Pieces of Performance: Sovereign Ace brings Black excellence to islandReigning from Nanaimo is a most mystical and mind-bending performer. Sovereign Ace has been nothing short of an incredible creator and sharer of any fantasy realm that they can dream up. From fan of drag to performing for two years, they have presented Black excellence from Nanaimo to Victoria. Celebrating gender fluidity and freedom has […] Continue Reading |
Lydia’s Film Critique: Pink Flamingos“Kill everyone now. Condone first-degree murder. Advocate cannibalism. Eat shit. Filth is my politics, filth is my life.” Should one try to vindicate Pink Flamingos (1972) from its vile cruelty to all which is good, they may fall flat. But should they instead embrace its vile cruelty, welcome its offenses, and affirm their own derangements, […] Continue Reading |
Dropping the Needle: A lonely Valentine’s DaySpending Valentine’s alone was not part of the plan, but after my three-year relationship ended I find myself riding solo through the month of love. However, music became my companion, like an embrace, a place to vent, and even an escape from reality. Here are the best albums to help you get through different stages […] Continue Reading |
Reasons to Live… In Victoria: Chinatown—The Bubble Tea PlaceA national historic site, Victoria’s Chinatown is famous for being the oldest surviving Chinatown in Canada. The closely built brick buildings create a labyrinth of inner courtyards, alleys, and passageways, giving Chinatown its mysterious allure. This neighbourhood was originally dominated by three import-export companies, including Kwong Lee & Co. Founded by Lee Chong, it was […] Continue Reading |
Fellas, Let’s Figure It Out: Intentional communicationIn my last column, I discussed the concept of intention and how we can use it to shape our behaviours and actions. I want to use this edition to zoom in on a facet of intention that is ever so important: thinking before one speaks. Intentional talk is not something that comes naturally to all […] Continue Reading |
Pieces of Performance: Gender witch Brujo Mars/Minx Latinx representing on stageThey claim themselves lovingly as a gender witch, but audiences know the reigning Venezuelan drag king and burlesque beauty as Brujo Mars, or Minx Latinx (also known as Monika). When they started performing in April 2022, they set out to represent Latinos on stage and share an important story. “I am extremely proud to be […] Continue Reading |
Reasons to Live… In Victoria: Janevca a work in progressI turned 37 in January, which, in the words of my good friend, is “chilling.” Come to usher me into my 37th year is a medical condition that has been causing me significant pain and decreased mobility. Along with feelings of grief and self-pity, I’m also feeling grateful for the wonderful things my body has […] Continue Reading |
Lydia’s Film Critique: My Blue VelvetThere is a distinct before and after when one watches just about any film by director David Lynch. Before, of course, comes in a variety of forms and experiences. But, after is often the same result: the rebirth of a once-rotten core and a palpable sensitivity to the unknown. After Eraserhead, I felt it. And […] Continue Reading |
Pieces of Performance: The self-discovery of Serra Moanie and Lincoln SparksPerforming for decades and landing in the Victoria scene in 2023, Serra Moanie is no stranger to burlesque and performance arts. “I have been a lifelong theatre brat starting at age five,” says Moanie, “all through high school and even pursued it post-secondary for a while.” While many local legends have curated their own ways […] Continue Reading |
Dropping the Needle: Robbie Williams who?For a long time, UK music fans have scratched their heads wondering why Robbie Williams has not become a household name in North America. Now, with the release of the movie Better Man, which depicts the rise and fall of the British singer, the question rises again. To put his career into perspective we need […] Continue Reading |
