A five-day celebration of playwright George Ryga
The second annual Ryga Festival, previously known as the Marginal Arts Festival Inspired by George Ryga, begins Wednesday in Summerland.
The five-day festival will include both free and ticketed events.
Ryga, who spent much of his life in Summerland, is regarded as one of Canada’s best playwrights.
The week kicks off with a free concert on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Park featuring Blue City Trio, a pop cover band which includes a percussionist who doesn’t use drum sticks. The band offers unique takes on classic songs mostly from the 1970s and 80s.
Special events on Thursday include “Outspoken,” a spoken word, slam poetry and comedy event in a cafe atmosphere. This event begins at 7 p.m.
“Rita Joe 50, a ReThink,” will offer a di- verse panel of historians, theatre people and members of the Indigenous community. This event begins at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday and is open to the public. There will also be a staged reading of “Ploughmen of the Glacier,” a play penned by Ryga in 1977. This production is at Centre Stage Theatre beginning at 2 p.m.
On Friday, Ann Mortifee will feature her “Seven is the Magic Number,” her newest work at Centre Stage Theatre beginning at 7:30 p.m.
The Campbell Ryga Quartet, featuring George Ryga's son on saxophone, returns for a second year with a concert Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at Centre Stage Theatre. Last year’s performance sold out. The three-time Juno Award winner will be joined on stage by Sergei Ryga, Scott Gamble and Cameron Ward.
On Saturday, visitors can enjoy live theatre on Summerland’s main street at 4:30 p.m. with a special theatre trail.
“Adrenaline,” a play penned and performed by Syrian Ahmad Mire will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at Centre Stage Theatre.
“Hootenanny,” a sing-a-long, will begin Sunday’s festivities at 10:30 a.m. The festival will wrap up with the Playwright's Cabaret, featuring winners from the 10Minute Play contest, at 1 p.m. at the IOOF Hall.
During the five days there are workshops available with presenters Deborah Williams, Ann Mortifee, Majdi Bou-Matar, Heather Davies, Jon Bartlett and Rika Ruebsaat.
For a precise schedule of events and ticket information visit www.rygafest.ca. Tickets for specific events are available from the Summerland Visitors Centre, Summerland Arts Centre, or Dragon’s Den on Front Street in Penticton.