Spring is finally here, and all around Prince Rupert, creatures are stirring.
Look around and you’ll find activity: the bears are emerging from their winter dens; the birds are starting to sing; and the artists, artisans, and dancers are stretching their creative muscles.
Let’s open up the doors and windows to culture this season, Prince Rupert!
Everyone here at the Crest is excited about the possibilities this March and April!
At the Lester Centre of the Arts, you’ll find a full calendar of not-to-be-missed events:
Start the season off with a laugh at the excellent Lester Centre production of Neil Simon’s chaotic comedy, Rumors. Set in New York with outrageously quirky characters who get wrapped up in an impossible farce, audience members will be surprised to learn just how easy it is to relate!
This sharp insight into all of our human foibles plays from March 21-23rd. Get tickets at Cook’s Jewellers or the Lester Centre Box Office.
Next up is Kaien Fusion, a celebration of North Coast diversity. This is a showcase of adornment, fashion, culture, and dance from around the world and right here at home.
What a magnificent way to discover the stories and customs that help make up the fabric of Prince Rupert! Past years have highlighted the intricate designs, graceful movement, and captivating musical storytelling of our beautifully multicultural region, from Coastal First Nations to Asia, Europe, and across the Americas. Contemporary dancers and local up-and-coming fashion and jewelry designers take part, as well.
The gala event includes a fashion show, an art show, and an evening of mainstage performances. Don’t miss the innovative designs and talented performers! Dress to impress –diverse cultural fashions are encouraged.
Admission to this much-anticipated evening is by donation; proceeds support the North Coast Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society.
Kaein Fusion takes place on April 6th.
The city will be buzzing with activity at the annual Creative Jam. A series of weekend-long artistic and cultural workshops invite the public to get their hands (beautifully) dirty! Professional artists, dancers, and cultural experts help attendees explore their own talents. The Arts Council’s Creative Jam brings the Prince Rupert community together to experience a wide variety of artistic pursuits, with an opportunity to learn, practice, and discover just how fulfilling art can be.
This year’s workshops include:
- Traditional North Coast Drum Making, with Uchucklesaht Nation artist, Jason Titian
- Beginner Drawing – Realistic Animals, with Quesnel artist, Sherrie Applegate
- Indo-Canadian Arts Experience – Dance, Music, & Mendhi, with Baljinder Basi, Sharon Wekel, and Hannah Korhonen
- Mosaic Mandala Making – Glass and Ceramic Art, with artist Sandra Cummings
Join the community’s artists and supporters at the entertainment-filled Saturday evening dinner at JavaDotCup.
The 2019 Creative Jam runs from March 29th-31st. Pre-registration is required. Visit the Arts Council website for more info.
Elsewhere around town:
In mid-April, see Canadian arts and culture from another perspective! Join CBC Radio 3’s charming Grant Lawrence at the Tom Rooney Playhouse for an enlightening evening of stories, music, and more. This veteran author, musician, and broadcaster has travelled the country speaking with talented artists and everyday folks whose compelling histories are sure to entertain!
See him in person on April 13th. Tickets available through Lawrence’s website.
Explore more of the Prince Rupert Indo-Canadian community at the first annual North Coast Indo-Canadian Arts Club’s Vaisakhi Festival Bollywood Night! Awash with colour and flavour, this evening introduces guests to the inspired tastes, music, and dancing of India in celebration of the Nanakshahi new year.
This exciting event takes place on April 27th, see their Facebook page for more info.