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Announcing our 2023/2024 Season!

A high energy klezmer music celebration, international guitar virtuosos, a balletic retelling of a Canadian classic tale, a theatrical presentation of Vimy Ridge, a live cinematic production from an electronic music sensation and…DOG MAN! This is the Massey Theatre 2023/2024 season. Starting in October 2023, audiences are invited to join the adventure in the performing arts that is expressed this season on the Massey stage.

This Massey Theatre season is bold and welcoming, with a selection of artists that gives audiences the opportunity to explore the world of the performing arts and all that it has to offer. From spirited and emotional klezmer music played with a twist from Oktopus, to the live theatrical production of one of the most popular kids book series ever in Dog Man: The Musical, to the world premiere of Over the Ridge, an exploration through the hearts and minds of young Canadian soldiers in the trenches told through spoken word, new and traditional folk songs and dance. All these and more offer audiences the chance to make epic journeys of the imagination and the heart.

“These performances are truly magical as they meld forms and take the audience on a journey. Each of these artists are extraordinary and they connect deeply with the audience,” said Jessica Schneider, Executive Director, Massey Theatre Society.” We’re incredibly proud to be able to present these shows and give the audience an opportunity to travel the world of artistic expression on display”

New this year, audiences are being given the chance to save on tickets if they see more shows. Audience members can choose at least three of the six Massey Presents productions and save 15% on tickets. Any ticket bundle patron is entitled to a “friend of a friend” discount of 15% on additional tickets for up to three tickets per show. This friend of a friend offer only applies to shows that are within the bundle. This offer can only be redeemed through the TicketsNW Box Office by phone at 604.521.5050 or in person.

The Massey Theatre 2023/2024 mainstage performances:

October 21, 2023 at 7:30pm

Oktopus

The season kicks off with multiple award-winning klezmer band, Oktopus. Oktopus is a major presence on the Canadian world music scene. As a band devoted to klezmer music they have a unique sound that incorporates various components of classical and Québécois music, with some jazz and Balkan accents thrown in. The eight virtuoso musicians offer joyous, high-energy performances, at once melancholic and profound, sprinkled with humour and spiced with narrative.
Tix $50 & $45 plus service charge.

October 28 & 29, 2023 (1pm & 4pm both days)

TheaterUSA’s production of Dog Man: The Musical

Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious production based on the worldwide bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and CatKid Comic Club. Dog Man is beloved by many and has more than 50 million copies in print to date in multiple languages. This musical is adapted from the book A Tale of Two Kitties. The stage production brings the lovable hero to life as he fights crime and tries to save the city. This New York City based tour is just starting its Canadian leg and Massey Theatre will be the only theatre in the Lower Mainland to present the show. Let’s get ready to Roomba!

Tix $35 & $28 plus service charges

November 25, 2023 at 7:30pm and November 26, 2023 at 2pm

Kid Koala The Storyville Mosquito (A Theatrical Cinema Experience)

The Storyville Mosquito (A Theatrical Cinema Experience) is Kid Koala’s latest live production. Performed, filmed, projected and scored on stage at each performance, each show is an entirely unique experience. In the story, a young mosquito leaves his small town in the country to seek fame and fortune in the big city and fulfill his dream of playing in one of the greatest bands of all time at Sid Villa’s Music Hall. The audience watches as a team of performers brings this story to life simultaneously on stage and screen incorporating miniature sets, live puppetry, cinematography, and live music by Kid Koala and a string trio. A funny, jazz-infused emotive, Chaplin-esque live theatre experience that’s sophisticated, yet fun for the entire family.

Tix $50 & $45 plus service charges

January 25, 2024 at 7:00pm

International Guitar Night 24

International Guitar Night is the world’s premier touring guitar festival, each show bringing together the most interesting and innovative acoustic guitarists from around the world to exchange musical ideas and wow the audience. This 24th year is no exception featuring three IGN favorites and an exciting newcomer. Luca Stricagnoli (Italy), Thu Le(Vietnam), Marco Pereira (Brazil), Minnie Marks (Australia), making her North American debut with IGN 24.

