Author: Sharon Yeo

Sharon is an Edmonton-based blogger who has been writing about food since 2006.

Edmonton’s Fashion Festival: Fall/Winter 2007

Amanda and I headed to the last runway show of Edmonton’s Fashion Festival tonight. The event moved from Planet Ze Design in Old Strathcona to the more visible and central location of Churchill Square.

While the website recommended attendees to “dress creatively,” due to the venue being a tent in the urban outdoors, the slogan really should have been “dress warmly,” as my sister and I were quite cold by the end of the nearly two and a half hour show (my flats really were not the smartest shoe choice).

We had decided to line up quite early, which in hindsight was a great decision, as we were able to secure front row seats. The poor souls who arrived too late were relegated to stand in the crowded areas behind the chairs, not fun on the hard concrete Square floor. I didn’t blame those in the back for leaving early, as nearly half the crowd had gone by the time the last designer hit the runway.

Amanda and I wait for the show to begin
The Festival’s Creative Director Sandra Sing Fernandes opened the show by welcoming everyone. She’s a rather imposing lady, with a radio-friendly voice and a daring fashion sense. While it is likely because of her due diligence that a fashion festival exists at all in the city, perhaps from a PR standpoint she should have taken the time to, for example, learn to pronounce the names of sponsors, remember who donated the door prizes, and be able to properly introduce performers.

Sandra Sing Fernandes, MC for the evening
First up wasn’t a runway showcase, but an Edmonton-born country singer, who performed “Lady Marmalade”, for what purpose I don’t know. Later on in the show, a troupe of ballet dancers took to the stage. Neither of these seemingly impromptu additions were advertised in the program, and though it is a nice thought to provide members of the artistic community with a venue, in the grand scheme of things, such inclusions ultimately detracted from the evening’s fashion focus. Superfluous interruptions like these really highlight the assumption that fashion cannot survive on its own in Edmonton.

Of the four collections, I thought Nylon by Dex had the most “wearable” designs, while Nokomis‘ whimsical hair and makeup choices emphasised the expected femininity and organic nature of their designs. I thoroughly enjoyed Morse Code‘s portion of the night – entertaining and visually slick, the models were cheeky, with a 70s sensibility in their outrageous wigs and movements, supported by funky music choices (including remixes of Batman and Spiderman theme songs). The show closer, Stanley Carroll, opened with a spooky Halloween theme, dressing the first few models backwards, and affixing wigs over their faces and attaching a mask to the backs of their heads. While memorable, the clothing ended up playing second fiddle to the stunt. The rest of the collection was showcased with the lights on, fortunately, but really was much too long.

Ultra Ego


Ultra Ego


Nokomis


Nokomis


Morse Code


Morse Code


Nylon by Dex


Stanley Carroll


Stanley Carroll


Stanley Carroll

This was my first fashion show, and I must say it was enjoyable as a whole. Sitting so close, I was able to notice some of the “seams” – padding under shoes to prevent scuffing of soles (and allowing for shoe resale), and really, in many cases, the shoes being much too big for the models to walk properly. On another note, Amanda and I talked about the need for a bigger (indoor) space, but the halls of Shaw Conference and Northlands are all too mainstream. It will be interesting to see where this takes place next year.

Goaded by an exposure to America’s Next Top Model, but helped by the “glamour” of flashing bulbs, pumping base, and the irresistible sound of high heels hitting the platform, I will be back. Look for Spring/Summer Fashion Week in April 2008.

Edmonton Symphony Orchestra: Midweek Classics

While I’ve known for a while about the existence of discounted programs created by local arts companies in an attempt to build loyalty in the 18-29 age group (whom they hope will become lifelong patrons), I hadn’t looked closely into it until this year. The Citadel has Club Friday (which is outrageously expensive, especially in the face of pay what you can Sundays), Edmonton Opera runs an Explorers’ Club (which I joined this year), and last but not least, the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra operates the Pulse8 Club.

Of the three, Pulse8 offers the best deal hands down – free to join, members can purchase up to two tickets to most of ESO’s concerts for $15 each. Best of all, when tickets are released to Pulse8 members, it is the best available seats that are up for grabs. Keeping in mind that gallery seats are regularly $42 each, this provides a great opportunity to inexpensively enjoy a night of music. One tip – if possible, buy the tickets in person, otherwise one ends up paying $4 more in service charges when ordering over the phone.

Another unexpected benefit of Pulse8 membership ended up being free tickets to the opening Midweek Classics concert that took place last night. Dickson and I were given terrace seats, not bad considering the tickets were complimentary to begin with.

As this was my first classical concert, I relied heavily on Dickson to explain to me why a conductor is necessary at all (sacrilege for those intimate with the orchestral workings), and had a juvenile laugh at the fact that the conductor’s right hand man is called the Concertmaster (anyone else think he should wear a sash of some kind?). I will say that it was a lovely sight to be able to see the synchronized bow movements of the stringed instruments, and the gradual addition of each section to the song as a whole. The music itself was nice, though to be entirely honest I haven’t been exposed to enough classical repetoire to really appreciate it. I am used to such music in a supporting role, and never as the end itself, so I think learning to appreciate such music for music’s sake will take time.

The real surprise of the night was ESO’s Music Director. Anyone who has seen William Eddins on stage will know that he is entertaining in his own right – I’ve never before encountered such an animated conductor. He actually physically left the ground a few times, and I was afraid some of his jerky arm movements would push him into a coronary. His comments between pieces and introductions of the featured musicians showed his charisma and humor, as well as his respect and passion for the music.

I am fortunate that I will be getting another opportunity to enjoy the symphony very soon – a few friends and I will be heading to the Robbins Pops celebration of John Williams’ 75th birthday this weekend.

“It might as well have been a holiday Monday”

I called Langano Skies on Sunday night with the intention of reserving a table for a group of us the next day, but it turned out the restaurant is closed Mondays. Anna attempted the same with a few eateries close by to no avail.

So nearly by default we ended up at Next Act Pub & Grill (8224 104 Street). Or should I say, everyone else did, as I arrived just as the flashes were going off. But with the magic of photos, it appears as if I had been there the entire time.

Reunion!

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to visit much with Doug (and Jared) who had to leave, but after having my supper packed to go, the rest of us piled over to Michael’s place to chat. Thanks for having us Michael!

Random Notes

I would prefer to avoid shorthand posts, but they are such a convenient fallback when no elaboration is needed. So here, again:

  • The Edmonton Journal created a new section in Saturday’s edition called “Style” two weeks ago. From what I can tell, it is an amalgamation of everything the Globe’s daily “Life” is – a snapshot of home decor, a piece on fashion, a restaurant review – but all very haphazard and scattered. I never knew what happened to “Ed” (it seemed to just disappear from print, at least), but “Style” is a very poor follow-up, if that is indeed what it is.
  • On that note, my weekly round-up, as seen in the Globe & Mail: a table shaped like a grand piano that brings new meaning to “dinner music”; and a photo group on Flickr that celebrates the greatness of a brown bag lunch.
  • Speaking of Flickr, Mack was nice enough to buy me a Flickr Pro account this week, slyly pushing me to integrate further into the throes of Web 2.0 life. Thanks Mack!
  • My beloved TelevisionWithoutPity got a makeover recently. At quick glance, they got rid of the clever show icons in favor of network pictures, and ads are more prominent on the frontpage, unfortunately. It’s definitely shinier, but now looks suspiciously corporate…what do you think?
  • I was very happy to read that the rest of the Sex & the City‘s season 6 regulars, David Eigenberg, Evan Handler and Jason Lewis, were secured for the upcoming movie. I had to suppress a squee when I saw the first production still. Ah, to heck with it – squee!

Culinary Q & A with Eric

Occupation: Student

What did you eat today?

Breakfast: Erica’s peanut butter cookies.
Mid-morning snack: raisins and banana.
Lunch: Grilled chicken sandwich (made by Chef Moi).
Mid-afternoon snack: Bits and Bite (a treat!).
Pre-Capoeira bite: International fare from the “Study Abroad” session.
Dinner: Japanese udon.
Dessert: Pineapple and banana.

