Nextfest program guide 2020

goes on line JUNE 4 - 14 N E X T F E ST.C A

Contents WELCOME!................................................................. 4 HOW TO NEXTFEST.............................................. 6 ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION .................... 8 SUPPORT NEXTFEST........................................... 11 SCHEDULE SCHEDULE................................................................. 14 THURSDAY, JUNE 4.............................................. 17 FRIDAY, JUNE 5........................................................ 25 SATURDAY, JUNE 6................................................ 32 SUNDAY, JUNE 7...................................................... 39 TUESDAY, JUNE 9................................................... 47 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10......................................... 53 THURSDAY, JUNE 11............................................... 59 FRIDAY, JUNE 12....................................................... 65 SATURDAY, JUNE 13............................................... 77 SUNDAY, JUNE 14.................................................... 85 WORKSHOPS WORKSHOP SERIES............................................. 91 STAFF + VOLUNTEERS STAFF + VOLUNTEERS........................................ 92 Festival image, logo, and background photography by Kelsey McMillan Publication Design by Steven Teeuwsen

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! e m o c l We Nextfest marks the beginning of a long creative journey for a huge array of artists. For more than twenty years, we have fostered the growth and learning of thousands of artists who continue to practice and create on Treaty 6 land. We embody the spirit of newness and growth while respecting the deep roots planted by those who came before us.

We are a platform for emerging artists, a meeting ground for community, a springboard for creative invention.

Mentorship, inclusion, learning, creative risk, and vulnerability are at the core of everything we stand for. And so, we embrace the spirit of Tatawaw: a Cree phrase meaning “welcome, there is room.”

The Nextfest Arts Company acknowledges that we are situated on Treaty 6 territory, the home of the Nations of Cree, NakotaSioux, Blackfoot, Dene, Tsuu T’ina, Metis, and other Indigenous peoples who call this land home, who have created and gathered on these lands for thousands of years.

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At Nextfest, everyone is welcome exactly as they are.

Our circle continues to grow and evolve with our artists as they grow and evolve, too. We are still learning, and promise to continue learning from past and future generations of artists who make Nextfest possible.

We recognize and value that we are at the end and the beginning of a long line of artists, creators, and people living on and benefiting from this land. Nextfest takes responsibility for this ongoing relationship as we strive to listen, learn, and continually do better as an organization and community. We are committed to creating new beginnings, supporting revival, and providing community for everyone, as we are all Treaty People.

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O T W HO T S E F T X E N

Welcome to Nextfest 2020. This program is your guide to the next eleven days of action-packed emerging art.

WE’RE GOING ONLINE

For the first time ever, Edmonton’s emerging arts festival is going online.

Nextfest has always been about pushing the boundaries, so as we usher in the 25th year of our festival, we’re excited to keep creating and supporting artists through this time of uncertainty.

Learn how to connect with Nextfest this year at www.nextfest.ca.

CHECK IT OUT Since our festival is now online, you get to see everything for free - EVERY.

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SINGLE. THING. Visit us at The watch link is nextfest.ca/nextfesttv or at NextfestTV on Twitch every night for emerging arts like you’ve never seen before.

GET EXPERIMENTAL What is more experimental than a whole new platform?

Nextfest 2020 has been programmed for online viewing by a group of curators who believe in creating opportunities for emerging artists to experiment, grow, and produce art without censorship. Embracing the experimental with us means you will see work that moves

you in unexpected ways. It also means you might see work that includes adult content and strong language.

So put on your comfiest sweats, grab a beverage, and settle in for a night (or eleven nights!) of experimental fun.

TAKE A CHANCE

Every night will feature a digital cabaret that will encourage you to take a leap of artistic faith. Check the schedule in this handy online program and take a chance on us! Nextfest 2020 has more than 450 artists and 50 different events, performances, showcases, and parties - you never know what will make you say “wow!”

JOIN IN & SPREAD THE LOVE

It is more important than ever to stay connected and share your Nextfest experiences on the interwebs and all of the social medias. Find us on Twitter and Instagram at @NextfestArtsCo, on Facebook as The Nextfest Arts Company, or just hashtag #nxtfst.

Support each other online and look out for what other artists are up to. This is the perfect time to show extra love to our community on social media and beyond.

Also, remember to post your #nxtfst from home couture - we’re sure to throw some hearts your way.

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Y T I L I B I S S E C AC N O I T A M R O F N I

Our festival is for everyone, and we are continually working to improve the accessibility of our events. Have feedback?

We want to hear from you.

For any questions about accessibility, please contact the Theatre Network Box Office by calling (780) 453-2440 or emailing us at hello@nextfest.ca.

ASL ACCESSIBILITY

Some of our shows will have closed captions.

Look for the CC in the corner next to the show title, contact the Theatre Network Box Office by calling (780) 453-2440, or email us at hello@nextfest.ca for a list of shows that will have closed captions.

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SAFE(R) SPACES

Nextfest is for all to grow, learn and inspire each other for years to come! We invite you to be part of the movement and celebrate!

Our Safe(r) Spaces policy has been constructed to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all persons involved with The Nextfest Arts Company, and develop a culture of mutual respect throughout the organization.

The Nextfest Arts Company adheres to Safe(r) Spaces Policies. To read our full Code of Conduct and Safe(r) Spaces policy please visit nextfest.ca/ safer-space-and-code-of-conduct-policy/

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The New Roxy Theatre on 124 Street is under construction!

Visit theatrenetwork.ca/the-new-roxy and find out how to support the future home of Nextfest.

T R O P SUP T S E F T X NE Taking Nextfest online means our parent company, Theatre Network, will not generate revenue from ticket sales this year. Though Nextfest has never been about making it big at the box office, a little goes a long way. Ticket sales help us continue to pay artists (many of whom make their first paycheck as artists with us!) and keep our Festival accessible to the community.

Though we’re making significant changes to the way Nextfest is delivered this year, we stand by our commitment to making sure artists and staff are paid for their work.

That’s why we need your donations to carry us through this extremely challenging time.

