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SURREY EVENTS: Afro-Cuban grooves of OKAN in concert, Boney M. & more

A guide to Surrey-area events, entertainment and attractions
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OKAN, a Canadian Afro-Cuban jazz group led by Elizabeth Rodriguez and Magdelys Savigne, will perform Friday night (Nov. 17) at Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage, in another concert presented by Surrey Civic Theatres. For more details see listing under Concerts. (Contributed photo)

THEATRE/STAGE

“Hilda’s Yard” play written by Norm Foster staged by Pivot Theatre Company at Bethany-Newton United Church Nov. 16-18 and Nov. 23-25. “Hilda Fluck is ready for she and her husband to be empty nesters. Their children have other ideas.” Tickets $25 each and $20 for students/seniors (plus GST). Note: “We are only able to accept cash payments at the venue - this includes 50/50 tickets, concession, and tickets at the door.” pivottheatre.ca.

“Raju Raja Ram Aur Main,” a play in Hindi starring Sharman Joshi on Canadian tour, Friday, Nov. 17 at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre, presented by Sapphire Events & Vishwas Management in association with Star Entertainment. Tickets $45-$70, bellperformingartscentre.com, 604-507-6355.

“Puss in Boots”: Pantomime production staged by Fraser Valley Musical Theatre at Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage from Wednesday, Nov. 22 to Sunday, Dec. 3 (select dates and times). Show info on fvmt.org/coming, tickets at tickets.surrey.ca or call 604-501-5566.

FESTIVALS

Bear Creek Lights shines bright in 11th season at the Surrey park, Nov. 3-17. Explore a one-kilometre walking loop adorned with enchanting light displays. Free but requires tickets for entry, 4:30 to 9:00 p.m., timed entry every 30 minutes. Select nights will also feature food trucks and family-friendly activities. No event Nov. 11. To book tickets call 604-501-5050, visit surrey.ca/bearcreeklights.

Surrey Tree Lighting Festival & Holiday Market returns to Surrey Civic Plaza for two days, Nov. 25-26, featuring live music, dance and more on four stages, photos with Santa, expanded market, amusement rides and light displays. Tree will be lit Saturday and the festival will extend into Sunday (tree on display until January). Performers, schedule and more: surreytreelighting.ca.

CONCERTS

OKAN in concert Friday, Nov. 17 at Main Stage of Surrey Arts Centre, 13750 88 Ave., presented by Surrey Civic Theatres. “Need a show where the whole mood is glee? OKAN are violinist and vocalist Elizabeth Rodriguez and percussionist and vocalist Magdelys Savigne. These Grammy and Latin Grammy nominees are the perfect powerhouse duo,” with band here. Info: Tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

Boney M: Disco-era group tours to Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre on Sunday, Nov. 19, featuring songs such as “Daddy Cool,” “Sunny,” “Rasputin,” and “Rivers of Babylon.” Tickets start at $75 on bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355.

“Tina Turner Show” starring singer Luisa Marshall at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre, Sunday, Nov. 26. “As seen on Oprah and ELLEN, World Rock N Roll Tribute Artist Champion Luisa Marshall performs her spectacular show with her band.” Tickets $49/$59, bellperformingartscentre.com, 604-507-6355.

Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir in “A Ringing, Singing Christmas” Tuesday, Dec. 5, Main Stage At Surrey Arts Centre, 13750 88 Ave., a Surrey Civic Theatres presentation with music director Jonathan Quick, pianist Karen Lee-Morlang. “A Surrey holiday tradition for more than 30 years, Vancouver Welsh Men Choir’s shows are always filled with joy, humour and the magic of the season.” Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566

FILM

Silent Film Club: Science Fiction: “Three classics viewed inside the Victorian farmhouse,” Friday, Nov. 17 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Historic Stewart Farm, 13723 Crescent Road. “Join us for an evening of films and conversation as we revisit some forgotten sci-fi favorites from the silent film era. Popcorn included. For ages 13+. Films are Hotel Electrique, A Trip to the Moon, Metropolis (presented by Giorgio Moroder).Fee is $12.05/person, 604-591-4627, stewartfarm@surrey.ca, 604-501-5100.

DANCE

“Dance Into Christmas” show presented by New Westminster Symphony Orchestra and Richmond Academy of Dance, on Friday, Dec. 1 at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre. “A festive celebration of all things Christmas that ran for 20 consecutive years starting in the year 2000.” Tickets $43, bellperformingartscentre.com, 604-507-6355.

“The Nutcracker”: Royal City Youth Ballet returns to Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage with pre-Christmas performances Dec. 9-10 (four show times) featuring a cast of 100+ dancers under the direction of Keitha Campeau, music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, sets designed by Jean Claude Olivier, costumes by Chris Sinosich. Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

MUSEUMS

Museum of Surrey: At 17710 56A Ave., Cloverdale. Info: Surrey.ca/museum, 604-592-6956. “Everything is Still Awesome” LEGO exhibit, to March 2024; also “Connecting Generations: Legacy Project,” to Dec. 23.

