Event Details
GLITTER2026 - GALA Event Details
GLITTER is built on performance — a living, breathing runway extravaganza where dance, theatre, fashion, music, and circus arts collide in one unforgettable evening. On September 12, 2026, the Vancouver Island Conference Centre becomes a stage for Nanaimo’s most spectacular fundraising gala, featuring an extraordinary lineup of local and visiting artists united by one purpose: supporting youth mental health in our community. This page is your insider’s guide to everything that makes GLITTER shine — from the performers who will take your breath away to the experiences that make the night extraordinary.
Hosts:
Cathy Holmes
Co-Host
Cathy Holmes brings heart, experience, and a touch of sparkle to her role as co-host of GLITTER 2026. A familiar face across Vancouver Island, she is the Producer and Host of Act3 on Rogers Television and a voice on CHLY 101.7 FM, with more than a decade in radio and television and over 14 years writing for Nanaimo Voyager Magazine.
Beyond the microphone, Cathy is a passionate community advocate. Through her work with United Way BC and the BC Community Response Network, she has dedicated herself to supporting individuals and strengthening communities with compassion and care. As the founder of Right Choice Educational Services, and with nearly four decades working alongside high school students, she brings both professional insight and heartfelt commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces—always guided by her belief in meeting people where they’re at.
She is honoured to be part of an evening that celebrates community, inclusion, and the importance of ensuring young people have places where they feel seen, safe, and supported.
Kevin Wagner
Co-Host
For nearly two decades, Kevin Wagner has proudly called mid-Island his home. During this time, he has established himself as a dedicated tradesperson and become deeply embedded in the fabric of the local community.
Kevin’s commitment to community extends beyond his professional work. As a volunteer and host for Act3 on Rogers Television, he has gained valuable insights into the richness of Vancouver Island.
Away from work and volunteering, Kevin is a devoted father to two children. Both he and his wife place great importance on family, making the most of their time together whenever possible.
Kevin is thrilled to be taking part in Glitter 2026. He eagerly anticipates the event and the meaningful support it will provide to the community.
Featuring:
Mina Mercury
Drag Queen/ DJ
Mina Mercury has been working in the Canadian Drag industry for over 30 years and has been a force to reckon with when it comes to her talent.
Her celebrity impersonations such as Madonna, Freddie Mercury, Pink, Judy Garland & Moira Rose just to name a few have wowed crowds everywhere. This combined with her strong hosting abilities along with fabulous comedic timing and her love for interacting with her audiences makes her a quadruple threat!
Mina’s biggest assets are her connection with her public, her devotion to the community and a constant evolution of her craft!
Some of Mina’s career highlights so far include being the 2S+LGBTQIA Ambassador for Helijet, releasing music on iTunes, Spotify and other streaming platforms. Creating Kids N Queens Drag Story Time, creating & hosting The Virtual Drag Show Canada as well as the West Coast Editions and working to raise funds for many organizations such as Rainbow Refugee, Friends For Life, The Urban Native Youth Association and more.
insta: @mina.mercury
facebook: Mina Mercury
x: @minamercury
tiktok: @minamercury
YouTube: @minamercury
Ciaran Cowie
Musician
Born in Hamilton, New Zealand, Ciaran Cowie moved to Canada and discovered a love for performing, singing in musical theatre productions since junior high school and recently competing in Nanaimo Idol. Alongside singing, Ciaran also plays guitar and a variety of band instruments.
Ciaran is especially honoured to perform at Glitter because supporting mental health is a cause that is deeply personal to him. It is a ongoing battle for himself and many people he cherishes.
Links:
Instagram @anomalyheights
https://www.instagram.com/anomalyheights
TikTok @anomalyheights
https://www.tiktok.com/@anomalyheights
Narrisa Young
Vocalist
Narrisa Young, is a seasoned vocalist, songwriter, and captivating live performer whose career has taken her across stages, studios, and international audiences.
Rooted in a lifelong relationship with music, her artistry has evolved into a refined, expressive style-equally at home in intimate settings and full production events.
