Archive
Shawn Sorensen: Massey Theatre Technical Dad-rector
We wanted to take the opportunity this Father’s Day to introduce you to one of the Massey Theatre Staff who help make our theatre such an incredible place. Shawn Sorensen, Massey Theatre Co-Technical Director. In the almost three years he’s been at the Massey Theatre, he has become a true father figure to many. Not because of his age but because of who he is. A man who is filled with grace and humility who leads by example. Someone who stands up, stands beside, lifts up and amplifies the people around him. He is what a father should be.
Shawn does a lot. At work, at home, and in his ‘off time’ (we’re not sure where he finds this off time to be honest with you). He wears many hats. And socks. He has over 15 pairs of very fancy stylish artisanal socks. And he even has a favourite pair.
Quiet. TD at work
At Massey, Shawn is Co-Technical director. He and Stephen Jackson ensure that our theatre technical operations run smoothly and seamlessly, making everything onstage looks like it happens magically. Shawn is also our Safety lead, which has meant extra work and care during the COVID-19 pandemic. He and Stephen also mentor the next generation of theatre technicians by volunteering to lead the NWSS Tech Club.
Shawn and his ‘little brother’ Tyrus
As a volunteer, Shawn is a Big Brother to Tyrus. He and Tyrus have been teamed together for four years, and during that time they have grown a friendship and relationship that goes beyond a volunteer mentor/mentee role. They have learned from each other and become better people in the process. There are over 200 kids waiting for Big Brothers or Sisters sisters right now in Metro Vancouver. Luckily, Tyrus isn’t one of them thanks to Shawn.
Shawn serving fierce drag looks as part of the Zee Zee Theatre board
Shawn also served on the board of Zee Zee Theatre for five years. Zee Zee Theatre is a Vancouver based theatre company, devoted to telling diverse stories and amplifying the voices of those on the margins. As a board member, Shawn lent his voice, and his body, to lift up and amplify. He recently left Zee Zee’s board as he accepted a position on the board of his housing co-op.
The Sorensens
Shawn and his partner Meghan are parents of two girls. Dagny who lives in their hearts and their delightful spark of a rainbow baby, Oona. Losing a child is devastating and almost impossible to navigate. Their experience in loss led them to become surrogates for a family they met in the loss group that Meghan was leading.
In his spare time (Really? Spare time?) he dreams of being a cicerone. He has started a beer book club and is further exploring his love of beer as a father figure WITH a father figure. We follow his adventures on Instagram and we think you should too.
We asked Shawn what he loved most about working at the Massey and being a dad. He said he was proud of the programming we engage in, which often means something directly to him. Our organisation tries very hard to identify the inequities and disparities within our community, and bring relevant and accessible programming, when we do do it. And the best part of being a dad is having the opportunity to bring more love and empathy to the world through his daughter.
Happy Father’s Day Shawn and all the dads out there. The ones who are here, the ones who have taken on the role of Dad and the ones who are gone but never forgotten. We love you for all that you have done and all that you do. We hear you in terrible jokes and we feel you lifting us up when life gets us down.
Shawn’s Dad joke: When does a Dad joke become a Dad joke. When it’s apparent.
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Plaskett Gallery: Art from Apart
As a first step in re-opening the Massey to public activity, the Plaskett Gallery will be opened on a by-appointment basis. In order to maintain pandemic health and safety measures while maximizing the number of people able to experience the program.
You may now book 30 minute visits at the Plaskett Gallery with your bubble! Book conveniently ONLINE or by phoning our box office at 604.521.5050
Visits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A maximum of 10 people will be allowed at a time. Your party will be asked to state that you have assessed yourself for Covid 19 symptoms before entering. You will all be required to provide contact information for the purposes of contact tracing by the government if that is needed for any reason.
The current exhibit open for viewing is Liminal Space
Liminal Space is where transformation takes place.
It is the time between what was and what will be next. When one has the potential to act, but has not yet done so.
This process of waiting, not knowing what will become, is part of the process that we must patiently embrace – letting it form us.
This state of mind inspired the pieces in this collection. It chronicles the journey from the first steps to the other side, a new beginning…the anticipation of what is to come.
Show runs from June 9-June 30 Tuesday to Saturday from 1-5 pm by appointment only.