Tix $50 & 45 plus service charges

February 10, 2024 at 4:00pm

Ballet Jörgen: Anne of Green Gables the Ballet®
Anne of Green Gables –The Ballet® is a spirited and youthful production that will transport audiences to the bygone world of Avonlea. Based on the Canadian novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anneof Green Gables – The Ballet® follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an orphan girl sent to live on a farm in the fictional town of Avonlea, Prince Edward Island. For ballet lovers and Anne-o-philes alike.

Tix $50 & $35 plus service charges

April 13, 2024 (4:00 pm and 8:00 pm)

Over the Ridge
by Brendan McLeod, The Fugitives with choreography by Jacob Williams

Over the Ridge is the next development of folk/roots band The Fugitives concert, Ridge, which through storytelling, spoken word, live music and dance explores the misconceptions and offers reflections on the Battle of Vimy Ridge. The story is told via letters received by the families of the young soldiers who fought and died in the battle. Over the Ridge further develops this story with the addition of contemporary Ballet, choregraphed by Jacob Williams, and performed by a company of professional dancers. The interdisciplinary production stirs the heart and remembers what happened to those young men who gave their lives.

Tix $50 & $45 plus service charges

These shows and more on sale now!

Massey Theatre Announces 2022/23 Mainstage Season

A legendary storyteller and musician, charismatic singer and pianist, global guitar innovators, fairy tale ballet and…giant dinosaurs.  All this can be found in the 2022/2023 season presented by Massey Theatre.  Starting in November 2022, audiences are invited to connect and celebrate the magic of the performing arts on the historic Massey Theatre stage.

The Massey Theatre season reflects its desire to reignite community connections with a variety of exceptional, larger than life performances.  The season brings together a selection of National and International artists from Tom Jackson to Ballet Jörgen’s Cinderella, Michael Kaeshammer to A Dinosaur Tale and perennial favourite International Guitar Night. The 2022/2023 season has something for everyone.

“Bringing generations together is the opportunity we wanted to offer this year. That’s why we chose artists who can excite and inspire all ages and offer a range of aesthetic experiences. Plus…dinosaurs!”, said Jessica Schneider, Executive Director, Massey Theatre Society.

This season provides opportunities for audiences to gather for the mutual enjoyment of great theatrical experiences.  The energy at these shows will bring families and friends together again in spirit and wonder.

The Massey Theatre 2022/2023 mainstage performances:

November 25, 2022

Tom Jackson
Stories, Songs and Santa Causes
Tom Jackson kickstarts the holiday season with grace, style, and quirky festivity that audiences have enjoyed for decades. The iconic Indigenous storyteller, actor, singer and activist has travelled coast to coast to coast with the Huron Carole, raising funds and awareness for local food banks and family service agencies, and this year, Massey Theatre audiences will get to enjoy Stories, Songs and Santa Causes.

As a Companion of the Order of Canada, Juno and Gemini Humanitarian Award winner, eleven-time honorary degree recipient, and a proud bearer of the 2014 Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement, Tom is noted for his ability to mobilize others into action – often leading with a hug.  Stories, Songs and Santa Causes also features award-winning musician and producer, Tom McKillip. Tom and Tom will bring some much-welcome levity and humanity with a date-night, or family-evening, vibe!

December 3, 2022

Michael Kaeshammer
Coast-to-Coast Tour

Internationally-acclaimed pianist, singer, and songwriter Michael Kaeshammer is set to embark on an extensive coast-to-coast Canadian tour to close out 2022.

Kaeshammer promises an uplifting evening of music and storytelling. While the show will include selections from his beloved back catalogue, fans new and old will also be treated to a preview of his upcoming release, Turn It Up. Expected in early 2023, the collection finds Kaeshammer building on his signature blend of classical, jazz, blues, and boogie-woogie with effortless pop hooks for a compelling crossover style that’s immediately engaging.

January 28, 2023

International Guitar Night 2023
International Guitar Night is the world’s premier touring guitar festival, each show bringing together the most interesting and innovative acoustic guitarists to exchange musical ideas in a public concert setting. The 23^rd year features Canadian jazz guitarist, vocalist, and recipient of the 2021 Juno for Jazz Album of The Year Jocelyn Gould.  She will be joined by Flamenco master Jesus Guerrero from Spain; soloist and chamber musician Stephanie Jones, and Israeli Canadian nylon string guitarist Itmar Erez.

