SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER — WHAT’S ON IN SEPTEMBER

It’s that time again! With ticket sales opening at the Box Office in September for the new 2023/24 Season, this year promises to be extra special as ArtSpring celebrates 25 colourful years of arts, history, and community. With over 30 professional performances from across the country and around the globe, six lively Met Operas, and a curated program of the best of the Banff Mountain Film Festival — being screened for the first time on Salt Spring — the Season aims to ignite the imagination, stir the soul, and spark conversation.
Encompassing the classical to the cutting edge, thought-provoking intimate experiences to popular crowd-pleasing comedic and musical acts, refined mature programming to vibrant children’s productions, this Season presents an eclectic repertoire of the best in dance, music, and theatre.
There is still time to get or renew your Membership to attend our Season Launch Event on Tuesday September 5, where members will have advance access to purchase their favourite seats to all performances. You’ll have to attend in person to get first picks, but advance tickets are available at the Box Office or by phone for the rest of the week. Tickets go public (and online) on Tuesday September 12.
September is also a great time to visit ArtSpring during the day as no less than three art exhibitions are scheduled into the Gallery, all focussed on the depth and quality of locals’ work. In the theatre, we are looking forward the sounds of South India with Transcendent Talas and a lively Salt Spring Forum discussion about what our neighbours in Alberta are up to from political scientist Lisa Young. And, if you have a child in grades 2-9 and they love to sing, be sure and register for Makana Youth Choirs, which runs every Friday starting September 15.
We are also pleased to welcome back Island Savings Wealth Management as our Season’s Partner this year, and we thank all of the individual and corporate donors and sponsors who make ArtSpring possible. This will be a year to remember!
With thanks,
Howard R. Jang
Executive & Artistic Director
ArtSpring

In The Theatre

2023/24 Season’s Launch Event!
Tuesday September 5 | 4pm-6pm
An Introduction to the Season | 4:15pm
Tickets on sale in person 4:30pm
We are welcoming all ArtSpring members to a wine and cheese launch event to welcome in our exciting 25th Anniversary 2023/24 Season. Doors open precisely at 4pm and numbered tickets are given in the order people arrive. These will be used to service customers in order. After a short presentation in the theatre by Howard, the Box Office will be open for advance tickets before they go on sale to the public September 12.
Get or renew your membership as this an exclusive benefit to purchase the seats you want all season long. Discounts are available for selecting 5+ Shows.

2023/24 Met Opera: Live in HD
Now on sale! ArtSpring announces its six exhilarating operas for the season, broadcast live in HD from The Met in New York City, including company premieres, new productions, and classic favourites. What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday morning, with the added value of seeing fascinating behind the scenes coverage, live interviews, and an intermission with quiche!
Transcendent Talas
Sat Sept 16 | 7:30pm | $10-$30
Journey into the captivating realm of Carnatic music with “Transcendent Talas,” an awe-inspiring concert that explores the power of rhythm. This spellbinding group promises an evening of soul-stirring compositions, where a kaleidoscope of rhythms and South Indian melodies converge in harmonious resonance.
SS Forum: Lisa Young
Thu Sept 28 | 7:30 | $15-$20
The recent election in Alberta saw the United Conservative Party return with a majority. Premier Danielle Smith is moving the province further to the right, while seeking much greater autonomy within Confederation. Professor Lisa Young, a distinguished political scientist and prolific public commentator, is the best person in Canada to help us understand these developments.

 

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ArtSpring Newsletter — What’s on in August

The dog days of summer are upon us in August, but there is always plenty of news to share, starting with the results of July’s Treasure Fair. With a goal of raising $55,000, we are so pleased to announce a record-breaking total of $67,346, making it the most successful Treasure Fair in our 23 year history of hosting the fundraising event. The Fugitives’ concert was also a well attended toe-tapping event. 

Thank you to over 140 individual and corporate donors, all the bidders, and the organizing committee and volunteers. A massive cheer for committee lead Catherine Griffiths and her dedicated team, and a special thank you to Robert Steinbach of Country Grocer who organized donations for a $1500 BBQ and a $400 tent, along with gift cards and baskets from CG Pharmacy, Harvest Moon Cannabis, and Upper Ganges Liquor Store.

 

We are also proud to announce ArtSpring is relaunching a new and improved version of our Theatre Angel Program. Starting with our first red curtain performance on October 1, the commitment is to make 20 seats available for each and every ArtSpring Presents show for a special rate of $15 per ticket. These will be first come, first served and will be offered one week prior to the performance both in the Box Office and by phone. The intent is to remove barriers to encourage and include those who may not have the means, are on a fixed budget, or may not have had previous experience attending. Donors and sponsors who would like to contribute are graciously invited to allocate their giving specifically to the Angel Program and join us in extending the gift of art to everyone.

 

Don’t forget to purchase or renew your membership as our 25th Anniversary Season 2023/24 Program Brochure will be mailed out in August. Members will be invited to a special Season Launch Preview Gala September 5th, where the line-up will be previewed and tickets go on sale for members only to get first pick of seats before sales go public online Monday September 11.

