THINGS TO DO IN HAMILTON, BURLINGTON

If you have an event happening in Hamilton and Burlington you would like to see listed here, email HCM editor Meredith MacLeod at meredith@hamiltoncitymagazine.ca.

HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND

Casey and Diana
Inspired by Princess Diana’s historic visit to Toronto’s Casey House in 1991, Casey and Diana is a tremendously moving and surprisingly funny portrait of the men at the heart of the AIDS crisis, their devoted caregivers, and the “People’s Princess” who had the spirit to touch their hearts and the compassion to hold their hands when no one else would. This plan is written by Nick Green and directed by Andrew Kushnir and was originally commissioned by The Stratford Festival. This is a co-production with The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre. Tickets can be found here. Feb. 19 to March 8, Theatre Aquarius, 190 King William St., Hamilton

RBG: Alice in Bloomland
Tumble down the rabbit hole into Alice in Bloomland, a wondrous botanical experience at Royal Botanical Gardens where reality bends and blossoms into a world of curiosity for all ages. Inspired by the pages of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this floral showcase weaves together the magic of horticulture, the whimsy of floral design, and the marvel of visual arts to create an enchanting indoor wonderland straight out of a dream. Brighten the cold winter months with fresh fragrance and vibrant colours as 25,000 real orchid blooms unfold over the course of this awe-inspiring exhibit. Marvel at curious plant displays featuring cyclamen, bromeliads, anthuriums, air plants, and spring bulbs. Plus, encounter life-sized pieces that invite you to step into a world of wonder. Join a topsy-turvy world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and Alice in Bloomland fills the season with colour, wonder, and a dash of madness. This is a time-ticketed experience. Tuesdays to Sundays. Until March 30. Looking for a 19+ evening experience? Check out RBG After Dark on Feb. 20 and March 20, 6 to 10 p.m. Sip signature cocktails, savour delicious food, while music and whimsical characters enchant you as you explore this dreamlike botanical showcase. Tickets are here. RBG Centre, 680 Plains Rd. W. Burlington

Write Like
Calling all young writers and fans of storytelling magic! Whether you love Stranger Things, Dungeons and Dragons, or Anime, this two-day in-person event is your chance to dive into the art of storytelling with workshops, author talks, and live performances when writers and fans of your favourite comics, TV shows and stories share how their stories come to life. This is a free event for youth of all writing levels. Learn new techniques, get feedback and find your community of writers. Write Like is presented by Hamilton Verse. Feb. 20, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. is the Write Like conference, Feb. 20, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. is a Dungeons and Dragons game night with Aabria Iyengar, and Feb. 21, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. is an anthology launch. Register here. Hamilton Public Library, Central Branch, 55 York Blvd., Hamilton

Museums are free this weekend
In honour of Heritage Week, all Hamilton Civic Museums (Battlefield House, Dundurn Castle, Fieldcote, Military Museum, Steam & Technology, and Whitehern) will be open for visitation free of charge this Saturday and Sunday., Feb. 21 and 22. Each site will be running tours on a first come-first serve basis. Dundurn will be hosting a Heritage Day celebration and social in The Coach House from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb 22.⁠ ⁠Can't join this weekend? Remember, a Hamilton Public Library card gets you in free all year long. (General admission, must present card) Visit here for details.

Maple syrup at Westfield
You can bring the family together for one of Canada's most time-honoured and tasty traditions, as maple syrup season returns to Westfield Heritage Village this winter. Discover how sap is turned into syrup, stroll down the maple trivia trail, or take a bite out of a delicious and freshly made pancake at this outdoor event. Maple treats will also be available at the General Store and Gift Shop. Visitors must reserve a time slot for event days, and they sell out fast, so don't wait! This special program will be offered on: Sundays – Feb. 23, March 2, 9, 16, and 23 – and March Break days on Wednesday, March 12 and Thursday, March 13. For full event and ticket information, click here. Westfield Heritage Village, 1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton

Theatre Burlington
Theatre Burlington's season continues with winter show Timepiece by Kico Gonzalez-Risso (Feb. 21, 22). As the clock ticks down in the kitchen, the kids want to plan for the future. Mom wants a smooth transition into the golden years, while Dad doesn’t understand what all the fuss is about. This dark comedy explores the parent-child relationship amid a changing family dynamic. The season closes with Bluebirds by Vern Thiessen (April 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26). At the height of the Great War, three nurses cross the ocean to care for wounded Canadian soldiers. Despite their trying circumstances, the trio manages to stay hopeful while finding friendship and independence. This award-winning drama examines the role of women in a world where men are, once again, trying to destroy it. Theatre Burlington, 2311 New St., Burlington

WinterTide at RBG
Bring your friends together to experience the magic of winter as the Rock Garden at Royal Botanical Gardens is transformed into a beautiful indoor and outdoor jazz lounge. Running Thursday through Saturday evenings, you can stroll underneath glowing lights, warm up around a fire pit, or cozy up indoors to live music, delicious bites, and signature cocktails. With performances from emerging and award-winning artists, it's an experience you won't want to miss.  See the musical lineups and book your reservation here. Until March 22, 5:30 to 10 p.m., last admission at 9 p.m., Royal Botanical Gardens, 1185 York Blvd, Hamilton

