Art & Culture – Girl Who Would be KING on Life, Style and INSPIRATION.

Verdi’s Rigoletto

If real life were an opera, conversations would be sung with soaring high notes for joy, brooding bass lines for frustration, and for sadness you’d collapse on a velvet chaise and lament your fate in Italian. Life would be louder, lusher, and far more fabulous. You’d live for the drama, die for the applause, and probably come back for an encore.

Last night I attended the opening night of Verdi’s Rigoletto which also happened to be the opening of the 2025-2026 Vancouver Opera season at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. And, turns out it was also World Opera Day. So, a triple crown day so to speak. Of course I love the word “crown.”

What I like about opera is that the costumes and sets are visually stunning and the voices, well…they’re like vocal acrobatics. It amazes me that anyone can hit such notes and hold it for so long…in a dramatic, powerful, and grand way. I think that’s the word I’m looking for – Grand! While I don’t love every opera, I certainly appreciate the talent and scope of work that goes into every production.

Sarah Dufresne as Gilda and Michael Chioldi as Rigoletto in Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Rigoletto. Photo by Emily Cooper

Every opera is unique but what each have in common is the classic theme of love, secrets, regret and revenge. Someone always tragically dies and usually it’s not the person you expect who dies. If it wasn’t “over-the-top” it wouldn’t be opera. Opera is like a rollercoaster in overdrive where emotions are amplified, drama condensed, in a fast-paced setting of ultimate highs and lows.

The basic storyline: Rigoletto is opera’s ultimate cautionary tale: a snarky court jester mocks everyone but hides a secret – his beloved daughter. When a womanizing duke seduces her, Rigoletto plots revenge with a hired assassin. But in true operatic fashion, the plan backfires spectacularly, and heartbreak hits a high note. Think: curses, disguises, betrayal, and one of the catchiest arias ever – “La donna è mobile.” (woman is fickle) It’s drama steeped in tragedy, with a side of soaring vocals.

Heather Molloy as Monterone’s Daughter with members of the Vancouver Opera Chorus and supernumeraries. Photo Emily Cooper

With my very knowledgeable 0pera friend Rosa.

Tickets are selling fast. To book:

https://www.vancouveropera.ca/whats-on/rigoletto/

RUNNING TIME Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, including one 25-minute intermission.

Art & Culture

Folk Music Festival

This quote sums it up: “It’s a folk singer’s job to comfort disturbed people and to disturb comfortable people.” – Woody Guthrie; legendary folk singer and activist. This is a profound quote which captures the spirit and two faces of Folk music: one that soothes those struggling with turmoil, and another that shakes those settled in complacency. Wow! I love it.

Nothing brings people together quite like the shared language of food and music. One nourishes the body and the other, the soul. It started off with a shindig on Friday night just before the music started.

The Vancouver Folk Music Festival is taking place all weekend long from Friday, July 18th to Sunday, the 20th. It’s an annual event held at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver, B.C. celebrating folk and roots music. The festival, now in it’s 48^th year, aims to foster community, connect people through music, and support emerging artists. It’s a fantastic celebration of “world class” music.

It features a diverse range of international, national, and local artists, along with activities like dancing, food and local artist vendors, and children’s areas.

Many people are confused as to what Folk Music represents.

Folk Music has evolved over the years. In the early days it relied heavily on acoustic instruments like banjos, fiddles and harmonicas with simple melodies, relatable lyrics and themes from everyday life. Artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez used folk as a tool for protest and social change. Traditional Folk Music has always been about connecting people to their cultural roots.

Now, artists from all over the world incorporate folk elements, creating a hybrid of traditions. Folk now often mixes in with pop, rock, electronica, even hip-hop. It can be more bluesy or jazzy and even have a Middle Eastern bent. However, its soul of storytelling, authenticity and human connection remains intact. Every region has it’s own folk traditions. Be it Irish, Indian, Appalachian and West African to name a few…but each region is wildly different in sound and purpose.

I thoroughly enjoy attending this event every year. The outdoor space is large and lush. There are several stages set up in various locations and always something happening throughout. You can wander around and visit the local vendors, go to the beer garden or grab a bite from a handful of local and ethnic food trucks. You can also walk out of the gate and sit on the beautiful beach for a bit. No shortage of things to do and see.

Edith Marin makes gorgeous beaded art jewelry. Each piece tells a story. “Blue Deer” huichol art.