Feb 18, 2023

Ballet Jörgen’s Cinderella
This ballet by Bengt Jörgen is an innovative take on the classic fairy tale. Jörgen’s choreography balances the fairy tale elements of Cinderella with a contemporary treatment of the story. Returning to the original Russian tradition of having women perform the roles of the stepsisters, Jörgen builds a more realistic and human look at Cinderella and her circumstances. Ballet Jörgen’s Cinderella is a classical ballet with modern, dramatic sensibilities.

March 18 & 19, 2023

A Dinosaur Tale
A LIVE action fantasy adventure for the whole family.

A mysterious time-warping wormhole has brought the dinosaurs back into our world and it’s up to Lisa and Declan, a pair of intrepid eighth graders, to send the creatures home before the school field trip is over. In the tradition of such family favourites as E.T., The Avengers and Jurassic World comes A Dinosaur Tale, a live action fantasy adventure with puppets for the whole family.

About Massey Theatre
The Massey Theatre opened in 1949 as British Columbia’s largest theatre, at the time, with 1,260 seats. Since then, its lights have shone on thousands of performances and has become a cherished space to experience the arts. The Massey hosts large scale musicals, international music and dance performances, symphonies, choirs, ballets and more. With a commitment to the cultural life of the community, it supports programs for emerging artists and community groups as well as new creation and production residencies.  The theatre is a key gathering place with over 100,000 visitors and hosting over 200 events/performances each year. The Massey Theatre Society is a catalyst for a vibrant, expressive community and a stage where any dream is possible.

Eighth & Eight Creative Spaces Announces Emerging Artists Selected for Collaborative Residency Project

Eighth & Eight Creative Spaces has announced the four emerging artistic groups chosen for their Performing Arts Collaborative Creation Residency Project. 

In early 2022, a callout was made for proposals from emerging performing artists or small ensembles to leverage their existing short works to create a one-hour performance in a double bill or collaboration with an artist working in a different art form, technique, or tradition. Artists were asked to challenge themselves to create something they might not otherwise be able do without the resources available, such as expanding an already existing work with additional design elements, or a new cross-disciplinary or cross-cultural work. 

“Each of these artists will engage distinct community members with the themes and forms they are exploring,” explains Jessica Schneider, Executive Director of Massey Theatre Society and Eighth & Eight Creative Spaces. “The mainstream and traditional favourite shows we enjoy are all the result of supporting the artist’s vision and giving them a chance to share early drafts with audiences so the work could evolve. Eighth & Eight is a space where this can happen and it’s an exciting time to witness new ideas develop.” 

After careful consideration, the following artistic concepts have been selected:  

Woman of the Cape: A play based on interviews and historical research on female ancestors who wore and continue to wear the Portuguese form of the burqa, writer/performer, and New Westminster resident, Elaine Ávila will be working with renown director/dramaturge Kathleen Weiss. 

Live Wires: An hour-long performance and interdisciplinary exploration of connection that examines the wonderful webs woven between us, with nature, and within ourselves, featuring contemporary choreography and movement by Rachel Helten, live original music from Devon More and projection media from digital artist, Ezequiel Peralta.  

Art Cube: A performance art installation involving film, photography, video feedback, music and dance, by filmmaker and digital media artist Yunuen Perez Vertti, photographer Grant Withers, and dancer Silene Razo. 

Bending: This work co-composes original music with tap dance and double bass both individually and as a collective featuring double bassist Noah Gotfrit and dancer Alexandra Clancy. In it, they investigate the visual aspects of how our bodies exist and move in space, as well as amplify and reflect our sounds.  

“It has been such a pleasure to see the early development of each of these projects.” explains Fleur Sweetman, Performing Arts Programming Director, “Each group is exploring such unique and interesting ways to collaborate. It is so amazing to have a space like Eighth & Eight to support these emerging artists. We are so excited to share these projects with the community.” 

Over the next few months, these artistic groups will be provided with free studio space at Eighth & Eight to develop and rehearse. They’ll be provided access to digital and theatrical equipment as well as tech support and basic training on the equipment. Furthermore, each artistic group will receive mentorship from one or more of Eighth & Eight’s Artistic Associates, including dance artist and educator Justine A. Chambers, comedian Ryan Leslie Fisher, New West-based multimedia artist Ronnie Dean Harris, New West-based musician Cassius Khan, and stage actor Allan Morgan. Eighth & Eight, operated by Massey Theatre Society, is proud to engage established artists who are responsible for reflecting and advocating distinct yet intersectional programming and engagement lenses in service of relationships with seniors, LGBTQ2IA+ people, black community members, Indigenous people, and the immigrant diaspora residing in our community.  

