The Monsoon Festival of the Performing Arts is celebrating 10 years this year with everything from photography exhibits to plays to stand-up comedy to bhangra dance lessons.
The arts festival will take place Aug. 7 to 17 at a variety of venues, including The Cultch in East Âé¶¹´«Ã½Ó³»and the Surrey Arts Centre.
"Help nurture the creative power within the South Asian community by attending events, learning about the artists and their processes, and experiencing a stunning range of creative practices," describe fest organizers South Asian Arts Society in a media release.
This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the South Asian Arts Society. Monsoon's programming kicks off on Aug. 7 with an opening reception at the Cultch, looking back at the history of both the festival and the society.
This year also features . It's taking the stage in Surrey, but it was written about Vancouver.
"I wrote this show as a love letter to South Van — for the people I grew up with, and the ones I looked up to. The ones who showed me what it meant to be a man. The ones who loved me, even if they couldn’t say the words," said playwright Andy Kalirai.
The festival features events both in English and Punjabi, and includes theatre performances, a photography exhibit, workshops, and a stand-up comedy show.
When: Aug. 7 to 17, 2025
Where: Various locations in Âé¶¹´«Ã½Ó³»and Surrey
Cost: Events range from free to $39.