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SURREY EVENTS: November brings 'Nutcracker' & more to Surrey venues

A guide to Surrey-area events, entertainment, attractions and activities
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Surrey City Orchestra performs "The Nutcracker" on Nov. 23 at Chandos Pattison Auditorium, 10238 168 St., Surrey. Tickets range from $25 to $35 on surreycityorchestra.org. See listing under Concerts.

CONCERTS

Take It To the Limit tribute to the Eagles at Bell Performing Arts Centre on Wednesday, Nov. 6, presented by Surrey-based Moon Coin Productions. "With rave reviews from coast to coast, this show promises to be a fully immersive experience, capturing the essence and energy of an authentic Eagles concert." Tickets start at $49 on bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355.

Coffee Concert: Rhythm & Song, 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 7 at Surrey Arts Centre's Main Stage. A Surrey Civic Theatres Presentation. "A sound feast of piano and percussion with Percussiano3, comprised of the Bergmann Duo and percussionist Rod Squance. Join us for the social hour an hour before the concert, featuring works by Bach, Chabrier, Ravel, Copland, and Piazzolla." Tickets on tickets.surrey.ca, call 604-501-5566.

Blackout/Hysteria: Tribute to The Scorpions and Def Leppard at Bell Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, Nov. 9, doors 7 p.m. and show at 8 p.m. All tickets $45; $3 from every ticket will go to Surrey Food Bank. Visit bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355.

A Night in Paris With Jill Barber concert Friday, Nov. 15 at Surrey Arts Centre's Main Stage. "Known for her melodic and unique vocals, for this trés special performance, Jill will treat audiences to music from her new album ENCORE." Infotickets.surrey.ca, call 604-501-5566.

Piolo & Inigo Pascual in "Father and Son" concert tour, Nov. 17 at Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey, 6 p.m. Tickets start at $81 on bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355. 

The Nutcracker by The Surrey City Orchestra, Nov. 23 at Chandos Pattison Auditorium, 10238 168 St., Surrey. Tickets $25/$35, surreycityorchestra.org. "Enjoy a live professional orchestra, Affinity Dance, Kvitka Ukrainian School of Dance, Layali Dancers, and Coastal Sound Youth Choir, all conducted by Maestro Leslie Dala. The performance lasts about 1.5 hours. Free parking and wheelchair accessibility are available. Artists from the Surrey Festival of the Arts will also be featured in the lobby."

Seniors Holiday Concert on Saturday, Nov. 30 at Surrey City Hall, 10:30 to 1 p.m. "Come celebrate the holiday season!  Talented musicians will bring you a variety of uplifting and engaging performances that you are sure to enjoy including Langley Ukulele Ensemble and The Piano Men. Complimentary lunch and prizes. Visit our fun holiday theme photo booth. Pre-registration required." Tickets are $10, on surrey.ca/news-events/events/seniors-holiday-concert.

VSO: Josefowicz Plays Stravinsky concert Sunday, Dec. 1 at Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey, 7 p.m. "Soloist Leila Josefowicz enchants in Stravinsky’s stunning Violin Concerto." Tickets $45/$50 on bellperformingartscentre.com, call 604-507-6355.  

Jazz Vespers in the Valley: Hour-long concerts at Northwood United Church on select Sundays from fall to spring, 3:30 p.m. start time at 8855 156 St. “Jazz meets the Spirit in a time of reflection and prayer.” Suggested donation $10 for admission. Info: northwood-united.org/events, or call 604-581-8454.

THEATRE/STAGE

"The Woman in Black": Royal Canadian Theatre Company presents "a suspenseful, hair-raising experience to open its season this fall," touring at Surrey Arts Centre's Studio Theatre (Oct. 24-27) and Anvil Theatre (Oct. 31 to Nov. 3). "Written and adapted by Stephen Malatratt from the novel by Susan Hill, and directed by New Westminster local Nicole DesLauriers, this spooky show is perfect for the Halloween season." Info and tickets: rctheatreco.com or call 604-501-5566 for Surrey dates.

