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Articles Tagged ‘theatre’

THE WEEKENDER: Magic, Mardi Gras, and five more ways to fill a rainy March weekend

"The Devil's Candy" plays as part of the IFCO Gala Screening. Photo credit: Directed by Tasha Waldron, photo by Martin Racine.

IFCO GALA SCREENING
Hot on the heels of this year’s Genie Awards, this annual fest showcases some alternative local film talent. The Independent Filmmakers Co-operative of Ottawa (IFCO) is celebrating its 19th birthday with a viewing of its members’ work. On the bill: a no-holds-barred depiction of drug abuse, a short travelogue on the Buddhist vision of purgatory in Northern Japan, and eight others. Put on your party hat for the post-screening mix-and-mingle with the filmmakers. Saturday, March 12. 7 p.m. $12. Screenings at the Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington St. www.ifco.ca

ROMEO & JULIET
Sock ‘n Buskin Theatre ends its 67th with that most sensuous of Shakespeare’s tragedies. Director Dave Dawson’s vision of the timeless love story incorporates simple, contemporary staging and — we’re told — some fine sword fighting scenes. Thursday, March 10 to Sunday, March 12 (it’s on next week on March 17, 18, 19, too). 8 p.m. $12, seniors and students $8. Carleton University (Kailash Mital Theatre). 613-520-3770. www.snbtheatre.com

JOHNNY VEGAS & HIS ALL-STAR BAND
Known best for his regular Wednesday gig at Maxwell’s (500+ shows and counting), local lounge legend Johnny Vegas plays a rare weekend bar gig in honour of Mardi Gras at Tucson’s annual Mardi Gras Party. Other draws: prizes for best Mardi Gras attire and an appearance by the Molson Girls (who will be showcasing Molson’s new M beer). Saturday, March 12. 9 p.m. $7. 2440 Bank St., 613-738-7596. www.tucsonsblues.com

BUGS BUNNY FILM FEST
What’s up, doc? During the Mayfair’s four-day film fest, they’ll be screening about 30 classic Looney Tunes shorts (each screening features a different set of cartoons). And, hey, looks like a rainy weekend so this may be just the ticket! Look for such favourites as One Froggy Evening and What’s Opera, Doc? Saturday, March 12 (12:30 p.m.), Sunday, March 13 (3 p.m.), Monday, March 14 (1 p.m.) and Tuesday, March 15 (1 p.m.). $10, seniors $7, children $5. 1074 Bank St., 613-730-3403. www.mayfairtheatre.ca

THE SHADOW CUTTER
Dai Vernon gained an international reputation as the only man to ever fool the great Houdini. In this play about the life of the mysterious Ottawa-born magician known as “The Professor,” two actors take on the story of Vernon’s obsessive quest for the ultimate card trick. Friday, March 11 (8 p.m.), Saturday, March 12 (4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.), and Sunday, March 13 (2 p.m). $45, seniors and students $34.21, matinees $35.30. Irving Greenberg Theatre Centre, 1233 Wellington St. W., 613-236-5196. www.gctc.ca

ARTIST’S SPA DAY WORKSHOP — DELUXE HOT SAUCE FUNDRAISER
You might think the words ‘spa day’ and ‘workshop’ don’t really go hand in hand, and perhaps hot sauce and fundraising might be considered a contradiction in terms, but the folks behind this unique event are used to challenging norms and shaking things up. Deluxe Hot Sauce, a theatre group that includes such recognizable local names as Kelly Rigole and Annie Lefebvre, is raising funds for the production of their June 2012 show, and they’re offering their services in a novel ‘spa day’ for artists. Hone your tones, act the part, or learn the important skills of grant writing; there are lots of options (and price points) depending on your interest. Sunday, March 13. 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. $25 – $90. The Ottawa School of Speech and Drama, 294 Picton Ave. Facebook site.

WISH ME I’M IRISH
Part of a series of fundraisers in support of the Children’s Wish Foundation, this precursor to St. Patrick’s Day offers authentic Irish fare, Irish music, and — of course — beer from the Emerald Isle. Raise a pint to St. Paddy, kick up a jig, discover the lore of the tartans, and help fund a great cause, all while getting your Irish on. Special guests include Sandy Sharkey of BOB FM. Admission includes a three course meal and one alcoholic beverage. Thursday, March 10. 6:30 p.m. $35. Grace O’Malley’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, 1541 Merivale Rd.  Facebook site.

Ottawa Magazine Staff  |  March 9, 2011 at 12:00 pm

The Weekender: Freaky animation, a folk duo, and five other fun activities

Artophile will be at the Ottawa Antique Show (Oct. 22 to 24) with rare Hollywood art by Silvano "Nano" Campeggi.

