The OV Arts Centre

03/10/2022

Did you receive the most recent copy of At The OV?

Our newsletter keeps members and subscribers updated on upcoming events, introduces you to one of our highlighted members, and more.

Subscribe today to see what's coming soon so you can save the dates and we'll

https://theovartscentre.ca/?s=newsletter

03/09/2022

Western Edge Theatre presents: The Cult of Brother 12: a musical dark comedy.

The infamous cult leader is back – and he’s singing! The Cult of Brother 12 is a witty, irreverent, and very tuneful take on the story of the spiritual leader and con man who, in the 1920s, drew acolytes to Valdes Island from around the world. This time he’s pursued by intrepid local reporter Doris Abercrombie, who’s out to get the goods on the bruh and his equally cunning partner, Madame Zee.

First presented as a one-act musical at the Nanaimo Fringe, The Cult of Brother 12 has now been expanded into a full-length, all-singing, all-dancing theatrical extravaganza. Join the cult!

FEATURING:

Dean Chadwick as Brother 12, Lauren Semple as Madame Zee with Rick Meyers, Frank Moher, Alejandro Mujica and Haley Turnbull.

March 25, 26 ~ 7:30 pm
March 27 ~ 2 pm
March 31, Apr. 1, 2 ~ 7:30 pm
April 3 ~ 2 pm

Head over to WesternEdge.org to purchase tickets!

Book & Lyrics by BILL MINER

Music by MARTY STEELE & BILL MINER

Directed by BILL MINER

Musical Direction by MARTY STEELE

Choreography by GENEVIÈVE CARON

Set Design by JENNIFER THOMPSON

Costume Design by LORNA McLELLAN

03/08/2022

Wow! Nanaimo you are incredible.

We're only 10 memberships away from our goal of 50!

If we hit 51 by Thursday, Cheryl (the administrator) has agreed to participate in a hilarious reel challenge in celebration.

You can join right from our website www.theovartscentre.ca/membership

Welcome to The OV Rent This Space The OV Arts Centre is located in downtown Nanaimo on the traditional, unceded … Continue reading "The OV Arts Centre | Arts & Event Rentals"

03/07/2022

How would you like to be a part of The OV Arts Centre? What if you could help shape the future of the Nanaimo arts & culture community and have access to perks like 10% off space rentals, marketing opportunities?

The goal we set back in September was to reach 50 members! We are only about 20 memberships away from that goal. Can you help us?

Memberships are accessible and available for organizations, families, seniors, students, and are free for youth 15 and under (as non-voting members).

To learn about the membership benefits and join The OV, click through this link and we'll !
https://theovartscentre.ca/the-ov-membership-sign-up-form/

02/17/2022

with Western Edge

Did you know that there are only four more performances? or that Thursday is cheap night with Western Edge!

While The OV's events Calendar is undergoing some routine maintenance, you can purchase tickets for this and other shows at westernedge.org or get more information from their box office by phone 250-816-6459.

02/10/2022

The building is buzzing today as we get ready for the opening of 'In a World Created by a Drunken God', part of the Western Edge Theatre New Waves Festival. Sets are being built and dressed, cue to cue for tech, and actors on stage! This show opens tomorrow night at 7:30, you can get your tickets through Western Edge!

02/01/2022

with Western Edge on Friday, Feb. 4th for the (free!) opening event of the New Waves Festival: An opening ceremony with Snuneymuxw First Nation Elder Geraldine Manson and Hesquiaht Elder and singer Quuiatsapulth accompanied by a group of Indigenous youth. Then stay for a participatory reading of The Unplugging by Algonquin playwright Yvette Nolan. And then return for all the Festival productions! Details and tix at https://westernedge.org/show/2022-new-waves-festival/
As capacity is limited to 50%, advanced reservations are recommended.

01/31/2022

Meet our members!



Bonnie Catterson Kent has owned and operated Kismet Theatre Academy and Kismet Theatre Collective in Nanaimo since 2012.

Kismet has used The OV Arts Centre for all of their shows through the years, and though they had to shut their doors due to Covid in March 2020, and they are returning with their EMERGE project for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in 2022!

01/28/2022

How would you like to be a part of The OV Arts Centre? What if you could help shape the future of the Nanaimo arts & culture community and have access to perks like 10% off space rentals, marketing opportunities and more! To learn more about memberships for individuals, students, families, seniors, and organizations, visit https://theovartscentre.ca/ov-member-benefits/

01/28/2022

Are you signed up for the 48- hour film challenge with CineCentral Filmmakers Society ? 🤩🎬

New Dates! are you signed up?

http://www.cinecentral.ca/48-hour-filmmaking-challenge.html

01/27/2022

Spaces are filling up for Kismet Theatre Collective's 2SLGBTQIA+ workshop to production: EMERGE!