For tickets and information please visit:

https://thefestival.bc.ca/

Donations, especially monthly contributions, help ensure the festival can continue its tradition of bringing “world-class” music to Vancouver. If you would like to donate to this well thought out, well organized and amazing festival here’s the link:

https://thefestival.bc.ca/giving/one-time-donation/

A playful reminder that music is made by people, for people is this witty quote from Louis Armstrong: “All music is folk music. I ain’t never heard a horse sing a song.”

When you hear about Folk Music, what kinds of images or feelings come to mind for you?

Art & Culture

THE MOUSETRAP

Last night I saw The Arts Club Theatre Company’s production oF THE MOUSETRAP at the Granville Island Stage, Vancouver. This classic Agatha Christie murder mystery play has captivated audiences since its West End debut in 1952. It’s the world’s longest-running play, and for good reason. It’s a master class in suspense, misdirection, and tightly wound tension. My friend and I enjoyed the dark humor and witty dialogue very much. The characters were great.

The setup is a group of quirky strangers who are stranded by a snowstorm at Monkswell Manor, a remote English guesthouse. The guests include an eccentric architect, a grumpy magistrate that reminded me of “Mrs. Doubtfire,” a retired military man, a mysterious foreigner, and a few others with secrets to hide.

Photo courtesy of The Arts Club, Vancouver.

News breaks of a murder in London, and soon a police sergeant arrives on cross-country skis, warning that the killer may be among them. When one of the guests is murdered, the tension skyrockets. Everyone becomes a suspect, and the audience is left guessing until the final twist.

The play is famous for its surprise ending, and audiences are traditionally asked not to reveal the killer’s identity after the show to help preserve the mystery for future viewers. Although my companion guessed it right, halfway through the second act.

THE MOUSETRAP began as a radio play, titled Three Blind Mice, and was written at the request of the BBC for Queen Mary. Christie then expanded Three Blind Mice from a twenty-minute radio play into a full-length stage play, adding some characters and a fuller background to create The Mousetrap. It is currently playing its 73rd year in London’s West End, where it has completed over 30,000 performances. Due to the play’s longevity and success, there has never been a film adaptation. Audiences have been asked to keep the secret locked in their hearts and preserve the tradition of THE MOUSETRAP.

I will keep my mouth shut. For tickets until August 10^th, 2025:

https://artsclub.com/shows/2024-2025/the-mousetrap

Check out the Trailer:

https://artsclub.com/shows/2024-2025/the-mousetrap

CAST Jay Clift (Giles), Zander Eke (Christopher Wren), Charlie Gallant (Detective Sergeant Trotter), Brett Harris (Standby for Giles, Christopher Wren, Major Metcalf & Detective Sergeant Trotter), Ming Hudson (Mollie), Andrew McNee (Mr. Paravicini), Melissa Oei (Miss Casewell), Carly Pokoradi (Standby for Mollie, Miss Casewell, Mrs. Boyle), Anthony Santiago (Major Metcalf & Understudy Mr. Paravicini), Beatrice Zeilinger (Mrs. Boyle)

Have you seen this play?

Art & Culture

Two Gentlemen of Verona

Last night under the tents we went again, to attend the opening of Bard on the Beach’s “The Two Gentlemen of Verona.” This is one of four plays being presented at the Vanier Park Venue.

Two Ladies of Vancouver at the **Bard Boutique** (with my friend + neighbour Marta).

This version of the play is a Shakespeare comedy of sorts, modernized with costumes, music, and a dog (of course we loved the dog best).

Jacob Leonard as Proteus & Matthew Ip Shaw as Valentine, The Two Gentlemen of Verona (2025). Directed by Dean Paul Gibson. Photo & Image Design by Emily Cooper.

There is a lot going on in this production, so for the sake of simplicity, I’ll sum it all up like this:

Two best friends, Valentine and Proteus, leave their hometown. Valentine heads to Milan and falls for Silvia, the ruler’s daughter. Proteus, originally in love with Julia, is sent to Milan too, but once he sees Silvia, he forgets all about Julia and tries to win Silvia for himself. Yikes. That’s men for you!

The Company of the Two Gentlemen of Verona – Photo by Tim Matheson.

Meanwhile…Julia disguises herself as a guy (classic Shakespeare move) and follows Proteus. There’s betrayal, heartbreak, mistaken identities, and even a very clever dog named Crab who steals scenes left and right.

Mason as Crab (the only dog role in the Shakespearean canon). Scott Bellis as Launce, Photo by Tim Matheson.

Tess Degenstein as **Julia**, Photo by Tim Matheson

In the end, all is forgiven far too quickly, love is restored, and the play wraps with everyone paired off and pals again. Oops…sorry about the spoiler alert. Believe me, if you see it, you won’t remember this ending.

