– by Gillian Crowley –
Artisans Gift Gallery
The popular Artisans’ Gift Gallery runs through to December 23rd at the Community Arts Centre. In this co-op style show and sale, 43 artists show off contemporary and traditional arts and crafts in a variety of mediums. Meet and support your local artists while getting a jump on holiday shopping. Free admission and parking. Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tulista Park Gallery, 9565 Fifth Street, Sidney.
A Salute to Veterans
The Sidney Concert Band will hold its fourth annual Remembrance Day concert, “A Salute to Our Veterans,” in the Charlie White Theatre, Sidney. Under the direction of conductor Rob Bannister, the band will perform a musical tribute to our veterans with a variety of memorable tunes, marches and vocal numbers. In addition, the Saanich Peninsula Pipe Band will round out the program. Current and former serving members are encouraged to wear their medals. Sunday November 8th at 2:30 p.m. $15 at the Mary Winspear Box Office 250-656-0275.
First Chance Christmas Craft Show
With Halloween excitement behind us, the jolly red-suited fellow couldn’t be far away! Here’s another chance to get started on gift shopping from a wide selection of exceptional handcrafted items. Over 25 craft categories are represented, including pottery, metal works, sculptures, wood working, glass and yarn works, weaving, body and skin care, jewelry and tasty treats. Meet the artists, enjoy the atmosphere and find that perfect gift. Hourly door prizes and an admission fee that covers both days. Saturday November 7th from 10 a.m. to
5 p.m. and Sunday November 8th from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney.
Autumn Leaves
Depending on where you’re from, autumn can mean leaves changing colour and falling; for others it might be endless days of wind and rain, or even early snowfall. Via Choralis is presenting a collection of charming music about the autumnal season bound to take your mind away from thoughts of unpleasant weather or winter days to come. Enjoy an eclectic program by composers such as Mendelssohn, George Shearing and several West Coast composers and arrangers. Via Choralis is a mixed-voice auditioned community chamber choir based on the Saanich Peninsula and led by artistic director Nicholas Fairbank. For tickets contact Diane at viachoralis@shaw.ca or 250-652-6742. Sunday November 15th, 2:30 to 4 p.m. at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, 10030 Third Street, Sidney.
Barra MacNeil’s Celtic Christmas
This well-known musical family is deeply rooted in Celtic music, culture and history. Their numerous critically acclaimed recordings have included their own original songs as well as instrumental and vocal standards, some of which have reached Gold record status in Canada. Get ready to enjoy multiple lead vocalists, rich sibling harmonies, prowess on a wide variety of acoustic, string, percussion, and wind instruments, dancing, storytelling, Gaelic songs and a journey through an ancient culture. November 14th, 7:30 p.m., Mary Winspear Centre.