Supported by the and The OV Arts Centre, this workshop will take place March 23rd -June 8th 2022 at The OV and culminate in a performance June 9th & 10th.

In 12 weeks, facilitators will create an original play with the participants drawn from their lived experience, with input and guidance from elders in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Writer/Director Bonnie Catterson-Kent will facilitate along with Tarah Sullivan and Peer Mentor, Miles Kehoe.

We are now seeking applications for 8-10 2SLGBTQIA+ artists age 15-22 who wish to use their voices to celebrate, inspire, educate and commiserate about what it means to be young and q***r in the pre, current and hopefully post pandemic world.

Experience is not necessary only commitment to show up and show out! Please send a short intro to yourself (headshot allowed but not required) to [email protected] by March 1/2022

This opportunity is FREE all artists will receive profit shares from performance.

ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST BE VACCINATED.

01/18/2022

Did you know that The OV has exclusive co-production opportunities for its members?
This allows emerging artists to put on professional events, performances, and create digital media while reducing overhead costs and increasing access!

It might be January, but we're already booking into September 2022 for productions!

Become a member today and set up a meeting to help you bring your creative vision to life! https://theovartscentre.ca/ov-member-benefits/

01/14/2022

The OV Arts Centre is thrilled to announce Kismet Theatre Collective 's 2SLGBTQIA+ workshop to production: EMERGE!

Supported by the and The OV Arts Centre, this workshop will take place March 23rd -June 8th 2022 at The OV and culminate in a performance June 9th & 10th.

In 12 weeks, facilitators will create an original play with the participants drawn from their lived experience, with input and guidance from elders in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Writer/Director Bonnie Catterson-Kent will facilitate along with Tarah Sullivan and Peer Mentor, Miles Kehoe.

We are now seeking applications for 8-10 2SLGBTQIA+ artists age 15-22 who wish to use their voices to celebrate, inspire, educate and commiserate about what it means to be young and q***r in the pre, current and hopefully post pandemic world.

Experience is not necessary only commitment to show up and show out! Please send a short intro to yourself (headshot allowed but not required) to [email protected] by March 1/2022

This opportunity is FREE all artists will receive profit shares from performance.

ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST BE VACCINATED.

01/13/2022

The 2022 New Waves Festival
showcasing Indigenous plays and artists!

Featuring:
IN A WORLD CREATED BY A DRUNKEN GOD
By Drew Hayden Taylor

While preparing to move back to the reserve where he was born, Jason Pierce, a half-Native, half-white man, is visited by a stranger.

Harry Dieter claims to be his brother, the acknowledged son of the white man who fathered and then abandoned Jason. Dieter has a reason for finding Jason: their father is dying from kidney failure and they want to know if Jason is a possible match. “Smart, riveting, and yet complex.” (Quill & Quire).

Feb. 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 ~ 7:30 pm / Feb. 20 ~ 2 pm

Plus!

The Unplugging by Yvette Nolan. In a post-apocalyptic world, two women must rely on traditional wisdom for their survival. A participatory reading presented in conjunction with the Reconciliation Playreading Circle. Feb. 4 ~ 7:30 pm

A double bill of one-acts: Trying to Keep Up by Castor Angus. Lovers in their late teens, Archie and Walsh are now married and engaged, respectively. But just how eternal is love? And, Mourning in Rm. 243 by Daniel Puglas. Family members gather in a motel room after a funeral. As the “mourning” begins, the spectre of alcohol in their lives finally becomes too much for one of them. Feb. 13 ~ 2 pm / Feb. 15, 16 ~ 7:30 pm

Scenes from Nanaimo Indian Hospital by Laura Cranmer. A play in the English, Hul’q’umin’um, NuuChahnulth, and Kwak’wala languages, based on the playwright’s stay in the NIH as a young girl. A workshop presentation.
Feb. 14 ~ 7:30 pm

For more information contact [email protected]

12/17/2021

Tonight's the night!
Four things to remember:

1. Your mask! Don't be like Lil' Mx and forget it in the car at the top of the hill when it's raining. Tuck it snug and safe somewhere.

2. Your proof of vaccination. We're required by provincial health orders and will have someone checking at the door!

3. Money to make it rain...erm...snow? If this is your first Drag experience we enthusiastically welcome you! Tipping is encouraged and celebrated. It’s a way to show your favourite performers a little extra love! The Holigays will use a socially distanced tip basket to collect your tips for the Queens, Kings and Royalty while keeping you safely in your seat, because you know, the plague—please bring cash if you are able to tip. If you’re not, no worries! Energetic applause and encouragement are very appreciated!

4. Lastly, have FUN! The HoliGAYS have created something festive and hilarious and can't wait to see you.

12/09/2021

Tickets are moving faster than Drag Queens at a wig sale—over 50% sold! Grab your bestie, a frenemy, or the mail carrier and join us for the Holigay Cheer event of 2021!

This drag showcase is a fully immersive flight of fancy into festive merriment and mischief. Things will get a little naughty, hence the 19+ rating.

Starring the one and only Vikki Smudge, Olive ThisTea, Boy Gorgeous, and Kash, with special guest Abigail ThunderThighs, you know this show will DELIVER, darlings. We’re also introducing two brand new drag babes, Celeste and Lil’ Mx. You don’t want to miss this one night only extravaganza!

Tickets are $40.00 in advance and include a brown paper package tied up with string filled with a few of our favourite things! Proof of vaccination and masks required.

[Image description: Winter themed graphic with white text on a blue background that reads "The OV Holiday Special 19+. Friday, December 17. Doors: 7:45pm/ Show: 8:30 pm. Tickets: $40 in advance." Images of drag performers on the right styled like holiday tree ornaments.]

12/07/2021

Tickets are almost 50% sold. If you were hoping on getting yours next week, we don't recommend waiting.

https://the-ov-arts-centre.square.site/events-at-the-ov

Cozy up ‘round the fireplace with host, Andi Rogynous as they share the story of The OV Holigay Special! This seasonal drag showcase is a fully immersive flight of fancy into festive merriment and mischief. Things will get a little naughty, hence the 19+ rating.

Starring the one and only Vikki Smudge, Olive ThisTea, Boy Gorgeous, and Kash, with special guests Abigail ThunderThighs, Celeste and Lil’ Mx. you know this show will DELIVER, darlings. Don't miss this one-night-only extravaganza that will make your season bright!

Tickets are $40.00 in advance and include a brown paper package tied up with string filled with a few of our favourite things! Get your tickets now: https://the-ov-arts-centre.square.site/events-at-the-ov

12/05/2021

Guys, gals and nonbinary pals….

Dance and prance, with our vixens on ice,
We’ve got snow, spice and everything nice,
Cookies, milk, and a perhaps a hot toddy,
Our Kings, Queens & Theys are always a lil’ naughty,
Candied nuts to be cracked and a stocking full of balls,
Don your gay apparel and help us deck our halls!

tickets available online now at https://theovartscentre.ca/events/the-ov-holigay-special-19/

12/03/2021

Meet our member! Spotlight Academy

Jacqui Kaese has forged a foundation of opportunity for actors in a global industry. With over 30 years experience in the entertainment industry both in Canada and the UK, Jacqui is an accomplished actress, and acting coach. She has worked as an agent and is now in Casting partnered with Gemini Award winning Casting Director Lynne Carrow.

This year Jacqui was awarded the 2021 Leo Award for Casting in a Motion Picture All in Madonna.

Alumni students have worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Nicole Kidman, Robert DeNiro, Tom Cruise, Matt Damon, Jason Statham, Nicholas Cage, and Scarlett Johansson.

She is respected for her coaching technique and career development strategy. Many success stories have emerged from Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland through Spotlight Academy.

12/02/2021

The 23rd Nanaimo Artwalk is coming downtown this weekend! The OV is hosting the wonderful Laura Schramm and a selection of her photography work from 10am - 4pm on Saturday the 4th, and 10am - 12pm on Sunday the 5th (plus you can come back afterwards for the final matinee for Western Edge Theatre's 4000 Miles!)

Check out the Nanaimo Arts Council website (https://nanaimoartscouncil.ca/programs/artwalk/map-and-parking/) for the Artwalk Map and participating artists, and come by to see us this weekend. We're #4!

11/30/2021

Advance tickets are on sale - Don't wait - this show will sell out!!
https://the-ov-arts-centre.square.site/events-at-the-ov

Cozy up ‘round the fireplace with host, Andi Rogynous as they share the story of The OV Holigay Special! This seasonal drag showcase is a fully immersive flight of fancy into festive merriment and mischief. Things will get a little naughty, hence the 19+ rating.

Starring the one and only Vikki Smudge, Olive ThisTea, Boy Gorgeous, and Kash, with special guests Abigail ThunderThighs, Celeste and Lil’ Mx. you know this show will DELIVER, darlings. Don't miss this one-night-only extravaganza that will make your season bright!

Tickets are $40.00 in advance and include a brown paper package tied up with string filled with a few of our favourite things! Get your tickets now: https://the-ov-arts-centre.square.site/events-at-the-ov

11/25/2021

How would you like to be a part of The OV Arts Centre? What if you could help shape the future of the Nanaimo arts & culture community and have access to perks like 10% off space rentals, marketing opportunities and more!

To learn more about memberships for individuals, students, families, seniors, and organizations, visit https://theovartscentre.ca/ov-member-benefits/

11/25/2021

Do you have your tickets for opening night?

We've been watching Western Edge Theatre bring the set to life this week and it'll make you feel like you're at Grandma's house.

In this award-winning comedy-drama, 21-year old Leo’s bike trip across America hasn’t worked out as he hoped, and he ends up staying with his 91-year old grandma, Vera.

They’re unlikely roomies. Family is family, though, even if your grandmother is an irascible old Marxist, and especially when your grandson has some serious healing to do.

Heralded as “a funny, moving, altogether wonderful drama,” by The New York Times, it’s sure to be a must see experience. Directed by Western Edge artistic associate Brianna Hamilton, it opens Nov. 26th (tomorrow). See our events calendar for showtimes and tickets.

https://theovartscentre.ca/ -calendar

11/24/2021

We're ready to welcome Western Edge back for the 21/22 Theatre season as things start to open up again. Check out some behind the scenes images of Clarice McCord, Icarus Skelly, and Jennifer Kwan at rehearsals.

Their first show is 4000 Miles. They are busy with set building this week! Tickets are on sale now—opens November 26th.

https://theovartscentre.ca/events/4000-miles/

11/23/2021

Tickets are moving faster than a snowball rolling down hill!

Don't miss your chance to cozy up ‘round the fireplace with host, Andi Rogynous as they share the story of The OV Holigay Special! This drag showcase is a fully immersive flight of fancy into festive merriment and mischief. Things will get a little naughty, hence the 19+ rating.

Starring the one and only Vikki Smudge, Olive ThisTea, Boy Gorgeous, and Kash, with special guests Abigail ThunderThighs & PJ Smudge, you know this show will DELIVER, darlings. We’re also introducing two brand new drag babes, Celeste and Lil’ Mx. You don’t want to miss this one night only extravaganza!

Tickets are $40.00 in advance and include a brown paper package tied up with string filled with a few of our favourite things! Proof of vaccination and masks required.

[Image description: Winter themed graphic with white text on a blue background that reads "The OV Holiday Special 19+. Friday, December 17. Doors: 7:45pm/ Show: 8:30 pm. Tickets: $40 in advance." Images of drag performers on the right styled like holiday tree ornaments.]

11/19/2021

Are you a digital content creator? Maybe you’re looking to pivot your creative or performing arts business into digital spaces.

As a member at The OV Arts Centre, you receive 10% off all space rentals and access to co-production opportunities, professional support, and the best three-camera digital streaming system in the city!

To start accessing member benefits today, sign up at https://theovartscentre.ca/ov-member-benefits/

11/18/2021

Today's the day!

The bells will be ringing and elves will be singing at the first round of auditions for The OV Holigay Special (19+)

There's still time to register for today AND Saturday's audition time slots, 2 pm to 4 pm.

All you have to do is fill out the audition form, don your gay apparel, and shine like the star that you are.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeL7y0EnqY-1Ik1MYF-drytICCl817dKeVNs-DeAxh-v6RFHg/viewform?usp=sf_link

11/16/2021

Ever wonder what happens when a 21 year old with healing to do moves in with his 91 year old marxist grandmother?

They’re unlikely roommates, and perfect candidates to get on each other’s nerves.

Opening night is in 10 days. Get your tickets for Western Edge Theatre's first production of the season now.

https://theovartscentre.ca/ -calendar

11/15/2021

Did you book your audition time yet? Maybe you're waiting because you don't have a holiday number yet? That's okay! Come and show us your best and cast your vision!

Calling all Queens, Kings, and Drag Artists of all genders and genres! You are invited to audition for the first ever DRAG Showcase at The OV! On November 18th and 20th, 2021, The OV is hosting open auditions for our inaugural production of The OV Holigay SCalling all Queens, Kings, and Drag Artists of all genders and genres! You are invited to audition for the first ever DRAG Showcase at The OV! On November 18th and 20th, 2021, The OV is hosting open auditions for our inaugural production of The OV Holigay S (19+).

We want to see your best, most fabulous, most unique selves! No cookie-cutter drag here. All winter holidays are included in this theme and because of [redacted], Mariah Carey is strictly off limits… for now.

This is a paid gig! The proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to cast and crew.

With COVID-19 in mind, auditions will be by appointment only. Book your audition time here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeL7y0EnqY-1Ik1MYF-drytICCl817dKeVNs-DeAxh-v6RFHg/viewform?usp=sf_link

11/13/2021

Did you know that you can become a member of The OV Arts Centre Society and help to shape the future of your creative community?

https://theovartscentre.ca/ov-member-benefits/

With memberships for individuals, students, seniors, families (up to 5) and even organizations—there’s a fit for everyone.

For discounts on space rentals, early bird tickets on select events, voting privileges at Annual General Meetings, and more, click the link above to start your membership now!