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Transphobia is way too accepted in BC

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Peak Web
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PHOTO: Karollyne Videira Hubert / Unsplash

By: Isabella Urbani, Staff Writer

Content warning: mentions of transphobia.

Institutions give too much power to transphobes. This society has shown it allows and tolerates transphobia. It protects transphobes more than it protects trans people. We need to do better in protecting trans folks because the heteronormative social constructs we live in put them in danger. 

Just last month during a track meet in Kelowna, a grandfather from the bleachers hollered “Hey! This is a girls’ event, why are boys throwing?!” to two nine-year-old girls. The man believed two of the contestants were either “boys or transgender” due to their pixie haircuts. When we make assumptions based on appearances, society begins to regulate how even cisgender bodies should look. This has real-world consequences that puts trans and gender non-conforming people in danger. 

Regardless of whether someone is cis or trans, if a person doesn’t meet these “conventional” standards, they’re vulnerable to transphobes who feel like their sense of security is being challenged. 

Transphobes have close-minded and dichotomous thinking. Anti-trans rhetoric has fueled the narrative that somehow, transgender people are a threat. Birds of a feather flock together. Transphobes find strength in other transphobes, and when they gather enough confidence, they attack. They lash out at people, challenge them in public, and might even use physical force. Just a month ago, an anti-2SLGBTQIA+ rally was held in Guildford, where multiple people were harassed, yelled at, and threatened. Incidents like this are why it’s so crucial that we shut down transphobes.

The man from Kelowna shouldn’t have felt comfortable sizing up these children in the first place, but our society has shown they tolerate this behaviour. He hurt the confidence of those children. A parent of one of the girls said their child was so bothered by what was said, they couldn’t focus on the race, and cried for the rest of the day. The other girl sprinted off the field after the encounter. Ironically, while this man was supposedly acting with the intent of protecting cisgender girls, he harmed them even more due to his ignorance and assumptions on gender presentation. I vividly remember being asked if I was a “boy” in elementary school because I had hair on my arms. To this day, I have to battle myself to wear short-sleeved shirts in the summer for something said to me years ago. 

What does this say about us as a society if people feel comfortable demanding to know or telling people what gender they should be. The fact that transphobes feel comfortable enough to say this, means we’re doing something wrong as a society. Transphobia is rising and it’s not just in the US — it’s here, right in our cities.

Our priorities are completely out of whack. Keep calling out transphobes. Don’t let them believe for a second there isn’t a place for trans people. Take time to reflect on your positionality and your beliefs. Does your opinion actually hold any validity or are you just regurgitating what people have told you? Be better. Do better, and don’t be the reason why a transgender person reroutes their daily life because you’ve shown them that you’re unsafe.

Fusion Festival returns to Holland Park

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Peak Web
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This is a photo of Holland Park. The park has stone courtyard, surrounded by grass and trees.
PHOTO: Wikimedia Commons

By: Saije Rusimovici, Staff Writer

The Surrey Fusion Festival is back in Holland Park this summer on July 22–23. This year’s theme is “Dance Around the World.” Fusion Festival not only provides an opportunity to try various culinary creations, but also celebrates the diversity of the community. The family-friendly event runs from 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. on both days and includes a variety of activities for people of all ages. 

“The Surrey Fusion Festival serves as a vibrant showcase of the diversity within the Surrey community,” said Jenna Kuzemski, senior marketing and events specialist at the City of Surrey. “As a free festival that attracts over 90,000 attendees over two days, it brings together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of unity and community pride.” 

Kuzemski highlights how Surrey Fusion Fest “promotes social cohesion, respect, and celebration of diversity” not only in Surrey, but the entire Lower Mainland. Some of Kuzemski’s favourite aspects of the event are tasting authentic dishes from all around the world, in addition to watching amazing performances throughout the festival. 

Both local and internationally recognized performers take one of nine stages. This includes JUNO award winner D.J. Shub, an Indigenous artist known for his electronic beats. He is just one of several Indigenous performers taking the stage. This lineup also includes Indigenous experimental duo PIQSIQ and Indigenous country singer Don Amero. Also performing are internationally renowned Punjabi artists Gurnam Bhullar and Ikky. Entertainment includes dance performances by V3, a traditional Vietnamese ensemble, Surrey International Folk Dancing Society, Grupo America, Higher Ground Dance Company, and many more. In total, there are over 50 different groups performing over the two days. 