Sleepless For Our Community
Sleepless For Our Community is a signature United Way Halton & Hamilton event with a powerful purpose: to raise awareness about the interconnected issues surrounding poverty in our local communities. This peer-to-peer fundraising initiative fosters change through collective action, by asking event participants to sleep overnight in their cars on Feb. 21 from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. the following morning. All funds will be matched and donated to our network of critical agencies and support programs for vulnerable indivdiuals and families in the Halton Region and Hamilton Region. The goal is to raise $300,000. This is the first year opening the event to anyone who is passionate about community engagement and making a difference. All the information is here, including a safety kit for participants.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at HTI
Hamilton Theatre Inc.'s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee kicks off its 66th season. Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences with its wit and humour. An eclectic group of six students vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, pout-inducing, life un-affirming “ding” of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion. The run will feature 11 shows, including a relaxed performance at a matinee on March 2 that will be staged for those with neurodiverse needs. Tickets are on sale now. Until March 9, Hamilton Theatre Inc. Studio Theatre, 140 MacNab St. N., Hamilton

Exhibitions at The Carnegie Gallery
The Carnegie Gallery in Dundas will kick off two new exhibitions. “Evanesce” showcases emerging Hamilton-based contemporary realist artist Jill Letten who will be bringing new paintings for her first Carnegie Gallery solo exhibition. This exhibition features acrylic paintings on wood panel, which use sourced images from the library public domain as reference. The layering of images from bygone eras creates a complexity of colour and form, situating pockets of abstraction within a realistic representation. These layered visuals confront the parallels between past and present, scrutinizing the romanticized narratives surrounding the perception of historical prosperity. “Daybreak” is new work by Hamilton-based glass blower, Rob Raeside in his first Carnegie Gallery solo exhibition. Raeside has been working with glass since 2008. He studied at Sir Sanford Fleming College and Sheridan College, was accepted as an artist-in-residence at Harbourfront Centre in the Craft & Design Studio (Glass) in 2018, and was accepted into the Living Arts Centre residency program in fall 2023. Drawing inspiration from classic forms and simple geometry, he has an inherent knowledge of his material and through refined technique, skillfully manipulates glass to create playful pieces and elegant objects. Until March 2, Carnegie Gallery, 10 King St. W., Dundas

AGB opens two new exhibits
2025 marks 50 years of the Art Gallery of Burlington and the AGB is using it as a unique chance to examine the past, look towards the future and find its place in the present. Exhibitions feature Canadian artists and curators, circulating stories of place and our relationship to time. The AGB is kicking off this golden anniversary with a winter exhibitions “Time Isn’t Real” and “Dry Thunder.” Time Isn’t Real is a landmark exhibition celebrating 50 years of artistic production, cultural festivities, and storytelling through the lens of contemporary Canadian ceramics. Running until April 27, this dynamic exhibition, curated by Suzanne Carte, explores the intersections of time, materiality, and imagination. The Lee-Chin Family Gallery, with its vast 4,800 square feet of exhibition space, is dedicated to large-scale initiatives. “Time Isn’t Real” takes its title from the words of Ojibwe Anishinaabe grandmother Kim Wheatly who reminds us that indoctrinated time is not the only measure of time, and that the natural cycles of earth and cosmos inform our ways of being. In contrast to this prescribed notion of time, the exhibition invites viewers to reconsider how clay – an ancient material that embodies the passage of time itself – can serve as both a witness and a participant in the shaping of history and the imagining of the future. The exhibition features works from the AGB’s unparalleled collection of over 4,000 contemporary Canadian ceramic pieces alongside bold new creations by artists including Alex Jacobs-Blum, Roy Caussy x Glenn Lewis, Gabi Dao, Hannah Faas, Thomas Haskell, Manuel Mathieu, Julie Moon, Lindsay Montgomery, Anahita Norouzi, ORXSTRA, Linda Sormin, and Shanie Tomassini. Curated by Sarah Edo, the Perry Gallery features another exhibition, “Dry Thunder,” runs until April 27. This is Misbah Ahmed’s first institutional solo exhibition, brings together ceramic sculptures and paintings to explore and meditate on regional folklore, eco-poetics, and urban and wildlife transformation. Similar to the atmospheric and metaphoric contradictions of dry thunder, Ahmed molds traditional vessel shapes into anamorphic forms, inscribing them with local (Sindhi-Punjabi-Hunza) folktales and mythologies. Art Gallery of Burlington, 1333 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington

Ascending Horizons: MMA
The McMaster Museum of Art presents “Ascending Horizons,” an exhibition that explores how Indigenous women activate their connection to the natural world and dream of new worlds for future generations. Tethering land, water, the moon and the cosmos to Indigenous women’s bodies, the exhibition honours and celebrates the sacred cycles of creation and movement, birthing bodies and their grounding in the fertile capacities of earth in relation to the pull of the moon and the sky world. Featured artists are KC Adams, Carrie Allison, Judy Anderson, Hannah Claus, Elizabeth Doxtater, Charlene Vickers ands Marie Watt. We are in a time that requires us to reimagine our relationship with the Earth, calling for a return to Indigenous knowledge. Indigenous communities seek guidance from women in this healing process, as they are said to hold sacred feminine connections with the Earth. At the same time, the Earth holds maternal connections in caring for us. Through transdisciplinary artistic practices: cornhusking, photography, video, performance, installation, ceramics, beadwork and embroidery, each of the seven artists call upon their own Nations’ thought systems and the knowledge of their ancestors toward an infinite and regenerative future. Ascending Horizons, which runs until June 20, builds on Haudenosaunee and Algonquian teachings to re-envision elements of the natural world – from Earth to Sky – to consider how we navigate between them and reimagine a future alongside the creative capacity of Indigenous women. McMaster Museum of Art, Alvin A. Lee Bldg, University Ave., McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W., Hamilton

Film school
The Hamilton Film Festival and School of Media Arts have opened registration for classes in filmmaking for kids, teens and adults, special effects, writing, acting, voice acting and for its March Break camp. Check out more information here.

