West Kootenay Regional Arts Council

Spring Fling FREE Thursdays
2025-04-17 16:00 - 20:00, 2025-04-24 16:00 - 20:00, 2025-05-01 16:00 - 20:00, 2025-05-08 16:00 - 20:00, 2025-05-15 16:00 - 20:00, 2025-05-22 16:00 - 20:00, 2025-05-29 16:00 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
Come on down to the Nelson Museum on Thursday evenings, where you can visit the galleries, museum, and shop for FREE. 4-8pm every Thursday.

Kootenay Renegades with Holly Hyatt and Jon burden
2025-04-18 19:30 - 22:00 | Finley’s Bar $ Grill, 705 Vernon St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4G3, Canada
Finley’s After Work Dance party

NIGHT CITY w/ DOSE., EMERENCZ, & JAKOB
2025-04-19 22:00 - 2025-04-20 03:00 | Oxygen Art Centre, 320 Vernon St Unit-3, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 4E4, Canada
Join DOSE., EMERENCZ, and JAKOB for NIGHT CITY Saturday April 19th at the Oxygen Art Centre. This dance event takes its name from the neon-soaked urban sprawl featured in William Gibson’s seminal novel Neuromancer. Night City is a chaotic, hyper-commercialized metropolis where shadowy corporations dominate, technology permeates every aspect of life, and the streets pulse with danger and opportunity. This event aims to capture the essence of that world—a fusion of cutting-edge technology, rebellion, and underground culture. The soundtrack will feature vintage and contemporary releases from the genres of acid, darkwave, ebm, electro, industrial, and techno, all with a distinctly dark retro futuristic sound.
NIGHT CITY pays homage to the cultural and social influence of cyberpunk, a subgenre of science fiction literature. Cyberpunk reflects many of our anxieties about late-stage capitalism, depicting dystopian worlds where powerful corporations and wealthy elites exploit technology to control society and accumulate profits. However, it also showcases hope where underground resistance utilizes that same technology to fight back. This duality of technology as both oppressor and liberator is one of cyberpunk’s core messages. Similarly, electronic music genres like darkwave, ebm, industrial, and techno emerged as forms of cultural resistance. These underground styles reject commercialism, celebrating non-conformity, and rebellion. Both cyberpunk and these musical movements create spaces for freedom and liberation in a profit-driven world.
Location: Oxygen Art Centre
Address: 320 Vernon St Unit-3 (alley entrance), Sinixt təmxʷúlaʔx (Nelson, BC)
Date: Saturday April 19, 2025
Time: Doors at 9:30pm, Show at 10pm
Tickets: $20 advance (link in bio), $25 door
DJs:
DOSE. @dose.productions
EMERENCZ @emerencz
JAKOB @jakobsounds
-No forms of bigotry, harassment, or hate will be tolerated
-Consent is mandatory
-Celebrate responsibly
-Please contact us if you have any accessibility requirements
-Capacity is limited, secure your spot in advance
-No one turned away for lack of funds (pwyc)
#cyberpunk #film #acid #darkwave #ebm #electro #industrial #techno

Nature celebrated in Poetry Reading
2025-04-26 19:00 - 20:30 | Nelson Public Library, 602 Stanley St, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 1N4, Canada
Elizabeth Cunningham presents her poetry collection Look to this Day, Poems for Doris McCarthy in this reading, which is accompanied by a digital presentation of many of the beautiful images reproduced in the book: the paintings of celebrated Canadian landscape painter Doris McCarthy, which served to inspire Elizabeth’s poems, as has the life of McCarthy itself. The event does double duty, celebrating National Poetry Month and Nelson’s celebration of Earth Week. It promises to be an irresistible combination for anyone who loves poetry, art, and the wild natural world around us.

Star Wars: A Lewd Hope Burlesque Revue
2025-05-03 20:30 - 23:00 | The Royal, 330 Baker Street Nelson, BC V1L 4H5, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 4H5, Canada
Get ready for a night of intergalactic indulgence as Vesper Valentine brings you the epic conclusion of her Star Wars burlesque trilogy:
STAR WARS: A LEWD HOPE Saturday, May 3rd | The Royal | 8:30 PM

The twin suns of Tatooine aren’t the only thing heating up the galaxy… This sultry space saga is back with brand new acts, a stellar cast, and a whole new adventure that’s hotter than a blaster on stun!

