Parents and caregivers looking to introduce their kids to the theatre scene have five matinees to choose from at Coquitlam's Evergreen Cultural Centre for the upcoming arts season.
The family series at the City Centre facility kicks off Nov. 13 with At Nightfall by the Sursaut Dance Company, which tells the tale of an overworked shoemaker who leaves his shop and finds a water forest filled with magical people.
Dianna David: Take a Closer Look runs on Jan. 29 and describes the journey of a young girl finding her way through a new school.
The multi-media show is packed with hip hop dancing, clowning, miming, shadow playing and juggling.
Vancouver Opera in Schools hosts Hansel & Gretel on March 4 that will appeal to Harry Potter and Twilight fans.
And Maritime Marionettes presents the Bremen Town Musicians on March 25, featuring a puppet story about an aging donkey wants to be a musician.
Finally, Flyin' Bob: Be the Circus, a one-man, three-ring circus, happens on May 6 with juggling, clowning, uncycling, acrobatic and wire walking tricks.
David Mann, Evergreen's performing arts manager, said he enjoys programming the family series.
"Kids today may be exposed to a lot of onscreen entertainment, but there is nothing as exciting as live performance," he said in a news release.
Single tickets for the 2 p.m. shows start at $10; discounts are available for series subscriptions.
For more information, call 604-927-6555 or visit www.evergreenculturalcentre.ca.
Meanwhile, Evergreen will mark its 15th year with a party on Sept. 17.
Comedian Ellie Harvie and the Leo Bae Jazz Band will kick off the anniversary season at 7 p.m.
The event will followed on Sunday, Sept. 18, with the opening reception for the art gallery's new exhibition, titled Kwikwetlem: Red Fish up the River.
The open house runs from 2 to 4 p.m.
jwarren@tricitynews.com
