Latest news with #DreamFactory
Winnipeg Free Press
11-08-2025
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Taking on the heavy lifting for sick kids
Between his family and his four businesses, Devin Penner has a full schedule, but he still makes time to volunteer. 'I'm a sucker for it,' he says. Whether it's hosting fundraisers, organizing strength competitions or playing bass in the worship band at church, Penner likes to lend a hand. It's how he was raised. 'If you have a talent or a gift and you can help somebody, you give your time and you help somebody,' the 37-year-old St. Malo resident says. 'My parents are big on that (and) my wife has supported me on that.' These days, Penner is excited about the seventh-annual Deadlifts for Dreams fundraiser in support of the Dream Factory. The event has raised more than $200,000 for the Winnipeg-based charity, which fulfils the dreams of Manitoba children battling life-threatening illnesses. The 2025 edition takes place Sept. 13 at Training Grounds Gym, the fitness facility Penner owns in St. Malo. (Penner also owns a siding and eavestrough business, a building-supply delivery company and a stucco business.) The goal is to raise $50,000 for Otsonen, a five-year-old who was diagnosed two years ago with STAT1 Gain of Function, an immunodeficiency with debilitating symptoms. Also known as 'Oats,' Otsonen's dream is to go on a Disney cruise. Participants pay a $50 registration fee and commit to raising funds for the cause. On the day of the event, each participant will do three deadlifts — a strength exercise in which a loaded barbell is lifted off the ground to the level of the hips. The following is a list of volunteer opportunities for Winnipeg and surrounding areas. For more information about these listings, contact the organization directly. Volunteer Manitoba does not place volunteers with organizations but can help people find opportunities. To learn more about its programs and services, go to or call 204-477-5180. The following is a list of volunteer opportunities for Winnipeg and surrounding areas. For more information about these listings, contact the organization directly. Volunteer Manitoba does not place volunteers with organizations but can help people find opportunities. To learn more about its programs and services, go to or call 204-477-5180. The Bell Tower Community Café, a hub for area residents, needs musicians to volunteer their talents at community events. Performances are held on a stage on the second floor of 745 Westminster Ave. from mid-September to mid-June, and on the lawn during the summer months. The café provides sound systems and microphones. Musicians of all styles are invited, but they should remember the diverse audience. Events are held every second Friday, with music starting at 6:30 p.m. and lasting about 45 minutes. Volunteers are not required to attend every event. Email volunteercoordinatorbtcc@ by Aug. 31. The Manitoba Fibre Festival needs volunteers to help with setup, greeting guests and supporting vendors and workshops at Red River Exhibition Place from Sept. 4 to Sept. 6. Apply at by Sept. 1. The Sickle Circle of Manitoba needs volunteers for Andrea's Angel Walk, which is happening in Kildonan Park on Sept. 6. Roles include setting up, helping with registration, guiding walkers and supporting the community barbecue. The commitment is five hours that day, and two one-hour Zoom meetings to discuss roles and duties. The volunteers must work well in a team, be comfortable using sign-in sheets, have good communication skills and be willing to jump in where needed. Apply at by Sept. 5. The Red River zone of the Canadian Ski Patrol provides first-aid services in southern Manitoba at the Springhill, Holiday Mountain and Falcon Ridge ski hills, and at the Windsor Park Nordic Centre. It also provides first-aid services for a variety of events that extend over the summer months, including duathlons, cycling events, running events, sports competitions and festivals. Advanced first-aid training is provided. To learn more, attend the open house at Sport Manitoba from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sept. 15 or go to The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority needs assistants at the Breast Health Centre in St. Boniface. Volunteers welcome clients and their families, guiding them through appointments and explaining available amenities. They also help staff members ensure smooth client flow and handle related tasks. The role requires virtual and in-person training and engaging with people from diverse backgrounds supportively. Volunteers gain health-care skills. They must commit to four shifts per month during business hours, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Apply at by Sept. 30. The Ecuadorian Association of Manitoba needs volunteers who speak Spanish or are passionate about the culture to help with events. The position is an opportunity to gain experience in event management. People are welcome to apply at any time, but to participate in events this summer and fall, they should apply at volunteer@ or this month. Special Olympics Manitoba needs coaches who are energetic and passionate about sport, and have a couple of hours per week to spare. Head and assistant coaches are needed for swimming, five-in