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Weekend Roundup: Best Bets for February 3 to 5

Quinsin Nachoff is just one of the performers taking the stage at the Ottawa Winter Jazzfest.

Friday, Feb. 3
Jazz up your weekend by taking in the international and local talent at the first annual Ottawa Winter Jazzfest. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz enthusiast or looking to diversify your musical tastes, this festival promises to thaw that winter chill. Hop all over downtown Ottawa, from the National Arts Centre to Club SAW to the Mercury Lounge to catch the smooth sounds of artists such as Megan Jerome, Quinsin Nachoff, Remi Bolduc, and the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble of Chicago.

Experience Ottawa’s diverse architecture and examine the relationship between architecture, the arts, and politics through music with Polytectures. This sound walk was created by Montreal’s Antoine Bédard and 10 local musicians. Through a variety of musical styles, Polytectures allows visitors and locals alike to experience Ottawa’s architecture in new ways by pairing songs with local landmarks. Although the entire walk is an hour long, it has been divided into sections with warm-up breaks for Winterlude.

If you’re a film buff with a soft spot for independent cinema, then you’re going to want to Get Iced this weekend. The Independent Filmmakers Co-operative of Ottawa is presenting 10 new Super 8 short films made by local filmmakers in cooperation with Winterlude. Afterwards, unwind with drinks at the Soviet-style reception hosted by Avant-Garde Bar and Gift Shop. The party continues at the bar after 9:30pm with live music and no cover charge.

This Friday, Yamantaka //Sonic Titan and Boyhood bring the party to Babylon. Yamantaka //Sonic Titan are a psychedelic opera group that fuses noise, metal, folk, and pop music to create an east-meets-west culture clash extravaganza. Boyhood is new on the Ottawa scene, bringing catchy songs with haunting melodies. (more…)

Hot Dates: Cat Came Back

Cat Came Back image courtesy of Manitoba Theatre for Young People

Feb 3-12 A merry band of musicians, a grumpy neighbour and a mysterious pet combine forces in The Cat Came Back. The new play, based on beloved children’s performer Fred Penner’s iconic song, is a whirlwind of expert puppetry and great music. Sly feline humour helps tell the tale of the unusual relationship between a man and his cat. Manitoba Theatre for Young People, 2 Forks Market Rd, 204-942-8898 for tickets.

Hot Date: Hanson

Photo courtesy of Festival Place

January 27
Thirteen years ago, this American pop trio “MMM-bopped” their way onto the stage—to the delight of adoring ’tweens everywhere. Well, they’re back and they’re all grown up. This show is part of an extensive Canadian tour in conjunction with their fifth studio album, Shout It Out—an inspired repertoire featuring their own style of R&B flavoured pop-rock. Festival Place – Sherwood Park; $43.25 – $47.25; call 1-855-985-5000 for tickets.

Hot Entertainment: City and Colour

Photo courtesy of Vanessa Heins

January 25 – 26
Juno Award winner Dallas Green, best known under the moniker City and Colour, mesmerizes audiences with his soothing falsetto voice, lyrical storylines, and folklike sounds—a stunning departure from his former gig with post-hardcore group Alexisonfire. City and Colour’s latest album Little Hell—which explores the little “hells” and “heavens” that inevitably comprise our relationships—promises to elevate Green’s status as a top-tier Canadian musician. Jubilee Auditorium, $38.50–$44.50; call 780-451-8000 for tickets

Weekend Picks: Gift Givin’s

With Christmas day just around the corner, this weekend marks the last shopping weekend of the season. And, if you’re like most of us here at Where Edmonton, you’ve probably still got a couple of people on your list to buy for. Or, maybe even an entire list of people to buy for. Well, don’t fret because we’re here to help you score that little special something to slip under the tree this holiday season. We’ve highlighted some of central Edmonton’s most unique boutiques sure to have something for everyone on your list. And the best part? You don’t even need to brave those overcrowded and often stuffy malls to find that special gift. Our choices will have you saying hallelujah, not only for the fact that you were able to wrap up — pun intended — your Christmas shopping, but also for the fact you were able to keep your sanity while doing it — and even, dare we say, enjoying it!

124^th Street
The charming character of 124^th street is not lost when stepping inside the one-of-a-kind shops that line the street. From the art galleries and specialty stores to the fashion boutiques and fantastic eateries, 124^th Street offers an array of local businesses sure to have that perfect present for you to give this Christmas.

