COVID CAN’T STOP UP HERE

Once again the team at Up Here is poised to exceed your expectations with digital offerings amid the pandemic! We might not be able to get weird together this year but we can still make the most of it from the safety of home. From porketta bingo, gym class to panel discussions the crew have a packed weekend ready for you. Of course, the weekend wouldn’t be complete without music, you’ll be able to catch intimate live performances from; Julie Katrinette, Melanie St-Pierre, Bryden Gwiss, Jor’Del Downz, Patricia Cano and Salted Wounds. This is in addition to FIVE new murals that are already underway and SIX new power-up boxes by local artists. Make sure you get in on the action!

Pop-up Sessions – Ongoing August 13^th – 18^th

Although live shows might be out this season the Up Here crew has made to include some programming to tickle your earbuds. Following their commitment to weird shows in unexpected places from August 13^th – 18^th you can expect to see surprise streamed performances from some of your favourite local acts. Stay tuned for intimate performances by folk songstress Julie Katrinette, indie-rocker Melanie St-Pierre, Juno-nominated electronic artist Bryden Gwiss, rapper, and singer Jor’Del Downz, Peruvian-Canadian powerhouse Patricia Cano and crust punks Salted Wounds. The locations will be revealed as the sessions are released on the festival’s Facebook and YouTube channels.

White Walls Say Nothing / Free Screening – August 14^th & 15^th

Join Up Here at the freshly reopened Indie Cinema for a thought-provoking film and discussion with panel artists. White Walls Says Nothing explores the political and social impact of public art through the lense of Buenos Aires murals. Filling blank walls and empty spaces with public art is a way to depict discontent as well as a brighter future. It can paint a picture of the history of the area through the artist’s vision. Stick around after the film for a panel discussion with visiting and local Up Here muralists.

Rock’n’Robics with Ms. Holub / For Kids! – Saturday August 15^th @ 12PM

Get in on nostalgic gym time fun with Ms. Holub’s Rock’n’Robics! Born from the need for Holub to find a way to keep students moving during COVID-19 her videos have become a hit! Learn how to sweat in small places, imitate your favourite farm animals, and try out your silliest dance moves. This one is geared for the kiddos but if you’re up for a giggle we recommend giving it a try.

Super Big Yummy Porketta Bingo! – Saturday August 15^th @ 5PM

What could be more quintessentially Sudburian than porketta bingo! It’s a tried and true favourite and after 5 long months of isolation, Up Here knows you’ve got a hunger that only be satiated by a hearty serving of savoury porketta. They’re taking the game online this time, play along live with your digital set of cards, if you win call in and your one pound prize will be on its way. This exciting isolation approved event is in collaboration with the fine folks at Spacecraft Brewery.

Black Art Matters — Virtual Panel Discussion – Sunday August 16^th @ 1PM

Tune in via Facebook and Youtube live to an important conversation about the experiences of Black people in the arts. The panel discussion with be moderated by Shana Calixte, Public Health Manager, Thornloe University professor, and experienced activist. Three outstanding Black female artist-academics will share their personal experiences and thoughts with the hopes to educate and enlighten allies. The virtual panel will feature freelance artists and M.Arch graduate Sonia Ekiyor-Katimi, George Brown Theatre School singer, dancer, and actor extraordinaire Ruthie Nkut and Laurentian Psychology grad, lifetime dancer and choreographer Simisola Tayo.