One of the other highlights of Fusion Fest includes a selection of 50 food and beverage pavilions representing a different culture. Select pavilions will also be selling traditional art pieces. Pavilions include delicious food from across different countries including Cambodia, China, Fiji, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Philippines, Ukraine, and more. Beer and wine from around the world will be offered at The Cantina and will be served from 12:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. on both days. 

The Indigenous Village offers the opportunity not only to try out Métis cuisine, but “to learn about Indigenous cultures through education, workshops, cultural sharing, and contemporary performances.” The Indigenous Market offers handmade artwork and crafts created by local Indigenous artisans. 

Other activities include amusement rides presented by Shooting Star Amusements, including favourites like the Zipper, the Spider, Zero Gravity, and many more. Several bouncy castles will be set up around the park for kids. Admission to the event is free, and ride tickets are available for purchase on-site. There will also be free face painting and kids’ crafts provided by the Downtown Surrey BIA. 

For more information about Fusion Festival, visit their website at surreyfusionfestival.ca.  

Course enrollment chaos is upon us

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Peak Web
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Illustration of three students sat with each other, looking nervously at their laptops.
ILLUSTRATION: Alyssa Umbal / The Peak

By: Hailey Miller, Peak Associate

Ah, the sweet smell of course enrollment stress is in the air. The time has come to battle the Hunger Games of registration, “and may the odds be ever in your favour.” Tension rises as you step up to the podium that is your goSFU account, anxiously awaiting the course calendar that appears before your screen. You nervously anticipate any changing results of offered classes and times that may differ from when you last checked the schedule. 

We’re all too familiar with the stress that is enrollment season. The step-by-step process plays on repeat in our minds as the soundtrack to our forthcoming semester preparation, hyped on putting another dent in our degrees and prepared for the chaos that’s hiding around the corner. At least, as prepared as one can be for one of the most stressful times known to every university student’s academic endeavours. It’s not like everything comes down to this exact moment as the outcome of your entire degree depends on the fate that’s led by an intricate course selection. No pressure at all. Seriously, why do you even bother stressing? 

The university sends out their subscription list of emails denoting that course registration is upon us. “Check your enrollment appointment now!” screams through our screens in bold, red letters. The email obnoxiously grants each of us an individualized registration date and time with a large serving of disappointment, and a hefty scoop of anxiety as the cherry on top. As soon as the first warning email is sent out indicating that the course calendar has been published, we jump to it like wild animals ready to catch their prey. 

We’ve been preparing for this moment all semester, every semester. We are well-seasoned course enrollment connoisseurs, equipped to pry class sections out of each other’s course carts before our mouse even has the chance to click “select.” We interrogate and examine the course calendar meticulously, brushing over every detail of prerequisites, corequisites, course sections, scheduled times, and campus locations with a fine tooth comb. 

We plan and prepare, arrange and organize, and hypothesize and theorize every crucial detail that amounts to our near future . . . as if any of it really matters. All our plans come crashing down when our time has come to login with our individualized enrollment  appointments. By then, it’s too late. How vexing of the university to throw a curveball and completely rearrange the course calendar at the absolute last second? 

Of course, it’s always the classes we need that are never offered. That prereq. You’ve been waiting an entire year to take it, and now, it’s vanished into thin air, alongside the corequisite you need with another class. It, by the way, conflicts with another course because the scheduled time has changed . . . again! No point stressing about your upper division credits when the lower division prerequisites won’t be offered until right before you’re ready to graduate. Not to mention the fact that some courses are only offered once a year. As if administration would ever consider running a popular course that’s in high demand more frequently, because obviously that’s too much to ask.

If you’re lucky enough that your classes miraculously lineup and don’t conflict on one campus, they sure as hell will conflict with another. Side note, since each campus is in a completely different city, it takes a literal eternity to transit between them, so if you were considering taking two courses on two different campuses on the same day, don’t.

All you can do is let the chaos unfold and await the registration results that are about to ensue. So, good luck, and may the best enrollment appointment win.

Fireworks aren’t worth the damage

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Peak Web
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Red fireworks in the sky
PHOTO: Mio Ito / Unsplash

By: Petra Chase, Arts & Culture Editor

I’ve never been one to get excited for fireworks. While a lit up sky can be a magical sight, I can’t get past the harm fireworks cause for wildlife and the environment. I can think of so many other beautiful things that don’t require shooting toxic contaminants into the atmosphere. Thriving landscapes, for instance, are taken for granted when we coat the sky in chemicals. Ironically, the customary display of fireworks on Canadian and American “independence” holidays enforces colonialism through the continued abuse of stolen land, because fireworks destroy the environment.