The enchanting jewelry and accessories over at Miss Boss will definitely have that lady in your life aglow on Christmas morning. Betsy Johnson bracelets, Matt and Nat purses and Diesel wallets are just a few of the chic items that await at this quaint shop, where you’ll even be able to find some local pieces including Kiko Jewelry.

Got a little one you need to cross off your list? Drop in at Bosom Babies, a trendy children’s store filled to the brim with an array of goodies. From fascinating toys and adorable accents to charming clothing and stylish shoes, the lucky little one who receives any gift from here will definitely be in vogue this holiday season.

Music lovers? Check. Listen Records and CDs is an ecclectic music emporium that offers a fantastic selection of ethnic, funk, soul, rare groove, indie, electronic, dub, reggae, hip hop, and, well, petty much anything — music related, of course — under the sun.

High Street
You’ll find much of the same historical charm in the shops on High Street as the 124^thStreet boutiques. Similarly, this area offers some of the city’s best local clothing stores, eateries and specialty shops.

Lux Beauty Boutique is a beauty product heaven bursting at the seams with some of the most luxurious and hard-to-find items on the market. Glamour is the name of the game at LUX with brand names like Tokyo Milk, Lollia, Butter, and Bumble and Bumble lining the shelves.

For a slice of stationary heaven, stop in at Notables Stationers, home to a fine selection of stationary, journals, photo albums and writing instruments. The handcrafted Phasha and Moleskine journals are a glorious gift giving idea for both writers and non-writers alike.

Unique clothing for men and women, shoes, jewelry, and scarves are what you’ll find at Red Ribbon. An ecclectic selection of Canadian and international clothing lines call this shop home including TOMS, Free People, and WESC.

The Warehouse District
A short walk from the downtown core, 104^th Street’s warehouse district is home to chic urban shops, historic warehouses turned residential lofts, and some of the most fantastic local fare.

A home décor dreamboat, Amrstrong29 is a great place to find something for the person who has everything. Many of the products are made to order and the shop even carries local designer Loyal Loot Collective.

Luxurious is one word to describe the pieces at Coup Boutique, but it sure isn’t the only one. This 104^th Street shop offers an old-world setting and boasts timeless, classic wear for women.

If you’re searching for an eco-friendly gift, then Carbon Environmental Boutique is your answer. The retail store features environmentally friendly items that promote non-toxic living. Here, you’ll be able to find everything from kitchenware and children’s clothing to bed and bath items and home improvement and construction products.

Hot Entertainment: Jay-Z and Kanye West

Jay-Z. Photo by Chris Baldwin

Kanye West

Rap Royalty

With over 65 million albums sold worldwide and 27 Grammy Awards between them, there’s no doubt hip-hop heavyweights Jay-Z and Kanye West are successful solo artists. So you can imagine that when these two rappers collaborated for their album Watch The Throne, it was a sure bet. The duo’s smart rhymes, unconventional samples and experiments with sound have translated into a marathon concert with 30-plus tracks on the set list. Rogers Arena is the last stop on their tour, and it will be a show you won’t want to miss (Dec. 17 and 18).—Kristina Urquhart

More information:

7:30 pm. Rogers Arena, Pacific Blvd. at Abbott St. Tickets 1-855-985-5000.

Q&A with The Good Lovelies on their Christmas Tour

Get your fill of holiday music with The Good Lovelies.

This Canadian folk group takes the stage at Shenkman Arts Centre on Dec. 13 as part of their special Christmas tour. Where Ottawa editor Misa Kobayashi caught up with The Good Lovelies in advance of their local show to find out about their travel essentials, where they love to eat when they’re in Ottawa, and more.

What’s your favourite activity to do on the road?
Well, we bought some skipping ropes about a year ago. When we get restless, we get out of the car and jump rope for a few minutes. Invariably, we make friends with any young girls that happen to be around. They join in without asking. It’s a way more fun version of the elementary school playground! And we love eating in new places, checking out the local cuisine. Recently we had some incredible Indian food in Northern Ontario in Bruce Mines. Go figure! (more…)

Hot Date: The Music of Woodstock

Relive the era with Classic Albums Live: Woodstock.

Dec. 14. Peace, love, and Woodstock. It was an event that brought people together to enjoy great music. If you experience a pang of nostalgia when you hear melodies by Joan Baez, Jimi Hendrix, or Janis Joplin, then this show is for you. Classic Albums Live: Woodstock is a tribute event showcasing hand-picked artists who perform the classics. This concert will give people the opportunity to relive a moment that defined a generation and enjoy the timeless tracks that only get better with age.

Weekend Roundup: Best Bets for December 9 to 11

Self-portrait entitled "Julie" by Julie LaPalme, whose work will be on view at Lemonjellow.

