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SURREY EVENTS: Circus from Montreal sparks interest + festivals, concerts and more

A guide to Surrey-area events and attractions, for May 25
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Montreal’s Cirque Kalabanté brings a “Won’Ma Africa” circus performance to Surrey Arts Centre this weekend during the Surrey Spark Stages series of shows for kids and families, May 26-28. Details and tickets: surrey.ca/spark, or call 604-501-5566. See listing under Festivals. (Submitted photo)

THEATRE/STAGE

“Steel Magnolias”: Naked Stage Readers Theatre company brings Robert Harling script to stage June 2-4 at Newton Cultural Centre, Surrey. “‘Steel Magnolias’ explores the relationship and bonds between a group of women in a small-town southern community. At once funny and poignant this play explores love and loss in a close knit group of vastly different characters.” Info/tickets: nspsociety.com/upcoming-shows.

“The Addams Family: A New Musical” staged by Fraser Valley Musical Theatre at Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage from June 29 to July 9, with seven show times. “It is a special night for The Addams Family, the only night of the year that their ancestors return from beyond the grave to celebrate what it means to be an Addams.” Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

COMMUNITY

Community Fair Fest: On Saturday, May 27, Climate Recentered, the City of Surrey, Solid State Community Industries and Surrey School district host a community festival noon to 6 p.m. at Guildford Park Secondary School (10707 146 St.). “A family-friendly community celebration with performances and art from BIPOC artists, games and activities, free/affordable clothing, free food, stalls for local food entrepreneurs, space for community dialogues and organizing and access to booths for community services and organizations.” Climate Recentered is a group of “4 Asian femme who aim to recenter the historically white-centered environmentalist to center joy, community organizing, and BIPOC lived experiences.”

FUNDRAISERS

“Drag Out Your Friends”: Pivot Theatre, in collaboration with Surrey Pride, presents a family friendly drag performance Tuesday, June 6 at Royal Oak Restaurant (15336 Fraser Hwy., Surrey) in Surrey. Hosted by Aria Treble, performances by Weebee, Abeiya Miraj, Isabella, Heathen, Jolene Queen Sloan, Myria Le Noir. After May 25, tickets are $45. Dinner reservations are available starting at 4 p.m., show starts at 6. Tickets and info: pivottheatre.

FESTIVALS

Surrey Spark Stages shows for kids and families May 26-28 at Surrey Arts Centre, Bear Creek Park. “Shows and activities designed to ignite imaginations and make memories,” starting with dance party May 26, plus five stage shows. Details and tickets: surrey.ca/spark, or call 604-501-5566.

“Block Party Surrey” hosted by Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival June 3-4 at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, featuring 20+ food trucks, beer garden, live entertainment and local market, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Free admission. Info: greatervanfoodtruckfest.com.

Car-Free Day Surrey: Community festival returns to Newton on Saturday, June 10 from noon to 8 p.m., on 137 Street. Free of cars, the Newton BIA-hosted event aims to promote active transportation, focused on families and the promotion of local business. Info: 604-593-2294, newtonbia.com/car-free-day.

5X Fest: Events in Surrey and Vancouver will see people “walk through the portal into a world of South Asian creativity” from June 11-18, with music, visual art, storytelling, fashion, culture and more, including a popular Block Party June 17 at Surrey Civic Plaza. Also, the 5X Art Party at Surrey Art Gallery on June 18. Info: 5xfest.com.

CONCERTS

“The Rocket Man/The Piano Man”: Musical tributes to Elton John and Billy Joel in concert Saturday, May 27 at Chandos Pattison Auditorium, Surrey (Fraser Heights). Presented by Moon Coin Productions. For tickets and info, visit vtixonline.com or call 1-888-961-6111. Show info: iLoveEltonJohn.com.