 

Finally, make sure you have your say as we reach out for ideas of what to include in our 25th Anniversary celebrations. As always, we thank you for your support in helping us springboard into an exciting new season of arts to enrich, uplift, and connect our community.

 

With thanks,

Howard R. Jang

Executive & Artistic Director

ArtSpring

REGISTRATION IS OPEN

August 14-18 10am-4pm: Classes, workshops, scene development.
August 19  10am-3pm: Final preparations and public showcase at 2pm.
Register at ArtSpring now for the first annual Salt Spring Youth New Creatives Festival, summer arts festival for youth aged 13-18 on Salt Spring Island. This year’s focus will be playwriting and acting wherethe students will be mentored by acclaimed industry professionals Natalie Meisner, Jeffrey Renn, and Karen Lee White. Tuition is $200. Three bursaries are available. The Salt Spring Youth New Creatives Festival (SSYNC) is a collaboration between SSYNC & Graffiti Theatre, in partnership with ArtSpring.

EXHIBITIONS & GALLERIES

Connections by League 181 | ArtSpring Lobby

July 18 – August 30 | Tue-Fri 10am-2pm

League 181 members Judith Borbas, Peter Eyles, Don Hodgins, AFCA, Wendy Wickland and Dulcy Wilson present a series of paintings in the ArtSpring Lobby on now through August 30th. Scrubbed and verified leading-edge imagery drives deep creative expression, resulting in an uninhibited team who is fully process-connected — with the past, the present, nature, and each other. (Credit: Don Hodgens)

Photosynthesis Photography Show | ArtSpring Gallery

Aug 23-Sept 4 | 10am-4pm daily | Reception Aug 24 | 5pm to 7:30pm

Photosynthesis mounts its annual fine art photography show Aug 23-Sept 4. Since 2001, this select group of photographers has grown and matured while retaining an eclectic gathering of styles, subject matter, techniques, and visual expression. The leading-edge photography will not disappoint; this is a show that people look forward to each year. This year, the show includes seventeen regular members along with four guest photographers and one student. All participating photographers are residents of Salt Spring Island.

ArtSpring Newsletter — What’s on in May 2023

The sun is finally shining and so is our line up for May. On May 3, artist Kunji Ikeda brings us Sansei: The Storyteller which examines one of Canada’s darkest moments. On December 7, 1941, the attack on Peral Harbour triggered the internment and dispossession of tens of thousands of Japanese Canadians living along Canada’s west coast. Through an engaging blend of dance, spoken word, historical audio, family interviews and unexpected humour, Ikeda weaves an illuminating tale that is profoundly personal. Please also join us for a post show pane with members of the Japanese Canadian community and author Brian Smallshaw to discuss lived experiences and local history.
Youth voices will be on stage May 27 with the Makana Youth Choirs in their Spring term concert followed the next day by a matinee from the prize-winning The next afternoon, prize-winning ensemble Elektra Women’s Choir returns to ArtSpring for a matinee performance from its 45-voice Vancouver-based female chorus.
May also sees a strong line up of community engagements including “Electrify Salt Spring” with CBC’s Bob McDonald Friday May 5 to talk about the future of energy, The popular Salt Spring Singers bring us their Broadway Gold show tunes May 6 and 7, Dogs in the Moonlight have booked its Thematic Rock Concert for six days, and 100+ Women Who Care gather in the theatre to select their next charity to support.
Archipelago: Contemporary Art of the Salish Sea continues its international exhibition with visual art from the San Juans through May 24 and the lobby features the paintings of local artist Pamela Thornley.
Finally, ArtSpring’s Treasure Fair is gearing up for July, with calls for volunteers. Treasures are being accepted for donation as of May 1. Hope you can be a part of all the excitement that’s happening here this month.
With thanks,
Howard R. Jang
Executive & Artistic Director
ArtSpring

IN THE THEATRE

Vetta presents: Wartime Masterpieces
Mon May 1| 7:30pm
Join Joan Blackman, violin, Jane Hayes, piano, and VSO principal cello, Henry Shapard for a journey back to the first half of the twentieth century and three composers deeply affected by world wars.

ArtSpring Presents Sansei: The Storyteller
Wed May 3 | 7:30
Through an engaging blend of dance, spoken word, historical audio, family interviews, and unexpected humour, Kunji Ikeda weaves an illuminating tale about his family’s experience with the Japanese internment during WWII.

Salt Spring Community Energy presents “Electrify Salt Spring” with CBC’s Bob McDonald
Fri May 5 | 7:00pm
CBC Quirks and Quarks Host Bob McDonald leads a talk from his book “The Future Is Now” about the new green revolution. Includes Q&A.

Salt Spring Singers presents: Broadway Gold
Sat May 6 | 7:30 pm
Sun May 7 | 2pm
Celebrating 50 years, Salt Spring Singers perform a medley of classic Broadway songs and memorable melodies.