Friday, Dec. 9
If you’re looking for a fun holiday jam with a bit of an artsy twist, Lemonjellow’s weekend pARTy “Deck the Halls” is just the thing for you. Lemonjellow Productions is an art collective that aims to display art in all different sorts of ways. This weekend, the works of nine local artists will be on display and for sale at back-to-back holiday parties. The party starts at 8pm this Friday and lasts well into the night with the help of a DJ and some Christmas tunes. Bring a present to be re-gifted in support of Pink Triangle Youth, and leave with some great art priced $50-$300. A party runs Saturday at the same time, and a tamer cookies-and-coffee party is happening on Sunday.

If you’re looking to take a break from the holiday madness, take a road trip to Gananoque (about two hours away), where you can catch Robin Hood! A Children’s Holiday Pantomime. This beloved adventure story is being performed as a “panto” – a performance with a musical-comedy twist that has men playing women… and vice-versa! Some laughs, a fun road trip, a good time with family and friends, and a unique performance style – this outing has it all. Play runs until Dec. 23.

Saturday, Dec. 10
If you’re looking to broaden your cultural horizons beyond Santa Claus, come out to Carleton University’s campus on Saturday night. No, we’re not suggesting joining the students who are studying for exams; instead, check out Kala Tarang: An Evening of Indian Dance and Music, which is a concert highlighting the work of the students of Gharana Arts. Other performers include Kasturi Mishra, who will be performing traditional Kathak Nritya, and Udit Bhide and Ravi Singh, performing Sitar and Tabla Vadhya. Whether you are familiar with this style of dance or not, you will walk away with an increased knowledge of the rich cultural traditions of Indian performing arts.

As if the holidays don’t have enough temptation, the Ottawa Locavore Artisan Food Fair (LAFF) is back for a second year. This Saturday, 25 local food artisans will be coming together to sell their delicious products, including cookies, pies, cheeses, jams, chocolates, and more. Sample some products and choose your favourites to purchase as gifts or to take home for yourself. A silent auction of select products will raise money for the School Breakfast Program that feeds 11,000 children in Ottawa daily. So head out to delight your taste buds and support a good cause, as well. (more…)

Hot Entertainment: Sting

Singing sensation Sting

How better to celebrate a 25-year solo career than a North American tour? Catch Sting’s Back to Bass Tour, filled with stripped-down versions of all his hit songs, Dec. 8 to 10 at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.—Sheri Radford

More information:

8 pm. $51-$151.50. Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Hamilton St. at Dunsmuir. Tickets 1-855-985-5000.

Hot Dates: From Joy to Judy

Dec 9-11 Singer and daughter of legendary entertainer Judy Garland and producer Sid Luft, Lorna Luft teams up with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra for an evening of holiday joy. A Judy Garland Christmas: Songs My Mother Taught Me promises fabulous music, video scenes of Lorna and Judy together and Christmas cheer. Centennial Concert Hall, 555 Main St, 204-949-3999 for tickets.

Weekend Roundup: Best Bets for December 2 to 4

Minor Empire plays the National Arts Centre on Dec. 3.

Friday, Dec. 2
If you’re looking for something different and interesting, come check out Minor Empire, a Toronto-based band composed of Turkish and Canadian musicians. The band will be performing music from their debut album Second Nature, which brings together traditional Turkish music and electro-jazz. Minor Empire has received rave reviews and performed at the Sunfest World Music Festival and the Markham Jazz Festival. Catch them this Friday night, along with special guest Jane Bunnett.

The magic of The Nutcracker is coming to life this weekend at the National Arts Centre. The Pennsylvania Ballet will be performing the iconic show in the George Balanchine style, where children play the lead roles (with no allusion to romance between them) and the costumes and set design are gloriously rich. This holiday classic is sure to melt your heart and get you in the Christmas spirit. Show runs Thursday through Sunday with matinees on Saturday and Sunday.

Canadian choral music will be at its finest this weekend at Coro Vivo Ottawa’s concert,”Northern Lights.” This large, vibrant choir will celebrate the uniqueness of Canadian choral compositions by showcasing some of the finest. Among them are Eleanor Daly’s arrangement of the “Huron Carol” and Mark Sirett’s “Dormi Jesu.” If you’re a choir music aficionado, or just looking to enjoy some fine music for an evening, this concert is sure to please. Concerts on both Friday and Saturday.

