Celebrating 10 Years of MPMG!
Ten years ago a big, audacious idea was hatched: Laura dreamed of an agency exclusively dedicated to supporting and celebrating artistic endeavours + creative industries.… keep reading
NEWS
EXAMINE: Digidance Case Study
ART In November 2019, renowned choreographer Crystal Pite’s Body and Soul was premiered by Paris Opera Ballet. In Winter of 2021, Digidance – a national initiative… keep reading
EXAMINE: VIFF Case Study
ART In 2020, VIFF presented their first-ever online primary festival. The innovative 39th edition brought 100+ boundary-pushing films + events straight to homes throughout British… keep reading
Special Statement For Our Friends, Clients + Community
To Our Friends, Clients, and Community, A note of solidarity and support during these unprecedented times. The cancellation of performances and closure of galleries over… keep reading
EXAMINE: Behind the Promotions Strategy for Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo
Take a look behind-the-scenes at MPMG’s bi-coastal promotions strategy. OVERVIEW Presented by Show One Productions, New York’s international sensation — Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo… keep reading
DISCOVER: MPMG’s Most Binge-worthy TV Series Picks
Full of twists and turns, hilarity and heart, these streamable TV picks curated by the MPMG team will have you pressing play well past your… keep reading
INQUIRE: Experts Talk Diversity + Inclusion in Arts Programming
We asked five arts industry leaders to share their insights on the advancement of diversity + inclusion in the arts. MPMG ASKED CULTURE LEADERS: In… keep reading
INSIGHT: Understanding the PuSh Curatorial Process
We asked PuSh International Performing Arts Festival Associate Artistic Director Joyce Rosario for some quick insights into how the festival selects the exciting works that have become… keep reading
DISCOVER: The books we love
It’s the fall, so what better time than to curl up with a good book. Enjoy this curated selection from the MPMG team. The Great… keep reading
SHARING: MPMG Book Club Year One
A look at Rad Reads, and what we read this year. As the first year of Rad Reads concludes, five books later, the MPMG team… keep reading
CELEBRATE: The Impact of Dance
In celebration of International Dance Day, we are exploring various paths within and beyond dance and highlighting the impact that dance can have on other… keep reading
LISTEN: Arts Amplified Episode 3
Episode 3: Influence – We explore the growing power of online influence and the opportunity this shift creates to reach and engage arts audiences in… keep reading
INSPIRE: MPMG’s Team Bucket List
Our arts-loving team members share what they’re most eager to accomplish and experience in this lifetime. Check out some of our artsy aspirations, travel to-dos, and… keep reading
LEARN: Informative Answers from Account Manager Ines Min
Account Manager Ines Min answers MPMG client questions about media relations + more. What is the most challenging part and rewarding part of your job?… keep reading
LISTEN: Episode 2 of Arts Amplified
Episode 2: Shakespeare Remixed – We go behind the scenes and unpack the creation of Prince Hamlet, Why Not Theatre’s remixed, reimagined, and bilingual staging… keep reading
LISTEN: Episode 1 of Arts Amplified is Here
It’s finally here! We’re thrilled to share the first episode of MPMG’s brand new podcast, Arts Amplified. Episode 1: The Critics – Interviews with some… keep reading
LISTEN: MPMG is Launching a Podcast!
