Tis the season for tradition. You can find all sorts of tradition at events in the Valley in the next few weeks. Returning local favourites, tribute acts, and stand-up comedy, these events are all a little familiar and also offer entirely something new to experience.
This afternoon is the third performance of the Rotary Carol Festival at the Performing Arts Centre. This gem of an event continues to be a popular Okanagan holiday tradition so plan to arrive early to avoid disappointment. Today’s performance starts at 2 p.m. and includes a performance by guest musician Henry Piovesan.
You’ll want to get your warmest winter gear out of the closet for Caravan Farm Theatre’s latest winter production, Little Brother, Little Sister. In true Caravan style, you’ll be whisked on horse-drawn sleigh through the farm with scenes of this Christmas comedy unfolding along the way. Little Brother, Little Sister starts up Tuesday with performances most nights at 4, 6 and 8 p.m. through to Jan. 4. Some of the shows are already sold out so call the Ticket Seller at 549-SHOW (7469) soon to avoid disappointment.
The Legends of Rock ‘n’ Roll are in Vernon this Tuesday for a nostalgic evening of Christmas themed tributes. This concert features five tribute acts sharing one stage including Zachary Stevensen as Buddy Holly, Lance Lipinsky as Jerry Lee Lewis Darcy Jo Wood as Brenda Lee and more. This yuletide rock ‘n’ roll extravaganza starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are still available through the Ticket Seller at 549-SHOW (7469).
This Friday is Christmas Around the World at the Performing Arts Centre. This celebration of culture and traditions will take you on a journey from the mystical land of Russia to the rhythm of the Congo and beyond. Vernon vocalist Charity Van Gameren welcomes friends to the stage including Silhouette Dance Studio and Zumba dancers and more for this evening of music, dance and storytelling. Call the Ticket Seller at 549-SHOW (7469) for your tickets.
Saturday, Dec. 14 is your chance to catch “the real Mr. D” at the Performing Arts Centre. Gerry Dee is the star and creator of CBC’s hit sitcom Mr. D and this award winning comedian comes to Vernon as part of his The Real Mr. D 2013 Comedy Tour. This hilarious night of laughing about marriage, fatherhood and teaching starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased through the Ticket Seller by calling 549-SHOW (7469).
With three top-10 Canadian hits under his belt, local singer/songwriter Andrew Allen is returning to Vernon for a special concert performance: Home for the Holidays. Exceptional voice, seemingly limitless energy, comic wit and storytelling are what it’s all about at this interactive live performance. The concert is at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18 and tickets can still be picked up at the Ticket Seller by calling 549-SHOW (7469).
Melina and Paul Moore are back on stage at the Performing Arts Centre Dec. 20 and 21 with their festive Christmas with Paul and Melina Moore & Friends. The duo are joined by Judy Rose, City Dance studio, the Seaton Secondary School Honors Choir and more to carry on their tradition of music, magic and mistletoe in a show for all ages. Tickets are on sale now through the Ticket Seller at 549-SHOW (7469).
Enjoy the shows!
— Brian van Wensem is the audience development coordinator at the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre.
