Boulevard Magazine, Victoria - April/May 2017 Issue

APRIL I MAY 2017

VICTORIA LIFE AT ITS FINEST

LIGHT, BRIGHT & FRESH

WALL TO WALL

Hanging rug art is bold, beautiful and trendy

CATCH OF THE DAY Enjoy fresh and flavourful local seafood

FANTASY ISLAND New YouTube series reveals luxe Victoria

COQUITLAM 1400 United Blvd 604.524.3443

NANAIMO 1711 Bowen Rd 250.753.8900

LANGLEY 20429 Langley By-Pass 604.530.9458

M U S E A N D M E R C H A N T. C O M

VICTORIA 661 McCallum Rd 250.474.3433

48 70

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37 FEATURES 28 BEACH, OCEAN, SUN

AND MOON

On the Cover Interior of waterfront Cordova Bay home.

Photo courtesy of Seabrook Developments.

Glorious dream home

rises in Cordova Bay

By Angela Cowan

70 WALL TO WALL

Hanging rug art makes a

bold, beautiful and

practical design choice

By Jane Zatylny

42 PRECIOUS METALS

78 CATCH OF THE DAY

Minimal daywear sets the

backdrop for bold metallic

Enjoy the flavour and

jewelry

freshness of local seafood

By Lia Crowe

By Chef Heidi Fink

86 SPRING BREAK 48 FANTASY ISLAND

New Youtube series

Nixing bad habits is

good for your health

By Pamela Durkin

reveals Ãœber luxury

6

Victoria

By Chelsea Forman

28

86 78

16 42

108

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS 8 OUR CONTRIBUTORS

18

INSPIRED PEOPLE 99 FRONT ROW

Chinatown

12 EDITOR’S LETTER

artists

By Angela Cowan

What’s on this month

By Robert Moyes

108 SECRETS & LIVES

The moral to the story

Cruising with

INSPIRED STYLE

37 TALKING

WITH TESS

14

Gregory Marshall

Marian de

King of the Sea:

By Hans Tammemagi

Monye

Alan McGillivray

By Lia Crowe

By Tess van Straaten

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INSPIRED CHEFS

92 TRAVEL NEAR

Juan Bochenski,

Sip, savour and swirl:

executive chef,

Divine wine in the

the Q at the Empress

Cowichan Valley

By Susan Lundy

114 OUTTAKE

Photo by Don Denton

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OUR CONTRIBUTORS

ANGELA COWAN

JEN CLARK

LIA CROWE

WRITER: UNSEEN SPACES

MAKEUP ARTIST: PRECIOUS METALS

BOULEVARD PHOTO STYLIST UNSEEN SPACES

PAGE 18

PAGE 18

PAGE 42

“From vibrant watercolours and bronze sculptures to alchemical collages and Looking Glass-esque drawings, the incredibly varied body of work of the Chinatown artists absolutely blew me away with the sheer amount of talent contained within a couple city blocks.

I cannot wait to see them all on the Unseen Spaces tour!” Angela Cowan is a writer, editor and acupuncturist who contributes regularly to Boulevard.

“Copper, whites, wood and linen, silver and steel! These were some of the ingredients that made this shoot come to life. I was grateful to spend my day working with a talented group of women on International Women’s Day. It was a reminder of how fortunate I am.” Jen is a Victoria-based makeup artist.

"l live a typical life with my family, a cat, a dog on a residential street in Victoria.

But in a parallel universe somewhere, I’m living as an artist in a brick Chinatown loft among painters, performance artists and general eccentric types. So I am very much looking forward to the Unseen Spaces artist tour to get a glimpse into the creative spring that bubbles throughout Chinatown." Lia is a stylist, creative director, photographer and writer with a long history of working in the fashion industry.

DON DENTON

PAMELA DURKIN

CATHIE FERGUSON

BOULEVARD PHOTOGRAPHER CATCH OF THE DAY

WRITER: SPRING BREAK

PHOTOGRAPHER: PRECIOUS METALS

PAGE 86

PAGE 42

PAGE 78

"Looking for an appropriate location, we photographed prawns for our seafood feature on Victoria's Dallas Road waterfront. We were obviously a curious sight for passing pedestrians on the Ogden Point breakwater who kept stopping to ask if we'd fished the prawns out of the water ourselves. (We hadn't!)"

Don has photographed numerous highprofile events, including the Olympics, World Hockey Championships and a Royal wedding.

GROUP PUBLISHER Penny Sakamoto ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Mario Gedicke 250.891.5627 EDITOR Susan Lundy CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lily Chan ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lia Crowe DESIGN Lorianne Koch Michelle Gjerde Claudia Gross ADVERTISING Mario Gedicke Pat Brindle ASSOCIATE GROUP Oliver Sommer PUBLISHER

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“Spring is such a glorious season--it’s synonymous with renewal, making it the perfect time to let go of bad habits and embrace healthier ones. After working on this piece for Boulevard, I’ve identified two nasty habits I need to “break-up” with and I’ve committed to kiss them goodbye!” Pamela is a freelance health writer and nutritional consultant whose work has appeared in Boulevard, Eat, Reader's Digest, Alive, Spa Business and more.

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION Sarah Dodd 250.480.3208 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Angela Cowan, Lia Crowe, Pamela Durkin, Heidi Fink, Chelsea Forman, Robert Moyes, Hans Tammemagi, Tess van Straaten, Jane Zatylny CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lia Crowe, Don Denton, Cathie Ferguson

“We were fortunate to photograph at a friend’s gorgeous rustic modern house in the Uplands for this month’s fashion story. The wooden walls added a sense of serenity and had me longing for a Gulf Islands getaway.” Cathie is a freelance lifestyle and commercial photographer based in Victoria.

ADVERTISE Boulevard Magazine is Victoria’s leading lifestyle magazine, celebrating 26 years of publishing in Greater Victoria.

To advertise or to learn more about advertising opportunities please send us an email at info@blvdmag.ca Mailing Address: 818 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC, V8W 1E4 Tel: 250.381.3484 Fax: 250.386.2624 info@blvdmag.ca blvdmag.ca

Victoria Boulevard ® is a registered trademark of Black Press Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Black Press Group Ltd. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents, both implied or assumed, of any advertisement in this publication. Printed in Canada.

Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42109519.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

HEIDI FINK

CHELSEA FORMAN

ROBERT MOYES

WRITER: CATCH OF THE DAY

WRITER: FANTASY ISLAND

WRITER: FRONT ROW

PAGE 48

PAGE 99

PAGE 78

"As always, I had the most fun at the photo shoot for this article. Not only were we outdoors on a sunny day, and cooking with the freshest, most delicious fish, but I got to be a model for about 20 minutes!" Heidi Fink is a chef, food writer and culinary instructor, specializing in local foods and ethnic cuisines.

“I interviewed realtor, Jason Binab and Silver Arrow Cars owner, Tim Quocksister about their joint YouTube series showcasing multi-million dollar cars and properties in Victoria. I was amazed to uncover the hard reality of the fantasy lifestyle in Victoria, that slides quietly under the mainstream pulse of the outwardly humble city."

Chelsea is a writer of all topics lifestyle.

She has also recently completed her first young reader’s novel.

“Front Row has a yen for musicals this issue, from the Disney delights of Beauty and the Beast and the black comedy of Sunset Boulevard to POV’s debut of the remarkable contemporary opera Lilies. And Alberta-born Ronnie Burkett unleashes the dark art of political puppetry.” A born and bred Victoria native, Robert is a longtime freelancer and editor whose focus these days is arts journalism.

HANS TAMMEMAGI

TESS VAN STRAATEN

JANE ZATYLNY

WRITER: CRUISING WITH GREGORY MARSHALL

WRITER: KING OF THE SEA

WRITER: WALL TO WALL

PAGE 37

PAGE 70

PAGE 108

“Visiting and writing about a naval architect who designs worldclass yachts in the middle of an apple orchard was an unusual but enjoyable experience.” Hans lives on Pender Island and writes articles and books about travel, environment, First Nations, and odd, quirky things.

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“One of my favourite days reporting, in a 20-year career, was going out on a Prince of Whales whale watching boat off Victoria. It was a banner year for orcas and we got some amazing footage as the playful whales swam right up to our boat — they were just as interested in us as we were in them. It was so interesting to interview Alan and learn how he turned a glorified paper route into BC’s biggest whale watching business.” Tess is an award-winning journalist and television personality.

“The idea of putting carpets on the wall initially conjured up thoughts of a rec room from the 1970s. But I soon learned that the right rug can add a great hit of colour and texture to any wall. This is definitely a trend worth considering for your home.”

Jane is a magazine writer, editor, communications specialist and regular contributor to Boulevard.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

A moral to the grad dress story

BY SUSAN LUNDY

PHOTO BY ARNOLD LIM

found dresses in LoJo boutique shops within about three hours. And because the dresses were registered to avoid duplication, no one else turned up to grad in the same outfit.

Shoes and jewelry followed. Then — surprise!

— it turned out they also needed dresses for the after grad party. (Also found almost immediately on Johnson Street.) Everything was reasonably priced, until you add in the Portland trip and then the cache probably cost more than their final year of high school.

“Buy local” would be the moral of this story— which brings us to this issue of Boulevard. We have “buy local” covered. Our fashion story features some of the very best in local clothing and jewelry outlets.

Pick up fresh fish — it’s spot prawns season — at any number of Victoria specialty seafood stores and then check out Chef Heidi Fink’s piece on cooking up the ocean’s bounty in Catch of the Day. Victoria is rife with artists and in April, art-lovers have a chance to check out studios in Chinatown as described in this issue’s Inspired People section.

For something a little different in the world of art, writer Jane Zatylny checks out the new interior design trend of hanging beautifully woven rugs on walls.

Need a luxury yacht built? Naval architect Gregory Marshall, highlighted in Secrets and Lives, could be the man.

Luxury lifestyles abound in this edition of Boulevard: check out the story on a new, locally produced YouTube series showing off snazzy cars and high-end homes in Fantasy Island; take a tour through a stunning, waterfront home in Cordova Bay; travel on a journey of discovery into the world of wines on Vancouver Island.

And as always, meet a collection of interesting people from the Q’s executive chef, Juan Bochenski, to the style-savvy Marian de Monye and “King of the Sea,” the visionary Alan McGillivray.

Boulevard readers are definitely in for a treat with this edition.

And for those who take my advice and shop locally for special occasion outfits — you’ll have lots of extra time to sit down, relax and enjoy it.

PHOTO BY LIA CROWE

A

S I WATCH MY ELDER DAUGHTER walk across the stage to collect her MFA degree this May, I will be loving her gown — also called an “academic dress.” How blessedly simple: it’s black, baggy, universal.

This is the time of year many head out to purchase special occasion dresses — grad, wedding, summertime galas. I’ve embarked on the delightful journey of “finding the perfect grad outfit” twice, and one of those excursions comes with a moral to the story.

The first time around, my elder daughter — whose previous experience with heels amounted to half-inch-tall soccer cleats — decided to totter down the bleacher steps to her diploma in five-inch heels, while it seemed the entire auditorium held its collective breath. She donned a dress that happened to be the very first she tried on … but chosen only after rejecting the 100 others that followed.

My younger daughter and her best friend were adamant they couldn’t buy anything in Victoria because obviously someone else would turn up to grad wearing the same dress. After they undertook fruitless shopping trips to Vancouver and up-island, the fellow mom and I decided to take the girls on a dress-shopping road trip to Portland.

Somehow, we thought it would be easier there.

Shari and I knew the chance of our daughters finding dresses early on was unlikely, but there they were at our first stop — a vintage clothing store, yet — totally grooving on their finds. My daughter emerged from the dressing room in a hideous orange gown, while her friend appeared in a blackand blue-sequined monstrosity.

They were so taken with the dresses that Shari and I became terribly conflicted. On the one hand, the dresses were horrible. But on the other hand, it was our role as moms to be supportive of their burgeoning fashion tastes. And ... could it be they’d found dresses (well below budget) at the very first stop? We carried on for the rest of the day, but the girls couldn’t find anything they liked as much as those vintage gowns. It was only as we headed back to the store that the girls revealed — ha, ha, ha — they’d given us an Oscar-worthy, day-long performance and, no, they didn’t want those dresses.

We left Portland with a good story but no bags containing grad dresses.

When they grudgingly decided to try Victoria stores, both girls

I’VE EMBARKED ON THE DELIGHTFUL JOURNEY OF “FINDING THE PERFECT GRAD OUTFIT” TWICE, AND ONE OF THOSE EXCURSIONS COMES WITH A MORAL TO THE STORY.