What do you never eat?

Lamb.

What is your personal specialty?

As in cooking?????!

What is your favorite kitchen item?

The French knife.

World ends tomorrow. Describe your last meal.

A hearty duck confit, fruits of every kind from around the world, and a glass of fine red wine.

Where do you eat out most frequently?

Very random now since I don’t eat out often.

What’s the best place to eat in Edmonton?

Jack’s Grill for ultimate food pampering, Sunterra’s pizza for delicious gourmet lunch on-the-go, and Bistro Praha for the ambience (sorry, I know it’s three).

If you weren’t limited by geography, where and what would you eat?

I would go to Romania and eat all the Elephant Ears I can!

Quotable Women (and Two Men): Installment Four

  • “Friendship is born at the moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? Thought I was the only one.'” – C.S. Lewis
  • “True friends are those who really know you but love you anyway.” – Edna Buchanan
  • “It’s the friends you can call up at four A.M. that matter.” – Marlene Dietrich
  • “I always feel that the great high privilege, relief, and comfort of friendship was that one had to explain nothing.” – Katherine Mansfield
  • “I felt it shelter to speak to you.” – Emily Dickinson
  • “A friend will tuck the tab back into your collar.” – Anonymous
  • “Some of the most rewarding and beautiful moments of a friendship happen in the unforeseen open spaces between planned activities. It is important that you allow these spaces to exist.” – Christine Leefeldt
  • “A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down.” – Arnold H. Glasgow

“Prison Break”: Season 3 Premiere

After a summer nearly free of appointment television, the first of the fall premieres (besides The Hills, anyway) aired last night.

Season three of Prison Break has begun with four familiar faces behind bars, this time in a seedy Panamanian jail controlled by the inmates within. While Lincoln promised Michael mid-episode that he would be transferred to a safer facility the next day, the harsh discovery of LJ and Sara’s kidnapping means the genesis of another story arc through blackmail. And so as it stands – Michael will have to help another prisoner break out of Sona, lest allow for the demise of his nephew and would-be lover.

After months of light summer television fare, the tense, gripping, cliffhanger format of serial dramas will take some getting used to again.

Edmonton: Free to Discover

I have the privilege of compiling a monthly calendar of events for my clients at work, in the hopes of encouraging them to explore and enjoy what the city has to offer. Since undertaking this initiative over a year ago, I must admit to the secondary benefit of becoming quite well-informed about economical and unique happenings in Edmonton. Thus, I am now quite dismayed when I encounter anyone who claims that “There is nothing to do in Edmonton.” At least, nothing related to either West Edmonton Mall or Whyte Avenue nightlife.

September, besides being the time of year that induces groans of children and teens everywhere, will also see the occurrence of four distinct, growing festivals:

  • Only in its second year, and taking place about a month before the better known Lit Fest, the Edmonton Poetry Festival is offering a plethora of events, many free, from readings, to poetry slams to a hip-hop night.
  • Edmonton Fashion Week runs from September 24-28, this year moving its runway shows from the south side Planet Ze Design to the unbridled space of Churchill Square. Besides being great for the current movement towards the publicity and revitalization of the downtown core, it also allows the festival itself increased exposure to new crowds. While the runway shows are not free, the opening night gala, featuring displays and a preview showcase, is open at no cost to the public (though attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable donation to the food bank).
  • The revamped Edmonton International Film Festival starts on September 28. Although it’s a shame the filmed-in-Alberta Assassination of Jesse James isn’t being screened, the matinee documentary series can be seen for $5 a pop.
  • Revitalization of a different sort is being celebrated in the form of the second annual Arts on the Ave Kaleido Festival. Nurturing the artistic in the ill-famed Alberta Avenue district, the festival is hosting a number of free performances and street entertainment (and for those who missed the five-star Fringe favorites Water and Homeless, you’ll get the chance to see them on stage for a bargain $5 a ticket).

I always wonder what it would have been like to grow with the Fringe, now just having finished its twenty-sixth consecutive run. With these four festivals still in their relative stages of infancy, perhaps one day you can look back and know that you were there for the beginning.

