The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre is blossoming with an eclectic mix of events for the month of May. From the sounds of opera to the music of Canadian singer/songwriter Murray McLauchlan, divine dance, a musical odyssey, a night at the movies and an adventure with a little mermaid, the shows are sure to make a splash with all aficionados of the arts.
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The month of May starts on a high note, with their Tuesday morning opera La Florza Del Destino on May 7 at 10 a.m. Metropolitan Opera music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts Verdi’s grand tale of ill-fated love, deadly vendetta, and family strife, with soprano Lise Davidsen making her debut as the noble Leonora, whose character has been referred to as one of the repertory’s most tormented — and thrilling — heroines.
The Metropolitan Opera is broadcast in HD from New York City tickets are $36, or $32 for seniors.
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Music lovers, and Murray McLauchlan fans will not want to waste any time getting tickets for May 8 concert where he will be promoting his new album Hourglass.
McLauchlan has had a career most musicians would dream of, spanning more than 50 years with 20 albums and 11 Juno wins tucked under his guitar strap. Some of his songs that are now considered to be Canadian standards include ‘Farmer’s Song’, ‘Whispering Rain’, and ‘Sweeping the Spotlight Away’.
McLauchlan knows about being in the spotlight as on top of receiving an Honorary Doctor of Laws and being appointed to The Order of Canada, he is also a painter, author, actor, and radio host.
“As a songwriter I know that it’s not enough to sit in your kitchen and write,” said McLauchlan in a press release. “Your songs need to be heard. Music is a communicative art and if it isn’t brought in front of people there is no way to tell if that end has been met. I like to think of a concert tour as a kind of roving gallery to test your art and your ideas. I try to do my very best to make it worthwhile for folks to be there and to perhaps look at things in a new way when they leave.”
McLauchlan takes the CPAC stage at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $69.
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On May 9, Queen Margaret’s School brings their 2024: A Spring Odyssey to the CPAC stage. Attendees will be transported through a myriad of musical universes with moving music from films such as Spiderman, Interstellar, Pinocchio, Shrek, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Barbie and more. Under the direction of Alison Hounsome all numbers will be performed by the QMS Intermediate and Senior Bands, the String Orchestra, the QMS Concert Choir as well as various soloists. A Spring Odyssey begins at 6:30 p.m., and tickets are $20.
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On May 24, dive under the sea for some magical and musical fun as Queen Margaret School present two shows of The Little Mermaid Jr.
Adapted from Disney’s Broadway production and the feature animated film, under the direction of Tilly Lorence attendees will be taken on an adventure in a magical underwater kingdom with Ariel and her aquatic friends.
Ariel, a young mermaid, dreams of trading her ocean home, and mermaid tail in for some land legs and a chance to explore the world above sea level. Acting on this wish means defying her father King Triton, while making a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula. To find true love she must convince the noble and handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been in search of. Look for more on this production in an upcoming issue of the Citizen.
There will be both a 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. performance. The matinee will be a special school show with rows K though P open to the public. Tickets are $25, or $15 for students.
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On May 26, Warmland Dance turns up the heat with their 10th Anniversary Showcase as they feature dances across all levels and genres. Dance devotees will have the chance to see two unique shows for the price of one — once they purchase their ticket for the first show at 1 p.m., they can call the box office at 250-746-2722 to receive a free ticket for the second 6 p.m. performance. Tickets are $35, or $22 for students and seniors.
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On May 27, Reel film buffs will want to sneak away from their responsibilities as Reel Alternatives presents The Great Escaper starring Michael Caine, and Glenda Jackson at 7 p.m.
Inspired by a true love story The Great Escaper follows octogenarian Bernie Jordan (Caine) as he stages an impressive escape to join fellow war veterans on a beach in Normandy as they commemorate their fallen comrades.
Caine’s character embodies the rebellious “can-do” spirit of a generation that was fading fast. This dramatic comedy looks at war and aging and what people tell themselves to make both bearable. Bernie Jordan’s adventure, which stretches over the course of a mere 48 hours, also marks the culmination of his 60-year marriage to Irene (Jackson). The Great Escaper celebrates the couple’s love and gives a close look at the lessons the greatest generation can teach us.
All proceeds go directly to benefiting individuals and families in Cowichan through Cowichan Hospice by ensuring hospice services are available when they need them. Tickets are $17.
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To purchase tickets for shows, go to cowichanpac.ca or call the Cowichan Ticket Centre at 250-746-2722, or visit in person in the lobby of the Cowichan Community Centre on James St. in Duncan.