Today, Nerissa bridges performance with purpose as a certified Sound Therapy and Vibroacoustic Therapy practitioner and educator.
Drawing on her deep musical foundation, she creates immerse experiences that move beyond listening into felt resonance-supporting emotional depth, connection, and well-being.
Based in Nanaimo, BC., she offers private lessons, leads trainings, workshops, and retreats, and continues to perform with elegance and intention-offering music not only as an art,but as the powerful medium for healing and transformation.
Sukhi Sangha
Dancer
Sukhi Sangha is an award-winning cultural leader, dance educator, and advocate for community connection. She is the founder of Vancouver Island Bhangra, President of Rang South Asian Arts and Culture Society, and owner of Vancouver Island’s first South Asian consignment store, Teri Meri Almari. Sukhi has become a leading voice for South Asian arts and culture on Vancouver Island.
A former competitive dancer who has performed internationally, Sukhi now serves as an international dance adjudicator, instructor, and mentor. She is the recipient of the City of Nanaimo’s Honour in Culture Award (2024) and was recognized as a Women of Influence in Arts & Culture recipient in 2025. Through dance, cultural programming, and community partnerships, she is dedicated to celebrating diversity, fostering inclusion, and building meaningful connections across communities.
Website: www.vibhangra.com
Instagram: @vancouverislandbhangra
Facebook: @vancouverislandbhangra
Tik Tok: @vancouverislandbhangra
Youtube:@vancouverislandbhangra
Instagram: @rangsociety
Facebook: @rangsociety
Instagram: @terimerialmari
Facebook: @terimerialmari
Janvi Batra
Dancer
Janvi Batra is a dedicated dancer, youth leader, and emerging dance instructor who has been an active member of Vancouver Island Bhangra since 2021. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration at Vancouver Island University, Janvi combines her passion for cultural arts with a strong commitment to community engagement. She has also been a dedicated volunteer with Rang South Asian Arts and Culture Society, helping promote and celebrate South Asian culture across Vancouver Island. As she transitions into her new role as a dance teacher, Janvi continues to inspire younger dancers through her leadership, mentorship, and enthusiasm. She is a highly valued member of the Vancouver Island Bhangra family and a positive role model within the community.
Nico Rhodes
Musician
Nico Rhodes is a musical man who wears many hats. Between writing over 400 compositions, 5 musicals, directing several local choirs, touring internationally with his hit duo-piano comedy show Piano Heist, collaborating with Juno award-winning artists, arranging for big band, symphony orchestra, choirs, brass quintets and more, Nico enjoys studying Japanese, knitting, playing chess and learning new instruments (14 to date). His belief that anyone can and should make music is unwavering, and his life long mission is to bring smiles and tears to those he has the privilege to play for.
FB: Nico Rhodes.Musi
Instagram: Nico.Rhodes.Music
Port Theatre https://www.porttheatre.com/events/hullabaloo-2026/.
Crimson Coast
Dance
Crimson Coast Dance is a small scale, artist led, non-profit charity that professionally produces dance events on Snuneymuxw Territory, also known as Nanaimo, and in the Central Vancouver Island Region. We produce a MainStage season called Dance On The Crimson Coast – The InFrinGinG Dance Festival – Mixed Abilities Dance Jams – Residencies – and a youth program, Body Talk HiP HoP PoW WoW. Crimson Coast Dance Society brings a diverse range of high-calibre dance experiences to the Nanaimo area which feature contemporary, cultural, street or fusion genre. We deliver inclusive performances and educational opportunities at both the grassroots and professional levels, and strive to represent the diversity of our audience, community, and performers. We aim to support a diverse and inclusive workforce and workplace. Crimson Coast views difference as our biggest asset and inspiration. We give our highest regard to the Snuneymuxw People as we do our work on their land.
Connie Smudge
Drag Performer
Conni Smudge has been over a quarter century in the making. She has performed on some of the most unlikely stages. From the Biker Bars of Nanaimo B.C. to the Grand Theatres of Europe.
