Live Music Nelson

Zenith
2026-05-28 20:00 - 23:30 (America/Vancouver) | The Royal, 330 Baker Street, Nelson, BC, V1L 4H5, Canada

Open Stage @ Finleys
2026-05-28 20:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-26 20:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-21 20:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-19 20:00 - 23:00 | Finley’s, 705 Vernon St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4G3, Canada
Check out some of the best live and local music on stage at Finley’s
We’ve got everythign you need to come down show us what you’ve got

Mean Girls: The Musical
2026-05-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Capitol Theatre, 421 Victoria St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4K6, Canada
Presented by Black Productions
Based on the hit 2004 film, Mean Girls: The Musical brings the world of North Shore High to life in a high-energy, laugh-out-loud Broadway sensation.
When home-schooled newcomer Cady Heron arrives at a suburban high school, she is quickly drawn into the orbit of the school’s most powerful clique, The Plastics, led by the legendary Regina George. As Cady navigates popularity, power, and identity, she learns that climbing the social ladder comes at a cost.
Featuring a book by Tina Fey, music by Jeff Richmond, and lyrics by Nell Benjamin, this sharp, candy-coloured musical blends biting comedy with genuine heart, explosive choreography, and an infectious pop score.
Bold, hilarious, and surprisingly moving, Mean Girls: The Musical is a must-see theatrical event for fans of the film and newcomers alike.
Creative Team
Director: Darren Fuss
Choreographer: Mackenzie Hope
Musical Directors: Malaika Horswill and Robyn Lamb
Stage Manager: Kyla Hurst
Production Designer: Rachel Winter
Scenic Head: Eric Galbraith
Production Manager: Sydney Black
Ticket Prices
General Admission $42 plus taxes and fees
16 & Under $36 plus taxes and fees
Performance Dates and Times
May 28 to 31, 2026
Evening performances at 7:30 PM
Matinees on May 30 and 31 at 2:00 PM
Runtime
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including intermission.
Mean Girls: The Musical contains mature themes and language that may not be suitable for all audiences. Content includes references to:
• Bullying, social exclusion, and verbal cruelty
• Body image commentary and diet culture
• Sexual language and innuendo
• Depictions of teen relationships and peer pressure
• References to alcohol use
• References to suicide and emotional distress (handled non-graphically)
This advisory is provided to support informed audience choice. If you have questions about content or accessibility needs, please contact Kyla Hurst at the Capitol Theatre Box Office.
Mean Girls: The Musical is presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International, with generous support from Selkirk College and Hall Printing

Shoulder Season Blues Series at Backroads
2026-05-28 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-21 18:00 - 20:00 | Backroads Brewing, 460 Baker St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4H8
Backroads Brewing and Kootenay Blues society presents the Shoulder Season Blues Series every Thursday in may with different local blues performers:
May 7: Jon Burden;
May 14: Mr. A;
May 21: Sam Hurrie;
May 28: Judy Brown

Two Pianos, No Rodeo – A Piano Seance with Blue Rodeo Pianists Mike Boguski and Bob Wiseman
2026-05-27 19:30 - 21:30 | Vallican Whole Community Centre, 3762 Little Slocan South Rd, Winlaw, BC, V0G 2J0
This isn’t a concert.
It’s a piano séance in two acts.
Bob Wiseman and Mike Boguski, two of Canada’s most unpredictable keyboard minds are taking turns dismantling and reimagining what a solo piano set can be. One piano. Two artists. Zero cowboy hats.
THE PLAYERS:
BOB WISEMAN Founding member of Blue Rodeo. Punk pianist. Lo-fi provocateur. Think Monk meets Burroughs at a Toronto dive bar. Expect sound collage, biting satire, sonic left turns. Nothing’s off limits.
MIKE BOGUSKI Current Blue Rodeo pianist. Ambient soul explorer. A master of restraint and reverie. Piano as landscape. Melody as memory. Quiet storms and cinematic swells. Musical cliff jumping.
THE NIGHT:
Each artist takes the same piano and launches in opposite directions – solo, stripped down, wide open.
One piano. Two deeply personal journeys.
No safety net. No genre crutches. No rodeo.
Come for the clash of styles.
Stay for the communion.
This is piano as protest, as prayer or as whatever they feel that night.
“Two Pianos, No Rodeo” is for those who like their art live, unexpected and slightly dangerous. Think of it
less like a show and more like two sonic postcards from different planets sent through the same grand
piano.
$30/ticket, $20 low-income, volunteers get in free.
Link to buy tickets:
https://www.zeffy.com/…/two-pianos-no-rodeo-a-concert
info (at) vallicanwhole (dot) com for more information.

