2024 Vancouver International Children's Festival Brochure

VICF COVER 2024.qxp_VICF COVER 2024.qxp 2024-03-15 11:38 AM Page 1

Ignite your child ’s playful joy!

Samari (8) “I feel joy when I play my favourite sport!”

May 27 - June 2, 2024 on Granville Island

ChildrensFestival.ca

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Welcome to the 47th Annual Vancouver International Children’s Festival

Our Festival is a vibrant celebration of the arts, dedicated to captivating audiences of all ages with multi-disciplinary performances that engage, entertain and open us to the joy of artistic expression. We believe in the power of the arts to enhance and change lives, which is why we search and present the best work possible created specifically for children and youth plus all the adults who come with them.

In 2024, our stages will come alive with an array of stunning performances including two international shows, six national productions and five local shows, which proudly feature our commissioned works, One of a Kind and The Papa Penguin Play. Highlights include two works from Australia: the extraordinary circus show 360 ALLSTARS by Onyx Productions, fresh from Broadway, and Robot Song by Arena Theatre. In addition to our Australian focus, we have the pleasure of presenting artists from across Canada including the return of local sensation Missy D! I invite you join us for a feast of amazing shows and interactive visual arts activities that encourage you to ignite your playful joy.

Please come out and experience a magical day at the Festival!

Katharine Carol Artistic & Executive Director

A Message from the Mayor

On behalf of the residents of Vancouver and my colleagues on City Council, I want to extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to everyone attending the 2024 Vancouver International Children’s Festival.

The Vancouver International Children’s Festival began as a theatre festival for young audiences presenting international performances. Today, the Festival is a multi-disciplinary platform, presenting theatre, music, dance, circus, puppetry and storytelling, and over the years has been an inspiration to major cities throughout Canada and abroad. VICF’s mission is to inspire and motivate young minds with professional artistic experiences that transform a child’s understanding of the world around them and what is creatively possible. VICF aims to be a highly anticipated festival recognized internationally for showcasing a unique and diverse celebration of the arts, while also fostering a world where future generations build upon the passion for arts and performance that we share with them today.

I want to welcome all guests to enjoy the many performances planned throughout the week, and I hope the Vancouver International Children’s Festival continues to thrive for many years to come.

Sincerely, Mayor Ken Sim 3

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Ticket Prices Photo by Tilly Nelson

In-person Festival Tickets

All performances are ticketed and require one of the following tickets.

Tickets include 1 Show and Activity Village wristband.

Everyone Needs a Ticket!

1 Show Ticket*

excludes the shows listed below

• Child/Senior $13.50 • Adult $23

Everyone is required to purchase a ticket to attend any of the shows at the festival, with the exception of babes in arms.

Festival 4 Pack*

excludes Variety Show and the shows listed below

4 tickets to 1 performance • 4 Pack $62

Babes In Arms

Tree*

Babes in arms refers to babies under the age of 12 months, who will not require a seat, and will remain in the arms of their caregiver. They are welcome to attend select performances at no charge. Please refer to the show pages to see if babes in arms are welcome.

• Child (ages 0–2) $6 • Adult/Senior $23

Tree, a world in itself* • Child (Ages 4+) $13.50 • Adult/Senior $23

Pyjama Nights*

Age Policy

• All tickets $13.50

Variety Show*

Age ratings have been developed to ensure a positive experience for everyone. We suggest that children younger than the ages listed not attend as they may become frightened or disruptive. Please refer to the show pages for specific ratings.

• All tickets $25

* All ticket prices subject to service charges and GST. No refunds or exchanges.

Site Activities Only!

Activity Village

All show tickets include an Activity Village wristband. Our Activity Village is enclosed in a beautiful park with over a dozen hands-on arts activities - see details on page 27. You can pick up your wristband at the on-site Box Office or at the venue before your show.

Unable to come to a show but still want to take in the Festival? Activity Village wristbands are available for purchase on-site.

• $7 per day per person (includes GST & Service Charges) 4

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How to purchase tickets Visit our Website

Show tickets can be purchased in advance online through our website ChildrensFestival.ca. Show tickets are available to purchase on our website up until 2 hours before the show.

Photo by Tilly Nelson

Pick Your Show(s) & Buy Now:

Parking

Granville Island is readily accessible by public transit, car, ferry, bike or on foot. Parking is limited on Granville Island so consider an alternative method of transportation. Please visit ChildrensFestival.ca for off-site parking ideas and tips when planning your day.