bowling, FUNdamentals (ages 7 to 12), junior basketball and junior athletics in Winnipeg for the fall/winter 2025-26 season. Head and assistant coaches are needed for floorball in Stonewall. No experience is needed because training will be provided. Email volunteer co-ordinator Emma at ewedlake@ by Aug. 31. Canada's largest volunteer-led event for breast cancer — the CIBC Run for the Cure, in support of the Canadian Cancer Society — returns Oct. 5. Volunteers are needed to help plan and lead events across the country. To explore available positions, go to The application deadline is the day of the event. The Canadian Red Cross Society needs volunteers in Manitoba for programs such as Smart Start and Disaster Risk Reduction. These roles involve leading sessions on climate change and emergency preparedness, and require effective communication skills and cultural sensitivity. Volunteers might also join the emergency responder and personal disaster assistance teams to help during disasters. Training and background checks are mandatory. This opportunity offers experience in public speaking and crisis management. Send a resumé to SmartStart@ by Dec. 31. In addition to providing the venue and equipment for the last four years, Penner sits on the Deadlifts for Dreams organizing committee, recruits sponsors and consistently ranks as one of the top three fundraisers. Penner 'does everything and asks for literally nothing in return,' says David Beakley, who started Deadlifts for Dreams in 2019. 'He's always on the go, he's always helping people — he's a (give you the) shirt off his back kind of guy,' says Beakley, who has known Penner for more than a decade. 'A guy like that never asks for recognition or anything (but) deserves it so much.' Penner says he has a special interest in supporting causes that benefit children who are ill. Morgan, the eldest of Penner's two teenage daughters, was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis when she was 18 months old. As a result, the family has spent a lot of time at Winnipeg's Health Sciences Centre. Monday Mornings The latest local business news and a lookahead to the coming week. 'It's been a journey and HSC has been amazing,' Penner says, adding that he and his family feel fortunate. 'In the realm of disabilities it's very small, it's very minute.' Penner is looking forward to Sept. 13. He enjoys seeing the way his friends and fellow gym-goers show up to make Deadlifts for Dreams a spectator-friendly event that's fun for all ages (including outdoor activities for children and a barbecue at the end of the day). 'We're a bunch of big, tattooed meatheads,' Penner says. 'You get seen in public and (people think), 'These guys are scary,' but you get us in the gym and we're always willing to help.' Deadlifts for Dreams is still looking for lifters, fundraisers and sponsors. Visit or email chelsea@ to get involved. If you know a special volunteer, email Aaron EppReporter Aaron Epp reports on business for the Free Press. After freelancing for the paper for a decade, he joined the staff full-time in 2024. He was previously the associate editor at Canadian Mennonite. Read more about Aaron. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
The Australian
28-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Australian
Bentley's EXP 15 concept previews luxury brand's electric future
Bentley's drive for the future is as bold as its vehicles. A daring new concept car, the EXP 15, paves the road ahead for a brand that has juggled tech and tradition for decades. Though Bentley originally planned to release its first EV in 2025, we are still waiting to see what form that car will take. Like many brands, Bentley has pushed back its electrification plan to make sure it delivers something customers are ready for. Bentley's EXP 15 concept. Picture: Supplied Bentley factory in Crewe. (Picture: Supplied) MORE: Jet pilot tech tested for drivers The company is now focusing on a new goal of offering a complete line-up of electric vehicles by 2035. A key detail in the company's strategy is to ensure that the Bentley Dream Factory in Crewe is fully operational for EV production by the time they start rolling out their first EV product. Bentley has recently opened a new paint shop and an 'Excellence Centre for Quality and Launch', marking a significant milestone in transforming the 85-year-old site for a new era of electrification. Bentley says the new facilities aim to set a new benchmark in next-generation, digital, flexible, and high-value manufacturing operations. it is now shifting its focus to constructing a new logistics centre, with the completion timeline aimed for later this year. We still don't know much about the new full-electric vehicle being launched in 2026, except that it is a luxury urban SUV. Bentley's factory in Crewe. Picture: Supplied The brand prides itself on attention to detail. Picture: Supplied Bentley recently revealed the EXP 15 concept electric vehicle, which gives us the best idea yet of what the brand's first EV might look like. The EXP 15 draws design inspiration from the marque's renowned 'Blue Train' Speed Six of 1930 and features an all-electric, all-wheel-drive powertrain that will ultimately replace its iconic V8 and W12 engines. Bentley's EXP 15 concept points to an electric future. Picture: Supplied The EXP 15 concept has bold styling. Picture: Supplied MORE: Luxury vans to shock Australia With its radical three-door layout and emphasis on tactile controls, the EXP 15 offers an exciting preview of Bentley's commitment to performance and luxury in an electric era. Bentley's design director Robin Page said the car is an opportunity to explore new approaches. 