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Our commitment to do more
Participation in the arts is dominated by communities who have historically received access and inclusion. The Massey Theatre is committed to increasing access and inclusion for Black community members and artists.
Seeing one’s self reflected in art, in story, in music; being empowered and applauded, particularly for youth and children, builds an important sense of belonging and of being valued.
Currently, violent acts against Black bodies circulate and dominate our view. In response, we offer the use of our physical and human resources to Black community members. Strengthen yourselves and these global social movements with these supports. Facilitate, connect, restore, speak your truths and be heard, we will assist you.
This week we are reengaging with members of BC’s Black artistic community to co-create opportunities which elevate Black voices and inter-connect communities. We invite Black community members and organizations to feed and inform this programming and we call on the community at large to learn and take action toward social change.
Please contact jessica@masseytheatre.com if you wish to be involved in supporting or developing these activities or if you have any questions or concerns.
Black Canadian artists embody the resilience and achievements of their ancestors, survivors of a brutal legacy and their work offers valuable perspectives. This collection of National Film Board of Canada films by award winning Black filmmakers, creators and allies is a mere tip of the iceberg of work created by Black artists in Canada. We invite you to watch and learn.
Giving Tuesday: Royal City Musical Theatre
Giving Tuesday Now is May 5th. A day when Canadians are encouraged to give to their favourite charitable organizations. A day that highlights both the generosity of people and the powerful work and needs of incredible organizations across the nation.
Usually charitable organizations highlight the work they do and the challenges they are facing to ask for donations. Although Massey Theatre Society is a charitable organization, we have chosen not to do that.
Of course the theatre is going through challenging times this year. But this Giving Tuesday, we encourage you to give to Royal City Musical Theatre Society.
For three of the theatre’s six decades, April has been a month of exceptional musical theatre at the Massey Theatre. Community members and professional artists have joined forces for over thirty years to lift spirits to astronomical heights with sound, movement, spirit and song. Our theatre was filled with audiences, appreciators and artists. Each one of those hundreds of performances ended with thunderous applause and folks leaping to their feet. All because of Royal City Musical Theatre.
This April, all was dark. Absolute silence and stillness descended on our beloved theatre. A beating heart of our community paused.
For 30 magical years, they have brought Broadway to New Westminster. And like Broadway, this year, the show couldn’t go on. The production was cancelled after the budget was spent, only two weeks before the show was to load into the theatre and begin its ascent to the public performances.
Theatre companies like Royal City Musical Theatre rely on ticket sales to produce their shows. Without those ticket sales, their future is on the line.
Your donation on Giving Tuesday will help RCMT resolve the huge financial impacts of cancelling the production. It will help them begin to envision going on in the future and returning to production as soon as that is conceivable.
Giving to RCMT will bring back those magical and exceptional nights on the Massey stage. Nights when the restaurants are packed before the show and the streets are filled with local and visiting families and friends strolling to the theatre for one of the best nights out of the year, every year.
Please consider giving your tax deductible Giving Tuesday donation to Royal City Musical Theatre. Donations can be made online, by mail to Royal City Musical Theatre Society c/o Massey Theatre 735 8th Ave, New Westminster, BC V3M 2R2, by email at donations@royalcitymusicaltheatre.com or over the phone by calling the Massey Theatre Box office at 604.521.5050.
The show must go on.
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Under the Rainbow Family Weekend
This February, Massey Theatre is celebrating diverse families with a variety of presentations for young and old alike. With a fabulous iconic film, a multigenerational queer family performance, and a contemporary Indigenous opera created with young ones in mind, the Massey is your destination for Family Day programming that’s just a little bit different.
Tickets for all these fabulous events are on sale now
1. February 14th 7:30pm The Wizard of Oz (Film Screening)
One of the most popular family films of all time, The Wizard of Oz, is coming back to the Big Screen at Massey Theatre for one day only. Join Dorothy as she meets the scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion and experience their journey to the Emerald City and all the beloved scenes and songs along the way. Dressing up you (and your little ones) is joyfully encouraged.
And join us after the movie in the Plaskett Gallery for a post-show discussion of the movie, in particular it’s fascinating legacy within the gay community.