In addition to publicly accessible artistic talks or rehearsals,  Eighth & Eight will also host public performances to celebrate select collaborative artistic groups from the project. More information will be available on Eighth & Eight’s and Massey Theatre’s website and social media platforms. 

Call for Members of the Board: Massey Theatre Society

Vision   THE MASSEY THEATRE SOCIETY is a catalyst for a vibrant, expressive community and a stage where any dream is possible.

Mission   We are committed to nurturing and supporting the performing arts with respect & integrity.

Established in 1983 as a venue based arts organization, the Society now operates two theatres and a 35,000 square foot arts complex formerly components of New Westminster Secondary School. The historic Massey Theatre (est. 1949) is a 1,260 seat proscenium theatre within the complex at the corner of Eighth and Eighth in uptown New Westminster. The MTS also programs and operates the Anvil Centre Theatre (est. 2014) on behalf of the City of New Westminster. Anvil Centre Theatre is a 360 seat, flexible, contemporary theatre within the multi-functional Anvil Centre on Columbia Street in downtown New Westminster.

The past five years have brought significant growth in venue activities, organizational capacity and program development. The organization is a significant generator of artistic and community programs. It holds a long term lease of the Massey Theatre and Complex and a programming and operating service agreement at the Anvil Centre Theatre.  MTS is poised to grow and increase its impact.

WHAT WE NEED
We are looking for skilled and committed individuals to join our volunteer Board of Directors. Specifically we are interested in individuals with one or more of the following characteristics:

• A PASSION FOR THE ARTS
• AN UNDERSTANDING AND INTEREST IN THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT SECTOR AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
• EXPERIENCE WITH CAPITAL FUNDRAISING OR WITH A MAJOR CAPITAL PROJECT
• AN INTEREST AND UNDERSTANDING IN STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OR FINANCIAL PLANNING
• AN UNDERSTANDING OF AND COMMITMENT TO EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

THE MASSEY THEATRE SOCIETY contributes to artistic and cultural activity in a number of dynamic ways –by presenting professional theatre, dance, music, visual arts and multidisciplinary performances, and also by serving the community through a variety of cultural development and participation-based arts and culture and social programs. A number of ancillary spaces and services are available to expand and enhance the programming available and increase participation.

The Massey Theatre Society programming and facility operations are carried out by a diversified team of respected arts professionals with the volunteer Board taking a Governance role to support the long term preservation and stewardship of the artistic facilities and relevance of programs in support of artists, the arts and its community service mandate. The next two years will see advancement in a long awaited capital renewal and expansion into the Massey Theatre and complex.

We endeavor to develop a diverse Board reflective of the full spectrum of heritages, ages, abilities and gender identities present in the community.  If you are interested please contact Jessica Schneider at jessica@masseytheatre.com with a resume and cover letter. Applications are due by September 24, 2021.

Immigrant Lessons Artist Residency at Massey Theatre

We are thrilled to introduce a new dance company in residence with Immigrant Lessons led by Artistic Director Kevin Fraser. This residency is part of a larger, multidisciplinary program called We Are Multitudes which has been developed by the Massey through the work of Artistic Associates Justine Chambers and Khari Wendell McLelland.

Kevin Fraser is a prominent and revolutionary figure in the Vancouver dance, fashion, film, and theatre communities. He is a multi-faceted performer and creator whose work has been seen all around the world in festivals and showcases.  In addition to Immigrant Lessons, Kevin is a cofounder of the Vogue collective The Coven (with Ralph Escamillan and Ross Wirtanen). He is an established dancer in the styles of Vogue, Waacking, House dance, Contemporary, and Jazz, to name a few.

Immigrant Lessons has been working in the Massey Theatre since January developing new productions which will be performed later this year. The Massey provides fees, funding to artistic mentors and advisors, technical and equipment support, access to the stage and support for a series of community activities which will kick off this month. Three artists have been selected, including Fraser. The details of the other artists will be released in the weeks to come.

As part of their residency, Immigrant Lessons is sharing FREE workshop opportunities prioritizing BIPOC and marginalized youth under 21 beginning on March 15^th.

