THAT WAS THEN
Where: Showcase Art Gallery (in Phillips Brewery), 2010 Government St., Victoria
When: Friday, June 21, 4 p.m.
Admission: Free
Why: A collection of photos from ’80s-era alternative scene in Victoria is on display during That Was Then, a mixed-media event at the gallery in Phillips Brewery on Friday. Roughly 40 shots of punk acts Infamous Scientists, the Neos, and NoMeansNo taken by photographer Emma Lee are the main attraction, but the event also features an appearance by radio broadcaster Jason Lamb (author of the book, NoMeansNo: From Obscurity to Oblivion: An Oral History) and a set by fuzz-blues duo Tremblers of Sevens. Take the opportunity to visit — it’s a rare glimpse into a time when Victoria was on the cutting edge of arts and culture.
THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE
Where: St. Mary the Virgin Anglican Church, 1701 Elgin Rd., Oak Bay, and Parkland Secondary School, 10640 McDonald Park Rd., North Saanich
When: June 21 and 23 in Oak Bay, and June 29-30 in North Saanich
Tickets: $35 ($20 for students) from
Why: Gilbert and Sullivan fans have multiple opportunities to catch this comic operetta, which runs in both Oak Bay (June 21 and 23) and North Saanich (June 29-30). The Victoria Gilbert & Sullivan Society is pulling it all together, with a complete cast of veterans and newcomers, all backed by a 30-voice choir. The music includes an ocean of memorable songs, including I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General, which has been used in everything from The Muppet Show to Married… with Children. That’s your cue; catch this production while it lasts.
HOT PINK
Where: Belfry Theatre, 1291 Gladstone Ave., Victoria
When: Saturday, June 22, 8 p.m. (doors at 7)
Tickets: $38 from
Why: The 11th annual Hot Pink fundraiser for Peers Victoria (which offers support services for current and former sex workers) is headlined by Cheesecake Burlesque Revue. Hot Pink gets underway in Fernwood Square with Ruby’s Pop Up Peepshow at 6 p.m., before moving inside for a range of performances, including one by Nanaimo’s Divinity Rising.
