Mary’s Wedding a world of high pressure

For the first time ever, Pacific Opera Victoria has commissioned the creation of a complete opera. Set during World War I, Mary’s Wedding is based on the successful Canadian play of the same name. The story is framed by the eponymous Mary’s remembrances of correspondence with her first love, Charlie, who left to fight in […]

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3D-movie resurgence a sign of times

The Lion King 3D. The Three Musketeers. Immortals. These are just some of the movies that have been released during the current rush of 3D movies. And this isn’t the first time 3D movies have seen a surge in popularity. “In the ‘50s, 3D movies were a rise against television, which was starting to eat […]

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New Music Revue: November 16, 2011 issue

Florence & the Machine Ceremonials (Universal) 4/5 Ceremonials, the second album from English rock and soul artist Florence Welsh, makes use of a variety of instruments to create a sound that is unconventional yet welcoming. It has an interesting, light, scientific side in songs like “Never Let Me Go” and “Spectrum,” and another side that […]

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Local, Live, and Loud: November 16-29

Thursday, November 17 Hilltop Hoods, Sweatshop Union Club90NE9, 8 pm, $22 Vancouver rap veterans Sweatshop Union are in town with the Aussies from Hilltop Hoods. If you’re into politically and socially conscious rap, this show’s for you. Friday, November 18 Jon & Roy, Carmanah Sugar, 9 pm, $20 Both Jon and Roy (yes, seldom found […]

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Documentary filmmaker teaches editing as an art

Jennifer Abbott isn’t a household name. But, given current world events, it’s time for that to change. The Saltspring Island-based filmmaker—who co-directed and edited the 2003 film The Corporation—is coming to Victoria for The Art of the Edit, a workshop where she’ll be teaching students editing skills and techniques. It’s a job she’s well suited […]

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Wil blew musical load at Upstairs

Wil w/ CR Avery Thursday, November 3, 2011 Upstairs Cabaret A slam poet, a beat-boxer, a harmonica player, and a keyboardist walk up to a microphone—and they’re all the same guy. It’s CR Avery, a one-man band who’s toured with artists such as Ani DiFranco, Tom Waits, and Sage Francis. His musical talent is as […]

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Jitters looks at anxieties of Canadian actors

Jitters is a play that will appeal to theatergoers and thespians alike. The story, written by David French (Salt-Water Moon, 1949) depicts the neurotic anxiousness of opening night and the desperations of working Canadian actors. “I saw this play when it opened,” says director Patrick McDonald. “Ever since then it slips back into my life […]

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New production combines science and art

Electronic soundscapes, DNA strands as a visual motif, and inexplicably technical dance moves. It’s no wonder Dance Victoria is thrilled to be bringing Entity to town. Elise Wren, associate producer with Dance Victoria, says she’s excited to welcome the production of British dance company Wayne McGregor/Random Dance on November 4-5. “Wayne McGregor is one of […]

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The Arkells come into their own on new album

It’s been a long three years since Hamilton indie rockers The Arkells put out their debut album, Jackson Square. In that time, the band logged in a lot of hours touring around Canada, and while they made an impression on fans and critics, winning the Juno Award for new group of the year along the […]

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Arena Rock: Death breath

Napalm Death Club 9ONE9 Victoria, BC October 25 Over 27 years ago, in Birmingham, England, Napalm Death were beginning to fuse death metal with hardcore punk. Featuring abrasive vocals, sociopolitical lyrics, down-tuned guitars, and speedy punk drumming, Napalm Death were the grindcore pioneers. Strangely enough, they recently played at Club 90NE9 in Victoria. Local grinders […]

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