'It's clear the SUVs are a growing segment, and we understand the GT market (through four generations of Continental GT), but the trickiest segment is the sedan because it's changing,' he said. 'Some customers want a classic 'three-box' sedan shape, others a 'one-box design, and others again something more elevated. 'The EXP 15 falls somewhere in between, with raised ride height and a sloped fastback-style roof line, but many familiar elements from Bentley's two-door and four-door models.' At the front, slim vertical LED lights frame a bold new take on Bentley's iconic upright grille. Bentley has chosen to retain the upright grille as a way to maintain one of its most iconic design elements. Although electric vehicles do not require a grille for cooling, Page noted that the grille would evolve into a form of 'digital art.' EXP 15 concept. (Picture: Supplied) Behind it, it retains Bentley's signature 'endless' bonnet line, but rather than hiding a combustion engine, it conceals two luggage compartments beneath piano-hinged covers inspired by the 1930 Bentley Gurney Nutting coupe. The top of the bonnet also debuts Bentley's new logo. At the back of the car, the pillars beside the rear window taper inward, giving it a sleek 'boattail' shape that enhances the wide rear wheel arches. The tailgate features two high-mounted spoilers that connect seamlessly to slim, C-shaped tail-lights. These lights frame a new design element known as the 'Prestigious Shield,' which showcases the Bentley badge. Inside, the EXP 15 features a radical three-door, three-seat layout, which takes inspiration from the one-off 'Blue Train' Speed Six. EXP 15 concept. (Picture: Supplied) MORE: The best car of the 21st century There's a single door on the driver's side in true coupe style, while the passenger side gets a two-door saloon set up. How does this configuration make logical sense? Well, according to the brand, it does. Here's why. Bentleys are traditionally bought by people who like to drive themselves and occasionally be driven. The least important seat in the car is the front passenger's, so it's been replaced with a luxury pet bed or additional luggage storage space. EXP 15 concept. (Picture: Supplied) The dashboard is shaped like the Bentley wings and includes physical tactile switches, as customers are increasingly tired of digital buttons and prefer the responsiveness of physical controls. Bentley has not released specific technical details about the EXP 15's powertrain, but the confirmed all-wheel-drive electric system, likely featuring two motors, suggests that Bentley's future EVs will uphold their legacy of both performance and luxury. Although the EXP 15 is just a concept and won't be arriving at any dealerships in Australia, we can expect to see features from this innovative design integrated into the luxury brand's first electric vehicle. James Chung Digital Content Creator James is a Digital Content Creator at and is part of the News Corp Australia's digital real estate team. His previous experience includes working for Sky News Australia.
News.com.au
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- News.com.au
How Bentley is preparing for the electrified era
Bentley's drive for the future is as bold as its vehicles. A daring new concept car, the EXP 15, paves the road ahead for a brand that has juggled tech and tradition for decades. Though Bentley originally planned to release its first EV in 2025, we are still waiting to see what form that car will take. Like many brands, Bentley has pushed back its electrification plan to make sure it delivers something customers are ready for. The company is now focusing on a new goal of offering a complete line-up of electric vehicles by 2035. A key detail in the company's strategy is to ensure that the Bentley Dream Factory in Crewe is fully operational for EV production by the time they start rolling out their first EV product. Bentley has recently opened a new paint shop and an 'Excellence Centre for Quality and Launch', marking a significant milestone in transforming the 85-year-old site for a new era of electrification. Bentley says the new facilities aim to set a new benchmark in next-generation, digital, flexible, and high-value manufacturing operations. it is now shifting its focus to constructing a new logistics centre, with the completion timeline aimed for later this year. We still don't know much about the new full-electric vehicle being launched in 2026, except that it is a luxury urban SUV. Bentley recently revealed the EXP 15 concept electric vehicle, which gives us the best idea yet of what the brand's first EV might look like. The EXP 15 draws design inspiration from the marque's renowned 'Blue Train' Speed Six of 1930 and features an all-electric, all-wheel-drive powertrain that will ultimately replace its iconic V8 and W12 engines. With its radical three-door layout and emphasis on tactile controls, the EXP 15 offers an exciting preview of Bentley's commitment to performance and luxury in an electric era. Bentley's design director Robin Page said the car is an opportunity to explore new approaches. 