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Want to support Theatre Network and Nextfest?

Here’s how you can help:

1. ADOPT AN ARTIST

Hurray! We are continuing the long-standing Nextfest tradition of pairing artists with generous donors.

You choose the artist you want to support!

When you donate to this program, you help us help artists. Your donation ensures the next generation of emerging artists can find their foothold in the Edmonton arts community.

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Adoption: $100/artist Benefits: • A special thank you from your adopted artist(s) • Your name displayed alongside your artist(s)’ name(s) on our digital Adopt-an-Artist wall • An exclusive Nextfest t-shirt • A tax receipt for the full donation amount.

Visit nextfest.ca to Adopt-an-Artist OR call (780) 453-2440.

2. DONATE A TICKET OR PASS This year, our festival is free to enjoy. In lieu of ticket and pass sales, we are encouraging Nextfest supporters to donate based on a level that best reflects their usual Nextfest experience.

Suggested Donation Amounts: • Single Ticket: $12 • Day Passes: $20 • Festival Passes: $40 Benefits: All donations $20 and above will receive a shoutout during the evening performances and a tax receipt for the full donated amount.

Visit nextfest.ca to donte OR call (780) 453-2440.

The Nextfest Arts Company is committed to developing the next generation of artists and your donation is an endorsement of this commitment.

Thank you for supporting us. Your donation will become part of the growth of hundreds of artists for years to come. We cannot thank you enough.

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SChedule THURSDAY, JUNE 4

SATURDAY, JUNE 6

FESTIVAL OPENING

NIGHTLY WELCOME

7:00PM - 10:30PM WELCOME

7:00PM - 11:00PM WELCOME

FILM

FILM

DANCE

THEATRE

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

SANE-ISH MIDDLE CLASS ASIANS HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

THE RED SUN RISES ON CHRIST CITY THEATRE

SAM AT THE BASE OF THE MOUNTAIN

ONENINEEIGHTFOUR BIRD SIGNS DANCE

DISGRUNTLED

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW THEATRE

UNDER WATER

DANCE

SPOKEN WORD POETRY

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW THEATRE

DJ

LINKED EXPRESSIONS DON’T LET ME GO MUSIC

MARLAENA MOORE DJ

GOLDEN GREY

COME HOME DJ TABI

SUNDAY, JUNE 7

6:00PM - 9:00PM

7:00PM - 11:00PM WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME TO:FOR:

I’M FINE

MULTIDISCIPLINARY

THE INVISIBLE PRACTICE THEATRE

EMBRACE MUSIC MULTIDISCIPLINARY

THE ARTIST VS...

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10 7:00PM - 10:00PM WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME

WELCOME

DANCE CLOWN

DANCE

HOW ARE YOU FEELING?

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW THEATRE

WELCOME

THEATRE

HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

FILM

HIGH SCHOOL FILM

DANCE

HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW

MUSIC

FRIDAY, JUNE 5

7:00PM - 11:00PM

NIGHTLY WELCOME GREAT SALT LAKE THIS IS NOT AN ORIGINAL CONUNDRUM THEATRE

THE NANCY DREWISCAL THEATRE

FINDING SPIRIT NITE CLUB

THE EXTREME SUPREME QUARANTINE PJ PARTY!

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TUESDAY, JUNE 9

NIGHTLY WELCOME TALK BACK TO FOLLOW

YOU GOT ME? SLEEP

CHRISTINA HOLLINGWORTH MERCY FUNK DJ

BAILEBAIL

THEBYSTANDER ME, MYSELF & I

THE LEFTOVER COMEDY SPECIAL STAND UP COMEDY

COMEDY BY CINDY LYN RIVERS SKETCH COMEDY

NEXTFEST SKETCH COMEDY SHOWCASE 2020

THURSDAY, JUNE 11

FILM

NIGHTLY WELCOME

DANCE

7:00PM - 10:00PM WELCOME FILM

THE STOIC DANCE

PUZZLE PARTS

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW HIGH SCHOOL IMPROV

IMPROV 4X4X4

HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC

KAELI MORRIS MUSIC

MALLORY CHIPMAN & .

THE MYSTICS

FRIDAY, JUNE 12

6:00PM - 11:00PM WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME THEATRE

THE SPACE IN BETWEEN DANCE

AGETHER TOPART

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW THEATRE

ACCEPTANCE FILM

KNOW

NERDVANA THE SERIES EPISODE: A HOT PIECE .

OF ASH SOFT AND DARK, QUIET .

AND SHAKING TALK BACK TO FOLLOW DANCE

BEAUTIFUL SOUL

NOTSO SAD –JONNY HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

A CREATURE IN THE MIST

POSITIVE

FAMILY INJERA

SATURDAY, JUNE 13 6:00PM - 11:00PM WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME DANCE FILM

NOT-SO SUPERHERO THEATRE

HIGH SCHOOL PODCAST

ELIJAH’S QUESTION FILM

FILM TALK BACK MUSIC

ROGER RUBEKA DJ

JAY SLAY

FRUIT SNACK FILM

CONVERSATIONS THEATRE PODCAST

HOME AGAIN CLOWN

IS THIS THING ON? - A WEBCAM CABARET FOR CLOWNS DRAG

NITE CLUB

WITCHES OF THE WOOD

FILM

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW DJ

THE ROAD FORWARD

HIGH SCHOOL FILM THEATRE

NIGHTLY WELCOME

HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

MISSING YOU

WHAT DO YOU WANT???

6:00PM - 11:00PM WELCOME

TALK BACK TO FOLLOW DANCE

IVY’S MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: MEET THE CLASS

HIGH SCHOOL DANCE

SUNDAY, JUNE 14

EMERGENT EMANCIPATIONS

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, y a d s r u h T 4 e n u J

7:00PM - 10:30PM

June 4 - welcome ďˆŠ

FESTIVAL OPENING Artists! Audiences! Volunteers!

Nextfest Super Fans! Everyone is welcome. Join the virtual party and help start the festival off with a bang! The Nextfest Opening Ceremonies features a warm welcome from our host as we usher in our 2020 festival.