OTTAWA ANTIQUE SHOW
Spend a weekend trolling for treasure at this sale that runs the gamut from the traditional (furniture, fine china) to the extraordinary (“wearable art” designed for Karl Lagerfeld, retro handbags). There are 70 boutique vendors to choose from, but our vote for coolest wares goes to Artophile, which sells rare original Hollywood art by Silvano “Nano” Campeggi. Take home an illustration of leading lady Marilyn Monroe or film posters from classics like Casablanca. $10, under 18 free. Oct. 22 to 24. Carleton University Field House, 613-521-1970. www.asinter.com

OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL WRITERS FESTIVAL
This jam-packed festival brings the best writers from around the world to various Ottawa venues for author talks, readings, performances, and other fun events — like brunch! This is your chance to ask that favourite writer about that weird plot twist, tell the famous poet how much you love their work, and meet other local bookworms. A few event suggestions: Capital Xtra’s Transgress always makes for a great, R-rated time (Fri., Oct. 22); Tarek Fatah’s conversation with Lucy van Oldenbarneveld is bound to raise some controversial issues; and a trio of authors, including Giller Prize winner David Bergen, will explore family relationships as they play out in fiction (Sun., Oct. 24). See website for full schedule. $15, students and seniors $10, free for Carleton University students. Oct. 20 to 26. Various venues. 613-562-1243. www.writersfestival.org

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Ottawa Magazine Staff  |  October 20, 2010 at 12:28 pm

An adventure in urban art, a picnic with Nikki, and three other wicked weekend events

URBAN ART @ MINTO PARK (FREE!)
Check out the local art scene while basking in the sun. This fresh air market brings 50 artists and artisans together to sell their wares, which include paintings, jewellery, puppets, glassware, and more. Some of the participants are veterans, while others are looking to make a name for themselves. July 24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Minto Park (Elgin Street at Gilmour Street). www.urbanartinmintopark.blogspot.com

Nikki Yanofsky joins the NAC Orchestra for Orchestras in the Park.

ORCHESTRAS IN THE PARK (FREE!)
Even if you cringed every time “I Believe” played against a video montage of Olympic moments last winter, you gotta give Nikki Yanofsky credit. The Montreal signer has wowed audiences with her vocal range — and managed to stay in the limelight sans tantrums or other immature behaviour that we’ve come to expect from starlets. And the outfits! (Please, o please, rock some Converse high-tops and/or sequined soccer shorts this weekend!) Nikki will be accompanied by the NAC Orchestra (Edwin Outwater, conductor). So pack a picnic and help bring a Hollywood Bowl vibe to LeBreton Flats. July 24 at 7:30 p.m. LeBreton Flats Park. www.nac-cna.ca

HERBFEST
Did you know the Herb of the Year is dill? Ever since 1995 the International Herb Association has chosen a herb to highlight, and this year dill gets to shine. Learn this and a whole lot more at the 15th annual Herbfest: A Celebration of Healthy Living. This year’s festivities start with a presentation by the much-loved Gay Cook, a chef cook-off, and a discussion with Diana Beresford-Kroeger — a botanist and self-defined “renegade scientist.” In the afternoon, sample local cheeses with a cheese sommelier, and learn about how to aid digestion with the help of herbs. Between events, listen to live music and enjoy garden tours. July 25, 9 p.m. to 5 p.m. $5, family pass $15. The Herb Garden, 3840 Old Almonte Rd., Almonte. www.herbfest.info

STING
The former Police frontman takes the stage for a stunning show that pairs this long-time talent with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. Try not to swoon as Maestro Steven Mercurio conducts the musicians through classics like “Every Little Things She Does is Magic” and “Fields of Gold.” July 25 at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.). $58.30-$153.30. Scotiabank Place, 1000 Palladium Dr., 613-599-3267. www.scotiabankplace.com

THE ANDREWS BROTHERS
Who doesn’t enjoy a good comedy about men in drag? Max, Lawrence, and Patrick Andrews are rehearsing for a USO show in the South Pacific with pin-up girl Peggy Jones. The boys are just temporary stand-ins, until they learn the show’s real headliners, The Andrews Sisters, won’t be able to make it out. The show can’t go on, unless there’s some way for the stars to be replaced… July 22 to Aug. 14. $38, seniors $33, and students $23. The Gladstone, 910 Gladstone Ave., 613-233-4523. www.thegladstone.ca

Dayanti Karunaratne  |  July 21, 2010 at 11:59 am

Bird sightings, urban adventure, and four other weekend activities

Lynn Miles takes the stage at the Stewart Park Music Festival in Perth. Photo courtesy Andrew MacNaughtan.