Besides her great performing ability, her wit, charm and approachable nature has afforded her the honour of being a highly sought after event host and spokesperson.
Based out of Vancouver B.C., Mz Smudge has been the face of several initiatives, events and charities, including her appearance on Dragon’s Den with Haystax Financial, the North American OutGames, Qmunity, The City of Vancouver, North Shore ConneXions, Whitecaps FC, Pride Vancouver, and The Q Hall of Fame Canada to name just a few. Her monikers include Mother to the House of Opulence, Entertainer of the Year, and she has been Sainted by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.
She is the proud Co-Founder of The North Shore Pride Alliance and will forever be grateful for the opportunity to make connections, building bridges by crossing them and fulfilling her purpose in life; To create space for everyone to belong, by spreading joy and understanding where ever she goes.
Circus Freaks
Musician
Just up the highway from Nanaimo, Circus Freaks has built a studio and performance company devoted to the art of going up. Their performers work across aerial silks, lyra hoop, pole, and chair dance — disciplines that demand strength, grace, and a flair for the theatrical. Beyond the stage, the studio runs workshops, weekly classes, and community events that have made them a fixture of Vancouver Island’s circus scene.
They also pioneered something called the aerial bartender — champagne service, mid-hoop, mid-air. Which feels exactly right for a disco-themed gala.
Sirreal
Musician
Nanaimo’s Sirreal makes music as medicine. Connection drives his art — the belief that no one should feel alone in their struggle.
Having lost his brother, father, and two best friends to suicide, Sirreal channels that experience into work that meets people where they are. For seven years he has partnered with local schools, speaking to over 12,000 youth about suicide prevention, resilience, and the power of art to get through hard times. By day, he works as an outreach support worker with adults navigating FASD, autism, mental health challenges, and street entrenchment.
His recent releases — the Blue Album, Red Album, and Elixir — span the full emotional spectrum, from raw live-band reckonings to upbeat dancefloor uplift to R&B-driven soul. He has shared stages with B-Real, Tech N9ne, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, T.I., Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Classified, toured ten countries across Europe in 2024, and played festivals including Rifflandia, Laketown Shakedown, and the Calgary Stampede.
- Website: sirreal.ca
- Linktree: linktr.ee/Sirrealmusic
- Spotify: Sirreal on Spotify
- Instagram: @sirrealmusicofficial
Lauren Semple as Andi Rogynous
Drag Performer
A shape-shifter of the stage and no stranger to the spotlight, Lauren Semple is a performer who refuses to be boxed in. With a creative range spanning the triple-threat demands of musical theatre to the subversive spectacle of drag, their work is defined by big energy and a passion for storytelling. Whether appearing as Lauren or their dapper drag king alter-ego, Andi Rogynous, the mission stays the same: captivate, challenge, and connect.
Twenty-five years of acting, singing, and dancing have made Lauren a seasoned powerhouse. They most recently starred as the Emcee in Ladysmith Musical Arts’ sold-out production of Cabaret. As Andi Rogynous, they bring a decade of flashy suits, fancy footwork, and an iconic glitter mustache to every stage — including the acclaimed Unboxing Bravery, a stage show that uses drag to explore gender identity, allyship, and courage.
The creativity doesn’t stop when the curtains close. Lauren’s artistic vision extends from the stage to the canvas — a multidisciplinary force in every sense.
Website: laurensemple.ca/art
Photo credit (BHB Photography)
Myles Laphen
Avant-Garde Fashion Designer
Myles Laphen is not a designer who follows fashion—he bends it, reshapes it, and occasionally dares it to keep up.
His work sits somewhere between avant-garde theatre and high fashion precision, earning him placement in the top ten of a global avant-garde competition and a spot among the top five most published designers in Canada. He has headlined the Contessa Awards and the International Fashion Gala, and as Artistic Director for John Paul Holt, sharpened his ability to merge vision with execution.
At the core of his philosophy is structure with emotion: an architectural backbone—sharp, deliberate, almost sculptural—softened by an undercurrent of storytelling. Fabric, for him, holds tension, memory, and attitude.
