5 cultural events to enjoy at Vancouver Diwali Fest 2016

The 12th Annual Diwali Fest is underway across Vancouver, showcasing the best and brightest in South Asian talent and artistic innovation. Celebrated across the world, Diwali is the biggest, brightest, and most popular event in the Indian calendar, and Diwali Fest has become a destination event in Vancouver’s cultural calendar.

The celebration and spirit of Diwali is truly universal, and everyone from all communities are welcome to participate. Here are five cultural events to enjoy at Diwali Fest 2016.

Piya Behrupiuya (Twelfth Night)

Commissioned by London’s Globe Theatre, The Company Theatre, one of Mumbai’s most innovative theatre groups, created a Bollywood-meets-Shakespeare musical adaptation of Twelfth Night. A runaway success, the contagiously joyful Piya Behrupiya has since been performed nearly 100 times across India and around the world. Will be presented with English subtitles.

When: Now to October 22
Where: York Theatre – 639 Commercial Drive, Vancouver

The Magic Flute – Karen Flamenco

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind dance collaboration where cultural dance performances from Spain and India unite in Canada for Mozart’s The Magic Flute. Featuring the story of Diwali of good over evil and light over darkness, The Magic Flute has over 12 different dance performances showcasing flamenco, Kathak and many other Indian and fusion dance forms performed to live flamenco, live Classical Indian and recorded Bollywood music. Artists include Karen Flamenco, Amika Kushwaha, Cassius Khan, Rohit Chokhani and more.

When: October 15 and 16
Where: Vancouver Playhouse – 600 Hamilton Street, Vancouver

Diwali Downtown Vancouver

Diwali Downtown Vancouver is the festival’s main event, drawing thousands of attendees from all demographics for a South Asian cultural extravaganza. Diwali Downtown brings together the best of contemporary and classical Indian culture for the entire family. This year’s event will include over 15 unique music and dance performances and a room-sized Rangoli.

When: October 29
Where: Roundhouse Community Centre – 181 Roundhouse Mews, Vancouver

Diwali Downtown Surrey

Diwali Downtown Surrey is another key attraction at Diwali Fest, celebrating South Asian culture, food, and more. This year’s event will include music, dance performances, and an Indian-style bazaar with South Asian crafts and food.

When: November 5
Where: Surrey City Hall – 13450 104th Avenue, Surrey

Chai House Coquitlam

Chai House is a signature Diwali Fest event, scaled to suit the multicultural demographic and in collaboration with Evergreen Arts Centre and the Tri-City India Heritage Arts & Culture group. Enjoy a South Asian themed cabaret style evening featuring classical, Bollywood and contemporary dance and music performances. Plus there will be lots of chai and samosas to keep you warm.

When: November 20
Where: Evergreen Cultural Centre – 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam