Cassandra Betts

Part of what keeps Smailes loving his job is the opportunity to learn something new and different every day. “You only have to go talk to a researcher about what they’re working on, and their excitement is infectious.”

Vancouverites don’t need a time turner to thumb through a first edition printing of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Instead, any muggle or wizard can head down to the basement of Irving K. Barber Library to see the book themselves.

Culture at the Centre, a collaborative exhibit at the Museum of Anthropology, brings together the work of five Indigenous cultural centres and six nations. Its March opening showcased this attitude of partnership with a collection of performances and speeches by the communities involved.

Through a combination of impressive acting, thoughtful set design and eerie sound effects, UBC Theatre creates an engaging and disturbing production of one of America’s most well known plays.

Virago Nation is a group of female warriors who are challenging stereotypes about Indigenous women and sexuality one burlesque performance at a time.

When the cast and crew of She Kills Monsters met for the first time, they were not themselves. With the help of five Dungeon Masters, two pounds of multi-sided dice and dozens of character sheets, they become paladins, mages and heroes in the fantastical world of Dungeons and Dragons.

A showcase of animated short films from around the world, the night was both entertaining and thought-provoking. It successfully brought together visually diverse pieces that each convey a different message and mood. The show was cohesive, and the films flowed into one another well.

Begin with the quest for a husband. Combine with a meddlesome stepmother, menacing suitor, mischievous girl, and three dashes of miscommunication, and the result is a typical 19th century drama.