Good Company Entertainment presents: Dogs in the Moonlight: A Thematic Rock Concert (6 nights)
Fri May 12 – Sat May 13 | 7:30pm
Wed May 17 – Sat May 20 | 7:30pm
An homage to Don Henley, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Carly Simon, The Beatles, and more. From the people who brought you Timepiece and Peter on the Brink.

100+ Women Who Care presents: May Mingler and Vote
Thurs May 25 | 6:30pm
Time to meet, mingle, and vote for one of three charities who will be presenting live. This is for members of 100+ Women Who Care.
ArtSpring Presents
Makana Youth Choir: Spring Concert
Sat May 27 | 7:30pm
The Kids (grade 2-5) and Youth (grade 6-9) Choirs show off what they have learned this term in a show that spans pop, folk, classical, and music from all over the world.
ArtSpring Presents Elektra Women’s Choir
Sun May 28 | 2:30pm
Since 1987, this award-winning powerful 45-voice choir has been known for its adventurous programming, seeking out music written specifically for women.

EXHIBITIONS & GALLERIES

Pamela Thornley | ArtSpring Lobby
May 1 – May 30
Daily 10am-4pm until May 24, then regular ArtSpring hours Tues-Friday.
“My paintings have been inspired by my life and travels throughout the beautiful Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island. It is my hope that people will see & experience the natural world as I see it.”

Archipelago: Contemporary Art of the Salish Sea | ArtSpring Gallery
Sat April 22-Wed May 24 | 10-4pm daily
ArtSpring is proud to present its first international visual art exhibition, as part of a unique cultural exchange between two of North America’s most feted arts communities – the Southern Gulf Islands and the San Juan Islands. ArtSpring presents six acclaimed San Juan artists Danielle Dean (photography,) Joe Miller (painting,) Glenn Hendrick (printmaking,) Raven Skyriver (glass) and Tom Small (stone sculpture.) Don’t miss seeing this remarkable exhibition! In collaboration with San Juan Museum of Art and Salt Spring arts.

ArtSpring Newsletter — What’s on in March 2023

A colourful medley of clown and circus artists, Japanese dance, piano and percussion, bluegrass, and an operatic masterpiece blooms on stage this March at ArtSpring. Social calendars are bound to be busy!
Adding to the Spring mix, Vetta Presents is back with its inimitable and irreverent classical crossover style, Salt Spring Forum talks earthquakes, and ArtSpring’s Lobby and Gallery are awash in local creativity with exhibitions from the SS Painters Guild and the Printmakers Exhibit.
Also in the news, we’re pleased to announce we have found and appointed our new Technical Director who will be assuming the role March 13. We welcome islander Cimmeron Meyer and look forward to her bringing her many skills to the stage and behind the scenes. We are so thankful to have had Malcolm Harris at the helm for these past years and will miss him, even though he’ll be close at hand and is always welcome.
So much to see and talk about this month. I look forward to seeing you at ArtSpring soon!
With thanks,
Howard R. Jang
Executive & Artistic Director
ArtSpring

IN THE THEATRE

Mon Mar 6 | 7:30pm
Joe Trio, with Cameron Wilson, violin/arranger, Charles Inkman, cello, and Allen Stiles, piano, have delighted audiences across Canada and beyond with an inimitable and irreverent classical crossover style. Tonight they are joined by Joan Blackman on violin.

Sat Mar 11 | 7:30
A surreal, wordless, physical comedy. With otherworldly room service, broken lamps, creaky floorboards, and giant rats, a guest confronts a proprietor who has been hiding his true self. A gorgeous, hilarious, and daring theatrical experience where magic lingers in every shadow.

Tue Mar 14 | 7:30pm
Accomplished dancer-choreographer-actor Hiromoto Ida skillfully merges Japanese dance, theatre, classical music, and voice to tell the story of the old man, raising a glass of sake to himself in celebration on what will be his last birthday.

Sat Mar 18 | 9:00am (NEW PRODUCTION)
Wagner’s soaring masterpiece makes its triumphant return to the Met stage after 17 years. A supreme cast led by tenor Piotr Beczała in the title role of the mysterious swan knight.

Wed Mar 22 | 7:30pm
Bringing together three people, 38 percussion instruments, one piano. A dazzling repertoire across musical styles including works by Bach, Schubert, Ravel, Chabrier, Copland, Rachmaninoff, Piazzolla, Brubeck, Saint Saëns, as well as their own original compositions.

Sat Mar 25 | 7:30pm
Please note the performance published in the program has been rescheduled for the fall. Instead, Gryphon Trio brings you a luminous new musical experience featuring violist Radia (Ryan Davis) weaving together classical, folk, and electronic traditions with original compositions and visuals.
Sun Mar 26 | 3:00pm
Dr. John Cassidy leads the Forum discussion on earthquakes and what living in one of the most seismically active regions in Canada could mean for us. What causes earthquakes? Could the “big one” happen in our lifetime? How can we be better prepared?

Thurs Mar 30 | 7:30pm
Rooted in tradition, fearlessly creative, and possessing a bold, dynamic sound, Juno-nominated The Slocan Ramblers have become a leading light of today’s acoustic music scene, heralded as the “bluegrass band to watch.”