Ratings and content warnings for the evening’s performances will be shared.

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June 4 - FilM

SANE-ISH MIDDLE CLASS ASIANS directed by Lisa Alyx Bui

Tarot cards can serve as guides and our root culture contains values and patterns that may help us understand our world. Saneish Middle Class Asians is a queer love story that incorporates tarot, mysticism, and the feelings of longing for someone forbidden. This film attempts to straddle the space and intersections between different identities and cultures.

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June 4 - HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

THE RED SUN RISES ON CHRIST CITY written and performed by Spinelli Teleski

This is a story about two Thursday’s ten years apart.

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June 4 - Theatre

SAM AT THE BASE OF THE MOUNTAIN written and directed by Yousuf Liepert

sam stands at the base of the mountain. the mountain is immutable, but sam isn’t. but the mountain isn’t, but sam is. sam is many. much of the same, but different. very different, but somehow familiar. sam is an in between space - a space of meeting between the mind and the body, the other and the self, intellect and emotion, trust and hesitance. meet sam. featuring Chelsea Du Toit, Stella Ferra, Ava Novak, Barbara Lopez, Aideen Reynolds, Ramsey Shindell, Daniela Urdaneta, Giuliana Mancini, Dana Prather, Max Mooney, Neeta Lachmandas, Francisco Morandi, Storm Hartley, Daniel Holzman, Montserrat Videla, Karen Stewart, Jess Kantorowitz, and Marianna Hoitt-Lange

INTERMISSION

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June 4 - Dance

LINKED EXPRESSIONS choreographed by Kiruthika Rathanaswami edited by Ethan White

Students at the Victoria School of the Arts were introduced to one of India’s classical dance forms, bharata natyam, through a series of video material created by the choreographer Kiruthika Rathanswami.

They will perform two choreographies: Nritta (pure dance sequence) and Nritya (use of hand gestures, emotions, body language to depict a story). featuring Dance Xtreme students from Victoria High School

June 4 - Talk Back

TALK BACK SESSION: LINKED EXPRESSIONS Choreographer Kiruthika Rathanaswami chats about the creation of Linked Expressions.

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June 4 - Theatre

DON’T LET ME GO

by Gavin Dyer

As a society, we are more connected to each other now than we ever have been in history. Yet more people every day consider themselves lonely. A service arises to help people who consider themselves “touch deprived.” Alex jumps on the opportunity, but when the stranger shows up for the service, the individual is not what he anticipated at all. He craves this, but is this service for him?

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June 4 - Music

MARLAENA MOORE Marlaena Moore is an enigmatic performer with an incredible presence and soaring voice.

Her songs cross personal bedroom confessionals with grunge influenced guitar tones in a tight pop-song package. On her third record, Pay Attention!

Be Amazed!, the 26 year-old musician shifts her perspective and growth in different ways.

June 4 - DJ

GOLDEN GREY Traverse the universe on an electronic journey with Golden Grey. Through soft bells and steady rhythms conveying a variety of emotions, Golden Grey presents electronic music that is simple, yet cinematic inspired by artists such as Tennyson, Baths, and Tyco.

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, y a d i Fr 5 e n u J

PM 0 0 : 1 1 7:00PM

June 5 - Welcome

NIGHTLY WELCOME Night two of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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June 5 - FILM

GREAT SALT LAKE directed by Becky Johnson

This is a fun, animated, musical story that shows a family pushing through adversity with a little bit of luck and innovation. With a catchy tune and a delightfully silly story, Great Salt Lake (the Pickles Song) is entertaining for all ages!

June 5 - DANCE

THIS IS NOT AN ORIGINAL CONUNDRUM choreographed by Katie Cassady

This is not an original conundrum is a contemporary dance solo exploring the artist’s personal journey as a choreographer to create meaningful work.

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June 5 - TALK BACK

TALK BACK SESSION: THIS IS NOT AN ORIGINAL CONUNDRUM Choreographer Katie Cassady chats about the creation of This is Not An Original Conundrum with talk back host, Becky Sadowski.

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June 5 - THEATRE

THE NANCY DREWISCAL book by Jacquelin Walters and Logan Stefura music by Michael Watt lyrics by Jacquelin Walters directed by Logan Stefura

In The Nancy Drewsical, we meet the legendary teen detective nearing the end of her High School career. The cocky young crime-solver is burning the candle at both ends, and is about to be faced with her spookiest case yet. This satirical, energetic adaptation is a story about learning to ask for help, growing up, and, most importantly, about people turning into birds. featuring Arden Phillips, Emi Gusdal, Cassie Hyman, and Morgan Thomas

INTERMISSION

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June 5 - THEATRE Night Owl Theatre presents

FINDING SPIRIT written and performed by Dylan Thomas-Bouchier

Living in this world is hard, confusing, and traumatic. Finding Spirit is a one-person show about different people all trying to live their lives while outside and inward forces make them question what they are living for. As the world keeps going, people can lose their spirits along the way and each person we meet is on their own path to finding what spirit is.

This project is early in development.

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INTERMISSION

June 5 - NITE CLUB

THE EXTREME SUPREME QUARANTINE PJ PARTY! curated by Mackenzie Brown

Join Mackenzie Brown and a plethora of talented artists for the best show you don’t have to leave your house for! Every act will be performed in pajamas and wearing pj’s in the comfort of your own home is highly encouraged. So slip on your slippers and prepare for a magical evening of exciting and diverse acts! Who knew you could have so much fun without leaving your home!? featuring Jay the Magician, Nasra, Tammy Rae, SooShe, Ayla Modeste, Vanessa Beaudry, Niuboi, and Mackenzie Brown

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, y a d r u t a 6 S e n u J

PM 0 0 : 1 1 M P 0 7:0

June 6 - Welcome

NIGHTLY WELCOME Night three of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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June 6 - FILM

ONENINEEIGHTFOUR directed by Sara Campos-Silvius

OneNineEightFour is a spoken word performance exploring anxiety in the age of technology.