2. February 15th 11am – The Flight of the Hummingbird (Vancouver Opera/Pacific Opera Victoria)
“Here is the story of the great forest that caught on fire”
The Flight of the Hummingbird is based on an indigenous parable from the Quechuan people of South America. The story of the brave hummingbird travelled through pre-contact trade routes to become well known within Haida culture. This opera is influenced by the graphic novel written by Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas and will include elements of his dramatic Haida-manga illustrations. Created for young audiences, The Flight of the Hummingbird is a beautiful contemporary performance for kids and adults.
3. February 15th 4pm – Parents are a Drag (Zee Zee Theatre)
Join local drag queens Peach Cobblah & Isolde N. Barron for a drag dress-up spectacular! Add some rainbow to your Family Day at this fun and inclusive event which reminds young ones, their parents, caregivers and everyone in between that it’s never too early (or too late!) to get silly and dress-up! Parents are a Drag celebrates diversity with songs, laughter and play. With opportunities for the audience to become part of the show, be sure to come dressed to impress or ready for some dress-up time.
Massey Theatre is a safe space for LBGT2+ people and allies where we promote the notions of love, mutual consent, empathy and understanding. Homophobia, transphobia, sexism, any type of bigotry or violent conduct will not be tolerated. Don’t hesitate to approach us if anything should alert your concern.
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Queerly Canadian: A Play Reading Series
As part of the Under the Rainbow LGBTQ2+ programming at Massey Theatre, we are presenting a series of play readings of fantastic Canadian Plays. These plays have been curated by our artist in residence Allan Morgan and Roy Surette, Artistic Director for Touchstone Theatre.
All plays will be presented as staged readings, performed by professional actors. Plays contain mature content and may not be suitable for young audiences.
FREE and welcoming and accessible for all!
Hosanna by Michel Tremblay
January 20, 2020 @ 7:30 pm Plaskett Gallery
The heart-rending and often hilarious Hosanna by seminal French Canadian playwright Michel Tremblay shines light on the fear of change, identity, and the reluctance to release the illusion of self. Aging drag queen Hosanna, a man wanting to be a woman, wanting to be Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra, with her live-in partner Curiette, a going-to-seed leather stud, faces a Halloween night feeling like an outsider in her own skin.
Hosanna, was first performed in French at Théâtre de Quat’Sous in 1973 and in English at Toronto’s Tarragon in 1974 and is set in an exotic world of nightclubs and gay bars on the main of Montreal in the seventies. Written during the social and political tumult of Quebec’s Quiet Revolution, Tremblay’s political allegory about the authenticity of self resonates just as much today.
This reading of Hosanna is a features the actors from the recent UBC Theatre presentation, Frank Zotter and Joey Lespérance and is directed by Stephen Heatley. Translated by Bill Glassco and John Van Burek.
Lilies by Michel Marc Bouchard
April 8, 2020 @ 7:30 pm Plaskett Gallery
The play is set in 1952 in the church of a prison where it has been arranged that the jailed Simon Doucet will make confession to his old friend Bishop Bilodeau The play’s English translation by Linda Gaboriau was published in 1991.
This reading will feature members of the cast from the Jessie Award winning joint production of Touchstone, Arts Club and Pi Theatres, including Allan Morgan.
Swollen Tongues by Kathleen Oliver
June 8, 2020 @ 7:30 pm Plaskett Gallery
Written entirely in rhyming couplets, Swollen Tongues is a contemporary take on Restoration comedy – with a twist!
Thomas and his sister, Catherine, are both instructed in the powers of poetry by Dr. Wise. While Thomas is more prolific than skilled in his praise of his beloved Sonja, Catherine is strangely mute. The problem? Catherine is in love with Sonja too, and has taken the liberty of effectively improving her brother’s verses and giving them to Sonja under an assumed name, Overripe. When Thomas discovers that he has been plagiarized, Dr. Wise suggests a challenge of poetic skill. The ensuing flurry of disguises, tricks, and revelations includes a visit to Sapphic hideaway, closer to home than anyone might have imagined. Here, the characters discover that no one is without secrets, and that poetry can unlock the door to love in unexpected ways.
Massey Theatre is a safe space for LBGT2+ people and allies where we promote the notions of love, mutual consent, empathy and understanding. Homophobia, transphobia, sexism, any type of bigotry or violent conduct will not be tolerated. Don’t hesitate to approach us if anything should alert your concern.
