This weekend marks the start of a two-week spring break for most Tri-City families, and if you're staying in town there are lots of great events promising fun for the whole gang.
Friday, March 9
GATHER 'ROUND
This evening's installment of the Crossroads Coffeehouse features the John Lyon Band. Lyon, Antonia Robertson and Mary Sparks mix top vocals, harmonies and instrumentals ranging from contemporary folk tunes to blues and classic American jazz for a show that will appeal to audiences young and old. Get to the Gathering Place at Leigh Square (behind PoCo city hall) for the open stage starting at 7:30 p.m.; the band takes the stage at 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit Crossroads Hospice.
UNDER THE SEA
The kids will love the original musical interpretation of Hans Christian Andersen's beloved fairy tale, The Little Mermaid, presented by Theatrix Youtheatre Society. The cast helped create the show, along with choreography and aerial acrobatics by Emily Black. Shows are at the Port Moody Inlet Theatre (100 Newport Dr.) until tomorrow night, at 1 and 7 p.m. Visit www.theatrixyoutheatre.com for more information.
ON TOUR
What happens when a motley crew of theatre hopefuls sign up for a drama class? A lot of comedy, plenty of wit and a dose of heartfelt emotion in a new play, Circle Mirror Transformation, by American playwright Annie Baker. The well-known Vancouver performer Nicola Cavendish directs this Arts Club on Tour performance, playing at the Evergreen Cultural Centre (1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam) until tomorrow night. Performances are at 8 p.m., with a 4 p.m. matinee Saturday as well. For tickets, call 604-927-6555 or visit www.evergreenculturalcentre.ca.
Saturday, March 10
TOTS TIME
Some say that if a drop of water falls in the forest, a hawk would see it, a coyote would smell it and a rabbit would hear it. Explore Colony Farm from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and find out about animal super senses as you test your own. This one's for little ones aged three to five (and their parents, of course). Cost is $12/child & adult pair. Register in advance at 604-432-6359. Visit www.metrovancouver.org for more info.
BOOK SIGNING
Port Moody's own Yvonne Harris has published her book Ashoona, Daughter of the Winds and will be signing copies of it today at Chapters at Pinetree Village in Coquitlam. Drop by and hear about Harris' experience living on Baffin Island for two years, where a village elder proved the inspiration for her book. The signing runs from 1 to 3 p.m.
HAVE YOUR SAY
If you're a Port Coquitlam taxpayer you'll want to head over to the PoCo recreation complex (2150 Wilson Ave.) to learn how the city plans to spend your money this year. The annual financial plan open house runs from 9 a.m. to noon, and gives property owners a chance to offer their feedback on taxes, a variety of planned projects and more. Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/budget for more information.
BINGO BONUS
The Port Coquitlam branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (2675 Shaughnessy St.) welcomes one and all for free bingo today, starting at 1 p.m. Stick around to try your luck again at the meat draw at 3:30 p.m. or to have some lunch. Call 604-942-8911 for more information.
Sunday, March 11
SUNDAY JAZZ
Port Coquitlam kicks off its 13th annual Sunday Coffee Concert series with the Inlet Jazz Band at 1:30 p.m. The 16-piece group has been playing together for the past 15 years and will entertain folks at the Terry Fox Theatre (1260 Riverwood Gate, Port Coquitlam) with songs from jazz legends like Count Basie and Benny Goodman. They also promise a few contemporary pieces for good measure, and welcome vocalists Gabriole Sinclaire and Sean Huston, as well as the Harmony Vocal Ensemble. Tickets are $10/$5, available at www.experienceit.ca or at the door.
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