EXHIBITIONS

SSI Painters Guild Exhibition Spring Show
ArtSpring Lobby
Tue-Fri, Mar 2 –30 | 10am-4pm, and before all theatre events.
Works done in groups, under instruction, or in workshops, reflecting The Guild’s diverse activities. The Guild promotes the artistic growth and self-expression of our members through encouragement, fellowship, mentoring and workshops.

SSI Printmakers Exhibition Re-imagined: Creating Art from Waste!
ArtSpring Gallery
Tue-Fri, Mar 14 –26 | 10am-4pm.
Opening Reception Mar 15
Keeping waste from the landfill and turning it into art is the theme for 27 artists plus prints from nine school classes (K-12). It will be an extravaganza of colour, waste materials, and designs. All welcome.

ArtSpring Newsletter — What’s on in February 2023

February showers us with arts, culture, and community this month with stirring music and dance performances, thought-provoking films, and a new exhibit of paintings and photography entitled “What Moves Me.” The theme of the month, indeed!
On February 3, Jasmine Jazz features an unusual and exquisite east-meets-west interplay between traditional Chinese and jazz instruments led by Juno-nominated bassist and composer Jodi Proznick. Then, it’s a back-to-back weekend on Feb 10th and 11th with Canadian pianist/conductor Ian Parker returning to captivate audiences, followed by popular Top 10 singer-songwriter Andrew Allen, with his comic wit, story-telling, smooth vocals, and great songwriting.
Graveyards & Gardens arrives February 16, a collaborative performance installation created and performed by Pulitzer Prize-winning musician and composer Caroline Shaw and award-winning choreographer and contemporary dance artist Vanessa Goodman.
Finally for ArtSpring Presents this month is dancer and choreographer Tara Cheyenne, in her solo piece Body Parts, in which her own body comically side-tracks her performance.
Salt Spring Film Festival is back with two special Wednesday screenings, Shaw and Goodman conduct a public dance workshop, 100+ Women Who Care rally for their cause, and Julianna Slomka presides over the lobby with a very personal collection of works.
So much to see and talk about. I look forward to seeing you at ArtSpring soon!
With thanks,
Howard R. Jang
Executive & Artistic Director
ArtSpring

IN THE THEATRE

Wed Feb 1 | 7:30pm
A middle-aged master tailor and his devoted wife find their relationship turned upside down by the arrival of a handsome new apprentice in this richly erotic and deeply moving Moroccan film, which has won multiple awards around the world.

Fri Feb 3 | 7:30
An unusual, exquisite interplay between traditional Chinese and jazz instruments, featuring musicians from the Vancouver Chinese Music Ensemble and Vancouver’s finest jazz artists. Led by Juno-nominated bassist/composer Jodi Proznick.

Wed Feb 8 | 7:30pm
A huge hit at the Vancouver International Film Festival, this wildly entertaining movie follows the filmmaker on her journey to find out why the NBA’s Vancouver Grizzlies left Canada over 20 years ago. Filmmaker Kat Jayme in attendance.

Fri Feb 10| 7:30pm
Canadian pianist and Vancouver Academy of Music conductor Ian Parker returns from his tour with orchestras across North America to captivate audiences here with an enthusiastic recital.

ArtSpring Presents Andrew Allen

Sat Feb 11 | 7:30pm

Popular Top 10 singer-songwriter Andrew Allen, who has toured with the likes of Bruno Mars and One Republic, lends his comic wit and smooth vocals to a dynamic, interactive live show.

Mon Feb 13 | 7:00pm
Having raised over $211,000 in four years for 12 Salt Spring causes, 100 Women Who Care is back to hear nominee presentations and vote for February’s winner in this high-impact philanthropic collective. Doors open at 6:30 pm.
 
DAISSI presents Celebration of Bill Turner
Tues Feb 14 | 7:00pm
Diverse and Inclusive SSI (DAISSI) welcomes 2SLGBTQIA+ members and all friends to a celebration of love for recently passed community advocate Bill Turner.
Wed Feb 15 | 5:00pm
A 90-minute dance composition workshop with Caroline Shaw and Vanessa Goodman, exploring collaboration between sound and movement. Discover their process prior to their show the next night.
Thurs Feb 16 | 7:30pm
Created and performed by Pulitzer Prize-winning musician/composer Caroline Shaw and award-winning choreographer/dance artist Vanessa Goodman. “One of the most memorable Vancouver theatre moments of 2021.”
Sat Feb 25 | 7:30pm
Part stand-up comedy, part Greek tragedy, part performance art, part contemporary dance, Body Parts is Tara Cheyenne’s solo piece whereby her own body comically fights and side-tracks per performance. (13+)

EXHIBITIONS

Julianna Slomka: “What Moves Me.”
ArtSpring lobby
Tue-Fri, Feb 2–27 | 10am-2pm, and before all theatre events
Paintings, drawings in graphite, white pencil, charcoal, or pastel, and photography, “all portraying a variety of subjects that interest me, and I hope move the viewer.”