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Métis Arts Fest
Join us for the Métis Arts Fest Presented by Savage Society and Massey Theatre from September 27th – October 26th, 2019
Includes music, dance, visual art, theatre, and celebration, sharing and illuminating Métis stories and culture
ALL events and activities are free and take place at the Massey Theatre in the Plaskett Gallery or on the Massey Theatre stage. All are welcome and encouraged.
FULL SCHEDULE:
September 27th @ 7pm Métis Culture Fair
The Métis Culture Fair is an exciting celebration of contemporary Métis arts and culture. Enjoy music and stories, and hear artists speak intimately about how their heritage, culture, and art intersect. Featured artists include Sandy Scofield, Andrea Menard, Charlene Wilson and host Tai Amy Grauman.
October 1st @ 7pm Métis Jigging
In this fun and exciting workshop for all ages, you will learn the basics of Metis jigging from local dancer Charlene Wilson. Get your body moving as she teaches the steps, and then enjoy a session of social dancing where you can put your new skills to the test and experience the joy of jigging.
October 3rd @ 6pm Métis Feast
The Grand Celebration of Metis Arts Fest will include a delicious feast, fabulous performances and a rousing celebration of Métis arts and Métis life. The event will include music from Sandy Scofield, Andrea Menard, and Kim Brandt, dancing by Charlene Wilson. Excellent food will be provided by Rosemary Georgeson and Barb Bennett Hospitality Services. Finally, the Métis Pairing exhibition featuring work by artists Nicci Battilana and Monique Hurteau will bring a dynamic array of colours and images to the walls of the Plaskett Gallery.
October 25th and 26th @ 1pm
Workshop Presentation: You Used to Call Me Marie Witness the creation of new theatre in progress with this workshop presentation of Tai Amy Grauman’s play You Used to Call Me Marie
Month of October
Plaskett Gallery Artist Exhibition: Métis Pairing Nicci Battilana and Monique Hurteau
Job Posting: Audio Technician
Job Description
- Audio Technicians will provide highly specialized audio work for a broad range of performing arts and special events for the Massey Theatre Society and its diverse rental clients. Massey Theatre Society operates two distinct theatres in New Westminster: Massey Theatre (est. 1949 multi-purpose production theatre of 1260 seats) and Anvil Centre Theatre (est. 2014 flexible studio theatre of 361 seats). Audio Technicians supervise and provide direction for audio set up, run and strike of Massey Theatre Society’s events and rentals.
Audio Technicians reports to the Technical Director, Head Technician, and Crew Chief (if applicable)
Qualifications
- Two (2) years of post-secondary training in audio production or equivalent live audio production experience.
- A minimum of two (2) years’ experience as an Audio Technician in a “Road House” environment preferred.
- Knowledge of multiple theatre/concert needs, Yamaha QL5, Soundcraft Performer 3, Dante & QLab.
- Must be able to demonstrate superior audio system trouble shooting skills.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as a member of a diverse team.
- Positive and respectful approach to providing exceptional client services.
- Mix Audio for events as required at either the Front of House or Monitor position.
- Ability to represent Massey Theatre Society professionally, competently and with respect to all clients and colleagues.
- Familiarity with current OH&S standards and regulations.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment up to 25 kg.
- The following Certificates or skills are advantageous:
- Current OFA Level 1 First Aid Certificate.
- Ability in the maintenance of audio systems.
- Proficiency in QLab, and Audio Recording Software.
- Fluency in a second language (in addition to English)
Additional Information
- Hours of Work:The applicants will have a flexible schedule and must be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays. Audio Technicians should anticipate occasional last minute additions to the schedule.
- Salary: Live Sound Specialist (A1) $27/hr; Audio Operator (A2) $22.50/hr
Massey Theatre Society is committed to advancing equitable and inclusive employment. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. Massey Theatre Society is committed to advancing The Truth and Reconciliation Commission calls to action and encourages people of Indigenous heritage to apply.
