by Gillian Crowley –
Is there something happening in the Peninsula or Gulf Islands Art Scene we should know about? Email
gillian@seasidemagazine.ca.
There’s much to explore in the Peninsula arts scene to keep winter weather at bay this month. With all the entertainment here, who needs to get away?
Robbie Burns Dinner
You don’t have to be Scottish to enjoy the skirl of the pipes, although you might need some Scots’ blood to fully enjoy the haggis. The Greater Victoria Police Band and guests will honour the Bard, Robert Burns, with a night of dinner, music and entertainment. Proceeds go to support the Band’s community and cultural initiatives. Wearing a kilt is optional. January 21, doors open at 5 p.m, dinner at 6 p.m. Cash bar. Tickets: Mary Winspear Centre.
Canadian Guitar Quartet
This quartet has been lauded for its “fantastic, spirited playing and sheer inventiveness.” Created in 1999, the quartet has toured across North and South America and has gained a reputation as one of the finest guitar ensembles in the world. They have been broadcast on both CBC and Radio-Canada and have played in major concert halls across the country. Grab this opportunity to hear the Quartet’s mix of dynamic original music and classical masterpieces in the intimate atmosphere of the Charlie White Theatre. January 22 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: Mary Winspear Centre.
Dave Brubeck Tribute
The music of this iconic jazz composer is instantly recognizable. Few American jazz artists in the ’50s and ’60s were as influential or popular as Dave Brubeck. In 1959 his quartet released the ground-breaking Time Out album, which featured Brubeck’s unusual time signatures. Montreal’s Remi Bolduc Jazz Ensemble is bringing their tribute to Brubeck to UVic. Remi, who is considered one of Canada’s best jazz saxophonists, will be accompanied by a number of renowned jazz musicians. More at www.uvic.ca/auditorium. January 21, 7:30 p.m. Farquhar Auditorium, UVic. Tickets: 250-721-8480.
The Forgotten Children
All ages will enjoy this innovative presentation by the students of the Mountain Dream Triple Threat musical theatre school which asks: “What if things had turned out differently for Oliver and his chums from Dicken’s Oliver Twist?” A fast paced, feel-good musical drama with familiar characters such as Oliver Twist, The Artful Dodger and Little Nell. January 27, 7 to 9 p.m. Tickets: Mary Winspear Centre.
Jimmy Rankin
You won’t want to miss this popular Canadian singer-songwriter who rose to fame as lead singer, guitarist and songwriting linchpin for Cape Breton’s Rankin Family. The Rankin Family sold over two million records and earned five Junos including the “Entertainer of the Year” award. In 1990, Jimmy embarked on a solo career and has built his reputation on the dynamism of his live shows, moving effortlessly from Roots to Country and Celtic stylings. He is a top ambassador for Cape Breton’s Celtic music sound. Expect to leave humming his tunes. January 30 at 7 p.m. Tickets: Mary Winspear Centre.