ArtSpring Newsletter — What’s on in January 2023

    A fresh-faced new year now upon us, January at ArtSpring promises Baroque Bach, Blues, and the best of Opera through its ArtSpring Presents program as well as local stagings, screenings, and exhibitions. The Gulf Island Secondary School (GISS’s) dance, theatre, and music programs all hit the stage in the first half of January, and Makana’s Kids and Youth Choirs take on new registrations for the Spring term as of January 10th.
    On Saturday, January 14th, the Met’s award-winning opera series Live in HD presents Umberto Giordano’s exhilarating drama Fedora, returning to the Met repertory for the first time in 25 years. That Sunday, Victoria Baroque returns with the much-loved British harpsichordist and music director Steven Devine in a program of exhilarating works by Johann Sebastian Bach.
    Switch gears into the guitar riffs and vocal stylings of Suzie Vinnick and Lloyd Spiegel on January 22 as they deliver blues, storytelling, and juke joint energy. Salt Spring Film Festival hosts a special screening of “Call Jane,” starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver, a compelling drama set in 1968 about the fight for women’s right to choose. Vetta is back, this time with the dynamic duo from Barcelona, Kai Gleusteen and Catherine Ordronneau, for a classic program of romantic chamber music.
    Finally, come explore January’s Lobby Exhibition from the Salt Spring Photography Club, where it displays its “Best of 2022.” It’s a robust month of community and culture. I look forward to seeing you at ArtSpring soon!
With thanks,
Howard R. Jang
Executive & Artistic Director
ArtSpring

IN THE THEATRE

Thurs Jan 5 | 7:30pm
Fri Jan 6 | 7:30 pm
This thrilling and mysterious production is designed and produced entirely by GISS students. Join famous Detective Poirot in the 1930s as he solves a murder where everyone is a suspect!

Wed Jan 11 | 7:30
Thurs Jan 12 | 7:30
The semester-end collection of choreography by dance students features tributes to Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Queen Latifa, and even to Glen Miller’s “In the Mood” in swing time step.

Sat Jan 14 | 10am
Umberto Giordano’s exhilarating drama returns to the Met repertory for the first time in 25 years. Starring soprano Sonya Yoncheva, one of today’s most riveting artists, in the title role of the 19th-century Russian princess who falls in love with her fiancé’s murderer. Sung in Italian.

Sun Dec 15 | 2:30pm
The much-loved British harpsichordist and music director Steven Devine returns to direct Victoria Baroque in a program of exhilarating works by Johann Sebastian Bach and his son, Carl Philipp Emmanuel.

GISS Music presents Lost Together

Wed Jan 18 | 7:30pm

Thurs Jan 19 | 7:30pm

Join GISS Music Students in their semester-end music celebration! Concert Band, Jazz Band, Choir students, as well as students from the Composition and GISPA Music classes.

Sun Jan 22 | 7:30pm
Blues and folk guitar riffs, storytelling, and vocal stylings from award-winning Saskatoon native Vinnick and Australian powerhouse Spiegel promise to bring the house down.
Wed Jan 25 | 7:30pm
Elizabeth Banks plays a conservative housewife in 1968 Chicago whose second pregnancy leads to a devastating diagnosis in a time when abortion was illegal. She discovers an underground network who helps. Sigourney Weaver also stars.
Vetta presents Romanticism Unleashed
Mon Jan 30 | 7:30pm
Vetta Chamber Orchestra is delighted to have the dynamic duo from Barcelona, Kai Gleusteen and Catherine Ordronneau, join them for a classic program of romantic chamber music.

EXHIBITIONS

SS Photography Club presents Annual Exhibition
ArtSpring lobby
Tue-Fri, Jan 4 –30 | 10am-2pm, and before all theatre events
Local photographers are on display as the Best of 2022 is put forward — work of any subject matter, size, and technical approach. Many images available for sale.

YOUTH

Tues Jan 10 | 10:00am – Friday Jan 28 2:00pm
Registrations open at the Box Office for Kids (Grade 2-5) and Youth (Grade 6-9) for Spring Terms starting Friday January 28. Practices every Friday. End of Term concert May 27th. Learn music literacy, singing techniques, and make new friends!

VOLUNTEER AT ARTSPRING


Are you looking for a fun way to engage with the ArtSpring community and give back? We’re looking for volunteers for our upcoming season.

From ushering at shows, to box office help, to billeting visiting artists, there are volunteer roles to fit just about everyone. Build skills, meet like-minded people, and enjoy great perks.
Visit artspring.ca/volunteer or email megan.w@artspring.ca to find out more.

ArtSpring acknowledges the unceded territory and the ancestors of Salt Spring Island, the Coast Salish First Nations peoples of Salt Spring and surrounding areas, who continue to use and steward these lands. We at ArtSpring wish to pay respect to the Elders of this land, past and present.