Confident, instinct-driven, and drawn to beauty that challenges rather than comforts, Laphen doesn’t just design garments. He constructs experiences—pieces that live somewhere between fashion, identity, and performance.
Afro Fusion Sharqi Danceᵀᴹ
Musician
Tania Amaral
Tania Amaral, also known artistically as PynKsy Shell, was born and raised in Mozambique, in southeastern Africa. She is a passionate dancer, performer, teacher, and cultural educator dedicated to celebrating and promoting African heritage. In 2015, she created a unique dance style called Afro Fusion Sharqi Danceᵀᴹ, which is now officially trademarked. Tania is also the CEO of Africa Day Nanaimo, a vibrant community event that celebrates the richness and diversity of African cultures. She is a two-time nominee for the Woman of Influence Nanaimo in the Arts & Culture category.
About AFSD
An exclusively fusion dance style that blends the diverse dance movements from across Africa.
Jason Morley
Musician
Guitarist and songwriter Jason Morley is a long-time Nanaimo local who was born in England and moved to Canada in his early teens. He enrolled in the Royal Conservatory of Music studying classical guitar. During this time, he played in bands spanning various genres. As an adult, he performed classical guitar at events and started teaching. He studied with metal musician Mike Chlasciak, from Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford’s band, Halford; and taught workshops in advanced lead guitar at community college. He has also worked in partnership with philanthropic charity “Sweet Relief,” which aids working musicians who are surviving through physical or mental disabilities.
Jona Kristinsson
Musician
Raised in Iceland and now rooted on Canada’s West Coast, Jona Kristinsson is a genre-crossing vocalist, drummer, and producer with more than three decades of experience. With a voice that blends grit, soul, and strength, she is a respected band leader and in-demand studio singer who brings authenticity to every performance.
Laura Kelsey
Musician, artist and filmmaker
Vancouver Island art-folk musician Laura Kelsey has fronted everything from metal to folk bands, and she brings these musical influences together to create “earthy magic” inspired by natural West Coast elements, honesty and dreams. With a powerhouse voice, Laura has performed in venues and at festivals across B.C.; and has opened for artists such as Jeff Martin (The Tea Party), Terra Lightfoot and gone on tour with Matthew Good (2022). Her debut studio EP Hunting Season was released in 2023; and her album Hidden Mountains is out this spring.
- Website: www.laurakelsey.com
- Instagram: @lauraksongs
Facebook: /www.facebook.com/LauraKMusic - https://www.youtube.com/@laurakelseymusic
Jonah O’
singer / songwriter / musician
Jonah O’o, a 30-year-old singer-songwriter from Nanaimo, BC, has travelled his music across the island, over the Rockies, through the Badlands of Alberta and Saskatchewan and into the warm glow of Vancouver’s lamp-lit streets before heading back to Nanaimo. His debut album, Shoelaces, released in 2022, is available to stream on all digital music platforms. He’s currently working on his second studio album. From a young age, Jonah discovered that music wasn’t just an outlet but an escape from the constant challenges of his teenage years, growing up with an alcoholic father and a single mother who did everything she could to make ends meet. These experiences haven’t been easy for Jonah, but he believes they’ve helped him learn and grow, not only in his personal life but also in his music.
Celeste
Joshua Holloway/Celeste
Celeste is the cherished drag creation of Nanaimo-based musician, Joshua Holloway. A timeless queen from the silver screen, Celeste is inspired by history’s iconic Hollywood dames: Barbra, Judy, Julie, and Liza.
A graduate of VIU’s esteemed Jazz Program, Celeste is delighted to bring her live vocals to every performance, subverting audiences’ expectations of drag, and connecting with each crowd in an unforgettable way. She recently starred in Dandy’s “Happiest Drag Show on Earth” at The Rio Theatre in Vancouver.
Celeste is beyond honoured to be part of GLITTER2026 in support of Foundry. It’s an incredible show for an incredible cause.
She hopes you love every minute.
