It’s time to get outdoors and explore the arts in non-traditional venues throughout the Capital Region. Pack a picnic, or take advantage of available food services.
Lovers of the immortal Bard have an abundance of choice with two companies showcasing his works. Victoria’s Shakespeare by the Sea (July 1 to Aug. 3) presents Comedy of Errors and Macbeth at Clover Point Park under a tent. vicshakesea.ca.
The Greater Victoria Shakespeare Festival July 17-Aug. 16 on the beautiful grounds of Camosun College Landsdowne Campus includes Taming of the Shrew and Henry V, directed by Clayton Jevne. vicshakespeare.com.
Muse Winery on the Saanich Peninsula hosts both ballet and theatre. Ballet Étoile Canada returns with Summer Musings, a program of short scenes from classics and new works as well. Sundays July 6 and 13. balletetoilecanada.com.
Cirque du Chablis by the Peninsula Players involves a troupe of circus freaks who aspire to a better life – in vaudeville. It’s sure to be a madcap romp in song. Opens July 19 and continues to Aug. 17. thepeninsulaplayers.ca.
Clover Point is also the spot to be as When I’m 64 by JS Hill returns July 21-23. This play reading highlights the lives of six women in transition, and is sure to resonate as they recount their struggles and triumphs. Tickets $10 at the tent.
Music lovers will cheer the return of Saanich’s popular Music in the Park series, Tuesday evenings in July and August from 6-8pm. A variety of musical styles is showcased. All the parks have playgrounds, and some of the events include children’s activities. More information at Saanichsunfest.ca.
Also on Tuesday evenings, Esquimalt’s Township Community Arts Council hosts an inaugural six week series of music events in Memorial Park (on Esquimalt Road across from City Hall) starting June 24 with the Naden Band in concert. Esquimalt.ca
Art lovers will not be disappointed as Gorge on Art returns July 1 as part of the Canada Day celebrations along the Gorge (Saanich side). Saanichsunfest.ca.
If you prefer to be indoors, there are a number of shows to highlight.
The third annual Pacific Tattoo (July 12/13 at Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre), is the only annual international military tattoo on the West Coast of North America. pacifictattoo.ca.
Sara-Jeanne Hosie stars in Judy – the Judy Garland Story at Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre’s Roxy Theatre July 15-27. Bluebridgetheatre.ca
Langham Court Theatre presents a rare summer show – Boeing Boeing – a romantic farce featuring three airline stewardesses and the man who loves them. July 24-Aug. 2. langhamtheatre.ca.
Enjoy a splendid evening of culinary and musical treats at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, David Foster Foundation Theatre for SENSEational BC: ‘Eh’ Musical Journey continuing throughout the summer on Thursday evenings. Oakbaybeachhotel.com.