ArtSpring Newsletter — What’s on December 2022

Happy Holidays! The holiday season promises to sparkle at ArtSpring this month, with one ArtSpring Presents performance, a Met Opera Live in HD world premiere, and a busy house of local and regional concerts to capture the festive spirit.
Grammy-winning musician John Reischman brings back his global reputation as one of the finest mandolinists of his era to fans of folk, bluegrass, and old-time swing with his acoustic band the Jaybirds.
Saturday morning opera lovers can look forward to the Met Opera’s world premiere ofThe Hours, adapted from Michael Cunningham’s Pulitzer-prize winning novel of the same name and inspired by the Oscar-winning film.
Our friends at Bandemonium combine forces with Swing Shift Big Band to swing us into the holiday mood. Vetta Chamber Music is back with Bach and Mendelssohn, The Salt Spring Film Festival follows up its sold-out screening of Leonard Cohen with a documentary about Buffy Sainte Marie, and Viva Chorale! presents Christmas in the Cotswolds with proceeds to the Salt Spring Island Food Bank.
Finally, we hold our AGM on December 5 at 5pm at ArtSpring. All are invited. Those who have been members since November 5, or are renewing, are welcome to vote.
I look forward to seeing you in the theatre soon!

With thanks,
Howard R Jang
Executive & Artistic Director, ArtSpring

IN THE THEATRE

Sat Dec 3 | 7:30pm
Two popular local performing bands combine forces to bring an eclectic offering sprinkled with seasonal favourites from Benny Goodman to Duke Ellington. Guest artists Yael Wand and Brandon Bronson.

Sun Dec 4 | 7:30
Grammy Award-winning mandolinist John Reischman and his Jaybird bandmates perform their signature Pacific Northwest sound of acoustic bluegrass, folk, and swing.

 

Vetta presents Bach and Mendelssohn

Mon Dec 5 | 7:30pm
The Vetta all-woman ensemble explores the deep connections between Bach and Mendelssohn. Four of the ten players this season are young professionals or university students.

Wed Dec 7 | 7:30 pm
Named “Best New Artist” the year The Beatles came to America, Buffy Sainte-Marie defied the odds. An inspiring look at her groundbreaking career, the film has been met with wide acclaim.

Sat Dec 10 | 10am
Renée Fleming makes her radiant return in this world-premiere production of The Hours, adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel from Michael Cunningham and the Oscar-winning film. Composer Kevin Puts.

Fri Dec 16 | 7pm
Enjoy choral music, carol sing-a-longs, and actor Jeffrey Renn reading from “Cider with Rosie.” Stay for cider and baked treats. All proceeds go to SSI Food Bank.

EXHIBITIONS

Lesley Burke: No Personal Space
ArtSpring lobby
Tue-Fri, Dec 1–16 | 10am-2pm, and before all theatre events
In these lushly colourful acrylic and mixed media artworks, Lesley Burke aims to capture a kinder, closer experience after the isolation of Covid.

ARTSPRING MEMBERSHIP


Show your support for your community performing and visual arts centre by purchasing an annual ArtSpring membership. Members get advance purchase on the ArtSpring Presents seasons and the right to vote at ArtSpring’s AGMs in December.

Individual memberships cost $30 and Couple’s memberships are $50 per year.

VOLUNTEER AT ARTSPRING


Are you looking for a fun way to engage with the ArtSpring community and give back? We’re looking for volunteers for our upcoming season.

From ushering at shows, to box office help, to billeting visiting artists, there are volunteer roles to fit just about everyone. Build skills, meet like-minded people, and enjoy great perks.
Visit artspring.ca/volunteer or email megan.w@artspring.ca to find out more.

ArtSpring acknowledges the unceded territory and the ancestors of Salt Spring Island, the Coast Salish First Nations peoples of Salt Spring and surrounding areas, who continue to use and steward these lands. We at ArtSpring wish to pay respect to the Elders of this land, past and present.

ArtSpring newsletter – What’s on October 2022

And so it begins! I’m incredibly proud of our new ArtSpring Presents season, which opens this month with a world premiere from Ballet Victoria. We also present exceptional music performances throughout October – from Accademia de’ Dissonanti, the Victoria Conservatory of Music’s Young Artists Collegium program, and Mirror Visions Ensemble.

There are two other new season launches this month. Our friends at Vetta Chamber Music return for the first in their series of five concerts. And the Met: Live in HD series is back for Saturday morning opera lovers.

An opportunity to hear from your local election candidates, and two exhibitions from community artists – painting group League 181, and the Weavers and Spinners Guild – round out a packed month at ArtSpring. I hope you can be a part of it.

I look forward to seeing you in the theatre soon.

With thanks,
Howard R Jang
Executive & Artistic Director, ArtSpring

IN THE THEATRE


Ballet Victoria – Broadway on Pointe and other works
Sun Oct 2 | 2:30pm
A world premiere from Ballet Victoria. A tribute to Broadway’s most iconic tunes featuring songs from Chicago, Kiss Me Kate, and Sweet Charity.
 