Canada Chinese Performing Arts Society’s 15th annual celebration Wednesday, May 31 at Surrey Arts Centre featuring ancient Chinese music, Han Music traditional collection, CD release and more. Tickets are $30, $25 for students. Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

“Love Can Build a Bridge“: Aequitas Singers concert to support 3 local non- profit organizations, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 3 at Northwood United Church (8855 156 St., Fleetwood), featuring “an eclectic mix of songs that are uplifting, inspirational, and thoroughly entertaining.” Concert Beneficiaries are Read Surrey White Rock Society, Phoenix Society Treatment Services & Programs Society, and Pathfinder Youth Society. Free parking at venue. Tickets are $20/$15 on https://buytickets.at/aequitassingers/901556.

“Queen: It’s A Kinda Magic” concert production at Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage on Tuesday, June 6, featuring the music of Queen. Tickets and info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

ABRA Cadabra: A Tribute to ABBA at Bell Performing Arts centre on June 14, 7: 30 p.m., featuring a live band, powerful vocals, dancers and costumes, via Moon Coin Productions. Show info and tickets: iloveabba.com, bellperformingartscentre.com, 604-507-6355.

Jazz Vespers in the Valley concerts at Northwood United Church in Fleetwood on select Sundays, 3:30 p.m. Suggested donation $10. For schedule visit northwood-united.org or call 604-581-8454. Church at 8855 156 St., Surrey. May 28: Sharon Minemoto; June 11: Bryn Kinders.

DANCE

“The Sleeping Beauty”: Coastal City Ballet brings the timeless tale to Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage on Friday, June 9, at 13750 88 Ave. “Classical ballet’s greatest masterpiece is a world premiere for Coastal City Ballet and another significant addition to its repertoire,” with a cast of 50 dancers. Everyone, including children of any age, requires a ticket. Children of school age qualify for the student pricing. Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

“She’s So Fierce”: Panorama Dance company performance June 3-4 at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre. “A celebration of strong, historic and glass shattering women who have paved the way for a brighter, more equal tomorrow. Dancers will pay homage to these women through their inspiring and creative movement.” Info: bellperformingartscentre.com, 604-507-6355.

Mi-Cher Dance Academy presents “The Candy Adventure,” June 11 at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre. “From age 3-18, every student has a part to tell in this storybook coming to life.” Info: bellperformingartscentre.com, 604-507-6355.

“Elements: Spiral Dance” shows June 17-18 at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre. Tickets sold starting June 1 on bellperformingartscentre.com, 604-507-6355.

FILM

“Emergence: Out of the Shadows” documentary filmscreening Saturday, June 10 at Centre Stage (Surrey City Hall), 2 p.m. start. A Surrey Civic Theatres presentation for Pride month, with pre-show photo slide, post-show Q&A. Film focuses on South Asian adults who grew up gay. “For Kayden, Jag, and Amar, awakening to and expressing their sexuality within conservative South Asian families was a lonely and terrifying experience.” Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

STORYTELLING

“The Rainbow Flame” Pride storytelling event Saturday, June 10 starting at 7 p.m. at Centre Stage at Surrey City Hall, 13450 104 Ave. A Surrey Civic Theatres presentation. “A raft of diverse, talented, new, and established storytellers from the LGBTQ2S+ community will share part of their lives, all with some original music stirred in.” Hosted by Deb Williams, for audiences 16+. Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

MUSEUMS

Museum of Surrey: At 17710 56A Ave., Cloverdale. Info: Surrey.ca/museum, 604-592-6956. Community Treasures exhibit is focused on the history of Surrey Little Theatre, also “Weaving Cultural Identities” exhibit spring 2023.

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

“Family Sunday” event at Surrey Art Gallery June 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with focus on spring exhibitions. “Try new activities and see a live performance in the Studio Theatre.” Surrey.ca/artgallery.

Surrey Art Gallery: Multiple galleries at Bear Creek Park, 88 Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery. “Masi Medicine: Joyful Nourishment,” to June 18; “Charles Campbell: An Ocean to Livity,” to June 4; “ARTS 2023,” to Aug. 13.

5X Art Party debuts at Surrey Art Gallery on Sunday, June 18, 4 to 9 p.m., as part of the 5X Festival, “bringing together some of the most exciting artists that Metro Vancouver’s South Asian art scene has to offer.” Tickets: 5xfest.com.

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. June 1: Aaron S. Moran: “All Play and No Work.”

