By Times Chronicle Staff
Venables Theatre is celebrating a major milestone of 10 years of serving local communities as a unique centre for the performing arts with the 10th Anniversary Showcase on Saturday evening.
“The evening will feature performances from a lineup of incredible local talent, including musical acts, dance performances, and heartfelt contributions from local dignitaries,” the theatre said.
The event is open to all, with admission by donation, and all proceeds will go to support the Oliver Food Bank.
Bob Park, a longtime music educator and performer in the South Okanagan, will bring his mastery of classical guitar to the stage. With a background that spans jazz and rock, Bob’s musical journey took him from touring with bands in the 1970s to studying music at UBC and later learning from guitar legends like Paco Peña in Spain.
At the showcase, Park will perform captivating pieces of Spanish baroque music on his classical guitar, a treat for music lovers of all ages.
Deepika Brar, a multi-talented Grade 10 student from Southern Okanagan Secondary School (SOSS), will dazzle audiences with her performance of Kathak, a classical Indian dance form.
Deepika, who also excels as an athlete and ambassador for the town of Oliver, has been practicing traditional Indian dance forms for over 10 years. She recently began sharing her passion for Bhangra with local youth and is excited to present her carefully choreographed Kathak routine at this milestone event.
Kxansulaxw Hall, a Syilx Traditional Drummer and member of the Osoyoos Indian Band, will share songs that honour the land, his ancestors, and all living things.
Kxansulaxw’s performance will serve as a powerful reminder of the rich Indigenous culture that exists in the region and the deep connection between the Syilx people and the land they have called home for generations.
The energetic Mudrats will also take the stage, bringing their youthful enthusiasm and love for rock and pop classics to life. This Oliver-based band, formed in November 2023, has already gained a loyal following through local gigs and school performances.
With Ezra Toon on bass and vocals, Tommy Racz and Edwin Lee on guitar, Silas McAllister on vocals and guitar, Sam Lee on keys, and Rocky Toon on drums, the Mudrats are sure to get the audience moving with their dynamic sound.
Also joining the showcase is Miss Leah, artistic director and lead instructor at Rise Dance Academy, who has a long-standing connection with Venables Theatre.
Ginny Tonyk, a vibrant drag superstar from Oliver, will bring an entertaining twist to the evening. Ginny, at 40 in human years but just months old in drag years, challenges stereotypes and celebrates inclusivity through her multifaceted performances.
Whether on roller skates, towering on stilts, or playing the saxophone, Ginny’s unique artistry and trailblazing presence highlight the importance of diversity and creativity. As a father of two, Ginny’s performances connect with audiences of all ages, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and joy.
The Sage Valley Voices are a fun loving and welcoming community that specializes in contemporary arrangements of seasonal music and 20th Century standards and classics. The choir performs two concerts a year under the direction of Lori Martine: A Christmas concert in winter and a spring concert.
And while many think that a choir is a sedate and serious group this choir rarely stands still while performing and enjoys dressing in costume to complement the theme of the concert (eg. Dickensian Christmas gowns and tails with top hats).
SOAP Theatre will be providing a sneak peek of their November production of “The Play That Goes Wrong”. This play has been described as a mash-up between Agatha Christie and Monty Python.
Art students from SOSS will also be showcasing their art throughout the evening in the Theatre Lobby.
In addition to the entertainment, local dignitaries from the Town of Oliver, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS), and the Osoyoos Indian Band as well as the President of the Oliver Community Theatre Society will take the stage to share reflections on the theatre’s ten-year history and its impact on the community.
Expect heartwarming speeches and exciting highlights of past successes, all underscoring the important role Venables Theatre has played in fostering local culture and artistic expression.
“This evening promises to be a highlight of the year for both performers and the community, celebrating ten years of artistic excellence, cultural diversity, and shared memories.
“Whether you’re a fan of music, dance, or theatre, or simply want to show your support for local artists and causes, the Venables Theatre 10th Anniversary Showcase is an event you won’t want to miss!”
The event begins at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 26. Admission is by donation, with proceeds benefiting the Oliver Food Bank.