These workshops include:

Grooving Foundations with Sophia Gamboa (Hip Hop) starting March 15th

Salu/Salo with Sophia Gamboa (Gathering) starting March 24th

Breaking Lessons and Sessions with Josh Cameron starting April 6th

Philosophy and Dance with Sevrin Emnacen-Boyd starting April 15th

More information on the workshops can be found on our website.

REGISTER HERE

About Immigrant Lessons
Established in 2016, Immigrant Lessons is a Vancouver- based, international multidisciplinary art collective/platform utilizing: dance, theatre, music, fashion, visual media, and visual design. This collective creates, plays, and currently is based on the on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. As underground artists and street dancers, they like to express deep love and gratitude for the innovations of black people and black culture. The collective is directed/founded by Queer Black multidisciplinary artist, Kevin Fraser. It’s current interpreters/company members are Sharon Lee, Sophia Gamboa, Josh Cameron, Sevrin Emnacen-Boyd, Tegvaran Singh, Simran Sachar, and Hayden Pereira. With a shared love of movement and art, Immigrant Lessons incorporates their extensive street dance background, experimental practice, contemporary ideology, multidisciplinary skill set, and the investigation of societal norms and intersections to give voice and visibility to marginalized and oppressed communities/individuals.

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.

Job Posting: Audience Services Coordinator

Job Overview

The Massey Theatre Society Audience Services Coordinator is responsible for the effective operation of the theatre during performances, events and other programming, and for creating a welcoming and positive experience for patrons and facility users.  Key functions are training, managing supplies and inventory, point of sales controls and oversight, advance gathering and dissemination of information and reporting / follow up.

Working with the leadership team, the Audience Services Coordinator provides team leadership and fosters a positive work environment for all employees and departmental volunteers and ensures employees’ duties are carried out efficiently with proper training and performance management provided.

The Audience Services Coordinator is responsible for scheduling and supervising Shift Supervisors in Front of House, Box Office and Food and Beverage Services as well as contract Security Services when required. They are also responsible for intake, training and scheduling of front of house volunteers required to operate the facilities.

Effective communication with various staff and volunteers throughout the organization concerning all activities in the facilities is crucial. Congenial and effective communications with all facilities users is also crucial. The Audience Services Coordinator, together with other leaders and under the direction of the Executive Director, models the values and standards for all staff and volunteers in punctuality, customer service, communications, inclusive and welcoming behaviours and attention to the condition of the facilities. The Audience Services Coordinator is expected to, at all times, deliver of duty of loyalty and positive representation of Massey Theatre Society.

The Audience Services Coordinator has oversight of Food and Beverage and Ticketing Services, including overseeing controls and inventory counts, stocking orders/deliveries, and ongoing adjustment of available products making efforts to research appealing, high quality items to sell and striving to advance environmental sustainability practices in the service area. The Audience Services Coordinator reports to the Executive Director and works closely with the Administration, Marketing, Programming and Technical Departments in this small but highly professional team of leaders.

Qualifications

Required

• Friendly, outgoing personality
• Excellent communication skills
• Customer service experience
• Staff management experience
• Knowledge of theatre operations
• Sales reconciliation experience
• Reliable, conscientious, strong work ethic
• Well-organized
• Ability to work and make effective decisions under pressure
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, ticketing software, with an aptitude for digital skills and a willingness to learn additional software as necessary

Certificates / Experience Considered Beneficial

• Service it Right Certificate
• Food Safe
• Current OFA Level 1 First Aid Certificate
• Fluency in a second language (in addition to English)

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.

Additional Information

• Hours of Work:The candidate will work a flexible schedule and must be available to work weekdays, evenings and weekends. The Audience Services Coordinator will generally work an afternoon / evening shift in order to intersect with both the leadership team and the event / performance team they are responsible for. They should anticipate occasional last minute changes to schedule.
• Location: The candidate will be required to work at two locations in New Westminster, BC (unceded traditional territory of the Qayqayt First Nation) – Massey Theatre (1260 seats) and Anvil Centre (360 seats)
• Salary/$40,950 per annum ($21 / hour), health benefits and a matching RRSP contribution program
• The successful candidate is expected to start in mid-September, 2019

If you enjoy a wide range of performing arts and events and working with a diverse public, we would be pleased to receive your resume and cover letter in application for this position.

