B.C. Adventures: Our picks for April

From dance performances to music festivals and more, here’s what to add to your calendar this month

1. SOUNDspace by DanceHouse – Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20

Ben McKeown

DanceHouse is partnering up with Vancouver Tap Dance Society to bring you the Canadian premiere of SOUNDspace. This performance was choreographed by Dorrance Dance’s Artistic Director, Michelle Dorrance, and features a bass-forward original musical score by musical director Gregory Richardson and a body percussion score by Leonardo Sandoval. SOUNDspace explores the dynamic between sound and movement–from the slide of the metal-tipped shoe against a hardwood floor to the slapping of bare feet. This dance had its world premiere back in 2018 in New York and was met with high praise. Enjoy an invigorating night of rhythm and movement as you admire the performers on stage!
Vancouver Playhouse600 Hamilton Street, Vancouver; Tickets from $35; Details online.

 

2. The Big Roar by Chor Leoni – Thursday, April 11 and Saturday, April 13

Phil Jack

This annual singing festival is back for another year of public concerts and workshops for all participants. The two public concerts you can expect include Harmonia: The Leonids & Chor Leoni on April 11 and The Big Roar on April 13. Harmonia is all about the beauty of a capella harmony, and explores a selection of chant, polyphony, folk and pop songs. The Big Roar is the festival’s summit concert, and features all of Chor Leoni’s programs and choirs. This concert will include singers from the Emerging Choral Artist youth programs, so make sure you show your support!
St. Andrew-Wesley’s United – 1022 Nelson Street, Vancouver; Tickets from $20; Details online.

 

3. Unit Bruises and The Marble in the Basement – Saturday, April 20 to Sunday, June 30

Richmond Art Gallery

Richmond Art Gallery is kicking off its spring season with two art exhibitions that explore the archives and art histories. Unit Bruises is curated by Michael Dang and features Theodore Saskatche Wan and Paul Wong’s work. This presentation contextualizes artworks by the two Asian-Canadian artists during a predominantly white Canadian art scene in the 1970s. The Marble in the Basement by Hazel Meyer examines the legacy of feminist artist and experimental filmmaker Joyce Wieland. This exhibition features sculptures, drawings and textile work. It was inspired by marble scraps found in Wieland’s basement after her death.
7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond; Tickets by donation; Details online.

 

4. Over the Ridge – Saturday, April 13 

Kevin Clark

Enjoy the world premiere of this contemporary dance performance by The Fugitives and choreographer Jacob Williams this spring! This production is a reiteration of Ridge, a musical that premiered in 2020 about a WW1 Canadian soldier’s experience during the Battle of Vimy. Over the Ridge adds an original dance choreography to the musical performance, making the show more dynamic than ever before.
Massey Theatre – 735 8th Avenue, New Westminster; Tickets from $45; Details online.

 

5. This Is How We Got Here – Saturday, April 13 to Sunday, April 28

Firehall Arts Centre

This heart wrenching play by Keith Barker explores a grieving family’s dynamic. Embark on a journey of destruction in a once close-knit family as it is being broken down by lingering trauma. The fox in this play symbolizes a moment of change for this family. You can witness how this symbol plays a part in the family re-learning how to interact with one another through humour and forgiveness.
Firehall Arts Centre – 280 E. Cordova Street, Vancouver; Tickets from $30; Details online.

 

6. The Big Reveal: Why Drag Matters – Thursday, April 18

Sasha Velour

As a part of their Speaker Series, The Phil Land Initiative is bringing in gender-fluid drag queen and author Sasha Velour to delve into the topic of drag. She is bringing her unique perspective as a RuPaul’s Drag Race winner, and will be exploring the intersections of pop politics and pop culture. Get ready to be inspired during this captivating talk about the significance of the transformative artistry that is drag.
Chan Centre for the Performing Arts – 6265 Crescent Road, Vancouver; Free entry, registration required; Details online.

 

7. Food Truck Wars 2024 – Friday, April 19 to Sunday, April 21

Karisa Cheng

Calling all foodies! Food Truck Wars is back for another head-on battle between the local stalls. Explore foods from over 45 food vendors and decide for yourself who is the greatest of them all! From savoury to sweet, there is surely something for everyone.
KPU Langley Campus – 20901 Langley Bypass, Langley; Tickets by donation; Details online.

 

8. Audacious Improv – Wednesday, April 3 to Wednesday, April 24

Sassafras & Co.

A brand new improv class is open for registration now! Improv artist Stephen Keppler will be teaching this adults and teens only class, made for you to improve your improv skills for the stage. Dive into the creative atmosphere with other passionate aspiring improv artists! Classes are held every Wednesday until April 24.
The Innovation Centre – 101- 460 Doyle Avenue, Kelowna; Tickets from $38.08; Details online.

 

9. AltiTunes Music Festival 2024 – Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6

AltiTunes

The AltiTunes Music Festival is back at Big White Ski Resort. Some headliners this year include Elderbrook, Milky Chance and Vaandelux. Spend time with your friends jamming to the music and enjoying shared bites on the snowy slopes. Heads up–this is a 19+ event, sorry kids!
Big White Ski Resort – 5315 Big White Road, Kelowna; Tickets from $113.80; Details online.