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Koyczan’s story about bullying arrives in Vernon as an opera

New touring production of Vancouver Opera’s acclaimed production Stickboy is bringing its message about bullying to the local stage.
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Vancouver Opera in Schools touring production of Stickboy

As students get ready to don their pink shirts for the national anti-bullying campaign Feb. 24, a new touring production of Vancouver Opera’s acclaimed production, Stickboy, is bringing its message about bullying to the local stage the very next day.

The performance, at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre Thursday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m., is based on the autobiographical book in verse of the same name by former Okanagan College student and world acclaimed poet/spoken word artist Shane Koyczan.

With music composed by Neil Weisensel, libretto by Koyczan and adaptation and stage direction by Rachel Peake (who directed Caravan Farm Theatre’s 2014 winter production of The Contest of the Winds), this touring adaptation of Stickboy comes from Vancouver Opera’s inaugural fall, 2014 production, which received rave reviews.

It is said to be bravely autobiographical, beautifully poetic, visually innovative and musically memorable.

Stickboy was a milestone for Vancouver Opera and a huge achievement for Shane, composer Neil Weisensel, and the entire creative team,” said Vancouver Opera’s James Wright. “Eight thousand people saw the show and leapt to their feet to applaud the artistry. We continue to hear from audience members who were as deeply moved by the production as we were. Kudos to Shane for his accomplishments as poet and librettist, and for generously sharing his story with the world.”

The inner life of a young boy is at the heart of this moving and meaningful new opera.

Stickboy confronts the uncomfortable reality of a society struggling with its own fear and insecurity, a society that seeks conformity and uniformity at the expense of those who are different.

The touring adaptation, at 60 minutes, includes sets, costumes singers and pianist and is specifically for secondary school audiences as it is part of the Vancouver Opera in Schools (VOIS) program.

Each season, VOIS introduces the power and beauty of opera to children and their families in schools and community venues. One of the largest opera touring programs of its kind in Canada, VOIS started more than 40 years ago and maintains a tradition of professional opera performances throughout B.C.

This visually stunning adaptation of Stickboy will feature visuals designed and animated by Giant Ant, the producers of Koyczan’s monumentally popular video To This Day.

Tickets are $29 for adults, $26 for seniors and $24 for students. Call the Ticket Seller box office at 250-549-SHOW (7469) or log online to www.ticketseller.ca for tickets and more information.