A Mother Apart at Vancouver Queer Film Festival – Searching answers, finding healing

Staceyann Chin was a ‘barrel child,’ one of the many Caribbean-born children who, in the 20th century, were left behind by parents who pursued opportunities abroad to better support their children. But these children were restricted from entering Canada alongside their parents due to baked-in immigration restrictions. Laurie Townshend’s documentary film, A Mother Apart, to be…

Exploring Ethiopian traditions at Burnaby’s annual summer festival

The Ethiopian Community Association of BC (ECABC) has long served as a central hub for many Ethiopians living in the region, offering various forms of support and fostering community. Through its range of services – including mentorship programs, language classes and health navigation – the association has looked to serve as a point of community…

The passion of flamenco with a touch of Taiwan

Bringing together a mix of Spanish culture with Tawiwanese dance, Flamenco de Formosa showcases an intergenerational story of cultural exchange detailing a mirrored love of flamenco dance between mother and daughter. The performance is choreographed and led by Ballet Nacional de España member Hsueh Yu-Hsien, and features an array of dancers including Hsueh’s mother and Taiwanese flamenco…

A creative reconnection at the Vancouver Art Book Fair

Canada’s largest and longest-running art book fair is set to return in-person for the first time since 2019. The Vancouver Art Book Fair (VABF) will feature over 80 diverse exhibitors at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre on July 26 and 27. “We’re really excited to have the fair back in person,” says Jonathan…

I am my mother’s daughter – The resonance of relationships in art

Muslim South Asian Canadian artist Farheen Haq explores the intricate beauty of familial and cultural connections, intergenerational pain and the journey towards healing. Presented by The Reach Gallery Museum, Haq’s multimedia exhibition I am my mother’s daughter displays twenty years of art through video, sculpture, performance and community engagement. “This exhibit is a record of two decades…

The Naadaleela Ensemble – The ‘new’ music of the Silk Road

The Naadaleela Ensemble will be pushing the boundaries of music at the Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival. “It’s all brand-new music that no one has ever made before,” says Naadaleela ensemble percussionist and composer Curtis Andrews. “So, when you come to see our group, you’re going to hear and see something that doesn’t exist anywhere else.”.…

Maintaining a crucial space for Black voices

In the heart of Surrey, The Black Arts Centre looks to serve as a crucial hub of community and creativity. Founded with a mission to provide a dedicated platform for Black artists across British Columbia, the youth-owned centre has since evolved into a cultural hub, providing a space where artistic expression can flourish and diverse…

Colour, life, death and paradox at Indian Summer Festival

Indian Summer Festival returns again in 2024, holding host to a breadth of musical and artistic talent. While many of the most prominent artistic events include various musical acts, the festival also includes the work of returning set designer and artist Kimira Reddy, in collaboration with Boca Del Lupo arts company. Having previously created Under the…

Culture, unity and pride: Filipino Heritage at Pinoy Festival

On June 22 at Swangard stadium, a day-long festival will celebrate the third largest visible minority group in B.C. Pinoy Festival, now running for a second year, will bring a celebration of the Philippines to Burnaby for a day of food, dance and games – all to showcase and unite its rich and diverse culture.…

Festival d’été francophone de Vancouver -Celebrating diversity and revitalizing culture through music – Ottoman Splendours

A rich world of francophone music and culture will be on full display at the 35th annual Festival d’été, or Francophone Summer Festival. This year’s festival features the music of Ottoman Splendours, a group that celebrates culturally diverse styles and forms. “We believe that the programming we are offering you is a beautiful array, coloured…

Unveiling pain and healing. A theatrical journey into mental health

Pi Theatre is set to close its 2023-2024 season with the Canadian premiere of Medicine, by award-winning Irish playwright Enda Walsh. This production delves into the complex and often misunderstood world of mental health and institutionalization. Medicine tells the story of John, a man living in an institution where local actors are hired annually to perform “drama…