The Top Things to Do in Vancouver This Week

Monday, June 15, 2009 - Vancouver & The Bicycle Revolution

The Museum of Vancouver presents Vancouver & The Bicycle Revolution, on until Sept. 7. From commuters to kids with training wheels, Vancouver is a city of cyclists. The 7,500 square foot exhibition features a map of things like Vancouver's bike commuter routes and secret rainforest trails, portraits of prominent cyclists and their stories, a Love Wall with photos and quotes from passionate cyclists, tours and talks and of course, bikes. Check the Vancouver Museum website.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009 –  A New Brain

Pipedream Theatre Project presents the western Canadian premier of the musical A New Brain, written by William Finn and James Lapine. First produced at the Lincoln Centre in New York City, it's an uplifting, loosely autobiographical story of Finn's experience with arteriovenous malformation of the brain. Most of the songs were written by Finn after his release from the hospital. Showtimes: June 16-20 at 8 pm, and June 20-21 2 pm matinees. Get tickets.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009 – Vancouver Francophone Summer Festival

It's time again for the cultural festival celebrating the music of francophone artists at Le Centre Culturel Francophone de Vancouver (1551 7th Avenue West) until June 24. This year the festival features acclaimed Quebec performer  Robert Charlebois, young performers Les Trois Accords,  the winners of the 2006 Pacifique en chanson competition, Mélonai Brisdon, and workshops by  Jean Pierre Makosso and several other artists. The finale will be the traditional Saint Jean Baptiste Day celebration. Get event schedules and information at Le Centre Culturel.

Thursday, June 18, 2009 –   The Symposium On The Book

This one-day symposium at Simon Fraser University Harbour Centre Campus (55 West Hastings St.) examines many examples of the memoir, from crime writer Sharon Butala to the socially aware memoir of  Leilah Nadir. The cost is $75, and includes six books (one from each author). See the author lineup and get info.

Friday, June 19,  2009 – Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival

First up for this year's Bard on the Beach is The Comedy of Errors, a hilarious tale of two sets of twins separated as infants, who arrive at the same time in the same town. It's a tangle of mistaken identities, misunderstandings and chaos. Bard on the Beach is at Vanier Park until Sept. 26. Find out more by calling 604-739-0559 or visiting Bard on the Beach.

Saturday, June 20, 2009 –  Ride to Conquer Cancer

Former Olympic Medalist and National Cycling Champion of Belgium Axel Merckx has teamed up with the Ride to Conquer Cancer. It's a two day journey from Vancouver to Seattle to raise funds for the BC Cancer Foundation. Find info at Conquer Cancer or see what Axel has to say about the ride on YouTube.

Sunday, June 21, 2009 – Family Summer Solstice Celebration in the Park

This year's theme is Sunshine and Song, featuring guest country Mexico, children's entertainer Charlotte Diamond, Hauka Mannskor (a men’s choir from Norway), and local Tenor Richard Tyce performing a Jussi Bjorling Tribute Concert Sunday. Also check out the Viking Village, food and cultural displays,  Scandinavian crafts,  non-stop stage entertainment, the Finnish Wife Carrying Contest, and a variety of other family activities. The festival takes place Saturday, June 20: 11 am - 8 pm with bonfire and dancing after 8, and Sunday, June 21: 11 am – 4 pm with the Concert at 4 pm. Get a day pass for $5 (under 12 free), concert is $20. The event takes place at the Scandinavian Community Centre (6540 Thomas Street in Burnaby). Call  604-294-2777 for info or the Scandinavian Summer Solstice site.