Stanley Park, home to diverse wildlife and plant life, has hosted Vancouver’s annual festival of lights every summer since 1990. For half an hour of “oohs” and “ahhs,” each firework display releases a host of chemicals along the shore, above our vulnerable land and aquatic ecosystems. These chemicals can be deadly when ingested by wildlife. When fireworks are shot into the sky, nitric oxide and sulphur dioxide mix with oxygen and water, resulting in acid rain, which transports the residue to other areas. The multitude of chemicals left by fireworks can also be easily absorbed by plants and can affect animal development. 

I’m able to enjoy the sight of fireworks from far away, however, being prone to sensory overload, up close the loud sounds puts me into fight, flight, or freeze mode. This means my body physically reacts as if it’s in danger. The sudden crackles and bright flashes may be distressing for anyone who experiences sensory processing issues, including epilepsy, and those who have post traumatic stress disorder from war or gun violence.

For animals, these loud busts in the sky also cause distress and disorientation. Wildlife in the area may abandon their young and “run into busy streets or fly into buildings,” which can be deadly. Pets and farm animals may also injure themselves in an attempt to escape the terrifying noise. A pet may even bite their owner. The terrifying environment causes animals to act out of character.

Fireworks also deteriorate air quality, and their particulate matter can cause lung and heart problems. Delhi recently implemented a ban on fireworks to reduce pollution, after festive Diwali celebrations resulted in a toxic haze over the city — the smokiness in the air considered “the most hazardous air pollutant, due to its ability to affect people’s lungs and heart, along with causing environmental damage.” Similarly, in 2022, Beijing introduced a ban on fireworks that led to a stark improvement in air quality. 

Fireworks have long been customary in many cultural celebrations around the world, an activity known to bring people together. However, it makes sense for tradition to change with time. 

Thankfully, BC law limits fireworks to special public functions, and issued a temporary ban on fireworks altogether as wildfires spread across the province. This is a step in the right direction. However, the fact that it took such extreme, urgent measures to only temporarily ban fireworks, despite all the other known long-lasting consequences, demonstrates irresponsibility. Looking ahead, activists have been calling for drone light shows to replace fireworks. This is a worthwhile consideration to eliminate the loud and hazardous aspects of the tradition — but I still think we should refrain from celebrating on colonial holidays.

105 Keefer’s housing project ignores Chinatown’s concerns

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Peak Web
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Photo of 105 Keefer St in Chinatown
PHOTO: Amirul Anirban / The Peak

By: Kelly Chia, Editor-in-Chief

Chinatown was one of the first places my family visited after we had immigrated to Canada. I remember taking in the scent of freshly baked pineapple buns, picking out dried plum candy with my mom at the herbal shops, and admiring the Pokémon cards in the game store at Centre A. My parents would buy some juicy barbeque pork while chattering with the supermarket clerk, who would be just as genial to me, like we were all old friends, not strangers who had just met that day. As we found our footing in this country, Chinatown provided a critical community that nourished me. It’s nourished many migrants like me since they were forced to self-segregate in this area since the 1800s. For so many of us, Chinatown represents and holds a rich history of protest. It uplifts a community that continues to be economically and racially oppressed. This last part is key: Beedie’s proposed apartment building on 105 Keefer Street blatantly threatens and bulldozes the wishes of an already vulnerable community. 

The city’s approval, after years of rejecting the proposal, is completely cowardly. Beedie’s proposed 9-storey condominium had previously been rejected because the Board felt the community hadn’t been consulted on how to make the site fit the cultural character of the area. These concerns have not been mitigated. While the seniors of Chinatown have continually asked for social housing, city planner Theresa O’Donnell said the Board has no power to require it. Further, she said they cannot require a “below-market rental” price, either. She added the Beedie development can make the space more “welcoming.” Adding more social housing, not luxury apartments, would help many low-income residents in this area. Non-profit societies and governments provide rent supplements to families. So I ask: welcoming? For who?

O’Donnell certainly can’t be talking about the senior residents of Chinatown, who wouldn’t be able to afford to live in this new building. Urban planner Louisa-May Khoo researched affordable housing in Chinatown — or rather, the lack thereof. Khoo writes that it’s especially important for housing development to consider and accommodate the rapidly aging population in Chinatown, because there are more people there who are lower-income and over 65, in comparison to the City of Vancouver. In the next 20 years, the number of seniors is set to double. According to a census report in 2021, there are about 7,200 seniors older than 55 living in the area, and about 40% of Chinese seniors in the area are over 65 years old. However, Khoo found only 23% of the affordable housing in the Chinatown, Strathcona, and Downtown Eastside areas are designed to accommodate them. Even worse, 4% provide culturally appropriate services for the Chinese seniors in the area. 

