Hello Picks People.. I had high hopes of compiling a picks of the week list for you this week but I am consumed with preparations for renovations happening next week in my place which necessitate me moving everything (including myself) out of my apartment and back in again!. I have TOO MUCH STUFF! Trying to seize the opportunity to downsize but it is a slow process. Wish me luck! Chaos is not my thing. I should be back in my place around June 3/4 and my picks should resume the following week. Till then I expect you can keep yourselves entertained. There is so much great music, theatre, movies and art going on at this time of the year. And Jazz Festival coming up June 24-July 3. Yeah! Start planning now as some events are already sold out. www.coastaljazz.ca Take care everyone. Jeni
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Jeni’s Picks of the Week May 11-15, 2016
A short list from the long list of what is going on around Vancouver this week. Please check with venues for changes and the usual apologies to any person/event not included. Healing vibes going out to our musical friends Rene Worst and Don Stewart, who are both recovering from surgery this week. 15th Annual Doxa Documentary Film Festival May 5-15 85 eye-opening documentaries from 26 countries http://www.doxafestival.ca/program/schedule http://www.westender.com/arts-culture/reel-people/reel-people-s-can-t-miss-documentaries-at-doxa-2016-1.2239723 Vancouver Art Gallery … all 4 floors open until May 15 only Mash Up 371 artworks, 156 artists, 30 curators, 3 years in the making… biggest exhibit yet at VAG http://vanartgallery.bc.ca/the_exhibitions/exhibit_mashup.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=mashup&utm_content=now-on-view&utm_campaign=web-rm-mashup “The Chef’s Table” pop up restaurant at VCC… Tues/Fri to June 30 A five course prix fixe dinner for $30.00 or $45.00 with local BC wine pairings http://www.vancouverisawesome.com/2016/04/26/the-chefs-table-pop-up-restaurant/ Lombardo’s Pizzeria returns to Expo 86 prices (in house only) In tribute to Expo 86, which kicked off 30 years ago this month, Lombardo’s, located at 1641 Commercial Drive, is offering all medium-sized pizzas for $9.75, plus taxes — the same price, the
Continue readingJeni’s Picks of the Week May 4-8, 2016
Such a heartbreaking situation in Fort McMurray. My thoughts are with all affected. As a former Red Cross worker, I cannot imagine the scope of disaster response the organization will be asked to mount with its volunteers. Please consider donating… you can go to the website https://donate.redcross.ca/ea-action/action?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=NO-DM&ea.client.id=1951&ea.campaign.id=50639 To donate $10, text the word FIRE to 45678 To donate $5, text the word REDCROSS to 30333 And meanwhile in Vancouver… I’ve signed up for the Red Cross “Be Ready” app (because although I have been involved in many disasters around the world I am totally unprepared at home!). It is free, full of practical information for many different emergency situations, and it features a geo-targeted alert system to your cell phone for a range of hazards. http://www.redcross.ca/how-we-help/emergencies-and-disasters-in-canada/be-ready-app This week.. 15th Annual Doxa Documentary Film Festival May 5-15 85 eye-opening documentaries from 26 countries http://www.doxafestival.ca/program/schedule http://www.westender.com/arts-culture/reel-people/reel-people-s-can-t-miss-documentaries-at-doxa-2016-1.2239723 Frankie’s Jazz Bar Cory Weeds Wednesday Residency continues. 8p.m. Two sets. No cover. Lots of specials. May 4th – Steve Kaldestad Trio May 11th – closed for private function May 18th – guest Bill Coon (guitar) Happy Hour also continues. 4p.m. No cover. Lots of specials. May 5/6 – Diane Lines
Continue readingJeni’s Picks of the Week April 27-May 1, 2016
Yet another picks starting out with an RIP…2016 has been a tough year already for untimely departures of iconic and influential musicians. This time the all too early passing of Prince. So sad. Celebrate his life and catch Purple Rain at the Rio on May 14 (tickets selling fast) https://www.facebook.com/events/969022053195187/permalink/971346779629381/ and a lovely cover tribute here of Purple Rain live by Gregory Porter courtesy of the BBC http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p03rw601 Frankie’s Jazz Bar Cory Weeds Wednesday Residency continues. 8p.m. Two sets. No cover. Lots of specials. April 27 – guests Darren Radtke (guitar) and Nick Peck (organ) May 4th – Steve Kaldestad Trio May 11th – closed for private function May 18th – guest Bill Coon (guitar) Happy Hour also continues. 4p.m. No cover. Lots of specials. April 28/29 – Jennifer Scott May 5/6 – Diane Lines May 12/13 – Sharon Minemoto FYI…The Libra Room has a notice posted that it is closed for 4-6 weeks and music programming has moved to Grant Street Social House at 1510 Commercial Drive until further notice. Wednesday April 27 The Emerald Supper Club 555 Gore Avenue 9p.m. Donation Dogs Do Dream Dogs Do Dream – a rich and evocative
Continue readingJeni’s Picks of the Week April 21-24, 2016
My 100th post on this site… a bit late but nevertheless an anniversary edition! April in Paris April 21-23 10th Annual Festival of Gypsy Jazz Thursday April 21st to Saturday April 23rd at St. James Hall. Van Django and Company B Jazz Band play on the 21st; Deanna Knight & The Hot Club Of Mars present their annual Cabaret night on the 22nd; and Marc Atkinson Trio and newcomers this year, Black Gardenia (featuring Daphne Roubini and Andy Smith with Paul Pigat and co.) on 23rd. https://www.facebook.com/events/1560187467613516/ http://vancouversun.com/entertainment/local-arts/five-reasons-to-attend-april-in-paris Vancouver World Music Festival April 22/23 At Rio Theatre featuring featuring: Son De Madera (Mexico), En Canto (Brazil/Seattle), Roberto Lopez Project (Colombia/Montreal), Lapis (India/BC), Ostwelve (Stō:lo/St’át’imc -First Nations), Locarno (Mexico/BC), East Van Marimba All Stars – Youth Performance Group (BC), Mazacote (Nicaragua/BC). Weekend pass $45. https://www.facebook.com/events/786266391479794/ Ireland 2016: Centenary Film Programme April 22-30 Pacific Cinematheque April 24 marks the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the 1916 Easter Rising, also known as the Easter Rebellion, a crucial moment in the history of Ireland’s struggle for independence and the ultimate creation of a sovereign Irish state. This special programme, curated by
Continue readingJeni’s Picks of the Week April 13-17, 2016
Dear Picks people.. lots of ways to dodge the spring showers and stay dry and entertained this week. Please double-check with venues in case of rescheduling and apologies to anyone/any event I missed including. Have a great week…. Craft Brewery Tasting… a fun spring time activity! http://www.vancitybuzz.com/2015/03/ultimate-guide-vancouver-craft-brewery-tasting-rooms/ VanEast Cultural Centre to April 23 (getting good reviews) The Invisible Hand A TIMELY POLITICAL THRILLER When playing the stock market means life or death…Directed by Richard Wolfe, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar (Disgraced)’s provocative play follows a kidnapped American trader in Pakistan playing the market for his life. Taut scenarios unfold as the trader works to earn his release while unwittingly handing the tools for financial chaos and political vindication to his captors. Who will decide his fate? His captors, or the whims of the market? http://thecultch.com/events/the-invisible-hand/ http://www.straight.com/arts/674181/invisible-hands-tale-terrorism-and-money-timely-it-thought-provoking VanCity Theatre Canadian Film Week April 15-22 A week long celebration of great Canadian film. Audiences will be treated to dozens of Canadian films new and old along with Special Guest appearances and Q&As with Filmmakers all week long!And on April 20th, join the rest of Canada to celebrate Canadian Film Day with
Continue readingJeni’s Picks of the Week April 5-10, 2016