"Radioland '48" comedy play brought to Newton Cultural Centre by Naked Stage Readers Theatre from Nov. 1-3 (three show times), by Kirsten Van Ritzen, directed by Colleen McGoff Dean. Info and tickets: nspsociety.com.

"Roof" by Lucas Myers, presented by Pilotcopilot Theatre on Saturday, Nov. 9 at Surrey City Hall's Centre Stage theatre. A Surrey Civic Theatres Presentation. "A funny, one-man show full of home truths." Infotickets.surrey.ca, call 604-501-5566.

"Rapunzel: The Panto" staged at Surrrey Arts Centre's Main Stage by Fraser Valley Musical Theatre from Nov. 20 to Dec. 1. "Written by Bradford & Webster, this hair-raising, 'hair-lariously' tangled take on the classic fairy tale promises a delightful blend of comedy, slapstick, and enough puns to keep you in stitches." Info and tickets: Call 604-501-5566 or visit tickets.surrey.ca.

“The Complete Works of William Shakespeare [Abridged] [Revised] [Again]”: Pivot Theatre stages comedy, Nov. 22nd to Dec. 1 at Newton Cultural Centre in Surrey. Directed by Lois Warwick, the show stars Emma Geleynse, Dominic Renaud and Felix Poteate. “Three actors come together to attempt to perform all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays in a single show." Tickets range from $20 to $30 on TicketOwl

"Rat Academy" at Surrey Arts Centre's Studio Theatre on Saturday, Nov. 30, 4 p.m. A Surrey Civic Theatres presentation with Surrey SPARK Stages and Batrabbit. "In the anti-rat hysteria of 1950s Alberta, the last two remaining rats scurry toward survival in this physical comedy that will have you clutching your tail. Fingers, a gruff street rat with a heart of gold meets Shrimp, a cheerful escapee from a lab." Tickets: Children: $16, Adults: $21, on tickets.surrey.ca, call 604-501-5566.

FESTIVALS

Bear Creek Lights: See nature shine with stunning light displays set along beautiful nature trails at Bear Creek Park, from Nov. 2-16. "Enjoy the safe, accessible, family-friendly light display through the park's one-kilometer garden walking loop. Food trucks will be onsite nightly." Book free tickets on surrey.ca.

Surrey's Tree Lighting Festival & Holiday Market, Nov. 23 & 24 from noon to 8 p.m. daily at Surrey Civic Plaza. "Come enjoy the best holiday festival with live music, choirs, food trucks, rides, family activities, dance battles, photos with Santa and much more! The tree will be lit on November 23 at 6:30pm. Free admission for all ages." Info: surrey.ca.

DANCE

"The Nutcracker" by Royal Winnipeg Ballet on stage Nov. 23-24 at Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey. "Performed by one of the most historic dance companies in North America, Vancouver’s only professional version of the wintertime classic is danced to a majestic and instantly recognizable Tchaikovsky score." Visit bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355.

SALES/MARKETS

Northwood United Church craft fairs on Nov. 2 and 16 in Fleetwood, 8855 156 St., 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. "We have a great selection of vendors, many are different each week. Door prizes, you don’t have to be there to win. Admission is $2 per person (five & under are free)."

Heart to Home Holiday Market at Surrey Arts Centre on Nov. 16-17, noon to 4 p.m. daily. "Give the gift of local handmade art to loved ones in your life. From paintings and ceramics to jewelry and jams, there's something for everyone. An annual event organized by Surrey Art Gallery Association, this market boasts roughly 30 artists, live demos and music, and a festive shopping experience." At Bear Creek Park.  

HALLOWEEN

Cougar Creek's House of Horrors: Thrills at five haunted houses on repurposed garden centre on 72 Avenue. "A premier live-theatre horror attraction" with "creepy and horrifying hallways," now until Nov. 3. Tickets/info: cougarcreekhoh.fearticket.com.

Dreadworks Haunted Houses promises "immersive dark fantasy and cutting-edge horror" at Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre until Nov. 3. The "scare experience" is a movies-inspired joint undertaking between Alexander J. Baxter and the Jonkman family, co-founders of Somnara Studios. Tickets and info: dreadworks.ca.

FOOD & BEVERAGES

Ukrainian Soul Food: Perogies, cabbage rolls and borscht available on the final Friday of every month as fundraiser, 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Ukrainian Cultural Centre, 13512 108 Ave, Surrey. “Hot takeout or choose to dine in, as well as frozen products to stock your freezer. Cash only. For information, call 604-531-1923 or 604-581-0313.

MUSEUMS

Museum of Surrey: At 17710 56A Ave., Cloverdale. Info: Surrey.ca/museum, 604-592-6956. "Meditate" feature exhibit runs until spring 2025.

ARTS & CULTURE

Surrey Muse: Interdisciplinary art and literature presentation group meets on fourth Friday of each month except December (5:30-8:30 p.m.). Gatherings feature an author, a poet and an artist/performer at varying levels of artistic development, followed by an Open Mic session. Virtual gatherings continue for now.

GALLERIES

Roots of Resilience: Media Arts Symposium at Surrey Art Gallery on Saturday, Nov. 23 from 1 to 4:30 p.m. "In connection with Jagdeep Raina: Ghosts in the Fields, this symposium will speak to the history of farmworker movements, working conditions of migrant workers and sustainable practices in the face of climate change in the Lower Mainland from the 1970s to present. Event held in partnership with Indian Summer Festivavl and South Asian Studies Institute." Info: surrey.ca/artgallery, 604-501-5566.

Family Art Party at Surrey Art Gallery on Sunday, Dec. 1, noon to 4 p.m. "Make art with family and friends, and immerse yourself in Jagdeep Raina: Ghosts in the Fields. Create a phulkari-inspired drawing, design a seed packet, take home seeds to plant from the Clayton Seed Library, and sculpt a clay farm with SAG artist-educators. Reflect on ecology, labour and the farmers who grow the food that nourishes us." Info: 604-501-5566.

Surrey Art Gallery: Multiple galleries at Bear Creek Park, 88 Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery. Ghosts In The Fields, a solo exhibition by interdisciplinary artist Jagdeep Raina, on view until mid-December; Pass the Mic!, an exhibition curated by Semiahmoo Arts Society, to Feb. 5; Cheryl Pagurek: Winter Garden to Dec. 8 (an interactive video collage).

Newton Cultural Centre features works by local artists at 13530 72 Ave., at venue of the Arts Council of Surrey. For calendar visit artscouncilofsurrey.ca, or call 604-594-2700.

Thursday Artist Talks: Events hosted by Surrey Art Gallery Association (SAGA) on the first Thursday of every month, 7:30 p.m. Free admission. Info: 604-501-5566, Arts.surrey.ca. On Facebook.surreyartgalleryassociation. Nov. 7: Kathleen Tonnesen, "Seeing Beyond the Light"; Dec. 5: Kalyan Phadke with "Mandala: Art from the Heart."

COMEDY

The Comic Strippers male-stripper parody returns to Surrey's Bell Performing Arts Centre on Friday, Nov. 1, 8 p.m. (19+ only). "The award winning improv comedians are back with a new show, more moves and even quicker wits." Tickets and info: bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355.

Yuk Yuk’s comedy club at Elements Casino Surrey, with shows Friday/Saturday at 17755 60 Ave., Cloverdale. For calendar and tickets, visit yukyuks.com/surrey or call 1-800-899-9136, ext. 0. Oct. 18: Nurses Night Out special show; Oct. 18-19: Chris Gaskin & Ryan Lachance; Oct. 25-26: Jacob Samuel.

BARS/NIGHTLIFE

Donegal’s Irish House: Live music and jams at 12054 96th Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-584-2112, donegals.pub.

Whalley Legion’s Vimy Lounge: Live music Friday-Sunday, Tuesday karaoke at #102-10626 City Parkway, Surrey. Info: (604) 582-0697, whalleylegion.org.

Dublin Crossing: Live music on stage at 18789 Fraser Hwy. 604-575-5470, online at Dublincrossing.com.

Mojitos: Latin music and more at The Turf Hotel, by bands and DJs, 12411 King George Blvd. Info: 778-223-6936, facebook.com/mojitosurrey.

Taphouse Guildford: Music/sports bar, 15330 102A Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-583-8828, Thetaphouse.ca.

Brewster’s Pub: Live music Saturday nights at 7380 King George Blvd. No cover. Info: brewsterspub.ca, facebook.com/BrewstersPub.

MOVIES

Landmark Cinemas 12 Guildford: 15051 101 Ave. 604-581-1716, Info: Landmarkcinemas.com.

Strawberry Hill Cineplex: 12161 72 Ave., Surrey. 604-501-9400, cineplex.com.

FLEA MARKET

The Cloverdale Market: “Your Weekly Treasure Hunt” in two buildings with 200 tables and 100+ outdoor spots, open every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, off 176 St. (Hwy 15) and 62 Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-837-1676, Cloverdalemarket.ca.

SPORTS

Surrey Eagles: Junior hockey games at South Surrey Arena from fall to spring. For schedule and tickets, visit surreyeagles.ca or call 604-531-GOAL (4625).

Surrey Knights: Junior A hockey games at North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex, 10950 126A St., in PJHL league action from September to March. Home games Thursdays, 7 p.m. Schedule: surreyknights.ca.

BUSINESS

Surrey Business Excellence Awards: Surrey Board of Trade hosts the 2024 awards Thursday, Nov. 7 at Sheraton hotel in Guildford. "Anyone can nominate a business or individual for a Surrey Business Excellence Award and self-nominations are accepted. A Surrey Board of Trade membership is not required, although the business must be based in Surrey and have a Surrey business license." Info: businessinsurrey.com. 

NATURE

Community Tree Planting events in Surrey at various sites. “Help grow Surrey’s urban forest by planting trees and shrubs in your community park this spring.” Schedule and info: surrey.ca/news-events/events/community-tree-planting, email stewardship@surrey.ca.

Surrey Tree Sale Program: “Surrey residents can buy quality trees at an affordable price to help grow the urban forest.” Purchases are made online and then later picked up from Surrey Operations Centre. Info: surrey.ca/treesale.

Nature Work Parties: “Help care for Surrey parks by removing invasive plant species, cleaning up litter, and enhancing habitat within the park. Remove invasive plant species, clean up litter, and enhance habitat within the park. Tools and training are provided. Bring your family and friends; all ages are welcome.” For info and dates, visit surrey.ca/news-events/events/nature-work-parties.

WORKSHOPS

The Network to Eliminate Violence in Relationships (NEVR) is offering free 3-hour online workshops every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. “Goal of the workshop is to learn to identify different types of abuse, support survivors of abuse and learn how to find additional supports and resources for survivors of abuse.” Email nevr@kpu to register for a free VIP workshop. Info: 604-599-2267.

EDUCATION

READ Surrey/White Rock Society’s Partners Program offers free, one-to-one tutoring for adults who want reading, writing or math support. “If you or someone you know needs literacy help, call Shanti at 778-242-7323 or email readswrs@gmail.com.” Info at readsurreywhiterock.com.

KIDS/YOUTH

Youth Speak Up Forum on Friday, Nov. 8 at Surrey City Hall. Day-long forum provides a platform for youth to express your opinions and ideas to shape the future of the City of Surrey. Free admission. "If you are 13-18, join us at City Hall for a full day of workshops and activities to discuss community topics. You will receive a certificate for participation. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks will also be provided. We will amplify your voice and gather information and recommendations on meaningful topics. Surrey Leadership Youth Council (SLYC) youth will then collect data and feedback to create their annual Youth Speak-Up Forum Report." Info: https://www.surrey.ca/news-events/events/youth-speak-forum.

Surrey Kids Conference returns this year with the theme "Playful Futures: A Child's Right to Play," Nov. 15 at Clayton Community Centre. Free. "There will be various workshops for kids ages 6 to 12 to enjoy. Play is a fundamental right for all children. Each workshop will give participants the opportunity to have fun, make friends and explore their potential." Info: surrey.ca/news-events/events/surrey-kids-conference.

