PuSh Blog

January 6, 2022: COVID-19 Update

January 06, 2022

Our team at PuSh is working diligently to bring our Festival program to you with health and safety as our utmost priority. 

In accordance with public health orders, all venues at this year’s Festival will be seated at 50% capacity, masks will be worn at all times, and proof of vaccination will be required for entry. 

Where possible, we have enhanced our program with online content. Aalaapi | ᐋᓛᐱ, Born to Manifest and I swallowed a moon made of iron 我咽下一枚铁做的月亮 are all available for online streaming. This year’s Youth Assembly and various Industry Series events will now be held virtually. Our Artist in Residence DBLSPK: 菠蘿麵 Pineapple Bun by Howard Dai will culminate in a hybrid public presentation with an online streaming option. 

Unfortunately, not all of our shows are able to be carried out under the current pandemic situation and public health guidelines. We are sad to say that this has led to the cancellation of two of our shows, The Café and Songs for a Lost Pod. Both productions will be presented at future dates.

Cancelled Performances:

The Café

Unfortunately, current BC COVID-19 restrictions do not allow this type of performance, given that it is situated in a café and involves audience members moving amongst tables. Although the restrictions may be lifted on January 18, the co-producing companies are not in a position to risk completing the work given the possibility that restrictions may be extended, which would force a cancelation. The piece also involves a large cast, and rehearsing at this time does pose some COVID-19 transmission risks

Songs for a Lost Pod

This work, which was to be a world premiere, was about to enter its final stages of creation, including a production residency. Completing a work like Songs For A Lost Pod involves a large group of musicians, singers, designers, directors and technicians, from across the country, all working together on stage over an extended (two week) period. Given the current COVID-19 restrictions and the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant, the artists of Songs For A Lost Pod have regrettably made the difficult decision to not complete the work at this time. This world premiere production was going to be a co-presentation with Music on Main.

With the exception of our Closing Party on February 5th, Club PuSh will be going ahead as sit-down events with cabaret-style seating. 

Art is essential, and, while circumstances require that we adapt certain aspects of our 2022 Festival, we are committed to providing work for artists and arts workers, and moments of transformation, inspiration and communion for you, our audiences. Whether at the theatre or from the comfort of your home, we look forward to connecting you with compelling, thought-provoking performances.”

Gabrielle Martin | Director of Programming, Collaborative Leadership Team

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