Beedie’s proposal solves none of these issues. It proposes instead to bring an unaffordable, 9-storey luxury condominium, claiming this will help revitalize the area, when it’s a blatant effort to push out the most vulnerable citizens of Chinatown. This building could not be more of a flagrant slap to the face to Chinatown residents, who have protested against the Beedie development for years. COVID-19 has deeply aggravated the financial insecurity of residents in the area, as businesses continue to recover from the impacts of aggressive anti-Asian vandalism. Of course, the development does not propose to provide low-income senior housing or cultural spaces, as the residents have been asking for since the proposal was first brought onto the table. Instead, residents are kicked out of foyers and plazas trying to find accessible places to exercise. 

Kung Ku Yang, who has been living in Chinatown for two decades, said his exercise group struggles to find space in an interview with The Tyee. Recently, they were kicked out of Chinatown Plaza due to “noise complaints.” However, the area proved ideal to seniors because it provided seating and air conditioning. “A manager came out to tell us that we couldn’t use the space. Our leader asked why not, because people come in here to hang out all the time. The manager called the police and told us to leave,” he told The Tyee. Other residents shared their concerns with the lack of social housing, especially since there are plenty of waitlists in Chinatown. “It’s an important location for Chinatown,” Yang said about the 105 Keefer development site. “Seniors and low-income people need more housing, and at least one or two floors of space to do activities,” he explained. Again, this situation boils down to the development being skin-deep in its claims to revitalize the area. 

Why wouldn’t the residents protest yet another effort to displace them, to sanitize and gentrify the streets with vapid fusion restaurants and postcard-pretty tourist sights?

Chinatown residents are rightfully still protesting, showing the power of their community. Why should this proposal go forward when there have still been little to no efforts on the government’s part to take care and provide affordable housing for the seniors that they’ve segregated? Why wouldn’t the residents protest yet another effort to displace them, to sanitize and gentrify the streets with vapid fusion restaurants and postcard-pretty tourist sights?

Did you know that so-called Vancouver’s Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in Canada? Some of our oldest buildings in this city were made into benevolent associations in the 1800s, to provide crucial communal support in a time where residents had to rally together for their rights. This is the true Chinatown that is “welcoming” — the one city planners should be fighting to protect. Chinatown isn’t a relic for wealthy folks to admire or take pit stops in the culture while luxury condominiums alienate our most vulnerable. This area contains the real residents who’ve taken care of each other, surviving every effort to push them out. They stand, yet again, against those who wish to erase the heart and soul of the beautiful, hard-earned communities that continue to be nurtured and guided by our elders. 

This project seems like yet another effort to displace seniors that have historically been economically segregated to this area. There are still people here that need to be prioritized, the ones who are responsible for creating the cultural heritage of Chinatown, that are being displaced. Vancouver needs to fight harder to protect this cultural heritage, to acknowledge the poverty and seniors, and prioritize them in new projects.

Any real potential that developments on this site has must start with community consultation. Groups like the Vancouver Tenants Union and Chinatown Today have already suggested the obvious: that this site be alternatively used to provide culturally appropriate and affordable senior housing. Our seniors deserve spaces to simply exercise, and to live their lives: this shouldn’t be a difficult consideration. Hours of speeches from Chinatown residents protesting 105 Keefer should tell us that the current proposal doesn’t accommodate them. Our elders deserve to have spaces for their activities that they can easily travel to, businesses that they’ve known for decades — not be outpriced by gaudy boutiques. We shape a new future with this community by actually consulting with and acknowledging their needs.

Why are we okay with projects targeting newcomers? Chinatown isn’t a museum, a relic of the past to admire from tourists. It contains the beating heart of a neighbourhood that has survived despite continual efforts to push them out.

Committee nominations and elections occur for new working committees

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This photo is of the SFU stadium at the Burnaby Campus. The stadium is empty but it is a sunny day.
PHOTO: Krystal Chan / The Peak

By: Eden Chipperfield, News Writer

On July 5, The Peak attended the bi-weekly Simon Fraser Student Society (SFSS) Council meeting. Business discussed during the meeting included elections for council-led committees, a notice of motion, and updates from a conversation with SFU president Joy Johnson regarding the TSSU strikes. 