May at Red Light
2026-05-27 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-22 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-20 18:00 - 21:00 | Red Light Ramen, 308 Herridge Ln, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 6G5, Canada
Spring is in full swing, and we are leaning into the season by bringing back Live Music Wednesdays. Mid-week resets are back on the menu every week from 7–9 PM, offering the perfect opportunity to catch local live performances between bowls and conversation.
Our weekend series continues every Friday from 6–9 PM with a rotating cast of selectors. We are also proud to host the opening of a new exhibition by Tanya P Johnson on May 8, with a sonic atmosphere provided by Dubconscious.
Wednesday Live Sessions | 7PM–9PM
May 6: Keegan Schuh
May 13: Tenise Marie
May 20: Jonny Dudar
May 27: Dana Lee
Weekend DJs and Events | 6PM–9PM
May 1: Wabin
May 8: Tanya P Johnson Art Exhibition (Music by Dubconscious)
May 15: N-Deep
May 22: Rosso
May 29: Lorne B
See you there.

Labo Créatif – exhibition and performance
2026-05-24 16:00 - 18:30 | AFKO, 807 Baker St, Nelson, V1L 4J8
Come discover how a simple word can become a work of art, and how art can bring people together. Free entry—come as you are!
Immerse yourself in a world where art becomes an opportunity for connection.
Schedule
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Strolling and Visual Arts
Explore the space freely to discover sculptures, installations, paintings, and knitted works, and exchange ideas with the collective’s members.
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Performing Arts and Discussion
Join us for musical, poetic, and film presentations. The evening will conclude with an open discussion on creativity and the role of art in our lives.
About Le Labo Créatif (the Creative Lab)
Who are we?
The Creative Lab is more than just an art club; it’s a safe and supportive space where exploration takes precedence over the final result. Our core consists of three founding members: Émilie Leblanc Kromberg, Louise Hardy, and Véronique Trudel.
The concept is simple yet powerful: each month, a new theme is introduced (such as “movement,” “in a whisper,” “grief,” “vertigo,” “imaginary friend,” or “firefly”). Each member then creates a work inspired by that theme, with complete freedom of medium. Poetry, temporary installations, sewing, song, circus, or dance—all are welcome. Whether finished or in progress, each piece is presented at the next meeting, followed by a discussion. The next theme is chosen, and the cycle continues!
While the theme serves as the starting point, the meetings often have a therapeutic dimension. We address deep and sometimes moving subjects, using creativity as a tool for resilience and connection.
Over the years, the Creative Lab has nurtured the creativity of its members far beyond our private gatherings, leading us to participate in the Polka Dot Dragon Festival on three occasions. Today, we are proud to share with the public the results of years of research, experimentation, and sharing.

Cut-throat Karaoke w/ Nikko
2026-05-23 21:00 - 23:30, 2026-05-16 21:00 - 23:30 | Uptown Tavern, 616 Vernon St, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 4G1, Canada
You are cordially invited to sing your lungs off at Cut-throat Karaoke this evening, 9pm Uptown

SAM SINGER and the BEAUTIFUL MOVERS
2026-05-23 20:30 - 23:30 | The Royal, 330 Baker Street, Nelson, BC, V1L 4H5, Canada

Corazón Vocal Ensemble
2026-05-23 19:30 - 21:00, 2026-05-23 15:00 - 16:30 | Capitol Theatre, 421 Victoria St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4K6, Canada
presents
Souvenirs
Corazón’s final performance of the 2025/2026 season! Join us for a celebration of harmony and connection, featuring special guests: Solstice Vocal Ensemble.
VENUE FOR THIS PERFORMANCE IS THE NELSON UNITED CHURCH
YOUR TICKETS WILL BE AT THE DOOR

May Sessions @ Cantina
2026-05-23 19:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Cantina Del Centro, 565 Baker St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4J1, Canada
May 17 – Sapphire Guthrie, Live music, Singer songwriter, 6-8pm
May 23 – Braden Early & Pritchy, DJs’, Mixed genres, 7-11pm
May 31 – Molly Jo McQuaid, Live Music, singer songwriter, 6-8pm

