Local Arts

Two years ago, when work in the film industry scaled back in Vancouver, Lions Bay costume cutter Druh Ireland started painting full time in her home studio.

A lively Celtic band will once again pay homage to the Scottish poet Robbie Burns at an annual celebration dinner and concert at Coquitlam's Place des Arts next week.

More singers are sought for Tri-City's newest adult choir. Choral Connections, a 60-plus ensemble that rehearses Tuesday nights at Riverside secondary school in Port Coquitlam, will be accepting new members until Jan. 28.

Among my favourite pastimes are listening to chamber music, talking to visual artists about their inspirations and hearing Ivan Sayers speak. I'm in luck next year as the Tri-Cities' arts scene will offer all three opportunities.

The Canadian alternative rock/post-grunge band Our Lady Peace will play the first New Year's Eve concert at the new Hard Rock Casino Vancouver, in Coquitlam on Dec. 31.

When Coquitlam violist Reg Quiring talks about certain pieces, it's as if you can almost hear the music running through his head. That's because he speaks in such detail - and with such passion - about the classical music compositions.

Step out of the winter cold and warm up to the Latin beat at Coquitlam's Evergreen Cultural Centre on Dec. 31.

More than 450 artworks from Tri-City residents and students were sent to High River, AB, this week to support them post-flood. The project, titled Hi Art From the Heart, was organized by Port Coquitlam art educator Diane Moran.

An annual school district drama festival at Port Moody's Heritage Woods secondary this month resulted in that high school advancing to the provincials.

It's been a pretty memorable year for Tony Chris. In May, the Tri-City magic man won two awards: the Close Up Magician of the Year from the Vancouver Magic Circle and the Stage Show Magician of the Year from the Fraser Valley Magic Circle.