Join a rebel alliance of sassy scoundrels, seductive Siths, and jaw-dropping Jedis as they tempt and tease their way through a night of shimmering star power. This is your final chance to witness the glittering grand finale of this cosmic trilogy, it’s going to be absolutely out of this world!

Climb aboard our starcruiser of seduction and let us take you on a pleasure cruise to the farthest reaches of the galaxy, with stops in all the most scandalous spaceports. Whether you’re here to root for the rebels or revel in the dark side, this is the place to be dazzled, delighted, and deliciously distracted by the finest force-fueled tease in the universe.

Come dressed to slay! We’ll have prizes for best dressed and a few surprises still locked in the cargo hold. Whether you’re channeling your inner Wookiee, bounty hunter, or burlesque droid, we want to see you in all your star-studded glory!

Songwriting Symposium
2025-05-04 12:00 - 16:00 | Big Yellow House – 804 Stanley St, Nelson, 804 Stanley St, Nelson, Nelson, V1L1N7, Canada
Join Rosa in an inspiring, non-judgmental space designed to unlock creativity and cultivate songwriting skills. This workshop focuses on the development and structuring of lyrics and melodies, encouraging limitless expression. Participants will engage in collaboration, feedback, and self-reflection—building confidence in their artistry. The session concludes with an optional showcase where finished songs can be shared with the group!

For more information:email contact@rosagood.com or visit rosagood.com/workshopsTo confirm your spot – send workshop fee of $40-60 (sliding scale) to rosagood92@gmail.com
See you in May!

Because I’m Your Mother, That’s Why!
2025-05-04 19:00 - 21:00 | Taghum Hall, 5915 Taghum Hall Rd, Nelson, V1L 6Y4
A sensitive, funny, and poignant dramatic play reading about motherhood, directed by Pat Henman and featuring two dozen local actors, singers and your friends and neighbours–just ahead of Mother’s Day! It’s also a fundraiser for Taghum Hall’s kitchen reno.

Nelson’s Got Talent : An Intimate Open Stage
2025-05-05 19:00 - 22:00 | Big Yellow House – 804 Stanley St, Nelson, 804 Stanley St, Nelson, Nelson, V1L1N7, Canada
Nelson’s Got Talent : An Intimate Open StageMonday 5th MayThe Big Yellow House (804 Stanley Street, Nelson)

Join us for an evening of live music and fun collaborations!
Do you sing, play an instrument, or enjoy supporting others?All are welcome, whether you are a seasoned performer or giving it a go for the first time!It’s a very laid back and supportive environment, feels like you’re jamming at home.

Kicks off at 7PM[Doors at 6:50PM]BYOBCover $10Snacks provided

There will be an array of instruments to use including guitar, bass, mandolin, cajon, and an eclectic range of percussion.
Play a crowd favorite, something you love, or even your own music!

Don’t play an instrument? No stress – we can back you up on guitar, etc.!Even better to send us the song in advance and we will make sure we back you up as best as we can

PM for more info or with any questions or song requests!

See you all on May 5th!

—-Info at www.rosagood.com/workshops

Mother’s Day Pop-up Card workshop
2025-05-09 10:00 - 14:00 | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
Nelson Museum Public Program Coordinator Stephanie Myers shows you tips and techniques for making your very own pop-up Mother’s Day card for the special people in your life! All the materials will be supplied. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Fees for the workshop are $10+GST for non-members and $5+GST for Nelson Museum members, which includes all materials needed.
Click here to sign up for a Nelson Museum membership and save $5 today on your program registration!

2025 NMAG Annual General Meeting
2025-05-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
Join the board of directors to share in the triumphs and tribulations of 2024 and look toward the next year at the NMAG annual general meeting. Attendees will be invited to participate in a discussion about the future museum update, enjoy refreshments and participate in an artist trading card maker space.
This event is open to the public, however only museum members are able to vote. To purchase or renew your membership, click here.

Kootenay Blues Society presents Dawn Tyler Watson and Steve Strongman
2025-05-15 19:00 - 21:30 | Finley’s Bar $ Grill, 705 Vernon St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4G3, Canada
Two of Canada’s top blues performers will be appearing as a dynamic duo at Finley’s in Nelson, BC on Thursday, May 15th at 7 PM. Tickets are $25.00 and are available online at kootenaybluessociety.com or by contacting Finley’s for physical tickets: PH: 250 352 5121. They will also do a workshop on Wednesday, May 14 at 7 PM in the basement of the Kootenay Co op Radios building. The workshop is by donation.

