Brit’s Picks June 30 – July 7
Flip, Flop, Fly Thurs. Bessborough Gardens
The Legendary Downchild Blues Band is a Canadian institution and this year it celebrates its 40th Anniversary. They’ve had an amazing history with the Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival playing the TD Mainstage at the Bessborough Gardens many times. I was speaking with Kevin Tobin, the artistsic director of the festival and he told me, “When it comes to the Downchild Blues Band, we have an open door policy. They can play here whenever they want!” Tickets are $55-$65
Prairie Hip Hop Sat. Bessborough Gardens/The Capitol
The Lytics are a super slick hip hop act out of Winnipeg. They credit some of their influences to De La Soul and the Fugees. They’re fun to groove to and their music has elements of 90’s Hip Hop and Soul. You have two chances to check them out and hear music from the latest album Hold On. First, they are opening for Big Boi in the Bessborough Gardens Saturday night. After that show, they slide on down to the Capitol for a show Saturday evening. Tickets are $65-$75 for the TD Mainstage and $15 at The Capitol.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yB0UsdhOC-k
Oh Canada! Friday Diefenbaker Park
Stock cars, flea markets and a whole host of entertainment awaits you at this year’s Canada Day festivities in Diefenbaker Park. Every year, with the help of the Optimist Club, cultural groups and entertainers, like Brody Siebert, band together for a full day of family friendly fun. It all kicks off with breakfast at 8a.m. and wraps with a huge fireworks display just after 10:30p.m. Admission is free and you can get all the information here.
Little Badger & the Fire Spirit is the tale of a young boy who braves danger to help his community. (Britainy Zapshalla)
Culture & Community Mon. – July 29 Various Parks
It’s become a summer family tradition here in Saskatoon. The fourth season of Theatre in the Park is back with a brand new production called ‘Little Badger & The Fire Spirit’. Adapted from the original story by Cree elder Maria Campbell this is the story of a young boy who has to brave many dangers to visit the fire spirit and bring fire back to his people. This show opens on Monday and tours to more than 25 community parks for evening performances and Sunday matinees. It’s absolutely free and everyone is welcome. Get the full schedule here.
A new age take on Shakespeare’s tragedy Julius Caesar opens Wednesday. (Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan)
New Twist on Classics Wed. – Aug. 21 Shakespeare Site
The Bard is back on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River for another season of performance. This year’s Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan performances include the comedic story of young love in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and a futuristic take on the tragedy Julius Caesar. This production featuring an all-female cast. There is also a mysterious ‘Roving Show’ that takes place outside the tent along the banks of the river. You start onsite and follow the actors where the story leads. Tickets run between $11-$36 depending on the show.