MYzone and MYgame After School Drop-in Programs run from October to June at seven locations across Surrey. “These fun programs provide children ages 8-12 the opportunity to explore a variety of activities during critical after-school hours in a safe and fully supervised environment.” Info: surrey.ca/activities-parks-recreation/recreation-programs/children-age-6-to-12/mygame-after-school-drop-in-program.

WALKS/RUNS

Guided Nature Walks at Surrey Nature Centre on various dates: “Join a Surrey Nature Centre team member for in-person guided walks to learn about nature and the diversity of Green Timbers Urban Forest. Walks are designed for all ages and will go rain or shine.” More info: 604-501-5100.

Surrey Trekkers Volksport Club: “A friendly walking club where everyone is welcome. We have a proud heritage as an associate of International Volkssporting with regularly scheduled walks throughout the Lower Mainland.” Walks are on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, most statutory holidays. Info: surreytrekkers.com.

Surrey Walks Together: City hall initiative encourages residents to “reconnect with others while walking to improve both mental and physical health.” Meeting locations are posted to Surrey Walks website (surrey.ca/parks-recreation/surrey-walks) along with other walking resources including trail maps, information on self-guided walks, walking groups, charity walks and more.

SENIORS

Belinda’s Connection Café at Newton Cultural Centre: “A free monthly event for 55+ seniors to connect with others while participating in art-related activities,” on select dates, 10 a.m. to noon, register by email to lyn.verra.lay@gmail.com, call 778-879-4097.

Senior’s bingo every Saturday from 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre in Whalley. Cards are 25 cents each. Telephone registration is required: 604-598-5898.

Surrey Singles Over Sixty: "We are a friendly group that meet for dinners, card games, bowling, dancing, picnics, walks, etc. Our club is based in the North Surrey/North Delta area. New members are welcome." Call Julie, 604-218-2946.

TALK (Third Age Learning at Kwantlen): Program promises “creative and stimulating educational activities” for the 50-plus age group in Surrey and surrounding cities, with a mix of in-person and online events. TALK courses are “ideal for retirees who want to continue learning.” Fees range from $15 to $30, plus $10 annual membership fee. Info: kpu.ca/talk, 604-599-3077.

Seniors Centre Without Walls: Join various presenters for telephone-based exercises, literature or coffee clubs, learning mindfulness or estate planning. View details for information about the Seniors’ Centre Without Walls initiative by Seniors Come Share Society and register by calling 604-531S-9400 ext. 205 or scww@comeshare.ca.

ATTRACTIONS

Surreys Heritage Rail: Rides from Cloverdale Station. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to be able to enjoy all rides. Accessible. Parking is available at the station, at 17630 / Highway 10. Info: fvhrs.org.

Bear Creek Park Train and MiniGolf: Mini train rides through forest at Surrey’s largest park, 13750 88 Ave. For hours and rates, call 604-501-1232, visit bctrains.com.

HEALTH

Surrey No Longer Alone Nar-Anon Family Group (for people affected by someone else’s drug use) in-person meetings on Monday evenings, from 7-8 p.m. at Bethany-Newton United Church, 14853 60 Ave., Surrey. Entrance at north side of the church.

Recovery Canada: “We are a free, in-person, self-help support group for people experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. In-person meeting Tuesdays 1:30-3pm at St. Cuthbert Angl ican Church, 11601 82 Ave, Delta BC. For more info contact Anita at anitaendorse@gmail.com or 604-788-4633. The virtual meeting will continue Thursdays 7-8:30 pm. Contact Gilles at gilber005@yahoo.ca for more info, or visit RecoveryCanada.ca.

Surrey Prostate Cancer Support Group meetings on last Saturday of month at Valley View Memorial Gardens 14644 72 Ave., Surrey (no meetings July and December). “Everyone is invited who are interested in knowing more about prostate cancer. Coffee & cookies provided. Call 604 594-5257.”

GROUPS

Surrey Singles Over Sixty: “We are a friendly group that meet for dinners, card games, bowling, dancing, picnics, walks, etc. Our club is based in the North Surrey/North Delta area. New members are welcome.” Call Julie, 604-218-2946.