2022 Local Elections Debate
Thu Oct 6 | 7pm-9pm
Presented by The Driftwood and the Salt Spring Forum, and moderated by Aletha Humphreys. All candidates running for election to the CRD and Island Trust positions in the local elections of October 15 2022 will be present to present their plans and answer questions from the public. Free – no ticket or reservation required.
 

Accademia de’ Dissonanti – Boccheriniana
Thu Oct 13 | 7:30pm
Artistic director Elinor Frey.
Boccheriniana celebrates one of the most delightful and original voices of the classical era, Luigi Boccherini.
 

Vetta Presents: Inspiration
Mon Oct 17 | 7:30pm
This opening concert of the Vetta season features two of Vancouver’s own – pianist extraordinaire Jane Coop and composer Marcus Goddard with music inspired by other composers, literature and the muses.
 

The Met: Live in HD – Medea
Sat Oct 22 | 10am
In Cherubini’s rarely performed masterpiece, soprano Sondra Radvanovsky stars as the mythic sorceress who will stop at nothing in her quest for vengeance.
 

Victoria Conservatory of Music – Young Artists Collegium Program
Sun Oct 23 | 1:30pm
The very best students from VCM’S Young Artists Collegium Program perform a special chamber music concert, featuring ensembles on strings, winds and piano.
 

Mirror Visions Ensemble – Journeys
Thu Oct 27 | 7:30pm
Soprano, tenor, baritone, and piano take audiences on an imaginative journey, showcasing well-known and neglected pieces, set to texts by poets and historical figures.
 

EXHIBITIONS


League 181 – An Eclectic Convergence
ArtSpring lobby
Tue-Fri, Oct 2-28 | 10am-2pm, and before all theatre events.
Judith Borbas, Peter Eyles, Don Hodgins, Wendy Wickland, and Dulcy Wilson.
A collaborative painting group since 2013, who fuel each others’ enthusiasm for creating art, finding new challenges, and enjoying each others’ company.
 

Salt Spring Island Weavers and Spinners Guild – Show and Sale
ArtSpring gallery
Fri Oct 7 – Mon Oct 10 | 10am-4pm
Beautiful and practical items for the home, a large selection of popular garments and accessories, including hats, scarves, shawls and sweaters, and for knitters, handspun and mill-spun yarn. All items are handmade by guild members, or fibre products from their farms.
 

YOUTH


Makana Youth Choir
Grades 2-5 and 6-9
Fridays 3-4pm and 4-5pm
Discover the joys of group singing!
The Makana Youth Choirs are the place to develop healthy singing habits, learn musical literacy skills, and put on a concert. All while having fun with your friends.
 

ARTSPRING MEMBERSHIP


Show your support for your community performing and visual arts centre by purchasing an annual ArtSpring membership. Members get advance purchase on the 2022-23 ArtSpring Presents season.
 
Individual memberships cost $30 and Couple’s memberships are $50, per year.

VOLUNTEER AT ARTSPRING


Are you looking for a fun way to engage with the ArtSpring community and give back? We’re looking for volunteers for our upcoming season.

From ushering at shows, to box office help, to billeting visiting artists, there are volunteer roles to fit just about everyone. Build skills, meet like-minded people, and enjoy great perks.
Visit artspring.ca/volunteer or email megan.w@artspring.ca to find out more.
 
ArtSpring acknowledges the unceded territory and the ancestors of Salt Spring Island, the Coast Salish First Nations peoples of Salt Spring and surrounding areas, who continue to use and steward these lands. We at ArtSpring wish to pay respect to the Elders of this land, past and present.

ArtSpring newsletter – What’s on September 2022

I hope you’ve all had a wonderful summer. After a relatively quiet couple of months it feels good to see more events coming up in the theatre – a great start to what’s going to be a very busy season.

Broadcaster, musician, and author Grant Lawrence kicks off September with an evening of stories, songs, and musical friends. ArtSpring presents a special rough cut performance from CAMP dance collective at the end of their week-long residency with us. And there are two documentary movies this month – the Dosed filmmakers return, and there’s a film fundraiser event about the transformational power of yoga.

There’s also a big art fundraising event in the galleries – for the SSNAP Parallel Art Show – and the lobby exhibition for September sees new work from the Island Textile Artists.

We’re releasing details of our own ArtSpring Presents 2022-23 season next week. Don’t forget to buy your annual membership to get advance purchase on new season tickets. Also next week, tickets go on sale for the return of the Met: Live in HD opera broadcasts.

I look forward to seeing you in the theatre soon.

With thanks,
Howard R Jang
Executive & Artistic Director, ArtSpring

IN THE THEATRE


Grant Lawrence and Friends – An Evening of Stories and Songs
Fri Sep 9 | 7:30pm
Bestselling author, broadcaster, historian, and humourist Grant Lawrence returns to Salt Spring with special musical guests, including Tom Hooper and Phöenix Lazare.
 

CAMP dance collective rough cut
Fri Sep 16 | 5pm-6pm
At the end of a week-long residency, artist-run dance collective CAMP will be sharing what they have been working on in a short rough-cut performance, with audience Q&A.
 