'It's clear the SUVs are a growing segment, and we understand the GT market (through four generations of Continental GT), but the trickiest segment is the sedan because it's changing,' he said. 'Some customers want a classic 'three-box' sedan shape, others a 'one-box design, and others again something more elevated. 'The EXP 15 falls somewhere in between, with raised ride height and a sloped fastback-style roof line, but many familiar elements from Bentley's two-door and four-door models.' At the front, slim vertical LED lights frame a bold new take on Bentley's iconic upright grille. Bentley has chosen to retain the upright grille as a way to maintain one of its most iconic design elements. Although electric vehicles do not require a grille for cooling, Page noted that the grille would evolve into a form of 'digital art.' Behind it, it retains Bentley's signature 'endless' bonnet line, but rather than hiding a combustion engine, it conceals two luggage compartments beneath piano-hinged covers inspired by the 1930 Bentley Gurney Nutting coupe. The top of the bonnet also debuts Bentley's new logo. At the back of the car, the pillars beside the rear window taper inward, giving it a sleek 'boattail' shape that enhances the wide rear wheel arches. The tailgate features two high-mounted spoilers that connect seamlessly to slim, C-shaped tail-lights. These lights frame a new design element known as the 'Prestigious Shield,' which showcases the Bentley badge. Inside, the EXP 15 features a radical three-door, three-seat layout, which takes inspiration from the one-off 'Blue Train' Speed Six. There's a single door on the driver's side in true coupe style, while the passenger side gets a two-door saloon set up. How does this configuration make logical sense? Well, according to the brand, it does. Here's why. Bentleys are traditionally bought by people who like to drive themselves and occasionally be driven. The least important seat in the car is the front passenger's, so it's been replaced with a luxury pet bed or additional luggage storage space. The dashboard is shaped like the Bentley wings and includes physical tactile switches, as customers are increasingly tired of digital buttons and prefer the responsiveness of physical controls. Bentley has not released specific technical details about the EXP 15's powertrain, but the confirmed all-wheel-drive electric system, likely featuring two motors, suggests that Bentley's future EVs will uphold their legacy of both performance and luxury. Although the EXP 15 is just a concept and won't be arriving at any dealerships in Australia, we can expect to see features from this innovative design integrated into the luxury brand's first electric vehicle.
Cision Canada
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
Chinese Canadian Museum Celebrates Canada's Role in Three Golden Decades of Cantopop and Mandopop's Global Musical Revolution
Launching Wednesday, May 28, 2025 , and running through to May 31, 2026 , from dazzling music videos and glamorous fashion to the unforgettable voices of Cantopop superstars like Anita Mui , Leslie Cheung and Faye Wong , Dream Factory explores the three-decade rise of popular music sung in Cantonese and Mandarin, and the role Canadians played in the cultural era. Originating in Hong Kong and inspired by Western genres, Cantopop and Mandopop resonated far beyond its geographic origins, shaped the Asian entertainment industry and ignited a global music revolution. More than just music, Cantopop and Mandopop were the nostalgic soundtracks of growing up Chinese in Canada . Dream Factory reclaims these histories by exploring how Chinese Canadian youth connected with pop idols like Jacky Cheung , Andy Lau , Sally Yeh , and Sam Hui — icons who bridged continents and hearts — as well as the many Chinese Canadians who were actively involved in the industry whether in front of the camera, on the stage, or behind the scenes. "Cantopop and Mandopop weren't just music — they were lifelines," says Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee , CEO of the Chinese Canadian Museum. "At a time when waves of immigrants from Hong Kong , Taiwan , and mainland China were arriving in Vancouver — from the late 1960s through the 2000s — these songs carried the pulse of home. They helped newcomers navigate a new world while staying rooted in who they were. The voices of Anita Mui , Leslie Cheung , and Faye Wong didn't just echo through radios — they echoed across generations, linking parents to children, and memories to futures. This music connected the Chinese diaspora in ways no passport ever could." Curated by Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee with Yilin Chen and Bofei Zhang, Dream Factory features a dynamic mix of vintage album art, music videos, eclectic fashion, fan memorabilia, the original hand-written scores of Chinese Canadian composer Joseph Koo and unique installations by contemporary artists, this exhibition tells the story of cross-Pacific cultural exchange — fueled by waves of immigration, family ties, and the global power of pop. "As a cultural museum, our