October 1 edition: How to fix BC’s housing crisis

Hi, hello, and welcome!

I’m filling in for V today, who’s on vacation in Ottawa, of all places.

The Michelin Guide is announcing its 2024 Vancouver winners this Thursday, and I’ll be there to witness (and eat) it all. I’m curious if any of our restaurants will be the first in Canada to snag a coveted second star, or—gasp—join others in losing the one they currently have. 

Two restaurants in Toronto lost their stars this year, which I would imagine hurts more than never having earned one at all. It was apparently a bit awkward: the restaurants had no clue they’d lost their accolades until the ceremony, when their names simply weren’t called. Oof.

Will Vancouver’s third kick at the Michelin can be as juicy? Be sure to check straight.com on Friday morning for the full scoop of what went down.

And in other news:

— Sara
Editor-in-Chief

FEATURE

Here’s how to get BC out of its housing crisis

We all love to talk about BC’s housing crisis, but how many of us know how to fix it? A new strategic plan from the Aboriginal Housing Management Association, BC Non-Profit Housing Association, and Co-operative Housing Federation of BC offers a clear, by-the-numbers path to affordability for all. The CEOs of these three organizations share more in a Commentary piece.

CITY & CULTURE

Ancient rituals meet new tech at Circle Wellness

Who woulda thought that Granville Island would be home to the city’s most immersive spa?

• The Vancouver Maritime Museum has announced significant Inuit-led updates for its St. Roch Gallery

• A sdominatrix shares some tips for dating a sex worker

SPONSORED BY ARTS CLUB THEATRE COMPANY

Sexy Laundry is going on Tour!

In Sexy Laundry, Alice and Henry are coming to grips with their lacklustre sex life. In an effort to rekindle the magic in their 25-year marriage, they go on a naughty hotel retreat, equipped with a copy of Sex for Dummies. But they soon find that when the clothes come off, so do the gloves.

Director Diana Donnelly said, “The play looks at the midlife reckoning … Sexy Laundry is about the joy of long love—despite everything. If Alice and Henry can reconnect, we all can.”

Don’t miss your chance to see Vancouver playwright Michele Riml's international hit play that has been translated into 15 languages. On tour October 8–November 9—find a venue near you!

ARTS

Empty-Handed wants to help you confront your dragon on the mountain

In its world premiere kicking off at the Firehall Arts Centre tomorrow, Empty-Handed uses contemporary dance, physical theatre, and music compositions to help its audience members embrace their demons.

• A new documentary takes an intimate look at the life of Arthur Erickson

• Local dance company Plastic Orchid Factory has announced its 2024-25 season lineup

• Fraser Valley Writers Festival has announced its free literary events

• Bay of Quinte Mohawk artist Shelley Niro’s will first major retrospective is on now in Vancouver

• The Vancouver International Film Festival continues until Sunday, showcasing spectacular cinema on screens across the city along with live events combining music and film. See what's on.*

• Vancouver! Experience the world premiere of RAVEN MOTHER by Dancers of Damelahamid: a multi-media Indigenous dance work. On stage this OCT 09–12 at The Cultch.*

• The Improv Centre kicked off the run of their live improv take on TV's The Traitors over the weekend, and the results turn betrayal into a blast.*

*sponsored listing

SPONSORED BY METRO THEATRE

Experience Fear This October with Metro Theatre’s The Woman in Black

Step into the shadowy world of The Woman In Black, running October 12–November 2 at Metro Theatre. This acclaimed ghost story, directed by and starring Bernard Cuffling, brings a chilling tale of fear and suspense to life. Just in time for Halloween—prepare for a night of unforgettable terror.

MUSIC

Van Jams: New Vancouver music from September 2024

You gotta hear ‘em! Start your October off the right way with our round-up of new local music.

• See photos from Snotty Nose Rez Kids and the Halluci Nation’s recent Vancouver concerts

• Cantopop duo Twins is coming to town

• Friday Oct 11: Nosferatu With Radiohead: A Silents Synced Film - Watch F.W. Murnau‘s classic silent film, NOSFERATU eerily synced with the works of Radiohead*

*sponsored listing

SPONSORED BY NUMBERS

Drama Club: Vancouver's Best Sing-a-Long Drag Show

Welcome to Drama Club, Vancouver’s Best Sing-A-Long Drag Show where hosts Wan-Ting Moi and Miss Estefan along with Vancouver’s top drag talents entertain you with a fun-filled night of singing, dancing, laughter, and all the DRAMA! Catch them on the 2nd Thursday of every month at Numbers Cabaret!

FOOD & DRINK

Chambar marks 20 years of betting on itself

When Karri Green-Schuermans was opening Chambar two decades ago, one piece of advice proved particularly valuable.

• Where to go for your Korean fried chicken fix

• Enjoy the world-renowned flavor of AeroPress, a velvety-smooth coffee without the grit or bitterness found in other methods.  Loved globally, with 55K+ 5-star reviews.*

• Mateina’s low to no-sugar Yerba Mate beverages offer steady energy without the unwanted crash or jitters. Get 15% off their Energy Brews today!*

*sponsored listing

ICYMI

• The recent earthquake felt around the Lower Mainland is a good reminder to have your emergency kit ready

• The BC and Yukon Book Prizes winners have been announced

• Don’t want to cook this Thanksgiving? These restaurants have you covered

• See inside Vancouver’s very own secret garden

• Oh, what a run: Arts Club has extended its production of Jersey Boys

THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK

ACTIVISM 
BC Seniors for Climate hosts an intergenerational day of arts and culture programming for the planet. (October 1 @ Performance Works)

COMEDY 
The Vancouver Improv Fest celebrates 26 years of spontaneous silliness. (October 1 to 6 @ The Cultch)

LIVING 
Spooky season is here, and Vancouver Mystery Nights are making the most of it with competitive ghost-hunting games. (October 1 to 31 @ 550 West Hastings)

MUSIC
Illuminati Hotties lights up Vancouver. (October 2 @ Biltmore Cabaret)

DANCE
Contemporary dance work Empty-Handed gets dark and deceptive. (October 2 to 5 @ Firehall Arts Centre)

THEATRE
To Perfection follows Gloria, who’s trying to understand her non-binary grandchild. (October 2 to 6 @ Genesis Theatre, Delta)

THEATRE 
Dating sucks, but contemporary Canadian play Baggage doesn’t. (October 3 to 13 @ Studio 58)

VISUAL ARTS
New exhibition deposit/ed uses ceramics to reflect on ocean pollution. (October 3 to November 3 @ Ferry Building Gallery, West Vancouver)

Want to know what else is happening in Vancouver? Check out our events listings.

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