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June 6 - THEATRE Persistent Myth Productions presents

BIRD SIGNS written and performed by Hayley Moorhouse directed by Isabel Bergquist

I’ve written you a letter. This letter is about birds. Birds and signs.

Birds and signs, and obsession. And hope. And fear. And a desperate search for meaning in the mundane. But like, there’s woodpeckers and stuff.

Bird Signs premiered as a solo theatre performance in a Nextfest 2019 workshop. This year, it transforms into a multi-disciplinary digital experiment.

Bird Signs

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A free bird leaps on the back of the wind and floats downstream till the current ends and dips his wing in the orange sun rays and dares to claim the sky.

But a bird that stalks down his narrow cage can seldom see through his bars of rage his wings are clipped and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing.

The caged bird sings with a fearful trill of things unknown but longed for still and his tune is heard on the distant hill for the caged bird sings of freedom.

The free bird thinks of another breeze and the trade winds soft through the sighing trees

Now I must trouble and the fat worms waitingyou on awith dawn certain bright lawnabstract matters,

am inclined to think the best and most sensible all round would be for me to go away and to keep my to cease to be, as it were. What the season is for birds - the time when they lose their - setbacks, misfortune and hard times are for us human ou can cling on to the moulting season, you can also emerge eborn, but it must not be done in public.

June 6 - DANCE Momo Movement presents

DISGRUNTLED choreographed by Kyra Newton music composed by Eric Smith

Disgruntled is a mixed-ability contemporary dance piece performed

by Kathy Austin, a woman who is blind, and Shannon Parker, a woman without a disability. The piece explores conflict between two people and the emotions that arise when one is not seen, heard, or understood.

Disgruntled aims to pose the question: how does it feel when you are not seen, heard, or understood, and how do you identify conflict and find it’s resolution? featuring Shannon Parker and Kathy Austin

June 6 - Talk Back

TALK BACK SESSION: DISGRUNTLED A chat about the creation of Disgruntled.

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INTERMISSION

June 6 - THEATRE

UNDER WATER

by Katherine DeCoste

A chocolate cake, an uncooked lasagna, and a murder mystery novel. When a family wrought by tragedy comes together to celebrate a birthday party, the weight of their secrets becomes too much to bear.

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June 6 - SPOKEN WORD poetry

COME HOME curated by Nisha Patel

Come Home is a poetry showcase focusing on the stories of journeying through and towards oneself. Join these prominent poets as we speak to who we are, where we come from, and where we hope our bodies will take us next. featuring Nisha Patel, Timiro Mohamed, Isabel Yang, and Qurat Dar

June 6 - DJ

DJ TABI By way of LA, DJ Tabi is here for the party! Having rocked some of the most prestigious dance floors known to date, he mixes all genres with a twist and flair that never disappoints. Prepare for a rocking good time!

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, y a d n u s 7 e n u J

0PM 0 : 9 6:00PM

June 7 - Welcome

NIGHTLY WELCOME Night three of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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June 7 - DANCE

HOW ARE YOU FEELING? filmography and choreography by Declan Baker and Jerica Hoskins-Turenne music: Varรฐeldur by Sigur Rรณs

Although we may be isolating and staying home we are still able to create together. This piece represents the universal emotions we are all feeling. This journey has taught us how to always stay connected through art with the help of one another. How do you feel? featuring Abby Hanson, Amanda Procter, Mackenzie Trofimuk, Piper Macdonald, Nadia Funaro, Declan Baker, and Jerica Hoskins-Turenne

June 7 - Talk Back

TALK BACK SESSION: HOW ARE YOU FEELING? Co-directors and choreographers Delan Baker and Jerica HoskinsTurenne chat about the creation of How Are Your Feeling?.

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June 7 - THEATRE

YOU GOT ME? written by Madi May

From toxic friendships to unrequited love, high schoolers face it all, often alongside their friends. You Got Me? is about how and why we choose the kinds of people we surround ourselves with, and how our friends can either make us better people or stay stagnant.

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June 7 HIGH SCHOOL FILM

SLEEP written and directed

by Lucia Rodriguez-Cavanagh filmed and edited

by Lauren Toporowski

This piece is centred around feeling stuck in cycles, the idea of escapism, and exploring what we do to escape our everyday lives. Sleep follows the journey of two people and their intense desire for change, control, and connection. This messy, often shortsighted desire for change of any kind leaves these two people exactly where they began: doomed to repeat their destructive cycle over and over again. featuring Sydney Jackson and Warren Suggit

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INTERMISSION

June 7 - HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC

CHRISTINA HOLLINGWORTH Christina Hollingworth is a multitalented thirteen-year-old singer-songwriter who plays the piano and ukulele. She’s also a member of Enoch Cree Nation, which is a first nation located near Edmonton, Alberta.

Christina’s motivation for her music is finding a way to express her thoughts and feelings about her personal life experiences. She wants to have fun with her songs and that comes through in the melodies and words.

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June 7 - MUSIC

MERCY FUNK Mercy Funk is known for their familiar yet fresh sound. Combining pop, R&B, soul, and funk influences, the band always guarantees a good time for fans of all ages. Their self-titled record earned them an Edmonton Music Award nomination for Best R&B/Soul Recording of the Year for their song Hey!. Now with summer events and gigs canceled, the band is focusing on creating new music.

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June 7 - DJ

BAILEBAIL Focused on house and bass house, bailebaile promises to keep the house moving Sunday night with his eclectic selection of sound.

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, y a d s e Tu 9 e n u J

PM 0 0 : 1 1 7:00PM

June 9 - Welcome

NIGHTLY WELCOME Night five of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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June 9 - DANCE

TO:.

FOR: directed by Allison Vicente and Howard Dai

A letter that speaks of vulnerability and compassion. Created in collaboration with the performers, this piece breathes and thrives through all of you. May we all find solace in art. featuring Cindy Kao, Stefan Nazarevich, Amy Griffith, Kevin Locsin, Christian Ching, and Sam Mason

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June 9 HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

I’M FINE

by Miko Pelletier directed by Miko Pelletier and Avery Przyswitt

I’m Fine takes place inside someone’s brain. The emotions interact and fight each other on a journey to discover what it actually means to be healthy and stable.

