(Image Source: Emma Pennell Official Website)

Urban Ink, in collaboration with The Cultch, has announced the sixth edition of its TRANSFORM Festival at the Vancouver Playhouse.

Curated by Artistic Director Corey Payette, the festival will feature five nights of performances across two weekends. This article will focus on opera-related performances.

First up is “Opening BASH!,” hosted by Canada’s Drag Race Season 5 star Jaylene Tyme. Soprano Emma Pennell headlines the event, which also includes dance, circus, comedy, and drag.

Performance Date: Nov. 6, 2025

Then, TRANSFORM presents the world premiere of “Where the Rivers Meet,” a new musical event celebrating Indigenous cultures and their connection to water. The showcase is hosted by Suzette Amaya and features soprano Emma Pennell. Other performers include cellist and composer Cris Derksen, and composers Russell Wallace and Sherryl Sewepagaham.

Performance Date: Nov. 8, 2025

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