What: 5th Annual Riot on the Roof!
Where: Vernon Parkade, 3228 31st Ave. Vernon, BC
When: August 24, 2013, 7-11pm
Why: Alternative Arts Event for Teens
Who: Vernon Public Art Gallery

The Vernon Public Art Gallery is gearing up for its 5th annual alternative arts event: Riot on the Roof. On Saturday, August 24th, Riot will transform the Vernon Parkade into a vibrant sphere of creativity by showcasing the artistic talents of emerging artists from the Okanagan and surrounding areas.

“Each summer our Youth Ambassadors bring new energy to the event, new perspectives, and a new vision, and because of this Riot on the Roof has become a dynamic event including everything from live music to spoken word poetry. Jamie and Robert (2013 Youth Ambassadors) have been working tirelessly to recruit new artists and provide audiences with a very unique Riot experience.” Said Dauna Kennedy Grant, Executive Director.

Three very impressive artist(s) groups have been scheduled to appear; a good example of the diversity at this event.

Mousai Entertainment, based out of Vancouver and Calgary, is a collaboration of ten diverse performers, specializing in many forms of dance and body movement including contemporary, jazz, ballet, contact dance, flamenco, and belly dance. In addition, some of the members have training in partner acrobatics, contortion, aerial ribbon, fire eating, and prop manipulation. Mousai adds to the atmospheric element of any venue through artistic interactive dance and body movement. The team incorporates elaborate, creative character roles and costuming into their shows. While creating these live visual acts, Mousai performers stimulate and uplift people’s conscious energies. Through the unspoken language of dance, Mousai promotes positive vibrations and awareness of the body. While working with venues, lighting, decor, and visual experts, Mousai will become part of the atmosphere at Riot. Expect to see Mousai perusing the levels of the Parkade throughout the evening.

On the main stage, guests will hear The Dragstrip Devils, a rockabilly/psycho-billy trio from Vernon, BC. The band members love fast cars, hot licks and pin-up chicks! Influenced by Eddie Cochran, Gene Vincent and Johnny Burnett with a twist, their songs will make you want to rip it up and hit that dance floor with your baby. This three piece band will have you shakin’ all over!

Nathan Hare has been perfecting the balancing act of performance poetry. Immersed in the written word yet drawn towards the stage, Nathan has performed over a hundred times in the last two years, sharing his art form everywhere; from churches to sweaty basements. Praised for his humour, honesty and narrative ability, Nathan ultimately attempts to create work that will bring joy and inspire.

The focus of Riot on the Roof is to promote youth involvement in the Okanagan’s artistic community and provide an opportunity to view and participate in alternative forms of art and entertainment. Such art forms include music, dance, fashion, film, performance, visual arts, and more. This highly anticipated event is enjoyed by hundreds each year and promises to provide a fun and riotous evening for all.

Riot on the Roof runs from 7:00 pm-11:00 pm on Saturday, August 24th atop the Vernon Parkade, on the corner of 31st Ave and 33rd St. Tickets are $5 for Gallery members or $10 for non-members, available in advance at the Gallery or at the door.

Photos: Mousai Entertainment, Dragstrip Devils, Nathan Hare

For more information about the Vernon Public Art Gallery contact: 250-545-3173,
@VernonAGalleryambassador@vernonpublicartgallery.com , www.vernonpublicartgallery.com

For more information about Riot on the Roof visit the Rioting Youth Blog, or visit the Facebook Page.