June 9 - TALK BACK

TALK BACK SESSION: TO: FOR: Director Allison Vicente and Howard Dai discuss To: For: with talk back host, Becky Sadowski.

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June 9 - MULTIDISCIPLINARY

THE INVISIBLE PRACTICE created by Connor Yuzwenko-Martin

Inspired by the acclaimed book The Glass Bead Game by Hermann Hesse, Connor embarks on a journey of symbology and introspection.

Viewers are invited to watch segments of his life story being portrayed on an unconventional game board, and to consider how their own stories might be part of this strange playground. An online archive of the various objects from Connor’s life will be available to help unlock some of the mysteries of the game.

Between now and Nextfest 2021, the archive will accept contributions with the goal of creating an even larger game that can be explored and manipulated in person. Together, we will engage in the Invisible Practice.

INTERMISSION

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June 9 - THEATRE Fantasie Freimark Creations presents

EMBRACE written and directed by Ashley Freimark

Embrace is a semi-autobiographical one-act play written by Ashley Freimark. It focuses on the life of Juliette LaFrere, a young struggling artist with a shadow looming over her, dictating what she does and says as she works on her art and social life. This piece focuses on one way mental health may impact a person, and brings a visual comparison to something that is otherwise invisible.

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June 9 - MUSIC MULTIDISCIPLINARY iHuman Studios presents

THE ARTIST VS...

A broadcast featuring artist profiles, music, flicks, how to, how did, who dat, wherefore and more from Edmonton’s largest, coolest, baddest, kindest, multi-disciplinary artistic collective iHuman Studios. featuring the stylings of Amplify1, Valkyrie, Matt Cardinal, Ronin, Pr$cy, Faves, Amina, Coach, and many more! iHuman Studios gratefully acknowledges the support of the Alberta Foundation for the Arts.

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, y a d s e n d We 0 1 e n u J

0PM 0 : 0 1 7:00PM

June 10 - WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME Night six of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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June 10 - DANCE CLOWN

THEBYSTANDER choreographed by Lauren Brady

What is the actual relationship between audience and performer?

Who is truly witnessing the events? Is it the audience watching the performer and reacting, or is it the performer witnessing the reactions of the audience? Or is it something in between? theBYSTANDER experiments with the relationship between audience and performer by incorporating clown work into dance practice.

Featuring Max Hanic, Julia van Dam, Zachary Strom, and Thomas Kassian

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June 10 - TALK BACK

TALK BACK SESSION: THEBYSTANDER Choreographer Lauren Brady and cast discuss theBYSTANDER with talk back host, Becky Sadowski.

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June 10 - THEATRE

ME, MYSELF & I written and performed by Jaseena Elvin

This show has a dog, cats (kind of), alcohol, headbanging and pop music, a nemesis, a catloving friend, and a love interest (because it’s a must). Combine all those ideas into a play written and starring Jaseena Elvin, with a re-telling of comedic events that have happened in her life, in a fairytale-like story with a happy ending?

June 10 - HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

THE LEFTOVER COMEDY SPECIAL written by Madison May directed by Tessa Yakimchuk

With the pandemic surrounding us, sometimes it feels like there is little comfort. Luckily for everyone, laughter is the best medicine.

While we may not have the best comedians, we do have the ones that were leftover. These comedians may not be that funny, but they are fun to laugh at. The Leftover Comedy is a satire on stand up, storytelling, and bad jokes. featuring Grace Young, Jacquelyn Routledge, Madi May, and Aaron Yakimchuk

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INTERMISSION

June 10 - STAND UP COMEDY

COMEDY BY CINDY LYN RIVERS Cindy has performed and headlined all over western Canada. She was selected for the top 100 for the CBC’s NEXT UP national comedy competition, a finalist in the Grindstone comedy competition, and she has performed at the Los Angeles Diversity in Comedy Festival

by Second City and in the Las Vegas Laughed Out Comedy Festival. Cindy has opened for the wonderful Hannah Gadsby and has performed at Just for Laughs Northwest. She’s slightly awkward and quirky but all funny.

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June 10 - SKETCH COMEDY Don’t Not Talk to Strangers presents

NEXTFEST SKETCH COMEDY SHOWCASE 2020 Outstanding wits and comedy bits. Come for a laugh, stay because you’re stuck inside. featuring Don’t Not Talk To Strangers, The Debutantes, Filliam Crowe, Paul Blinov, That’s My Wife, Dang Dumb, Chuckle Ruckus, Girl Brain, Success 5000, Blackout Sketch Comedy, Marv n’ Berry, Ms. Perfect Boy, and River Valley Theatre Co.

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June 11 - WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME Night seven of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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June 11 - Film

THE STOIC directed by Nauzanin Knight

An underdog’s artistic journey unfolds in a subtle snapshot of a great writer in the making.

June 11 - DANCE

PUZZLE PARTS choreographed by Deviani Andrea Bonilla music: To Be Known

An experiment to discover how the home video format can highlight the different parts of the body in motion. The nature of each body part is exposed, since, by freeing itself from the body as an entity and becoming the star of the video, the inhibitions, conventions and presumptions about its dance scope give way to the discourse of the hand, the chest or the ear. Now tell me, have you ever seen a clavicle dance?

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june 11 - TALK BACK

TALK BACK SESSION: PUZZLE PARTS Choreographer Deviani Andrea discusses Puzzle Parts.

