Beyond Eden
In 1957, Bill Reid travelled to Haida Gwaii with a group of anthropologists to "rescue" deteriorating totem poles from Ninstints, a deserted Haida village.
The trip changed Mr. Reid's life: he began focusing on his art - ultimately resulting in some of this country's most famous images, including The Raven and the First Men and Spirit of Haida Gwaii. Victoria-based playwright-composer Bruce Ruddell has fictionalized is seminal trip and turned it into a rock musical, informed and inspired by his personal relationship with Mr. Reid. Beyond Eden, directed by Theatre Calgary's Dennis Garnhum, stars Tom Jackson and John Mann, lead singer of Spirit of the West.
In another ode to pop music, musical direction is provided by Bill Henderson of Chilliwack fame. Where: Vancouver Playhouse Theatre, 8 p.m., until Feb. 6.
Before & After
Emily Carr University alumni reflect on social, cultural and environmental transformations in this group show opening today. Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, until March 21.
Backstory: Nuu-chah-nulth Ceremonial Curtains and the Work of Ki-ke-in
These historical and contemporary curtains were created to mark family and community events, not as works of art, but their artistry can still be breathtaking. Where: Morris and Helen Belkin Art Gallery at UBC, until March 28.
MOA
The new MOA - formerly known as the Museum of Anthropology - is offering free admission for a final day as it fully re-opens after a three-year renovation (or, as MOA prefers, "reimagination").
Marsha Lederman