Jacob Leonard as Proteus Tess Degenstein as Julia, Photo by Tim Matheson

Watch Trailer:

For tickets:

https://bardonthebeach.org/the-two-gentlemen-of-verona/

Header photo: d. king

Art & Culture

Much Ado About Nothing

Yes; there’s a lot of that these days!

I attended the opening night of Vancouver’s “Bard on the Beach” last night for “Much Ado About Nothing.” It appeared from the overall audience reaction, that this production was very well received. While I enjoyed the play and found the actors compelling, it is not one of my favourites of Shakespeare’s works.

With Marta – my lovely friend & neighbour.

Our beautiful **Kits Point Backdrop behind the stage** – before the start of the play.

Before the play started, **a few words from Artistic Director Claire Sakaki & Executive Director Christopher Gaze.**

The phrase “much ado about nothing” means a lot of fuss or commotion over something unimportant. It’s used when people get worked up or excited about a situation that turns out to be trivial or not worth the attention.

Nothing comes from the play’s title itself; a clever pun. In Elizabethan English, “nothing” was often pronounced like “noting,” which meant noticing or eavesdropping. So the title can also mean “Much Noting About Nothing,” hinting at how the entire plot revolves around overheard conversations, misunderstandings, and mistaken identities. Kinda like life itself at times.

For example, in Act 1, Scene 1, Beatrice jabs at Benedick with: “I had rather hear my dog bark at a crow than a man swear he loves me.” It’s witty, sharp, and shows how their “merry war” of words masks deeper feelings.

Jennifer Lines as Beatrice and Sheldon Elter as Benedick, Photo by Tim Matheson

Angus Yam as Claudio, Matthew Ip Shaw as Don Pedro, and David Marr as Leonato, Photo by Tim Matheson

Sometimes I wonder why people are laughing at a certain scene or something that I personally do not find funny. I turned to my friend and asked “why are they laughing?” She replied “You know, humor is a funny thing.” To which I replied “well, that’s what it’s supposed to be.” Then we both laughed.

If you’re into clever insults, romantic drama, and some old-school scheming, this play’s a classic.

So next time someone’s making a big deal out of a minor issue, you’ve got the perfect phrase to describe it.

For Tickets:

https://bardonthebeach.org/much-ado-about-nothing

June 10 to September 20 • BMO MAINSTAGE

“As merry as the day is long.” Two of Shakespeare’s most tumultuous couples – sparring singles Beatrice and Benedick, and young lovers Claudio and Hero – discover all is not as it seems in an idyllic town recovering from war. Will the truth win in this mischievous game of love? Secret love, courtship, and marriage intertwine with darker themes of warfare, deception, and mischief in Much Ado About Nothing. Romance, wit, and mistaken identities power this new staging of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy full of colourful characters, passionate poetry, and Shakespeare’s wittiest wordplay.

Jennifer Tong as Hero and Angus Yam as Claudio, Photo by Tim Matheson

Watch Trailer:

Production run dates subject to change.

Production run time: 2 hours 45 minutes, including 20 minute intermission.

Art & Culture

CASEY and DIANA

The Arts Club Theatre Company’s opening night of CASEY and DIANA was last night – May 30th, 2025. The playwright, the director and many media types were among the audience members. I attended with my friend Megan.

Lindsey Angell as Diana Damien Atkins as Thomas **Photo**: courtesy of Arts Club Theatre Company.

There was a bit of confusion as to what this play was all about. Especially if you didn’t read up about it beforehand. From the name alone you can imagine it being about a married couple or a comedic team or anything else. All I knew was that it was about the aids pandemic (yes; that’s what they’re referring to it as now) and a visit from Princess Diana to Casey House; a specialty hospital based in Toronto that cares for people living with and at risk of HIV.

The play is based on true events. In a hospice where men are certain to die of this terrible disease sooner than later, the only uplifting thing they have to hang on to is hope; that quiet but persistent belief that things can get better, even when the present feels uncertain or difficult. And right now they hope to meet a visiting princess where, if only for a few minutes, will make them feel seen and uplift their spirits. They want to hang on for that moment – only seven days away. Which feels like forever in their situation.

**Alen Dominguez** as Andre & **Nora McLellan** as Marjorie. **Photo**: Courtesy of Arts Club Theatre Company.

The actors do a magnificent job of creating a quiet desperation of uncertainty while trying to maintain some dignity.

