maker with under 3 years of professional experience. They provide them with a booth free of cost, so they can spend that money on supplies and display materials to help them grow their handmade business. They also provide mentorship, promotion and a chance for the artist to get a feel for the market at low risk to them. They are big believers in supporting up and coming talent and are now proud to offer this program for a 3rd year. All artists, makers and crafters are invited to submit their applications by the March 31st, 2017 deadline. To apply, visit ShinyFuzzyMuddy.com.
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The Bridal Swap Is Happening At The Croatian Cultural Centre Sunday April 2, 2017
15 Mar
Are you planning a wedding this year or maybe next year? If so, we have something for you. Weddings as many know are a fairly large expenditure, even if you are doing it on a budget. That is why we love the concept of The Bridal Swap happening April 2nd at the Croatian Cultural Centre. If you are unfamiliar with this unique concept, it brings together past brides, brides to be, decorators, wedding planners and craft artisans all under one roof. For brides to be, you have the opportunity to purchase gently used items from past brides and, of course, past brides have the opportunity to sell items from their weddings which could include the ‘dress’ and wedding décor including centerpieces, candles, linens, glassware and vases to name but a few items on hand. So instead of buying all new, it’s a great opportunity to re-use and repurpose items which we are big fans of. The Bridal Swap will also have on hand an array of artisans offering handmade items or services for your wedding day including photographers, jewellery, cakes, wedding favours, flowers, invitations and the list goes on. Bridal Swap takes place on Sunday, April 2nd from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm. Tickets are available through Eventbrite and you have two options $25 for early admission at 10:30 a.m. for first choice on items, or $15 for admission after 11:30 a.m. Now if you are a Past Bride and wish to sell some items, you are in luck, there are a few spots left. Tables are $50 and organizers are offering our followers $5 off with the discount code ILIVEINEASTVAN17.
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The 10th Annual Nifty For Fifty Sale At The Heritage Hall April 9th
13 Mar
One of the best sales in the City is back on Sunday, April 9th at the Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street. Nifty for Fifty was founded by Adhesif Clothing designer, Melissa Ferreira, in 2007 with 12 designers. It has now grown to 30 sellers with over 3,000 shoppers attending the one day sale. This year is their 10th anniversary and we expect it will be one of the best sales yet. If you are not familiar with Nifty For Fifty, the sale is a way for designers to show gratitude to their customers by clearing out local merchandise all of which is $50 or less. You can expect to find clothing, jewelry, bags, scarves and much more by 30 local designers. Some local returning designers that will be on hand include Adhesif Clothing, Allison Wonderland, and Daub & Design. There are a host of new participants this year including Black Bird Studios with nature inspired ceramics, Lana Betty with gold and silver 3D printed jewellery, Scandinazn with handmade repurposed leather goods, Wallis-Evera with modern hemp business wear and Winterluxe with recycled cashmere. A number of items available on this day will be up to 80% off. So mark your calendar for this shopping event, but just a reminder this is a mainly cash event. For those that want the best selection or first dibs at some of the great deals, we recommend you get their early. The sale starts at 11:00 a.m. and goes to 8:00 p.m. Admission is $2 at the door.
ILiveInEastVan.com 