Social Intercourse: June 5

In our biweekly column Social Intercourse, we share our picks for notable things happening on campus and in Edmonton. Check out all these amazing local events!

What: A Gay Ol’ Time! A Pride Variety Show
When: June 12 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Aviary
Admission: $20 in advance, $25 at the door

This Pride Variety Show features many Edmonton performers and artists including but not limited to Lily Monaghan, SOUR, and Waffelhouse. Monaghan, an Edmonton-based sing-songwriter, incorporates elements of folk, pop, and country into her work. She released her debut EP Introspection in February 2023. SOUR is an emerging soul-pop band with members playing instruments such as the electric bass, trombone, trumpet, and more. Lastly, Waffelhouse is nearing the anniversary of their first and most recent EP, Middle of June, released June 2023.

What: Listening to the Land by Christina Battle and Lara Felsing
When: June 8 to July 6
Where: Fine Arts Building (FAB) Gallery
Admission: Free

Listening to the Land considers relationships to land and community and the potential of artistic gesture during crisis. Much of Battle’s past work has focused on the concept of disaster. In her 2020 PhD dissertation she examined community responses to disaster and how artistic and online models can help to frame and strengthen responses. Meanwhile, Felsing is interested in the interconnectedness of life on Earth. She works to bring awareness to the importance of caring for the Earth and its inhabitants.

What: Prairie Star Deck by AJA Louden
When: May 25 to July 13, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Alberta Craft Discovery Gallery
Admission: Free

Jamaican-Canadian artist AJA Louden is showcasing his textile Afrofuturism exhibit at the Alberta Craft Discovery Gallery. Typically focused on painting, the switch to textiles is a change of medium for Louden. Although, his interest in science fiction is evident from the murals he has painted in Edmonton and Lethbridge. Prairie Star Deck wrestles with ideas grounded in Afrofuturism that consider the cyclical nature of power, taking inspiration from science fiction and historical paintings.

What: The Room
When: June 7 at 11:30 p.m.
Where: Metro Cinema
Admission: $11 for students and $14 for adults

The Room’s infamously terrible acting, cinematography, dialogue, editing, production, and overall script cemented its place in movie history as one of the worst movies of all time. Overtime it has become a beloved cult classic. Like many cult classics, screenings of The Room are anything but normal. Expect audience participation and the throwing of plastic spoons. Buy your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

What: Wahkotowin Outdoor Market
When: June 8, 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Astotin Lake Recreation Area
Admission: Free

Sick of the city and want to spread your legs a little? The Wahkotowin Outdoor Market in Elk Island National Park is only approximately 45 minutes by car from the University of Alberta. The market will feature artisan goods from Indigenous artists and vendors. After you finish shopping, take time to enjoy the beautiful waters of Astotin Lake, which the market is right by. Consider hiking one of Elk Island’s many park trails, although remember to be mindful of local wildlife, like the park’s famous bison.