Aaah, July. A time for beaches, boating, sun and fun. Sprinkle in some music, dance and visual arts to create a recipe for the perfect summer.
Raven Baroque Summer Celebrations
The Island String Players Society presents a Baroque music concert with 10 to 12 musicians in 17th-century costumes performing “hits” from the era. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to the Beacon Park Pavilion near Sidney’s pier and bask in the music. Email donkissinger@shaw.ca or call 250-514-8916. Friday, July 8 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Best of Ballet Victoria
Coming to Sidney, an eclectic and intimate evening of dance with Ballet Victoria’s best of the season short works. Enjoy the classics of Pink Floyd, Leonard Cohen, Dave Brubek, Sting and a few other surprises. Modern ballet paired with distinctive music. Saturday, July 9 at 7:30 p.m., Mary Winspear Centre.
Summer Sounds
Peninsula Celebrations Society’s annual Summer Sounds concert series starts July 10 and runs each Sunday to the end of August. Kick back, take in the ocean view and tap your feet to the music. Donations at the concert help to pay these talented performers. July 10 – Dockside Drive; July 17 – Timebenders; July 24 – 4 Chords of Wood; July 31 – Psych-a-Relics. Sundays, 2 to 4 p.m., Beacon Park Pavilion in Sidney.
Music in the Gardens
How can you beat listening to live music concerts in a gorgeous setting? Butchart Gardens once again presents open air performances each evening during the summer. For a detailed list of the concerts visit www.butchartgardens.com/activities/calendar. Here’s a taste of the music in July: 10 and 17: Odyssey String Quartet – A potpourri of Classical, Gypsy Jazz and Pop; 22: The Victoria Symphony “Folklore: Songs, Stories & Myths;” 29 to 30: Rukus: Golden Age of Rock & Roll Lives On. Bring a lawn blanket or sit on a bench. The music starts at 8 p.m. nightly except for Saturday’s concerts which start earlier (variable times) followed by the fireworks show. Concerts are part of the general admission ticket.
Travels Through an Artist’s Eye
Even if you’re having a “staycation,” you can still visit other lands via this art show inspired by travels to Spain, Morocco, Italy, United Arab Emirates, Tunisia, England, France and other parts of Canada. Batik artist Kirsten T.O. Sheffield won the 2015 People’s Choice Award at the Sidney Fine Arts Show. She is joined by watercolour and ink artist Serena J. Trinder, winner of the Muse Award for Visual Arts. Explore the world from home. July 5 to 10, Tulista Park Gallery at Fifth and Weiler, Sidney. Free admission.
Victoria Symphony Splash
Finally, don’t forget the one and only Victoria Symphony Splash on July 31. Join 40,000 others soaking up the ambiance of the Inner Harbour while the Symphony creates its magic. 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Early birds, don’t forget the sunscreen!
