MUSIC
What: Harry Manx
Where: PortTheatre.com
When: Saturday Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $12 per household from (250-754-8550)
Why: The Port Theatre’s Spring Spotlight Series brings Salt Spring Island favourite Harry Manx into the homes of viewers on Saturday night, with a concert to be livestreamed from the stage of the empty Nanaimo venue. Manx, originally from the Isle of Man, has long been one of the region’s top blues and world music performers, with an intoxicating sound the multiple Juno Award winner has labelled “Mysticssippi.” He’s the perfect tonic for these uncertain times.
INTERACTIVE ART
What: Chilly
Where: embracearts.org
When: 5 p.m. Friday Feb. 5 until 5 p.m. Sunday Feb. 7
Admission: By donation
Why: The Embrace Arts Foundation meant for its new production, Chilly, to be an in-person art installation about a winter wonderland, but organizers have taken the necessary steps for it to transition into the virtual world. Written by local artists Adam Irwin-Gunn and Tiffany Tjosvold and performed by neurodivergent, disabled, and non-disabled performers, the interactive project features an immersive online show coupled with at-home play in the form of a tactile map. Entertainment for the whole family. Visit embracearts.org for map information, tickets, and accessibility options.
PERFORMING ARTS
What: African Connections 2021
Where: crimsoncoastdance.com
When: Feb. 6-27
Tickets: By donation (some events are ticketed) at 250-716-3230
Why: Tania Amaral curated this wide-ranging online festival, which includes two Black History Month events presented each Saturday through the month of February. Film screenings, moderated discussions, music, oral storytelling, and fitness and dance classes are on tap over the next four weeks, all but two of which are presented on a by-donation basis. The mandate is to explore Africa and its diverse countries, cultures, and people with a series of events for both adults and children.