June 11 - HIGH SCHOOL IMPROV Vanguard Collective presents

IMPROV 4X4X4 The Vanguard Improv Showcase takes on Nextfest 2020! Hold onto your couch cushions because the Vanguard is showcasing senior improvisors by bringing students from across the city, mixing up the teams, and presenting the Improv 4x4x4: 4 teams x 4 scenes each x 4 minutes. featuring Madi May, Tessa Yakimchuk, Caleb Willis, Grace Fitzgerald, Teio Suyal, Thomas Moore, Brant Harker, Lilyan Shih, Rose Miller, Zachary Champ, Simone Gosselin, Alex Galarneau, Nicholas Walter, Rachel Conklin, Riti Shah, Kobe Anderson, Christina Ledohowski, Jaidyn McMahon, Amanda Procter, Negede Kaffa, and Dalianna Melgar

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INTERMISSION

June 11 HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC

KAELI MORRIS Kaeli Morris is seventeen-yearold singer-songwriter who has a way of evoking powerhouse singers from the past while bringing something entirely new and undefinable to her music.

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June 11 - MUSIC

MALLORY CHIPMAN & THE MYSTICS Mallory Chipman & The Mystics’ new album, Aquarian, embraces an entirely new approach to making music. Chipman has reconnected with her inner rocker and transformed her sound into a genreobliterating sonic experience that seems to channel Frank Zappa, Joni Mitchell, and Esperanza Spalding all at once. Chipman is ready to reveal her true musical identity, one not easily defined, but sure to turn a lot of heads and blow a lot of minds.

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, y a d i r 2 1 F e n u J

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June 12 - WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME Night eight of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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june 12 - THEATRE The LC Performance Lab presents

THE SPACE IN BETWEEN created and performed by Lebogang Diselle

The Space in Between is a solo performance that fuses movement and poetry to reflect on what it means to be Black, African, and a woman in Canada in the post-TRC moment. It is a meditation on how we take up space in the world, how those of us who inhabit marginalized bodies advocate for our rights and live up to our responsibilities ethically, in relation to others who are like us but not quite.

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June 12 - DANCE

AGETHER TOPART directed by and featuring Hannah Shikatani, Rumi Jeraj, and Cassandra Grose

This project is an attempt to exercise our creative agency in the strange world we are currently living in. The project is an interactive dance film where participants can navigate their way through movement to one of two possible endings. The film focuses on themes of isolation, time, space, and connection; as we use resources available to us in isolation.

We invite you to dive in, get lost and we’ll see you on the other side.

june 12 - TALK BACK

TALK BACK SESSION: AGETHER TOPART Hannah Shikatani, Rumi Jeraj, and Cassandra Grose, co-directors and performers in Agether Topart, discuss their dance performance with talk back host, Becky Sadowski.

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june 12 - THEATRE

ACCEPTANCE

by Rae Organ

A story of acceptance that revolves around six young people. It follows Gabe, Kevin, Liz, Spencer, Miranda, and Jane as they all find their own way to acceptance—acceptance of others and who they are. This story is told through the eyes of LGBTQ+ people who all lead separate lives that are intertwined with each other and how they help each other. featuring Abigail LaForest, Austin Kumar, Rae Organ, Michelle Jolly, Alexa Huss, and Astrid Deibert

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june 12 - FILM

KNOW directed and filmed by Kristian Stec and Braydon Dowler Coltman music and lyrics by Lyra Brown

Know is a music video from Lyra Brown’s single of the same name. A story of an angel reflecting on memories, and a woman who expresses herself through dance, the interweaving of these two individuals tells a story of letting go of the past, to embrace the present.

june 12 HIGH SCHOOL DANCE

MISSING YOU created and performed

by Darrien Byers

Missing You is about someone dealing with the loss of a mentor/loved one. It started out with losing someone who was a huge mentor and inspiration, here was my way of coping with the loss.

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june 12 - HIGH SCHOOL FILM

WHAT DO YOU WANT??? written and directed by Laura Cervera-Fuentes

What do we search from the audience as artists? Do we want approval? Recognition? Fame? Love? Fun? Is being an artist an outlet for your insecurities or the source?

Four artists explore the ideas of what it really means to be an artist. When originality is hard to find, they work together with the audience to figure out what we all truly want from art. featuring Von Andrew Ullero Collado, Sarah Woodruff, Paige Lennox, and Ailsa Brazeau

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june 12 - THEATRE

INTERMISSION

Straight Edge Theatre presents

WITCHES OF THE WOOD book and lyrics by Bethany Hughes, Seth Gilfillan, and Stephen Allred music by Daniel Belland directed by Stephan Allred

A spooky comedy about three witches…in the woods! After performing a taboo service for the Prince, they find themselves in their own sticky situation.

Add in seduction, secrets, murder, invisible turtles, and you’ve got yourself a Straight Edge Musical. From the creators of the Fringe Hits “Cult Cycle” and “Imaginary Friend” comes another social commentary with dick jokes and power ballads.

The Blair Witch wishes. featuring Alyson Horne, Anthony Hurst, Daniela Fernandez, Jaimi Reese, and Nadine Veroba

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june 12 - FILM

NERDVANA THE SERIES EPISODE: .

A HOT PIECE OF ASH The nerdy staff of Nerdvana love to sell comics, but things get stranger than usual when an ancient object fueled by imagination is uncovered.

Taking place immediately after the pilot, team Nerdvana learns the story of the Zachary from another universe, what is hidden inside the M’Guphynn Box and who is Evil Ash?

june 12 - DANCE

SOFT AND DARK, QUIET AND SHAKING choreographed by Ainsley Hillyard and Konomi Kikuchi

The force per unit area exerted by a fluid against a surface with which it is in contact. A relationship between ideas or qualities with conflicting demands or implications. featuring Konomi Kikuchi

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June 12 - TALK BACK

TALK BACK SESSION: SOFT AND DARK, QUIET AND SHAKING Talk back host, Becky Sadowski, talks to the artists behind Soft and Dark, Quiet and Shaking.

june 12 - DANCE

BEAUTIFUL SOUL choreographed by Alison Neuman

Beautiful Soul is an exploration of vulnerability and the connection between identity and memory. featuring Kaylee Borgstrom

June 12 - TALK BACK

TALK BACK SESSION: BEAUTIFUL SOUL Talk back host, Becky Sadowski, talks to the artists behind Beautiful Soul.

