Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre Society presenting free event Wednesday

Photo: Contributed

People have a chance to go to the theatre for free.

The Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre Society is bringing back its “Free Night in the Theatre!” event to give North Okanagan audiences, supporters and sponsors a sneak peek at its 2022-23 SPOTLIGHT Season Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

The public is invited to take a 45-minute guided tour of larger-than-life video highlights on VDPAC’s giant screen, including comments from some of the guest artists for the upcoming SPOTLIGHT season.

VDPAC’s Artistic Director and BC Touring Council’s Presenter of the Year for 2022, Erin Kennedy will lead the audience through an exclusive preview of the upcoming season.

A pre-show sponsor reception in VDPAC’s refurbished Okanagan Spirits Foyer, with beverages provided courtesy of hospitality sponsor Peller Estates, will bring together long-time and prospective sponsors as part of VDPAC’s efforts to encourage the North Okanagan community’s safe and confident return to the performing arts centre with a busy schedule this fall.

“Several presenting venues across the country host similar season-launch events,” says Executive Director Jim Harding. “We introduced this event here in June 2019 to give our audiences a better idea of what each show will be, using video to convey the kind of live performance experience they can expect. You’ll leave energized and excited for the new season, and hopefully intrigued by shows you didn’t expect!”

Another goal of the event is to re-introduce VDPAC’s subscription options after a two-year hiatus. In addition to classic Theatre, Dance and Kids Series subscriptions, VDPAC has added more flexible “Pick 5” and “Pick 10” subscription options for “frequent flyer” patrons who want to mix and match shows from different genres, including special presentations.

“Free Night…” audience members will receive a season “checklist” to follow along with the video highlights and staff will be available in the main foyer after the presentation to assist subscribers and to answer any questions.

Ticket Seller will also be open for patrons to purchase subscriptions and single tickets.

Everyone is welcome to attend this free event. Tickets are available on a “first come” basis and guests are encouraged to book their seats in advance online vdpac.ca or by calling the Ticket Seller box office at 250-549-SHOW (7469).

The 2022-23 SPOTLIGHT Season kicks-off with the Juno Award-winning Joel Plaskett Emergency featuring special guest Mo Kenney on Saturday at 7:30 p.m., as part of his “44 & More on Tour”. Patrons are urged to hold onto their Joel Plaskett tickets for a credit towards a “Pick 5” or “Pick 10” SPOTLIGHT Season subscription.