HAPPENING NEXT WEEK

Soupfest
Soupfest is a delicious way to support Living Rock Youth Resource Centre, a vital organization that has been doing critical work with the city’s vulnerable youth since 1985. Soupfest features soups from the city’s top restaurants. Attendees will have the chance to vote for awards such as best soup, most creative soup, and best display. Each $20 ticket allows guests to sample four bowls of soup from participating restaurants. In the past year alone, Living Rock has welcomed over 22,200 visits from some of Hamilton's most vulnerable youth—ages 13 to 25—facing challenges like familial loss, poverty, food insecurity, substance use, and mental health concerns. Many of the youth it serves depend on Living Rock’s support to help navigate social systems, such as accessing shelter, housing, and health services, while also addressing their basic needs. Living Rock provides free meals, groceries, and a continuum of free services that includes pro-social activities, case management, life skills development, and hands-on employment opportunities. Get tickets here. Feb. 25, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s, 1 Summers Lane

HPO: The Five Senses
The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra presents the next episode in its Intimate & Immersive musical journey with The Five Senses. This inventive multidisciplinary concert, conducted by James Kahane, music director of the HPO, will immerse the audience as they explore their five senses through the relationship between music and sound.The Five Senses features the premieres of new works by Abigail Richardson-Schulte, HPO composer-in-residence and HPO composer fellow Tsz Long (Fish) Yu and showcases pieces by the Jules Léger Prize for New Chamber Music winner Linda Caitlin Smith and Colombian composer Violeta Cruz. Each work performed in The Five Senses concert program explores the senses in different ways, including absence. The premiere of Richardson-Schulte’s accordion concerto “Bloom” tells her story of emerging from deafness as a child. In “The Breath of Spring,” Yu wrote as a newcomer to Toronto of his experience of winter thawing to spring. To mark the transition from stormy, snowy weather to the delicate rebirth of nature, he presents an interesting mix of electronics and acoustic music that supplements the orchestral palette. Smith's “Goldleaf” is a visual atmospheric work about autumn translated into sound. It is a striking study in colour and texture with the percussion adding the shimmer of goldleaf. It focuses on the impression of autumn colours on the person who attentively observes them. Finally, Kahane brings a work he knows well: “Vire Vole”by Cruz, a piece all about wind. OPTICKS, an experimental projection and light art initiative based in Hamilton, will present a light and video installation created in response to the music. The HPO’s partnership with local arts collectives is a signature element for all concerts in the Intimate & Immersive series. The performance space at The Cotton Factory, the HPO’s Intimate & Immersive concert series partner, will be visually transformed by the immersive light and colour art installation. Tickets are here. Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m., The Cotton Factory, 270 Sherman St. N., Hamilton

Because Brrr
Get your brew loving friends together for a weekend of sampling craft beer and cider at the Because Brrr Craft Beer Festival this winter at Bridgeworks. Sample local craft beer and cider, indulge in delicious eats, and enjoy live music from various artists throughout the weekend. Participating breweries and cideries include Bellwoods Brewery, Collective Arts Brewing, Paris Brewing, Black Fly Beverage Co., West Avenue Cider House and more. While you sip on your craft beer you can enjoy musical stylings from Born In The Eighties and My Son The Hurricane. For full event and ticket information, visit here. Feb. 28 to March 1, Bridgeworks, 200 Caroline St. N., Hamilton

HAPPENING IN MARCH

HAALSA: The Picture of Aging in Canada
The next HAALSA (The Hamilton Association for the Advancement of Literature, Science, and Art) lecture will feature Dr. Parminder Raina, presenting “The Picture of Aging in Canada: What Does the Evidence Show?” He is co-founder and principal investigator for the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, the largest and longest study of its type in Canada. The CLSA, based in Hamilton and managed with colleagues at Dalhousie and McGill universities, includes 160 researchers in 26 institutions nationwide. More than 50,000 Canadian volunteers, who are being investigated over a 20-year period, were between 45 and 85 years old when the study began in 2010, which means that some are, or soon will be, centenarians. This is a complex, important undertaking. Dr. Raina will discuss the study and share some of the issues, challenges and lessons from current findings that could help individuals and society to improve health and well-being for people as they age. He is a professor in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact at McMaster. He has been appointed a member of the Order of Canada for contributions to research methodology and knowledge about aging that have influenced public policy. The event is free and registration is not necessary. March 1, 7:30 pm (1 hr., + Q&A), Place: Rm. 1A1, Ewart Angus Centre, McMaster University Medical Centre, (NW corner of the children's hospital bldg)

Festitalia 50th Anniversary Volunteer Fair
Festitalia, Hamilton’s celebration of all things Italian, turns 50 this year. Planning is underway for programs and activities that will expand Festitalia festivities from June to October. The celebration will kick off June 21-22, which is Italian Heritage Month, with the Festitalia Expo: Italy experiences all under one roof. The event will explore Italy through food & drink, arts & culture, sports & leisure, travel & culture, and history through local roots in Hamilton. But Festitalia needs your help. Festitalia is hosting a volunteer fair to share its plans for the Expo celebration and events, and how you can bring your passion and energy to help. Come to learn more about volunteer needs, expectations and rewards. Register here. March 1, 10 a.m. to noon, Hamilton Italian Centre (HIC), 420 Crerar Dr.