Purchasing Tickets On Site

During the Festival: Visit our Box Office in the Activities area between The Nest and Waterfront Theatre on Granville Island.

Cash, Debit & Credit Cards accepted.

Tickets are sold at the Box Office until 2 hours before the show and then subject to availability at the venue door 30 minutes before the show. Shows often sell out so we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance.

Connect with us @KidsFest @Vicf @VanKidsFest

The Vancouver International Children’s Festival Society acknowledges that we create and work on the ancestral, traditional, stolen and unceded territories of the hən̓qə̓ min̓əm̓ speaking xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam) and sə̓lílwəta

(Tsleil-Watuth) people and the Sníchim speaking Sḵwx̱wú7mesh

(Squamish) people. We acknowledge the ongoing cultural genocides of Indigenous peoples by Canada, particularly the atrocities committed against children. We commit to work with the Indigenous Peoples of this land to raise the voices of Indigenous children through creativity and play.

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Workshops, Special Events and Programs

phone line that helps kids and adults find the right words to fight racism and oppression. Choosing from a menu, callers can listen to suggestions, advice, apology techniques or leave a message about their anti-racism experiences. Drop-in to this workshop that digs into compassion and empathy, anti-racism and anti-oppression with humour and heart. Bring your curiosity and share your experiences for building a more inclusive and equitable world. Ages 5 and up.

Squamish Ocean Canoe Family Cultural Sharing Tuesday, May 28 at 11:30am • Activity Village

In addition to paddling together, members of the Squamish Ocean Canoe Family are committed to sharing Skwxwú7mesh culture through traditional songs and dances.

youth for youth Program

The Kind Line

This program provides training, mentorship and performance opportunities for emerging artists. The artists work with Deborah Williams to develop their personal story and create One of a Kind (page 18), a new theatre piece which will be performed at the 2024 Festival.

Drop-in anytime on Friday or Saturday • Activity Village (page 27) Learn how to make your home, school or community more welcoming for all at The Kind Line. Artists Adrienne Wong and JD Derbyshire created an interactive 7

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Pyjama Nights Dress the kids (and yourself!) in their favourite jammies, and head down to Granville Island for the ultimate bedtime story with these special early evening shows. All tickets $13.50* childhood, filled with truths, cultural perspectives, challenges, laughs and adventures all accompanied by physical theatre, music and movement.

Fred Penner

Tuesday, May 28 6:30pm at the Revue Stage Sing along with one of Canada’s best-loved children’s singers and four-time Juno winner Fred Penner at this year’s Festival!

Jam Side up!

Thursday, May 30 6:30pm at Performance Works Flying bunnies, speeding French fries and identical twins?! This show has it all and then some! The Kif-Kif Sisters’ surprising blend of comedy and audience interaction is enough to make vegetables explode! Get ready to howl with laugher at The Kif-Kif Sisters’ out-of-this-word antics.

One of a Kind Tuesday, May 28 6:30pm at the Nest

* All ticket prices subject to service charges and GST.

One of a Kind is a series of stories performed by a talented, diverse group of extraordinary storytellers. Each performer shares a one-of-a-kind tale from their

Note: Our on-site activities are NOT open for the Evening Shows. Show your ticket anytime during the Festival and you’ll get an Activity Village wristband for that day.

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Evening Shows

Variety Show

Saturday, June 1 6:30pm Granville Island Stage

Opening Night!

Robot Song Monday, May 27 6:30pm at Performance Works

Nimihitowin!,

Xwechtaal Dennis Joseph

Join us for our Opening Night event!

The evening begins with an Indigenous Welcome Ceremony with Elder Statesman Xwechtaal Dennis Joseph of the Squamish Nation, an evening performance of Robot Song and complimentary refreshments afterwards.

360 ALLSTARS

Missy D

Watch Festival performers cut loose at our annual Variety Show! This year’s tour de force features daring stunts and high-energy feats from 360 ALLSTARS, a dance extravaganza from the dancers of Nimihitowin!, the zany antics of The Kif-Kif Sisters and captivating storytelling from One of a Kind. Plus, sing along with our host, local hip hop, rap and soul artist, Missy D! This fun-filled evening is always a highlight for kids and adults alike.

Robot Song

Robot Song follows the journey of a young girl on the Autism Spectrum learning to understand her unique way of relating to the world. Using cutting edge digital technology, animatronics and a beautiful original musical score this unique, funny and touching show celebrates differences in all its forms.

