FEBRUARY 2026 NEWSLETTER — What’s on in February

February’s ArtSpring Presents lineup is defined by fusion—from a powerful ballet that bridges Coast Salish legend with iconic cantata rhythms to a global soundscape of folk traditions, this month’s programming is designed to surprise. Anchored by an extraordinary week of music and mentorship from Measha Brueggergosman-Lee, our February offerings invite audiences to step away from the expected for a series of performances that promise to awaken and thrill.

We jeté into the month on February 3rd with a sold-out double-bill from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet! T’əl: The Wild Man of the Woods brings to life a Coast Salish legend about a sister’s brave journey to reclaim what was stolen by a shadowy forest figure. The raw, athletic energy of Carmina Burana completes the program, set to Carl Orff’s legendary cantata. Performed by an intimate ensemble of twelve dancers, this pairing promises a night of profound, high-stakes artistry.

Then, on February 8th, Tamar Ilana & Ventanas bring a world of musical tradition to our stage. Tamar Ilana’s vocal and dance artistry was forged on the road; she spent her childhood traveling and performing with her ethnomusicologist mother on field work expeditions. Today, she leads a six-piece ensemble through a cosmopolitan repertoire that spans Sephardic, Balkan, and Mediterranean folk traditions, and beyond. Performing in over 20 languages, Ventanas weaves a tapestry of sound that reflects the vibrant diversity of their hometown, Toronto, and transcends the boundaries of geography, time, and genre.

Finally, from February 16th to 20th, powerhouse soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee takes over for our second immersive experience of the season. This residency is a rare opportunity to engage with a world-class talent whose career defies categorization and whose stage presence is nothing short of transformative.

Measha’s residency kicks off with an open dress rehearsal for Zombie Blizzard on February 16th, with the main concert taking place on February 17th. Searing with feminist fire, Zombie Blizzard is a daring seven-movement song cycle based on the poetry of Margaret Atwood. Measha pairs up with Salt Spring’s own Foothills Brass Quintet for this special performance, bridging international brilliance with local artistry to confront grief, gender, and the human condition.

Then, on February 20th, Measha delivers a life-affirming gospel concert. While world-renowned for her classical mastery, she is equally at home with the raw, emotional depth of spirituals. This performance offers a warm, soulful antidote to the February chill—an evening designed to uplift, connect, and enlighten.

Finally, on February 22nd, Measha leads an exclusive masterclass for six performing artists in any discipline. Each participant will receive a 20-minute one-on-one coaching session to work through an excerpt of their choice with Measha, observed by an invited audience. The deadline to apply is February 7th—apply now at https://artspring.ca/mbl-application/.

Community offerings this month include the 100 Women Who Care meeting and Salt Spring Film Festival’s screening of Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore. In the gallery, we have paintings, drawings, and prints by Ronald Smith.

Interested in getting involved with ArtSpring? We are currently seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join our Daytime Box Office and Technical teams. Whether you enjoy connecting with the public or working behind the scenes, we would love to meet you.

Daytime Box Office: These volunteers are the face of ArtSpring! This role involves selling tickets, answering inquiries about ArtSpring events, and supporting box office administration.

  • Commitment: One 2-hour shift per week.
  • Contact: Megan Wilson at megan.w@artspring.ca

Tech Booth: Help make the magic happen in real time! Work alongside our Technical Director to manage sound and lighting for live performances.

  • Commitment: Flexible; based on your availability and show schedules.
  • Contact: Cimmeron Meyer at td@artspring.ca

We look forward to seeing you soon at ArtSpring!

Howard R. Jang

Executive & Artistic Director

ArtSpring