Councillors are nominated for committee elections

The purpose of the elections was to nominate Council members to lead and organize specified committees, including the members meeting planning committee, the Vancouver Council committee, the first-year engagement committee, and the governance committee. Each committee had three rounds of nominations, and all nominated councillors were voted into the position with no dissent. Each elected member will serve their working committee for the rest of the Council term, ending April 2024. 

As of July 5, the members meeting planning committee is responsible for planning the annual executive and general meeting of the societies, as per the society act for SFSS’ bylaws and policies. The responsibilities include planning the public forum, consisting of bylaw changes, connecting with membership and having auditors go over finances. Two councillors were nominated and elected into the committee: data science councillor, Jennifer Huang, and Indigenous studies student union councillor (ISSU), Evan Accettola. 

The next election nomination was for the Vancouver Council committee, which focuses on the student experience at the Vancouver campus. The elected councillors are film student union councillor, Sofia Badzio, and ISSU councillor, Evan Accettola. 

The first-year engagement committee, which coordinates activities and engagement for first-year students, elected behavioural neuroscience student society councillor, Aarthi Srinivasan, vice president external, Nancy Brar, and vice president of equity and sustainability, Priyanka Dhesa. President Liam Feng said, “I was on the first-year committee last year; it’s quite fun. You are going to be the SFSS’ face for all the new-coming students.”  

The last election that took place was for the governance committee, which focuses on SFSS Council policies and makes recommendations to the Council relating to committee terms of reference and SFSS constitutions, bylaws, and Council policies. They elected gender, sexuality, and women studies councillor, Ashley Flett, and molecular biology and biochemistry councillor, Sam Killawee. As the vice president internal, Leonarda Ognjenovic was elected to the committee by default. It is mandatory for the vice president internal to be on the governance committee. 

Notice of motion for absent councillor voting brings about debate

A notice of motion was introduced that calls for the stipend reduction of councillors who are absent from voting. Meaning, if a Council member is absent during roll call for their vote, without informing the chat of their motion, they will be assumed absent and therefore not fulfilling their role as a representative. Thus, a $25 stipend reduction will be implemented for every absentee vote. 

The notice of motion was met with concern from Feng as he listed various reasons why an individual may be absent from voting, including using the washroom during the vote or stepping away momentarily. There was much debate among councillors. Flett commented, “The motion intends to increase Council engagement because it does suffer when people miss votes.” However, they clarified they did not believe a financial penalty was acceptable. 

Philosophy councillor Nava Karimi suggested Council track consistent absentee votes on a list for further discussion, and each individual case should be taken case by case. The notice of motion will be readopted in a future meeting. 

SFSS president gives updates from SFU president on TSSU strikes

Feng gave an update on a conversation he had with SFU president, Joy Johnson regarding the TSSU strike. “We talked quite a bit about the TSSU conflict with SFU at the moment, basically they’re still at a stand still from the SFU side,” Feng said. According to Feng, SFU “don’t see it feasible giving into TSSU demand, it looks like it might drag on for a while longer.”  

Reasons for the TSSU strike include compensation for increasing classroom sizes, mental health coverage, and keeping up with the rising cost of living. The Peak previously reported that  SFU has yet to offer conditions that meet TSSU’s demands, meaning the strike will continue indefinitely. 

The Peak is actively covering the movements of the TSSU strike, as it is an ongoing event.

Moooooom, Mark is trying to overshadow me again!

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Two little boys fight on a green field. One of them is wearing a Twitter hat, and the other is wearing a Meta shirt.
ILLUSTRATION: Hailey Gil / The Peak

By: C Icart, Humour Editor

Somewhere in the world, a vocal misogynist takes a break from tweeting about spaceships to call his mommy. 

No, Mom, I’m not going to do the breathing exercises you sent me the other day; I’m going to fight him! Yes, literally. I’m a man! What are you talking about, I’m too old for this? I tweeted at him to challenge him to a cage fight. What do you mean, have I been training? Didn’t you just say you liked my tweets? I tweeted photos of me training with Lex Fridman. He’s a black belt. 

Mom, I don’t need you to remind me Mark has been training for longer and is likely in much better shape than I am. What I actually need is for you and Dad to stop telling the press you don’t think I can win this fight. It’s fucking embarrassing, Mom!

