Things To Do This Week - Oct. 1- Oct. 8, 2008

With all the current reports of the dismal economy and both Canadian and American national elections heavy on many of our minds, we could all use some good news. How about we celebrate the removal of the toll on the Coquihalla? Put aside arguments about political motivation, budget shortfalls and toll booth job-loss for the moment - it is a plus for those of us who are planning on heading to the Interior next weekend for Thanksgiving. We could also enjoy the return of sunny fall weather, the start of sweater season, or just ease into October with a stiff pumpkin martini.

Thursday, October 2 – Alex Cuba at the Live Sessions

Singer-songwriter Alex Cuba headlines three Thursday performances with a mix of Cuban pop, soul, and rock music in a cabaret-style setting. Alex who you say? Alex Cuba is already internationally known with two Juno Awards to his name and is steadily selling out tours in the US (his song Amor Infinito was also the iTunes Single of the Week in Canada last January). Alex Cuba is performing at the Telus Studio Theatre at 6265 Crescent Road UBC at 5 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and just $10 for students with valid ID, available at www.ticketmaster.ca or 604-280-3311. You can also find info at www.chancentre.com.

Friday, October 3, – Nine Sinatra Songs

Ballet BC combines the music of Frank Sinatra and the elegance of ballroom dance with their latest presentation, Nine Sinatra Songs. From October 2 until the 4, seven couples will perform ballroom dances to Sinatra music, decked out in tuxedos and fabulous gowns by American designer Oscar de la Renta. See it at the Centre for the Performing Arts at 8 p.m. both dates, or take in a tea matinée on October 4 at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $35.75 at www.balletbc.com, or call 604-732-5003 ext. 207 to order.

Saturday, October 4 – Japanese Farmers' Market

Have you ever tried umeboshi, or enjoyed tsukemono? How about kabu, napa or gobo? If you haven't taken in any of these (or worse, if you've never heard of them), you are missing out on some of B.C.'s best produce! These traditional Japanese fruits and vegetables will be on offer, alongside fresh-baked goods and handicrafts, at the Japanese Farmers' Market, happening today from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m in Burnaby. The market will take place at the National Nikkei Museum and Heritage Centre (6688 Southoaks Cres., Burnaby) with all proceeds going to support the museum and heritage centre. Find out more at www.nikkeiplace.org.

Rock Band: Battle Of The Bands

Also on Saturday, Electronic Arts hosts a challenges of Rock Band domination, where teams of four players battle each other for mastery of the popular karaoke-style video game. All proceeds go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of BC and Yukon, and you can win great prizes like an all-inclusive trip to Cuba, a Tom Lee complete Rock Band ensemble, tickets to a Canucks game, and more. The entry fee is $100 per team, and the competition takes place at the Electronic Arts Gaming Studio (4330 Sanderson Way, Burnaby). Register your team and find information at www.rockbandvancouver.com.

Sunday, October 5 – CIBC Breast Cancer Walk

More than 170,000 Canadians in 53 communities across the country will be participating in the CIBC Breast Cancer Walk to raise money to fund breast cancer research, awareness and education. The run or walk is 5k, with a shorter 1k option as well. Starting at BC place, the course winds around False Creek, Chinatown, past Science World and over the Cambie Bridge back to BC Place. Lots of teams dress up, so grab anything pink from your closet, come down and support a great cause, and get some free swag. Register or find out how you can participate at www.cibcrunforthecure.com.

Monday, October 6 – The Unnatural History Of Stanley Park

The Vancouver Museum (1100 Chestnut) is showcasing The Unnatural History of Stanley Park until February 19, 2009. It tells the story of the park's history, plants, people, animals and landmarks and displays souvenirs spanning over 120 years. Visit www.vanmuseum.bc.ca for more.

Tuesday, October 7 – 27th Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF)

Only three more days of VIFF left, so be sure to check out highlights from over 300 films from 60 countries while you have the chance. Ones to watch today are After School, a Japanese thriller and surprise hit with lots of twists (4:30 p.m. at Granville 7), the sombre UK film Hunger about IRA leader Bobby Sands' hunger strike (11 a.m. at Granville 7), and Canadian film Heaven on Earth by Water director Deepa Mehta, about a young bride leaving her home in India to come to Canada (1 p.m. at Granville 7). Find showtimes, ticket prices and theatre locations at www.viff.org.

Wednesday, October 8 – Vancouver International Improv Festival 2008

Nothing beats impending winter blues like a good laugh, so check out the 9th Annual Vancouver International Improv Festival, which brings together groups from all over North America to perform. It's all improv, and you'll see a mix of different comedy companies and performers. Get the schedule at www.vancouverimprovfest.com.