All ages • All tickets $25* * All ticket prices subject to service charges and GST. Note: Our on-site activities are NOT open for the Evening Shows. Show your ticket anytime during the Festival and you’ll get an Activity Village wristband for that day.

Child/Senior: $13.50* • Adult: $23* 9

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Accessibility

We strive towards creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected, represented, supported and valued to meaningfully participate.

Using the icons provided in this brochure, you will be able to find out more about venue and show accessibility. By providing this information, we aim to help you make informed choices, so that you can tailor your festival experience to match your unique preferences and needs.

Relaxed Performance

Relaxed Performance Sensory friendly - no intense lights, sounds or content

Extra Live (Always Relaxed)

Extra Live Every performance is relaxed Blind and low vision friendly

Deaf and hard of hearing friendly

Neurodiverse Assessed and adjusted by and for people on the spectrum.

Hearing-assistance devices available

Wheelchair accessible venue

Our dedicated Access Activator works closely with artists to gather important accessibility details about each show such as the show’s lighting, sound, sensory information, participation and content. Some shows also have a visual guide which provides very detailed information, including a visual story which breaks down everything that happens in the show with pictures. This information and other resources can help you decide if the show is right for your child and prepare them for the experience.

Please visit ChildrensFestival.ca for more information.

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Photo by Sylvie-Ann Paré

Tree

Motus (Québec) Theatre/Puppetry • Carousel Studio • 40 min • Ages 0–2 Share a special moment with your little one. Experience the magical world of Tree in this gentle and intimate show for the youngest of audiences. Tree is rare opportunity for your baby to experience live theatre created just for them! Settle into mama bird’s cozy nest while she warms her luminous clutch of eggs. Plants, insects, and animals visit, accompanied by soothing melodies and rhythmic music. As evening falls, you’ll rest under the rising moon, stars, and the shimmering Milky Way, gathering strength to spread your wings like a fledgling bird of light.

Co-presented by Boca del Lupo, the Micro Performance Series.

Tuesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 29 Friday, May 31

10:00am, 12:00pm 10:00am, 12:00pm 10:00am, 12:00pm

Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

10:00am 10:00am

Extra Live (Always Relaxed)

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Photo by Dess

La Case départ de Missy d: 1, 2, 3 on y va, on y va !

Missy D (British Columbia)

Music • Granville Island Stage • 45 min • All ages (Babes in arms welcome) Retour à la demande! Si vous ne la connaissez pas encore, eh bien apprenez à la connaître et retenez ce nom — Missy D. Elle rappe depuis l’âge de 11 ans en français et en anglais venant des 3 coins de l’Afrique (le Rwanda, la Côte d ‘Ivoire et le Zimbabwe). Missy D est une artiste hip-hop, rap et soul qui fait de sa musique une forme de thérapie pour exprimer tous ses sentiments, partager un message et se connecter avec son public. C’est une fusion des sons de son enfance allant des mélodies françaises, aux légendes du r&b, du rap, de la soul, du jazz, du rock et du hip hop. Missy D vous invite dans son univers plein d’émotions et en chantant YES MAMA pendant que Missy D célèbre cette diversité dans les instrumentaux, dans la musique et surtout dans notre monde. 123, on y va, on y va!

Wednesday, May 29 Thursday, May 30 Friday, May 31 Sunday, June 2

12:30pm (FR) 10:30am (FR), 12:30pm (FR) 10:30am (FR) 3:30 (BI)

FR en français | BI Bilingual - in French and English

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Photo by Matt Loncar

360 ALLSTArS Onyx Productions (Australia)

Circus • Granville Island Stage • 50 min • All ages In this high-energy urban circus extravaganza, a phenomenal team of artists pushes the boundaries of physicality to the absolute limit. Get ready for a heart-pounding fusion of BMX stunts, basketball wizardry, breakdancing brilliance, mesmerizing MC-ing, mind-bending acrobatics, and heart-pounding drumming that takes center stage. Featuring an all-star cast of world champions and record-holding athletes, 360 ALLSTARS delivers a spectacular blend of extraordinary artistry and vibrant street culture. As the live-looped soundtrack pulses through the air, you’ll witness the thrill of extreme sports like never before. Brace yourself for breathtaking feats that will send your adrenaline skyrocketing and leave you cheering for more, making this an experience you won’t want to miss!

Tuesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 29 Friday, May 31

10:30am, 12:30pm 10:30am 12:30pm

Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

11:00am, 1:00pm 11:00am, 1:30pm

We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.