ARTS

Surrey Muse: Interdisciplinary art and literature presentation group meets on fourth Friday of each month except December (5:30-8:30 p.m.). Gatherings feature an author, a poet and an artist/performer at varying levels of artistic development, followed by an Open Mic session. Virtual gatherings continue for now. Info: surreymuse.wordpress.com, facebook.com/surreymuse.

GALLERIES

Surrey Art Gallery: Multiple galleries at Bear Creek Park, 88 Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery. “Swapnaa Tamhane: No Surface is Neutral,” to Nov. 26; “Kampala to Canada,” to Jan. 28; “all roses sleep (inviolate light)” video, to Dec. 4.

Newton Cultural Centre features works by local artists at 13530 72 Ave., at venue of the Arts Council of Surrey. For calendar visit artscouncilofsurrey.ca, or call 604-594-2700.

Thursday Artist Talks: Events hosted by Surrey Art Gallery Association (SAGA) on the first Thursday of every month, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info: 604-501-5566, Arts.surrey.ca. On Facebook.surreyartgalleryassociation. Dec. 7: Lyn Verra-Lay, “Green Art Practices.”

CRAFT FAIRS

Christmas craft fair at Northwood United church in Fleetwood on Nov. 19, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with arts, crafts, food, prizes, thrift shop, 8855 156 St., Surrey. Info: Marilyn Bargen, 604-839-4004.

COMEDY

Yuk Yuk’s comedy club at Elements Casino Surrey, with shows Friday/Saturday at 17755 60 Ave., Cloverdale. For calendar and tickets, visit yukyuks.com/surrey or call 1-800-899-9136, ext. 0.

BARS/NIGHTLIFE

Donegal’s Irish House: Live music and more at 12054 96th Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-584-2112, donegals.pub.

Whalley Legion’s Vimy Lounge: Live music Friday-Sunday and Tuesday karaoke at #102-10626 City Parkway, Surrey. Info: (604) 582-0697, whalleylegion.org.

Dublin Crossing: Live music on stage at 18789 Fraser Hwy. 604-575-5470, online at Dublincrossing.com.

Mojitos: Latin music and more at The Turf Hotel, by bands and DJs, 12411 King George Blvd. Info: 778-223-6936, facebook.com/mojitosurrey.

Taphouse Guildford: Music/sports bar, 15330 102A Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-583-8828, Thetaphouse.ca. DJ Paul the Wall (Fri./Sat.).

Brewster’s Pub: Live music Saturday nights at 7380 King George Blvd. No cover. Info: brewsterspub.ca, facebook.com/BrewstersPub.

MOVIES

Landmark Cinemas 12 Guildford: 15051 101 Ave. 604-581-1716, Info: Landmarkcinemas.com.

Strawberry Hill Cineplex: 12161 72 Ave., Surrey. 604-501-9400, cineplex.com.

FLEA MARKET

The Cloverdale Market: “Your Weekly Treasure Hunt” in two buildings with 200 tables and 100+ outdoor spots, open every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, off 176 St. (Hwy 15) and 62 Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-837-1676, Cloverdalemarket.ca.

AWARDS

7th Surrey Arts & Business Awards on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 11:30 a.m, at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel, hosted by Surrey Board of Trade. “BC Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Lana Popham, will join us and share her ministry’s support to BC’s creative industry, specifically in Surrey. Also, former Vancouver Canucks defenceman and Assistant Director of Player Personnel, David Babych, will share his career’s highlights.” Tickets: businessinsurrey.com.

BUSINESS

Kevin Falcon, B.C. Opposition Leader, to speak at Surrey Board of Trade event Tuesday, Nov. 21, at Civic Hotel, 11:30 a.m., to discuss “everything from his economic vision to taxation, healthcare, climate change, clean energy, transportation and everything in between.” Tickets/info: businessinsurrey.com.

NATURE

Super Spawn-tastic Salmon events Tynehead Regional Park (for ages 9+) on Nov. 17-18 hosted by Metro Vancouver. “Hike through a lush rainforest to find out how salmon are specially adapted to survive their incredible journey home up waterfalls and past predators.” Fee $5/$10, registration required. Info: metrovancouver.org, call 604-432-6359.

Nature Work Parties: “Help care for Surrey parks by removing invasive plant species, cleaning up litter, and enhancing habitat within the park. Remove invasive plant species, clean up litter, and enhance habitat within the park. Tools and training are provided. Bring your family and friends; all ages are welcome.” For info and dates, visit surrey.ca/news-events/events/nature-work-parties.

