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SURREY EVENTS: Tabla master Yogesh Samsi in concert, plus festivals, magic & more

A guide to Surrey-area events, entertainment and attractions
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Tabla player Yogesh Samsi is in Surrey for a pair of events, including a Friday concert (Sept. 15) at city hall’s Centre Stage theatre presented by Surrey Civic Theatres. See listing under Concerts. (Contributed photo)

THEATRE/STAGE

“Menopause the Musical: Cruising Through the Change” musical comedy staged at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre on Friday, Sept. 15. Tickets from $60 on bellperformingartscentre.com or call 604-507-6355.

“The Birds and the Bees”: Comedy theatre show presented by Arts Club Theatre Company at Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage from Oct. 11-21 in partnership with Surrey Civic Theatres. “A laugh-out-loud comedy with brains and a huge, honeyed heart.” Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

FESTIVALS

Filipino Fest at the Museum of Surrey on Saturday, Sept. 23 from 1 to 4 p.m., 17710 56A Ave. Free admission. “Enjoy live performances, dance, music, an ocean-inspired expressive arts with Filipino-Canadian artist Paulina Constancia, Tagalog and English storytelling and more.” 604-592-6956.

Harvest Fair at Historic Stewart Farm (13723 Crescent Rd.) on Saturday, Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. “Our annual event is back with its usual charm. Co-hosted with our neighbors Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House. Expect demonstrations, harvest-themed crafts, and a vendor market featuring local makers and organizations.” Info: 604-591-4627.

CONCERTS

In Conversation with Pandit Yogesh Samsi event Thursday, Sept. 14, 8 p.m. at Surrey Arts Centre program room. A Surrey Civic Theatres presentation in partnership with the Indian Classical Music Society of Vancouver. “Learn valuable tips and advice from Maestro Pandit Yogesh Samsi about the essential elements of a tabla solo.” Samsi to perform “Moving in Time” concert Friday, Sept. 15 at Surrey Centre Stage theatre (city hall), with Hardeep Chana (harmonium). Info: Tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

Kaka: Singer is live in concert Sept 16. at Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey. “Famously known for superhit songs like Temporary Pyar, Rabb di Likhat, Kale Je Libaas and many more, with a huge following on platforms like YouTube, Instagram.” Tickets/info on bellperformingartscentre.com, call 604-507-6355.

ABBA Revisited tribute band performs at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre on Sept. 17, presented by VaughnCo Entertainment. Tickets $60 on bellperformingartscentre.com or call 604-507-6355.

MAGIC

“Sin City Illusions: Magic and Mystery” show featuring Murray Hatfield and Paul Romhany, Sept. 23 at Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey. “Join us for an incredible evening of magic and illusions that is fun for all ages. We’re featuring two of Canada’s very best magicians.” Tickets on bellperformingartscentre.com or call 604-507-6355.

CIRCUS

American Crown Circus to set up at Guildford Town Centre from Sept. 14-18 as part of B.C. tour, with seven afternoon and evening “Circo Osorio” shows, 10355 152 St. Info/tickets: americancrowncircus.com.

EXHIBITIONS

“Dinosaurs Around the World” features life-size animatronic dinos at Guildford Town Centre from Sept. 12 to Oct. 9, in partnership with Imagine Exhibitions. Free admission during mall hours. Info: guildfordtowncentre.com.

FILM

International South Asian Film Festival (iSAFF) opening gala Friday, Sept. 29 at Surrey City Hall’s Centre Stage, 13450 104 Ave. “Enjoy a sneak peek of the films being presented at the festival, special performances and an opportunity to socialize all our guests with food & drinks. Dress to Impress: Black Tie, Indian or Fusion.” Festival runs from Sept. 28 to Oct. 1. Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

SALES

City of Surrey’s online tree sales: Final sale of the year will open Sept. 27 and close on Oct. 11, with a tree pickup day of Oct. 22. All trees are $20 (includes taxes). Purchases are made online and later picked up from the Surrey Operations Centre (6651 148 St.). Each sale has up to 1,000 trees available for purchase, while supplies last. “Varieties may include maples, dogwoods, magnolias and assorted fruit trees which all grow well in Surrey.” Info: surrey.ca/treesale.

COMMUNITY

Get Gathering: “Take part in free family-friendly activities celebrating the harvest season at Darts Hill Garden Park,” Sept. 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1633 170 St. Info: 604-501-5100, partnersinparks@surrey.ca. Darts Hill Garden Park is managed in partnership with City of Surrey and Darts Hill Conservancy Trust Society.