Nous remercions le Conseil des arts du Canada de son soutien.

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Photo by Chris Randle

Nimihitowin!

Wild Mint Arts (Alberta)

Dance/Music • Revue Stage • 55 min • All ages (Babes in arms welcome) Powwow dance, hoop dance and Métis jigging are beautiful expressions of Indigenous Peoples’ rich history and culture. Translated from Cree to mean “to dance” and “to be in movement”, Nimihitowin! (Knee-me-toe-win) will mesmerize audiences with dramatic dancing, spectacular regalia and the subtle beauty of Cree-composed flute songs. Insightful commentary about each dance will also enhance the performance as kids get the chance to celebrate this rich, cultural treasure with the Cree, Blackfoot, Anishinaabe and Métis dancers of Nimihitowin! Created exclusively for young audiences by acclaimed Calgary-based Cree musician, contemporary dancer and choreographer Jessica McMann, this energetic performance offers an opportunity to experience the stunning vibrancy of Indigenous culture through dance.

The dancers in Wild Mint Arts are Cree, Anishinaabe, Blackfoot, and Métis. The all-Indigenous crew works closely with elders from Stoney and Blackfoot first nations.

Co-presented with Talking Stick Festival.

Tuesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 29

10:30am 10:30am

Thursday, May 30 Friday, May 31

12:30pm 10:30am, 12:30pm

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Photo by Darcy Van Dillen

robot Song Arena Theatre (Australia)

Theatre/Musical • Performance Works • 60 min • Ages 7 and up Based on a true story, Robot Song showcases the incredible power of creativity when combined with unconditional love. When eleven-year-old Juniper receives a letter from her entire class stating that she is ‘the most hated person in the school’ she’s completely devastated. After exhausting all other avenues her parents resort to the only thing they have left, a giant singing robot. Robot Song follows the journey of a young girl on the Autism Spectrum learning to understand her unique way of relating to the world. With the robot’s help, Juniper discovers that life doesn’t always turn out the way you plan, sometimes it’s much, much better. Using cutting edge digital technology, animatronics and a beautiful original musical score this unique, funny and touching show celebrates differences in all its forms.

The Robot Song 2024 Canadian tour supported by Creative Australia and Creative Victoria.

Monday, May 27 Tuesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 29

6:30pm 10:30am, 12:30pm 12:30pm

Friday, May 31 Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

12:30pm 11:00am, 2:00pm 1:00pm

We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.

Nous remercions le Conseil des arts du Canada de son soutien.

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360 ALLSTARS Coastal Wolf Pack Robot Song Otosan Fred Penner (RP)

12:30

Variety Show

Carousel Studio

Granville Island Stage

Performance Works

Revue Stage

Jam Side Up!

The Nest

Waterfront Theatre

6:30

Yassama

3:00

Program subject to change.

Missy D (BI)

Otosan

Papa Penguin 360 ALLSTARS

Robot Song

Yassama

One of A Kind Tree, a world (RP)

360 ALLSTARS Papa Penguin

Jam Side Up! (RP) Fred Penner (RP)

Tree (RP)

2:30 One of A Kind Yassama

Robot Song

Papa Penguin

1:30 2:00

360 ALLSTARS Fred Penner (RP)

Tree, a world (RP)

12:00

1:00

360 ALLSTARS Robot Song Papa Penguin

11:00

Otosan

Otosan (RP) Fred Penner (RP)

10:30

12:30

Tree (RP)

10:00

4:00

Yassama

360 ALLSTARS Papa Penguin Robot Song Otosan Nimihitowin!

Tree (RP)

Missy D (FR) Papa Penguin Jam Side Up! (BI) One of A Kind Nimihitowin!

Site Hours 10:30–5:00

Sunday

June 2

In-Person Shows

Site Hours 10:30–6:00

Saturday

June 1

Venues

Jam Side Up! (FR)

Missy D (FR) Papa Penguin Jam Side Up! (FR) One of A Kind Nimihitowin!

