Another cluster of artists booked to play Rifflandia in September was announced Friday, and in the mix is a classic soul singer, two veteran hip-hop acts and a reggae icon.
Reunited rap groups Jurassic 5 and De La Soul will appear at the four-day festival, as will former James Brown tribute singer Charles Bradley and Bob Marley producer Lee “Scratch” Perry. The latter, now 80, will make his first Victoria appearance since 1999.
Also announced Friday was ’90s pop group Prozzäk, Operators, Royal Wood, Fruit Bats and others. They will join previously announced artists Michael Franti & Spearhead, Wolf Parade, X Ambassadors, Band of Skulls, Coleman Hell, Jesse Rope. The ninth edition of Rifflandia is set for Sept. 15-18 at various venues.
Super Passes ($165), VIP Passes ($295) and Rifflandia/Rock The Shores festival bundles ($225/$450) are on sale through rifflandia.com and Lyle’s Place.
Farquhar to receive a technical upgrade
The University of Victoria is upgrading technical equipment at the 1,050-seat Farquhar Auditorium, thanks to a $360,000 federal grant.
The theatre, in UVic’s University Centre building, hasn’t had significant upgrades to its technical equipment in 15 years. The money will go toward improvements in lighting and sound. It will also help fund recent renovations to the ticket centre — including a wheelchair-accessible counter — and the coat check and storage area.
A new hearing-assist system for patrons with impaired hearing will be among the improvements.
The auditorium operates as a rental space and independent producer of performances. As well, it supplies UVic with space for large classes, rehearsals and events.
Last year, more than 140,000 patrons attended 135 events at Farquhar Auditorium.
The grant was provided through the Department of Canadian Heritage’s Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.