Victoria

[Rachel Peters]

I know there are some discussions on Victoria BC, but they're also pretty old.

I need to know everything.

I'm a spontanious freak and may take off in a week, but I don't want to show up and realize I can't work.

Permits?
Pitches?

Need info, if anyone's got it.

I'd be doing chalk.

[Rachel Peters]

Hmmm. I'm hearing more and it's sounding pretty closed off -- for Inner Harbour, anyway.

Probably a little early in the season too, to just show up somewhere.

[jeep caillouet]

b.c.

I worked there in '91 . It was great. you can also work at Grandville Island, Robson St., the steam powered clock,the zoo ,as well as other places. Nick Nickolas was there at the same time.He may be able to hook you up with more info.

[Rachel Peters]

I hope Sharon doesn't mind me quoting her.

She tells me,

"Victoria, it's a closed shop, like boston, the license cost about 400 dollars for the summer and you need public liability for north america.
They have capped it and I don't think they are taking any more performers.
Also, there is no amplification at all,... which sucks if use music.
Having said the above with regards to the inner harbour, where most of the shows happens. The inner harbour was taken over by a private company a few years ago called the Harbour Authority and hence all the new rules.
On government street and the top of the harbour, you can still obtain a license from the city for approx 20 dollars, I never work up there, so not really sure what to say, they are smaller pitches and still no amplification.
as for Granville island, you have to submit and apply for the summer program, the deadline was the end of March the program is called SEGI and they usually only admit polished acts for weekend spots. You can though get a license and work during the week and go to the draw.
You can find the contact for Granville island on Granville island cultural society search and find gi buskers."

So, I'll need to dig a little longer and talk to more people before I figure out what my chances are of getting on a pitch where I can do chalk -- you know, hours and days, rather than switching up every half an hour and stuff.
Those Government Street and on top of the harbour smaller pitches are probably MY best bet for anything. And I really should wait until it's deeper into tourist season. pththth. It's warm and i want to move about. guuuuhhh.