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June 12 - DANCE

THE ROAD FORWARD choreographed by Skye Demas and Kendra Shorter directed by Marie Clements produced by Teri Snelgrove and Shirley Vercruysse

The road moving forward from colonization. We created this duet to compliment a track from the musical documentary “The Road Forward.” The documentary has been described as a “rousing tribute to the fighters for First Nations rights, a soul-resounding historical experience, and a visceral call to action.” featuring Skye Demas and Kendra Shorter with Richard E.Brown, M.J. Dandeneau, Shakti Hayes, Jeremy James Lavallee, Wayne Lavallee, Murray Porter, Ron Harris, Wayne Lavallee, Jeremy James Lavallee, Latash-Maurice Nahanee, Corey Payette, Murray Porter, Russell Wallace, Cheri Maracle, Shakti Hayes, Delhia, Nahanee, Michelle St.John, Jennifer Elizabeth Kreisburg, Richard E.Brown, Marissa Nahanee, and Shamantsut Amanda Nahanee

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June 12 - TALK BACK

TALK BACK SESSION: THE ROAD FORWARD Talk back host, Becky Sadowski, talks to the artists behind The Road Forward.

JUne 12 - DJ

FAMILY INJERA Mustafa Rafiq is a multidisciplinary artist based in Treaty 6 land in Edmonton, Alberta. Their primary focus recently has been in exploring feelings connected with diaspora, gender expression, and alienation through sound art, performing solo under Family Injera.

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Sat u rday , Jun e June 13 - WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME

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6:00 PM 11:00 PM

Night nine of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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June 13 - DANCE FILM Problem Child & Co. presents

FRUIT SNACK created by Eric Pinkerton directed by Tia Kushniruk

Fruit Snack is an absurd, candycoloured journey following six kids as they search for their very own paradise, while they grapple with the idea of what that really means. As time passes, they are forced to confront what is holding them back, and question if paradise even exists at all. This film is a snapshot of a dance piece of the same name. featuring Shammy Belmore, Ora Burns, Hannah Chyz, Sarah Emslie, Elya Hunt, and Eric Pinkerton

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June 13 - FILM

CONVERSATIONS directed by Ruth Gilliland

Conversations explores the experience of suicidal thoughts and the hope of living.

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June 13 - THEATRE PODCAST Cardiac Theatre & What It Is Productions presents

HOME AGAIN

by Calla Wright presented as part of the Alberta Queer Calendar Project

Judith and Adam are old friends who haven’t seen each other in years. As teenagers, they spent a lot of time getting drunk or high and baring their souls to each other. Judith, who has moved away, runs away from her new city when her wife gives birth to a stillborn child. She goes to find Adam, only to discover that he has just attempted suicide. Judith saves his life, and drives him out into the desert, where they embark on a journey of inebriation, life, death, and everything in between. featuring Chiara Tate-Penna, Josh Travnik, and Daniel Belland

INTERMISSION

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June 13 - CLOWN re:Create productions presents

IS THIS THING ON? - A WEBCAM CABARET FOR CLOWNS curated by Philip -pH(Lin)- Hackborn

A clown always knows when they have an audience, but what happens when that audience is behind a webcam? How confident is a clown in the ability to use modern communications technology? Are they afraid the audience is trapped behind the glass of the screen, or is the clown trapped?

For decades we’ve asked what gets lost in translation when we communicate digitally, and now we can peer through the electric veil to glimpse at just how much a clown loves their audience when torn asunder from them.

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June 13 - DRAG

IVY’S MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: MEET THE CLASS written by Ivy League

After the dismissal of their iconic teacher, the students of room 3.14 didn’t think things could get worse. However as a pandemic creeps through the world they are faced with an even more terrifying new reality...VIRTUAL LEARNING! Join the class as Little League Productions showcases some of Edmonton’s most fabulous up-and-coming drag entertainers in a wacky and wild adventure ONLINE! featuring Divina Diefor, Bravo Charlie, Sir Racha, Severina, Margaret Snatcher, Shay Nanigans, Ivy League, and more!

Warning: Suggestive themes, some coarse language, and a whole lot of fabulousness.

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June 13 - NITE CLUB

EMERGENT EMANCIPATIONS curated by Simone A. Medina Polo

Emergent Emancipations is an interdisciplinary cabaret for the 2020 Pride Nite Club. Through the variety of these performances, we are exploring the prospects of the future as they intersect with the experiences of emerging as an artist and of emerging into queerness.

And in adapting to the quarantine’s state of isolation and social distancing, we are encouraging artistic explorations of how our sense of futurity has also shifted. featuring Sare, Jay the Juggling Magician, Eggs, KSTRL, and Mustafa Rafiq

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The Old Strathcona Business Association stands with the arts during these challenging times and recognizes how vital festivals like Nextfest are to our community.

Follow our social channels or visit oldstrathcona.ca to find out how the businesses in our ‘hood are adapting!

@OLDSTRATHCONA

, y a d n 4 u 1 s e n u J

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June 14 - WELCOME

NIGHTLY WELCOME Night ten of Nextfest 2020 opens with a warm welcome from our host and some discussion of what to expect this evening.

Ratings and content warnings will be shared.

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June 14 - FILM

NOTSO SAD –JONNY directed by Jonathan Nelner

Animation, claymation, and collage come together in this whimsical music video. Because of it, the director is currently a member at Fabricland.

June 14 - HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

A CREATURE IN THE MIST directed and written by Madysyn Batsch

Two friends meet up at a park after a neighbour spills a secret.

They want revenge but instead have to figure out a way to stay alive. Do they succeed or do they become the mist’s next victims? featuring Madysyn Batsch and Gillian Murray

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June 14 - HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

NOT-SO SUPERHERO written and directed by Chidinma Amogu

Reid has superpowers. She’s had them all her life—and she’s been able to hide them all her life. All of that changes after an unfortunate encounter with a speeding truck and a crosswalk full of children.

