1. Expect the skies over the city to become more fragrant than usual as the second annual Levitation Vancouver takes over the Commodore Ballroom, the Rickshaw Theatre, Imperial and the Cobalt for four days and nights of mind-bending, doors of perception opening, psychedelically inspired musical goodness June 16 to 19. Performers include Flying Lotus, Of Montreal, thee Oh Sees, Thundercat, White Lung, Allah-Las, Shabazz Palaces, Dead Meadow and Dada Plan, among others. Details at levitation-vancouver.com.
2. Comedy icon Carol Burnett reflects on her storied career, takes questions from the audience and likely tugs on her left ear a few times June 18, 7:30 p.m. at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Tickets at ticketmaster.ca.
3. Burlesque legend and bedmate to both Elvis and JFK, Tempest Storm is the subject and name of Vancouver filmmaker Nimisha Mukerji’s latest documentary, which explores the controversial life story of one of America’s most iconic exotic dancers, who at 87, tries to reconcile with the family she walked away from 50 years ago. The film opens June 18 at the Rio Theatre, with a live Q&A with Mukerji and Storm at the Saturday and Sunday screenings. Details at riotheatre.ca.
4. Visual art exhibition, performing arts series, workshops, artist talks, panels, media art screenings — the Queer Arts Festival has it all June 21 to 30 at the Roundhouse. This year’s theme, Stonewall Was a Riot, explores activism and art and “renews the connection between contemporary Pride celebrations and a continuing history of struggle.” Details at queerartsfestival.com.
