In a never-ending quest to push artistic boundaries, I’m always on the lookout for arts events that blend or reinterpret genres.
Ghosts of Rorschach, presented by Dance Victoria July 26, is an evening of dance, art, photography and conversation that features the work of Broken Rhythms Dance, and photographers Alina Sotskova and Ian Sparks. “What do you see?” as dancers’ bodies create ink blot shapes. “Broken Rhythms Dance” on Facebook.
Clayton Jevne reprises his one-man interpretation of Bill Nye’s Falstaff, Aug. 1 at Merlin’s Sun Theatre, 1983 Fairfield. This bawdy and raunchy tale is a romp through the life of one of Shakespeare’s most-beloved characters. Email: timgosley@telus.net
Acclaimed Victoria comedian Wes Borg remounts the comedic revue The War of 1812 for one show only, Aug. 2 at the Victoria Event Centre (7pm) before heading to the Edmonton Fringe. Follow the adventures of a jaded Grade 8 student as he learns the story of the war told from a Canadian perspective, as recounted by none other than the ghost of Pierre Berton.
Boundary pushing also involves traveling outside of the core municipalities.
Celebrate BC Day with the first WestShore Performing Arts Festival on Monday, Aug. 4 from 10am to 8pm at Westhills Stadium (Langford). This free event features quality entertainment for the whole family, and showcases music, dance, theatre, art and artisans. westshorearts.org
Are you ready for a hip-hop version of Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors? The Bomb-itty of Errors, by Vancouver’s Twenty Something Theatre, runs August 5 to 24 at the Belfry Theatre. Belfry.bc.ca
Sunday, Aug. 10 is a very busy day artistically with events in Oak Bay and Esquimalt, as well as the return of a Pick of the Fringe show.
Kerploding Theatre presents their children’s show, TRUNK!, Aug. 10 at the Intrepid Theatre Club (11:30am, 3pm, and 7pm). Jump into the magical trunk with twins Daisy and Oliver and go along with them on their quest to save the Kingdoms from the evil witch Gwilana. Ticketrocket.org
Meander along Bowker Creek in Oak Bay for the 10th annual Bowker Creek Brush-Up, featuring the work of 50 artists practising their craft al fresco. oakbayartists.com
In Esquimalt, at Gorge Park, the Township Community Arts Council presents the 2nd annual Esquimalt Arts Festival (running in conjunction with the Gorge Swim Fest). It’s a combination of artists displaying and demonstrating their works, musicians and family fun. Bring a picnic or take advantage of the culinary offerings. Musicians are onstage from 1 to 8pm. Esquimalt.ca/events
Lacey-Lou’s Tapas Lounge is a new performance venue, tattoo shop and eatery (in the former Rising Star Bakery) that is also pushing boundaries with its unique combination of endeavours. Check out Lacey-Lou’s Improv Aug. 12 and Tongues of Fire spoken word Aug. 20. Lacey-lou.com
Lacey-Lou’s is also participating in the annual Integrate Arts Festival (formerly known as the “Off the Grid Arts Festival”) Aug. 15 and 16. The festival is focused on providing a unique opportunity to circulate and experience an integrated landscape of the arts in Victoria. Explore on foot, by bike or hop-on/hop-off bus. All participating galleries, parties, events and performances are free on the first night of the festival. integratearts.ca.
Janis La Couvée is a community builder, writer and arts advocate.