MPMG is thrilled to announce its new podcast: Arts Amplified – coming this January! Join us on a deep dive into the creative industry, as… keep reading
MOTIVATE: MPMG Clients Share Words to Live By
We asked arts industry leaders to share a few inspiring words that guide them personally and/or professionally. Whether this is a quote that resonates with… keep reading
EXPLORE: New MPMG Team Members’ Top Online Resources
Get to know the latest additions to the MPMG team through their go-to online resources! We asked our newest staff members: As an arts marketer,… keep reading
INQUIRE: Experts Talk Arts Advocacy
We asked three of arts industry leaders to share their insights + perspectives on arts advocacy. These experts agree; no matter what our involvement with… keep reading
EXAMINE: Behind the Holla Jazz Digital Strategy
PROJECT + PRIORITIES Holla Jazz is a Toronto-based dance company with a soulful and funky approach to vernacular jazz dance. In celebration of Jazz Appreciation… keep reading
INQUIRE: SD Holman Talks Queer Arts Festival + Beyond
The sun was shining and the view of the city was spectacular as we sat perched on the tailgate of SD Holman’s truck on the… keep reading
FOLLOW: Eight Cultural Institutions + Influencers Shining on Social Media
Crafting an inspirational and enticing social media post about the arts is almost an art form in itself. Whether it’s sharing a behind-the-scenes shot of… keep reading
LEARN: Informative Answers from Digital Manager Jesse Tanaka
Digital Manager Jesse Tanaka answers real MPMG client questions about digital marketing. If you have a limited budget, is digital marketing the best bang for… keep reading
EXAMINE: Behind the Design of the New Vancouver Christmas Market Logo
PROJECT + PRIORITIES Vancouver Christmas Market is a treasured holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike. Having recently moved to an expansive new seaside site… keep reading
Celebrate Valentine’s with MPMG Clients
Sugar and spice are certainly nice, but experiences create lasting memories! Treat your special someone to an unforgettable date with these Valentine’s Weekend offerings from… keep reading
MPMG Opens Toronto Office
In response to an increased demand for its integrated arts + culture marketing services, MPMG are excited to announce the opening of a Toronto office.… keep reading
Workshop: Brian Paterson Demystifies Digital Marketing
BC Alliance for Arts + Culture’s workshops and webinars address topics of interest to arts, culture, and heritage organizations and to artists, presented by some… keep reading
MPMG Named ‘Best PR Firm’ in Vancouver for Third Year
This week, MPMG was named ‘Best Public Relations Firm’ in The Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver Awards. We are thrilled to be recognized in this way for the… keep reading
Laura Featured in Women of Influence
Women of Influence is an organization dedicated to the advancement of professional women. It defines such a woman as being engaged in life, an authentic leader, an… keep reading
INQUIRE: Experts Talk Collaboration
We asked a number of arts + marketing leaders to share their insights + perspectives on the art of collaboration. These experts agree; collaboration is at the heart of every… keep reading
MPMG Summer Youtube Club
Friday afternoon team viewings of some of Youtube’s best offerings are a time-honoured tradition here at MPMG. It’s important to make time to connect with… keep reading
CONSIDER: The “Netflix Syndrome” + the Arts
Ever found yourself trawling through every category on Netflix before slipping into a state of analysis paralysis and eventually giving up? Well, you’re not alone.… keep reading
MPMG Wins Western Canada Marketing & PR Award
Murray Paterson Marketing Group accepted Business in Vancouver‘s Western Canada Marketing & PR Award for ‘Best Use of Digital Ads’ at the Change in the Making Marketing… keep reading
Welcome to the Team: Niamh
Get to know our new Media Relations Specialist, Niamh Anderson. Muse: I come up with some of my best ideas while I’m running or just enjoying… keep reading
MPMG Named One of BC’s Largest PR Firms
Business in Vancouver has released their 2017 BIVLIST of the Biggest Public Relations Firms in B.C. (ranked by number of employees). Murray Paterson Marketing Group appears at spot… keep reading
Laura Honoured at BIV Forty Under 40 Gala
MPMG Principal / Founding Partner Laura Murray was recognized as one of Business in Vancouver‘s 2016 Forty Under 40 at the celebratory gala on January 25, 2017 at the… keep reading
INQUIRE: Christmas with Mr. + Mrs. Claus
We were lucky enough to sit down with the stars of the season and talk treats, creativity, Christmas in Vancouver and lots more. With passers-by waving, stopping… keep reading
