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ON STAGE

BANGER -- The Power Hour

Where: Firehall Arts Centre, 280 E. Cordova St.

Why: Actor-writer-dancer Tara Cheyenne Friedenberg's comic one-woman play depicts a teenaged boy's heavy-metal journey through the pains and insecurities of high school. She takes on several roles, morphing from sexy siren to swaggering man in combat boots.

When: 8 p.m. nightly until Saturday

Tickets: $24/$20 at the Firehall box office, 604-689-0926 or www.firehallartscentre.ca

COMEDY

Tops and Bottoms

Where: Jupiter Lounge, 1216 Bute St.

Why: The queer comedy troupe pits four experienced improv pros against four up-and-comers. As the mental gymnastics and comedy sketches are performed the audience gets to decide which of the bottoms have what it takes to play with the professionals and which of the tops are off their game and must step down.

When: 8 p.m. Wednesdays

Tickets: $8 at the door

SHMOOZE

Martini Madness

Where: Celebrities Nightclub, 1022 Davie St.

Why: This annual party organized by Women in Film and Video Vancouver serves as the shmooze before the storm of the Vancouver International Film Festival, which kicks off tomorrow night. About 1,000 writers, director, producers and actors get together for libations, live music and some semi-relaxed celebration just before they have to throw themselves into promoting their festival offerings.

When: 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Tickets: In advance at www.womeninfilm.ca for $30 or $35 at the door.

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