Raise The Feather: An Evening of Indigenous Storytelling
Join host Cher Obediah, filmmaker, writer, artist and speaker for an evening of storytelling and music with former Chief of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation Stacey Laforme,along with singer-songwriter Lacey Hill, artisan and writer Dawn Cheryl Hill, and filmmaker, singer-songwriter and artist Layla Staats. Raise the Feather is an event honouring Indigenous strength, talent, and voices. Tickets are here. March 6, 8 p.m., The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Candlelight at The Westdale
Come bask in the glow of The Westdale for a series of Candlelight concerts by the Listeso String Quartet. Enjoy the music of Taylor Swift March 7, 6:30 p.m., ABBA, March 7 and 8, April 4, 8:45 p.m., Adele, March 29 and April, 6:30 p.m., Queen and The Beatles, March 8 and April 5, 8:45 p.m., Bach to The Beatles, March 29, 8:30 p.m., Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, March 28, 8:45 p.m. and Coldplay and Imagine Dragons, March 28, April 5, 6:30 p.m. Tickets are here. The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Bach Elgar Choir
The is the 150^th anniversary of Gilbert and Sullivan's first operetta Trial By Jury and the Bach Elgar Choir is celebrating with an evening of ingenious satire and wonderful music. A hit since its inception, Trial By Jury bubbles with riotous anarchy, skewering the pomp of the law and the foolishness of its litigants. It’s the most fun you can have in a courtroom. The Bach Elgar Choir, conducted by Alexander Cann, also presents the story of Gilbert and Sullivan's phenomenal career, told through highlights from their best works. Supported by a brilliant cast of soloists and the members of theHamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, this is an opportunity to appreciate the sparkle of Sullivan's music and laugh with the genius of Gilbert's wit. Lead performers are Julie Ludwig (soprano), Thomas Macleay (tenor), Alexander Dobson (baritone) and Giles Tomkins (bass-baritone). Tickets are here. March 8, 7:30 p.m., Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E., Ancaster

gritLIT: Pages, Pens, and Pints (A Silent Reading and Writing Event)
Kickstart your creative energy (quietly). Whether you're starting a new book or working on a writing project, this is your chance to connect with fellow book lovers (without the small talk!) while ordering a drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available). RSVP here. March 9 and April 13, Mosaic Neighbourhood Bar, 431 Barton St. E., Hamilton

Free jazz at The Rathskeller
Having last played at the late lamented Casbah in the fall, the Hamilton jazz ensemble Ghost Variables is trying out a new venue for a monthly gig this spring. From March to May on the second Friday of every month, Ghost Variables will play the Rathskeller pub. Since 2023, Ghost Variables has been presenting its unique blend of composed, devised, and improvised music. The ensemble consists of – Gary Barwin, Connor Bennett – reeds
Chris Palmer, guitar David Lee, double bass, and Mike Hansen, percussion. The U.S. scholar Thomas Brothers calls “azz music the interaction of the fixed, and the variable. Ghost Variables, as a musical ensemble, inhabit the region between the fixed – what is known, and the variable – what is yet to be played. No cover. March 14, April 11 and May 16, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., The Rathskeller, downstairs at the Germania Club, 863 King St. E., Hamilton

Art Crawl
Art Crawl on James Street North have become a tradition on the second Friday of the month. The next dates are March 14 and April 11. For those already looking ahead to Friday art crawls this summer, there's been an expansion to this year's road closure schedule. James Street North will be closed for art crawls on May 9, June 13, July 11, Aug. 8, and Oct. 10.