Merry Marketing: MPMG’s Favourite Holiday Campaigns
We picked out our favourite holiday-inspired advertisements and campaigns to highlight some successful marketing strategies. Find out why we think these examples really stand out. Jesse’s… keep reading
Welcome to the Team: Allison
Get to know our new Communications Assistant, Allison Birt. Muse: Nature is my muse – I love Vancouver’s spectacular surroundings. I’m lucky enough to have an… keep reading
REMINISCE: Open House Photo Collection
It was such a pleasure to catch up, celebrate and bring some of the amazing people in our community together at our recent open house. We managed… keep reading
Welcome to the Team: Ashley + Andrea
We are thrilled to welcome two talented and passionate new team members to the growing MPMG family. Get to know a little about our new Communications… keep reading
Laura Murray Named One of BIV’s Forty Under 40
We are thrilled to share the news that MPMG Principal / Founding Partner Laura Murray has been selected as one of Business in Vancouver‘s 2016 Forty Under… keep reading
MPMG Named Best PR Firm in Vancouver
This week, MPMG was honoured to be named ‘Best Public Relations Firm’ in The Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver for the second year in a row. We… keep reading
BALANCE: Break the Cycle of Busy
“I’m Busy!” Ask someone how they are doing, and it’s the response you consistently hear. Over the past few years, piles of articles have been… keep reading
INQUIRE: Experts Talk Creativity
We asked some of our favourite creative minds to share their insights + perspectives on this topic so we could share their wisdom with all… keep reading
#MyMPMGLogo Creative Challenge
We invite you to help us celebrate the unveiling of our new brand + challenge yourself to exercise and explore your own creativity! THE CHALLENGE:… keep reading
#HashtagHints
Just a few quick tips + tricks for top-notch tagging from our social savvy digital team. #ICYMI, its #WineWednesday and we’re going to enjoy the… keep reading
EVOLVE: Laura and Brian Talk Rebranding
Why did you feel you needed to rebrand Laura Murray Public Relations and launch Murray Paterson Marketing Group? Laura: When I first launched LMPR in… keep reading
ShakesPR: Publicity Tips from The Bard
We’re celebrating the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death with a few useful insights from The Bard himself! Use these quotes from some of our favourite… keep reading
Marketing the Arts Experience
Marketing the arts, by its very nature, is selling an experience. When an individual books a ticket to a show or purchases admission to an… keep reading
Top Ted Talks: Inspiration + Creativity
Hanah Van Borek suggests: Amy Tan – Where does Creativity Hide? The author of the best-selling novel, Joy Luck Club, shares one of her life’s… keep reading
Five Best Practices to a Winning Headline
Whether you’re writing a press release, blog post, advertisement, or email – its overall effectiveness comes down to the headline. Ask any seasoned journalist, copy… keep reading
LMPR’s Favourite Winter Recipes
There’s nothing better than a cozy meal on a cold day! Here’s a few of our staff’s favourite winter recipes to keep you warm until… keep reading
Professional Tone: It’s All in the Delivery
Be it spoken or written communication, a professional tone will improve the response to a message. When the underlying tone of our conversation says, “I’m… keep reading
Building a Super Fan: Developing Brand Advocates in the Arts
Devoted supporters are essential to achieving success in a competitive arts market. Filling auditoriums is an important goal for marketing the arts but so is… keep reading
Case Study: JOE INK
The Client: Critically acclaimed dance company, JOE INK, is renowned for it’s versatility, creating provocative and lyrical works that balance local performers and projects in partnership… keep reading
LMPR Honoured with BCAMA Marketing Excellence Award
On October 21, 2015 at the Westin Bayshore, the BC Chapter of the American Marketing Association held its 45th Annual Marketer of the Year Gala.… keep reading
Case Study: Vancouver International Flamenco Fest
The Client: The Vancouver International Flamenco Festival is one of few celebrated festivals devoted to the Flamenco art form outside of Spain. Since its beginnings… keep reading
LMPR Named Best PR Firm in Vancouver
This week, LMPR was honoured to be named ‘Best PR Firm’ in The Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver 2015. We are thrilled to be recognized… keep reading
Q&A: Chelsea Isenor
Marketing Assistant Chelsea Isenor is one of the newest team members to join the LMPR family. Her passion for theatre and communications helped her discover… keep reading