Surrey Air Cadets: 278 Cormorant RCACS, launched in 2017, welcomes new members aged 12-18. “We parade (train) on Tuesday Evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. from September to June of each year,” at Princess Margaret Secondary School, 12870 72 Ave, Surrey. Info: surreycadets.ca, 778-832-0278.

CALLS

Peace Arch Chorus: A capella group rehearses at Newton Cultural Centre under direction of Elvera Collier and assistant director Bev Feick. “Auditioned members are provided with excellent musical education and vocal coaching.” Chorus welcomes women to join. Info: peacearchchorus.ca.

Aequitas Singers: ”Located in Surrey, an adult, non-audition , social justice, community choir." First rehearsal of the season Tuesday, Sept. 10, Northwood  United Church, 8855 156 St., Surrey, 7-9 p.m. New members welcome! For more information: https://www.aequitassingers.ca.

Soundscape A Capella Chorus: A mixed-voice, auditioned community chorus for adults. Rehearsals Tuesday evenings at Fraser Heights Secondary, Surrey. Info: soundscapesings.ca/auditions.

Handel Society Choir invites new members. Rehearsals are Tuesdays 7.30 p.m. at Cloverdale Canadian Reformed Church, on 174 Street and 60 Avenue. Soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices wanted.” Phone 604 202 7801 for information.

Westcoast Harmony Chorus: Group rehearses in Surrey at Parkland Community Church (9574 160th St.) on Wednesday evenings, 7 p.m. “A group of women and people of marginalized genders who love to sing and are personally committed to excellence and lasting friendships.” New members sought. Visit westcoastsings.com for info.

South Fraser Community Band welcomes new members, particularly needing brass/horns. Rehearsals Thursdays 7:30-9:30 p.m., September to June, at Earl Marriott Secondary, 15751 16 Ave. Email Membership@sfcb.ca, visit sfcb.ca.

VOLUNTEERS

Surrey Memorial Hospital Auxiliary has provided volunteer services and fundraising since 1947, and needs additional volunteers. “We manage the hospital gift shop, the lottery booth and hospital gift cart. All funds raised go towards enhancing patient comfort and promoting patient welfare, assisting with much needed hospital expansions and equipment, fostering good relations between Surrey Memorial Hospital and the community.” Visit the gift shop to learn more. Info: fraserhealth.ca/about-us/volunteer-opportunities/volunteer-surrey-memorial-hospital-and-jim-pattison-outpatient-care-and-surgery-centre.

Bell Performing Arts Centre seeks new volunteers. “Our volunteers gain experience in box office sales, ushering, concession sales, working with the public, and more. Get a backstage view of the arts in your community. Learn about teamwork, and experience the joy of giving something back to your community. Volunteers of various ages and all cultural backgrounds welcome.” For info call 604-507-6355. Application form on bellperformingartscentre.com.

Volunteer Cancer Drivers organization needs drivers in Surrey and other cities. Anyone wishing to become a volunteer driver can find more information at volunteercancerdrivers.ca.

Community Thrift Store: “Can you spare 4 hours a day to volunteer at Newton’s Community Thrift Store, a joint project of Surrey Hospice Society and Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society?” At 7138 King George Blvd. Call Donna at 604-599-9930 or visit shscommunitythriftstore.com/volunteer to learn more.

Surrey Art Gallery docent program seeks volunteers to lead weekday school group tours of contemporary art exhibitions. Visit “Volunteering at the Gallery” page on surrey.ca/artgallery or contact Chris Dawson-Murphy, Volunteer Coordinator, artsvolunteer@surrey.ca, 604-501-5198.

READ Surrey/White Rock Society is recruiting volunteer adult literacy tutors for their fall training. Info: readsurreywhiterock.com.

Fraser Health Crisis Line is marking 50 years of operation this year; that’s 50 years of 24/7 service delivered by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, contact the Fraser Health Crisis Line: options.bc.ca/volunteer-at-options.



Tom Zillich

About the Author: Tom Zillich

I cover entertainment, sports and news for Surrey Now-Leader and Black Press Media
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