STEWART PARK MUSIC FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Slip into your Birkenstocks and take a trip to Perth this weekend for the 20th Anniversary edition of this riverside party, with two stages of music in an idyllic setting by the Tay River. If the weather holds out on Friday, pack a picnic and catch the ridiculously entertaining Arrogant Worms at 5 p.m., then stick around for local folk favourite Lynn Miles at 7 p.m. In between musical acts, browse the craft market for retro tie-dye finds and other handmade treasures. On Saturday, stretch your legs with a waterfront yoga class at 2 p.m. Then on Sunday, catch Juno-award winning singer/songwriter James Keelaghan perform old favourites and new material (12:30 p.m.). The fun begins at noon on Friday and continues until 6 p.m. on Sunday. www.stewartparkfestival.com
FOR THE BIRDS (FREE!)
Cross over the bridges into Quebec for two opportunities for viewing creatures of the winged variety. Plan an early morning stop at Pink Lake in Gatineau Park to be there when the birds are most active. A 2 km interpretive trail skirts the lake, providing a scenic walk through a lovely cedar and deciduous woodland where some of the 230 bird species native to the park make their homes (www.canadascapital.gc.ca). Your next stop is Boutique Arthena in Chelsea, a gallery/boutique promoting local artists and featuring eco-friendly products for the home and garden. An avian-themed event showcases watercolours of dream birds by Petite-Nation mixed media artist Sally Lee Sheeks, wire sculptures by Lisa Brunetta, and other bird-themed artwork. Sheeks will be on-site this Sunday, July 18, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for a guided tour and demonstration of her technique. Boutique Arthena, 205, Old Chelsea Rd., 819-827-0191. www.arthena.ca

NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD LIVE
If you’re heading to Bluesfest this weekend, be sure to check out the creative re-imagining of this zombie classic, which features the horror movie and a cast of local actors reciting the dialogue. Local band the Hilotrons will provide an eerie score. Film buffs should be on the lookout for the film’s director, George A. Romero, at the show on Saturday night. July 16 and 17 at 9 pm. Day passes $45 (Friday) and $55 (Saturday). Barney Danson Theatre in the War Museum, 1 Vimy Place. www.ottawabluesfest.ca

MITSUBISHI CITY CHASE
If you think you would be great at The Amazing Race, here’s a chance to test your skills. This event (which takes place worldwide) pits teams of two against each other in a six-hour urban adventure that will test your city knowledge and teamwork skills as well as your physical and intellectual prowess. Complete challenges at “Chase Points” across town and vie for a spot at the Canadian Championships. July 17 at 9 a.m. $169.50. University of Ottawa, Tabaret Hall Lawn, 550 Cumberland St. www.mitsubishicitychase.com

2nd ANNUAL OTTAWA SOUTH ASIAN FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Because the little festivals that are just getting started need our support — and who doesn’t love Bollywood glam? Organized by the Ontario South Asian Community Association, the entertainment starts with a performance by the talented and adorable Moiz Lakhani, a 9-year-old with a captivating voice. Then, try laughter yoga with Sophie of the Sunflower Institute. The afternoon features a performance by Bollywood for Fun; based on Classic Indian Dance, and heavily influenced by Bollywood movies, Bhangra dance is a pleasure to watch — and a lot of fun to try! Evening acts include Jay Deala and Prita Chhabra. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on July 17. Confederation Park. www.southasianfestival.org

SUMMER FLING
This brand new theatre fest will be offering nine different plays this summer, for a grand total of 80 shows in six different venues. To start things off is Willy Russell’s Educating Rita about a boozy, cynical professor and his friendship with a sassy hairdresser who longs for formal education. 8 p.m., until Aug. 1. $25, students and seniors $20. Arts Court, 2 Daly St., 613-564-7240. www.artscourt.ca

Misa Kobayashi  |  July 14, 2010 at 1:40 pm

The Weekender: Fat felines, warbling whales, and four other inspired weekend ideas

WHALE TOOTH
Want something a little more intimate than the great Bluesfest party? Check out Toronto pop band Whale Tooth. Bouncy, fun, danceable. What more could you ask for on a hot summer’s night? Also on the bill: Wilderness of Manitoba and The Mountains & The Trees. July 10. $10. 753 Riverside Dr., Wakefield, 819-459-3228. www.theblacksheepinn.com

Photo courtesy Michael Gautier/Freedom Photography

THE OTTAWA FAT CATS
See the games; buy the T-shirt. The city’s new Intercounty baseball team wraps up its regular season with double-header home games against the London Majors (July 10) and the Hamilton Thunderbirds (July 11). Sunday is also fan appreciation day, so grab a cold one, enjoy the sun, and — when well-lubricated enough — belt out “Take me out to the ballgame…” $12; seniors and students $8; children (six to 12) $6; children under six, veterans, and military members free. Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd., 613-749-2020. www.ottawafatcats.com

