You just don't get to use the word "swashbuckling" in the context of an author reading often enough.
But that's exactly what the McGill branch of Burnaby Public Library has on offer.
This Friday (June 27), the library is playing host to an author reading with Sebastien de Castell for his book Traitor's Blade.
It's the first book in de Castell's new fantasy series, and it's described as having "swashbuckling action and rapier wit reminiscent of The Three Musketeers, Game of Thrones and Terry Pratchett."
Sebastien and fellow swordplay choreographers will finish the reading with a demonstration of their blades.
Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase (cash only).
It's free, but space is limited, so register online at www.bpl.bc.ca/events, call 604-299-8955 or drop in to the library at 4595 Albert St. to sign up in person.
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Teens are being given a chance to get creative at the Burnaby Public Library.
The library's Bob Prittie (Metrotown) branch is playing host to a new series of creative workshops called Julia's Studio - in memory of the former teen services librarian, Julia Nelson, who passed away last year after a battle with cancer.
Her parents made a gift to the library for the purpose of creating a special program for teens, and this workshop series is the result of that gift.
Each Wednesday in July, teens (those heading into grades 8 through 12) can try out a new art form in a hands-on setting.
On July 2, it's Comics 101. On July 9, it's banner making/urban intervention, with mask making on July 16 and drawing on July 23. The Wednesday, July 30 session will cover songwriting basics.
All levels of artistic ability are welcome.
Teens can register for more than one session, but space is limited.
Check out all the details at www.bpl.bc.ca/teens and follow the link under Programs and Events.
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Here's another one for teens from the library.
The Tommy Douglas branch of Burnaby Public Library is offering a Teen Screen series, with movie showings for youth in grades 8 to 12.
On Thursday, July 17, it's 10 Things I Hate About You, and on Aug. 28, teens can enjoy Jurassic Park.
The Tommy Douglas Library branch is at 7311 Kingsway.
For more on library events, check out www.bpl.bc.ca/events.
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Interested in how the film industry works?
The Burnaby Village Museum is offering a series of filmmaking demonstrations on Saturdays throughout the summer, in connection with its temporary summer display At the Movies.
This weekend (Saturday, June 28), you can check out green screen technology by Sim Digital, running from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Volunteers from the Blanche MacDonald Centre will also be on hand from noon to 4 p.m. to demonstrate special effects makeup - you can try out some beard stubble, lizard skin or perhaps a scab.
On July 5, you can experience special effects makeup or stunt performances - local stunt performers will be on hand to rehearse their scenes and then perform on the streets of the village.
Other demonstrations throughout the summer will include costuming, animal handling and Creating a Character, which will walk through makeup, prosthetics and costumes.
Burnaby Village Museum is at 6501 Deer Lake Ave. Call 604-297-4565 or see www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca for more details.
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Do you know an interesting artist or performer who deserves to be in the spotlight?
We're running a series of "Fill in the Blanks" profiles of interesting local people, and we're always on the lookout for suggestions.
Each participating person just has to fill out a questionnaire to tell us a little more about them, and have a photo taken for the paper.
Please send me your ideas - along with a few details and contact information. You can reach me by email, [email protected], or find me on Twitter, @juliemaclellan.
Do you have an item for Lively City? Send arts and entertainment ideas to Julie, [email protected], or find her on Twitter, @juliemaclellan.