An Evening in Bloom
2026-05-23 19:00 - 22:00 | Bloom Nightclub, 198 Baker St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4H4, Canada
The Nelson Waldorf School PAC is excited to announce a spring fundraiser event in efforts to raise funds for a new school playground-
You are invited to a celebratory evening of dance, flowers, and spring-an uplifting night of rhythm, bloom, and community spirit.Step into spring Bloom for a night of music, flowers, and joyful connection.
This spring dance fundraiser brings our wider community together for an unforgettable evening of DJ sets, flower crowns, and celebration-all in support of our Waldorf school.Dress up, dance freely, shake off winter blues, and be part of something beautiful.
With special guest local DJs APUKUNA and GINGER!
When: May 23 7-10pm
Where: Bloom Nightclub, 198 Baker St
Tickets: ON SALE! Purchase here- https://www.showpass.com/an-evening-in-bloom/
Choose your price for the fundraiser- $25/35/45
About the DJs-
Ginger is a highly recognized presence in the Kootenay electronic music scene having rocked stages every year at the Shambhala Music Festival since 2000. She is one of five DJs who comprise the Meow Mix all-female DJ crew. In 2016, Mary Ann began focusing her talents in the production of original music under the name Midori.
https://www.instagram.com/mary_ann_ginger/https://www.facebook.com/maryann.spearshttps://www.facebook.com/MeowMixBC
Apukuna is known for creating immersive, genre-blending journeys that ignite dance floors and ecstatic dances. His approach is distinctly live and improvisational. Through looping, live remixing, vocals, and percussion, he shapes each set in real time—blurring the line between DJ and live performance. Rooted in both global and contemporary sounds, Apukuna artfully merges heart-centered frequencies with soul-shaking movement.
https://apukunamusic.comhttps://www.instagram.com/apukunamusic/https://www.facebook.com/jon.david.steinman
Questions: Contact Lindsay – lindsaykaythompson@gmail.com

4th Annual Kootenay Co-op Radio Block Party
2026-05-23 15:00 - 19:00 | Lion’s Park, 298 Richards St, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 5J7, Canada
Turn Up the Fun: Join Your Favorite Local Radio for a Community Block Party!
In partnership with the Nelson Lions Club, join Kootenay Co-op Radio at Lions Park in Nelson on Saturday, May 23rd, from 3 pm to 7 pm, for a free community celebration like no other.
Connect with the local non-profits, co-ops and charities that keep our community strong. Get moving with live music and dance performances, grab a bite at the food trucks, and keep the kids busy all afternoon with a full lineup of activities!
It’s free, it’s friendly, and it’s all for you. The KCR Block Party: Saturday, May 23rd, at Lions Park.
ON STAGE
Salsa Ensemble / Sponsored by Starbelly Jam Music Festival
Founded by a collaboration of three local musicians from Mexico and three from Nelson, this group is united by a deep love for Latin rhythms. Expect an infectious energy that will get the whole park moving.
Adham Shaikh (Global Music DJ Set)
An Emmy- and Leo-nominated composer and producer, Adham weaves global music tapestries that blend organic and electronic sounds. With 14 albums and a career scoring for film and TV, he brings a high-energy, transformative experience to the stage.
Slava Doval’s Dance Fusion
A local favorite! Slava and her troupe are known for electrifying crowds with their dynamic, high-energy dance fusion performances.
The Reminitons: A high school band with raw, genre-blending energy. Featuring Alana Knox (drums), Matthew Maskoff-Guy (guitar/vocals), Ted Han (bass/vocals), and Griffin Wanhella (keys), they deliver a fresh, eclectic sound.
The Tapatia Collective Social Dance: Community connection for Salsa lovers
Semba Demo & Afro Beats Party with Tribe Kizomba: Feel the rhythm and join the celebration.
ACTIVITIES & FAMILY FUN
FREE KIDS’ BIKE STATION
Get ready for summer with Free Kids’ Bike Tune-Ups provided by Building Momentum Bikepacking. Plus, get creative at our DIY Bike Decorating station!
FOR THE KIDS (AND KIDS AT HEART):
– Bouncy Castle
– Face Painting
– Kids’ Art Zone
FOR THE ATHLETES:
Adult Volleyball Tournament Hosted by the Nelson Filipino Community. LINK FOR REGISTRATION COMING SOON
FOOD COURT & COMMUNITY HUB
Grab a bite and meet your local change-makers!
Hot Dogs | Tacos | Ice Cream
VISIT THE BOOTHS:
Kootenay Co-op Radio
Kootenay Co-op
The Foundry
Nelson Youth Center
Friends of Kootenay Lake
AFKO
Kootenay Carshare Co-op
WildSafe BC
CKISS
The Civic Theatre
West Kootenay Cycling Coalition

BUTCH VIDEO DANCE w/ THE BACKSTREET BUTCHES
2026-05-22 20:30 - 23:50 | The Royal, 330 Baker Street, Nelson, BC, V1L 4H5, Canada

Melody & The Swing Bastards
2026-05-22 19:30 - 21:30 | Finley’s, 705 Vernon St, Nelson, BC, V1L 4G3, Canada
Kick off your weekend on the dance floor at Finley’s with Melody & The Swing Bastards

Cover by donation: Suggested $10

INSIDE VOICES
2026-05-20 19:00 - 21:00 | The Royal, 330 Baker Street, Nelson, BC, V1L 4H5, Canada
About The Event

Following in the tradition of “Choir! Choir! Choir!”, our event invites the whole room to become the choir – resulting in something like this: https://youtu.be/v9d_tXSyqkI&list=RDv9d_tXSyqkI&start_radio=1

We’ll be singing “We Are Young” (fun). Plus warm-up songs “Closer to Fine” (Indigo Girls) and “Believe” (Cher).

