November 13–30
Three old men and a dog
In the comedic play Heroes, translated by Tom Stoppard, three WWI vets are in a retirement home, but their battles are not over. When the enemies are overzealous nuns and the boredom of endless birthday parties, however, the plan for escape might be more silly than suspenseful. Playing at the Langham Court Theatre; info at langhamtheatre.ca.
Saturday, November 16
Canadian astronaut superstar
Arguably the most famous Canadian this year because of a David Bowie song, Chris Hadfield is touring in support of his new book, An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth. He will be doing a book signing at Bolen Books at 2 pm but probably won’t be playing any guitar; that’s just to pass the time in zero gravity, which Hadfield became the coolest Canuck to ever do.
November 17–18
Rock legend avoids Victoria
Alice Cooper is a legend. Maybe he once bit the head off a chicken, maybe not. The really amazing thing is that he’s still playing shows! He won’t be coming to Victoria, but he will be playing two nights in Nanaimo at the Port Theatre. It’s got to be worth the drive to see a legend in person, possible headless chickens notwithstanding.
Tuesday, November 19
Futuristic meltdown
Deltron 3030, made up of Kid Koala, Dan the Automator, and Del the Funky Homosapien, is bringing their set to Victoria for the first time for a sold-out show. The hip-hop supergroup’s new concept album, Event II, was in the works for years before this year’s release. It’s a streamlined live version of the material that will be played on tour, however. The show is at Alix Goolden Hall; good luck finding tickets!
Monday, November 25
Country rock is alive and well
Roots-rock band The Treasures are bringing their classic sound to Club 90ne9. Inspired by country- and blues-rock bands from the ’60s and ’70s, their music is still modern and undeniably Canadian (all the way from Toronto!).
Until December 8
The Salmon Shuttle doesn’t involve fish in space
It’s salmon spawning time, and even if driving the Malahat to Goldstream Park isn’t your thing (what, you don’t like white-knuckle passive-aggressive tailgating from the guy behind you who just can’t believe you have the gall to go the limit on a deadly road?), you can still catch the action. RLC Park Services is offering a shuttle from downtown Victoria to the park for $10 (one way). A park interpreter will be in the van to share information about the salmon cycle. Go for a hike in the park while you’re there and check out the old-growth trees. Info at rlcparks.ca.