Dan Hill at The Westdale
Dan Hill will play The Westdale as part of a Riverboat Revisited series, highlighting iconic performers from the historic Riverboat Coffee House in Toronto. Hill, a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, has left an indelible mark on the music world with timeless hits like “Sometimes When We Touch,” which has been covered by artists from Dolly Parton to Rod Stewart. A five-time Juno Award winner and inductee into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, Hill’s career spans four decades, with more than 100 million units sold globally. His music, including his No. 1 hits “Can’t We Try” and “I Do (Cherish You),” has resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. His latest album, On the Other Side of Here, reflects his ever-evolving artistry, while his leadership in diversity and inclusion through Anthem Entertainment highlights his commitment to making a difference. The Riverboat Coffee House was opened in 1964 by Bernie Fiedler. It became a legendary venue in Yorkville, hosting countless iconic artists. A hub for Canada’s music scene, it launched the careers of many artists and remains celebrated as a cultural landmark, immortalized with a Heritage Toronto plaque in 2009. Tickets are here. March 15, 7:30 p.m., The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Sinfonia Marsala
Sinfonia Ancaster's first concert of the new year brings a vibrant blend of musical traditions, taking its inspiration from masala (Indian spice mix), as it fuses Indian classical music and western orchestral sounds. Antonin Dvořák's cheerful and familiar “Symphony No. 8” will delight you, with its folk-inspired and colourful themes. Known for its lush and memorable melodies, this boisterous symphony is a favourite among both audiences and performers. “Meri Sakkhi Ki Avaaz” (My Sister's Voice) by Reena Esmail is the centrepiece of the concert, a gorgeous work that beautifully blends the emotionally expressive vocabulary of the Indian raga tradition with the sounds of a symphony orchestra. Featuring two sopranos (Vidita Kanniks and Bethany Horst) with different musical vocabularies, Esmail's glorious composition for Hindustani singer, soprano and orchestra takes listeners on a cross-cultural journey that explores global sisterhood across cultures. The sinuous melodies from Jean Sibelius' “Belshazzar's Feast” will add zesty elements to the musical mix, and Hamilton-based tabla player Sajan Prem will take a star turn in “Testament,” another Esmail work that weaves a tale of emotions and cultures. Tickets are here. March 21, 7 p.m., Peller Hall, Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E., Ancaster

Fully Committed
This devastatingly funny one-act follows a day in the life of Sam Peliczowski, an out-of-work actor who works the red-hot reservation line at Manhattan’s number-one restaurant. Coercion, threats, bribes, histrionics—a cast of desperate callers will stop at nothing to land a prime reservation or the right table. Amid the barrage, Sam’s got his own needs to contend with—his recently widowed dad wants him home for Christmas, and he’s up for a choice part at Lincoln Center. Tickets are here. March 26 to April 12, Theatre Aquarius, 190 King William St., Hamilton

DOWN THE ROAD

gritLIT: Emma Donoghue at the Playhouse Cinema
gritLIT is pleased to welcome Emma Donoghue to the Playhouse Cinema to discuss her newest book, The Paris Express. Donoghue, author of Room, The Wonder and Pull of the Stars has written a new novel – a taut and suspenseful historical novel that reimagines an 1895 French railway disaster, an event famously documented in dramatic photographs. Set over a single day, as the morning train travels from the Normandy coast to Paris, men, women and children take their seats in the passenger cars, which are divided by wealth and status. Among the passengers is an anarchist intent on destruction, a young boy travelling alone, a pregnant woman fleeing her home village for the anonymity of the big city, a medical student who suspects a girl may have a fatal disease, and the railway men, devoted to the train, to the company and to each other. The Paris Express is a thrilling ride and a literary masterpiece that captures the politics, fears and chaos of the end of the nineteenthcentury. Tickets are here. April 9, doors open at 6:30, conversation 7 to 8 p.m., with book signing to follow, Playhouse Cinema, 177 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

Women Fully Clothed
Women Fully Clothed has sold out theatres in Toronto, Chicago, New York, LA, Vegas and so many wonderful towns in between. Eugene Levy calls them: “The funniest women in Canada.” The Globe and Mail says, “If there’s a group of funnier comediennes working these days, I’m not aware of them.” With their critically acclaimed comedic brilliance, Robin Duke, Jayne Eastwood, Kathryn Greenwood and Teresa Pavlinek explore the hilarity of life through scene and song and make us laugh at ourselves until there isn’t a dry seat in the house. Find tickets here. April 10, 7:30 p.m., Theatre Aquarius, 190 King William St., Hamilton

Hamilton Originals: The Songs of The Cars and Elvis Costello
Hamilton’s Jacob Moon, a guitarist and singer-songwriter, and Chris Altmann, a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, along with special guests will perform the music of two of pop’s greatest songwriters, featuring iconic hits like “Drive”, “Just What I Needed”, “Alison”, and “Oliver’s Army,:  The Cars were a rock band formed in Boston in 1976, emerging from the new wave scene, with Rick Ocasek as the principal songwriter. Five of their seven albums are certified platinum, and their self-titled debut was one of the best-selling albums of the 1970s, remaining on the Billboard album charts for over a year. Elvis Costello has garnered multiple awards and honours. He and his original band, the Attractions, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 and, in 2004, he was named No. 80 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. Tickets are here. April 11, 8 p.m., The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Candlelight concerts
Music by candlelight shows are coming to the Cotton Factory: Rings and Dragons, (themes from Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones), April 19, 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. and The Best of Hans Zimmer, April 18, 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Tickets are here. Cotton Factory, 270 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

Waitress
Jenna Hunterson is a waitress and expert pie maker stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. When a baking contest offers her a chance at escape, Jenna fights to reclaim part of herself. Waitress celebrates the power of friendship, dreams, the family we choose and the beauty of a well-baked pie. Music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles. A co-production of the Grand Theatre in London. Tickets are served here. April 30 to May 17, Theatre Aquarius, 190 King William St., Hamilton

Off-season at Aquarius
A Whole New World: The Musical Magic of Alan Menken (May 22) is a true triple-threat – a unique and powerful musical documentary style show that will leave audiences raving about the show long after the final curtain. And just in time for Pride, Ginger Minj: The Big Gay Cabaret (June 5) will bring an exuberant showcase celebrating LGBTQ+ culture through music, comedy, and performance art to the Theatre Aquarius stage. Hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni Ginger Minj, this is a must-see event for anyone looking to experience the dazzling world of drag and the spirit of pride. Visit here to learn more and grab tickets.