Missy D (FR) Papa Penguin Jam Side Up! (FR) Otosan Fred Penner (RP)

Tree (RP)

Site Hours 9:30–2:30

Friday

May 31

3:30

Missy D (FR) Coastal Wolf Pack Robot Song Otosan Fred Penner (RP)

Tree (RP)

360 ALLSTARS Coastal Wolf Pack Jam Side Up! (FR) One of A Kind Nimihitowin!

Tree (RP)

Site Hours 9:30–2:30

Journée FrancoFun

Thursday

May 30

Legend FR en français PJ Pyjama Night BI Bilingual RP Relaxed Performance

6:30

One of A Kind (PJ) Fred Penner (PJ) (RP)

Tree (RP)

12:00

Robot Song

360 ALLSTARS Coastal Wolf Pack Robot Song Otosan Nimihitowin!

10:30

2:30

Tree (RP)

Site Hours 9:30–2:30

Site Hours 9:30–2:30

In-Person Shows

Wednesday

May 29

Tuesday

May 28

10:00

May 27

Monday

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Photo by Moonrider Productions

One of a Kind

Vancouver International Children’s Festival Society and The Flame. Created and directed by Deborah Williams (British Columbia) Storytelling/Theatre • The Nest • 50 min • Ages 5 and up

One of a Kind returns to the Festival every year with new cast members and fresh stories!

Come see why everyone is talking about this exciting, evolving series.

One of a Kind is created around the true stories performed by the people who lived them; a talented, diverse group of extraordinary theatre artists. The storytellers share their one-ofa-kind childhood tales filled with truth, cultural perspective, family languages, challenge, laughter and adventure. Using physical theatre, puppetry, music, movement and more, they offer an extraordinary exploration of the universal expression of storytelling. Children will recognize themselves and be inspired to share their own stories.

Commissioned by the Vancouver International Children’s Festival.

Tuesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 29 Thursday, May 30

6:30pm 10:30am 12:30pm

Friday, May 31 Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

10:30am 3:00pm 12:00pm

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Photo by Dahlia Katz

yassama and the Beaded Calabash Lua Shayenne (Ontario)

Storytelling/Music/Dance • Revue Stage • 40 min • Ages 3 and up (Babes in arms welcome) Rooted in African oral tradition, Yassama and the Beaded Calabash is the story of a young girl who, with the help of the old Baobab tree, saves her village from drought and delivers a powerful lesson about the importance of respecting and honouring Mother Earth. Kids will love this playful and interactive show where the audience is encouraged to take part in the form of call-and-response, singing and clapping. Acclaimed artist Lua Shayenne weaves rhythmic language, vibrant dance, lively Malinke and Soussou songs, and live drumming into an engaging story everyone is sure to enjoy.

Friday, May 31 Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

2:30pm 3:00pm 12:30pm, 3:00pm

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Photo by Erin Palm

Otosan

Little Onion Puppet Co. (British Columbia) Theatre/Puppetry • The Nest • 45 min • Ages 4 and up When little Shizu hides in her Otosan’s suitcase and secretly travels to his most dangerous destination The North, her presence is a big surprise and an even bigger nuisance to her gruff, no-nonsense father. Facing snowy owls, white wolves and grizzly bears in the most remote of locations, Otosan and Shizu must learn to tackle challenges together, eventually learning how to communicate their love. Inspired by Co-creator Shizuka Kai’s real-life experience with her father, a wildlife videographer, Otosan is a beautifully told story that uses puppetry, real wildlife projections and an original score to take the audience on an immersive journey. World Premiere.

Created with the support of Deaf Consultants, Caroline Hébert and Ladan Sahraei, to include people who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

Tuesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 29 Thursday, May 30 Friday, May 31 Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

10:30am, 12:30pm 12:30pm 10:30am 12:30pm 10:30am (RP), 12:30pm 2:30pm Relaxed Performance June 1

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Photo by Epic Photography

Jam Side up!

The Kif-Kif Sisters (Québec)

Physical Comedy/Circus • Performance Works • 40 min • All ages (Babes in arms welcome) Flying bunnies, speeding French fries and identical twins?! This show has it all and then some! The Kif-Kif Sisters’ surprising blend of comedy and audience interaction is enough to make vegetables explode! Get ready to howl with laugher at The Kif-Kif Sisters’ out-of-thisworld antics. Twice the action and twice the fun, some things in life are just better in twos.

This charming, original show is theatre, puppetry, circus, magic and comedy all rolled into one! The Kif-Kif Sisters are masters at drawing their audience into their world of unusual and zany comedy. We guarantee, you’ll never know what’s coming next!