Other notable free activities during the month of September:

  • City Farm, which aims to expose the public to cultivation and animal care techniques, is holding its Harvest Festival on September 15. Admission by donation.
  • Free admission week at Kinsmen Sports Centre runs from September 22-30.
  • Two fun, cheeky exhibits at the Art Gallery of Alberta, including pieces by Andy Warhol start later this month. Admission into the temporary space at Enterprise Square is free from 4-8pm on Thursdays.
  • The City of Edmonton’s celebration of recreation, Free Admission Day, offers no cost entry to all city-owned facilities on September 30, including the perennially-popular and family-friendly Fort Edmonton Park, Valley Zoo, and Muttart Conservatory, as well as recreation centres and arenas.

Spicy and Pricey: Tropika

I finally made my way down to the south side Tropika (6004 104 Street) on Wednesday with Dickson, spurred on by a coupon I had on hand. I had heard that the food was good but pricey, so a discounted meal was a definite encouragement to try their version of Malaysian cuisine. pricey

As opposed to many Asian restaurants, the purveyors of Tropika attempted to cobble together an actual decor scheme. Unfortunately, the unfinished wood panelling on the ceiling reminded me more of the plywood Contiki village cabins than a “rustic” South Asian establishment.

Upon being seated, I showed the coupon I had clipped from a local flyer to our waitress, as the print on the slip indicated that it had to be surrendered before ordering. She asked if I had the rest of the flyer, but I did not, and even though the address and phone number of the restaurant was apparent, without the word “Tropika” on it, she was hesitant to accept it without asking her manager first. Though this wasn’t a major inconvenience (they accepted it in the end), it didn’t exactly start off our meal on the best note.

Service aside, I was extremely impressed with the full-color, coil-bound menus. The pictures were gorgeous (especially compared with the out-of-focus, yellowed photos on the menus at Kyoto), and for those who are not familiar with Malaysian dishes, provide a visual trial to encourage gastronomic experimentation. We opted for an order of Roti Canai (a thin, pan-fried bread) to start, and for the heart of the meal, Nasi Goreng (a type of fried rice), Sayur Lemak Hot Pot (a seafood curry) and Pad Thai.

We ended up with a lot more food than the two of us could eat, and really, most of it was too spicy for us to eat (at no fault of the chef). I was pleasantly surprised at the liberal amount of seafood that presented itself in each dish. The Nasi Goreng was my favorite by far, if not only because it was the mildest of the three, but the Roti was quite tasty as well, and worked well with the curry sauce from the hot pot. Service was spotty throughout the night (I wished for more water on more than one instance), but improved once the frugal waitress was replaced by another server.

Even with the coupon, the meal worked out to about $18 per person, still rather expensive for Asian food in general. But with leftovers that served me well for lunch the next day, I couldn’t complain much.

Menu!

Roti Canai

Nasi Goreng (a lot better than the photo makes the dish look)

Sayur Lemak

Pad Thai

Random Notes

  • Celebrate Dine Alberta by enjoying regional ingredients at 36 participating Edmonton eateries. I hope at some point the website will be able to provide more detail about the special menus at each restaurant.
  • Italians were encouraged to boycott pasta today to protest rising prices. I can’t imagine such a movement will get very far.
  • After some exposure to Jamie At Home, I now want to start referring to zucchini as courgettes and arugula as wild rocket.
  • There was a really fascinating article in last week’s See Magazine about a local group that organizes what is essentially hide-and-seek for adults. They set the boundaries, choose a “manhunter,” allow players 120 seconds to run, and then the game begins. Those who play fall into two categories: those who enjoy being chased, and those who hide for dear life.
  • Every Friday, the Life section of the Globe & Mail showcases unique home accessories and decor items. One piece they highlighted was a “welcome” mat that suits your mood. Two others I enjoyed from the same website were the Sun Jar (like capturing a firefly, but better), and dinner plates that can truly reveal what you think about a particular guest (as well as cheekily interpreting the idea of “good china” and “bad china”).