The Georgia Straight proudly sponsors the 37th annual Powell Street Festival

Delicious food, taiko drumming, psychedelic opera, and author readings are just some of the highlights at the 37^th annual Powell Street Festival.

Canada’s largest and longest-running celebration of Japanese arts and culture takes place August 3 and 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. This year, events will take place at various venues, including Oppenheimer Park (400 Powell Street), the Firehall Arts Centre (280 East Cordova Street), Vancouver Japanese School (475 Alexander Street), and the Vancouver Buddhist Temple (220 Jackson Street).

This year, the festival will celebrate artistic champions who have overcome challenges. Mitch Miyagawa’s film, A Sorry State, which investigates the impact of state apology on individuals in Canada, will be screened. Taiko drummer Tiffany Tamaribuchi will debut a new work for Canadian taiko ensemble Katari Taiko, and Tomomi Morimoto will debut a butoh-inspired performance, entitled Pond.

Other highlights include a reading by Governor General shortlisted author Mariko Tamaki, performances by Polaris shortlisted psychedelic noh-wave opera group Yamantaka // Sonic Titan, indie-dream pop performer Oharam, and dancer Aretha Aoki.

The festival will also include taiko drumming, sumo wrestling, martial arts, bonsai and ikebana, folk and modern dance, visual arts, historical walking tours, tea ceremonies, and a variety of food, crafts, and displays.