RECURRING EVENTS

Open mic kickoff
Vertagogo is re-launching a weekly open mic every Tuesday at 7 p.m. with a rotating curation of hosts! Singer-songwriters, drag artists, poets, musicians, comedians, magicians…all are welcome! There is a big stage, big sound system, and great hosts. The event includes a pay-what-you-can cover and is all ages until 11 p.m. Vertagogo, 1385 Main St. E., Hamilton

Risky Business ’80s Night
After a 10-year run at the now-closed Casbah, the popular Risky Business ’80s Night (first Saturday of the month) shifts to its new location at The Corktown Pub. The Corktown, 175 Young St., Hamilton

Improving your improv
If you ever wanted to jump on a stage and beef up your improv chops, The Staircase is the place. There are weekly drop-ins and dedicated workshop series. Check it out here.

Date-night cooking class
Rather than let someone else do the cooking on your next date night, take matters into your own hands by attending a date-night cooking class, offered by chef-run Gastro Market. Held each Friday evening, the classes feature a set theme and ethnic cuisine, and wrap up with participants enjoying the resulting three-course meal by candlelight in the on-site dining room. Not just for couples, Gastro Market can also accommodate private classes for a minimum of 10 students, and also offers several skills courses to help get Hamiltonians cooking. Fire up their website for more details on all the classes offered, pricing, and upcoming schedule. Gastro Market, 193 King St. E.  

Date-night painting class
Add a bit of colour to your next night out by joining local artist Karen Klucowicz at her Cotton Factory studio for a date-night painting class. No artistic experience is required at the intimate monthly class, limited to five couples, each with their own workstation affording a bit of privacy for chatting, admiring, or giggling. The night begins with a drawing exercise, moves to some technique work, and culminates in each couple creating a painting of their own, which will surely be wall worthy. All materials are provided, as is a titch of wine and light snacks, because creativity can work up an appetite. More information here. 270 Sherman Ave. N.

Room and Board Games
Bored with your own board game selection? Hamilton’s own board game café – the Bard and the Bear – offers meetups on the last Thursday of each month where boardies are welcomed to try any of the 900+ games on tap. Come as a group or – if you’re sick of solitaire – meet fellow enthusiasts to discover your new favourite game. With an enthusiastic staff on hand to offer recommendations or help decipher instructions, and a full food menu to provide sustenance, the good times will be sure to roll. Bard and the Bear, 237 James St. N.

Downward doggos
Many things in life can be improved with the presence of a puppy and yoga is no exception. Get your dog-fuelled dopamine pumping at Studio 35 Puppy Yoga, where an instructor leads a 95-minute class as 10 furry free-roaming roly polys “help” guide you through the session. The final 25 minutes of the class are dedicated to the most snuggly savasana you’ve ever had. For the yoga-curious out there, if there was ever a reason to finally roll out a mat – it’s puppies. Check out the website for full details and to book a session.

Float Your Boat
Test the theory that life is better on the water this summer by taking a 50-minute narrated cruise aboard the Hamiltonian, launching from the Pier 7 docks. Gain a new water-based perspective of the city’s skyline while the captain recounts the history of Hamilton’s bustling harbour. As you hop off the boat at the end of the trip, full of fresh air and fun facts – and leave the docking to the staff (so many ropes!) – you can also test the theory that the best boat is someone else’s. Cruise over to the website for schedules, ticket pricing and more info.

Ride On
The Moto Social, the global motorcycle initiative where motorbikes are optional for membership but good vibes are mandatory, cruises again to Hamilton this summer for monthly meetups. Helping build a bit of suspense, the location of each gathering is announced two weeks prior. Past spots include Hutch’s, Grain & Grit and Merk Snack Bar. Regardless of the locale, there will likely be lots of parking at these mobile parties, where those who ride mingle happily with bikeless bipeds.

Smarten Up
If social media scrolling is causing some atrophy of the ol’ thinker, it’s time to get curious and head to Shawn and Ed’s Brewing Co. in Dundas for the monthly Nerd Night. The PWYC event, with proceeds going to the Routes Youth Centre, features an evening of educational talks led by esteemed hosts – their credentials housed in the impressive smattering of letters after their names. Wide-ranging smarty-pants topics cover philosophy, science and more, the brain-bending and social evenings providing way more fun than a Google search could ever offer. Study the website for dates and more details.

Blues for the Sunday Blues
Occasionally, things get a bit blue at Shawn and Ed’s Brewing Co., but not in a bad way. Musicians Chuck Jackson and Tyler Yarema – members of the Juno award winning Downchild Blues Band – perform monthly at the historic brewhouse, adding a pinch of soul-filled rhythm that pairs perfectly with the house-made hops. During the Blues and Brews show, audiences can enjoy some afternoon sustenance from the brewery’s menu of snacks and bevvies – the live music and tasty treats marking an ideal way to start an upcoming week off on the right note. First Sunday of each month.