Saturday, Dec. 3
It’s back! Head out to 101 Frames, the annual fundraising auction where people can bid on fascinating, one-of-a-kind artwork at Gallery 101. This is the fourth year with the theme “the seven deadly sins.” In past years, eager art-goers were able to see artists’ interpretations of wrath, pride, and lust — and now’s it’s gluttony’s turn. After the auction, people get to indulge in a groovy dance party and live entertainment. Gluttony never looked so good! (more…)

Weekend Picks: November 25-27

This weekend in Edmonton boasts an eclectic offering of events to keep you preoccupied with. Whether it be a night out delighting in the stylings of singer/songwriter Gordon Lightfoot, enjoying a belly full a laughs courtesy of Jon Lajoie or strolling down Whyte Avenue and taking in the sights of the special event Return of the Magic, you’re sure to find something to keep you busy this warm November weekend.

Friday, November 25

Image courtesy of David Bowering

This Friday marks the second last day of David Bowering’s Afghanistan Through My Lens exhibit at the Art Gallery of St. Albert. During a four-month imbed in the war-torn country as a photo journalist with the Canadian Forces, U.S. Army and Marines and 101 Airborne Medevac Units, Bowering chronicled his experiences. The result is a series of real, raw moments that offer a rare insight into a country, its people and the military mission that has encased it for nearly a decade. Art Gallery of St. Albert, free admission.

The classic Canadian imagery singer/songwriter Gordon Lightfoot is known to evoke makes him one of the country’s most celebrated artists and a cultural icon. Lightfoot’s Western Canada and Ontario tour lands him on Edmonton’s Jubilee stage, where he is sure to enchant audiences with the legendary music that has made him one of the most anticipated live Canadian performers to visit Edmonton this year. Jubilee Auditorium, tickets $65-$75.

Saturday, November 26

Canadian comedian, and all around funny man, Jon Lajoie got his start as an internet sensation and has since skyrocketed into stardom. Audiences are sure to leave Lajoie’s show in stitches, as his sidesplitting standup penetrates even the most somber of folk. Myer Horowitz Theatre, 29.50.

Popular 104 Street bakeshop Queen of Tarts is known for making some of the sweetest, and most heavenly, treats in town. Recently, the foodie favourite has started offering “pop up dinners”, a fun food experience that features a set menu from a special guest chef. Not normally open for dinner, the pop up dinners are a unique addition to the shops repertoire. Saturday’s menu includes, amongst other items, a rustic dish of roast chicken served over wilted greens and seasonal vegetables and a tart au chocolate for dessert. Yum! Queen of Tarts, $45.

Sunday, November 27

Image courtesy of Old Strathcona Business Association, Return of the Magic

It isn’t often that we get spring-like temperatures in November here in Edmonton, so why waste the beautiful weather being cooped up in doors? Take a stroll down Whyte Avenue and enjoy the ecclectic shops the district has to offer. Stop by Whyte favourites such as Block 1912 and grab a steaming hot London Fog, or the Princess Theatre for a little afternoon cinema. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, drop in at one of the many restaurants that line the historic avenue. While you’re out and about on Whyte, be sure to take in the Old Strathcona Business Association’s Return of the Magic, where you’ll discover nine fully restored vintage Christmas window displays located in various shop windows from 100^th to 105^th Street. Check out the You Are Here section of the latest Where Edmonton magazine to read more about Return of the Magic and to scope out other great Whyte Avenue hot spots. http://www.myvirtualpaper.com/doc/where-edmonton/where1111opt/2011110101/#18.

Weekend Roundup: Best Bets for November 25 to 27

Check out the screening of "Billy Bishop Goes to War," on at the Canadian War Museum.

Friday, Nov. 25
The film that received rave reviews at this fall’s Toronto International Film Festival is now coming to Ottawa. Billy Bishop Goes to War, the film based on the two-man stage play of the same name by John Gray and Eric Peterson, is being screened at the Canadian War Museum. This updated version — still featuring the same two men — now features an aged Bishop, a WWI flying ace veteran reflecting on his time in the war with music and humour. Both Gray and Peterson play an array of characters and have been warmly received ever since the stage play first debuted in 1978. Catch the film until Sunday.