WINDOWS (FREE!)
Do you have a favourite window? One that, as you pass by on your way to work, you can’t help but peek into? In a new series of large format prints, artist Chelsea Delorme reveals a few of her favourites. The intriguing images place the viewer as an outsider looking into the windows of 18 homes in downtown Ottawa, and explore the relationship between the public and the private in a striking new way. Opens July 8. Ottawa School of Art (Orleans Campus Gallery). 245 Centrum Blvd., 613-580-2765. www.artottawa.ca

MAKE POP ART
Channel your Studio 54 years! Make your own Warhol-inspired masterpiece! The arty experts from the National Gallery share the artist’s screen-printing secrets — and give you tips — in this fun workshop. $25. Registration required. July 10, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 380 Sussex Dr., 613-998-8888. www.gallery.ca

THE SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW (FREE!)
Starting this week, the NCC presents Mosaika: Canada Through the Eyes of its People, a high-definition video that will be projected against the Parliament Buildings all summer. The soundtrack and stories highlight Canada’s physical and cultural landscapes. Feeling creative? There’s an interactive component that allows Canucks to share their thoughts about the True North through text, video, and audio. Bilingual shows nightly (weather permitting) starting July 8. Parliament Hill, 613-239-5000. www.mosaika-sl.ca

BLITHE SPIRIT
Zip down to Perth (it’s just an hour) for the launch of the Classic Theatre Festival, a new fest highlighting the Golden Age of Broadway and the London Stage. First up, Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit, a hilarious comedy about a novelist with an interest in the occult — and the mess he gets into when he tries to bring his first wife back from the dead. July 9 – August 1. $21 – $33. 63 Gore St., 1-877-283-1283. www.classictheatre.ca

Dayanti Karunaratne  |  July 7, 2010 at 12:38 pm

The Weekender: Sweaty dancing and six other things to do this weekend

1. OTTAWA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Sure, the race gets bigger every year, with close to 200 teams of paddlers duking it out for dragon boat glory, but armchair athletes will also appreciate the liquid entertainment (great beer tent!) and musical offerings by the likes of MonkeyJunk and Bedouin Soundclash (Saturday) and 54-40 (Sunday). June 18-20. Mooney’s Bay, 2960 Riverside Dr., 613-238-7711, dragonboat.net.

Lindsay Campbell is just one of the artists whose work you'll find at La Petite Mort this weekend.

2. UNLOAD II (FREE!)
For the second year in a row, La Petite Mort gathers some of the city’s top artists for what they call a “collective creative dumpfest.” The rules are few (large prints, small sketches) and the prices low, with plenty of pieces under $500. The lineup for this five-day exhibit includes Stefan Thompson, Howie Tsui, Daniel Martelock, Guillermo Trejo, and Lindsay Campbell. June 19-24. La Petite Mort Gallery, 306 Cumberland St., lapetitemortgallery.com.

3. TIMEKODE
Still the best, sweatiest dance party in the city, for its June edition Timekode brings in two heavyweights from Toronto to take the dance floor to a new level. Special guests Big Jacks, a formidable force on the mixtape scene, and Bozack Morris, the party rocker of Black Rap, will join the regular Timekode crew for a long night of soulful dancefloor wrecking. June 18. Eri Café, 953 Somerset St. W., timekode.com.

4. SIMPLY RAW FESTIVAL (FREE!)
There’s always something happening at Central Park. Two weeks ago, it was the artsy types. This weekend, the Glebe is filled with raw-food-loving, eco-conscious types, who congregate to talk healthy living and taste-test a vegan pie or two. The lineup of speakers includes the fabulous Bif Naked. June 19, 10 a.m. –9 p.m. Central Park, simplyraw.ca.

5. NO PANTS DANCE PARTY
Rockalily Burlesque teams up with Babylon nightclub for its 3rd annual NPDP — and by no pants, they mean no outer pants. Underwear (gorgeous or flashy) is a must. Dance the night away sans pants AND catch a burlesque show! Prizes for best pantsless outfits! $8. June 19, 9 p.m. –2:30 a.m. 317 Bank St., babylonclub.ca.

6. CARIVIBE
Caribbean culture steals the spotlight! Kick off the day with a parade down St. Joseph Boulevard at noon, and then head to the beach at Petrie Island, where you’ll find beats by steel pan bands, traditional Caribbean cuisine, and activities for the whole family. June 19. $10 on the beach; free for children under 12. 613-590-1888, carivibe.com.

7. OTTAWA FRINGE FESTIVAL
Quirky characters, strange situations, and experimental treatments are on the bill at the fringe, with theatre artists encouraged to make bold choices and be “unrestricted”in the name of art. Saturday and Sunday are jam-packed with more than 30 shows each day at venues around town. Content ranges from love stories with a twist to the history of burlesque, and everything in between. Until June 27. Prices vary by show; passes available. 613-232-6162, ottawafringe.com.

Misa Kobayashi  |  June 16, 2010 at 11:48 am

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