Wednesday, May 29 10:30am (FR) Thursday, May 30 10:30am (FR), 12:30pm (FR), 6:30pm Friday, May 31 10:30am (BI) Saturday, June 1 4:00pm Sunday, June 2 10:30am (RP) FR en français BI Bilingual - in French and English

Relaxed Performance June 2

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Photo by Moonrider Productions

Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolf Pack) Salish Songs and Stories

Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coast Salish communities: Musqueam, Squamish, Tsartlip, Nanaimo and more) Dance/Music • Waterfront Theatre • 40 min • All ages (Babes in arms welcome) Tsatsu Stalqayu, started with our Ta’ah’s dream to show the world who we are as Coast Salish People. Just as wolves travel in packs and work together to flourish in life, our group runs with one heart and one mind. From the eldest to the youngest, we encourage each other to stand strong in the face of adversity by consistently practicing our cultural ways of living. Teaching our children the songs, dances, and stories will keep our traditions alive for generations to come. We take pride in who we are and what we do. Our hope now is to continue representing the Coast Salish culture to the best of our ability, within the respected boundaries, so that all nations can enjoy the beauty we have to share. Come see us perform traditional Salish song and dance at this year’s Festival.

Co-presented with Talking Stick Festival.

Tuesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 29

10:30am, 12:30pm 10:30am, 12:30pm

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Image by Julie McLaughlin

The Papa Penguin Play Carousel Theatre for Young People (British Columbia)

Theatre/Musical • Waterfront Theatre • 50 min • Ages 3-8 (Babes in arms welcome) Everyone loves Peaches and Izzy and their daily performances at the Zoo! In fact, these two male penguins are the Zoo’s main attraction. Life’s peachy for the dynamic duo until other penguin couples start laying eggs and having chicks. Peaches and Izzy want to start a family too! With help from the Zoo Keeper, their dreams of parenting come to life. Join these two papas at their penguin chick’s first birthday at a party like no other. The Papa Penguin Play is a musical about celebrating family in all its colours and finding the performer in all of us.

Written by Dave Deveau and co-commissioned and co-produced by Carousel Theatre for Young People and the Vancouver International Children’s Festival in association with Zee Zee Theatre.

Thursday, May 30 Friday, May 31 Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

10:30am, 12:30pm 10:30am, 12:30pm 11:00am, 1:30pm 11:00am, 1:30pm

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Photo by Sylvie-Ann Paré

Tree, a world in itself Motus (Québec)

Theatre/Puppetry • Carousel Studio • 60 min • Ages 4 and up for Autistic Children In this gentle and intimate show, settle into mama bird’s cozy nest while she warms her luminous clutch of eggs. Plants, insects, and animals visit, accompanied by soothing melodies and rhythmic music. As evening falls, you’ll rest under the rising moon, stars, and the shimmering Milky Way, gathering strength to spread your wings like a fledgling bird of light.

Tree, a world in itself, is a multi-sensory, interactive universe enveloped in soft light, music, and silence, where five characters continually adapt to meet the needs of their audience.

It was created for Autistic children and further adapted to accommodate children with intellectual disabilities and/or reduced mobility.

In an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, the performance offers a ratio of one performing artist per child to facilitate numerous personalized interactions with audience members and thus can only accommodate a very small number of spectators at a time. Maximum one child and two adults per group.

Co-presented by Boca del Lupo, the Micro Performance Series.

Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

12:00pm 12:00pm Extra Live (Always Relaxed)

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Fred Penner Fred Penner (Manitoba)

Music • Revue Stage • 50 min • All ages (Babes in arms welcome) Sing along with one of Canada’s best-loved children’s singers and four-time Juno winner Fred Penner at this year’s Festival! Fred has been charming audiences for over 40 years with catchy songs that speak to the wonder of childhood, such as “The Cat Came Back” and “What a Day.” Fred’s award-winning music and meaningful lyrics have created a lasting impact that crosses generations. His warmth and enthusiasm give him an instant emotional connection with fans both young and old. Don’t miss introducing your children to this Canadian music icon.

Tuesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 29 Thursday, May 30 Saturday, June 1 Sunday, June 2

12:30pm, 6:30pm 12:30pm 10:30am 10:30am, 1:00pm 10:30am

Extra Live (Always Relaxed)

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Serving Canada’s Multicultural Communities

z kH

mHz AM FM

AMM F

English: am1470.com/english Chinese: am1470.com | fm961.com

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Activity Village

Spend the day being creatively playful in our Activity Village.

Your show ticket includes access to the Activity Village!

If you are unable to come to a show, Activity Village wristbands are available for purchase on-site for $7 per person (includes GST and Service Charges).

All Ages

Tuesday-Friday: 9:30am-2:30pm Saturday: 10:30–6pm Sunday: 10:30–5pm

Face Painting Get your face painted as a lion, a tiger or a superhero, oh my! A Kids’ Fest tradition for over 46 years!

