Seaside Magazine Starfish

Seaside Arts Scene

by Gillian Crowley – 

There’s something for every member of the family this month. Celebrate the season!

The Celtic Tenors Christmas

The Celtic Tenors have established themselves as one of the most successful Classical Crossover artists to have come out of Ireland. Their eclectic mix of classical, folk, Irish and pop as well as holiday classics will surely put you in the Christmas mood. More about the group at www.celtic-tenors.com.

December 5 and 6 at 7:30 p.m. each evening. Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney.

Popovich Comedy Pet Theatre

Former Moscow Circus star Gregory Popovich leaves his regular Las Vegas gig behind to tour his juggling, clown and pet tricks act for a special presentation of “Holiday Circus”. The show is a unique blend of physical comedy, world-champion juggling and the extraordinary talents of more than 30 performing pets including dogs, cats, goats, geese, parrots and even a miniature horse. Voted Best Family Show in Vegas! Family packages available.

December 9 at 1 p.m., Farquhar Auditorium, University Centre, University of Victoria.

The Storybook Nutcracker

Ballet Étoile presents “The Storybook Nutcracker,” a unique production bringing the classic Nutcracker story to life with engaging narration and vibrant costumes. At just over 60 minutes long, this version of the Nutcracker is perfectly suited to younger audience members and first time ballet attendees. Watch for the Sugar Plum Fairies!

December 10 at 2 p.m. Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney.

Tidings: Allison Crowe with Céline Sawchuk

Canada’s amazing Allison Crowe (vocals, piano, guitar, fiddle and bodhran) will pair with exquisite cellist/vocalist Celine Sawchuk to bring “Tidings” – music for the season. Tidings delivers comforts and joys – stirring together traditional Christmas and holiday favourites from English, French and German repertoires, with an organic blend of rock, jazz, folk, roots and soul.

December 15 at 7:30 p.m., Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney.

Artisans Gift Gallery

Procrastinators rejoice! The Artisans Gift Gallery is open this month through to December 22. Find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list and support the local arts community at the same time. From unusual Christmas ornaments to unique jewelry and soft handwoven and knitted clothing, the displays show off beautifully handcrafted work from 48 local artisans. Supported by the ArtSea Community Arts Council. See article on pg. 85.

ArtSea Gallery in Tulista Park, 9565 Fifth Street, Sidney. Open Tuesday through Sunday to December 22; closed Mondays.

Peninsula Players’ Sleeping Beauty

Once again the Players will perform an engaging and fun Christmas pantomime perfect for the whole family. This novel reworking of the classic fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty is filled with humour, dancing, music and audience participation. Will the wicked fairy succeed or will goodness triumph?

December 15 to 16 at 7:30 p.m. and December 17 at 2 p.m. at Berwick Royal Oak, 4680 Elk Lake Drive.

December 22, 23 and 29 at 7:30 p.m. and December 26, 27 and 28 at 2 p.m. at the Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney. Tickets are available via www.marywinspear.ca or by calling 250-656-0275.

A Child’s Christmas in Wales

“Always on Christmas night there was music…”

A Vox Humana tradition. Dylan Thomas’ quintessential Christmastime story is read by Welshman Melville Jones and accompanied by carols. Enjoyed best with friends and family, and fun for all ages! Doors open 30 minutes before each performance. Admission by donation at the door.

December 23 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, 1973 Cultra Avenue, Saanichton.

December 24 at 2:30 p.m. at Alix Goolden Performance Hall, 907 Pandora Avenue, Victoria.

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