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Boulevard editor Susan Lundy is a former journalist and two-time recipient of the prestigious Jack Webster Award. Her award-winning stories have appeared in numerous magazines and newspapers. She is also the author of Heritage Apples: A New Sensation (Touchwood, 2013.)

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inspiredSTYLE

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STYLE INSPIRATIONS

STYLE ICON: Rosie HuntingtonWhiteley. PIECE OF ART: Transitions at Dusk by Adelle Andrew. “I thought the painting was depicting a European harbour in the 1800s; my husband thought it was a moose swamp. Turns out it’s a moose swamp.

It just makes me love it even more.”

FAVOURITE FASHION DESIGNER: Max Azria (BCBG), Kate Spade.

FASHION

UNIFORM: Michael Kors dress and Franco Sarto double strap ankle boots. ALLTIME FAVOURITE PIECE: Club Monaco maxi dress in aubergine: “I wore it so many times it became see-through!”

CURRENTLY COVETING: “Poliee” bow detail sculpted dress by Ted Baker.

FAVOURITE PAIR OF SHOES: Pewter sequin heels with zipper by Michael Kors. FAVOURITE DAYBAG: “Cameron Street Little Babe” bag in white by Kate Spade. FAVOURITE JEWELRY PIECE OR DESIGNER: My wedding ring V2.0, designed with Marsha Mara. FASHION OBSESSION: “Madge” leather cutout sandals by Michael Kors.

LIFE FAVOURITE LOCAL RESTAURANT: Il Terrazzo. "The ambience, service and food are always done to perfection, and my husband and I have celebrated many big nights there.”

FAVOURITE COCKTAIL: Anything at Little Jumbo, or a 20th Century cocktail. ALBUM ON CURRENT ROTATION: My old school rap playlists. FLOWER: White tulips. FAVOURITE CITY TO VISIT: Whistler. FAVOURITE HOTEL: The Carlyle (New York), The Palace

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(San Francisco), The Wedgewood (Vancouver) – “I love anything with old world opulence." FAVOURITE APP: Instagram.

FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE WHOLE WORLD: "My parent’s dock on Sproat Lake, a scorching breeze blowing, surrounded by lounging siblings, children diving & friends making me a drink.”

O

N A WINDY AND SUNNY AFTERNOON that hinted of spring days to come, I found myself winding along Prospect Lake Road to meet Marian de Monye to talk about life, style and where they intersect. I turned down a long driveway that opened to a 10acre property, where Marian lives with her husband and two children in a farmhouse, with a little orchard and perfectly picturesque barn currently under restoration.

“For work I'm generally quite dressed up. Island Savings has always been pretty stylish and hip for the banking world. I enjoy coming into a company where people really get dressed up and are fashionable, even though it's a professional type of industry.”

For her personal style, Marian likes quite a polished look “but one that includes a little bit of creativity and personality — a colour or an accessory that’s a little bit different.”

Marian brings her educational background in science from UBC to her love of marketing: “A big part of marketing is an innate gut reaction to projects and messages, but good marketers usually have a lot of science behind them. I love that combination of creativity and science in marketing — you’re constantly recreating and constantly experimenting to see what works.”

Living in a somewhat rural area is familiar to Marian as she grew up, one of five siblings, on Sproat Lake near Port Alberni, exploring in the woods and swimming in the many arms of the lake. So it’s no surprise that one of her passions outside of work is trail running. “If I could pass something down to my children, it would be a love of the beauty in nature. Learning to appreciate and having a curiosity about nature and all of the incredible science that is contained in it.”

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PRINT MAGAZINE: Vanity Fair and Modern Farmhouse. COFFEE TABLE BOOK: An Eye for Design by Allegra Hicks. LAST GREAT READ: The Wonder by Emma Donoghue. BOOK CURRENTLY READING: “I’m currently reading a stack of interior design magazines so I can finalize our farmhouse reno, lots of Country French and French Style.” BEAUTY NECESSARY INDULGENCE: A good trail run followed by a lavender bubble bath. MOISTURIZER: BB cream by smashbox. MUST HAVE HAIR PRODUCT: Light Elements Smoothing Fluid by Aveda. BEAUTY SECRET: Lots of SPF.

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inspiredCHEFS

JUAN BOCHENSKI, EXECUTIVE RESTAURANT CHEF, Q AT THE EMPRESS TEXT BY SUSAN LUNDY PHOTOS BY DON DENTON

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QUICK FACTS:

• Age: 45 • Born in Bahía Blanca, Argentina and grew up in Buenos Aires • Trained at: Chez Nico, London; La Taillevent, France; Marque and Four in Hand Bistro in Australia • At Q at the Empress since January 2017 • Previously worked at restaurants in Europe, Australia, US and the Caribbean

Salad prepared by Chef Juan Bochenski.

WHAT ARE YOU BEST KNOWN FOR AS A CHEF? I am best known as a

ANYTHING ELSE WE SHOULD KNOW? I'm working on new menus at

fun guy in the kitchen! I make sure that everyone tries my empanadas and chimichurri. As we spend many hours together in the kitchen, I like to have fun and listen to my team’s ideas and points of view. We are constantly learning and looking for new ways to do things. My rule is to “never lose the passion and curiosity.”

Q, making sure there is something for everyone. I love to meet and greet so come and say hello.

WHAT ARE THE 10 OR SO MOST IMPORTANT INGREDIENTS IN YOUR PANTRY? Good olive oils, balsamic vinegar, organic flour, Yerba mate and good coffee. I also like to have spices from around the world like smoked pimemtón, vadouvan, Ras el hanout, chiles from New Mexico and, of course, chimichurri and to never run out of dulce de leche. I cannot wait to see what BC has to offer — the mushrooms, the salmon — oh, and I always love fresh crusty bread.

FAVOURITE DISH TO COOK AND EAT ON A WARM, SPRING DAY? A nice asado (Argentinian barbecue), slow grilled show ribs, chorizo, a “picada” or charcuterie platter to start with, as well as empanadas and a Malbec or a clerico or white sangria to drink with family and friends.

WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO ITEM WHEN SAMPLING OTHER CHEFS’ FARE? I let the chef serve me anything. It gives the chef the freedom to showcase anything based on produce and availability.

HOBBIES? Books, Minecraft or LEGO with my son; spending time with my daughter in her never-ending drama acting “scenes,” and long walks in the forest with family and dog.

CAN YOU SHARE A QUICK RECIPE FOR ENJOYMENT THIS SPRING? Spot Prawns and Pico de gallo 2 -3 lbs fresh spot prawns, peeled 8 limes, squeezed 8 lemons, squeezed Bring a medium-sized pot with water to a boil and salt the water (for every litre water, 20 grams salt). Remove from the stove and add the prawns, steeping them for 1 minute. Cool the prawns over iced water or place straight into a fridge. Once cool, marinate with lemon and lime mixture for 10 minutes, and then remove and discard juice.

2 large tomatoes, diced ½ sweet onion red, diced ½ bunch cilantro, diced 1 birds eye chili pepper, diced ½ tsp garlic, chopped fine 2 Tbsp olive oil 3 Tbsp lemon juice Salt to taste Mix all the ingredients and season with lemon, salt and olive oil accordingly. Refrigerate until needed.

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footwear and accessories The Atrium 1323 Blanshard Street headoverheelsvictoria.ca 250.590.5154

Hidden Spaces by Kristofer Parley

UN

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inspiredPEOPLE

SEEN SPACES A MAGICAL MYSTERY ART TOUR

BY ANGELA COWAN

PHOTOS BY DON DENTON 19

W

ITH ITS NARROW ALLEYWAYS OF twisting brick walls and the ghosts of opium dens long since boarded up, Victoria’s Chinatown has both history — it’s the oldest in Canada — and mystery. It has attracted artists and those with a creative slant for decades.

“It’s such an interesting neighbourhood. Come here in the day and it’s a living, breathing community. At night, the businesses close up like clockwork and it transforms into this lovely, magical place,” says Roshan Vickery, who’s the brainchild behind Unseen Spaces, a new series of studio tours that explores the back corners and tucked away spaces where art is flourishing in Chinatown. “This is basically all contained within two city blocks, and it’s a little bit of magic.”

Last year saw two tours through the neighbourhood, each creating more demand for another. This April 22, Vickery is again inviting the public into a dozen unique spaces to meet the geniuses behind the art, and see where all that magic happens.

“The studio spaces that exist are incredible,” says Vickery, a film projectionist whose studio is one of the stops along the tour.

“It’s not like anything else you could experience.”

“Our place is a mixture of old heritage brick and height, combined with a dishwasher,” laughs Denise Nicholls, coorganizer and fellow artist on the tour. She and her husband, G.J. Pearson, live and create on Herald Street, in a building that was once used as a cold storage warehouse, and then as rehearsal space for local punk bands. It was nearly obliterated in a massive fire and finally rebuilt. Filled to the rafters with paintings,

crafted jewelry and “crazy machines that fly and flap their wings,” their whole space is an “elaborate profusion of intricate wonders; a feast for the senses,” says Nicholls.

Not far down the block, above a maze of right-angled hallways and heavy doors, is the studio space of celebrated author and artist Nick Bantock, who says finding this spot was like a convergence of time and predestination.

“I feel like there are parts of your life, where it’s like stepping back and meeting something that had already happened,” says Bantock, who only moved into the space about six months ago. “That’s what this was like. I knew exactly what pictures I’d put up. I knew exactly where I’d put the furniture.”

Bantock’s studio walls are adorned with his paintings, his three-dimensional works, all swirling with colour and gold dust and alchemy, and achingly beautiful. The floorboards are over 100 years old, and run in a diagonal pattern beneath his feet. Like much of Chinatown’s architecture, the space is “slightly out of kilter,” he says.

This April will be Bantock’s first time exhibiting on the Unseen Spaces tour, though he attended the previous one.

“It’s such a mixed bag of art and work,” he says. “I saw some very, very good people.”

Artist Liz Dempsey is joining the tour for her third go round, showing her work in the Bubble Tea Place on Fisgard, and sharing the space with Kristofer Parley and Nathan Davis.

“Chinatown’s been my zone ever since I moved here about a

“IT’S SUCH A MIXED BAG OF ART AND WORK.”

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dozen years ago,” says Dempsey.

“It’s one of the most beautiful areas in the whole city. Just the weird mystery that lingers, the life, the lights, the gates, the cherry trees, the amazing spaces.”

Her own work straddles the lines where myth and history and legend intersect with reality, with characters that are sometimes sweet, and sometimes have a Lewis Carroll-like unpredictability.

It’s a style that resonates well with the feel of the tour, which celebrates the discovery of hidden pockets of the city and seeing behind closed doors.

“It’s like getting that VIP pass backstage,” says Kristofer Parley.

“When you’re able to meet the artist, see how they talk and how they act, see how they get their inspiration. It’s great to be a part of that creative energy.”

Parley first visited Chinatown with Davis when the pair came here on their honeymoon, and it swiftly captivated them both.

“The positive and exciting energy drew us here and I’m super stoked

Autoretrato — paper, pigment, wax and wood by Miles Lowry.

618 Broughton St. I 778 406 1600 I bagheeravictoria.ca

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“IT’S ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL AREAS IN THE WHOLE CITY. JUST THE WEIRD MYSTERY THAT LINGERS, THE LIFE, THE LIGHTS, THE GATES, THE CHERRY TREES, THE AMAZING SPACES.” Chinatown artists seen here are: (back row) Hilarie Ann Higgins, Kristofer Parley, Nathan NAZO Davis, David Epp,(middle row) Miles Lowry, Mitchell Villa, Jimbo, Liz Dempsey, GJ Pearson, Michel DesRochers, Melanie Furtado, (front row) Roshan Vickery, David Ferguson, Hélène Cyr, Denise Nicholls and Nick Bantock.

to be a part of this community,” says Davis. “Kris and I moved here just over three years ago without really knowing anyone, and we were welcomed right away.”

The couple’s individual mediums run down different paths, but show well together, adds Davis. “It brings in totally different people.”

Parley’s incredibly vibrant watercolours take local scenes and imbue them with his love of his community. (“It’s definitely not your grandmother’s watercolour,” he laughs.) Davis’s “micro graffiti trains” show off his childhood inspirations from movies, television and video games on six-inch model trains he’s weathered to look aged and rusty.

Around the corner on Government Street, Miles Lowry’s apartment awaits at the end of a long hallway, overflowing with towers of antique suitcases, stacks of paintings and potted plants that have rainforest aspirations, stretching towards the raised ceiling. Sculpted figures hang from the walls — a serene woman with a belly heavy with child, faces in repose, a collection of torsos and bodies succumbing to the passage of time with rusted cracks and dissolving edges.