Inner Garden Need a space to rest? The Inner Garden is a relaxing, comfortable space for you and your kids to rejuvenate.

African Pavilion Step into African arts, cultures, stories, games and languages. Listen to each other’s beat, feel our collective rhythm and connect to our shared humanity.

Indigenous Arts - Installation “Honouring Women” This piece is to honour Mother Earth and the women in our lives that still walk in this world and the ones that have passed on. By Christine Mackenzie.

Magical Mystery Maze Burn some energy and play games in our enchanting outdoor maze.

Vancouver Traingang All aboard! The Vancouver’s NTRAK Modular Railroad Club is excited to share their working modular trains with you. Presented by CN. Port of Vancouver Activity Zone Visit Salty at the Port of Vancouver tent to learn about how the port brings toys, shoes, games and snacks to your home and school!

King’s Hawaiian Tent We’re on a Roll, Canada! Stop by for a free sample of soft and fluffy King’s Hawaiian rolls. Test your luck on our spin wheel for a chance to win irresistible prizes and merch!

Story Crafts Embark on a magical storytelling adventure! Dive into the realm of imagination as you craft your own story characters. Presented by Gabby’s Classroom.

Sema:th Xo:tsa puppets Interact with larger-than-life illuminated puppets from Luminous Waters. Delight in the shenanigans of Mike the Mink, Harry the Heron, and Barb the Sturgeon.

Ages 0–4

Twist & Toddle! Play and create in this tent jam-packed with fun for the under 4 set.

Ages 3 and up

Circus Arts Learn the basics of juggling, Diablo, rhythm sticks and stilt walking from young circus pros.

Ages 4 and up

Indigenous Arts Come learn how to share your story using pictographs. Engage in storytelling through an Indigenous lens in this hands-on workshop and create your own story art pieces to take home.

Ages 5 and up

Hai Origami Make a boat, bird, butterfly, heart, fish or dino while learning the intricate art of Japanese paper folding.

LunarFest Explore the ways we are Born to be Free through crafts, culture, and music with LunarFest and Jade Music Fest!

Scavenger Hunt Follow the clues to swim, flutter, glide and jump from one Indigenous animal sculpture to another in this fun scavenger adventure. Presented by FortisBC. The Kind Line Learn how to make your home, school or community more welcoming for all. Artists created an interactive phone line that helps kids and adults find the right words to fight racism and oppression. Fri and Sat only.

Ages 7 and up

Canoe Kids! Come try canoeing, kayaking, or dragon boating with the False Creek Racing Canoe Club! Hours: Sat and Sun 12-4pm.

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R URE YOU VENT SUMMER AD AWAITS Start your summer off right by exploring VancouverMom.ca, your ultimate guide to the most exciting camps in Metro Vancouver.

Whether your kids are into arts, design, coding, or something else entirely, we've got you covered with our top picks.

Featuring: -Arts Umbrella -Emily Carr University Art + Design -Code Ninjas and many more!

Proud sponsor of the 2024 Vancouver International Children’s Festival

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Vancouver International Children’s Festival Community Programs Help us enrich the lives of children and ensure the Festival remains affordable for everyone through our community programs:

Hospital Outreach Program

Each year we are proud to bring Festival highlights to children in treatment or care at B.C. Children’s Hospital, Canuck Place and Sunny Hill Health Centre through our Hospital Outreach Program.

Children unable to leave their facilities can share in the Festival spirit with their families and caregivers and benefit from the healing power of music and laughter.

Good Neighbours

For too many families, a day at the Children’s Festival is just not possible. Become a “Good Neighbour” and share the magic of the Festival with children and parents who otherwise would not be able to attend!

• A suggested donation of $65 will allow a family of four to play all day! However, donations of any amount are welcome!

Adopt a Class

This program provides a day filled with learning, laughter and inspiration for elementary school children attending enhanced support schools across Metro Vancouver. Thanks to our generous business and foundation donors, more than 1,000 children will have a memorable day at the Children’s Festival through Adopt a Class in 2024.

We are grateful to our generous donors for their support of this valuable initiative.

Make your tax-deductible donation Online ChildrensFestival.ca | Call 604 708 5655 Email development@ChildrensFestival.ca The Vancouver International Children’s Festival is a not-for-profit charitable society, registration number 11883 3532 RR0001.

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Need Help?

We’re Here for You.