And anyways, he owes me! Before I started making the news for all the fantastic improvements I’ve been making at Twitter, he was the one in the hot seat. Yeah, remember “The Facebook Papers?”

And what does he do? Launch Threads? That’s not even a creative name! Clearly, he stole that from me. You know what? He probably hired some of the over 6,000 people I fired, and they helped him copy me. And that’s what I told my lawyer, so we can sue.

Sure, they have no ads and stuff, but on Twitter, people get to see my dank memes, and people love those, right? I mean, you are liking my memes, right, Mom?

No, Mom, I’m not going to wash my mouth with soap. I called him a cuck, and I would do it again! What else am I supposed to do when Wendy’s is on Threads being buddy-buddy with him and not me? Ugh! You don’t get it. It doesn’t make any sense. We both hoard wealth, don’t pay enough taxes, and are making record profits while watching all the poor people complain about inflation. Sure, I’ve tweeted out misinformation and right-wing talking points, but his algorithm helped far-right sources get more engagement! So, why are people rooting for him and not me? Why do people like him more than me? There’s already 100 million people on Threads . . . Is it because I’m not cool anymore?

Whatever, I have to go . . . people are starting to remember that the debris from my rocket is destroying a wildlife refuge in south Texas. I have to tweet a photo of a car or something to distract them.

Horoscopes July 24 – 30

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Peak Web
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An illustration of a girl with long flowing hair. Astrological signs and stars shine around her.
ILLUSTRATION: Marissa Ouyang / The Peak

By: Alex Ileto, Peak Associate

Aries
Thwip! Welcome to your Spiderverse era. Just like Miles, prepare to battle your parallel universe counterparts (AKA your inner demons) who are much cooler and more successful than you are. The alternate universe where you took up a career in the medical field that your mom always wanted you to pursue? Wham! Kapow! The alternate universe where you married Momo from TWICE? Bam! This week, put all those “what-if” scenarios to the test. 

Taurus
Embrace your inner superhero, The Flash, by making lightning-fast decisions that you probably needed to sit on longer) and sprint head first into friend group drama that shouldn’t really concern you! Alternatively, run away from all your problems! Zoom zoom!

Gemini
Have you been putting off goals this entire year because of yada yada yada? Embrace your inner Transformer and transform. Revive your Pinterest account from Grade 8, hit leg day at the on-campus gym (if you can brave the lack of AC and the lingering smell of sweat), and get onto productivity TikTok where 35-year-old men yell at you for wasting your time on people who aren’t at your level of intellect.

Cancer
You’re a Barbie girl, in your Barbie world. Say hello to your Barbie era. Get ready for all your wishes to be granted, all your houseplants to thrive, and all your days to be filled with impromptu musical numbers (with rehearsed choreography, of course). So strap on those rollerblades and act as if you come home to a Barbie Dreamhouse every day because life will truly be so fantastic.

Leo
An old fling will soon re-enter your life. Like in Past Lives, you will experience an upsetting array of confusing moments that will make you question every past decision you have made. If you don’t want to be bothered by your past, I suggest finding a new hyper fixation such as K-Pop-stanning, sticker collecting, and bouldering.

Virgo
Out with the old, in with new. Time to find some new friends! Kidnap a campus raccoon, uproot a tree, snatch a buff father and find a woman with green skin (good luck on that one) to assemble your very own Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired squad. Venture to the rest of the galaxy with your newfound friends to ignore the very real problems back at home.

Libra
Darling it’s better, down where it’s wetter (said no one ever). With the recent horror story about the Titan Submersible and the concerning reports of E. coli infested water in Vancouver, maybe it’s best to stay away from any body of water for now. So ignore that silly crab from The Little Mermaid — take it from me and stay dry.

Scorpio
Lately, you’ve been really uptight, so set aside some time in the week to let loose and have fun. Like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, it’s time to bring back the gang again for a wild night out. Maybe go clubbing at Levels and bump into high school classmates that finally escaped the suburbs. Alternatively, have a night in, eating pizza with the gang. 

Sagittarius
Time to slay (literally and figuratively) like the doll, M3GAN from M3GAN. Just like M3GAN, spend the next week confronting those who have wronged you, haunt those who you want to get a rouse out of, and show off your dancing abilities during surprise dance battles. 

Capricorn
Congratulations! You’ve entered your Oppenheimer era! Now is the time to give into destructive tendencies. Use your brain power to show the world what you’re made of. You’ll have a blast.

