Spring is certainly roaring in like a lion. Take shelter and check out some of the great shows and events happening this weekend.
TODAY: Friday, March 23
BRILLIANT BEADS
The Fraser Valley Bead Show is back, running at the Executive Plaza Hotel (405 North Rd., Coquitlam) throughout the weekend. There will be an exclusive mix of beads and jewelry, as well as free demonstrations. The show runs today from 2 to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $7 (kids under 12 are free). Visit fraservalleybeadshow.ca for more details.
JOIN THE UNION
An evening of fine folk music is in store at the Crossroads Coffeehouse when Fraser Union plays at the Gathering Place at Leigh Square. The trio mixes strong vocals with guitar, banjo and more. Open stage starts at 7:30 p.m.
ELVIS IS IN THE BUILDING
Well, a very strong resemblance, anyway. A Tribute to Elvis with Darren Lee is at the Port Moody Inlet Theatre (100 Newport Dr.) at 8 p.m. (and Saturday at 7 p.m.). Lee has picked up several awards for his homage to the King and had a long-running show in Vegas. Call 604-461-4717 for tickets.
Saturday, March 24
SPRING INTO ART
Get into the spring spirit and unlock your inner creativity at the Acrylics Immersion workshop at Place des Arts (1120 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam). Led by instructor Sue Cowan, the workshop runs today (and Saturday, March 31) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for adults of all skill levels. Learn new techniques for painting with acrylics, in either an abstract or realistic mode. Register at www.placedesarts.ca or call 604-664-1636.
MAGIC AND MIND READING
Three top magicians join forces for the Magic & Mystery show at the Terry Fox Theatre (1260 Riverwood Gate, PoCo) tonight at 7 p.m. The show is packed with offbeat comedy, stunning illusions, mind-bending mentalism and, of course, some off-the-charts tricks. Tickets are just $10, available by calling 604-788-9046. Visit www.terryfoxtheatre.com.
Sunday, March 25
HERON TIME
The herons are here, and it's a great time to check them out as they gather at Colony Farm Regional Park for the mating season. Join the Burke Mountain Naturalists for a free guided Great Blue Heron nature walk, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Meet at the end of Colony Farm Road at the community gardens. Suitable for all ages; call 604-520-6442 for more info.
SHOWER SHOW
The folk-cabaret band Maria in the Shower performs at the last Sunday Coffee Concert at the Terry Fox Theatre (1260 Riverwood Gate, Port Coquitlam) today at 1:30 p.m. A swingy mix of samba, ballads, rockabilly, blues and gypsy soul, this show is guaranteed to get your toes tapping. Opening the show is the Leigh Square Children's Glee Club. Tickets are $10/$5, at 604-927-8400 or www.experienceit.ca or at the door, from 12:30 p.m. Visit www.mariaintheshower.com for info.
BACK TO SCHOOL
Sorry kids, the two-week spring break is officially coming to an end. Squeeze in a last bit of fun at the back-to-school skate at the Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex (633 Poirier St., Coquitlam) from 6 to 8 p.m. Open to all ages, it includes a two-hour skate with door prizes and refreshments for $3.
MERRY MARIONETTES
Hailing from Truro, Nova Scotia, the Maritime Marionettes (supported by Heather and Darrell Taylor) will be performing two folk tales at the Evergreen Cultural Centre (1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam) this weekend. Catch Jack and the Beanstalk at today's show and on Sunday, the marionettes perform The Bremen Town Musicians, about an aging donkey who follows his dream to become a musician. Both shows are at 2 p.m. Tickets are $18/$10, available at 604-927-6555 or www.evergreenculturalcentre.ca.
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