Princess Diana’s visit to Casey House in Toronto, on October 25, 1991, was groundbreaking and deeply impactful in reducing stigma around HIV/AIDS. She spent time with all 13 residents, staff, and caregivers, staying longer than planned and making a powerful statement by physically touching patients.

Her visit provided hope and dignity to those affected by the disease, and her compassion resonated worldwide. The moment was so significant that it has been immortalized in plays like this one, which explores the lasting effect of her kindness. But it also explores what it’s like living with the disease.

Until May 25, 2025 at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (2750 Granville Street).

For TICKETS: https://artsclub.com/shows/2024-2025/casey-and-diana

Cast

Lindsey Angell Diana
Damien Atkins Thomas
Ivy Charles Vera
Alen Dominguez Andre
Nora McLellan Marjorie
Emma Slipp Pauline

For more information about CASEY HOUSE:

https://caseyhouse.ca/

Art & Culture

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

Puccini’s Madama Butterfly opened up last Thursday night to a sold-out crowd in Vancouver, at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.I went with Rosa, my regular opera date, as she’s an opera-enthusiast and knows all, or at least most, of the arias. It’s always a pleasure to attend with her and we always do a toast before the show.

This opera was my first ever opera that my late husband took me to years back. The title then was only one vowel difference; Madame (instead of Madama) Butterfly. The difference between the names is primarily the title and adaptation of the story. Madame Butterfly refers to the original short story by John Luther Long, which inspired Puccini’s opera, but Madama Butterfly is the correct Italian title.

Okay; I’m glad we got that straight!

Karen Chia-ling Ho as Cio-Cio-San in Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.

Another gut-wrenching story; Madama Butterfly is widely considered one of the greatest works in operatic history. Puccini’s deeply emotional story and music is moving and steers us through all the operatic elements of love, heartbreak, hope, and tragedy.

The opera tells the tragic story of Cio-Cio-San, a young Japanese geisha, who falls in love with Lieutenant Pinkerton, an American naval officer stationed in Nagasaki. They marry, but for Pinkerton, it’s only a marriage of convenience, a touristic fantasy abroad before he finds himself a “real” (American) bride. Cio-Cio-San remains devoted to him, only to be abandoned, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion. You might want to bring kleenex.

Karen Chia-ling Ho as Cio-Cio-San and Adam Luther as Pinkerton in Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.

Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.

The themes of love, betrayal, and cultural clashes have made Madama Butterfly one of the most frequently performed operas worldwide.

The cast was unbelievably talented. The live VSO orchestra is also a treat to behold and we’re lucky to have them.

On until May 4^th, 2025. Get your Tickets here:

https://www.vancouveropera.ca/whats-on/Butterfly/

RUNNING TIME Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one 25-minute intermission.

Art & Culture

ART Vancouver 2025

Last Thursday night I attended the eclectic opening night of ART VANCOUVER with my friend Rosa – a contemporary art fair now approaching its 9^th edition. It’s happening all weekend long at the Vancouver Convention Centre – link below.

Since Art, for the most part, is open for individual interpretation, I guess you can say that there’s something to appeal to everyone’s taste here – or almost everyone.

Eagle by **Stefan Rogenmoser** – http://www.simplyartist.com

Sculpture by **Jai Sallay-Carrington** http://www.jscreatures.com

There was a lot to take in while walking around the large space. I especially enjoyed the unique and interesting sculptures represented. I respect the artistry, even though most were not something I would be interested in purchasing for myself. You’ve got to admire the workmanship that goes into these astounding pieces. Plus, there’s always a story behind them.

One of my favourite exhibits turned out to be the Bryan Adams & Ape Art from “Save the Chimps Sanctuary” – a 150 acre sanctuary in Florida which offers life-long care for hundreds of chimpanzees rescued from labs, the pet trade, and the entertainment industry. I thought it was both brilliant and philanthropic. Plus, they’re pretty good artists ~~and better than some others I’ve seen~~.

ART VANCOUVER stands as a testament to the beauty and wonder of contemporary art. Beyond thought-provoking exhibitions and stimulating conversations, the fair fosters an inclusive environment where cultural exchange thrives, strengthening Vancouver’s place as a global hub for contemporary art.

Art photos/video: d. king

See any that grab you?

The Convention Centre is located at Canada Place. Some pics from the outside:

We live in a beautiful city.

Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram: @artvancouver, Facebook: @artvancouverofficial, and X: @Art_Vancouver

Art & Culture

Arts Club: Burning Mom

I saw this excellent one-woman show last night about taking risks and enjoying the small moments in life and the ride along the way. It’s about the journey in general and our strong striving for some form of connection.