How I Spent My Summer Vacation: Jesse Tanaka
LMPR is throwing it back to that perennial school day assignment of, “How I Spent My Summer Vacation.” In the third post of a three… keep reading
On the Page: Favourite Tales of Friendship
Fall is an exciting season, which for many marks new beginnings. It once signalled the start of a new school year, wherein we could look… keep reading
How I Spent My Summer Vacation: Brian Paterson
LMPR is throwing it back to that perennial school day assignment of, “How I Spent My Summer Vacation.” In the second post of a three… keep reading
Ask The Expert: Design
Ask The Expert is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that calls upon the expertise of arts and marketing specialists to provide insight and… keep reading
Q&A: Sarah Ghosh
Senior Communications Coordinator Sarah Ghosh is one of the newest team members to join the quickly growing LMPR family. Bringing her strong written and communications… keep reading
How I Spent My Summer Vacation: Sarah Cruickshank
LMPR is throwing it back to that perennial school day assignment of, “How I Spent My Summer Vacation.” In the first of a three part… keep reading
Q&A: Monique Laaper
Office Manager Monique Laaper recently became a member of the fast-growing LMPR team. Monique began her career in sciences and quickly switched over to theatre,… keep reading
Must Subscribe E-Newsletters for Arts Marketers
People often ask us where we get our arts marketing information – though much of what we do comes from experience and creative team brainstorms,… keep reading
Review: EDGE 2 at Dancing on the Edge
As part of the 27th annual Dancing on the Edge festival, EDGE 2 was a captivating evening featuring the works of three talented and distinct… keep reading
Review: MOVE: the company 10th Anniversary Celebration
Dancing on the Edge kicked off July 2 at venues across Vancouver – the 27th year this celebrated local festival has been presenting the very… keep reading
On the Page: Favourite Novels with Musical Adaptations (Part Two)
We’re musical lovers here at LMPR and this week marks Part Two of our favourite books that have been adapted into musicals. Jesse Tanaka –… keep reading
On the Page: Favourite Novels with Musical Adaptations (Part One)
In honour of Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) upcoming presentation of two of Broadway’s beloved musicals, Hairspray and Oliver!, the team here at LMPR wanted… keep reading
LMPR’s Favourite Summer Songs
In celebration of the beginning of the summer, the LMPR team is thrilled to showcase their favourite shorts-wearing, convertible-cruising, cocktail-sipping songs. Brian Paterson – Wait… keep reading
Case Study: Arts Consulting for Early Music Vancouver – Subscription Sales Strategy
The Client: Early Music Vancouver (EMV) is one of Canada’s most respected classical music presenters, responsible for educating audiences about the ‘early eras’ of music… keep reading
City Sounds: Dominique Fricot
In this edition of City Sounds we were lucky enough to catch up with genre-defying musician, Dominique Fricot. We discussed his humble beginnings, the remarkable… keep reading
Case Study: Ballet Kelowna
The Client: Ballet Kelowna is a prominent B.C. ballet company helmed by former Ballet British Columbia principal artist, Simone Orlando. Presenting an annual season of… keep reading
Insight on: Influence (Part One)
Insight on… is an LMPR blog series that examines marketing principles in practice with successful industry examples and explores what makes them effective. LMPR recently… keep reading
Moving BackWord : Comedy & Tragedy
Exploring etymology, Moving BackWord looks into the history and meaning behind artistic terminology. From its ancient origination to modern adaptation, each word contains a backstory much more… keep reading
On the Page: Favourite Cookbooks (Part Two)
This week the rest of the team is thrilled to share their favourite cookbooks. We discuss everything from delicious vegan treats to home brewed beer… keep reading
Case Study: Pi Theatre presents Blasted
The Client: Pi Theatre is a local company that presents challenging, experimental and intellectual theatre, by contemporary Canadian and international playwrights. Under Artistic Director Richard… keep reading
On the Page: Favourite Cookbooks (Part One)
Here at LMPR, we are all fond of a good home cooked meal and delectable baked goods. To satisfy these cravings we draw our inspiration… keep reading
The Arts Agenda: Capture The Media’s Attention
On Thursday, April 16, Laura Murray Public Relations was the proud host of the second instalment of our workshop series, The Arts Agenda. This session… keep reading