exhibitions aim to reflect the Chinese Canadian identity and stories of lived experiences," explains Grace Wong , Board Chair of the Chinese Canadian Museum. "Cantopop and Mandopop played an important role in helping Chinese Canadians feel connected to their places of origin and to each other, reflecting their struggles, hopes and dreams and offering comfort, connection, and a sense of identity. As a museum, we are honoured to spotlight how this beloved music genre resonated across generations and continents, connecting heritage with home." Set against the backdrop of Chinese Canadian communities — long a hub of transnational culture — Dream Factory invites visitors to step into a dazzling, immersive space that celebrates the glam, grit, and genius of a golden era in Asian pop. This is not just a retrospective — it's a reclamation of a cultural history that belongs at the heart of Canada's story. The Dream Factory feature exhibition highlights include: Fashion Meets Music spotlights the bold vision of six Chinese Canadian fashion designers, including Charlotte Chang , Bev Huynh , Stephanie Kong , Tina Tam , Ric Yuenn , and the iconic Vancouver Chinatown tailoring store, Modernize Tailors . From vintage glam to streetwear edge, their designs reimagine the visual language of Cantopop and Mandopop. spotlights the bold vision of six Chinese Canadian fashion designers, including , , , , , and the iconic Vancouver Chinatown tailoring store, . From vintage glam to streetwear edge, their designs reimagine the visual language of Cantopop and Mandopop. Legendary Sounds - A full-height LED sound wall anchors this immersive space, pulsing with custom-built 1980s-style speakers. Visitors are enveloped in a video projection playlist that brings Cantopop's most beloved stars — Anita Mui , Leslie Cheung , Faye Wong , and others — vividly to life. Their electrifying rock ballads, synth-driven dance tracks, and emotionally charged duets became the soundtrack of longing, rebellion, and joy for a generation of Chinese Canadians. At the heart of it all is a tribute to legendary composer Chinese Canadian Joseph Koo , whose unforgettable handwritten scores defined the cinematic and musical soundscape of Hong Kong's golden era and reverberated through the diaspora. A full-height LED sound wall anchors this immersive space, pulsing with custom-built 1980s-style speakers. Visitors are enveloped in a video projection playlist that brings Cantopop's most beloved stars — , , , and others — vividly to life. Their electrifying rock ballads, synth-driven dance tracks, and emotionally charged duets became the soundtrack of longing, rebellion, and joy for a generation of Chinese Canadians. At the heart of it all is a tribute to legendary composer Chinese Canadian , whose unforgettable handwritten scores defined the cinematic and musical soundscape of golden era and reverberated through the diaspora. Contemporary Art and Film Commissions showcases a show-stopping stage installation by internationally acclaimed artist Ming Wong and Liam Morgan and features vibrant new visual artworks by Bagua Artist Association and commissioned paintings by Ho Tam — a vibrant tribute to the bold aesthetics, emotional intensity, and nostalgic glamour and spectacle of Cantopop performance culture. A new Leslie Cheung documentary by Black Rhino Creative captures the iconic sound, star power, and cultural legacy of the pop singer Leslie Cheung , a voice and star that connected generations across borders. Dream Factory goes beyond the exhibition space with dynamic public programs, including live musical performances, karaoke nights, theatre productions, and film screenings. Educational initiatives such as drama lessons for children, school tours, interactive workshops, and documentary screenings provide opportunities for deeper engagement with the themes of the exhibition. The museum's new retail gift shop, 1889 Trading Co., is also open to the public featuring a curated selection of unique cultural gifts and museum products that celebrate Chinese Canadian heritage. From locally handcrafted artisan creators to exclusive exhibition-inspired one-of-a-kind pieces, the shop is designed to extend the cultural stories found within the museum's walls. The Dream Factory exhibition is made possible by the generous support of the Province of British Columbia and Din Tai Fung North America . For more information about the Chinese Canadian Museum and its current exhibitions, please visit . About the Chinese Canadian Museum | The Chinese Canadian Museum Society of British Columbia is an independent, non-profit organization established in March 2020 to create a museum honouring and sharing Chinese Canadian history, contributions, and living heritage. Guided by its mission statement "Connecting to the Chinese Canadian story – addressing inclusion for all", the Chinese Canadian Museum aspires to provide an invigorating and transformative experience for present and future generations through its exhibitions and educational programming throughout B.C. and Canada . The first of its kind in Canada , the Chinese Canadian Museum opened to the public in 2023, and is located in the historic Wing Sang Building in Vancouver Chinatown. Instagram: @ccmuseumbc Facebook: @ChineseCanadianMuseum Linkedin: @ChineseCanadianMuseum SOURCE Chinese Canadian Museum Media contact: Yvonne Chiang, [email protected]
