Local Arts

Definitely Diva is as much fun as their name. The trio is all about chocolates and wine - it's the attitude that counts, according to Lynne Dickson, diva extraordinaire.

The senior students from the Dance Works Academy opened their Friday evening show, Excerpts, with an acting showcase under the direction of Edie Inksetter.

The name may be unfamiliar: Kathaumixw, (pronounced ka-thow-mew), is a Coast Salish word that means a gathering of different peoples, but the event is renowned among music fans.

An exhibition of the work of First Nations artists is timed to appear around National Aboriginal Day on Saturday.

In the past, the annual recital of the Coast Academy of Dance (CAD) could last for many hours - not a surprise from a school that fields some 300 students. This year, the recital was divided into two shows, to reduce its length.

The province's coffee tables will receive a gorgeous boost this week with the launch of British Columbia: Spirit of the People, the celebratory book by Harbour Publishing honouring the province's 150th anniversary.

The Coast Jazz Quintet, founded by violinist/trumpet player Blaine Dunaway, was created in 2006 in a meeting of like minds, all sharing a love for improvisation and jazz.

The fifth annual Pender Harbour Blues Festival brought local and outside talent together for its best year yet, each act as different as the blues can be.

Knowledge and appreciation of classical music received a boost last week with the announcement of eight young Sunshine Coast musicians who received scholarships from the Coast Recital Society (CRS).

After an uncertain future following the 2007 event, organizers of the Bonfire Music Festival have announced the event's return for 2008. The festival, three days of music, camping and celebration, is set for Aug. 22 to Aug.