The countdown to Christmas is in full swing. Don’t let these next few weeks pass by without indulging in the events that make us laugh, sing, and share in the joy of the season.
The Shriners of British Columbia and Yukon are raising funds to transport local children to Shrine hospitals for free care with two performances of their Shriners Variety Show at the Performing Arts Centre Dec. 9.
This extravaganza features magician Murray Hatfield along with comedic jugglers and ventriloquists for an evening of excitement and showmanship. Choose from either the 4 p.m. matinee or the 7 p.m. evening show. Tickets can be picked up at the Ticket Seller at 549-SHOW (7469).
On Dec. 10, Rob Dinwoodie and friends are at the Performing Arts Centre for a Cowboy Christmas. Rob was a Sunday school teacher of mine some decades ago, and I’ve always admired how his amiable and genuine personality shines through his incredible musicianship.
In Cowboy Christmas, he brings the songs, poetry and stories from the open range to the stage in an unforgettable evening that’s sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. and tickets are on sale now through the Ticket Seller.
Paul Moore along with the Kokanee Singers and Inspirati Chorale present Christmas Favourites Sunday, Dec. 11 at the All Saints Anglican Church. Join Vernon’s favourite tenor and his students as they invite you to help celebrate the sounds of the season. Showtime is 2 p.m. and tickets are available by calling the box office.
On Dec. 13, the Ken Lavigne Christmas Roadshow brings a nostalgic and enchanting musical tour through the 1940s and golden age of radio. Along with his band and special guests Alison MacDonald and Daniel James White, enjoy these traditional and modern Christmas tunes and so many favourites. The music and merriment starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are on sale through the Ticket Seller.
Caravan Farm Theatre’s winter sleigh-ride show starts Tuesday. Bundle up tight for the story of The Orphan’s Dream as you’re swept across the scenic and serene acres of Caravan Farm. Performances of this wintery tale are most nights from Dec. 13 to 31 at 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Some nights are filling up quickly so visit www.ticketseller.ca for an up-to-date list of available shows to choose from.
Andrew Allen returns to the Performing Arts Centre Dec. 17 for a special concert performance: All Hearts Come Home. His three top-10 Canadian hits including Loving You Tonight, I Want You, and I Wanna Be Your Christmas will be heard among special guest performances by a host of local artists and students. Showtime is 7 p.m. and tickets are on sale now through the Ticket Seller.
There is still a week left to see Powerhouse Theatre’s The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. See what happens when the absolute worst children in the world decide to take over the church’s annual Christmas pageant in this hilarious and heart-warming holiday hit. Evening performances start at 7:30 p.m. most nights to Dec. 10, with matinees starting at 2 p.m. today and Dec. 10. Visit the Ticket Seller website at www.ticketseller.ca or call 549-SHOW (7469) for the complete schedule.
And this afternoon at 2 p.m. there is the last performance of the ever popular Rotary Carol Festival at the Performing Arts Centre. Year after year, this is an extremely popular event and admission is by donation so plan to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Enjoy the shows!
– Brian van Wensem is the audience development coordinator at the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre.