Performing arts highlight this weekend’s events in and around Penticton

PENTICTON – The performing arts are well represented this weekend with dances, live theatre, musical performances and a performing arts festival happening in the South Okanagan.

The 91st annual Penticton Kiwanis Music, Dance and Speech Arts Festival is on this week until Saturday, March 11 at various locations in the city.

Over 1,600 competitive and non-competitive young amateurs perform in nine disciplines, with numerous scholarships and awards handed out at two Highlights Concerts that take place at Cleland Theatre. Tickets are $10 for the Highlight Concerts or purchase the family rate at four for $25. See the Penticton Kiwanis Music Festival website for venue location and times.

The Vagina Monologues comes to Penticton’s Many Hats Theatre Friday March 10 and Saturday, March 11, starting at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $35 and includes a candy buffet, or $60 for a Hot Ticket which includes hot appetizers plus one beer or wine. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with a silent auction both nights. For more information, see the Many Hats Theatre website.

The Okanagan Healthy Living Fair returns to Penticton Saturday, March 11 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. The free event offers 90 booths and 60 different organizations promoting healthy lifestyles. There will also be healthy eating sessions, entertainment and activity demonstrations. For more information, email the Fair Coordinator at: info@healthylivingfair.com

Watermark Beach Resort hosts Wild Ways on Saturday, March 11, a documentary highlighting efforts to preserve bears, elephants and other species. The showing, hosted by the Osoyoos Desert Society, takes place from 2 to 4 p.m., entry cost by donation.

The second annual Great Gatsby Party gets underway Saturday, March 11, at 7 p.m. on the SS Sicamous. Cost is $45, doors open at 7 p.m. for this throwback party to the roaring 20s. Tickets available online or in person at Cannery Brewing.

The Okanagan Symphony presents the Colour of Russia on Saturday, March 11, starting at 7:30 p.m. Guest artist Minsoo Sohn is featured on the piano in a return visit to join the symphony. Cost is $26.75 to $56.25. Tickets are available online or at the Shatford Centre. For more information, see the Okanagan Symphony website.

The Spring Fling Dance happens Saturday, March 11 from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Columbia Hall in Naramata. Cost is $35, tickets are available at Naramata Store.

The Nearly World Famous DuffleBag Theatre presents Rumpelstiltskin when it comes to Centre Stage Theatre located at 9518 Main St. in Summerland on Sunday, March 12, starting at 2 p.m. DuffleBag creates theatrical magic in an exciting, interactive and unique experience for all ages. Tickets are $12. For more information call the Children’s Showcase Society at 250-493-0475.

Experienced blues artists The Blue Hearts perform at The Dream Cafe, Saturday, March 11 starting at 8 p.m. The duo are also members of Uncle Wiggly’s Hot Shoes Blues Band and come to the cafe with 40 years of performing experience behind them. Tickets are available online, cost is $39.

Join the B.C. Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Pints 4 Pawz on Sunday, March 12 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Barking Parrot in the Penticton Lakeside Resort. Cost is $20 per person for entry, one beer or wine and a deluxe burger. There will be a silent auction, prizes and a 50-50 draw. Tickets are available at the Penticton BC SPCA, 220 Dartmouth Drive and at the front desk of the Penticton Lakeside Resort. For more information call 250-493-0136.

Darylectones performs at Cannery Brewing in a free performance Sunday, March 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information call 250-493-2723.

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