Spring Rejuvenation at The Booster / A day of dance, creativity, thrift and improv
2026-05-19 19:30 - 21:30 | The Booster, 533 Baker StNelson, BC, V1L 4H9
Spring Rejuvenation at The Booster
A day of dance, creativity, thrift and improv
Join us for Spring Rejuvenation at The Booster – a full day of movement, play and community under one roof. Come for one class, or weave your own path through the whole day.
Date:Tuesday, May 19
Location: The Booster, Baker Street, Nelson BC
Schedule
9:30–10:30 am – Morning Ember·kind with Sophie (25 CAD)
A gentle, curious morning movement class to say good morning to your body and wake up the senses.
11:30 am–12:30 pm – Spirit Dance with Heather Hutchison (10 CAD)
An intuitive dance space to move with music, feeling and spirit.
(This is a separate, individual class – not included in passes.)*
1:00–3:00 pm – Open Creative Space (free upon registration)
Bring your movement, writing, sketching, choreographic ideas or simply yourself. A quiet, shared studio window for artists and creatives.
3:00–6:00 pm – Pop‑Up Thrift
Find and share clothing and small treasures as the afternoon unfolds.
We have 3 spots for folks who’d like to bring their own thrift to offer (simple rack or small setup).
6:00–7:00 pm – Evening Ember·kind with Sophie (25 CAD)
Improvisation, contemporary dance and gentle choreography to recharge your creative body.
7:30–9:30 pm – Into the Wild – Dance Session (20 CAD)
A longer, freeform dance journey to land the day – open to all levels.
With DJ Nadine Wildwood
One extra: Friday advanced class
There is also a Friday advanced class on May 14, 10:00–11:30 am at The Booster for dancers who want a deeper, more technical session.
Pricing
Drop‑ins
– Morning Ember·kind: 25 CAD
– Spirit Dance (Heather): 10 CAD
– Evening Ember·kind: 25 CAD
– Into the Wild: 20 CAD
Daytime Flow Pass (Morning Ember·kind + Open Creative Space, excluding Spirit Dance)
– 25 CAD
Evening Dance Pass (Evening Ember·kind + Into the Wild)
– 35 CAD
Full‑Day Rejuvenation Pass
Morning Ember·kind + Open Creative Space + Evening Ember·kind + Into the Wild + access to the thrift day
– 50 CAD
Past Ember·kind series participants receive a special discounted rate on passes – ask us for details when you register.
Summer Intensive & pop‑ups
A 3–4 day Ember·kind Summer Intensive is in the works for the end of June, along with pop‑up classes and jams through the summer. You’ll be able to stay connected with the practice in different spaces and formats – more details coming soon.
How to join
– Click “Going” and
– Send us an email to thebooster.nelson@gmail.com with:
– Which class(es) or pass you’d like
– Whether you want a spot in the Friday advanced class (May 14)
– Whether you’d like one of the 3 thrift seller spots
Payment can be made by e‑transfer (details sent after you register) or in cash on the day.
Come dance, rummage, create and hang out with us – a whole day to replenish and play at The Booster.

SMALL TOWN ARTILLERY
2026-05-16 20:30 - 22:00 | The Royal, 330 Baker Street, Nelson, BC, V1L 4H5, Canada

Mary Liv Live at Nelson Legion
2026-05-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Royal Canadian Legion, 402 Victoria St, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 4K5, Canada
Get ready to vibe with Mary Liv and enjoy a chill, fun-filled hangout you won’t want to miss!
Come on out to The Nelson Legion on May 16th at 6pm to see Mary Liv!
From your 1996 Ford Ranger to the old love letters your ex hid, there are stories that need to be told. Independent, femme folk singer Mary Liv based out of Saskatoon creates relatable songs from real life.
Her song, “In The Ground”, won the SOCAN Young Canadian Songwriter Award (2025). Inspired by the song-writing of artists such as Roger Miller and Abigail Lapell, Liv sings a blend of high-energy country songs as well as more femme-folk, protest songs. As a multi-instrumentalist with deep roots in Canadian fiddle and country music, Liv draws melodies and phrasing from her roots. She has released a traditional fiddle album, Fiddlin Around (2024) as well as an all originals album, Hello There (2025).
Touring around the Canadian prairies for the past two years, Liv has played at venues such as The Bassment (SK) as well as festivals such as Ness Creek Music Festival (SK). “Whether I’m singing to coffee shop crowds or to music festival audiences, my music is intended to get everyone dancing,” says Liv.

Re-Union Music Festival
2026-05-15 - 2026-05-18 | Slocan Valley
An intimate Electronic Music & Arts Festival rooted in Underground House & Techno sounds. 5 years of serving the Queer+ community: Curated with love by the people for the people.