Soapy Soliloquies
There’s nothing quite so brilliant as those ideas that strike in the solitude of the shower, somewhere between shampooing and conditioning with nary a pen to be found. Monday Press – Hamilton’s independent publisher and arts collective – invites you to Shower Thoughts, their monthly drop-in writing workshop to flesh out these soggy musings on paper. The evening begins with a reading by a featured poet followed by writing exercises and workshopping with a supportive and creative crowd. The night wraps with an open mic where the prose – all cleaned up – can make its official debut. First Monday of every month, 7 p.m., Farside, 288 James St. N.

Mama Mondays and the Townhall Tikes
Just as tots benefit from social outings, so, too, do their caregivers. Join a community of smalls and talls at Townhall Social Eatery during Mama Mondays, where everyone is invited. With the diminutive audience entertained by Storytime with Auntie Amber, the grownups can catch a breath and enjoy a treat from a Townhall vendor – one that they might not even need to share. Swap war stories and share valuable intel with folks who know exactly why it took far longer than you could ever imagine to load up the stroller to come. Mondays, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Townhall Social Eatery, 581 Concession St., Hamilton

Plein as Day
The stunningly restored historic Kitchen Garden of Dundurn Castle, which supplies the site’s kitchen with more than 200 heirloom varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers is waiting to also supply some inspo to your artistic talents. The idyllic 1.5-acre garden is open monthly to budding artists looking to brush up on plein air painting – a practice fundamental to Impressionism that focuses on the use of natural light. Bring your own materials, settle into
your spot in the garden, and channel your inner Monet. Regular admission rates apply. Check out the website for dates. Dundurn Castle, 610 York Blvd.

The Cemetery Chronicles
Put down the history book and take a field trip instead to the Hamilton Cemetery, where the poignant setting gives the stories told by the gravestones some reverential gravity. Better yet, join a historical interpreter for a guided walking tour as they recount significant events, pointing out related memorials along the way. Topics include the cholera epidemic, naval disasters and the War of 1812, and with these weighty stories literally afoot, participants will be impressed by the reminder that history happened here. Visit the website for full details and dates. Hamilton Cemetery, 777 York Blvd.

We Ride At Night
Be a bright spot in the darkness by joining the Hamilton Glowriders (“Hamilton’s brightest bicycle gang”) on their monthly group bike ride, held under the cover of darkness. With the goal of promoting safe and legal cycling, the group invites riders of all abilities to join in and light it up. Adorn your bicycle in lights, snap that glowstick, and roll through town with the glittering group on its casually paced, 90-minute ride, sharing the unique perspective on our city that – just like this colourful caravan – only comes out at night. Check out the website for details.

Singing at the Staircase
A thriving cultural centre in Hamilton for years, the Staircase Theatre has hosted all manner of performers during its lifetime, and you and your dulcet tones can now be added to the list. Get those vocal cords warmed up at the monthly Stairyoke Karaoke evenings held in the lounge of the historic building. Thrill the audience with your moves, stage presence and vibrato, and prove that all that singing in the shower was well worth the water. Third Thursday of each month.

All Fired Up
Play With Clay, Locke Street’s interactive pottery studio, wants you to get your hands dirty at one of its drop-in sessions and classes in pottery painting and clay hand-building. Ready to throw your creative hat in the ring? Students can even take a spin on the pottery wheel by booking an hour-long guided lesson. You’ll make a new treasure to take home, and we dare you to refrain from making reference to a certain 1990s film. You know the one.

Shucking School
Oysters can be stubborn little things and knowing how to open one properly (and safely) is one of the universe’s deepest secrets. Fortunately, David Burns, owner of Maisy’s Pearl Oyster Bar on Barton Street is passionate about the beguiling bivalve and eager to share his knowledge. In addition to his restaurant and shop, Burns – an award-winning shucker on both a national and international level – offers private classes where he schools students on all things oyster – their health benefits, sustainability, varieties, and of course, the trick to conduct a proper shuck.

A Collective Tour
Since its inception in 2013, Hamilton’s Collective Arts brewery has been a champion of the creativity of craft beer and artists – the culmination of both fitting easily in the palm of one’s hand in the form of their recognizable, colourful cans. Get a peek behind the curtain and learn how Collective Arts was developed from brand to brews, in a 45-minute guided tour. Each guest is provided one pint of beer to wet their whistles and a discount at the retail shop for souvenirs. Saturdays.

Pet Propaganda
If your dog thinks that they are pretty special because they keep your floor crumb-free, you might want tell them about the latest exhibit at the Warplane Heritage Museum. “Even A Dog Enlists” is an encapsulation of the crucial role that animals played in war – both as active participants on the field and as featured figures in the propaganda of the time, when their images were used to increase national pride and enlistment. These heroic animals throughout the Allied countries made a tremendous sacrifice for us all, so all joking aside – give your own furry friend an extra tight hug tonight. Until March 18, Warplane Heritage Museum, 9280 Airport Road, Mount Hope

Pet-ty Fun
Ancaster’s Triple C Farm is a spot quite like no other – an idyllic patch of country heaven that offers sanctuary to a literal menagerie of farm animals. Commune with nature while getting in your furry fix by scheduling a visit to the farm’s petting zoo, and just try to not fall in love with at least one of their charges who, by the way, cannot go home with you. Feeling flexible? Check out the farm’s website for other memorable offerings including animal walks, horseback rides and – no kidding around – goat yoga. Visit the website for full details and to register. Triple C Farm, 500 Carluke Rd. W., Ancaster