Lowry and his partner and fellow artist and dancer David Ferguson signed on for their third time showing on the tour as well, but they’re keeping the details under wraps for now.

“We paint, sculpt, make music, write,” says Lowry, who’s 22

lived in his building for about 25 years, and has been captivated

by Chinatown for most of his life.

“When I was a teenager, I haunted this neighbourhood looking for treasures,” he says. “There were things here no one was paying attention to.”

The holdovers from what was once a somewhat derelict part of town continue to inspire those who relish a little bit of colourful history, and where it was once the haven of artists thanks to cheap rents, creative types are now flocking back to the area.

“What’s most interesting to me is there’s a revival in arts in this community,” says Lowry.

As for the tour, he just smiles and adds, “It’s full of surprises.”

Unseen Spaces will also delve into the worlds of painters Nicole Sleeth, Beverley Thompson, Michel DesRochers and Mitchell Villa, photographers Simon DesRochers and Hélène Cyr, sculptor Melanie Furtado, musician and multimedia artists David Epp and Hilarie Ann Higgins, and Jimbo, a set and costume designer and performance artist.

Tickets are $25, with $5 from each donated to Suddenly Dance Theatre, a non-profit dedicated to providing opportunities for dancers and choreographers, and to increasing the public’s understanding and appreciation of dance. For more information, email denisekathleen@shaw.ca.

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PAUL STANDS AT THE EDGE OF THE PATIO AND BREATHES IN THE GREY DAY AND THE SALT AIR, SAYING “YOU JUST CAN’T BUY THAT SOUND.”

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I

T’S A GREY AND DRIZZLING spring day — secretly one of my favourite kinds — when I arrive in Cordova Bay, set to tour Paul Regensburg’s dream home: a house built against a cliff, rising over three levels up from the beach.

A few short steps down from the unassuming entranceway at street level, and I’m suddenly and instantly insulated from the traffic noise just behind me, the hum of passing cars replaced by the faint rumble of waves from far below.

Paul answers the door with a friendly hello and ushers me in from the rain, but all the regular “how do you dos” and “may I take your coats” fall away as we come into the main living area, and I am literally stopped in my tracks by the view.

A double row of floor to ceiling windows, 16 feet high, frames one of the most incredible ocean expanses I’ve ever seen on this island.

Paul’s smile widens as he takes in the view like someone who’s just seeing the ocean for the first time.

“It’s different every single day,” he says, before assuring me that it’s even more spectacular in full sun.

Exposed beams the shade of sautéed honey stretch the length of the ceiling, warming up a clean and cool minimalist style throughout the living area and kitchen. The far corner boasts a linear gas fireplace with west coast style driftwood laid out inside. The hearth above is a large window giving yet another vantage of the ocean. A sea-green recliner, throw pillows and a pair of decorative sea-glass-like bottles all add pops of colour into the mix.

“The primary motivation was, how can we [Paul and his girlfriend Janet] make a beach house that’s West Coast, contemporary, modern, somewhat minimalistic and stylish,” he says. “We wanted it to be beach and ocean, but also sun and moon.”

It was lunar inspiration that actually spurred him to add the upper bank of windows in the living area, he says.

“There’s this great big orange moon that rises over the San Juan islands. [It] goes travelling across there,” he points at the upper windows, “and it’s just incredible. It looks like it should be a movie effect.”

There are only a few pieces of art on the walls, and clear surfaces throughout.

“We decided we were going to be clean and let the ocean be the art,” he adds.

That clean aesthetic carries over into the kitchen, with a few sleek stainless steel appliances on the counter, a small coffee station, hidden side-by-side fridges and glossy white cabinetry with no handles to distract from the smooth surfaces.

Perhaps most interesting about the topmost level of the home

“I STARTED OUT WITH JUST WANTING TO CHANGE MY ROOF,” LAUGHS PAUL AS HE EXPLAINS HOW THE FULL-SCALE RENOVATION GOT STARTED.

27

“WE WANTED IT TO BE BEACH AND OCEAN, BUT ALSO SUN AND MOON."

28

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This is not an offering for sale. An offering may only be made by Disclosure Statement. These plans and renderings are inteded to fullyfor or sale. completely represent product.

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REGISTER REGISTER NOW NOW AT AT WESTHILLSBC.COM WESTHILLSBC.COM This is not an offering for sale. An offering may only be made by Disclosure Statement. These plans and renderings are not intended to fully or completely represent the final product. Prices subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. This is not an offering for sale. An offering may only be made by Disclosure Statement. These plans and renderings are not intended to fully or completely represent the final product. Prices subject to change without notice. E. & O.E.

though, is that it used to be the master bedroom.

“I started out with just wanting to change my roof,” laughs Paul as he explains how the full-scale renovation got started.

With its original, flat roof, the house would take on water in the rainy seasons, so Paul applied for a variance to build a sloped roof to solve the problem.

“When I found out how high we were allowed to go, I thought, let’s go big,” he says.

Nine feet of windows grew to 16 feet, and the extra glass meant an engineer had to be brought in to sort out the weight distribution.

“We literally blew the roof off the place.”

The main living area and kitchen then got moved from the second floor to the top to take advantage of the breathtaking view, and the master suite took over the middle of the house, with an amount of space Paul calls “almost obscene.”

It was the collaborative effort of architect Randall Recinos, and general contractor and CEO of Seabrook Developments Pepe Martinez.

“I’ve done a lot of renos and new homes in my life,” says Pepe, joining us on the tour. “This is a big project, and I liked the challenge.”

He and Paul reminisce about the job, the view, the ocean, as we make our way downstairs past an office to the master suite, which has my second favourite view: a luxurious soaker tub tucked beneath an ocean-view window just across the room from another gas fireplace.

30

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The tub, glassed-in shower and double sinks are integrated into the open bedroom design so that it all carries a spa-like feel, complete with heated tile not only in the bathroom, but in the shower itself.

The suite has its own private deck — and a spiral staircase leading down to the main patio — and I can easily imagine spending entire days here.

We descend one more set of stairs to the lowermost floor, home to two guest bedrooms and a TV room complete with bar and walkout access to the patio.

“This is the room my friends never want to leave,” laughs Paul.

Just beyond the sliding glass doors, an outdoor gas fireplace sits in the middle of a circle of chairs, well-used in the warmer months.

The breaking ocean waves get louder as we step outside.

Paul stands at the edge of the patio and breathes in the grey day and the salt air.

“You just can’t buy that sound.”

We end our tour right down on the beach, with our shoes pressing into the soft sand and the crash of the waves behind us. Paul points down the beach to a little house with a suite where he lived when he first moved to Victoria in 2000, and then to another house a few lots closer, where he rented a handful of years later. For more than 10 years, he walked this beach, dreaming about owning his own patch of oceanfront, before he finally made it happen in 2010 when he purchased this home.

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Now, a year after construction wrapped up, he says “it’s pretty meaningful for me” to be settled in his own home in Cordova Bay. Paul looks up at his renovated and rebuilt home, a realized dream many years in the making.

“I just kept getting pulled back to Cordova Bay,” he says. “It’s such a special place.”

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TALKING WITH TESS

KING of the SEA

“VISIONARY” ALAN MCGILLIVRAY HAS A WHALE OF A TIME AT WORK

BY TESS VAN STRAATEN PHOTOS BY DON DENTON

Alan McGillivray and his daughter, Elspeth McGillivray.

A

LAN MCGILLIVRAY HAS A PASSION for the ocean.

He grew up on the water in Saanich’s Ten Mile Point neighbourhood where he was always out boating and fishing.

“I have lots of salt water in my boots and salt in my blood,” says McGillivray, the owner Prince of Whales, British Columbia’s largest whale watching company.

But the entrepreneurial mariner also had a head for business and after completing an engineering degree at Queens University and a Masters in business administration at the University of Western Ontario, McGillivray returned to the coast — keen to combine his passions.

“I always knew I wanted to build an ocean-side business,” explains McGillivray. “I was looking for either a business to buy like a tugboat company or an idea.”

McGillivray settled on a water taxi business that would be based out of Sidney and service the Gulf Islands.

“Nobody was doing it very well there because no one had a decent boat,” he says. “I researched the boats in the rest of British Columbia and [found] heavy-duty aluminum boats, tough as nails, that could go out in the middle of the night in storms.”

McGillivray ordered one of the 12-passenger skiffs and in the summer of 1993, Inter Island Watch Ltd. was launched. The company initially undertook runs across Saanich Inlet but after a few months, the Times Colonist approached McGillivray to deliver newspaper bundles to the Gulf Islands.

“We signed a five-year contract and all my friends joked, ‘there’s McGillivray with a brand new $100,000 water taxi and he had to get a paper route to pay for it,’” the father of three

“THE WHOLE MARINE TOURISM AND ECO-TOURISM INDUSTRY HAS GROWN SIGNIFICANTLY OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS AS PEOPLE LOOK FOR MORE EXPERIENTIAL THINGS TO DO.” recalls. “We were out there in the middle of the night hustling to Salt Spring and the other islands.”

The following summer, McGillivray got a call from Canada Post, who’d heard about his cargo run and wanted him to do the mail run to Pender, Mayne, Galiano and Saturna. He signed another five-year contract and combined the runs, but they were back at the dock by 8 o’clock in the morning with nothing to do.

That same summer, Victoria hosted the Commonwealth Games and it gave McGillivray an idea.

“I saw the whale watching boats in the Inner Harbour and my boat was better,” he explains. “The Queen came to town and all the headlines in August said, ‘Prince and Princess of Wales to Divorce’ so I decided to get another boat and re-brand.”

The water taxis were moved to the Inner Harbour and were full on the first day the new Prince of Whales business launched in 1995.

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“We’d do the cargo run at night, have a crew change and do three whale watching trips a day,” says McGillivray. “It was really fun and one boat was getting about 18 hours of use a day, all revenue-generating.”

The next summer, Prince of Whales started adding zodiacs and in 2005, launched the Ocean Magic, a 74-passenger boat that made whale watching more accessible for more people. Ocean Magic II soon followed, as the company expanded to Vancouver and started sight-seeing day trips between Vancouver and Victoria.

“We’ve grown every year pretty well for 22 years and we’re not slowing down,” says McGillivray. “The whole marine tourism and eco-tourism industry has grown significantly over the last few years as people look for more experiential things to do. They don’t just want to sit on a tour bus and be driven around.”

McGillivray’s youngest daughter, 22-year-old Elspeth, is now learning the management ropes after spending several summers working at the family business while she was going to school.

“It’s great to see all aspects of the business and I live with my

“I REALLY THINK HE’S A VISIONARY IN THAT SENSE BECAUSE HE’S ALWAYS THINKING ABOUT WHERE TO GO NEXT.”

new look

BEFORE

dad so we quite literally talk about work all day long. I’m learning a lot,” says Elspeth McGillivray, who supervises office operations. “I love how dynamic it is and that every day is different.”

But it hasn’t been easy. With 13 vessels and close to 100 staff during the peak season, the elder McGillivray says effectively managing a seasonal business is the biggest challenge.

“It’s always very disappointing when October rolls around and our customer base thins out and almost goes down to just a trickle in the winter,” he admits. “Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to figure out a counter-seasonal business to keep all these people on our books and employed.”

After more than two decades and hundreds of thousands of customers, McGillivray’s constantly looking for new ideas. In April, the newest vessel in the fleet — a sleek catamaran called the Salish Sea Dream will take over the Vancouver to Victoria run just as V2V and the Clipper prepare to launch passenger ferry service between the cities.

“It seems like every year we have something new and he’s always trying to find a competitive edge,” says Elspeth. “I really think he’s a visionary in that sense because he’s always thinking about where to go next.”

But for McGillivray, who says his biggest mistake was probably being a little too conservative over the years and not being more daring, there’s nothing like being out on the water.

“You can step on a boat and leave all your cares and worries behind you,” he says. “Every day on the ocean is different — the light’s different, the sea conditions are different and even the clouds over the Olympics are different. It’s just a wholly satisfying experience.”

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FASHION

Textured off-shoulder dress ($275) by Fine Paris at Bagheera Boutique; hand-etched domed copper earrings ($58), forged copper bracelet with patina ($68), textured copper bracelet ($48) and hammered brass bracelet ($58), all hand-crafted by local designer Linda Rajotte; metallic copper leather sandals ($144)

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PRECIOUS METALS

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PHOTOS BY CATHIE FERGUSON

Ultra-spare, minimal daywear this season — in white, bone, ivory and cream — sets the perfect backdrop for a decidedly bold, metallic trend, which is cropping up in jewelry, accessories and detailing.