Now there’s a pesky supervillain knocking at her window bearing illadvised gifts, and she’s racking her brain trying to figure out how to tell them and everyone else that she is NOT a superhero. featuring Bonny Wu, Erica Kim, Rika Fernandez, Elena Potlug, and Alex Wang

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June 14 - HIGH SCHOOL PODCAST

ELIJAH’S QUESTION written and directed

by Leannah (Will) McIntosh assistant playwright and director: Simone Gosselin Audio Technician: Rachel Conklin

One question, one dark day, and one false move. Join these three teenagers as they recount the day their lives changed forever. featuring Alec Fownes, Hannah Bilodeau, and Raul Montoute

June 14 - THEATRE

POSITIVE written by Emanuel Dubbeldam directed by Sarah Culkin

Kelsey wants to be a mom.

Like, now. But Kelsey is single, so she enlists the help of her best friend‌and his husband. Positive explores unconventional conception, queer love, and the ways we choose to build our families.

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June 14 - FILM

FILM TALK BACK

INTERMISSION

hosted by Katie Cutting

Have your questions ready! Here is your opportunity to chat with our 2020 Nextfest filmmakers in this talk back.

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June 14 - MUSIC

ROGER RUBEKA Roger Rubeka is a Fort McMurray artist, best known by his students as “Mr. R.” He is an educator by profession and a songwriter by trade.

June 14 - DJ

JAY SLAY Jay Slay is a Canadian electronic music producer/ classically trained pianist with 3 Beatport Staff Picks/4 Top 10s, FM radio play on 110+ Canadian/American stations, a nomination for Electronic Recording of the Year 2017 at the Edmonton Music Awards.

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p o h s k r s o e i W r e S

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Build Skills. Spark Discussion. Refine Practices.

Get Involved. All online. The Nextfest Arts Company presents the Nextfest Workshop Series.

The platform has changed but the connections have not. We’re bridging the gap between artistic training and the real world of being an artist through the internet.

Participants will be given a common ground for discussion and the unique opportunity to learn from like-minded individuals.

Workshops will invite dedicated professional mentors and experts from the professional arts communities to teach, lead, and facilitate workshops directed at artistic skill growth, the business of being an artist, and the sustainability of artistic careers.

Workshops are free for all emerging artists. Workshops slots can be claimed by signing up on our website. Sign up soon - all slots are first come, first served basis, and space is limited.

Want a list of all of the workshops? Visit our website at www.nextfest.ca/workshopseries to learn more and sign up!

Workshop Presenting Sponsor:

Workshop Partners:

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+ f f a t S s r e e t n u l o V

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NEXTFEST STAFF Festival Director: Ellen Chorley Festival Producer: Maggie Barton Baird

Graphic Designer and Ad Sales: Steven Teeuwsen

Communications Manager and Artist Liaison: Reanna Pilkington

Associate Producer: Mel Bahniuk

Production Manager: Scott Peters

Marketing and Communications Mentor: Megan Dart

NEXTFEST CURATORS Dance Curators: Good Women Dance Collective (Rebecca Sadowski and Ainsley Hillyard) Theatre Curator: Ellen Chorley

DJ Curator: Kim Jev Music Curator: Olivia Street High School Curator: Jennifer Peebles

Film Curator: Katie Cutting

MENTORS High School Mentors: April Kilins, Bevin Dooley, Jen Peebles, and Megan Dart Dance Mentors: Rebecca Sadowski, Ainsley Hillyard, Gianna Vacirca, and Mike Kennard Virtual Mentors: Makram Ayache, April Banigan, Sydney Campbell, Taylor

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Chadwick, Ellen Chorley, Belinda Cornish, Katie Cutting, Megan Dart, Julian Faid, Darrin Hagen, Kristi Hansen, Ellie Heath, Jane MacFarlane, Harley Morison, Sydney Parcey, Jesse Northey, Vanessa Sabourin, Matt Skopyk, Olivia Street, Cayley Thomas, and Jay Whitehead

CONSULTANTS

MULTIMEDIA

Deaf and HOH Consultant: Connor Yuzwenko-Martin

Technicians: Alana Rice, Cameron Tkachuk, and Hanna Ferguson

Accessibility Consultants: Alexis Hillyard, Allison Neuman, and Kelsie Acton

Festival Image: Kelsey McMillian

BIPOC Consultants: Morẹ́ nikẹ́ Ọláòṣebìkan from Ribbon Rouge Foundation, Elsa Robinson, Cynthia Jimenez-Hicks, Lebogang Disele, and Kiana Woo

NIGHTLY HOSTS Sydney Campbell, Kelly Turner, Mac Brock, Gill Prusko, and Michael Johnson (Rapid Fire Theatre)

WORKSHOP FACILITATORS Kelsie Acton, Elena Belyea, Mackenzie Brown, Eva Cairns, David Cheoros, Ellen Chorley, Sarah Culkin, Ainsley Hillyard, Elise Jason, Ava Karvonen, Tori Morrsion, Chantal Perron, Mieko Ouchi, and Andrea Romaldi

NEXTFEST BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Bradley Moss, President

THEATRE NETWORK STAFF Artistic & Executive Director: Bradley Moss Operations Manager: Harley Morison Business Development Director: Jill Roszell Marketing & Publicity: Taylor Chadwick Bookkeeper: Shelley Martin Box Office/Front of House: Asia Bowman, Candice Stollery, Even Gilchrist, Gala Freeman-Peters, Iris Baguinon, Kate Blechinger, Liora Friedland, Mackenzie Reurink, Morgan Grau, Neon, and Vanessa Wilson

THANKS To our artists, curators, technical team and our family at Theatre Network for adapting and pivoting so quickly with us during this new adventure.

Rapid Fire Theatre

Andy Laskiwsky, Treasurer

Hunter Cardinal

Kevin Hendricks, Director

Jacquelyn Cardinal

Murray Utas, Director

Justin Shaw

Michael Kennard, Director

Skye Grinde Andrea Handal Rivera

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THANK YOU TO OUR 2020 SUPPORTERS!