THE SNOW QUEEN
Take your little ones to a performance of the Hans Christian Anderson classic The Snow Queen. The chilling tale sees a young girl rescue her best friend from the icy monarch, and is set to an original score by Canadian composer Patrick Cardy (performed by the award-winning Cecilia String Quartet). Praised for its thoughtful story and captivating choreography, it’s touted as suitable for ages 5 to 95. Friday, Feb. 18 and Saturday, Feb. 19. Various show times. Canadian Museum of Civilization, 100 Laurier St. $20, student and children $10. www.chamberfest.com
THE SOIRÉE (FREE!)
If you’re craving some warmth, and the camaraderie of a cozy evening with friends, then pop in on The Soirée. A blend of pretty pop melodies and soothing beats, not to mention uplifting lyrics that speak of summer days and young love, this Ottawa band offers a great time for music lovers and those who are just looking for some solid music to warm up to. Monday, Feb. 21. 9 p.m. The Manx, 370 Elgin St. http://thesoiree.net
NAC FAMILY DAY EVENTS (FREE!)
From crafts to storytelling to dance workshops with Toronto’s Shawn Byfield (and even hot chocolate and treats!) the National Arts Centre is looking like a good place to check out on Family Day. Don’t miss the special, interactive display by the people in theatre props, which promises challenges for kids of all ages. Monday, Feb. 21. Noon. National Arts Centre, Main Foyer, 53 Elgin St. www.nac-cna.ca
THE NIGHTINGALE
Enter the magical world of puppetry at the Rag and Bone’s production of The Nightingale. Set in ancient China, this Hans Christian Anderson tale tells of an emperor’s relationship with one nightingale — and the mechanical version that takes its place. (For those wanting to maximize the learning moments of the show, Rag and Bone offers online study guides.) Sunday, Feb. 20. 1:30 p.m. Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd. www.shenkmanarts.ca
VAN GOGH’S EAR (FREE!)
All good things must come to an end, and Van Gogh’s Ear, an international literary anthology series from Paris, is no exception. After nearly 20 years in print, and with a contributor lineup that boasts Joyce Carol Oates, Margaret Atwood, Thich Nhat Hanh, and John Updike, the much-loved magazine is ceasing operations. To bid adieu, local scribes Gabrielle McIntire, rob mclennan, and Amanda Earl, whose work has appeared in the review, will be reading their works. Friday, Feb. 18. 7 p.m. Collected Works Bookshop & Coffeebar, 1242 Wellington St. W. www.collected-works.com
WHEN WE WERE VERY YOUNG (FREE!)
And now for something completely different: a selection of films from the queer avant-garde. Presented by Available Light Screening Collective, the program includes Jack Smith’s Scotch Tape, Su Friedrich’s Gently Down the Stream, and work by Canada’s own Midi Onodera. Aimed at exploring this experimental era of queer film, the evening promises to be both eye-opening and entertaining. Saturday, Feb. 19. 7:30 p.m. Club SAW, 67 Nicholas St. www.galeriesawgallery.com