Nelson Sketch Comedy Revue: Volume II
2025-05-15 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-05-27 19:30 - 21:30 | The Capitol Theatre, 421 Victoria Street, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 5R2, Canada
After selling out the Capitol Theatre in November 2024 with the premiere of Nelson Sketch Comedy Revue, we’re back—bigger, bolder, and weirder than ever.
This show is a love letter to the phrase “Keep Nelson Weird.” It’s a live show packed with fast-paced, scripted comedy. Each scene is short, sharp, and completely original—written and performed by the cast. Expect the return of Nelson News Tonight—and if you don’t know what that is… well, we won’t spoil it for you.
What audiences said about our last show:
“That was such an amazing show! Maybe the best I’ve seen in Nelson, honestly. Please do it again!”
“I haven’t laughed that much in a long time.”
“We loved it so so much and can’t wait to see the next show!”
“PEOPLE IN THE BATHROOM CAN”T STOP TALKING ABOUT HOW GOOD THE SHOW IS!!!! AHHH!!!!!”
The Cast:
Jaymes Bowman
Michelle Hart
Emma Hill
Ruby Horton
Kait Hundt-Lippett
Ruth Krulitsky
Jonathan Ramos

With special guest, Jackie Atkins!

Directed by Michelle Hart
This 90-minute production, including an intermission, features mature content—parental discretion is advised.
Due to the incredible response to our last show, we’re thrilled to add a second performance! Don’t miss your chance to catch us at the Capitol Theatre on May 15 or May 27

Painted floor cloth workshop
2025-05-24 10:00 - 14:30, 2025-06-07 10:00 - 14:30 | Taghum Hall, 5915 Taghum Hall Rd, Nelson, V1L 6Y4
A two-part workshop teaches participants to create their own painted floorcloth: decorative mats for home and hearth. Instructor Lily Mayall’s own beautiful floorcloths embrace playful narratives, but workshop-goers are free tell their own tales. All materials are provided; more information and registration at taghumhall.ca for this workshop—a Taghum Hall kitchen renovation benefit—which runs Saturday, May 24 and Saturday, June 7, from 10am – 2:30pm.

Witches Spring Market
2025-05-25 11:00 - 17:00 | Taghum Hall, 5915 Taghum Hall Rd, Nelson, V1L 6Y4
Witch Market and interactive events!! May 25 2025 Taghum Hall 11-5

*Tarot, Palm and Oracle readers, established locally as well as reputable readers from Kelowna.

*Vendors that will put a spell on you with their witchy, wacky and spiritual wears. Not your average market!!

*Workshops every half an hour to drop in on and learn about Wicca 101, How to set a crystal grid, sacred smoking, singing and breathing, music and how to read palms.

All for $2 at the door

Still Life painting workshop w/ Cath McIntosh
2025-06-04 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-06-05 17:00 - 19:00 | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
Catherine McIntosh is your instructor for this 2-part still life painting workshop at the Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery. Bring your own objects to paint or use the items on hand. Learn tips and techniques for using light and shadow, perspective, and more.

Pre-registration is required and is $50+GST for non-members and $40+GST for Museum members, all painting materials are provided. Space is limited so register early!

Summer Lovin’ FREE Thursdays
2025-06-05 16:00 - 20:00, 2025-06-12 16:00 - 20:00 | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada

Deep Roots exhibition opening
2025-06-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
Deep Roots is the latest art/history exhibition at the Nelson Museum, which aims to explore the history of West Kootenay forestry industry, the attitudes and actions of our community to forest resources and the continuing importance of forest management to people, the environment and the economy. The exhibition examines our community’s relationship to the forest environment-both past and present, told through archival images, items from the collection, contemporary art and photography, film, and published articles.
This event is FREE and open to the public.

The Mosquitos – New Absurdist Theatre
2025-06-12 19:00 - 21:00 | The Capitol Theatre, 421 Victoria Street, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 5R2, Canada
Material Theatre Presents:

THE MOSQUITOS
“Things are changing rather quickly. We no longer share a reality”.
A group of old friends get together for a dinner party, while rumours of an unimaginable change swirl around them. How will they face total transformation?
An absurd comedy of manners with an existential heart, The Mosquitos is original new theatre written and directed by Slocan Valley playwright Marya Folinsbee. With equal parts humour and pathos, The Mosquitos reconsiders our place in the ecosystem, asking;
How do we create a coherent life together when we understand the world so differently?
A meditation on politics, relationships, (mis)information and the role of art in making meaning, The Mosquitos is inspired by absurdist classics like Eugene Ionesco’s Rhinoceros and Samuel Beckett’s Happy Days (and, by life in these times).
This world premiere features a talented ensemble of local performers and artistic team:
Written and Directed by Marya Folinsbee
Featuring Performances by:
Emily Ryan
Kozmo Sammartino
Roger Carter
Patricia McLaughlin
Karmelle Spence-Sing
Lindsay Clague
James Shaw
Aaron Pickett
Mike Funergy
Sound Designer Jeremy Sauer
Projection Designer Brian Lye
Mask & Puppet Designer Elaine Weryshko
Stage Manager Martina Avis
Technical Director Terry Brennan
Production Designer Marya Folinsbee
Creation support from The Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance.
Production support from The BC Arts Council.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.

www.materialtheatre.ca

The Mosquitos – New Absurdist Theatre
2025-06-12 19:30 - 21:30 | The Capitol Theatre, 421 Victoria Street, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 5R2, Canada
“Things are changing rather quickly. We no longer share a reality”.

A group of old friends get together for a dinner party, while rumours of an unimaginable change swirl around them.
How do we face total transformation?
An absurd comedy of manners with an existential heart, The Mosquitos is original new theatre written and directed by Slocan Valley playwright Marya Folinsbee. With equal parts humour and pathos, The Mosquitos reconsiders our place in the ecosystem, asking:How do we live in the world together when we have fundamentally different versions of reality?

A meditation on politics, relationships, (mis)information and the role of art in creating meaning, The Mosquitos is inspired by absurdist classics like Eugene Ionesco’s Rhinoceros and Samuel Beckett’s Happy Days (and by life in these times).

This world premiere features a talented ensemble of local performers and artists:
Written and Directed by Marya Folinsbee
Featuring Performances by:
Emily RyanKozmo SammartinoRoger CarterPatricia McLaughlinKarmelle Spence-SingLindsay ClagueJames ShawAaron PickettMike Funergy

Sound Designer Jeremy SauerProjection Designer Brian LyeMask & Puppet Designer Elaine WeryshkoStage Manager Martina AvisTechnical Director Terry BrennanProduction Designer Marya Folinsbee

Creation support from The Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance.Production support from The BC Arts Council.We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.
#BringingTheArtsToLife #Kootenayartist #Nelsonbc

The Mosquitos – New Absurdist Theatre
2025-06-12 19:30 - 21:30 | The Capitol Theatre, 421 Victoria Street, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 5R2, Canada
“Things are changing rather quickly. We no longer share a reality”.
A group of old friends get together for a dinner party, while rumours of an unimaginable change swirl around them. How will they face total transformation?
An absurd comedy of manners with an existential heart, The Mosquitos is original new theatre written and directed by Slocan Valley playwright Marya Folinsbee. With equal parts humour and pathos, The Mosquitos reconsiders our place in the ecosystem, asking;
How do we create a coherent life together when we understand the world so differently?
A meditation on politics, relationships, (mis)information and the role of art in making meaning, The Mosquitos is inspired by absurdist classics like Eugene Ionesco’s Rhinoceros and Samuel Beckett’s Happy Days (and, by life in these times).
This world premiere features a talented ensemble of local performers and artistic team:
Written and Directed by Marya Folinsbee
Featuring Performances by:
Emily Ryan
Kozmo Sammartino
Roger Carter
Patricia McLaughlin
Karmelle Spence-Sing
Lindsay Clague
James Shaw
Aaron Pickett
Mike Funergy
Sound Designer Jeremy Sauer
Projection Designer Brian Lye
Mask & Puppet Designer Elaine Weryshko
Stage Manager Martina Avis
Technical Director Terry Brennan
Production Designer Marya Folinsbee
Creation support from The Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance.
Production support from The BC Arts Council.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts
