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Photo by: Gabriel Santos
 
It isn't always necessary to commute all the way to the downtown core to take in Vancouver’s vibrant arts and culture scene. World-class entertainment can be found right here in Burnaby! And, this February, our stages will feature classical operatic performers, hip-hop artists, and a headlining green ogre.
 

Madama Butterfly 

The tragic story of Ciocio-san, a young Japanese woman who marries Pinkerton, an American naval officer, has been moving audiences to tears since it first premiered in Milan, Italy in 1904. Hopelessly in love, the young woman sacrifices everything to marry the American, including renouncing her Buddhist faith and converting to Christianity. She is soon ostracized by her friends and family for this monumental act of betrayal. Soon after the wedding, Pinkerton suddenly leaves and returns to the U.S., leaving his new bride alone in poverty and in dire straits. Three years pass while Ciocio-san raises their son and faithfully awaits Pinkerton’s return. But when he does come back, he is accompanied by his new American wife. Pinkerton is determined to take his son back to America with him. Giacomo Puccini’s magnificent score unravels themes of love, betrayal, and the clashing of two different cultures in the late 1800s. This beautifully sad opera graces the stage at the Shadbolt Theatre from February 22-29. 
 

Shrek the Musical

Don’t miss the chance to see everyone’s favourite green ogre bursting into song! Based on all three Shrek films, Shrek the Musical debuted in 2008, becoming a big Broadway hit. Not only did the show win audiences over, but it also received critical acclaim, garnering 12 Drama Desk Award nominations and 8 Tony Award nominations. The show has since been touring throughout the world. Hilarious, heartfelt, and filled with classic songs like “I’m a Believer,” the production is a must-see for anyone who is a fan of the movies—or musicals, for that matter. Shrek the Musical is on stage at the Michael J. Fox Theatre on February 15, at 7:30 pm.
 

Lil Fest

If you’re in town with your family and you have some hip-hop fans among the bunch, make sure to stop in for the first-ever Lil Fest on February 15 at the PNE Forum. This hip-hop festival welcomes music lovers of all ages and features international stars, brand new acts, and local performers. The lineup includes Shoreline Mafia and Lil Tracy, as well as Vancouver’s own Prado and Anklegod. Doors open at 5 pm. 

When planning your trip to Metro Vancouver, make sure to book your stay with us here at the Best Western Plus Burnaby Hotel. We’re conveniently located, near Vancouver and the downtown core. We're also close to the SkyTrain, which offers safe and reliable transportation to entertainment venues throughout the Lower Mainland. Our rooms and suites offer unparalleled comfort and premium grade amenities including 43-inch flatscreen TV, Telus Optik TV, fibre optic Wi-Fi, and in-room movies. Take advantage of wonderful perks such as an onsite fitness centre, free gym passes to Steve Nash Fitness World, 24-hour front desk and much more. Get in touch to make your reservations today!