Shiny silver and gold, muted copper and brass — showcase your precious metals in layers that are all light, bright and creamy.

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White drape vest ($169), linen cream pants ($149) and matching cream sleeveless shirt ($89) by Yuvita; copper cuff ($89), copper leaf earrings ($69) and chunky brass necklace ($189) all by local jewelry designer Mia’s Metals, and all clothes and jewelry at AurÊa Gems and Essential Luxuries.

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Long knit dress ($510) and metallic scarf ($465)

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• Model: Lindsay Kryczka represented by Coultish Management • Makeup and hair: Jen Clark, in-house makeup artist for COSMEDICA using glo•MINERALS makeup • Styling and production assistant: Sierra Lundy Photographed on location at a private home in The Uplands

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FEATURE STORY

FANTASY

Island

NEW YOUTUBE SERIES REVEALS UBER LUXURY VICTORIA

BY CHELSEA FORMAN

Realtor Jason Binab, along with director and videographer Richard Fulop, film the first episode of a new YouTube series.

48

PHOTOS BY DON DENTON

THE SERIES OFFERS A CHANCE FOR DREAMERS AND POTENTIAL BUYERS ALIKE TO TAKE A LOOK INSIDE SOME OF VANCOUVER ISLAND’S PRICIEST PADS. 49

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102-7851 East Saanich Road Saanichton, B.C. V8M 2B4

Joel Friesen, business manager at Silver Arrow Cars, bursts with excitement as he reveals the Lamborghini Huracán LP 610 that Jason Binab will drive for the filming of the YouTube episode.

V

ICTORIA REALTOR JASON BINAB HAS PARTNERED with Silver Arrow Cars owner Tim Quocksister and business manager Joel Friesen to develop a YouTube series exposing Victoria’s best kept secret: the ultra-luxurious side of an undeniably humble city.

The series showcases magnificent cars and properties, while revealing the ultimate fantasy lifestyle on island time.

Fantasy is a fascinating concept. Perhaps you fantasize about owning rare art or a Hermès Birkin bag, or to travel the world.

The point is, no matter how unrealistic your fantasy, it puts thoughts in motion and inspires hard work. From fantasy we get hope, and from hope we gain motivation to fulfill those desires.

For Jason, that process resonates with cars — a course that began when he plastered his first Porsche poster on his bedroom wall at the age of seven.

“You can work as hard as you want and achieve whatever you want in life. Cars to me represent the next goal. A multi-million dollar car or property is a goal. Maybe you’ll never buy it, but it’s a fantasy,” Jason says.

The YouTube series is a combination of Jason’s forte — luxury real estate — and his passion: cars. The episodes will air monthly and offer a close look at one of Silver Arrow Cars’ unique luxury

“THIS SERIES IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO CREATE SOMETHING SPECIAL THAT INCORPORATES BEAUTIFUL CARS, BEAUTIFUL REAL ESTATE AND FUN PERSONALITIES.” vehicles, which Jason will take for a spin, ending up at one of Victoria’s prominent real estate listings for a home tour.

Viewers may access the series from Jason’s website, www. binabpropertygroup.com.

Jason’s career history speaks for itself; this man knows how to spot a fabulous piece of real estate. The series offers a chance for dreamers and potential buyers alike to take a look inside some of Vancouver Island’s priciest pads. Jason will give tips on real estate throughout the episodes, aiming to use the series as an avenue to connect with viewers and answer some of their questions.

“This series is an opportunity to create something special that incorporates beautiful cars, beautiful real estate and fun personalities,” Jason explains.

Silver Arrow Cars has a roster of vehicles that have driven international roads and transported some of the world’s most famous celebrity passengers. Tim started the company in response to a demand for rare, collectible and supremely highend cars in Victoria.

Like Jason, Tim’s passion for vehicles started at a young age.

“I’ve had the [car] auction chant going through my head as

long as I can remember,” Tim says. “When I was five I attended an auction with my dad. The auctioneer lifted me up and put me in the go-cart going across the stage. I gave my dad a look that asked ‘what are you going to do now?’ We went home with a go-cart that day.”

Tim was anxious to start a career right out of high school and skip formal education. He was employed with a family friend at Mercedes.

They gave him a job at the reconditioning centre — “it was washing cars,” Tim says with a laugh. “After three months on the job, one of the sales men went on vacation for a few weeks and I filled in. I sold two cars my first day. They took my hose away after that.”

After Silver Arrow Cars opened in 2001, the company rapidly gained success and now boasts an elite inventory collected from the world’s most prestigious car auctions, and a client base that spans globally.

Right now there is a rare Porsche 911 Carrera RS flying somewhere over the Atlantic ocean en route from Paris to Tim’s lot. In 2015, Tim scoured the earth looking for the finest vehicles he could find, visiting 26 cities, seven countries and boarding 108 planes. Tim always attends auctions with an open mind.

51

“I may attend an auction looking for something particular to complement a client’s collection. But I look at every car and if the quality is met, it’s considered.”

Tim’s personal collection contains five, two-seater sports cars, which — as the father of two small children — he doesn’t get the chance to drive too often. Tim says that within Victoria there is a desire to own these vehicles, but they don’t necessarily suit the lifestyle here. Many are locked away in the vault-like safety of garages around the city.

In addition to showcasing an array of luxury properties in the area, the YouTube series gives viewers a glimpse at the staggering quality of vehicles that Silver Arrow Cars is bringing into Victoria.

“Some of the best cars in the world are in Victoria. Some of the most expensive homes in Canada are in Victoria,” Jason says.

“It’s incredibly extravagant, and this level of luxury does exist in Victoria.”

For example, Tim is currently selling a Ferrari F50 previously owned by Mike Tyson at auction with a forecasted sell of $2.5 million. Tim also has a rare Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster priced at around $1.8 million. This Mercedes-Benz is the identical model and colour combination as Justin Trudeau’s, which previously belonged to his father, Pierre. Both vehicles were restored by Rudi Koniczek, of Victoria.

Tough as it may be to envision the pure extravagance of the vehicles and properties the series will feature, we all have that one crazy fantasy that we escape to, that one that keeps us motivated and pushing forward through life’s inevitable shifts.

And as this YouTube series promises to reveal — those fantasies actually can come true.

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Ocean, Mountain & City Views 3347 Hatley Drive, Victoria, BC $1,995,000 | MLS 375063 Savor spectacular views from this executive home located just steps from the Esquimalt Lagoon. This beautifully designed home has been constructed with the highest quality construction and eco-friendly materials. This 4,300 square foot home has 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms including a 1 bedroom suite with private entrance. Do not miss this Oceanview oasis with views from every room.

Executive Broadmead Home 4623 Boulderwood Drive $1,775,000 | MLS 373627 Enjoy south west views from this executive Broadmead home. This 5 bed, 4.5 bath, 3800 sqft home is truly a gem. The main living space features a gourmet kitchen and a open living/ dining room. The upper level master suite features a spa like ensuite. This immaculate home can be found on a very private fully landscaped lot.

Š2017 Engel & VÜlkers. All rights reserved.

Each brokerage is independently owned and operated.

735 Humboldt Street, Victoria BC, Canada V8W 1B1

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com Scott Piercy, Private Office Advisor Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-686-7789 scott.piercy@evcanada.com www.luxurybchomes.com vi.evcanada.com

Unobstructed Ocean Views

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Unobstructed ocean vistas are presented from this home with a bright exposure year-round.

Chef’s kitchen features stainless steel appliances. Warm Oak flooring extends throughout.

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60 stunning acres with incomparable privacy & almost a mile of ocean frontage. Commute using BC Ferries, Seaplane or Yacht to your private dock or helicopter to a landing area at the tip of the point. Foreshore development includes an aluminum ramp & catwalk that leads to a 10 x 40 foot concrete float. Behold nature’s wonderland on beautiful Pender Island.

An impressive 4 bedroom family home; beautifully landscaped offering privacy, sport court, putting green and ample patio space.

The decadent kitchen is topped with granite offering a large wrapping island, Viking gas range, and custom rich-cream cabinetry. The notable master impresses with dual walk-in closets, vanity, 6 piece ensuite, gas fireplace and walk-out balcony.

Spectacular oceanfront penthouse with panoramic mountain & ocean views. The open floor plan combined with the amazing views and outdoor space is perfect for entertaining or relaxing. This spacious 2000+ sqft home includes a deluxe kitchen with custom cabinetry, granite counters & s/s appliances.

A master suite with luxurious ensuite, 2 spare bdrms and a 2nd full bath ensure plenty of space for family or visitors.

©2017 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved.

Each brokerage is independently owned and operated.

735 Humboldt Street, Victoria BC, Canada V8W 1B1

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com James LeBlanc, Private Office Advisor Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-812-7212 james.leblanc@evcanada.com www.luxurybchomes.com vi.evcanada.com

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375099 $ 4 , 0 0 0 , 0 0 0

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19 , 5 2 7 S Q F T W AT E R F R O N T L O T IN TEN MILE POINT

BR AND NEW SOUTH OAK BAY HOME

3250 Exeter Road

2631 Queenswood Drive

2937 Seaview Road

373238

HONG KONG

375315

$2,750,000

MONTREAL

48 Maquinna Street

TORONTO

CALGARY

$2,250,000

VA N C O U V E R

VICTORIA

Iconic Oak Bay $1,575,000

Character & convenience are incorporated into main floor alterations to give this handsome south Oak Bay home new life. A contemporary kitchen, dining & sun room overlook 2 decks & the sunny .24 acre backyard. Three cosy gas fireplaces & a lower level for in-laws. Savour ocean views & sounds of the sea from the master bedroom. Located a few doors from the scenic trail at McNeill Bay, Monterey School & Lafayette Park.

GLYNIS MACLEOD

Personal Real Estate Corporation

250.661.7232 gmacleod@sothebysrealty.ca glynismacleod.com

I believe every home is a mansion, regardless of size, location or price.

Please call me if you are considering selling your home.

Oasis in the City List Price: $3,300,000

5660 Lochside Drive, Victoria: Custom designed & built in 2003 with timeless appeal. The 3,600+ sq. ft. home on 2.75 acres has an air of seductive comfort & impeccable taste. Located on the Lochside walking & cycling trail it includes a 3 car garage & barn.

LOCAL EXPERTISE, GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

Recently Purchased 469 Monterey Avenue, Victoria, BC

sothebysrealty.ca

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Independently Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective Purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal. Not intended to solicit properties already under agreement

WLISA WILLIAMS S

uPLANDS

GONZALES BEACH

SOutH OAK BAY

3175 eXeteR Rd.

159 RobeRtson st.

1193 beACH dR.

$2,528,000

$3,780,000

$1,385,000

immACuLAtE 3 bedrm, 3 bath mid-century design, approximately 3,500 sq.ft. with bright, open layout & a lovely private .48 acre property!

NG DI N PE

ABSOLutELY CHARmiNG fully renovated 3 bedrm tudor home just steps from the ocean, marina, Oak Bay Beach Hotel & Spa!

NG DI N PE

CuStOm 4 bedrm, 5 bath ‘09 home on sandy Gonzales Beach! Beautiful finishing, exceptional views & private guest accommodation too!

NG DI N PE

SOutH OAK BAY

uPLANDS

CADBORO BAY

605 newpoRt Ave.

3225 Ripon Rd.

3705 CRestview Rd.

$1,998,000

$3,638,000

$2,380,000

ViCtORiA GOLf CLuB at your back door!

Stunning location steps frm the ocean, this rare .34 acre flat & sunny property is perfect for your new home!

SPACiOuS & luxurious 5 bedrm/ 5 bath Uplands home beautifully transformed top to bottom, on a gorgeous .72 acre, sunny & private property!

StYLiSH, & modern fully renovated, 4 bed/ 4 bath ocean view home in a private & quiet location, just mins from Cadboro Bay Village & beach!

DELIVERING THE HIGHEST CALIBRE OF PROFESSIONALISM & DEDICATED CLIENT SERVICE . . . IF YOU HAVE CONSIDERED SELLING YOUR HOME CALL LISA TODAY! c: 250•514•1966 L I K E N O OT H E R sothebysrealty.ca

Lisa@LisaWilliams.ca Independently Owned and Operated

www.LisaWilliams.ca

Dallas Sells Victoria/Oak Bay

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

“My goal is to find your dream home and ensure that the decision you make stands as a wise investment over the long term.”

OAK BAY

SO

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CO SO MI ON NG !

Luxurious and prestigious 2,060 square foot suite in the much sought after “Dorchester”. Water views from almost every room, and beautiful interior design by Barbara Bristol. Elegant formal living room with wood burning fireplace, French doors and wool carpets. Gracious formal dining room with fabulous built in cabinets. Expansive kitchen with Gaggenau stove and Sub Zero fridge/freezer. Cozy den with fireplace and built ins. 2 spacious bedrooms, both with an ensuite. Gleaming granite entry and elegant hallway. Full size in-suite laundry & plenty of storage. Stroll to marina & Oak Bay village in minutes from this exceptional residence! $1,250,000

YOUR HOME HERE

PORTAGE INLET - SAANICH WEST

This fabulous waterfront rancher, built in 2000, offers 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a new kitchen, hardwood floors, over 100 ft. of waterfront and a fire pit and new deck to enjoy those summer nights! $849,900

OAK BAY

Just a few doors from Willows Beach, this fabulous family home sits on a lot and a half, approx .24 of an acre. 4 BD, 2 BA, 2,344 sq. ft. Gas fp & hrdwd flrs in the bright, spacious liv rm.

Kitchen opens to sunroom overlooking the large back yard. Close to Oak Bay rec centre, buses & shopping. $1,288,500

With the market being extremely active, it’s the perfect time to sell your home!

LISTINGS WANTED!

For a FREE Market Evaluation call me at

250-744-3301

Dallas Chapple RE/MAX Camosun • Tel: 250.744.3301 • Toll Free: 1.877.652.4880 www.dallaschapple.com • Email: dallas@dallaschapple.com

SAANICH PENINSULA

REAL ESTATE EXPERT Helping you make the right decision.

FE

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FEATURED PROPERTY

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$975,000

1 - 7226 Peden Lane, Brentwood Bay

Luxurious living in beautiful Brentwood Bay! This stunning 2 bed/2bath home features 1309 sqft of impeccably finished living space w/ exceptional western exposure and gorgeous water views! Highlights include an open concept floor plan, hardwood flooring, 5-piece ensuite, and a beautiful custom kitchen complete with fir cabinetry, granite counters, marble backsplash and top-of-line Kitchen-Aid appliances. Outside you will find an expansive patio off the living area, large storage area that’s perfect for kayaks, and an incredible 976 sqft rooftop patio that’s perfect for entertaining and is wired for a hot tub. Situated just steps from the popular Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa.

MLS# 375359

$929,000

762 Westbury Road, Saanich

Chace Whitson personal real estate corporation

MLS# 374300

· 250 818 9338 tel · 250 388 5882 cel

$2,998,000

11178 Chalet Road, North Saanich

Chace@ChaceWhitson.com CHACEWHITSON.COM

MLS# 364829

Extraordinary Properties!

Unrivaled Experience and Expertise

SAANICH INLET – SOUTH FACING OCEANFRONT ACREAGE! Situated in a premiere position on the Saanich Inlet, this south facing 2.85 acre irreplaceable oceanfront is the perfect palate for the over 6000 square foot gracious residence; offering 6 bedrooms and four baths. Included is a separate coach house, ideal for office or guests, plus an in-law suite on the lower level. This idyllic retreat is private, sunny and enjoys access to the water. Act quickly! Offered at $2,725,000.

OCEANFRONT SANCTUARY!

TEN MILE POINT OCEANFRONT HOME

This .5 acre oceanfront home will capture your heart and imagination from the moment you enter.

The breathtaking views from all principal rooms present a scene reminiscent of a Tom Thomson painting; with vaulted ceilings and a wall of windows to frame the ocean, mountain & island views! The home presents a sumptuous and chic environment including a brilliantly executed chef’s kitchen & spa baths. Offered at $1,795,000 MLS 372513

This beautiful residence enjoys breathtaking ocean views to the San Juan Islands with Mount Baker front and center! The unique court yard entry ensures complete privacy with a carved feature entry door.

The floor to ceiling windows bring the ocean in to create a sense of floating on a ship. A spacious 23’ viewing deck on the ocean side expands the living space with abundant marine life below. A lifestyle experience! Offered at $2,600,000 MLS 375403

MACDONALD REALTY LTD. 755 Humboldt Street, Victoria, BC | T 250.388.5882 | TF 1.877.388.5882 leslee@lesleefarrell.com | www.lesleefarrell.com

Call Leslee Farrell at 250.388.5882 for assistance with your local and global real estate needs.

ART. bEAuTy. pRovEnAnCE. ThE woRld’s mosT dEsIREd homEs.

so

ld Exclusive Affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate

Sylvia Therrien

Personal Real Estate Corporation

sylvia@sylviaTherrien.ca 250 385 2033 sylviaTherrien.ca • luxurywaterfront.ca

InternatIonal PersPectIve WIth a Personal touch

Christie’s International Real Estate works with Affiliates that are handpicked for their expertise in selected geographies and their extraordinary level of service. Together, we bring the depth of expertise and excellence that is characteristic of everything that Christie’s does to create the world’s finest international real estate company.

+1 250.896.3859

eli@marvrikoscollective.com www.mavrikocollective.com

Personal Real Estate Corporation

1

r de Un

ct tra n Co

1 Uplands Custom Home 3160 Weald Road MLS 373319 $5,888,000

2

3

2 Exquisite Residence

1-2632 Mt. Stephen Avenue MLS 374882 $768,000

3 Executive Family Home 3847 South Valley Drive MLS 375021 $1,069,000

4

4 Luxurious New Build 10712 Bayfield Road MLS 371495 $1,850,000

* #1 Realtor in Sales Pemberton Holmes 2014, 2015 & 2016 * Multiple MLS Gold Award Winner

Gated Waterfront Acreage

Elegant Uplands Homes

1081 Aspen Rd, Malahat - $2,899,000

2475 Lansdowne Rd, Uplands $2,830,000

SO

LD

3325 Ripon Rd, Uplands $3,400,000

SO

LD

Upper Terrace Estate

3470 Upper Terrace Rd, Uplands - $2,750,000

3185 Ripon Rd, Uplands $3,135,000

SO

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CALLAGHAN O’CONNOR 250-888-4579 • www.callaghanoconnor.com

3375 Upper Terrace Rd, $3,600,000

A very rare offering in the heart of Oak Bay

$1,299,000

2171 sqft condo

3Bed + 3Bath | 2 Floors

“ When you are at “home” some of the best living & most valuable living happen’s ” - Enjoy

Susanna Crofton Newport Realty 250.385.2033 BCSelectHomes.ca

SHAREN WARDE & LARRY SIMS

250-592-4422 1280 Newport Ave 402 MLS 374745

service@WardeSims.com www.WardeSims.com

Your Real Estate Professionals, The Best Practices Produce The Best Results Bringing knowledge, integrity & tenacity to the table.

Together we achieve your real estate goals!

Corie Meyer | 250.818.3216 coriemey@gmail.com www.coriemeyer.com Shelley Saldat | 250.589.4014 ssaldat@shaw.ca www.shelleysaldat.ca

250.384.8124 | www.pembertonholmes.com

Your Condo Experts!

COMING SOON!

101/201 Nursery Hill Drive, The Aspen, Six Mile Spacious 3rd floor, 2 Bdr, 2 Full-Bth condo with a BEAUTIFUL VIEW of the valley.

This 2008 built building has granite counters, engineered wood flrs, fireplace, SS Appliances, underground parking and a gym. Call for more info.

NICOLE BURGESS WALT BURGESS 250-384-8124

nicole@nicoleburgess.com

Great Revenue Income 150-805 Cloverdale Ave 250-384-8124

Helping you make all the right moves.

MLS 374667 $1,075,000

Teaming up to serve you better.

ALISON WEDEKIND & TRACY MENZIES

W

hether you are new to town, thinking about downsizing or considering an investment, they will guide you through the process to ensure you make the right moves in the current market.

With over 30 years combined experience they bring the detailed knowledge and expertise needed to get you the best results when buying or selling.

Welcome to 1759 Kenmore Road. This well maintained revenue property boasts 3 beds 2 baths on the main level with an addition off the kitchen that welcomes you to a family room with vaulted ceilings and access to the backyard. Main level updates include, hardwood flooring throughout, updated bathrooms, renovated kitchen, 2 pc bath off the master. Lower level features 4/5 bedrooms, separate laundry and entrance, large private patio.

Other features include, gas furnace, 200 amp service, new landscaping and fence around property, irrigation system, 9 yr old roof, newer windows.

Floor plans available, must see! Do not delay view today!

Tricia Keller

Personal Real Estate Corporation

250.886.0620 TriciaKellerph@gmail.com triciakeller.realtyhd.com

Alison Wedekind 250-888-4969 Tracy Menzies 250-419-2075

250.384.8124 | www.pembertonholmes.com

Serving you first and foremost since 1887.

Duncan 250.746.8123

Salt Spring 250.537.5553

Sooke 250.642.3240

Victoria 250.384.8124

West Shore 250.478.9141

69

Inspired by the Italian heritage of craftsmanship, each Natuzzi Editions model is perfectly suited to your varied lifestyle and home requirements.

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Sale ends May 31st, see store for details.

250.384.5263 758 Cloverdale Avenue Victoria, BC

WALL to

WALL HANGING RUG ART MAKES A BOLD, BEAUTIFUL AND PRACTICAL DESIGN CHOICE

BY JANE ZATYLNY

PHOTOS BY DON DENTON

Silk carpet from Qom, Iran in the living room of Sharon and Dennis Seemann.

71

E

VERY TIME I MOVE, I always bring along a special heirloom — a beautiful wool runner my mother wove in the early 1980s. The carpet was a perfect fit for my parents’ front hallway, but it’s always been too long for my use. Recently I had an idea: I could cut the runner in half and use it for curtain panels.

As I searched Pinterest, Apartment Therapy and Domino for guidance, I discovered that rugs are being used as wall art in all sorts of ingenious ways. A rich red kilim brings a global vibe to an industrial loft. A bold, geometric area rug adds colour and texture to a dark Art and Crafts living room. And a circular raffia mat, repurposed as a headboard, channels the beach in an airy cottage bedroom. Although it’s not yet popular here in Victoria, interior designer Amy McGeachy confirms that larger cities like New York and Toronto are embracing this trend.

Of course, the practice of hanging carpets predates the Internet — by more than a few centuries. “The nomadic peoples of the Middle East used carpets for walls in their tents for warmth on cold desert nights,” explains Babak Rezwani, owner of Babak’s Oriental Carpets. “Following the Middle Eastern example, the French also hung Aubusson and needlework carpets in their grand palaces.”

While you may not live in a palace, a souk, or even a big city loft, there are many reasons why you might consider hanging a rug on a wall in your home. One is cost: although rugs can be expensive, they typically cost less than a painting of the same size.

“Many of our rugs are pieces of art, so I can understand why someone might want to do it,” says Greg Holz, flooring manager for Jordans.

Then there’s the textural, three-dimensional appeal of hanging a carpet on the wall.

“It offers a way to add a pop of colour to your walls that’s visually different than framed or canvas pieces,” explains McGeachy.

Secured vertically on a wall, precious Persian and Oriental treasures are safe from everyday wear and tear and their detailed workmanship is on full view, not covered with heavy furniture.

“It’s a way to preserve art, to preserve the time and effort that has gone into the carpet,” says Rezwani. “When you buy a carpet, you buy a piece of tradition… a story from the people to the people.”

Victoria homeowners Sharon and Dennis Seemann spent 24 years in the Middle East and own many special carpets.

“Some we bought while living in Saudi Arabia; others, while visiting Iran,” she says. “Each one is unique.”

In their current home, the couple has positioned a dark blue and cream silk carpet at eye level beside their fireplace, where it can be easily viewed and touched.

“This beautiful rug is from Qom, Iran and is one of our favourites,” syas Sharon. “It just is so much better displayed vertically — it shimmers.”

Besides their obvious aesthetic appeal, rugs have other, more practical purposes. They can help dampen noise — perfect for condo dwellers who may share a wall or two with a neighbour.

“MANY OF OUR RUGS ARE PIECES OF ART."

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Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Management, a business segmentcorporate of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of RoyalInvestor Bank ofProtection Canada. Used under © RBC Dominion isSecurities a member company RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © RBC Dominion Inc. 2016. Allofrights reserved.

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    

72

A carpet, woven in a photographic image, hangs framed on a wall.

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Rear view of a small carpet, depicting a young girl, by Nesami Dost from Tabriz, Iran.

And they can also be repurposed into beautiful window coverings, as I intend to do with my mother’s woven runner.

“Hanging a rug on the wall just offers so many benefits to your space,” says McGeachy. “I expect the trend to grow in Victoria over the next few years.”

Here are some tips to consider when hanging a rug on the wall: • Many rugs are investment pieces, so it’s important to do your homework and think about the quality you want before you buy, says Sharon Seemann. Research online, in store and at the library.