LIBRARIES

Authors Among Us: Surrey Libraries hosts local authors for online Q & A sessions. For a detailed calendar of events/authors, visit surreylibraries.ca/events.

WORKSHOPS

Empower Surrey Parent Workshops are back this fall, until Nov. 18 at various locations in city. “Parents and caregivers can attend the free, two-hour, in-person workshops to learn how to recognize and respond to warning signs for gang involvement, minimize the chance of gang recruitment and build stronger relationships with their children.” Registration is required. Dates, locations: empowersurrey.ca/parentworkshops.

The Network to Eliminate Violence in Relationships (NEVR) is offering free 3-hour online workshops every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am-12pm, 1pm-4pm. “The goal of the workshop is to learn to identify different types of abuse, support survivors of abuse and learn how to find additional supports and resources for survivors of abuse.” Email nevr@kpu to register for a free VIP workshop. Info: 604-599-2267.

KIDS/YOUTH

MYzone and MYgame After School Drop-in Programs run from October to June at seven locations across Surrey. “These fun programs provide children ages 8-12 the opportunity to explore a variety of activities during critical after-school hours in a safe and fully supervised environment.” MYzone and MYgame are included with the purchase of a MY Fun Pass or annual children’s pass, via City of Surrey. To register for MYzone and MYgame without the purchase of a MY Fun Pass, a one-time fee of $27.75 per child and $16.75 per child, applies respectively. Info: surrey.ca/activities-parks-recreation/recreation-programs/children-age-6-to-12/mygame-after-school-drop-in-program.

WALKS/RUNS

Guided Nature Walks at Surrey Nature Centre on Nov. 18 and 25, Dec. 9. “Join a Surrey Nature Centre team member for in-person guided walks to learn about nature and the diversity of Green Timbers Urban Forest. Walks are designed for all ages and will go rain or shine.” 604-501-5100.

Surrey Trekkers Volksport Club: “A friendly walking club where everyone is welcome. We have a proud heritage as an associate of International Volkssporting with regularly scheduled walks throughout the Lower Mainland.” Walks are on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, most statutory holidays. Info: surreytrekkers.com.

Surrey Walks Together: City hall initiative encourages residents to “reconnect with others while walking to improve both mental and physical health.” Meeting locations are posted to Surrey Walks website (surrey.ca/parks-recreation/surrey-walks) along with other walking resources including trail maps, information on self-guided walks, walking groups, charity walks and more.

SENIORS

Surrey Leadership Series: Opportunities of the Longevity (Senior) Economy event hosted by Surrey Board of Trade, Thursday, Nov. 23 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel (15269 104 Ave, Surrey), 8:15 a.m. start. Free, pre-registration is required, businessinsurrey.com or by emailing info@businessinsurrey.com.

Senior’s bingo every Saturday from 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre in Whalley. Cards are 25 cents each. Telephone registration is required: 604-598-5898.

Surrey Singles Over Sixty: “We are a group that meet for dinners, card games, bowling, dancing, picnics etc. We are based in the North Surrey/North Delta area. New members (fully vaccinated) are welcome.” Call Georgie at 604-585-7304 or Bob at 778-545-5350.

TALK (Third Age Learning at Kwantlen): Program promises “creative and stimulating educational activities” for the 50-plus age group in Surrey and surrounding cities, with a mix of in-person and online events. TALK courses are “ideal for retirees who want to continue learning.” Fees range from $15 to $30, plus $10 annual membership fee. Info: kpu.ca/talk, 604-599-3077.

Seniors Centre Without Walls: Join various presenters for telephone-based exercises, literature or coffee clubs, learning mindfulness or estate planning. View details for information about the Seniors’ Centre Without Walls initiative by Seniors Come Share Society and register by calling 604-531-9400 ext. 205 or scww@comeshare.ca.

ATTRACTIONS

Surreys Heritage Rail: One-hour rides start at Cloverdale Station. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to be able to enjoy all the rides. The adventure is accessible. Parking is available at the station, at 17630 / Highway 10. Info: fvhrs.org.

Bear Creek Park Train and MiniGolf: Mini train rides through the forest at Surrey’s largest park, 13750 88 Ave. For hours and rates, call 604-501-1232 or visit bctrains.com.

SPORTS

Surrey Knights: Junior A hockey games at North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex, 10950 126A St., in PJHL league action. Home games Thursdays, 7 p.m. Schedule: surreyknights.ca.

Surrey Eagles: Junior hockey games at South Surrey Arena. For schedule and tickets, visit surreyeagles.ca or call 604-531-GOAL (4625).