Buwa
British Columbia based, Nigerian performer Buwa is an artist you want to keep on your radar. Drawing influences from the late Whitney Houston, as well as Jill Scott, India Arie, Billy Porter, and Brenda Fassie – Buwa is an exciting contemporary soul artist, with pop and R&B sensibilities and a penchant for storytelling, for whom, music has always played an important place. Buwa channels his creativity into poetry and performance art appearing in various stage productions on Vancouver Island where he resides. Most recently the principal role of Lola in the hit musical Kinky Boots. Recognized for his infectious melodies, his versatile voice and captivating song writing, Buwa has released three EPs: Just Call Me Buwa [2023] Olu [2019] and Road Signs [2016], along with handful of captivating singles. He uses his music and talents to change the way the world sees Africa.
- website: www.buwa.ca
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/buwalegend
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/buwalegend
- TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@buwalegend
Contributing Retailers & Supporters
Rumours
Rumours Vintage Collective is located in the heart of Downtown Nanaimo. The shop is collectively owned by four Women, who each bring their own aesthetic and style to the mix.
Rumours Vintage primarily carries true vintage clothing and accessories from the 1970s to Y2k, which gives the shop a great range of styles and selection. All items in the shop are hand-picked, bringing quality, character, and intention to the shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for that special grail piece, a quirky accessory, a pair of cowboy boots, or you simply want to sit in the front lounge and play Duck Hunt – there is something here for every taste, mood and vibe. Rumours always has something new and exciting to discover.
Jonny the barber
“Jonny the barber was born on December 29, 1983, in Red Deer, Alberta. He had a challenging childhood, living with his mother on and off, in foster care, and with his grandparents.
Despite the difficulties, his teenage years were just as tough, but ultimately made him a resilient adult.
Before his grandfather passed away, they had a meaningful conversation about life, during which his grandfather advised him to work smart, not hard, so he could stand up straight in his old age. This conversation inspired Jonny to think about a lifelong career, and he decided to try barbering.
In 2007, he enrolled in hair school, and after graduating, he worked in several salons before specializing in barbering.
By 2019, he was ready to open his own shop, Jonny’s Barber Shop.”
Lucid
LUCID – Style / Substance
“Who says style can’t come with a little substance?”
Archer + Arrow
“A curation of apparel, homewares and truly covetable goods”
- website – https://www.archerandarrow.ca/
- Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/shop.archerandarrow
NY LA Fresh Thread
Welcome to NYLA Fresh Thread
At NYLA Fresh Thread, we’re proud to offer a carefully curated collection of men’s clothing and accessories designed for everyday style, comfort, and quality. Whether you’re updating your wardrobe, searching for a unique gift, or looking for the perfect finishing touch, you’ll find a selection of trusted brands and standout pieces right here in downtown Nanaimo.
Our collection includes:
- Tommy Bahama
- SAXX Underwear
- DUER Performance
- Denim & Pants
- Robert Graham Dress
- Shirts
- Minimum Streetwear
- Dark Seas Apparel
- Goorin Bros. Hats
- Secrid Wallets
- Brave Leather Belts
- Tense Wood Watches
- Stance Socks
- Good Luck Socks
- NYLA Heritage T-Shirts
We specialize in dress-casual menswear that combines comfort, quality, and versatility. From premium denim and dress shirts to everyday essentials and distinctive accessories, our goal is to help you look your best for work, weekends, and every occasion in between.
As an independently owned local business, we take pride in offering personalized service and a relaxed shopping experience tailored to your individual style.
We invite you to visit us at 206 Commercial St in downtown Nanaimo and discover what’s new at NYLA Fresh Thread.
Thank you for supporting local. We look forward to seeing you soon.
La Biosthetique
Indie Entertainment
With Indie Entertainment overseeing musical production, attendees can expect exceptional sound quality throughout the event. Their expertise will contribute to a memorable and beautifully executed musical experience, enhancing the overall atmosphere of GLITTER2026.”