Aquarius
A summer adventure awaits. Take inspiration from Indiana Jones and go on an adventure through nature. Vancouver is known for its amazing outdoor adventures, so pick one and head out! Explore the river rapids up in Squamish, go stand-up paddle boarding in Belcarra, and trek through the Chief. Trust me, you will be whip-ped by the outstanding views. 

Pisces
Have you heard of the movie, The Mother? Me neither, but I’m running out of Summer movies to reference! Based on the title and the fact that Jennifer Lopez plays the main character, I’m assuming it’s a movie about being a queen. So act like JLo this week and keep on mother-ing.

Summer Snack Quiz

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Illustrations of summer fruit
ILLUSTRATION: Emily Xu / The Peak

By: Hana Hoffman, Peak Associate

Question 1: Which excuse are you most likely to use when you’re late?

  1. I am never late. Don’t believe me? Make plans with me and you’ll see.
  2. Every time I arrive on time, no one is there yet! What’s the point if I get no validation?
  3. The bus was delayed 25 minutes due to light rain. I literally checked Google Maps before leaving and it was supposed to come on time, but I guess those tires couldn’t handle some H2O. Shame on them.
  4. My electric scooter melted in the hot sunlight so I had to walk.

Question 2: What kind of shoes do you normally wear in the summer?

  1. Runners. I can’t go on jogs in the snowy winters, so why waste nice weather on sleeping?
  2. I wear something different every day. Always being the same is BORING.
  3. My Air Jordans go hard. #W
  4. Flip flops, because at the beach, I constantly have to go in the water to cool off. #hotdamn

Question 3: Which of these games do you like the most?

  1. Apples to Apples.
  2. Wii Sports.
  3. Wii Sports RESORT: I ain’t basic! I’m LUXURIOUS.
  4. Fantage. I’ve always got the hottest outfits at the fashion show.

Mostly 1’s and 2’s: You are the fruit platter! Always bringing something healthy to the table to help the other guests develop a balanced diet. Where would they get their nutrition without you? Vitamin D alone won’t save you!

Mostly 2’s and 3’s: You are the munchies! The casual snack that fits well for any occasion, whether it’s a quick hangout with a couple of friends or a big chaotic family reunion.

Mostly 3’s and 4’s: You are the BBQ chicken wings! You are too hot to handle and you really know how to spice up the party. Hope you’ll never fly away from us!

Numbers all over the place: You are the condiments. You go with everything! Ketchup on fries, cream cheese on fruit, ranch on pizza and salad, bbq sauce on meat . . . you name it. No picnic snack tastes good without you.

Theatre Under the Stars: much to love and room to improve

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Peak Web
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A photo of two characters from Matilda, Mr and Mrs Wormsworth standing on stage in front of an illustrated landscape backdrop. Mrs wormsworth has exaggerated makeup like red cheeks and pale foundation, and fluffy blonde hair. Her arms are crossed and she’s wearing a blue formal dress, staring at Mr. Wormsworth. Mr. Womswoth wears a purple checkered suit, has puffy brown hair and mustache, and has a mischievous look on his face, holding a vintage phone out in one hand.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Emily Cooper

By: Petra Chase, Arts & Culture Editor

Since 1940, Theatre Under the Stars has put on family-friendly plays in Stanley Park’s Malkin Bowl, an outdoor venue equipped with comfortable seating, a commissary kitchen, bar, and emergency ponchos. This season, which runs until August 25, features two high-spirit comedies all about  children and youth uprising. The Prom and Matilda’s stunning sets, synchronized dancing, and boisterous ballads will impress both musical theatre skeptics and Broadway buffs. I had the opportunity to attend and review these highly-anticipated shows.

The Prom

A photo of the cast of The Prom standing on the stage in from of a neon sign that says “prom” Everyone is dressed in sparkle and sequin prom dresses and colourful suits with their fists in the air and joyful expressions.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Emily Cooper

The Prom follows four Broadway stars whose careers are fading from the spotlight, as they ironically embark on a journey to raise their profiles through good deeds. Through Twitter, they find out about Emma, a teen in small-town Indiana. Emma’s high school cancelled prom because she wanted to bring her girlfriend as her date. Worlds collide when they crash a PTA meeting to demand justice.

Full of glamorous costumes and musical numbers, the play is perfect for singing your heart out. In particular, I was impressed by these performances: Matthew Valinho knocked it out of the park as washed-up Broadway star Trent, topping off his energetic renditions with impressive acrobatics. Anna Pontin and Brianna Clark also had beautiful chemistry as girlfriends Emma and Alyssa, making me giddy whenever the “Dance with You” reprise started playing. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention humble Broadway fanatic, Principal Hawkins, played by Kevin Khonje. As a lifelong performing arts lover himself, this lovable character was perfect for Khonje’s acting debut.