Textile Dye Garden Open House at Museum of Surrey on Sept. 16, 1 to 4 p.m. “Learn about local textiles and dye plants.” Activities include spinning and weaving demonstrations, botanical printing for visitors to try. At 17710 56a Ave. Free admission. Info: 604-592-6956.

FARM MARKETS

Surrey Urban Farmers Market operates every Saturday in summer at Royal Kwantlen Park, corner of 104 Avenue and Old Yale Road, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., until October. Info: surreymarket.org, facebook.com/surreymarket.

MUSEUMS

Museum of Surrey: At 17710 56A Ave., Cloverdale. Info: Surrey.ca/museum, 604-592-6956. “Giants, Dragons & Unicorns: The World of Mystic Creatures,” a traveling exhibit from the American Museum of Natural History, to Sept. 17.

ARTS

Surrey Muse: Interdisciplinary art and literature presentation group meets on fourth Friday of each month except December (5:30-8:30 p.m.). Gatherings feature an author, a poet and an artist/performer at varying levels of artistic development, followed by an Open Mic session. Virtual gatherings continue for now. Info: surreymuse.wordpress.com, facebook.com/surreymuse.

GALLERIES

Surrey Art Gallery: Multiple galleries at Bear Creek Park, 88 Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery. “Swapnaa Tamhane: No Surface is Neutral,” Sept. 23 to Nov. 26; “Kampala to Canada,” to Jan. 28; “all roses sleep (inviolate light)” video, to Dec. 4.

Fall Exhibits Opening and Artist Talk with Swapnaa Tamhane at Surrey Art Gallery on Saturday, Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m., at Bear Creek Park, 88 Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery.

Newton Cultural Centre features works by local artists at 13530 72 Ave., at venue of the Arts Council of Surrey. For calendar visit artscouncilofsurrey.ca, or call 604-594-2700.

Thursday Artist Talks: Events hosted by Surrey Art Gallery Association (SAGA) on the first Thursday of every month, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info: 604-501-5566, Arts.surrey.ca. On Facebook.surreyartgalleryassociation. Oct. 5: Crystal Noir, “Objectivism of My Origin Story.”; Nov. 2: Francisco Berlang, “Material Miracle of Craft”; Dec. 7: Lyn Verra-Lay, “Green Art Practices.”

COMEDY

Alaa Abu Diab: Arabic stand-up comedian to bring comedy show “Mish Abyad” (“Non-White”) to Surrey City Hall’s Centre Stage, 13450 104 Ave., on Sunday, Oct. 8. Show performed entirely in Arabic. Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

Yuk Yuk’s comedy club at Elements Casino Surrey, with shows Friday/Saturday at 17755 60 Ave., Cloverdale. For calendar and tickets, visit yukyuks.com/surrey or call 1-800-899-9136, ext. 0.

BARS/NIGHTLIFE

Donegal’s Irish House: Live music and more at 12054 96th Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-584-2112, donegals.pub.

Whalley Legion’s Vimy Lounge: Live music Friday-Sunday and Tuesday karaoke at #102-10626 City Parkway, Surrey. Info: (604) 582-0697, whalleylegion.org.

Dublin Crossing: Live music on stage at 18789 Fraser Hwy. 604-575-5470, online at Dublincrossing.com.

Mojitos: Latin music and more at The Turf Hotel, by bands and DJs, 12411 King George Blvd. Info: 778-223-6936, facebook.com/mojitosurrey.

Taphouse Guildford: Music/sports bar, 15330 102A Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-583-8828, Thetaphouse.ca. DJ Paul the Wall (Fri./Sat.).

Brewster’s Pub: Live music Saturday nights at 7380 King George Blvd. No cover. Info: brewsterspub.ca, facebook.com/BrewstersPub.

MOVIES

Landmark Cinemas 12 Guildford: 15051 101 Ave. 604-581-1716, Info: Landmarkcinemas.com.

Strawberry Hill Cineplex: 12161 72 Ave., Surrey. 604-501-9400, cineplex.com.

FLEA MARKET

The Cloverdale Market: “Your Weekly Treasure Hunt” in two buildings with 200 tables and 100+ outdoor spots, open every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, off 176 St. (Hwy 15) and 62 Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-837-1676, Cloverdalemarket.ca.

FUNDRAISERS

Hospice Hula hosted by Peace Arch Hospice Society Sept. 16 at Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club, 18150 8 Ave. “A night filled with dancing, drinks, dinner and aloha spirit,” with Polynesian dance performances, live DJ.” Tickets $100, 604-531-7484, peacearchhospice.org.