Ask The Expert: Event Ticket Pricing
Ask The Expert is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that calls upon the expertise of arts and marketing specialists to provide insight and… keep reading
Case Study: Vancouver International Dance Festival
The Client: The Vancouver International Dance Festival celebrates culturally diverse contemporary dance in a 10-day showcase throughout Vancouver. Since 1988, VIDF has presented the local dance community… keep reading
Q&A: Hanah Van Borek
Account Manager Hanah Van Borek is one of the newest team members to join LMPR. Bringing with her strong agency experience, excellent communication skills and… keep reading
Week In Review: April 6
Superhero Shuts Down Viaduct X-men spinoff, Deadpool, has taken over Vancouver – shutting down the Georgia Viaduct for filming over a period of two weeks. Starring Vancity native… keep reading
Timing is Everything
September signifies the start of the arts season. And until the season comes to a close next spring, arts organizations will give their full efforts… keep reading
I Used To Be So Popular
How to Increase Your Organic Reach on Facebook. As all arts organizations are aware, social media is one of the most cost effective ways to… keep reading
The Tradition Continues
Why Traditional Collateral Is Still a Vital Tool for Arts Marketers In a digital age where we can reach hundreds of fans around the world… keep reading
Building a Committed Relationship
How to Shift Last-Minute Ticket Buyers into Early Birds Vancouver audiences are notorious for procrastinating on ticket purchases and waiting until the 11th hour to… keep reading
City Sounds: Rococode
In this month’s City Sounds, we were lucky enough to connect with Vancouver based indie pop duo, Rococode. We spoke with Laura Smith via phone… keep reading
World Theatre Day Contest: Win Tickets to Blasted
Every year LMPR celebrates World Theatre Day by offering a chance to experience some of the mind-expanding, thought-provoking, heart-wrenching theatre happening in Vancouver! This year,… keep reading
Review: Theatre at UBC presents Triumph of Love
I am a sucker for a musical comedy, and all the better if it includes love triangles, gender swapping, slightly dirty puns, and clever lyrics.… keep reading
Week in Review – March 16
New Host Named for CBC’s Q After conducting a lengthy search of over 200 applicants, Juno Award winning rapper MC Shad has been named the… keep reading
Moving BackWord : Ballet
Exploring etymology, Moving BackWord looks into the history and meaning behind artistic terminology. From its ancient origination to modern adaptation, each word contains a backstory much more… keep reading
Tweed & Taffeta: Carmen Alatorre
Tweed & Taffeta is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that explores costuming in celebrated performances – the varying interpretations from one production to… keep reading
On the Page: Assigned Reading (Part Two)
Just in time for Spring Break, the team at LMPR is pleased to share On the Page: Assigned Reading (Part Two). This week we discuss two… keep reading
Week in Review – March 2
Researchers Create Music to Meow to Psychologists at the University of Wisconsin have developed feline-friendly music, based on research proving that cats enjoy jamming out… keep reading
Case Study: Love it or List it Vancouver
The Client: Love It or List It Vancouver is a real estate program co-hosted by TV personality and interior designer Jillian Harris and real estate entrepreneur Todd Talbot. During each… keep reading
On The Page: Assigned Reading (Part One)
With Spring Break just around the corner, the LMPR team thought it the perfect time to reminisce about assigned school readings – specifically those that… keep reading
Review: The Village at Firehall Arts Centre
“My soul is starving,” sighs solo performer Tina Milo. Drawing on personal heritage, she portrays a Serbian immigrant and former successful actor, who now finds… keep reading
Week in Review – February 16
Museums to Ban Selfie-Sticks New progress has been made in the never-ending war on vanity, as various museums across America have decided on a ban… keep reading
Media Relations Case Study: c̓əsnaʔəm, the city before the city
The Client: c̓əsnaʔəm, the city before the city is a momentous, five year exhibit between the Musqueam First Nation, the Museum of Anthropology (MOA), and… keep reading
Moving BackWord : Actor
Exploring etymology, Moving BackWord looks into the history and meaning behind artistic terminology. From its ancient origination to modern adaptation, each word contains a backstory much more… keep reading
Week in Review: February 2
PuSh Enters Final Week The PuSh International Performing Arts Festival entered the final week of its 2015 season wrapping up on February 8. Since its… keep reading
City Sounds: Quick Bites
With a new year comes new local artists to keep your eye on. With this, City Sounds is back with another edition of our top, local… keep reading
Review: PostSecret: The Show
Both immensely enjoyable and deeply touching, PostSecret: The Show is a profound journey into our innermost secrets – our joys, struggles, and deepest thoughts that… keep reading
Week in Review: January 5
Charlie Hebdo Attacked French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo suffered a brutal attack on January 6, where 12 people were killed. The violence targeting the Paris… keep reading
On the Page: #TBT Favourite Christmas Reads (Part Two)
With Christmas just around the corner, the LMPR team is pleased to share part two of the very special #TBT edition of On the Page. This… keep reading
Ask The Expert: Social Media for Audience Growth
Ask The Expert is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that calls upon the expertise of arts and marketing specialists to provide insight and… keep reading
On the Page: #TBT Favourite Christmas Reads (Part One)
The Christmas season has a very special way of making you feel like a little kid again. So for this month’s On the Page, the LMPR team… keep reading
City Sounds: It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Disney
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and it’s about to get even better as the Biltmore Cabaret presents The Wonderful World of Disney… keep reading
Review: things near & far
At once visually engaging and immensely thoughtful, things near & far is a journey through time and movement, joined by a consideration of relationships, both… keep reading
Media Relations Case Study: Eastside Culture Crawl
The Client: The Eastside Culture Crawl is an annual four-day arts festival that involves visual artists of all disciplines opening their studios and homes to… keep reading
City Sounds: The Tourist Company (Part Two)
In part two of The Tourist Company edition of City Sounds, we were fortunate enough to have caught up with the group after they performed at… keep reading
Week in Review: November 17
Vancouver’s Eastside Culture Crawl Enters 18th Season The 18th annual Eastside Culture Crawl sees visual artists from East Vancouver’s vibrant arts and culture scene open their studios… keep reading
Media Relations Case Study: The Virtual Stage – ‘On Death’s Door: Plague of the Zombie Syndrome’
The Client Founded in 2000, The Virtual Stage is a Vancouver-based theatre company with a unique mandate to investigate emerging technologies in live performance. In… keep reading
City Sounds: The Tourist Company (Part One)
In this month’s, City Sounds, we spoke with The Tourist Company. In Part One we connected with Jillian Levey (vocals/glockenspiel/keys) and Brenon Parry (drums/percussion) by… keep reading
On the Page: Frightening Favourites (Part Two)
Just in time for Hallowe’en, we present part two of the LMPR team’s favourite frightening reads. This week we delve into different, but equally… keep reading
Review: Denise Clark’s wag
If there’s one commonality shared by each and every one of us, it’s our innate, human search for happiness. While the meaning of bliss has… keep reading
On the Page: Frightening Favourites (Part One)
With Hallowe’en right around the corner, we here at LMPR wanted to share our favourite frightening reads. In part one of this two part… keep reading
Tweed & Taffeta: Linda Chow
Tweed & Taffeta is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that explores costuming in celebrated performances – the varying interpretations from one production to… keep reading
Statistical Insight on the Arts
Hill Strategies Research conducted an eye-opening study to examine the number and situation of artists in Canada. This research acts as a statistical profile of… keep reading
Ask The Expert
Ask The Expert is a new series from Laura Murray Public Relations that calls upon the expertise of arts and marketing specialists to provide insight… keep reading
City Sounds: Dear Rouge (Part Two)
In part two of the Dear Rouge edition of City Sounds, Drew McTaggert speaks to their strong start, the benefit of music festivals, and what… keep reading
Week in Review: September 22
VIFF Opens in Vancouver The Vancouver International Film Festival opened this Thursday and runs until October 10. The annual event has become a major attraction… keep reading
City Sounds: Dear Rouge (Part One)
In this month’s City Sounds, we spoke with Drew McTaggart of Dear Rouge. In this first of two articles, he discusses the progression of being… keep reading
What’s Cookin’ at LMPR?
