The Top 5 Things To Do This Week

The city seems to have emerged from the eerie cloud of fog that hung over most of Vancouver for the past few weeks. We're now just into the second month of 2009, and with the stumbling economy, guilt over breaking New Years resolutions, and post Christmas blues upon many of us, it may just be time for a break. Check out a metal or classical concert, boats on display, figure skating or art appreciation; there are plenty of fun things to do in and around Vancouver this week:

Monday, February 2, 2009 – Cradle Of Filth

Cradle of Filth comes to the Commodore Ballroom tonight to play songs from their latest CD, Godspeed on the Devil's Thunder. Their first album was released in 1994 (The Principle Of Evil Made Flesh), and they've gone on to release 7 more full-length albums, two EP's, two compilation albums and a live disc. While their music has always had gothic, symphonic influences, band members haven't stayed so constant: vocalist Dani Filth is the only original member. The show starts at 8:00 p.m. with guests Satyricon and Septic Flesh. Get tickets for $35 at ticketmaster.ca.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009 – Borodin Quartet

Friends of Chamber Music presents the Borodin Quartet at the Vancouver Playhouse (Hamilton St.at Dunsmuir St.) at 8 p.m. Formed in 1945, the quartet has changed members but has kept their unique tradition of Russian repertoire and legendary interpretations. Tickets are $40/15, and you can order by phone at 604-684-2787 ($2.50 will be charged for all phone orders). See friendsofchambermusic.ca for ticket and event information.

Wednesday, February 4 , 2009 – The ISU Four Continents Figure Skating Championships 2009

The ISU Four Continents Figure Skating Championships 2009 brings together competitors from four continents to compete in Vancouver at the Pacific Coliseum (100 N Renfrew Street) until February 8. The event begins at 1:00 p.m., and the opening ceremonies take place at 5:00 p.m. on the ice. There is over $250,000 in cash prizes to be awarded to competitors, and winners also earn points towards the World Standings. To see the competitors list and schedule, go to isu.org.

Thursday, February 5, 2009 – Toni & Guy's World Art Revolution

Support a great cause at the Penthouse Nightclub (1019 Seymour St.) tonight for the Toni & Guy World Art Revolution fashion show. Win door prizes, get gift bags, and spend the evening enjoying fashion, music and dancing. The proceeds for the event go to Beauty Night, a nonprofit organization that provides wellness programs to marginalized youths and adults. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m. You can buy tickets at any Toni & Guy location, and get more information by emailing vancouver@toniguy.com.

Friday, February 6, 2009 - Vancouver International Boat Show

Whether you've got the cash to be checking out your next boat for the summer, or are only able to dream, the Vancouver International Boat Show will have over 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest boats and marine products at BC Place Stadium (777 Pacific). The show continues until February 8, and tickets are $22/13/11. You can find exhibit and location info at vancouverboatshow.ca.

Saturday, February 7, 2009 – Circle Craft

The Circle Craft Shop & Gallery on Granville Island will host a number of student scholarship recipient exhibits. Until March 3, check out featured artists like  Margaret Matsuyama, Emily Carr Institute of Art & Design, Ceramics Program; Corrina Suveges, Capilano College, Textile Arts Program; Erick James, Kootenay School of the Arts, Metal Program; and, Marek Norman, Vancouver Community College, Jewellery Program.

In 2003, Circle Craft Co-Operative started an external scholarship award program to support new and upcoming craftspeople. Circle Craft is in partnership with four BC institutions; Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design, Ceramics; Capilano College, Textile Arts Program; Vancouver Community College, Jewellery Program; and, the Kootenay School of the Arts, Wood/Metal Program. Admission is free to Circle Craft, and the exhibition is on daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. At 1-1666 Johnston St. Net Loft. Email shop@circlecraft.net or call 604-669-8021.

Sunday, February 8, 2009 – Bach & Beyond Series: A Baroque Celebration

Nancy Argenta

The internationally-renowned soprano Nancy Argenta makes her VSO debut at the Chan Centre, along with Victoria Symphony Music Director Tania Miller. Listen to an evening of baroque and chamber music like Muffat Concerto Grosso No.12, Propitia Sydera, Bach Cantata No.209, Non sa che sia dolore, Mozart Il re pastore, K.208: L’amero saro costante, Mozart Voi avete un cor fedele, K.217
Schubert Symphony No.6. Tickets range from $35 to $59, with student, senior and subscriber discounts available. Tickets are only available through ticketmaster.ca or by charge-a-phone at 604-280-3311.