Deadline for applicants: October 18, 2019
For further information and to submit resumes please contact:
Shawn Sorensen, Co-Technical Director, Massey Theatre Society – shawn@masseytheatre.com
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Call for Artists: Love Out Loud – Images of Pride: Personal and Political
Massey Theatre now accepting submissions for a curated exhibition in November 2019 at the Plaskett Gallery as part of “Under the Rainbow,” a year of LGBTQ2+ focussed programs.
2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, widely viewed as the birth of the modern Pride movement. Over those decades, “Pride” has represented many things, from a political movement fighting for safety, equality, and human rights to a lifting of the shame that LGBTQ2+ people have been made to endure by their families, their communities, and even themselves. As a counterpoint to the commercialization and homogenization of the Pride movement that has been observed (and often criticized) in recent years, “Love Out Loud” will remind us that Pride is an infinite, multifaceted experience and that every LGBTQ2+ person has the right to decide what Pride means to them. In these times, it is as vital as ever that queer love does dare speak its name, and “Love Out Loud” will serve as a platform for artists to do just that.
Submit via email to julian@masseytheatre.com. Please include in your submission:
- Artist Name
- For each work: photo of work, title, framed size, and media
Submissions will be assessed on the following criteria:
- Artistic merit/interest
- Relevance to the exhibition themes (short artistic statements may be included with works to explain their connection)
- Appropriateness for the multi-user community venue that houses the gallery
We are not able to exhibit sculpture or other non-hanging works at this time
The proposed work of art must not have been showcased in New Westminster in the 12 months preceding the exhibition, nor (upon acceptance) be displayed in any other New Westminster gallery during the exhibiting year.
Deadline for submissions is September 15 2019.
For more information please contact the exhibition coordinator Julian Legere
julian@masseytheatre.com 604-517-5900
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Under the Rainbow: A year of LGBTQ2+ programming
The arts bring community together. Through shared experiences, stories and space. This season, we’re introducting ‘Under the Rainbow’, a series of community events, programs, shows and more celebrating expression, identity, and connection, with a particular focus on LGBTQ2+ stories and artists.
A featured component of this programming is the participation of our artist in residence Allan Morgan.
Massey Theatre is proud to welcome veteran Canadian actor, and more recently playwright Allan Morgan as our 2019-2020 Artist-in-Residence. As part of our Under the Rainbow series, Allan will be developing and leading a number of events and programs, including a run of his solo play “Pride: for the young gay, the un-gay, and the jaded queen in all of us,” a storytelling program for gay seniors, a play reading series, and more. Allan will also be writing a blog for the Massey website about his residency, and will be present at the Theatre throughout the year to work on new projects and get the community excited about arts and Pride.
Here’s a teaser of some of the programming coming Under the Rainbow
2019
September 20th -September 22nd
Pride-For the young gay, the un-gay and the jaded queen in all of us- writtten and performed by Allan Morgan on the Massey Theatre stage
September 28th to November 30th
Let me Tell you a Story Nobody Ever Told to Me- Gay Seniors project in the Plaskett Gallery
October 19th
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert the Movie: Drag Queen Singalong in the Massey Theatre
October 20th
The Flame NW the LGBTQ2+ edition- Plaskett Gallery
October 28th
Colette-Last Monday at the Movies with the Arts Council of New Westminster in the Massey Theatre
November 1st to 30th
Love Out Love Exhibition in the Plaskett Gallery
November 30th
Gay Seniors Project Sharing & Celebration in the Massey Theatre
2020
January 11th
Fire Song- Award winning contemporary film from indigenous film maker Adam Garnet Jones in the Massey Theatre
January 20th
Play Reading in the Massey Theatre
February 14th
The Wiard of Oz the Movie: Drag Queen Singalong in the Massey Theatre
February 15th
Rainbow Families Family Day Gathering-activities and performances in Massey Theatre and Plaskett Gallery
February 24th
Rafiki-Last Monday at the Movies with the Arts Council of New Westminster in the Massey Theatre
March 13th and 14th
New Performance showcase in the Massey Theatre
March 14th
Dance Party in the Massey Theatre
April 6th
Play Reading in the Massey Theatre
May 1st and 2nd
Hot Brown Honey in the Massey Theatre
June 8th
Play Reading in the Massey Theatre
Want to be kept up to date on Under the Rainbow and other programming? Email us and we’ll keep you in the know.
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