The Top Things to Do in Vancouver This Week

Monday, May 25, 2009 –UBC Botanical Garden Seminar: Forensic Botany - Past, Present, and Future 

Rolf Mathewes will discuss the history of forensic investigation using plants. He will discuss a number of the British Columbian cases he has worked on - like 10 year old Heather Thomas' murder in 2000 - and will talk about the future of forensic botany. Coffee and tea are provided, bring a bag lunch. Admission is free, but please contact 604-822-3928 or botg@interchange.ubc.ca to book your seat. 

Tuesday, May 26, 2009 – Unique Lives & Experiences

Shirley Jones, former member of the Partridge Family, presents her Unique Lives & Experiences lecture The Cinderella Dream. Afterwards, ask away during a 30 minute question and answer period. The lecture begins at 7:30 at the Orpheum Theatre (884 Granville). Find out more at Unique Lives.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009 – The Ride To Conquer Cancer

Support the  Ride to Conquer Cancer, which benefits the B.C. Cancer Foundation, at this fundraiser dinner at Zesty Restaurant (920 Commercial). Enjoy live music by talented local musicians as well as a silent auction. The benefit starts at 6 pm, and the minimum donation is $20. Get more info here.

Thursday, May 28, 2009 –  The Dance Centre presents Discover Dance! 

Celebrate Asian Heritage Month and explore the elegance of Thai dance with a performance by the Thai Dance Company, led by Artistic Director Pimchanok Megara Solloway. The company will present Nattasilapa Thai, a selection of traditional and dramatic dances from different regions featuring live music and the elaborate costumes Thai dance is famed for. After the performance, there will be a question and answer session for the audience. The show is at noon at the Scotiabank Dance Centre, 677 Davie St (at Granville). Buy tickets at Tickets Tonight or call  604 684 2787. See programs and schedules at The Dance Centre's website.

Friday, May 29,  2009 – Julio Iglesias

Suave Spanish performer Julio Iglesias is at the River Rock Show Theatre (River Rock Casino Resort, 8811 River Rd., Richmond) tonight to perform songs like To All the Girls I've Loved Before and All of You. Doors open at 7 pm and the show starts at 8. Get tickets here.

Saturday, May 30, 2009 –  Heidi's Bebop for AIDS

Head back to the 50's for a fun night of dancing and music at the Sullivan Community Centre in Surrey from 7 pm until 1. Come out for entertainment, a cash bar, professional DJ, prizes for the best 50s get up, a 50/50 draw, free appetizers, and much more. All proceeds will go to support AIDS Vancouver (AIDSVancouver.org). Get info about the event here.

Sunday, May 31, 2009 – Peaches

Toronto born Peaches – part musician, part performance artist – is at the Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville) at 9:30 pm tonight. Doors open at 8, find tickets to the event here.