Whether your taste in art is widespread or more specific to a certain style, odds are you’ll find something you like at SAW Gallery’s Sketch holiday fundraiser. This annual event has over 175 participating artists this year, so guaranteed there is something for everyone. And with works of art starting at only $10, you might even be able to get your Christmas shopping done – and give original gifts to boot. The fundraiser goes well into the night and features some great musical acts as well as artists, so why not make an evening of it? (more…)

Hot Entertainment: Pius Cheung

Pius Cheung

Chinese-Canadian virtuoso Pius Cheung makes marimba magic during Wednesday Noon Hours at the UBC School of Music (Nov. 23).—Sheri Radford

More information:

UBC SCHOOL OF MUSIC Barnett Wednesday Noon Hours (Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30). 12 pm. $5. Jazz Ensemble II (Nov 3). 12 pm. Free. UBC Guitar Ensembles (Nov 18). 12 pm. Free. Scholarship Winners Concert (Nov 20). 3 pm. Free. UBC Composers’ Concerts (Nov 21). 12 pm. Free. Early Music Ensembles (Nov 23-24). W 8 pm, Th 12 pm. Free. Contemporary Players (Nov 25). 12 pm. Free. Soundings: Music of David Crumb (Nov 27). 2 pm. Free. UBC Percussion Ensemble (Nov 28). 12 pm. Free. Electro Acoustic Music (Nov 29). 8 pm. Free. Barnett Hall, 6361 Memorial Rd. 604-822-0182. www.music.ubc .ca

Weekend Roundup: Best Bets for November 18 to 20

Friday, Nov. 18
Winter may be on its way, but the good news is that so is the Signatures Show. This event showcases gifts by Canada’s best artisans and designers, who display a plethora of goods, including art, home décor, beauty products, fashion, gourmet treats, and jewellery. Be sure to check out the daily fashion shows, custom perfume by Aromachology, and Grandma Deb’s Fruitcake, which was one of the wedding gifts sent to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The show started on Tuesday and runs until Sunday.

The longest running “mobile guitar festival” in North America is coming to Ottawa this Friday. At International Guitar Night at the Shenkman Arts Centre, you will be treated to performances by guitarists from California, Scotland, Brazil, and Madagascar. This showcase of international talent is not one to miss!

Would you like a medium latte with a small painting on the side? At the fall fundraiser for the Ottawa School of Art, Small Medium Large, you can place that order! The evening is café themed, selling coffee and baked goods, as well works of art all priced as small, medium, or large. The event, which raises money for outreach programs, bursaries, and new studio equipment, also features live entertainment from DJ Spade and M. Parker Jazz Quartet.

Greg Cockerill performs Saturday night at D'Arcy McGee's.

Saturday, Nov. 19
If you’re in the mood for some vintage rock-and-roll with a Canadian vibe, head to D’Arcy McGee’s in Orleans on Saturday evening to catch the CBC-acclaimed Greg Cockerill Band. Cockerill and his younger brother Joshua collaborated on the new album, Festuca, which they are currently promoting on tour across Canada. The band is making this one stop in Ottawa—and you don’t want to miss them. (more…)

Hot Dates: 5 for music lovers

Finger 11.

November 18: Canadian rockers Finger Eleven, best know for hits like “One Thing” and “Paralyzer,” perform at Casino Nova Scotia on Upper Water Street.
November 26: The Dartmouth Community Concert Association hosts the multi-talented Rhapsody Quintet at Woodlawn United Church. The ensemble performs light classical, salon, musical theatre, movie music, jazz, tango, klezmer and more.
November 27: Soft-rock dreamboat James Blunt, best known for “You’re Beautiful” and “Goodbye My Lover,” makes a rare visit to the Halifax Metro Centre.
December 4: Performing in Halifax for the first time, the Mastan Group offers an “uplifting, mesmerizing” performance of Persian music.
December 9: New Orleans music legend Dr. John (joined by the Lower 911 band) rocks Casino Nova Scotia.

Hot Date: Little Miss Higgins

Image courtesy of The Arden Theatre

November 10

Fusing sounds of old-time jazz, blues and folk into her music, this Alberta born singer-songwriter draws inspiration from artists like Billie Holiday, Memphis Minnie and Joni Mitchell. Her charming on-stage personality and creative songwriting has won her a devout fan base and a number of awards and nominations. The Arden, $36.60; call 780-451-8000 for tickets.

Hot Entertainment: Gigantic Success

They Might Be Giants photo by Joshua Kessler

It’s been a busy 30 years for alt-rockers They Might Be Giants. The inventors of 1990s-phenomenon Dial-A-Song—an answering machine that played back recorded songs to the caller—have released 15 albums. The band’s foray into children’s music earned them a second Grammy following the award they took home for “Boss of Me,” the theme song to TV’s Malcolm in the Middle. See the Brooklyn-based band at an adults-only show at Venue (Nov. 8).—Kristina Urquhart

More information:

VENUE They Might Be Giants (Nov 8). 8 pm. $28. 881 Granville St. 604-646-0064. Tickets 1-855-985-5000. www.venuelive.ca