Scarecrow Stroll for Charity hosted by Art’s Nursery from Sept. 23 to Oct. 31. “A fun, family-friendly community event in support of local charity, with 60-plus creative and crazy scarecrows sponsored by local companies.” Info: artsnursery.com/page/scarecrow-stroll. At 8940 192 St., Surrey, 604-882-1201.

AWARDS

Surrey Environment and Business Awards and Hydrogen Forum with guest speakers including Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low-Carbon Innovation and others, lunch Friday, Sept. 29 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel (15269 104 Avenue, Surrey). Info: businessinsurrey.com or call 604-634-0344.

2023 Surrey Business Excellence Awards: Winners will be announced at awards gala on Thursday, Nov. 9 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel. Info online at businessinsurrey.com or call 604-634-0344.

BUSINESS

State of Newton: 5th annual business address/event planned for Thursday, Sept. 14, noon, at Bombay Banquet Hall. “The State of Newton is an opportunity for the business community to engage in a dialogue that showcases the upcoming investment opportunities for Newton. The presentation outlines the Newton BIA’s proposals and policy directions for the upcoming year, as well as a detail of the achievements from the last few years.” Info: newtonbia.com.

Networking @ Night at Biomune Integrative Wellness hosted by Surrey Board of Trade, on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 5:30 p.m. start, 19567 64 Ave. “Join us for a fun night of networking at one of Surrey’s innovative and holistic wellness centres. Enjoy appetizers and beverages while creating new connections with fellow business community members.” Free admission. Register: businessinsurrey.com.

Making Surrey a Prominent Film Destination: Surrey Board of Trade and the International South Asian Film Festival Canada explore Surrey’s current film assets “and how we can leverage existing assets and create new assets to create greater opportunities to provide input into a renewed Surrey Economic and Jobs Plan.” Panelists include James Monk, Film Manager, City of Surrey, and Jonathan Do, Vice-President, Commercial Financial Services, RBC, Thursday, Sept. 28, 9 a.m. start at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel. Register: businessinsurrey.com.s

LIBRARIES

Authors Among Us: Surrey Libraries hosts local authors for online Q & A sessions. For a detailed calendar of events/authors, visit surreylibraries.ca/events.

Climate Solutions 101: “Join educators from RegenerateBC to learn about what the science really says: that we have the needed solutions to slow global warming and employing them won’t send us back into the dark ages.” At Surrey Libraries’ City Centre branch Sept. 20, 27 & Oct. 4, 11, 18, 6-7:30 p.m. Register by calling 604-598-7426.

Genealogy Orientation at Cloverdale public library on Oct. 14, 10:30-11:30 a.m. “Learn to use one of the largest collections of family history materials in western Canada. This orientation to our department will introduce you to our online resources, books, journals, and microfilm records to assist you with your family history research. Free. Registration required. Email familyhistory@surrey.ca or call 604-598-7327.

Get Started with Organizing Your Family History event Saturday, Sept. 23, 10:30 a.m. to noon at Cloverdale public library. “Join us for this presentation and discussion on getting organized from the get-go. We’ll talk about how to sort through everything family history – photos, documents, items – and then start good research habits with your new system in place.” Free. Registration required. Email familyhistory@surrey.ca or call 604-598-7327 to register.

TALKS

TALK’s Philosophers’ Corner: ‘Truth and Reconciliation from two perspectives’, Oct. 12, 11:30 am, Crescent Gardens, 1222 King Geo. Blvd. Sponsored by Third Age Learning at Kwantlen. All ages welcome, membership not required Engage in a lively discussion over lunch. Cost: $18 for soup, entree, coffee/tea and dessert. Pre-order required: jdiston@telus.net.

CHARITY

Ignite a Dream: Annual fundraising event supporting students who have overcome adversity returns to KPU Tech in Cloverdale on Sept. 23. A cocktail social presented by the Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society. Wine tastings, local craft beer, food, music and a silent auction, 7 to 10 p.m. at 5500 180 St., Surrey. Tickets are $60 each or 10 for $500. Tickets and info: surreyfirefighters.com/ignite.

WORKSHOPS

The Network to Eliminate Violence in Relationships (NEVR) is offering free 3-hour online workshops every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am-12pm, 1pm-4pm. “The goal of the workshop is to learn to identify different types of abuse, support survivors of abuse and learn how to find additional supports and resources for survivors of abuse.” Email nevr@kpu to register for a free VIP workshop. Info: 604-599-2267.

KIDS/YOUTH

MYzone and MYgame After School Drop-in Programs run from October to June at seven locations across Surrey. “These fun programs provide children ages 8-12 the opportunity to explore a variety of activities during critical after-school hours in a safe and fully supervised environment.” MYzone and MYgame are included with the purchase of a MY Fun Pass or annual children’s pass, via City of Surrey. To register for MYzone and MYgame without the purchase of a MY Fun Pass, a one-time fee of $27.75 per child and $16.75 per child, applies respectively. Info: surrey.ca/activities-parks-recreation/recreation-programs/children-age-6-to-12/mygame-after-school-drop-in-program.

WALKS/RUNS

Terry Fox Run eventson Sunday Sept. 17 at locations across Canada including Fleetwood, South Surrey, Cloverdale, Fraser Heights, Newton and SFU Surrey, in support of Terry Fox Foundation. Info: (888) 836-9786, terryfox.org/terry-fox-run.

Surrey Trekkers Volksport Club: “A friendly walking club where everyone is welcome. We have a proud heritage as an associate of International Volkssporting with regularly scheduled walks throughout the Lower Mainland.” Walks are on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, most statutory holidays. Info: surreytrekkers.com.

Surrey Walks Together: City hall initiative encourages residents to “reconnect with others while walking to improve both mental and physical health.” Meeting locations are posted to Surrey Walks website (surrey.ca/parks-recreation/surrey-walks) along with other walking resources including trail maps, information on self-guided walks, walking groups, charity walks and more.

SENIORS

National Seniors Day Block Party at Chartwell Imperial Palace residence Sunday, Oct. 1 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. featuring live music, barbecue, games and prizes, 13853 102 Ave., North Surrey. Info: chartwell.com.

Senior’s bingo every Saturday from 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre in Whalley. Cards are 25 cents each. Telephone registration is required: 604-598-5898.

Surrey Singles Over Sixty: “We are a group that meet for dinners, card games, bowling, dancing, picnics etc. We are based in the North Surrey/North Delta area. New members (fully vaccinated) are welcome.” Call Georgie at 604-585-7304 or Bob at 778-545-5350.

TALK (Third Age Learning at Kwantlen): Program promises “creative and stimulating educational activities” for the 50-plus age group in Surrey and surrounding cities, with a mix of in-person and online events. TALK courses are “ideal for retirees who want to continue learning.” Fees range from $15 to $30, plus $10 annual membership fee. Info: kpu.ca/talk, 604-599-3077.

Seniors Centre Without Walls: Join various presenters for telephone-based exercises, literature or coffee clubs, learning mindfulness or estate planning. View details for information about the Seniors’ Centre Without Walls initiative by Seniors Come Share Society and register by calling 604-531-9400 ext. 205 or scww@comeshare.ca.

ATTRACTIONS

Surreys Heritage Rail Adventure: New one-hour adventure, ‘ride everything’ experience starts at Cloverdale Station. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to be able to enjoy all the rides. The adventure is accessible. Parking is available at the station, at 17630 / Highway 10. Info: fvhrs.org.

Bear Creek Park Train and MiniGolf: Mini train rides through the forest at Surrey’s largest park, 13750 88 Ave. For hours and rates, call 604-501-1232 or visit bctrains.com.

SPORTS

Surrey Knights: Junior B hockey games at North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex, 10950 126A St., in PJHL league action. Home games Thursdays, 7 p.m. Schedule: surreyknights.ca.

Surrey Eagles: Junior A hockey games at South Surrey Arena. For schedule and tickets, visit surreyeagles.ca or call 604-531-GOAL (4625).

HEALTH

Surrey No Longer Alone Nar-Anon Family Group (for people affected by someone else’s drug use) in-person meetings on Monday evenings, from 7-8 p.m. at Bethany-Newton United Church, 14853 60 Ave., Surrey. Entrance at north side of the church.

Recovery Canada: “We are a free, in-person, self-help support group for people experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. In-person meeting Tuesdays 1:30-3pm at St. Cuthbert Anglican Church, 11601 82 Ave, Delta BC. For more info contact Anita at anitaendorse@gmail.com or 604-788-4633. The virtual meeting will continue Thursdays 7-8:30 pm. Contact Gilles at gilber005@yahoo.ca for more info, or visit RecoveryCanada.ca.