It resonated with me in the sense that it made me think about the difference between attachment and connection. The main character’s name is Dorothy (played by Susinn McFarlen). Dorothy’s story is based on the playwright’s mother’s life. After losing her husband, she decides to take their RV on the road trip of his retirement dreams: she’s going to Burning Man. After all, it’s only a 21-hour drive to a weeklong culture festival and party with no plumbing in the middle of a desert—how hard can it be? Burning Mom is a stirring odyssey of self-discovery and tale of how art, everlasting roads, and human connection propel her along the way. McFarlen did a wonderful job of entertaining us with stories for over two hours, with one set/costume change after a short intermission.

With Lisa (my sister) celebrating her birthday at **SANDBAR** before the show. FYI – ***Sandbar offers 15% off the bill if you’re going to the Arts Club.*** *THAT* was a nice surprise! Tisha (our amazing server) took this photo.

My question is – is everyone always trying to find themselves? Are we trying to carve a path that will make us feel whole or make sense out of living? At times, I believe so.

I, myself, have never had a burning (pun intended) desire to go to this festival. It’s not that I’m not curious about Burning Man, and probably once there I’d enjoy it for what it is…but it’s not on my bucket list. Luckily, I’ve crossed a lot of stuff off my personal bucket list. And it’s not a great idea to live someone else’s dream. Although I did live my late mother’s dream trip of going on safari. With my sister no less. What a bittersweet experience that was.

Getting back to the play; the only connection I have to this play is that my late husband had a Eurovan Camper that he loved and that we used a lot. I didn’t love it as much but I ended up enjoying his enjoyment of it. There were many special places we ended up discovering with that little camper. However, after he passed, I tried to keep it and learn how to drive stick shift which didn’t work out so well in the end. I had some similar parking experiences as the performer in this play. Some funny; some not. I ended up selling it. So in essence I was hanging on to it because of his (not my) love of camping. Hanging on to someone else’s love of something is a form of attachment.

Anyway, I was recently discussing the difference between attachment and connection with a friend. The difference lies in their nature and depth. Although I must say that I feel both an attachment and a connection to my dogs.

Attachment often stems from a need or dependency. It can involve clinging to someone or something for comfort, security, or emotional support. While attachment can feel strong, it may be rooted in fear—fear of loss, change, or being alone. It can sometimes create unhealthy dynamics if it becomes possessive or overly dependent.

Connection, on the other hand, is more about mutual understanding, resonance, and genuine presence. It doesn’t rely on need or fear but instead arises from shared experiences, values, and emotional attunement. A connection feels freeing, nurturing, and balanced—it’s about being with someone, not needing to hold on tightly.

Interesting, no? How many things are you attached to and how many are you connected to?

MORE SHOWS ADDED—NOW PLAYING TO APRIL 24

Granville Island Stage

https://artsclub.com/shows/2024-2025/burning-mom

Cast: Susinn McFarlen – Dorothy

Creative

Mieko Ouchi Director
Patrick Rizzotti Set Designer
Kirsten McGhie Costume Designer
John Webber Lighting Designer
Kim Clegg Projection Designer
Ashley Au Sound Designer
Ana Camacho Assistant Set Designer9.
Rebecca Mulvihill Stage Manager 9.
Harlow Nguyen Apprentice Stage Manager

Art & Culture

ART VANCOUVER

ART LOVERS UNITE

Art Vancouver, Western Canada’s premier contemporary art fair, is returning for its 9th edition from April 24 -27, 2025, at the iconic Canada Place sails (Vancouver Convention Centre East – Hall B). After a successful 8th edition, the 2025 event is set to bring together art lovers, collectors, curators, and creators from around the world to celebrate contemporary art.

Offering a curated selection of art from the West Coast and around the globe, Art Vancouver 2025 will continue its tradition of featuring a diverse selection of art, showcasing the talents of local and international exhibitors. The fair offers attendees the unique opportunity to experience innovative works that capture the spirit of the West Coast and International art.

More than an art exhibition, Art Vancouver brings people together. The event provides a space for attendees to discover fresh ideas, engage with gallery owners and artists, and experience the latest trends in contemporary art. With each year gaining more attention and participation, the 2025 edition is set to feature expanded programming, ensuring something exciting for everyone, from art professionals to art lovers.

Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time – Thomas Merton

Dates: April 24 – 27, 2025

Visitor Information: http://www.artvancouver.net/visitors-information

Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram: @artvancouver, Facebook: @artvancouverofficial, and X: @Art_Vancouver