With September came the beginning of an exhilarating new journey for us here at LMPR. With eager anticipation, we packed up our belongings, and made the leap into our… keep reading
Tweed & Taffeta: Marjory Fielding (Part Two)
In part two of this special edition of Tweed & Taffeta, Marjory Fielding, Wardrobe Supervisor with the renowned National Ballet of Canada gives helpful advice… keep reading
Week in Review: September 8
Vancouver Fringe Festival Fills the Stage The Vancouver Fringe Festival entered its final week of performances concluding on September 14. The annual celebration organized by… keep reading
Tweed & Taffeta: Marjory Fielding (Part One)
Tweed & Taffeta is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that explores costuming in celebrated performances – the varying interpretations from one production to… keep reading
Promotions Case Study: Theatre Under the Stars
The Client For nearly 75 years, Theatre Under the Stars has brought soaring works of song & dance to the crown jewel of Vancouver… keep reading
On the Page: Favourite Travel Reads (Part Two)
Just in time for the Labour Day long weekend, we present part two of our two part series of the LMPR teams favourite travel reads.… keep reading
Vancouver Fringe Festival 2014: Brian’s Picks
In just one week the 2014 Vancouver Fringe Festival will descend upon the city for 11 frenetic days. Hundreds of artists will congregate on Granville… keep reading
City Sounds: Quick Bites
Vancouver is a multifaceted, multicultural city and with this comes unique talents and a naturally diverse music scene. City Sounds is a new LMPR series highlighting… keep reading
Week in Review: Aug 11
Robin Williams and Lauren Bacall Pass The arts world saw the loss of two major talents in Robin Williams and Lauren Bacall this week. … keep reading
On the Page: Favourite Travel Reads (Part One)
The summer season – a time for travelling, relaxing, lounging by the beach and, most of all, a time for literature. The LMPR team recognizes… keep reading
Media Relations Case Study: Theatre Under the Stars
The Client For nearly 75 years, Theatre Under the Stars has brought soaring works of song & dance to the crown jewel of Vancouver –… keep reading
Week In Review: July 28
Goh Ballet Dancers Earn Top International Awards A pair of 15 year-old dancers have earned the top two spots at the Wein Welt Wettbewerb international ballet… keep reading
Q&A: Shona Wercholuk
Communications Coordinator Shona Wercholuk is the newest member of the LMPR team. With a background in arts administration, public relations, and a passion for Vancouver’s independent music scene,… keep reading
Ask The Expert
Ask The Expert is a new series from Laura Murray Public Relations that calls upon the expertise of arts and marketing specialists to provide insight… keep reading
Week in Review: July 14
Lorin Maazel and Elaine Stritch Pass The arts world lost two of its finest as Lorin Maazel and Elaine Stritch passed away this week. … keep reading
Online Marketing Case Study: Theatre Under the Stars
The Client For nearly 75 years, Theatre Under the Stars has brought soaring works of song & dance to the crown jewel of Vancouver –… keep reading
Review: The Body In Question
On today’s stages, there’s no shortage of thoughtful and creative works from talented dance artists and creators – original choreographies that pull you in through… keep reading
The Week in Review: June 30
Vancouver Dances on the Edge The 26th annual Dancing on the Edge Festival hit stages across Vancouver this Thursday. The festival celebrates the very… keep reading
Case Study: MOA – Claiming Space
The Client A local treasure, the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at UBC is vital to our collective understanding of culture, history, and humanity. Hosting an… keep reading
Summer Cocktails: Pepparotti
With patio season just around the corner, LMPR recently got together to share delicious summer cocktails from the classic to the eclectic. Every week throughout… keep reading
Week in Review: June 16
Bard on the Beach Celebrates 25th Anniversary Vancouver Shakespeare festival, Bard on the Beach entered the second week of its 25th anniversary season. This year’s festival will feature A… keep reading
Summer Cocktails: The Pink Lady
With patio season just around the corner, LMPR recently got together to share delicious summer cocktails from the classic to the eclectic. Every week throughout… keep reading