Surrey Prostate Cancer Support Group meetings on last Saturday of month at Valley View Memorial Gardens 14644 72 Ave., Surrey (no meetings July and December). “Everyone is invited who are interested in knowing more about prostate cancer. Coffee & cookies provided. Call 604 594-5257.”

NATURE

Nature Work Parties: “Help care for Surrey parks by removing invasive plant species, cleaning up litter, and enhancing habitat within the park. Remove invasive plant species, clean up litter, and enhance habitat within the park. Tools and training are provided. Bring your family and friends; all ages are welcome.” For info and dates, visit surrey.ca/news-events/events/nature-work-parties.

EDUCATION

READ Surrey/White Rock Society’s Partners Program offers free, one-to-one tutoring for adults who want reading, writing or math support. “If you or someone you know needs literacy help, call Shanti at 778-242-7323 or email readswrs@gmail.com.” Info at readsurreywhiterock.com.

GROUPS

Surrey Air Cadets: 278 Cormorant RCACS, launched in 2017, welcomes new members aged 12-18. “We parade (train) on Tuesday Evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. from September to June of each year,” at Princess Margaret Secondary School, 12870 72 Ave, Surrey. Info: surreycadets.ca, 778-832-0278.

CALLS

Peace Arch Chorus: A capella group rehearses at Newton Cultural Centre under direction of Elvera Collier and assistant director Bev Feick. “Auditioned members are provided with excellent musical education and vocal coaching.” Chorus welcomes women to join. Info: peacearchchorus.ca.

Aequitas Singers: ”Located in Surrey, Aequitas Singers is an adult-only, non-auditioned choir that sings to bring hope, to raise awareness of social justice issues, and to have fun.” New singers can attend rehearsals Tuesdays at 7 p.m.; for details, email aequitassingerschoir@gmail.com. Info: aequitassingers.ca.

Soundscape A Capella Chorus: A mixed-voice, auditioned community chorus for adults. Rehearsals Tuesday evenings at Fraser Heights Secondary, Surrey. Info: soundscapesings.ca/auditions.

Handel Society Choir invites new members. Rehearsals are Tuesdays 7.30 p.m. at Cloverdale Canadian Reformed Church, on 174 Street and 60 Avenue. Soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices wanted.” Phone 604 202 7801 for information.

Westcoast Harmony Chorus: Group rehearses in Surrey at Parkland Community Church (9574 160th St.) on Wednesday evenings, 7 p.m. “A group of women and people of marginalized genders who love to sing and are personally committed to excellence and lasting friendships.” New members sought. Visit westcoastsings.com for info.

South Fraser Community Band welcomes new members, particularly needing brass/horns. Rehearsals Thursdays 7:30-9:30 p.m., September to June, at Earl Marriott Secondary, 15751 16 Ave. Email Membership@sfcb.ca, visit sfcb.ca.

VOLUNTEERS

Bell Performing Arts Centre is looking for new volunteers. “Our volunteers gain experience in box office sales, ushering, concession sales, working with the public, and more. Get a backstage view of the arts in your community. Learn about teamwork, and experience the joy of giving something back to your community. Volunteers of various ages and all cultural backgrounds welcome.” For info call 604-507-6355. Application form on bellperformingartscentre.com.

Volunteer Cancer Drivers organization needs drivers in Surrey and other cities. Anyone wishing to become a volunteer driver can find more information at volunteercancerdrivers.ca.

Community Thrift Store: “Can you spare 4 hours a day to volunteer at Newton’s Community Thrift Store, a joint project of Surrey Hospice Society and Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society?” At 7138 King George Blvd. Call Donna at 604-599-9930 or visit shscommunitythriftstore.com/volunteer to learn more.

Surrey Art Gallery docent program seeks volunteers to lead weekday school group tours of contemporary art exhibitions. Visit “Volunteering at the Gallery” page on surrey.ca/artgallery or contact Chris Dawson-Murphy, Volunteer Coordinator, artsvolunteer@surrey.ca, 604-501-5198.

READ Surrey/White Rock Society is recruiting volunteer adult literacy tutors for their fall training. Info: readsurreywhiterock.com.

Fraser Health Crisis Line is marking 50 years of operation this year; that’s 50 years of 24/7 service delivered by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, contact the Fraser Health Crisis Line: options.bc.ca/volunteer-at-options.



Tom Zillich

About the Author: Tom Zillich

I cover entertainment, sports and news stories for the Surrey Now-Leader, where I've worked for more than half of my 30-plus years in the newspaper business.
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