GALAS

Sher Vancouver’s 15th-anniversary DESI-Q Cultural Gala, a celebration of LGBTQ+ South Asian culture and community, on Saturday, July 8. “We’ll be celebrating our incredible journey over the past 15 years at the beautiful Bollywood Banquet Hall in Surrey.” Info: eventbrite.ca/e/601071490007, also shervancouver.com.

CAREERS

Surrey RCMP and the BC RCMP Recruiting Team is hosting “a unique career information session in which applicants will have the opportunity to start the application process on site,” Saturday June 3 at 14355 57 Ave., Surrey. 11 a.m.: Career Information Session; 2 p.m.: Application Workshop & Mandatory Career Presentation. Pre-registration is required. Info: eventbrite.com/e/rcmp-career-information-session-tickets-634777365187.

CRAFT FAIRS

Spring Craft Fair Saturday, May 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Northwood United Church, Fleetwood, 8855 156 St. “Great selection of vendors and concession.” Info: 604-954-0600.

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.

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.

COMMUNITY

Surrey’s Disposal Days from May 12-30, when residents can drop off their recycling, garbage and household items for free or discounted rates at both the new Central Surrey and North Surrey Recycling and Waste centres. Proof of residency required, limit of one trip per household. Commercial and business vehicles not permitted. For details, visit surrey.ca/disposaldays, call 604-590-7289.

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

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.

SENIORS

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

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

Champion of the Crescent: Paddleboarding event July 22 at Blackie Spit Park (Crescent Beach) is a fundraiser in support of youth mental health at Surrey Memorial Hospital. “A fun and meaningful way for businesses and their employees to give back to the community. It’s a summer day at the beach, perfect for corporate team building and making memories together.” Info for registration: surreyhospitalsfoundation.com.

2023 Canadian Ultimate Championships at Newton Athletic Park from Aug. 13-20. Event promises “top-tier competition, workshops, skills clinics, and additional activities for participants and spectators alike.” For more information, visit the tournament website at cuc2023.ultimatecentral.com.

Run Surrey Run: Registration has opened for the 2023 event at Holland Park on Sept. 10, with 5K/10K routes for walkers and runners, with emphasis on fun and fitness. Info: RunSurreyRun.com.

BUSINESS

Surrey Board of Trade hosts Business in Surrey Breakfast on Wednesday, June 7. “Hear from our newest members and our partners, network with guests, and engage with the Surrey business community, 7:30 a.m. start at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel (15269 104 Ave). RSVP on businessinsurrey.com.

“Regional Economic Activity Lunch” with local mayors Brad West and George Harvie in event hosted by Surrey Board of Trade on June 9 at Civic Hotel (13475 Central Ave.). “They will share updates on regional transportation and strategic plans for the region and respond to your questions.” Info: businessinsurrey.com.

BC Economic Plan event with Ministers Brenda Bailey and Jagrup Brar hosted by Surrey Board of Trade luncheon June 22 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel. The event will also feature the induction of our new Board Chair, Rory Morgan of KSW Lawyers, along with several new and returning Board Directors. “You will hear a recap of the Surrey Board of Trade’s ever-increasing strength this past year and our vision for the future.” Info: businessinsurrey.com.

NATURE

Surrey’s Environmental Extravaganza events April to June. “A seven-week series of free family-friendly events and programs that celebrate nature in Surrey. Explore at your own pace with self-guided activities or take part in group activities such as walks, talks, hands-on stewardship programs, stories and more.” Info: surrey.ca/extravaganza.

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.

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.

WALKS/RUNS

5K Foam Fest obstacle course fun run June 17 on Cloverdale Fairgrounds.”Rock out all day to awesome music, enjoy a free kids zone for kids 6 and under, taste delicious food, shop from local vendors and celebrate your success in our well-stocked beer garden.” Info: raceroster.com.

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.

CALLS

Peace Arch Chorus: A capella group celebrates 50th anniversary this year. Rehearsals are 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 accepts new members. Rehearsals Thursdays 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Earl Marriott Secondary, 15751 16 Ave. “Email Membership@sfcb.ca to let us know you’re interested.” Info: sfcb.ca.

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.”

VOLUNTEERS

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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