By Bailey Telo, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
It is an exciting time for entertainment enthusiasts in Burlington: the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) has been diligently preparing for this season’s upcoming events. With over forty events approaching just before the new year, there will be a diverse array of performances, from music and dance to theatrical performances and comedy pets.
From October 18 to 29, BPAC is showcasing events such as the Popovich Comedy Pet Theater; We Walk the Line: Tribute to Johnny Cash; Walking Through The Fire: Indigenous Collaborations ft. Sultans of String and Friends; and the Festival of Arabic Music and Arts: The Nightingale.
With the holidays quickly approaching, there are a variety of festive events to look forward to, as well. Between November 25 and December 10, a range of performances will take place such as: Crash Test Dummies: Jingle All The Way Tour; The Men of The Deeps: Christmas In The Mine; The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine: The Nutcracker; Beaches International Jazz Festival: Merry Motown Christmas Special; and Burlington Symphony Orchestra: A Christmas Spectacular.
Since its grand opening in 2011, the Burlington Performing Arts Centre has been the heart of culture, creativity, and entertainment in Burlington. According to their website, the centre is “A vibrant, gold LEED certified venue, a presenter, a cultural developer, an educator and a community hub.”
The not-for-profit organization serves as a venue for both professional artists and local talent, showcasing a variety of events such as theatrical productions, musical events, and comedy acts. Whether you’re interested in seeing a jazz festival, ballet performance, or stand-up comedian, there’s a diverse range of options to accommodate everyone’s preferences.
The Live and Local shows are one of the ways local talent is fostered at BPAC. The local artist development initiative plays a critical role in supporting the talent of up-and-coming artists within Burlington, providing these individuals with a space to share their performing arts discipline with the community.
BPAC Executive Director Tammy Fox notes that they are “committed to taking the lead in supporting the growth of local artists and arts organizations as part of their mandate.”
Additionally, “BPAC’s Live and Local series allows local performers to increase their creative capacity, reach new heights of artistic excellence, deliver richer and more diverse performances and ultimately grow their audience.”
On Sunday, November 12 at 4 p.m., Emma Whale and Jesse Adams, with special guest Sarah Slean will perform at this season’s first Live and Local show. Desjardins insurance agent Daniel Durst is sponsoring this year’s Live and Local series, his third season as sponsor. Durst appreciates being able to help support local talent and give Burlingtonians the opportunity to see great artists from the area.
Great news…the Live and Local Artist Development initiative is still accepting applications for this season! Burlington-based artists in any of the performing arts are welcome to apply.
Applicants can fill out the 2023/2024 Live and Local application form on the BPAC website here.
So how can you get your tickets and help support the Burlington Performing Arts Centre?
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre makes it simple and convenient to purchase tickets directly on the website after selecting a show. Payments can also be made at the box office or over the phone. BPAC has also provided a 2023/2024 season brochure that can be downloaded from their website containing everything from memberships, shows and more.
Burlingtonians also have the opportunity to donate and help continue to bring a diverse range of world-class entertainment events to the community.
With a thrilling lineup of both cultural and creative events on the way, you won’t want to miss out on what’s to come at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre!