DOSED 2: The Trip of a Lifetime – with filmmaker Q&A
Sat Sep 17 | 7:30pm
Laurie, a loving mother of four, is granted the right to legally use magic mushrooms to treat her end-of-life anxiety. Followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.
 

The Circle – documentary film fundraiser
Fri Sep 23 | 8pm
A film about the transformational power of yoga in curing drug addiction in the street children of Mumbai. Followed by a Q&A with Yogi and priest, Fr Joe Pereira.
 

EXHIBITIONS


Island Textile Artists – Embracing Nature
ArtSpring lobby
Tue-Fri, Sep 1-28 | 10am-1pm, and before all theatre events.
The Island Textile Artists present an exhibition of work offering hope for our blue planet earth. Through their textile art they offer motivation to embrace nature for the beauty and health she provides.

PAS 250 – The Parallel Art Show fundraiser
ArtSpring gallery
Fri Sep 2 – Mon Sep 5 | 10am-4pm
Support Southern Gulf Islands Artists. Take home an original work of art.
The Salt Spring National Art Prize Society invites you to PAS 250—The Parallel Art Show fundraiser!
 

THE MET: LIVE IN HD


We’re excited to bring back live broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera. This thrilling new season starts Saturday October 22 with Cherubini’s Medea.

Tickets go on sale on Tuesday August 30 – 10am in person or by phone, and from 1pm online.
 

ARTSPRING MEMBERSHIP


Show your support for your community performing and visual arts centre by purchasing an annual ArtSpring membership. Members get advance purchase on the 2022-23 ArtSpring Presents season.

Individual memberships cost $30 and Couple’s memberships are $50, per year.
 

VOLUNTEER AT ARTSPRING


Are you looking for a fun way to engage with the ArtSpring community and give back? We’re looking for volunteers for our upcoming season.

From ushering at shows, to box office help, to billeting visiting artists, there are volunteer roles to fit just about everyone. Build skills, meet like-minded people, and enjoy great perks.
Visit artspring.ca/volunteer or email megan.w@artspring.ca to find out more.

ArtSpring acknowledges the unceded territory and the ancestors of Salt Spring Island, the Coast Salish First Nations peoples of Salt Spring and surrounding areas, who continue to use and steward these lands. We at ArtSpring wish to pay respect to the Elders of this land, past and present.

ArtSpring newsletter – What’s On August 2022

I hope you are having a wonderful summer. It might be a quieter month on the ArtSpring stage, but behind the scenes we’re keeping busy preparing for the ArtSpring Presents 2022-23 season. I’ll be able to give you a sneak peek of what will be in our new season in a couple of weeks. I can’t wait to share it with you.

This month the much-loved Salt Spring Chamber Music Festival faculty is back for two special concerts. Kai Gleusteen, Paula Kiffner, Amy Laing, Catherine Ordronneau, Paule Prefontaine, David Stewart, and David Visentin will be on stage on two consecutive nights, with a pre-concert talk before both.

Another regular visitor to ArtSpring is artist Johanna Hoskins. She has new work in a month-long exhibition – a feast of mixed media pieces grace the walls of our lobby in August.

Lastly, please join me in congratulating the Treasure Fair team, led by Catherine Griffiths, for their fantastic fundraising work. We reached 120% of our target. It was truly a joy to watch the community come together to support ArtSpring. Thank you if you were one of the silent auction item donors, a bidder, or helped in any way to contribute to the success.

I look forward to seeing you in the theatre soon.

With thanks,
Howard R Jang
Executive & Artistic Director, ArtSpring

IN THE THEATRE

Salt Spring Chamber Music Festival
Concert one – Deeper
Fri Aug 12 | 7:30pm
The faculty of the Chamber Music Festival presents a program of Debussy, Schnittke, and Beethoven. With a pre-concert talk at 7pm.

Salt Spring Chamber Music Festival
Concert two – Deepest
Sat Aug 13 | 7:30pm
The faculty of the Chamber Music Festival presents a program of Shostakovich, and Brahms.
With a pre-concert talk at 7pm

 

EXHIBITIONS

Johanna Hoskins – Playing With Paper and Other Things
ArtSpring lobby
Tue-Fri, Aug 2-31 | 10am-1pm, and before all theatre events.
“It’s all about textures, colours, and shapes. Add in a variety of mediums, surfaces, and found objects – and then the fun begins”. Johanna Hoskins

 

VOLUNTEER AT ARTSPRING

Would you like to join our fabulous front of house team for the new season? We’re always looking for new volunteers to help in the theatre or in the box office. Full training is given for every role, and there’s lots of flexibility with your volunteer commitment.

Please get in touch with our Front of House Manager & Co-ordinator of Volunteers Megan Wilson (250.537.2102), or fill in the Volunteer Form on our website. We look forward to meeting you.

ArtSpring acknowledges the unceded territory and the ancestors of Salt Spring Island, the Coast Salish First Nations peoples of Salt Spring and surrounding areas, who continue to use and steward these lands. We at ArtSpring wish to pay respect to the Elders of this land, past and present.