The magic of some sunshine and blue skies is that suddenly it feels like everything will be alright. The onset of spring brings with it the essence of opportunity and energy: yes, I can take on that extra side project! Yes, I will go to that weeknight show! Yes, I am going to cook an entire chicken!

Anyway, if you’re like me and have a renewed sense of buzz thanks to these sunny days, here are some great arts events to check out in the city. Some are this weekend; others are later this month, into next, and beyond—because if you buy tickets now, you’ll thank yourself later.

Justin Ducharme @ Emily Carr University: To the end of March

Métis filmmaker Justin Ducharme is programming a series of on-campus events at Emily Carr that give people a peek into the world of movie production. Currently researching and developing his feature film, called Seventeen, Ducharme is hosting a series of readings, screenings, workshops, live table reads, and more. See the schedule here.

Comedy World @ China Cloud Studios: March 8 and 22

Hosted by local favourite Colin Cowan, this twice-monthly comedy showcase always features a stacked roster of standups. This Friday’s show (March 8) is headlined by Steev Letts (Just For Laughs, CBC) and also features Sam Tonning, Gina Harms, and Nicole Tanner. Bonus? The show takes place in one of the city’s true hidden-gem venues. Hit up Comedy World and then bet on King Louie for cocktails at Bagheera down the street. Tickets: here.

Of and About Posters: The Lawrence Weiner Poster Archive (1965-2021) @ Vancouver Art Gallery: March 9 to August 25

Featuring 250 posters created by Lawrence Weiner, this exhibit from the Vancouver Art Gallery’s archive celebrates a decades-long relationship with the artist. An important figure in conceptual contemporary art, Weiner made a name for himself with his witty and pointed language-based work. Expect pieces that are begging to be Instagrammed.

Disney in Concert: The Sound of Magic @ Orpheum: March 16 to 17

Tuck in for a night of Disney musical classics performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Expect to hear songs from the likes of The Lion King, Peter Pan, Moana, Frozen, and, of course, Fantasia. Tickets: here.

Aché Brasil @ Scotiabank Dance Centre: March 28

The next installment of The Dance Centre’s Discover Dance! series takes audiences to the warm shores of Brazil. Folk Afro-Brazilian dance group Aché Brasil will use rhythm, colour, and athleticism to showcase the country’s rich culture. Tickets: here.

Sophia Johnson @ Oceana PARC Playhouse: April 6, 7pm and 9:15pm

Auckland-born, Vancouver-based standup Sophia Johnson, whose credits include Just For Laughs and CBC, is making her White Rock debut at the White Rock Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Night series. Tickets: here.

Reel 2 Real International Film Festival for Youth @ Roundhouse Community Centre and VIFF Centre: April 7 to 16

This family-friendly film festival brings flicks from around the globe to Vancouver for a week of all-ages fun. Included are two documentaries on Indigenous activists: I Won’t Stand For It, about 15-year-old climate activist Miyawata Stout, and I Place You into the Fire, about Mi’kmaw poet and former poet laureate Rebecca Thomas. Tickets: here.

I Know Your Secret @ Roundhouse Performance Centre: May 1 to 4

Some Assembly theatre presents a world premiere with I Know Your Secret: a psychological thriller exploring the highs and lows of social media. Currently in its 24th season, Some Assembly brings together professional and amateur artists to highlight issues faced by today’s youth. Tickets: here.

Cirque du Soleil’s Echo @ Concord Pacific Place: October 9 to December 15

Cirque du Soleil’s 20th Big Top show follows a young woman’s adventures through a fantastical world of creatures and wilderness. Regardless of the storyline, you can guarantee that if it’s a Cirque production, there will be plenty of mystery and magic to go around. Tickets: here.