THE EDWARD CURTIS PROJECT
More than 80 years after photographer Edward Curtis documented the First Nations, which he called a “vanishing people,” Métis/Dené playwright Marie Clements and photojournalist Rita Leistner embarked on a journey to re-contextualize his findings. The result is a phenomenal multi-disciplinary theatre production contrasting Curtis’ findings and the contemporary landscapes and people encountered by these two women. Directed by Clements, The Great Canadian Theatre Company provides an insightful glimpse into modern First Nations communities throughout North America. From $36. Until Sunday, April 21. See website for show times. Irving Greenberg Theatre Centre, 1233 Wellington St. W., www.gctc.ca.
POTTERY SALE AND EXHIBITION (FREE!)
Fifty Ottawa ceramic artists and potters have been wedging, trimming, glazing, and firing up a storm in preparation for the annual Ottawa Guild of Potters Spring Sale and Juried Exhibition. The Ottawa Guild of Potters celebrates their 40th anniversary this year, and will kick off the weekend with a vernissage at 6 p.m. on Thursday. Come browse the creations of local potters, and find a uniquely hand crafted pot or sculpture to call your own! Thursday, April 11, to Sunday, April 14. See website for exhibition hours. Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd., www.shenkmanarts.ca.
THE COTTAGE AND BACKYARD SHOW
There might be a snowstorm in the forecast, but that won’t stop us from picturing days spent at the lake or dinners on the patio. The Cottage and Backyard Show rolls into town to get your outdoor space equipped for some fun in the sun. Join in seminars on gardening, grilling, and landscaping with resident experts to brush up on your knowledge of the season. And don’t miss out on this weekend of prizes, contests, and exhibitors to renew your holiday haven. $12, $10 online, children 17 and under free. Friday, April 12 to Sunday, April 14. See website for show hours. Ernst and Young Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., www.caneastshows.ca/Cottage-Home.
SOMETHING’S AFOOT!
In their 10th anniversary year, Theatre Wakefield is celebrating their 45th stage production with the murder-mystery musical spoof Something’s Afoot! Based on the works of Agatha Christie, you’ll be riveted as singing, dancing, and sleuthing take to a two-storey stage to reveal which of his guests murdered Lord Rancour. With nearly one-fifth of Wakefield’s population involved with this production in one way or another, this play is a testament to the importance of theatre in the community. $18, $15 in advance. Friday, April 12, and Saturday, April 13, 7:30 p.m. Wakefield-La Pêche Community Centre, 38 Valley Dr., Wakefield, www.theatrewakefield.ca.
HARLAN PEPPER AND THE STRUMBELLAS
The Black Sheep Inn is rockin’, and you should come a knockin’! Hamilton quartet Harlan Pepper boasts and eclectic blend of country, hard rock, blues, and folk. Sharing the stage with them are Juno-nominated, bluegrass-inspired indie rockers the Strumbellas, who are off to Regina for the Junos next week. This smashing six-piece group delivers high-energy sound and big pop hooks that are guaranteed to stick with you long after the last note. $10. Friday, April 12, 8:30 p.m. The Black Sheep Inn, 753 Riverside Dr., Wakefield, Qbc., www.theblacksheepinn.com.
DANCING AURORAE
What do the North Pole and the South Pole have in common? Luminous curtains of polar lights! Known to the Cree as “The Dance of the Spirits,” polar lights have had many names and various explanations throughout history. At this family workshop, kids ages four to 12 can learn more about this awe-inspiring astronomical phenomenon, and make a colourful take-home craft. $12, students and seniors $10, children three to 12 $8, children two and under free. Friday, April 12, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Canada Science and Technology Museum, 1867 St Laurent Blvd., www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca.
OTTAWA GALA: OTTAWA’S BOARDWALK EMPIRE
Throw on your glad rags and get dolled up for a night on the town! The Ottawa Gala is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and fittingly this year’s event takes us back to the Roaring Twenties. Hooch will be flowing, jazz will rock the joint, and flappers will dance the night away. With all proceeds going to local initiatives to alleviate the effects of poverty on children and families, this ritzy soiree is truly the cat’s meow. $70. Saturday, April 13, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Government Conference Centre, 2 Rideau St., english.ottawagala.com.
NATIONAL WOMEN’S SHOW
Craving a girls’ weekend? With over 250 exhibitors, the National Women’s Show offers something for all the ladies, offering everything from food and wine sampling to home renovation advice. Celebrity guests include fashion designers, psychics, dance teachers, career coaches, and Brad and Bianka from The Bachelor Canada (how could you not go?). Grab your girlfriends and show up early so you don’t miss out on a limited number of goodie bags! $12, children 12 and under free. Saturday, April 13, and Sunday, April 14. See website for show times and vendor information. Ottawa Convention Centre, 55 Colonel By Dr., www.nationalwomenshow.com.
KIDSFEST: 12TH ANNUAL PARENT AND KIDS SHOW
Bring your brood down to the 12th annual edition of Kidsfest. Stage shows, interactive exhibits, and educational demonstrations will captivate the kids (until Dora and Diego wander by!) For the little divas, Capital Kid Idol offers a chance to sing their way to the top. And for all you parents? Check out exhibits about family travel and summer camps to help plan your summer. $15.50, children two to 17 $11, children two and under free. Saturday, April 13, and Sunday, April 14, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ernst and Young Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., www.kidsfestottawa.ca.