Return of the arts brings happiness
Summer is sweet in the Okanagan with an abundant amount of fresh fruit ripened on the tree, crisp and vibrant vegetables plucked from the earth and the sweet taste of corn steamed on the cob with nob of butter and sprinkle of† pink Himalayan salt, leading me to conclusion that we truly live in a blessed part of the world. If you have not stopped by a roadside farm stall yet, try it.
As much as my pantry and fridge is full of fresh local produce, my heart is full when I see that our arts and music programs are gaining momentum once again. After such extended periods of isolation, I must reluctantly admit that it has been hard on me. Motivation is the key that unlocks inspiration and visa versa.
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I was happy to take a survey for Creative Okanagan, which is seeking input from a wide range of residents to share their values and what the music scene means to them.
This non-profit would like our help to shape the direction and priorities to build a vibrant music community. If you would like to take this same survey, visit their website at creativeokanagan.com and follow the prompts which lead you to the survey. All opinions matter, and you have until August 31 until the survey request expires.
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Thursdays at Memphis Blues and BBQ House, 289 Bernard Ave., our very own blues man Rick ‘Poppa Dawg’ Halisheff entertains diners with live acoustic Blues, Soul, and Americana music from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Reservations are recommended by calling: 250-868-3699
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Thursday Jazz Jams at the Rotary Centre on Cawston Avenue have been postponed once again until further notice. Apologies to those who went last week only to find it shut down. I will keep you informed when the hosts feel it’s a safe time startup.
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Local artists Nancy Dearborn and Daniel Dearborn have an exhibition hanging at the Delta Grand Hotel lobby at 1310 Water St. Grab a coffee at Gio’s on the corner and stroll through the halls viewing their collection of pieces created from vivid hues of glass and paint under the exhibition name “Elements.”
Both artists, who are brother and sister-inlaw, have been on a quest to surround themselves only by beauty, and this is reflected in the pieces produced.
It’s free to browse, but if you would like to purchase a piece, contact Art Lovers Gallery and Tours at 778-215-3614 or visit the website artlovers.ca. The exhibition closes Sept. 7.
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Kelowna Actors Studio presents Broadway hits in “The Show Must Go On,” now playing at the Ellis Street theatre.
Randy Leslie, Delphine Litke and Heidi Hewitt will perform songs from The Greatest
Showman, Wicked, West Side Story, South Pacific, Les Miserables, Dear Evan Hansen, The Sound of Music, Waitress and a few rock and pop selections.
Originally the show was only for two days, buts its popularity and ticket demand has added more dates. The show dates are August Wednesday to Saturday. Most nights are sold out, but here is limited seating available for tonight’s show as well as Saturday matinee. Seating capacity has been reduced at the theatre due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit kelownatickets.com to purchase.
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Saturday at The Vibrant Vine, 3240 Pooley Rd., it’s 007 Shaken Not Stirred with The Legendary Lake Monsters. Two sets with the iconic classic Bond themed songs will be included. Tickets are $55 through the website at thevibrantvine.com. The show runs from 6:45 to 8 p.m
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Sunday afternoon, The View Winery, 2287 Ward Rd., off of Spier in East Kelowna, invites you to sit under the trees in their orchard and enjoy the acoustic jazz stylings of RG Peever from 2 to 4 p.m.
Bring a picnic or order a charcuterie board in advance by emailing info@theviewwinery.com or calling 250-860-0742
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Salmon Arm’s Roots and Blues Festival is also happening this weekend, but online.
The three-night festival of studio performance videos from artists from Canada, U.K. and America happens Friday-Sunday from 7-9 p.m.
Whatever you do, do it safely and with joy.† Have a great week.