“Be careful about colour, as many carpets can be very vibrant. And make sure you get something that really makes you happy,” advises Seemann.

• Choose lighter weight materials for hanging, like silk/wool and all silk.

“Some carpets that are made from these materials are designed to be multipurpose for wall hanging as well as for flooring,” says Babak Rezwani.

• Consider buying an area rug at an auction, eBay or at a thrift store.

“Older rugs can be cleaned prior to hanging or repaired to look new again,” says McGeachy. “A bit of wear and tear can also add a little old world charm to your space.”

• Find the right hanging method for your rug. Some carpet dealers sew leather or canvas rod holders onto the back of the rug. Babak Oriental Carpets recommends a product called Smooth Edge. Available at Home Depot, it features tiny nails and was originally designed for installing wall-to-wall carpeting.

“Avoid using clips for carpets,” warns Rezwani. “The weight will be distributed to the clamp, and the rug could be indented and damaged.”

• Be creative in how you display your rugs.

“Hang them as a collage with other pieces of art, or try hanging a large rug over a bed instead of a headboard, or above a fireplace,” suggests McGeachy.

74

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“THE SIGHT OF SILVER-SCALED FISH AND SPOTTED PRAWNS FILLS ME WITH AN EXHILARATION THAT I CAN’T WAIT TO BRING TO MY KITCHEN!” 78

FOOD & DRINK

CATCH

OF THE

DAY LET THE FLAVOUR AND FRESHNESS OF LOCAL SEAFOOD SHINE

BY CHEF HEIDI FINK

PHOTOS BY DON DENTON

Chef Heidi Fink at the Ogden Point Breakwater and (at left) locally harvested spot prawns from Finest At Sea Ocean Products Ltd.

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S

PRING ON THE WEST COAST is a time of wonderful abundance, and the bounty from the ocean is the most exciting of all. Spring is the start of the salmon run, halibut season and the very short window for our unbelievably delicious local prawns and shrimp.

I try to make the most of this time of year, cooking up fresh local fish and shrimp whenever the opportunity allows. The sight of silver-scaled fish and spotted prawns fills me with an exhilaration that I can’t wait to bring to my kitchen! The season for some of these foods is so short, I prefer to keep things simple and let the freshness and flavour of our local seafood shine.

A quick pan sear for fillets, or pan roast for thicker steaks, with little or no adornment, is my preferred way of cooking perfect fish. The freshness speaks for itself, no sauce necessary.

To fancy things up a little, I will sometimes make a compound butter, flavoured with herbs, citrus, chilies or other aromatics, adding flair to an otherwise simple meal from the sea. Served with steamed spring vegetables from the farm market, fish like this makes a wonderful meal.

Shrimp and prawns tend to get more fancy treatments from my kitchen. They are absolutely delicious on their own, but pair beautifully with a variety of flavours, from Thai lemongrass and coconut milk, to garlic and red chili. I incorporate them into pastas, soups, Thai noodle dishes, as well as serve them very simply, with garlic butter and a basket of crusty bread.

Local prawns have a sweetness and tenderness unmatched by any imported variety. They are a must-try for every West Coaster.

I serve them in my cooking classes and invariably hear raves about the wonderful texture and flavour of our local shrimp and prawns. They are available frozen year round, but do make

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the most of their short season while they are sold fresh. Utterly delicious!

For the compound butters, I like to make a different flavour for different fish. Lemon and herbs cut through the richness of salmon without detracting from its taste. White fish are usually leaner and need more robust flavours to shine: smoked chilies, black pepper, ginger and garlic are some of the few I mix and match to create a sauce for leaner fish.

Freshness, seasonality, deliciousness and kitchen inspiration: our local fish and seafood have everything. One of my favourite places to buy local fish and seafood is Finest at Sea on Erie Street near Fisherman’s Wharf. All we have to do is take some home and enjoy every bite.

SPANISH GARLIC SHRIMP

Serves 8 to 10 for an appetizer, 2 for a meal Nothing but robust flavours and tender juicy shrimp, this is best served piping hot with crusty bread to soak up the juices. To make it into a full meal, add a salad and a cheese plate.

10 -12 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped fine 1 lb side-stripe shrimp or spot prawns, shelled and deveined 4 Tbsp extravirgin olive oil ½ tsp salt 1 tsp minced dried New Mexico chili, OR ½ tsp sweet paprika 1½ tsp sherry vinegar OR 1 Tbsp dry sherry sliced crusty baguette for serving Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and garlic and sauté until the garlic is softened, a light gold and

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SPRING IS THE START OF THE SALMON RUN, HALIBUT SEASON AND THE VERY SHORT WINDOW FOR OUR UNBELIEVABLY DELICIOUS LOCAL PRAWNS AND SHRIMP.

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starting to stick together in clumps — about 45 seconds. Add the chili or paprika, stir once and immediately add the shrimp and salt, stirring well to mix. Cook, stirring frequently, about 3 minutes, or until shrimp is cooked through. Add the sherry vinegar or sherry and serve immediately with bread to mop up the juices.

THAI SHRIMP AND COCONUT MILK SOUP

Serves 6 to 8 The fragrant Thai aromatics and creamy coconut milk in this soup highlight the sweet flavour and delicate texture of our local shrimp. The Thai ingredients can be purchased at Fisgard Market in Chinatown or at Fairway Market at Quadra/Hillside.

Soup 1 lb small, unpeeled local side-stripe shrimp or spot prawns 1 Tbsp oil 2 shallots, sliced 2 cloves garlic, sliced 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro 4 stalks lemongrass 2-inch length of fresh galangal, sliced into thin disks 5 cups water 7 to 8 kefir lime leaves, roughly torn 2 cans coconut milk (400 ml) ½ lb oyster mushrooms, cleaned and sliced 4 Tbsp fish sauce 2 tsp red curry paste 2 kefir lime leaves, central rib removed, leaves finely sliced 1 to 2 tsp fresh lime juice

1 to 2 tsp crushed palm sugar or light brown sugar Garnish 3 green onions, thinly sliced ½ cup chopped cilantro 3 red Thai chilies, seeded and finely sliced Peel the shrimp or prawns and reserve the shells. You will use them for making stock. If the prawns you bought are on the large side, or if you want them to stretch further, cut the prawns in half lengthwise.

Cut the lemongrass into 1-inch lengths, discarding the tough root and the grassy tops (you will only get about 2 to 3 inches of useable stalk from each piece of lemongrass). Smash each piece of lemongrass with the bottom of a heavy pan.

In a soup pot, heat the oil. Add the shallots and sauté for a minute or two, until softened. Add garlic, prawn shells and cilantro and continue to sauté until shells are turning pink in spots. Add the prepared lemongrass and the slices of galangal.

Stir and sauté for a minute, or until very fragrant, but do not let the aromatics brown. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer gently for about 20 minutes, add the kefir lime leaves and simmer 3 minutes more, until stock is very fragrant.

Strain the broth into a bowl. Discard all solids left in the strainer. Pour the strained broth back into the soup pot. Add coconut milk, mushrooms, fish sauce and red curry paste. Bring back to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. (The soup can be made up to this point, cooled and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Bring to a simmer before proceeding.)

Add the prawns, as well as the 2 thinly sliced kefir lime leaves. Simmer soup for 2 to 3 minutes (prawns cook very

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quickly). Add the lime juice and sugar. Now taste to adjust seasonings. You may need more fish sauce (salt) and more fresh lime juice and/or palm sugar. Serve immediately with garnishes.

SIMPLE PAN-SEARED FISH WITH FLAVOURED BUTTERS Fish in season, cooked right, needs no seasoning other than salt; still, a small dollop of a flavoured butter adds some polish to a light and refreshing meal. Choose fresh, seasonal fish such as halibut, rockfish (snapper) or salmon (spring, sockeye or coho) for this simple pan sear. This can be made with either fillets or steaks; thicker steaks will need additional time in the oven to finish cooking. I usually serve this fish with steamed or boiled spring vegetables, choosing whatever is freshest and most appealing at the market: baby potatoes, young carrots, snap peas, asparagus, overwintering broccoli, baby beets or turnips.

Fillets 4 fish fillets, approx. 150 – 200 gm each 4 Tbsp clarified butter or oil Salt Heat two large skillets (cast iron is a great choice) over medium to medium-high heat. While they are heating, sprinkle the fillets generously with salt. When the skillets are hot, add half the butter or oil to each pan, place fillets skin-side down in the pans and cook without moving for 3 minutes. Use a thin metal spatula to loosen the fish and flip it over. Cook for about 3 minutes more. Serve immediately, with flavoured butter and spring vegetables.

IMPORTANT: The pan should be hot but not smoking for this. You should end up with a golden brown crust on the top, not a black one. The fish will be just barely cooked in the middle, to maintain moisture. Make adjustments in heat and timing depending on how easily your stove heats up and how thick the fish is.

Steaks 2 fish steaks, approx. 200 – 400 gm each Clarified butter or oil Salt If the steaks are 1 inch thick or more, preheat the oven to 400 F. Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.

Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt. When the skillet is hot, add the butter or oil, and then add the steaks. Sear until a nice brown crust forms, about 3 minutes. Flip the steaks; if the steaks are thick, immediately place in the oven and cook for about 10 minutes. If they are thinner, continue cooking on the stovetop, but reduce heat to medium-low. Cook (either way) until the fish is just starting to pull away from the bone, but still gives some resistance. Remove to a serving platter and serve immediately with flavoured butter and spring vegetables.

FLAVOURED BUTTERS The mayonnaise helps to both loosen the texture and emulsify the flavouring ingredients with the butter, and helps make a perfect creamy smooth texture. These butters can be made several days ahead of time and kept in the fridge until needed.

Chive, Lemon, Herb (excellent with salmon) 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened 1 Tbsp mayonnaise

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2 Tbsp minced chives finely grated zest of 1 lemon ¼ tsp salt, or more, to taste 1 tsp fresh lemon juice Optional – finely chopped herbs (dill, parsley) Smoked Paprika, Honey, Garlic (excellent with halibut) 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened 1 Tbsp mayonnaise 1 Tbsp smoked paprika 1 clove garlic, pressed through garlic press or minced to paste 1 Tbsp honey ¼ tsp salt, or more, to taste

Ginger, Black Pepper, Cilantro (excellent with rockfish) 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened 1 Tbsp mayonnaise 1 Tbsp finely grated ginger 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 2 Tbsp very finely minced stems of cilantro ¼ tsp salt, or more, to taste Method is the same for each butter: In a small bowl, combine the butter, mayonnaise and all other ingredients. Stir and mash with a fork until well-combined and the sauce is emulsified. Use immediately or store in the fridge for several days.

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HEALTH FEATURE

SPRING BREAK BREAKING UP IS NEVER EASY, BUT NIXING BAD HABITS IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH.

BY PAMELA DURKIN PHOTOS BY LIA CROWE

S

PRING IS THE SEASON OF renewal, making it the perfect time to replace health-derailing habits with more salubrious practices that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

If you’re not sure where to start, I’ve identified some prevalent and counterproductive habits we’d all be wise to exorcise.

“Breaking up” with these bad boys, will not only ensure enjoyment of a more invigorating summer, it will optimize your health in myriad ways.

HAVING LUNCH AT YOUR DESK

According to a recent survey by Right Management, only one in five office workers reports taking an actual lunch break away from their desk.

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That’s not a healthy statistic, and here’s why: prolonged sitting has been linked to elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Not surprisingly, health experts are urging us to get off our butts as often as we can, and for many desk-bound, nine-to-fivers, the lunch break presents the perfect opportunity to do just that.

“Just getting up for a walk on your way to lunch introduces some movement into your day and can actually help you return to the workplace feeling refreshed and more productive,” notes Victoria-based career and life coach Julia James.

An intriguing study from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Education echoes James’ thoughts and reveals that movement isn’t the only benefit we get from choosing to lunch away from our desks. The Stanford researchers found that those who lunched off-site displayed better problem solving skills and had higher degrees of concentration in the afternoon than

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workers who remained at their desk during lunch.

Another reason to tear yourself away from your desk at noon — according to a report in the New York Times — casual munching in front of a screen leads to increased calorie consumption and weight gain.

And as James notes, “When we eat while working, we’re not relaxed and our digestion suffers, leading to things like indigestion and bloating.”

So do your body and brain a favour — take your brown bag to the park or walk to your favourite local café for lunch. Think of it as recess for adults!

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effect on their thoughts and behaviours.

Unfortunately, for far too many folks this self-talk consists of negative put downs such as: “I’m too fat” or “I’ll never get the job.” If you think these self-directed slings only damage the psyche, you’re wrong. Compelling new research suggests engaging in this sort of self-talk can actually raise inflammation markers that have been linked to a host of chronic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. “Negative self-talk is making us sick,” says James. “Engaging in it is like drinking poison all day long.”

So what’s the antidote?

“I advise people to find three personality traits or physical attributes they like about themselves and identify just one area that requires growth,” states James. “With enough practice, this breaks the negative cycle and opens up avenues for positive change.”

It’s also likely to make you happier and a lot more fun to be around.

NOT MAKING TIME FOR INTIMACY

If you’ve been too tired, busy or just not inclined to make whoopi with your significant other lately, you’re missing out on some significant health benefits.

Sex releases the hormone oxytocin, which studies suggest may reduce the craving for sweets, relieve anxiety, boost memory and learning levels, lower blood pressure, enhance immune function and increase confidence.

And that’s not all regular time in the sack can do for you. A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology showed that men who had sex two times per week were less likely to develop heart disease than men who had sex only once per month.

What’s more, when you climax, your body releases endorphins that are natural painkillers, rendering sex a great remedy for aches and pains. Sadly, in today’s hectic world too many of us are not making intimacy a priority — we’re either too tired or too busy catching up with emails and social obligations.

“I have clients who will bend over backwards to fit in time at the gym or the kids’ soccer games, but they won’t schedule time for sex,” declares local intimacy and lifestyle coach Cherish Dorrington MCT. “To reap all the benefits of sex you have to set aside time for it — schedule date nights complete with candles and wine, a little adventure, something new that keeps you interested and lets you view your partner through a new lens.”

Clearly, following this advice won’t just enhance your health — it will enhance the health of your relationship.

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NEVER CHANGING YOUR WORKOUT

Are you a creature of habit when it comes to your fitness regime? If you’ve been faithfully performing the same exercises in the same way, day in and day out, you may not be experiencing all the health benefits exercise has to offer.

“Our bodies plateau over time,” explains personal trainer Ali Spillette of Core Personal Fitness. “They adapt to exercises they are asked to repeat over and over, and we stop seeing continued improvements in endurance and strength unless we challenge the body in new ways.”

So, if you want your fitness level to improve, you’ll have to

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break out of your fitness rut and switch things up.

But, as Spillette says, “You don’t have to make radical changes to break out of a plateau — simply increasing the intensity of your current workout or adding more sets or heavier weights to your routine will challenge the body to respond.”

NIXING CARBS

Pity poor carbohydrates — they’ve been vilified as fattening foes, and trendy diets like the Paleo diet and Whole30 suggest people eschew them altogether. If you’ve taken this advice to heart, you may want to rethink your decision for the sake of your health, and, surprisingly, your waistline.

Admittedly, it’s irrefutable that refined carbohydrates, like white bread, can contribute to weight gain and associated diseases, but the reverse is true of complex carbohydrates.

A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that people who ate the most complex carbohydrates were 40 per cent less likely to be obese or overweight compared with people who ate the least.

Another recent study conducted by scientists at the Harvard School of Public Health reported that a diet rich in whole grains is linked to longevity.

If you’re not convinced, consider the residents of “Blue Zones” — regions that play host to the world’s longest living people. Their diets are rich in complex carbs like whole grains and legumes. The take-home lesson? Ignore the social media hype and listen to science — those oats you’ve been avoiding are good for you!

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S WE SAT IN THE CHARMING, YELLOW-HUED dining room of Vinoteca, sipping Zanatta Damasco wine and savouring a tangy-sweet mix of greens, beets, Prosciutto and goat cheese, I realized we had come full circle.

We were ending our journey in the place it all began.

Vinoteca, with its wrap-around veranda and views over the vines (so perfect for summertime sipping), is located at Vigneti Zanatta, Vancouver Island’s first estate winery. And our journey — undeniably too short — was all about wine tasting in this region.

The trip teased my husband and I with an introduction to local vintages and begged for a much broader sampling. We savoured wine at Zanatta, tasted an array of local vintages at Parksville Uncorked, learned a bit about the future of island winemaking, explored a sleek, modern winery poised to expand, and discovered a small-batch production facility housed in a dairy farm.

Next to the Okanagan, the Cowichan Valley is considered BC’s second highest wine producing area. And according to Loretta Zanatta — daughter of the man who started it all on Vancouver Island — the mild climate and long growing season here results in intensely flavourful and complex wines that easily compare with vintages from France, Italy and California.

Old-world grapes like Pinot Gris, Ortega and Gewürztraminer flourish in this region, as do reds that prefer a cooler growing climate, such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Maréchal Foch.

“People here are very open to local wines,” says Loretta, as we sip Zanatta’s rich Pinot Nero with its hints of pepper and fresh berries. “You run into people who have tried a bunch of local wines and can tell you about the specific flavours.”

Loretta, who obtained a degree at UBC before heading to Italy to study wine and winemaking, was born in this farmhouse, which now holds the winery and restaurant.

“Dad started experimenting with grapes here in the 1960s,” she says, adding that some of his original vines still grow on the property today.

Wine-loving Dennis Zanatta came to Canada in the 1950s from Treviso, Italy, acquiring this 25-acre farm. He immediately noticed the similarities in climate to his homeland. After years of undertaking his own grape-growing experiments, he volunteered an acre of land to the BC government’s “Duncan Project,” which tested out numerous varieties of grapes in the early 1980s. Some lesser-known grapes, like Cayuga, Ortega and Auxerrois, thrived and set the stage for the unique wines that have since emerged.

In the meantime, says Loretta, she was off studying in the

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Prosecco region of Italy, and “fell in love with how much you can do with sparkling wine.” The result is Zanatta’s specialty — and my personal favourite — wine with bubbles.

So alongside our sampling of Zanatta’s deliciously dry Pinot Grigio and fruity Damasco (number one local wine in the region, says Loretta), I sip my way into wine heaven with Glenora Fantasia Brut — Cayuga grapes and hints of apple — and the divine, Prosseco-like Brut Tradizionale. We learn that Vigneti Zanatta produces 3,000 cases of wine each year, using only grapes grown on the property, and we leave with a bottle of Taglio Rosso, tempted by curiosity for this unique, deep-red sparkler that uses Cabernet Sauvignon and Castel grapes.

A little ways down the valley from Zanatta, in the bucolic Cowichan Station, sits Blue Grouse Estate Winery, where we began our wine-tasting journey a day earlier. Like Zanatta, it is one of the oldest wineries in the region. It’s similarly rooted in the Duncan Project and — under its Blue Grouse label — uses only grapes grown on the 45-acre property, including Ortega, Bacchus, Pinot Gris, Siegerrebe, Pinot Noir, and Black Muscat.

(It also produces Quill wines that incorporate grapes from elsewhere in the province.)

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But here’s where the similarities end and where the joy of exploring local wineries begins. Unlike the charming, original farmhouse setting of Zanatta, Blue Grouse has a sleek, new building that rises, gleaming, above the rolling vineyards. It’s bright and airy with floor-to-ceiling windows, state-of-the-art winemaking facility, modern wood counters and tabletops by Live Edge and a spacious tasting room.

I love the Blue Grouse website’s explanation of the building’s design: “Our architects found inspiration for the building’s shape in our namesake, the Blue Grouse. The lovely curve of the grouse’s head and neck inspired the roofline. Inside the tasting room, a curved ceiling reminds visitors of a grouse’s belly, and the new entrance will highlight a beautiful shade of blue from the grouse’s tail feathers.”

Owner Paul Brunner — a former mining engineer with family roots in the region— showed us around the facility, even stopping at the lovely home he shares with his wife, artist Christina Brunner. It overlooks a newly planted part of the vineyard and has a two-bedroom lowerlevel suite available for visitor accommodation.

The Brunners, who moved to the area and purchased the vineyard in 2012, have lived (along with their opera-singing daughter) all over the world. According to the website, “The family’s interest in wines and vines stems from Paul’s need to repent for his sins. (After a life in mining, he’s going green).”

The new building, which opened in 2015, features

earthquake-proof construction, geothermal heating and cooling, a state-of-the-art, “green” water system, and automated bottling system, which can produce 1,500 bottles of wine an hour.

Blue Grouse currently produces 3,000 cases each year, but is gearing up to double production and has the capacity to produce 12,000 cases. We enjoyed sampling several wines, and left with a Quill Rose and newly released champagne-method bubbly (yes, I’m addicted).

Then, we headed up island to our next stop.

Parksville Uncorked Wine & Food Festival is a weekend-long event hosted each February by two high-end, waterfront resorts — Beach Club Resort and TighNa-Mara. The festival includes Parksville Untapped — celebrating regional breweries, cideries and distilleries — two winemakers dinners and a Sunday morning Bubbles and Brunch.

We attended the sold-out Swirl event (aptly named, as I’m quite certain the room was swirling for many by the end of the night), which was held this year at the Beach Club Resort and featured wines from over 100 wineries, plus stations of chef-inspired small bites.

Amid the many, many wines we tasted, two Cowichan Valley wineries floated to the top of the barrel for us. First, there was the intriguing, lavender-infused flavour of Damali wines, a family-owned craft winery located 10 minutes south of Blue Grouse. Planted as a lavender farm in 2005, a vineyard was added six years later and today all Damali’s signature wines

“YOU RUN INTO PEOPLE WHO HAVE TRIED A BUNCH OF LOCAL WINES AND CAN TELL YOU ABOUT THE SPECIFIC FLAVOURS.”

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include locally grown fruit and lavender blends. The taste is delightful — and unusual.

Also tantalizing our palates were wines produced by Mill Bay’s Unsworth Vineyards. At this tasting table, we savoured rich, fragrant flavours and learned a bit about grape experimentation and the future of valley winemaking. We placed this lovely sounding vineyard and restaurant on our “must visit” list.

Our final stop before heading down-island the next day took us to Parksville’ Morningstar Farms, a working dairy farm and home of Little Qualicum Cheeseworks and Mooberry Winery. We thoroughly enjoyed tasting Mooberry’s rich fruit wines (and, yes, the Gooseberry and Blackberry vintages found homes in our collection) but we were most impressed with the farm itself. Offering self-guided tours through the dairy production area and up-close encounters with all sorts of farm animals, this is a place you definitely want to visit — and bring the grandkids!

Back at our tour-ending table at Vinoteca, the engaging proprietor, Fatima da Silva, served up a navy bean, garlic and kale soup, explaining that it’s a recipe her mother concocted during her childhood in Mozambique.

“When my sister ate it, she always giggled and giggled.”

Fatima says, shrugging. “No one knows why.”

I too was tempted to giggle, happy about all we’d discovered on our journey.

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FRONT ROW

BY ROBERT MOYES

A COLLECTION OF ALL THINGS ARTSY HAPPENING IN VICTORIA THIS SPRING. FEATURING COMPELLING DRAMA, STUNNING ARTWORK, UPBEAT THEATRE AND A PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER.

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PHOTO BY YVES RENAUD

Scene from Pacific Opera Victoria’s Lilies (Les Feluettes).

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by one of that province’s most beloved cultural heroes, Lilies is doubtless destined to have less impact here than it did in Montreal.

“But the drama is riveting and theatrically intelligent, and I’m sure that audiences will be touched by this love story,” Vernon adds. “It has a universal emotional truth.”

MARTYRED FOR LOVE “LILIES” SEASON CLOSER BY PACIFIC OPERA VICTORIA

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ONTEMPORARY CANADIAN OPERAS ARE quite rare, so when Pacific Opera Victoria debuts Lilies (Les Feluettes) it will be of notable interest — not least because this co-production with Opéra de Montréal has already opened to rapturous reviews in Quebec.

“It was hugely successful, the audiences were ecstatic,” says Timothy Vernon, POV’s artistic director and the conductor for both productions. “And we’re bringing the same cast here, which is great.”

Based on a play by Quebec’s renowned Michel Marc Bouchard, Lilies tells the story of a devastating love triangle set in a college in 1912 that results in one lad dying, another going to prison, and the third eventually becoming a bishop.

Decades later the bishop visits the prison to perform last rites and is compelled to confront the truth of his past when the inmates re-enact those tragic events from long ago. Lilies is substantially told in flashback, and the music ranges from Debussy’s Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian — which the students were performing as part of a play in 1912 — to a sophisticated modern score by award-winning composer Kevin March.

“The music is varied and strong, with some folkloric elements as well as lyrical romanticism,” says Vernon. “It’s not aggressively modern.”

Seeing as it is sung in French, set in Quebec, and was written

Performing April 20-30 at the Royal Theatre. For tickets, call 250-386-6121.

A PASSION FOR PAINTING WEST END GALLERY PAINTINGS BY ALAIN BÉDARD In the 1980s, Quebec painter Alain Bédard studied art at Laval University, where he embraced the tutelage of renowned Canadian artist Claude A. Simard. After graduating, Bédard worked as an illustrator and graphic designer before abandoning his own design firm and becoming a full-time painter in 1992.

Both his training and the profound influence of Simard have shaped this eminently likable artist, whose vividly coloured figurative cityscapes make most viewers eager to step into the enticing world depicted on the canvas — or maybe just head off somewhere on their own vacation.

“People are really drawn to the bright colours … his work is very joyful and full of happiness,” says Amy Boyle, assistant manager at West End Gallery. “He’s a very popular artist and the prices are still very reasonable.”

The exhibition, Inspirations of Provence, will feature up to 15 acrylic-on-canvas paintings, with prices ranging from $700-$2,100.

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As Bédard has noted, “I’m the kind of painter who walks, stops, looks, listens and sketches a moment of life on the spot, which I then create upon canvas.”

His delightfully innocent urban scenes feature keenly observed architectural facades as a backdrop for strolling tourists, vegetable sellers, a table of diners at an outdoor café or a passerby admiring boats bobbing in a sunlit harbour.

“I would love to have a Bédard in my collection,” confesses Boyle. “The palette is so bright and there is so much joy and passion in his work.”

Running April 8-20 at West End Gallery, 1203 Broad St. For information, call 250-388-0009.

THE WORLD ON A STRING THE DAISY THEATRE LATEST EXTRAVAGANZA FROM PUPPET MASTER RONNIE BURKETT Award-winning marionette master Ronnie Burkett usually explores dark themes, so his latest show, the bawdy and provocative Daisy Theatre, may come as a surprise to his longtime fans.

As it turns out, fans and newcomers alike have been flocking to this unique work, which debuted at Toronto’s 2013 Luminato Festival and has toured ever since.

On the surface Daisy is a variety show for adults, and features more than 40 marionettes in a series of theatrical parodies of everything from opera and Las Vegas revues to French cabaret and old-fashioned vaudeville.

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“But it’s wildly political, wildly filthy, wildly satirical … Daisy is a great ride,” says Heather Lindsay, executive director of Intrepid Theatre. “We sold out every single seat for our run in November of 2015 and couldn’t wait to get him back.”

According to Lindsay, the show is partly inspired by Czech marionette theatre, which mounted subversive performances after the Nazi occupation.

“This was Burkett’s response to political unrest and the reemergence of right-wing ideologies,” notes Lindsay. “But it can quickly shift from the political to something incredibly poignant … or be amazingly funny.”

The show is partially improvised, and you don’t see every puppet at every performance, so serious fans come more than once to get a richer experience.

“It’s the marionettes that rule the journey each night,” explains Lindsay, who adds that Burkett, who voices all the characters, puts on a truly bravura display of technical skill.

“Audiences hoot and holler; they get hugely involved in the puppet characters,” she notes. “Burkett is a Canadian treasure.”

Running April 13-16 at the Metro Studio, 1411 Quadra St. For tickets, see Intrepid Theatre.

GOING GOTHIC DR. JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER PRESENTED BY LANGHAM COURT As a young man growing up in England, Keith Digby devoured the great thrillers of Gothic literature, from The Castle of Otranto to Dracula. Decades later, and after a long career

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in theatre, Digby was part of a group making suggestions for the latest season of Langham Court Theatre (he usually directs one Langham show a year with his wife and creative partner, Cynthia Pronick).

Suddenly thoughts turned to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the timeless Victorian shocker about a wellintentioned doctor whose efforts to subdue the evil side of human nature backfire into madness and depravity.

And when Digby discovered a new, streamlined, and very creepy version of the play, the search was over. “In this version Jekyll’s fantasies come out as four people instead of just one, and having four Mr. Hydes is more interesting and much more theatrical,” he explains.

And like the best horror stories, real tragedy lies under the lurid surface.

“Jekyll is looking to instill serenity by finding a chemical cure for the ‘beast within,’ but instead he is seduced, then trapped by desires that are ferociously over the top,” says Pronick. “It’s a morality tale writ large.”

The two co-directors make serious

demands on their actors, who not only have to push beyond realism without teetering into campy melodrama, but also must keep pace with speedy changes between scenes, thanks to a revolving stage.

“And Jekyll is extremely atmospheric — our lighting tech calls himself a shadow designer,” adds Pronick with a chuckle.

“This is the Gothic version of film noir.”

Playing from April 21 to May 6 at Langham Court Theatre. For tickets, call 250-384-2142.

BEASTLY BEAUTY DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST CCPA’S SEASON CAPPER

"Small Flower Garden" by Alain Bédard.

“This is the busiest year we’ve ever had,” says Darold Roles, artistic and education director for the Victoria-based Canadian College of the Performing Arts, widely acclaimed as one of the best such colleges in Canada. “We’ve been getting out into the community more and taking unique performance opportunities for the students, including with the Victoria Symphony and the Naden Band.” Their hectic season

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culminates in April with a gala presentation of Beauty and the Beast, the Oscar-winning animated movie musical from 1991 that later became a Broadway sensation.

Based on a French fairy tale, it’s the romantic story of a selfish prince who has been transformed by a curse into a grotesque creature. Ah, but is there time for him to earn the love of a young woman and be released from that dire spell?

“The movie has a special place in people’s hearts, and our job is to recapture the magic they remember from Beauty,” says Roles, who is confident his 60 talented students have the singing, dancing and acting chops to enthrall any audience.

With impressive costumes and props rented from Vancouver, whimsical characters like Lumière and Mrs. Potts will come fully alive. And memorable songs, such as Be Our Guest, will be backed by a large, first-call live orchestra led by Brad L’Écuyer.

“We have some of the top budding talent in the country,” adds Roles. “And we proved last year with Mary Poppins that we are definitely up for the challenge of presenting a Broadway-style show.”

Running from April 21-29 at the McPherson Playhouse.

For tickets, call 250-386-6121.

READY FOR ITS CLOSE-UP SUNSET BOULEVARD PERFORMANCE BY VOS Considered the swan song of the mega-musical, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard is getting its Victoria debut 24

years after it first opened in London.

“The original Sunset had such massive, technically complex sets that it’s really beyond the reach of a smaller theatre,” explains director-choreographer Heather-Elayne Day, who is helming the production for the Victoria Operatic Society. “So we’ve gone to the original 1950 film version for our source material.”

A jaundiced look at the underbelly of Hollywood, Sunset depicts a tragedy that unfolds after an ambitious young playwright gets entwined in the life of Norma Desmond, a faded star from the silent film era who dreams of making a comeback.

“The story is about obsession … and about the danger of getting what you so desperately hope for,” explains Day. Although dominated by Norma’s gloomy mansion, this musical boasts a cast of 28 — playing over 40 characters — and opens up for some big outdoor scenes and even a car chase, which will be conveyed via projections.

“It’s a challenging production to put into a small space such as the McPherson,” Day admits. “Plus the music is sweeping and gorgeous, but it’s also very complex, and we need 18 players in the pit.”

There is little traditional dialogue, with much of the story emerging as the characters sing, imbuing Sunset with the dramatic intensity of opera.

“This is a dark comedy, but also haunting and desperately sad,” adds Day.

Running from May 5-14 at the McPherson Playhouse. For tickets, call 250-386-6121.

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www.macreno.com 250.412.8012 | 825 Viewfield Road, Victoria, BC Naval architect Greg Marshall, left, and partner, naval architect Gord Galbraith, stand at the entrance to their office.

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V

ERY FEW ARE BLESSED TO KNOW their life’s calling at an early age, and then successfully follow that path. Greg Marshall, naval architect, is one of these rare beings.

From age five, he loved boats. He studied and drew them constantly — often to the dismay of his teachers — but always guided by his natural art talent and encouraged by his father, an architect.

Today Marshall is at the helm of Gregory C. Marshall Naval Architect Ltd., designer of some of the top luxury yachts in the world.

When I went to visit, I thought I had arrived at a farm. There is no company name on the building, nor is there a sign by the West Burnside Road location. Snowdrops bloomed under the apple trees and daffodils poked up through the grass.

Greg Marshall, a burly man of 54 years, greeted me at the door with a big friendly smile. He was casually dressed, as were all members of the staff. When he started the firm in 1994, he explained, it was located on the Inner Harbour. But it attracted too many visitors, so he moved to this secluded farm.

As he showed me around, it became immediately clear that this plain-but-crowded building is at the opposite end of the spectrum from the glitz and ostentation of many offices; it’s intended for work and creativity. There is no waiting room, and walls, tables and desks sit crammed with computers and printers and, of course, pictures, plans and models of boats.

Yachts are the theme, mostly in the luxury class. And there is

a pervading atmosphere of high technology: every office desk has two to four computer monitors, many with three-dimensional images of attractive top-end yachts, rotating and offering views from different angles.

As we sat in Marshall’s modest, open-concept office next to the front door, he explained how this all came to be.

Marshall was born and grew up in Victoria.

“I am not sure where I got the yacht-design addiction gene from,” he said. “But I’ve had it ever since I can remember.”

He studied marine architecture at Memorial University, Newfoundland, and then had the good fortune to study and work with William Garden, a legendary West Coast boat designer.

Subsequently, he worked with a big boat designing firm in Houston, Texas, for eight years, then returned to Victoria in 1994. Again, fate smiled on him: he landed a major contract and started his company.

Marshall’s story was frequently interrupted by banter and quips from Gordon Galbraith, the firm’s vice president, whose office was only a few yards away. Seeing the friendly casual interaction, I understood why the firm’s staff of about 14 has been stable, with very little turnover over the years.

The firm specializes in boats up to 200 feet in length, although it occasionally designs larger ones. About 14 boats are currently on the drawing boards for customers around the globe.

“Our best project ever was the 148-foot luxury yacht named bigfish,” said Marshall showing a few photos. “It was named one of the top 50 boats ever built and has appeared on the covers of 40 magazines.”

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Looking at the pictures and technical specifications, I was transported into the rarified world of the über-rich. bigfish is stunning, with elegant living and dining rooms and platforms around the stern for tying up seaplanes, sailboats and yacht tenders.

“There is more to yacht design than efficiency and engineering formulas,” Marshall said. “To create a yacht that satisfies the owners’ dreams demands a balance of art and science, of creativity and technology. It’s this blend of artistry and naval architecture know-how that sets our firm apart.”

“BUT NOW IT’S THEIR COMPLEXITY THAT DRAWS ME. BOATS HAVE SO MANY FACETS. I’M NEVER BORED.” The most sophisticated current project is the 138-foot luxury yacht, Atlas, which has a cruising range of 6,200 nautical miles and carries a three-person submarine capable of descending 3,000 feet below the ocean’s surface. I was green with envy on learning that Marshall and his staff occasionally get to sail

aboard these magnificent crafts.

“I’m married and my wife, Nancy, and I have three children ages 14, 16 and 19,” Marshall explained. “Our favourite family time is to go cruising on three- to four-week treks up and down the West Coast on our boat, the Linnet 3.”

Even the family cruiser is special. Designed by Bill Garden, it is 40 feet long, has a plumb bow and top speed of 24 knots.

On shore, Marshall enjoys entertaining but even his passion for cooking reflects his attitude toward boats: “I like all cooking styles, but the more complex, the better.”

Asked about his lifelong passion for boats, Marshall said, “I have no idea what it was at an early age, but I was definitely addicted. But now it’s their complexity that draws me. Boats have so many facets. I’m never bored.”

Marshall is fascinated by the application of advanced technologies to make boats better and is driving his company in that direction. He is looking at sustainable forms of power — his firm is currently designing an electric marine tender — and spoke of boat construction using 3D printing. He is connected with the Graduate School for Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island, where his interests include research into advanced technologies to make greener boats that are more environmentally friendly.

As I left, wandering through the orchard toward the carpark, my head swam with the graceful images I had seen. Marshall’s enthusiasm had quietly infected me with an appreciation of the beauty and complexity of boats.

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Relatively unknown to locals, and located deep in the heart of Victoria’s Rock Bay area, is world-renowned Silver Arrow Cars, a dealer of luxury, exotic and collectible cars. President and founder Tim Quocksister opened Silver Arrow in 2001 and has since built his name buying and selling cars around the globe, and bringing some of the best vehicles in the world through his Victoria showroom.

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Realtor Jason Binab and Joel Friesen, business manager at Silver Arrow Cars, admire a Lamborghini HuracĂĄn LP 610 through the window of Silver Arrow Cars.

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