The Province
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Province
Anita Mui, Leslie Cheung, Andy Lau: Cantopop's pop idols showcased in Vancouver Chinatown museum
The exhibition celebrates Canada's role in the global music phenomenon Melissa Lee, CEO oft he Chinese Canadian Museum with the new exhibit, "Dream Factory: Cantopop Mandopop 1980s-2000." Photo by NICK PROCAYLO / Postmedia News For countless Canadian Chinese, the soundtrack of their childhood takes centre stage at Vancouver's Chinese Canadian Museum, where a new exhibit celebrating the rise of Cantopop music opens Wednesday. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Dream Factory: Cantopop Mandopop 1980s-2000s showcases popular music sung in Cantonese and Mandarin that swept Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, and the communities of the Chinese diaspora in Canada and around the world. For many immigrants to Canada, the music carried 'the pulse of home,' said curator Melissa Karmen Lee. 'This is in many ways an exhibition for our parents,' for that generation 'who immigrated and left behind homes to come here and rebuilt their lives,' said Lee. 'It provides an emotional connection they could reach across and have.' Lee's parents came to Canada in 1967, part of an early wave of immigration from Hong Kong. For the Canadian-born Lee and her generation who grew up in Canada, astride both worlds, the music is more than nostalgia. Essential reading for hockey fans who eat, sleep, Canucks, repeat. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'It's honouring the cultural heritage of our parents and the fact that this mix of being Chinese and growing up in Canada and listening to some Chinese music and western music is really what it means to be Chinese Canadian.' Many of the pop stars that defined the genre — and those working behind the scenes — weren't just from Hong Kong, Taiwan or China, but were products of the Chinese diaspora. That's something the exhibit highlights, said Lee, so people understand that while the genre is 'viewed as an Asian phenomenon, many of these singers had Canadian roots and Canadian ties.' Sally Yeh in 2003. Handout That includes Cantopop diva Sally Yeh, who was born in Taiwan and grew up in Victoria. Early in her career, she did not know how to read and write Chinese and had to write out English phonetics to Cantonese lyrics. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. There's also Chinese Canadian composer Joseph Koo, who has been called Godfather of Cantopop for his musical creations that defined Hong Kong in the 70s and 80s. And pop icon Leslie Cheung who, at the height of his career, moved to Vancouver. To this day, fans make a pilgrimage to a memorial bench outside one of his favourite spots, the Teahouse at Stanley Park, on the anniversary of his death. Joseph Koo in 2006. Photo by Handout / Vancouver Sun The exhibition includes a mix of installations by Chinese Canadian artists, vintage album art, music videos, and fan memorabilia. Original handwritten scores by Koo, who died in Metro Vancouver in 2023 at age 91, are displayed. Hundreds of artists are featured in various ways throughout the exhibition, including music legends Teresa Teng, Anita Mui and Faye Wong and the Four Heavenly Kings of Cantopop, Jacky Cheung, Andy Lau, Leon Lai and Aaron Kwok. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. A fashion section shows the work of Chinese Canadian designers who redesigned some of the costumes worn by the pop superstars. There's a floor-to-ceiling LED sound wall with custom-built 1980s-style speakers playing Cantopop hits, with hundreds more accessible at listening stations where visitors can be immersed in the music of that age. Leslie Cheung in Vancouver in 1999 Photo by Peter Battistoni / Vancouver Sun For Lee, who described the exhibit as her 'dream exhibit, the one I always knew I wanted to do,' the connection was personal. She vividly remembers going with her parents' to their friends' homes and playing with other kids to the strains of Cantopop. One song resonated: Cheung's bright and bouncy 1986 chart-topping hit, Monica. 'It's this pivotal song, which is on our exhibition, and I remember we as seven- and eight-year olds just dancing to this song,' said Lee. 'That's a core memory of mine.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. And not just hers. According to Lee's research, there was a boom that year of Chinese Canadian baby girls named Monica. Listening to Cantopop perhaps set Chinese Canadians apart from mainstream Canadian culture back in the 80s and 90s, but that's something Lee wants to reclaim as part of Canada's story. 'The music always has been a key part of culture an Canadian culture, but in many ways it was left out,' she said. 'But it was so emotional and important and sparked the imagination of many in the Chinese Canadian community.' Dream Factory runs to May 31, 2026 at the Chinese Canadian Museum at the Wing Sang building in Vancouver's Chinatown. Also on exhibit: A Soldier for All Seasons, on the third floor, which features overlooked stories of Chinese Canadian soldiers in the Second World War. chchan@ Read More News Vancouver Canucks Hockey Vancouver Canucks News
