Vancouver, BC
November 18, 2026
Vancouver Fall 2026
An evening of stories and ideas that invite you to see your life with fresh eyes.

Our storytellers

Tamara Taggart
Broadcaster | Advocate | Changemaker ~ Host of Telus Talks with Tamara Taggart
SESSION:
Starting Over, Without Starting From Scratch
Your next chapter begins with everything you’ve learned.
Brent Butt
Actor | Writer | Master of Observation ~ Creator of Corner Gas
SESSION:
Small Shifts, Big Laughs
It Turns Out Everything Will Be Fine
Jen Sookfong Lee
Bestselling Author | Broadcaster | Cultural Commentator ~ Columnist & Host CBC Radio One
SESSION:
What We Carry Forward
Every family passes something down.
Sirish Rao
Imagineer | Curator | Community Builder ~ Co-CEO, Vancouver Art Gallery
SESSION:
The Cartography of Unexpected Things
On following curiosity when the map runs out.
John Fluevog
Founder and Creative Visionary, John Fuevog Shoes
SESSION:
The Shape of Things
Design, life, and the forces that change both
Lucia Frangione
Playwright | Storyteller | Actor
SESSION:
It's never too late to change your adjectives
When the words that once defined you no longer fit.
Beverley Elliott
Actor | Singer | Storyteller
SESSION:
You Never Know What’s Coming
Life rarely follows the script we imagined.
Carolyn Arends
Singer | Songwriter | Author ~ Renovaré Director of Education
SESSION:
To Cry For You
Love, loss, and the things that remain
Dr. Ali Behmard
Dentist | Entrepreneur | Survivor ~ Founder, Behmard Dentistry
SESSION:
Chasing Approval
A story about achievement, identity, and the hunger to be enough.
Peter Reek
Curator | Author | Convener ~ Founder of SHIFT Sessions
SESSION:
The Courage We Carry.
What we inherit beyond DNA.
Jae Kim
Advisor | Connector | Catalyst ~ Principal, JK Philanthropy Advisory
SESSION:
Our Emcee for the Evening
Your guide through an evening of stories, laughter and unexpected turns
DJ Pri
Musical Instigator | Keeper of the Vibe
SESSION:
Let the music play.
The SHIFT Sessions is a travelling series of short talks, honest conversations, and hometown stories told by the people rooted in each city. No fluff. Just ideas and stories that help us see midlife with new eyes.

What's included

Every SHIFT Sessions ticket includes:

  • An unforgettable evening of live storytelling at the Vancouver Playhouse
  • 8–10 carefully curated speakers sharing authentic stories of life's defining shifts
  • A professionally produced theatre experience with exceptional sound, lighting, and visuals
  • Stories that are inspiring, thought-provoking, and deeply human
  • Live music woven throughout the evening
  • A printed program featuring each speaker
  • Opportunities to connect with fellow attendees before the show and during intermission
  • Access to sponsor activations and special giveaways
  • A few surprises along the way

You'll leave with fresh perspectives, meaningful conversations, and stories that stay with you long after the curtain falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SHIFT Sessions?
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SHIFT Sessions is an evening of short, story-driven talks about life, change, ageing, reinvention and what matters most. Think less conference, more beautifully curated night of stories.

When and where is it happening?
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SHIFT Sessions takes place on Wednesday, November 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM at the Vancouver Playhouse.

What time should I arrive?
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Doors will open one hours before the program begins. We recommend arriving early enough to check in, find your seat and settle in without rushing.

How long is the event?
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The evening will run approximately three hours, including a short intermission.

Is seating assigned?
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At the Vancouver Playhouse seating is assigned. - you will choose your seats when buying your tickets.

Who is the event for?
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SHIFT Sessions is for anyone curious about the next chapter of life, especially those navigating midlife, transition, reinvention or a growing sense that something may be ready to shift.

What kind of speakers will there be?
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The evening brings together writers, artists, entrepreneurs, thinkers and people with remarkable lived experience. Each speaker shares a personal story rather than delivering a traditional presentation.

Will the talks be recorded?
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Some or all of the sessions may be photographed or recorded. Attendees should be aware that they may appear incidentally in event footage.

Is there an intermission?
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Yes. There will be a brief intermission during the evening.

Will food and drinks be available?
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Beverages and light refreshments will be available for purchase before the event and during intermission.

Is the venue accessible?
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Yes. The Vancouver Playhouse offers accessible seating and venue access. Guests requiring specific accommodations should contact us in advance.

What should I wear?
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Come as you are. Smart casual works well, but there is no formal dress code.

Can I come alone?
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Absolutely. Many guests attend on their own, and the evening is designed to feel welcoming and communal.

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?
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Tickets may be transferred to another guest. Contact us before the event with the updated attendee information.

Are tickets refundable?
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Tickets are typically non-refundable but may be transferable.

Can I bring someone who is younger or older than the core SHIFT audience?
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Of course. While the themes are especially relevant to midlife, the stories are intended for anyone interested in living with greater curiosity and intention.

Will there be books or merchandise available?
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Selected books from speakers and SHIFT Into Life may be available for purchase at the event.

How can I stay informed about event updates?
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Ticket holders will receive important details by email leading up to the event. Add the sender to your contacts so updates do not land in spam.

About the venue

Vancouver Playhouse

The Vancouver Playhouse is an intimate 668-seat theatre in the heart of downtown Vancouver. With excellent sightlines, warm acoustics and a stage that feels close from every seat, it is an ideal setting for an evening of powerful stories and genuine connection. The venue is also wheelchair accessible, with accessible seating and support available for guests with mobility needs. Address: 600 Hamilton Street, Vancouver. Get Directions.

Sponsors