Feeling Sketchy 
Do you ever suddenly feel the need to create? Hopefully it happens on a Thursday, when each week visitors are invited to drop in to the McMaster Museum of Art to take part in unguided Sketching Sessions. While surrounded by the museum’s vast collection, budding artists are encouraged to simply sketch, drawing inspiration from the variety of the M(M)A’s works. A little imagination is mandatory, but no registration is required, and neither is preparation – shared art supplies are provided. Thursdays 4:30-6:30, McMaster University

Stories of Migration and Belonging
Hamilton is a diverse and vibrant city thanks to the immigrants who have chosen to come here. Through a video exhibit on immigration produced by the Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council, viewers can learn about the experiences of immigrants and refugees from all over the world who have made Hamilton their home. The project includes video interviews with six immigrants from Italy, China, Ivory Coast, Sri Lanka, Sudan and Ukraine who moved to Hamilton between the 1940s and all the way up to 2023. The exhibit also includes facts about a wide range of historic and current immigration topics.

Innovation Meets Art
Artefact Social and the Hamilton Technology Centre has unveiled a new rotating exhibition space called Art at Seven Innovation. The first exhibition features 32  local artists and showcases about 50 pieces. A range of artists are taking part, from emerging artists to well-known, established artists such as Paul Elia and Cheryl-Ann Hills and exciting new-to-the-area artists such as Joseph Leanage. Hamilton Technology Centre, 7 Innovation Dr., Dundas

Big 80s Energy
Were you fortunate enough to experience the joys of 80s music the first time around (hi!) or were you introduced to the magnitude of its awesomeness at a different time? Either way, fans of that dot on the musical landscape are invited to hit the Casbah’s dance floor on the first Saturday of each month, when DJs Mark and DMurk host their Risky Biz 80s night. The music that came out of that decade was eclectic and revolutionary – and having a monthly celebration of this fact is totally rad. See you there. First Saturdays of the month

Go for A Beer Run
When it comes to exercise, different things motivate different people, and if you are motivated by either a supportive group or beer – or both – Fairweather Brewery has you covered. Open to runners of all abilities, the Fairweather Runners running club meets every Sunday morning for an easy, friendly 5K group run. You’re welcome to head home for a well-earned hot shower afterwards but consider lingering a bit at the brewery instead, bonding with your new gang, swapping stories about your favourite routes, newest gear, and latest injuries. Sundays, 10:30 a.m.

Buoyed by Hamilton
Viewing any city’s skyline from the water is a magical thing: the new nautical perspective provides a mysterious, almost storybook vantage point. Our Hamilton is no different, and when viewed from the water, with its industrial, commercial, and residential areas on display in one glance, it’s staggering to see the beautiful scope of what the city offers. Intrigued, but no boat? No problem. Now in its 19th season, The Hamiltonian – a 12-passenger sightseeing vessel – offers a leisurely 50-minute narrated tour of the Hamilton Harbour, where guests earn their sea legs while learning about a different side of the city. Tours depart from Pier 7 docks.

Work As A Group, Individually
Being an artist can sometimes be a solitary endeavour, yet at the same time, creativity breeds creativity. With this dichotomy in mind, the Youth Art Collective regularly welcomes young artists 14+ to come together to share their skills and hone their craft with like-minded cohorts at art-making meetups. The casual drop-in events are offered each month at the Art Gallery of Hamilton, and offer a welcoming and inspiring space for sketching, painting and creating en masse. 6:30-9 p.m., Art Gallery of Hamilton

A Moment At The Mic
Have a song, comedy set or poem you’re itching to debut, but no audience? The Staircase is ready to provide one for you at its monthly open mic nights. Performers simply need to sign up for a 10-minute time slot upon arriving and then wait for their chance to take the cozy stage. Relay Coffee is in the house providing coffee and snacks, so expect a fully caffeinated and alert crowd cheering you on in the welcoming air of the theatre. Check out the website for details and more dates. Wednesdays, The Staircase

Tree For All
Get up to something new this spring at Treetop Trekking at the Binbrook Conservation Area. Visitors looking for a bit of adventure can test their skills – and bravery – on an array of suspension bridges, Tarzan swings, or zip lines that promise to offer more than the usual walk in the park. Rest assured that the younger crew is not left behind in the trees, as a lower-to-the-ground course is available for visitors five to eight years old. For a more reflective visit with less screaming, the park will also offer a forest bathing experience, where participants are led by a certified forest therapy guide who will help them connect with nature, and themselves, on a new, deeper level. Binbrook Conservation Area.

Hiding in Hamilton
When you’re searching for a new activity to do with your pals, family or even co-workers, look no further than Hamilton Hopper – an app-lead scavenger hunt by Let’s Roam. Available in cities all over the world, the 90-minute to two-hour hunts are equal parts tour and game, each customized to the number and ages of participants. and are a perfect way to have fun and get the competitive juices flowing. With an assortment of challenges popping up along the way – those that are photo-based are quite literally “a picture or it didn’t happen” – the tours offer a perfect opportunity to seek out, and hopefully find, some new aspects of the city that have been hiding in plain sight this whole time.

If you have an event happening in Hamilton and Burlington you would like to see listed here, email meredith@hamiltoncitymagazine.ca.