PRISMA Schedule 2025

June 13-28, 2025, will take place in Powell River, BC, an inspiring rural oasis.

PRISMA 2025 Daily Schedule 

Here is the approximate daily schedule for the PRISMA Festival (the schedule may vary). You will receive the detailed schedule one or two weeks prior to the festival

09:00 – 12:15 Orchestra Rehearsal

12:30 – 13:30 Lunch

13:30 – 17:45 Limelight concert/masterclass/sectional rehearsal/private class

17:45 – 18:30 Dinner

18:30 – 21:30 Concert/Concerto Competition/Workshop

Students will have a free day on Sundays

Individual practice rooms will open from 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. You may practice if you have no schedule arranged during that time – each practice time is limited to one hour. Sign-up in advance is required each day. The complex closes at 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Because individual practice time during PRISMA is limited, we ask that students come fully prepared to uphold our high-quality standards.

Arrival Information

Students are required to arrive one day before the festival starts and leave one day after the festival ends.

For the PRISMA Festival 2025, students have to be in Vancouver, BC, Canada, on June 12, 2025, and leave Vancouver on June 29, 2025 (please choose the flight that departs at 3 PM onwards). For more details, please see the “Transportation to PRISMA.”

You can check your flight availability through the Google Flight website.

Travel to Canada

Regarding travel to Canada, please ensure that you complete a visitor visa or eTA requirements for entering Canada: 

• This is the website to apply for an eTA: 

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html. You do not need to apply for an eTA if you need a visitor visa to enter Canada.

If you are bringing food, I thoroughly recommend you declare it. Dried kinds of seafood are allowed, and meat products are restricted. Please check restricted goods to enter Canada here.

Transportation to PRISMA

PRISMA 2025 (June 13-28, 2025) takes place in Powell River, British Columbia – on the beautiful west coast of Canada – a stunning rural setting where the mountains meet the sea.

Students arrive at Vancouver (YVR) airport on June 12, 2025. PRISMA will coordinate transportation to Powell River by arranging a bus; the Bus will leave YVR at around 12:30 p.m. Please note that the bus fee is not included in the tuition and accommodation fees.

• The bus capacity is on a first-book, first-serve basis.
  • The bust costs will be announced soon
• Students not on the bus must take a flight from YVR to Powell River.
  • Pacific Coastal flies from YVR South Terminal (Richmond) to Powell River (YPW).
    • On June 16, the flights are scheduled at 8:00, 11:30, 16:50.
  • Harbour Air flies from Vancouver Harbour (downtown) to Powell River (YPW).
    • On June 16, the flights are scheduled at 07:50 and 16:00.

June 29, 2025, students leave Powell River for Vancouver (YVR) and catch connecting flights (domestic or international). Please book the flight scheduled after 3 PM (to avoid any rush, especially if you are taking a bus from PR).

• Students who take a bus from Powell River to YVR Airport must leave early in the morning (the schedule will be out ASAP).
• Students who take a flight will be dropped off by a PRISMA volunteer from the accommodation to YPW airport.
  • Pacific Coastal from Powell River (YPW) to YVR South Terminal (Richmond) on June 30 is scheduled at 8:45, 11:40, 14:20, 17:00, 18:30).
  • Harbour Air from Powell River (YPW) to Vancouver Harbour (downtown) on June 30 is scheduled at 08:55 and 17:05.

Get to know more about Powell River.

This gorgeous location, combined with strong community support, is what makes our festival truly one-of-a-kind in the world. Powell River is located on the Pacific Ocean in western Canada. It is located on British Columbia’s scenic Sunshine Coast, 130 kilometers (80 miles) northwest of Vancouver. To learn more about this special community, click here

In your free time, you will have an opportunity to explore this area. Students can hike, kayak, swim or visit one of our many beaches. Click here for ideas.

PRISMA wishes to acknowledge the Tla’amin Nation, on whose ancestral territories we gather each summer for two weeks of inspiring music-making.

Festival Venue

One of the best parts about living in a smaller urban centre is that everything is nearby! PRISMA’s venue arrangements have been carefully planned to allow you to focus on your musical development and networking opportunities, while not missing a single second of scenery.

All of PRISMA’s festival sites are located in the heart of Powell River’s downtown district, boasting modern amenities amidst scenic beauty. The Evergreen Theatre at Powell River Recreation Complex is our main rehearsal and performance venue, located just a short walk from your hotel. From there, beaches, hiking trails and even shopping are just minutes away.

PRISMA has several venues for rehearsals, concerts, and lessons. All major concerts will take place at the Evergreen Theatre at the Powell River Recreation Complex (address: 5001 Joyce Ave, Powell River, BC V8A 5R2). All venues are within walking distance of the hotel and each other.

The Evergreen Theatre

The Evergreen Theatre has been serving the city of Powell River since 1975 as its largest and most versatile performing arts facility. It is located within the Powell River Recreation Complex, which also includes two ice rinks, a pool, fitness centre, banquet facilities, and more. The 720-seat Evergreen Theatre plays host to all PRISMA rehearsals, masterclasses and evening concerts and is within convenient walking distance from the Town Centre Hotel. Other areas of the Complex are used for sectionals, rehearsals, meetings, and meals.has been serving the city  of Powell River since 1975 as its largest and most versatile performing arts facility. It is located within the Powell River Recreation Complex, which also includes two ice rinks, a pool, fitness centre, banquet facilities, and more. The 720-seat Evergreen Theatre plays host to all PRISMA rehearsals, masterclasses and evening concerts and is within convenient walking distance from the Town Centre Hotel. Other areas of the Complex are used for sectionals, rehearsals, meetings, and meals.

The Rotary Bandshell at Willingdon Beach Park

The Rotary Bandshell at Willingdon Beach Park is the site of our annual PRISMA on the Beach concert, which entertains thousands of music-lovers from Powell River and beyond. Located in the heart of the city, the park offers a campsite, wharf, fishing pier, playground, museum and other amenities overlooking gorgeous ocean views of the Strait of Georgia. A popup village of vendors and artists at the event will ensure that there are plenty of dining options to suit your tastes, and the opportunity to pick up a local souvenir or two!

 

Festival Accommodation

Powell River Town Centre Hotel

Powell River Town Centre Hotel is conveniently located in the very heart of the city, near shopping, transportation, and business and recreation areas. It is also within walking distance from the Complex, where most PRISMA events and activities take place. Each room is 100% non-smoking and is equipped with air conditioning, a coffee maker, a hair dryer, a clock radio, a TV, and free movie channels. On site you will also find a restaurant and pub, which is frequented by students and guest artists as one of the social hubs of PRISMA.

All students who select to have their accommodations provided by PRISMA will be staying at the first-class Town Centre Hotel, which is located a short walk from concert and rehearsal spaces and local amenities. You can choose to stay with 3 or 2 in a room or choose your own room, subject to additional costs (all separated beds). Students who receive a full scholarship will stay at a homestay or with 3 in a room.

Please note 3 that a room package is limited, first come, first serve.

Hotel address:

Powell River Town Center Hotel

4660 Joyce Ave, Powell River, BC V8A 3B6

(604) 485-3000

What to Bring to PRISMA

1. You are expected to bring your instrument and auxiliary instruments (Piccolo, English Horn, Eb Clarinet.). Except for these instruments below:
   • 5 quality basses (please bring your own bow)
   • 2 Lyon & Healy concert grand harps (Style 85 and Chicago)
   • Contrabassoon
   • There are limited opportunities to rent a quality cello if traveling with your own cello is difficult.
   • PRISMA provides all percussion instruments, but students may bring their own mallets.
   • PRISMA provides music stands.
2. Please bring your printed music for individual practice and sectional rehearsal, as well as printed music for the chamber group.
3. Please bring your own toiletries (towel, body wash, shampoo, toothbrush, etc) as UBC dorm does not provide toiletries.
4. Please bring extra thicker clothes/sweaters/jackets just in case – as the weather keeps changing. It will be a cool summer in Powell River. The weather is approximate: high/low 20°/ 11° or 52°F to 68°F.
5. The festival venue will be in the recreation complex, where they have a hot tub and pool; you may bring your swim gear if you are interested in getting into water activities (please note that admission is not free)
6. Bring some cash with you (not too much) – especially during PRISMA on the beach (Saturday, June 17) there will be lots of food trucks, and you can only pay with cash.
7. It is strongly encouraged that each student obtains travel/medical insurance for their stay in Canada

Concert attire:

You will have several performances during PRISMA (symphony concerts, limelight concerts, masterclasses, and concerto competitions). Here is the suggested attire for you:

Symphonic concert:

Option 1: Black tux (no tails), white shirt, black bow tie, black cummerbund, dress shoes, and black socks.

Option 2: Floor-length black skirt, black pants (no denim), or long black dress, closed-toed black dress shoes.

Limelight concert, masterclass:

Black shirt and black pants. You can also discuss the dress code with your chamber group.

Concerto Competition:

This is your choice – please wear something formal. Be prepared for the dress (for women) if you are admitted to the final round.

Meals during the Festival

During Festival in Powell River: PRISMA offers daily lunch and dinner service on weekdays (Monday – Friday) and the final Saturday. (Students will be expected to make their own meal arrangements during the middle weekend of PRISMA.) Meals are served at the Recreation Complex, where the concert hall is located. All students are encouraged to participate in the meal plan as it corresponds with the rehearsal and lesson schedule. A reputable caterer provides healthy, wholesome meals.

PRISMA can accommodate your special requirements as long as you let us know ahead of time. When you prepare to attend PRISMA, you will receive an email asking if you have any special requirements, and it is important to let us know as early as possible so that we can make suitable arrangements for you.

If you book your own accommodation, you may still participate in the meal plan. Please let us know in advance if you plan to do so.

Breakfast is not included in the meal package. You can choose to order your breakfast from the menu at the Garden Court Restaurant in the hotel lobby. The hotel provides PRISMA students with a discount on their breakfasts. There are other breakfast options adjacent to the hotel, such as Tim Hortons, A&W, Starbucks, Subway, and McDonalds.

2025 PRISMA Festival meal chart

	Lunch	Dinner
Thursday, June 12, 2025
Friday, June 13, 2025	v	v
Saturday, June 14, 2025	v	v
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Monday, June 16, 2025	v	v
Tuesday, June 17, 2025	v	v
Wednesday, June 18, 2025	v	v
Thursday, June 19, 2025	v	v
Friday, June 20, 2025	v	v
Saturday, June 21, 2025	v
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Monday, June 23, 2025	v	v
Tuesday, June 24, 2025	v	v
Wednesday, June 25, 2025	v	v
Thursday, June 26, 2025	v	v
Friday, June 27, 2025	v	v
Saturday, June 28, 2025		v
Sunday, June 29, 2025

PRISMA 2025 Orchestra Repertoire*

• Mahler – Symphony No. 6
• Shostakovich – Symphony No. 6
• Mosolov – Symphony No. 3 (world premiere)
• Berlioz –Les Nuits d’été
• … and more!

Sheet Music

You will receive your music ahead of time in digital form and are expected to print the music, bring it with you, and arrive at PRISMA fully prepared to begin orchestra rehearsals immediately. As PRISMA has a very intense schedule, it is important to be well-prepared before arrival.

Concerto Competition

PRISMA’s annual Concerto Competition allows young, talented instrumentalists to showcase their musical prowess.
PRISMA 2025 Concerto Competition will be divided into two categories:

1. Strings Category includes violin, viola, cello, double bass, and harp.
2. Other Categories include flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, French horn, trombone, and percussion.

Ten participants will be selected from the Preselection round and will perform with piano accompaniment during the Competition Round for a supportive audience.
Both categories will have a winner who will be a soloist with the PRISMA Festival Orchestra during the final two concerts.
The winner from each category will receive a prize of CAD 1000 and will be invited back to next year’s PRISMA on a full scholarship.
The winner of the Audience Favourite Award will receive a prize of CAD 500.

To view the Competition rules, please visit this page.

Luthier in Town

Luthier Laura Wallace will be present daily at PRISMA around lunch time for consultation, and for complimentary adjustments and advice for your instrument setup. In addition, repairs and bow rehairing can be done. Students will receive a 15% discount on strings.

For more information about Laura, please visit her website.

Canada Visa Information

Canada requires visas for citizens of certain countries. To attend PRISMA, students should apply for a visitor visa (not a study visa). To check if you require a visa, click here to search for your country’s specific requirements.

If you do require a visitor visa, PRISMA will provide a letter to include with your visa application. To request this letter, please send us an email to admissions@prismafestival.com.

We strongly recommend applying for your visa as early as possible as processing times can be lengthy. Check the current processing times here to ensure you receive your visa on time.

If your visa processing time exceeds 45 days, please contact us immediately to avoid delays.

PRISMA Festival and Academy Infectious Disease Policy and Procedure Document

Health awareness during PRISMA

Students, staff, and other adults should follow public health guidance and the recommendations of a health care provider when they are sick. Being Health aware reduces the likelihood of a person coming to the festival when sick. This includes regularly checking for illness symptoms to ensure you don’t come to the festival when ill and protecting others.

Prevention

Prevention measures are in place to reduce the spread of communicable diseases, including COVID-19. This includes effective personal practices like health awareness, staying home when sick and regular hand cleaning. PRISMA will have a sanitizer available at all high-touch locations throughout the festival. All students and staff should:

• Practice health awareness
• Stay home when sick
• Alert one of the Festival staff if feeling unwell
• Isolate in your hotel or homestay until you speak to a staff member for the next steps

Masks

The decision to wear a mask is a personal choice for everyone. Individuals can choose to continue to wear a mask throughout the day or during specific activities. This choice will be supported and treated with respect. Masks will be available to all staff and students and can be found in the box office of our student services.

Cleaning and disinfecting

Regular cleaning and disinfection can help prevent the spread of communicable diseases. General cleaning of common areas, student office, and the complex will occur regularly, with frequently touched surfaces cleaned more often.

Students and staff who become sick during the Festival

If a student or staff member develops symptoms during PRISMA:

• PRISMA will have masks available for those who are sick
• Staff and Students will be asked to go back to their hotel or homestay as soon as possible to self-isolate
• If in a shared hotel room or homestay, PRISMA will try their best to isolate any student who is sharing a room, or homestay with another individual by moving the shared students to a different hotel room or homestay to reduce spread of the illness
• The person should stay at their homestay or hotel and follow public health advice on when to return to activities. Most people can return to the Festival when their symptoms have improved, and they feel well enough to participate in regular activities while wearing a mask
• PRISMA will contact the homestay host to check-in on support required for the student who is exhibiting symptoms and move the student if necessary

Orchestra and music lessons

Students are encouraged to:

• Clean their hands before and after using any shared equipment
• Not to share equipment that touches the mouth, like an instrument mouth piece or water bottle, unless cleaned and disinfected in between uses
• Cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing

International students

International students arriving in or returning to B.C. are required to follow federal COVID-19 travel guidance.

• Current federal travel guidance and requirements for entering Canada