Our Community
PRISMA takes place in Powell River on the wild west coast of British Columbia, Canada. This gorgeous location, combined with strong community support, is what makes our festival truly one-of-a-kind in the world.
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.
Getting Here
Powell River is located on mainland British Columbia, 124 km (77 miles) northwest of Vancouver on the Upper Sunshine Coast. The city (population 14,000) lies east of Vancouver Island, just across the Strait of Georgia from the cities of Courtenay and Comox. Transportation options include car, bus and airplane. If you travel by bus or car you will need to take a ferry from the Vancouver area (Horseshoe Bay) or Vancouver Island (Little River). Planes leave from Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) South Terminal.
Students will be responsible for arranging their own travel to and from Powell River. Because the flights and ferries are on a limited schedule, make sure you take travel time into consideration before booking any international or regional flights. Feel free to email us if you have any questions.
Our Venues
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.
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.
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!
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, hair dryer, clock radio, 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.