WestCoastFamilies.com

Proud to support Arts and Culture in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland Vancouver's freshest online arts magazine.

createastir.ca

Your digital marketing experts

Proud media sponsor of Vancouver International Children’s Festival

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Thank you

to our donors & supporters

Pots of Gold

Amacon Foundation Chris Spencer Foundation Diamond Foundation John Hardie Mitchell Family Foundation Lion’s Mane Fund Mirhady Family Fund, held at Vancouver Foundation The Estate of John Robert (JR) Seifred The Estate of Lynne Harrison The McLean Foundation Vancouver Foundation Unicorns

Andrew Mahon Foundation CanadaHelps (From CauseFund Vancouver Fund by Unite for Change) Connor, Clark & Lunn Foundation Coquitlam Foundation Lohn Foundation McCarthy Tetrault Foundation Shana Alexander Teresa Sutherland TF Event Company The Christopher Foundation

The Lutsky Family Foundation Vancouver Kidsbooks Walmart

Butterflies

Katharine Carol

Dragonflies

Cameron Wilson Eleonore Shafter Elizabeth Bowen Gerald Murenbeeld Jamie Fong Jason Dubois Jonathan Ryder Kathleen Piovesan Kevin Campbell Kevin Deschamps Ling Mei Tang Mee Young Aird Minna Schendlinger Natasha Jeshani Natasha Wallace Paul Dumontet Paul Stewart Pradeep Nair Rebecca Aston Robin de Pelham Rui Zhu Sally & Wilfrid Mennell Tom Stulberg Violet Tam Fireflies

Christine Brittain Coreen Philley in honored Patrick and Patricia Philley

Danya Rogen Edith Davidson Elaine Yuen Eric Wong Jacqueline Wainwright Jeffrey Nairn Jessica Land Kimberly Balfour Lauren Kristjanson Louise DeGagné Mary Hein Olivia Zeng Rachel Richardson Samad Raza Scott Wood Stewart McGillivray Temple of Christ International School Limited

LadyBugs In Kind

2 Guys With Knives Alive Health Centre Ltd Bacaro Barnside Brewing Company Basil Box BC Lions Football Club Bin 4 Burger Lounge Boorman Archery Browns Socialhouse Butchart Gardens Central City Fun Park Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites Craigdarroch Castle Dageraad Brewing Daniadown Home

Dilly Dally Kids Store False Creek Ferries Fiorino Go Wireless Homer Street Cafe and Bar Il Terrazzo Jaana Ashley organic skin care Jan & Jul Jamjar Canteen University Blvd Kindred Cultures Lee’s Donuts Lemonade Gluten Free Bakery Little Kitchen Academy MAKE Vancouver MarikArts Massy Books Maxine’s Cafe & Bar Memoir Studio Co Muffin Granny One Thing Message Lockets Open Door Yoga Pandora’s Locks Presentation House Theatre Rain City Games Rain or Shine Ice Cream Ricoh Sopra Sotto Pizzeria Studio 73 Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort

Superflux Beer Company The Running Room Tableau Bar and Bistro Terra Breads Tofino Distillery Toptable Group Vancouver Recital Society Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Vancouver Umbrella Inc Vancouver Whitecaps Football Club Victoria Bug Zoo White Spot Wowscapes Windfall Cider

Board of Directors

Christina (Ling Mei) Tang, Chair Eric Wong, Vice Chair Kevin Campbell, Treasurer Stewart McGillivray, Secretary Louise DeGagné Cameron Wilson Olivia Zeng Natasha Jeshani Kieran Davey Jason Dubois Samad Raza Grace Starke

A huge shout out to our fantastic crew, and many thanks to our awesome volunteers!

Photo by Tilly Nelson

Artistic & Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Katharine Carol Development Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marika Kovalcikova Communications & Marketing Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joanne Da Silva Operations Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leanne Zacharias Audience Services Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kelly Creelman Production Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David Kerr (DK) Technical Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jessica Han Site Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lauren Palidwor Volunteer Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kirith Bains Access Activator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anika Vervecken Associate Producer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larissa Lau School & Information Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Allyson Mah Marketing Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marjolyn Dimapilis Bookkeeper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ewa Borkowska IT Consultant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wayne Stewart

Photo by Tilly Nelson

Staff Credits

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THANK yOu

to our sponsors & supporters!

FESTIVAL PArTNErS

COMMuNITy PArTNErS

MEdIA SPONSOrS

GOVErNMENT FuNdErS

We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.

Nous remercions le Conseil des arts du Canada de son soutien.

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