21 things to do in Metro Vancouver on Thursday, May 12

Looking for something to do on Thursday? The Straight’s got you covered. Here are 21 events happening in or around Vancouver on Thursday, May 12.

CONCERTS

The Georgia Straight presents Canadian pop-rock singer-songwriter Bif Naked performing songs from her 10 hit albums and telling stories from new memoir I, Bificus. Held at Venue.

American singer-songwriter and rapper Santigold performs on her We Buy Gold Tour, with guests Kilo Kush, at the Vogue Theatre.

Bucharest house artist Boehm, with guests Bit Catchy, Sivz, and Moonmelt, hits the Fortune Sound Club.

The Rogue Folk Club presents an evening of songwriting and storytelling with Ian Sherwood, Maria Dunn, Khari McClelland, and Lydia Hol. Held at the St. James Hall.

Vancouver-based garage-rock band the Pack A.D. performs in support of its upcoming album, with guests Dead Soft and Glad Rags, at the Cobalt.

Los Angeles–based Welsh singer-songwriter Cate Le Bon tours in support of latest release Crab Day. Held at the Biltmore Cabaret.

BENEFITS

The Canadian Diabetes Association presents gala evening Baubles for Banting at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

An evening of spirit tastings, designer cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and live music raises money for Dress for Success Vancouver. Held at Regency Lexus.

FOOD AND DRINK

Thai-born cookbook chef Pailin Chongchitnant breaks down the key ingredients, flavours, equipment, and techniques necessary to master authentic Thai cooking. Held at Ambrosia Adventures in Cooking.

FORUMS

Developmental psychologist Janet Werker explores the foundations of language learning, including multi-language acquisition, in infancy. Held at Science World at Telus World of Science.

Discuss the importance of the first 72 hours, neighbourhood plans, and business, staff, and personal tips at City Hall Council Chambers.

COMEDY

Standup comedian Ben Gleib, known for hosting brain-teaser game show Idiotest, headlines at the Comedy MIX.

Ross Dauk hosts an evening of standup comedy about raccoons. Held at the Little Mountain Gallery.

ARTS ET CETERA

Circus West presents a steampunk-influenced production that follows young dreamers as they traverse into their fantasies. Held at the PNE Garden Auditorium.

VPL aboriginal storyteller in residence Renae Morriseau discusses how her musical ensemble M'Girl blends new and traditional storytelling. Held at the Vancouver Public Library Central Branch.

The Diamond Ballroom hosts a one-night art show held by mother and daughter duo Denise Cunningham and Caitlin Mellor.

DANCE

Ballet BC concludes its 30th anniversary season with a remount of artistic director Emily Molnar’s 16+ a room, the Canadian premiere of Sharon Eyal's Bill, and a remount of Jorma Elo's I and I Am You. Held at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

LITERARY EVENTS

AlliterAsian Anthology Launch features readings by Carolyn Nakagawa, C.E. Gatchalian, Jackie Wong, Rita Wong, and Crecien Bencio. Held at Centre A.

Spoken INK welcomes authors Farida Somjee and Mallee Stanley. Held at Wings Pub & Grill.

THEATRE

The Arts Club Theatre Company presents the opening night of musical Billy Elliot at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage.

Realwheels Theatre presents community-based performance SexyVoices at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre.