About The Festival

Every year, for one week, The Cultch is taken over and transformed by young people. Hundreds of youth are involved in what has grown to be Vancouver’s largest youth-driven arts festival. The festival includes showcases in music, dance, and spoken word, the world premiere of three one-act plays, a visual arts exhibit, variety shows featuring diverse forms of entertainment, and much more. All of this is created by local artists between the ages of 13-24. During the festival, IGNITE! events happen all over The Cultch’s facilities such as the Historic Theatre, the Vancity Cultre Lab, the main lobby and the café galleries.

Literally every aspect of the festival is youth-driven, produced by the Cultch’s Youth Panel. From media relations and promotion, to stage managing and running the lighting and sound boards, there are countless ways to become involved, whether on stage or behind the scenes. This year’s festival is taking place from May 14th to May 19th. Contact Youth Program Manager, Robert Leveroos, at robert@thecultch.com to learn more.

Young people working behind the scenes during the IGNITE! Festival.

Young people in The Cultch during IGNITE! festival.