Deadline for applicants: September 3, 2019

For further information and to submit resumes please contact:

Jessica Schneider, Executive Director,  Massey Theatre Society – jessica@masseytheatre.com

Skookum Indigenous Arts Program

Savage Society and the Massey Theatre Society have joined their artistic forces and are launching the inaugural Indigenous multi disciplinary arts series: The Skookum Indigenous Arts Program. This program is made possible by a three-year grant from the Vancouver Foundation.

This program consists of original plays, dance, film and mixed arts utilizing the theatrical resources of a colonial institution in helping make Indigenous talent visible, raising awareness of the talent and fostering cultural exchange and dialogue.  It is truly reconciliation in action.

The first schedule of events is taking place in the month of January in New Westminster at the Massey Theatre, the Plaskett Gallery (in the Massey Theatre) and the Anvil Centre.

January schedule of events

Jan 13             Public Reading of White Noise by Taran Kootenhayoo – 7pm, Plaskett Gallery FREE

White Noise is a comedy on racial commentary – an effort to dissect the micro and macro nuance of racism that exists within Canada, particularly between indigenous and non-indigenous folks.  The hope is to explore the layered racism through comedy that exists within ourselves and to witness it in others.

Jan 15             Public Reading of Thanks for Giving by Kevin Loring – 7pm, Plaskett Gallery FREE

The New Canadian play with lots to chew on!  While Nan bastes the turkey and prepares the stuffing, her husband hides a freshly hunted bear in the garage and her troublesome daughter is raiding her purse again. To top it all off, her grandchildren have chosen this Thanksgiving to disclose some unexpected personal truths to the family. In this intimate and restorative new play, the table is set and the main course is legacy, but the dessert is pumpkin pie.

Jan 18             Gathering: Skookum Arts Programming Launch at Massey Theatre     FREE

Family Pow Wow Dance Class – 3:30pm Massey Theatre Lobby            

Catered Public Reception by BigHeart Bannock Catering  Plaskett Gallery         

Artlatch – 5pm, Massey Theatre

Artlatch will transform Massey Theatre into a gathering/witnessing space for the work of reawakening + sharing artistic and culture gifts. You are asked to witness.

The potlatch is often remembered for its grand giveaways and redistribution of wealth by a chief or respected leader in the community. Canoes would travel from many distances around to witness the work the host of the ‘sɫənəq’(pronounced sl-t-en-ek)or gathering had in mind. In the same essence, we look to use art as a gift and reason to gather and take space in our own ‘Artlatch’. A space to gather, to share, to bundle and to give with arts, performance, music, history, stories, dance, drumming and all other creative gifts.

Jan 24 & 25    The Pipeline Project – 1pm daily & 7:30pm Jan 25 at Anvil Centre Theatre Produced by ITSAZOO Productions and Savage Productions Society

The Pipeline Project brings three people together – two Indigenous and one white – to confront prejudices, while wrestling with their own fossil fuel dependency, and cultural heritage. It is a provocative yet comedic take on the political conflicts surrounding Canada’s oil industry.

Jan 26             Story Catching Gathering – 3:30pm – 7:30pm, Plaskett Gallery FREE

Jan 29             Rumble The Indians who Rocked the World at 7:30pm, Massey Theatre

Last Monday at the Movies Arts Council New Westminster & Massey Theatre film series

The Indians Who Rocked the World film is outstanding. This is a feature documentary about the role of Native Americans in popular music history. The Indians who rocked the world tells the story of a profound, essential, and, missing chapter in the history of American music: The Indigenous Influence.

Featuring music icons Charley Patton, Mildred Bailey, Link Wray, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Jimi Hendrix, Jesse Ed Davis, Robbie Robertson, Redbone, Randy Castillo, and Tabu. Rumble shows these talented First Nations musicians in they helped shape the soundtracks of our lives

Ongoing to Jan. 30  

Mixed Reviews – The Art of Carrielynn Victor & Bracken Hanuse Corlett                               Plaskett Gallery FREE

All events are FREE except The Pipeline Project and The Indians Who Rocked the World. Tickets can be purchased at on ticketsnw.ca.

Venues:   Massey Theatre & Plaskett Gallery, 735 Eighth Ave, New Westminster

                 Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia St. New Westminster