Lucky Cloud
Vintage Clothing: Vintage, Gift, Lifestyle Shop, Housewares, Books, Self Care, Creative Space in Nanaimo
Quintessential Fashion
Welcome to Quintessential! We are a unique boutique in downtown Nanaimo that features women’s clothing, handbags, jewelry, shoes, baby gifts and accessories. Established in 2005, we strive to have an eclectic mix of clothing and accessories for all ages.
my undies
What makes a woman feminine is very subjective, and the selection of pieces in store are curated with individuality in mind.
My Undies is a boutique located right here in downtown Nanaimo. Dedicated to thoughtfully curated lingerie, loungewear and pyjamas that make you feel as good as they make you look, we are proud to support Glitter 2026 and youth mental health in our local community.
- https://myundies.ca/
- Facebook link is https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063579611233
- Instagram is myundieslingerie
Guava
Guava Apparel is a locally owned clothing shop on Commercial Street in downtown Nanaimo. It carries a mix of easy everyday pieces, fun statement styles, and outfits for events or nights out, along with its in-house OMBOYS label. The shop is known for its friendly vibe and helping people find pieces that feel like them. 👗✨
Here are the main links for Guava Apparel so people can easily find and follow the shop:
- Website https://guavaapparel.ca
- Instagram https://instagram.com/guavaapparel
- Facebook https://facebook.com/guavaapparel
- Email shop@guavaapparel.ca
London Coast
Step into a serene escape where elegance meets tropical charm. Our boutique is a curated haven inspired by the lush beauty of island life. Items from clothing, footwear, gift ideas, jewelry and much more
Funk Revival
“Funk Revival is a proudly woman-owned consignment shop in the heart of Nanaimo. Run by the dynamic duo Brooke and Kat, our racks are filled with an eclectic mix of modern and vintage pre-loved clothing—carefully curated so there’s something special for everyone.
At Funk Revival, our mission is simple: to create a safe, inclusive space where all genders, bodies, and styles are celebrated. More than just a shop, we’re a community hub where people can show up exactly as they are and feel welcomed.
As members of the queer community and passionate advocates for mental health, we believe self-expression through clothing should be fun, accessible, and sustainable. Fashion should empower you—not limit you.
Because everyone deserves to feel confident, comfortable, and completely themselves in what they wear.”
Fitz Ave Festival Store
✨️ Fitz Ave is a curated boutique specializing in expressive fashion and event-driven apparel. We bridge the gap between high-energy festival wear and sophisticated international beachwear.
Our mission is to provide a one-stop shop for the unconventional, featuring:
- Festival & Rave Sets: Stand out in the crowd. 🍄🛸
- Travel-Ready Beachwear: For the global wanderer. 🏝 👙
- Theme & Costume Accessories: The details that define the look. 🎭🎩
- Pride Essentials: Celebrating colour and community every day. 🏳️🌈👭
Find something as unique as you are at Fitz Ave! 🦋
Generous Supporters
Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools District
We offer a full range of programs from Kindergarten to Grade 12, and also have programs for preschoolers and adult learners.
Queen City Sisterhood – Order of the Moist Brollie, Victoria BC
From the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence
Mission Statement: To promulgate universal joy and expiate stigmatic guilt.
Originating in San Francisco, Easter Weekend 1979, three men went out into the streets of the Castro District to challenge the world in full traditional habits (left over from a performance of the Sound of Music). That is when they captured everyone’s interest and the rest is history having now grown throughout the US, Canada, Australia, Europe and South America.
You can follow the Victoria Sisters on
- Instagram: YYJ_queencitysisters
- Or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QueenCitySisterhoodVictoria
Aurora Photography - Marjie Armstrong
Hi, I’m Marjie—a Nanaimo-based photographer, a proud mom and a lifelong lover of visual storytelling. I’ve spent the last 30 years chasing light, laughter, and real moments with my camera. Whether I’m capturing a quiet glance, a full-on giggle fit, or a milestone worth remembering, I’m all about making people feel at ease and seen. I live and work on beautiful Vancouver Island and love meeting new faces, especially families, creatives, and fellow weirdos. Oh, and I firmly believe that photography should never feel stiff or stuffy, this should be fun!
Timothy von Boetticher
Musician