HEALTH

Surrey No Longer Alone Nar-Anon Family Group (for people affected by someone else’s drug use) in-person meetings on Monday evenings, from 7-8 p.m. at Bethany-Newton United Church, 14853 60 Ave., Surrey. Entrance at north side of the church.

Recovery Canada: “We are a free, in-person, self-help support group for people experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. In-person meeting Tuesdays 1:30-3pm at St. Cuthbert Anglican Church, 11601 82 Ave, Delta BC. For more info contact Anita at anitaendorse@gmail.com or 604-788-4633. The virtual meeting will continue Thursdays 7-8:30 pm. Contact Gilles at gilber005@yahoo.ca for more info, or visit RecoveryCanada.ca.

Surrey Prostate Cancer Support Group meetings on last Saturday of month at Valley View Memorial Gardens 14644 72 Ave., Surrey (no meetings July and December). “Everyone is invited who are interested in knowing more about prostate cancer. Coffee & cookies provided. Call 604 594-5257.”

EDUCATION

READ Surrey/White Rock Society’s Partners Program offers free, one-to-one tutoring for adults who want reading, writing or math support. “If you or someone you know needs literacy help, call Shanti at 778-242-7323 or email readswrs@gmail.com.” Info at readsurreywhiterock.com.

GROUPS

Surrey Air Cadets: 278 Cormorant RCACS, launched in 2017, welcomes new members aged 12-18. “We parade (train) on Tuesday Evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. from September to June of each year,” at Princess Margaret Secondary School, 12870 72 Ave, Surrey. Info: surreycadets.ca, 778-832-0278.

CALLS

Peace Arch Chorus: A capella group rehearses at Newton Cultural Centre under direction of Elvera Collier and assistant director Bev Feick. “Auditioned members are provided with excellent musical education and vocal coaching.” Chorus welcomes women to join. Info: peacearchchorus.ca.

Aequitas Singers: ”Located in Surrey, Aequitas Singers is an adult-only, non-auditioned choir that sings to bring hope, to raise awareness of social justice issues, and to have fun.” New singers can attend rehearsals Tuesdays at 7 p.m.; for details, email aequitassingerschoir@gmail.com. Info: aequitassingers.ca.

Soundscape A Capella Chorus: A mixed-voice, auditioned community chorus for adults. Rehearsals Tuesday evenings at Fraser Heights Secondary, Surrey. Info: soundscapesings.ca/auditions.

Handel Society Choir invites new members. Rehearsals are Tuesdays 7.30 p.m. at Cloverdale Canadian Reformed Church, on 174 Street and 60 Avenue. Soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices wanted.” Phone 604 202 7801 for information.

Westcoast Harmony Chorus: Group rehearses in Surrey at Parkland Community Church (9574 160th St.) on Wednesday evenings, 7 p.m. “A group of women and people of marginalized genders who love to sing and are personally committed to excellence and lasting friendships.” New members sought. Visit westcoastsings.com for info.

South Fraser Community Band welcomes new members, particularly needing brass/horns. Rehearsals Thursdays 7:30-9:30 p.m., September to June, at Earl Marriott Secondary, 15751 16 Ave. Email Membership@sfcb.ca, visit sfcb.ca.

VOLUNTEERS

Bell Performing Arts Centre seeks new volunteers. “Our volunteers gain experience in box office sales, ushering, concession sales, working with the public, and more. Get a backstage view of the arts in your community. Learn about teamwork, and experience the joy of giving something back to your community. Volunteers of various ages and all cultural backgrounds welcome.” For info call 604-507-6355. Application form on bellperformingartscentre.com.

Volunteer Cancer Drivers organization needs drivers in Surrey and other cities. Anyone wishing to become a volunteer driver can find more information at volunteercancerdrivers.ca.

Community Thrift Store: “Can you spare 4 hours a day to volunteer at Newton’s Community Thrift Store, a joint project of Surrey Hospice Society and Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society?” At 7138 King George Blvd. Call Donna at 604-599-9930 or visit shscommunitythriftstore.com/volunteer to learn more.

Surrey Art Gallery docent program seeks volunteers to lead weekday school group tours of contemporary art exhibitions. Visit “Volunteering at the Gallery” page on surrey.ca/artgallery or contact Chris Dawson-Murphy, Volunteer Coordinator, artsvolunteer@surrey.ca, 604-501-5198.

READ Surrey/White Rock Society is recruiting volunteer adult literacy tutors for their fall training. Info: readsurreywhiterock.com.

Fraser Health Crisis Line is marking 50 years of operation this year; that’s 50 years of 24/7 service delivered by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, contact the Fraser Health Crisis Line: options.bc.ca/volunteer-at-options.



Tom Zillich

About the Author: Tom Zillich

I cover entertainment, sports and news stories for the Surrey Now-Leader, where I've worked for more than half of my 30-plus years in the newspaper business.
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