Hello Picks People… showers on a Tuesday mean that I wasn’t tempted outside by the sunshine and got to my picks list. April is absolutely bursting with interesting and worthwhile events so as usual this list represents only a smattering of things to enjoy in and around Vancouver. As usual apologies to anyone/event not mentioned. Please check with venues for updates/changes. CAPTURE Photography Festival April 1-28 The annual not-for-profit Festival strives to nurture emerging talent, engage community, and spark public dialogue about photography as an art form and a vessel for communication. The April 2016 edition will present photography at over 50 esteemed galleries throughout Vancouver, and include public installations, tours, films, and a Speaker Series with artist talks and panel discussions. Some very interesting exhibitions (and receptions)!! https://capturephotofest.com Sakura Days Japan Fair April 9/10 The sakura (Japanese cherry blossom) has long been a traditional icon in Japanese culture and is a symbol of spring. In 2008, the
Continue readingJeni’s Picks of the Week March 30-April 3, 2016
Hello Picks People. So much to choose from this week resulting in a long instalment but definitely not a definitive list. As usual please check with venues as all is subject to change and apologies to anyone/any event I may not have included. REMINDER New at Frankie’s…a residency starting on Wednesday March 30th. Every Wednesday from 4pm – 6 Cory Weeds will be there with a quartet featuring a different special guest. There is no cover and there are lots of happy hour specials. March 30 – guest Ron Johnston (piano) April 6 – guest Oliver Gannon (guitar) April 13 – guest Chris Gestrin (piano) April 20 – guest Russ Botten (bass) April 27 – guests Darren Radtke (guitar) and Nick Peck (organ) Plus … Happy Hour continues at Frankie’s and please note that this week is the start of 3 – set Fridays and Saturdays. The third set starts at 11:00 and there is NO COVER. Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival Mar 24-April 17 Several community events including Cherry Jam Concert on March 24 featuring Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra String Quartet, Haiku Mime with Yayoi Hirano and Holly Burke, Vancouver Chinese Music Ensemble, Vancouver Okinawa Taiko, and The Carnival Band! http://www.vcbf.ca
Continue readingJeni’s Picks of the Week March 23-27, 2016
Happy Spring everyone and Happy Easter to those celebrating the holiday. Wishing all a great long weekend. Here is a sampling of what’s on this week around town. This is not a comprehensive list so apologies to any event/musician not listed. Shows and venues subject to change or being sold out so please check ahead of time. Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival Mar 24-April 17 Several community events including Cherry Jam Concert on March 24 featuring Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra String Quartet, Haiku Mime with Yayoi Hirano and Holly Burke, Vancouver Chinese Music Ensemble, Vancouver Okinawa Taiko, and The Carnival Band! http://www.vcbf.ca Methodorphosis March 22-30 Visualspace Gallery is excited to present Textile artist, Katherine Soucie, Dance Artist, Salome Nieto, and Interdisiplinary Artist Diane Farnsworth. They are embarking on an exploratory collaboration on defining identity through textile, dance, paint and video…accompanied by various talented musicians. The fact that they are three artists from different cultures, backgrounds, and generations, will
Continue readingJeni’s Picks of the Week March 17-21, 2016
Hello Pick’s People… no I haven’t abandoned my picks as some of you thought. I was away for a month and since being back life can be summed up in two words… renovation contractors!! (Due to small flood in my kitchen). I finally managed to compile a few late week picks so go ahead and enjoy! As usual please check with venues for last minute changes and apologies to anyone whose event I may have missed listing. New at Frankie’s…a residency starting on Wednesday March 30th. Every Wednesday from 4pm – 6 Cory Weeds will be there with a quartet featuring a different special guest. There is no cover and there are lots of happy hour specials. March 30 – guest Ron Johnston (piano) April 6 – guest Oliver Gannon (guitar) April 13 – guest Chris Gestrin (piano) April 20 – guest Russ Botten (bass) April 27 – guests Darren Radtke (guitar) and Nick Peck (organ) Plus … Happy Hour & Late night continue Happy Hour (4pm – 6, no cover, lots of specials) Mar 16 to 18 – Bruno Hubert, Mar 23 to 25 – Willie MacCalder Late Night (11pm – 1am, NOW NO COVER!!!) Mar 18/19 – André Lachance Trio,
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