While the spirit of the cast kept energies high, the plot dragged on for the second act and the character development felt forced. There are far too many self-absorbed, one dimensional characters — like the Broadway actors chasing fame and the “cheerleader and jock” archetypes. Their change of heart was uninspired and surface-level. As Principle Hawkins sings in his hilarious ode to musical theatre, “We Look to You,” the beauty of Broadway is that “the answer to each problem is to burst into a song.” While this might be true to a certain extent, I would’ve at least liked to root for the supporting characters. At times, you could feel the on-stage chemistry was between the actors, but not the characters.

I liked the eye-catching details on set — the cast changed the sets in character, which was a nice touch. I just wish they’d tweaked the settings of the play to a small Canadian town and a local restaurant chain — I think a lot of kids, especially, would appreciate the reference. 

With the organization recognizing pride this year, I would’ve liked to see better queer representation among the supporting cast. I’m glad The Prom calls attention to some real life struggles of 2SLGBTQIA+ teens. However, some of the stereotypes felt outdated: gay Broadway actor Barry, whose notable traits are being materialistic and self-centred, swoops in to give Emma a prom makeover — a trope I’m tired of seeing. That being said, watch The Prom for the theatrics, the music, and the message of acceptance. The shimmery musical number during the final is joyous.

Matilda

A photo of a group of kids in school uniforms on stage, in a classroom set with desks. They’re all pointing towards a kid in the middle, with expressions of awe on their faces. He’s pointing his fork in the air, with an empty plate in front of him.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Emily Cooper

Matilda, based on the childrens’ book by Roald Dahl, was captivating from start to finish. The quirky dark comedy is about a young girl who uses books as an escape from her neglectful parents, who chastise her for reading. When Matilda and her classmates start school, they’re met with the wrath of children-hating headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. Luckily, there are adults who take the children under their wing — her teacher, Ms. Honey and the school librarian indulge Matilda’s lively imagination and brilliance. Together, the children and adults rise up and fight back.

Everyone involved in the production rose to the challenge of Dahl’s vivid characters and magical stories. The set consists of piles of giant books sprawled across the stage, and spines featuring titles of literary classics. The book cutouts were unexpectedly dynamic, acting as a staircase and bed. Beautifully painted backdrops flipped open like pages, transporting the story in a dreamy way.

I was blown away by the actors, some as young as 11: Siggi Kaldestad captured Matilda’s quiet mischievousness, even as she recited climactic monologues in a British accent and spoke Russian. Preston Culili’s Bruce got everyone in the crowd clapping as he led the kids in the epic “Revolting Children” dance number. The ensemble seemed to be having as much fun as the audience.

The antagonists took on the responsibility of being hateable seriously; Matilda’s ditzy parents and combatant Miss Trunchbull felt like storybook characters come to life. 

You could tell the production put care into every detail, with special effects that caught me off guard and a stand-up bit that broke the fourth wall and resonated with all ages. It’s empowering for child audiences and heartwarming for adults to watch children band together and reclaim their childhood in synchronized song and dance. I left the show wanting to come back and see it again.

Final Thoughts
It would be disingenuous to conclude this review without expressing my disappointment that TUTS is sponsored by real estate corporations, Re/Max and the Beedie Development Group. Beedie’s recently-approved multi-million dollar condo in Chinatown comes after months of protests from Chinatown residents, who are at risk of gentrification and displacement of low-income and senior residents. Their land acknowledgement at the beginning of each play appears performative, as it occurs right before thanking these companies who are commodifying stolen land.

While I had a clear favourite, both shows carried joyous energy in the cast and design, backed by an incredible orchestra under the stage. I wish we got to see and applaud more of the crew and musical team at the end, so they could get a standing ovation, too. I strongly urge Theatre Under The Stars to make better choices next season when it comes to choosing the right sponsors and scripts. They have a huge audience and need to keep in mind who they’re promoting and what kind of messages they’re sending out. That being said, their talent deserves all the attention!

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Simon Fraser University’s independent student newspaper since 1965.

Contact us: [email protected]

© The Peak Publications Society 1965-2024

Simon Fraser University’s independent student newspaper since 1965.

Contact us:
[email protected]

© The Peak Publications Society 1965-2024