Up All Night: Brian Paterson
Up All Night is a new feature from Laura Murray Public Relations that asks LMPR staff + arts community guests why they’re losing sleep- whether… keep reading
Summer Cocktails: Hemingway’s Daiquiri
With patio season just around the corner, LMPR recently got together to share delicious summer cocktails from the classic to the eclectic. Every week throughout… keep reading
Week in Review: June 2
Cirque Du Soleil Lost and Found Cirque du Soleil fell victim to theft during their Vancouver run of Totem this week. Three men reportedly broke… keep reading
Summer Cocktails: The Mockarena
With patio season just around the corner, LMPR recently got together to share delicious summer cocktails from the classic to the eclectic. Every week throughout… keep reading
Review: The Art of Stealing
It’s dark, it’s gritty – it’s a reflection of a world no one wants to know. The Art of Stealing from local contemporary dance company… keep reading
Summer Cocktails: Snow White
With patio season just around the corner, LMPR recently got together to share delicious summer cocktails from the classic to the eclectic. Every week throughout… keep reading
Week in Review: May 19
Jessie Richardson Theatre Award Nominations Announced The Jessie Richardson Theatre Award nominations were announced this week honouring the best in Vancouver theatre. Bard on the… keep reading
Summer Cocktails: Annie Get Your Rum
With patio season just around the corner, LMPR recently got together to share delicious summer cocktails from the classic to the eclectic. Every week throughout… keep reading
LMPR Tech: Open Source Graphic Design
LMPR Tech is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that explores the latest digital tools and trends and how to get the most out… keep reading
Summer Cocktails: Michael Bubbly
With patio season just around the corner, LMPR recently got together to share delicious summer cocktails from the classic to the eclectic. Every week throughout… keep reading
Review: Oleanna by Bleeding Heart Theatre & Xua Xua Productions
Fifteen minutes after the show, I found myself in argument with a complete stranger. Oleanna will have that effect. Written in 1992 by the… keep reading
Week in Review: May 5
Farley Mowat Passes at 92 Farley Mowat, one of Canada’s most treasured authors and environmentalists has passed away at age 92. The recipient of the… keep reading
Tweed & Taffeta: Laura Fukumoto
Tweed & Taffeta is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that explores costuming in celebrated performances – the varying interpretations from one production to… keep reading
Case Study: ITSAZOO Presents Killer Joe
The Client ITSAZOO Productions specializes in fun, affordable, and accessible theatre presented at site-specific and non-traditional venues. The youthful company presented the grisly, pitch-black comedy, Killer Joe penned… keep reading
International Dance Day 2014
Movers and groovers around the world are celebrating International Dance Day today, April 29, with unique and creative festivals, parties, and performances. First introduced… keep reading
Week in Review: April 21
Alistair MacLeod Passes at 77 Acclaimed Canadian novelist, Alistair MacLeod has passed away at age 77. MacLeod has been recognized as one of Canada’s greatest… keep reading
Q&A: Jesse Tanaka
Digital Coordinator Jesse Tanaka is LMPR’s newest member of the team. With a background in independent music and a special skill set in online marketing, Jesse… keep reading
Tweed & Taffeta: Carmen Alatorre
Tweed & Taffeta is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that explores costuming in celebrated performances – the varying interpretations from one production to… keep reading
Week in Review: April 7
CBC Cuts Deep CBC announced significant cuts due to funding and revenue shortfalls this week. The cuts will result in a loss of 657 jobs and… keep reading
Case Study: 2014 Vancouver International Dance Festival
The Client Now in it’s 14th year, the Vancouver International Dance Festival (VIDF) is a social-profit, artist run organization that scours the globe, and its… keep reading
Week in Review: March 31
Vancouver Fooled This year, April Fools’ Day rocked Vancouver with creative pranks from top-ranking organizations across Metro Vancouver and beyond. Highlights included the proposed Vancouver… keep reading
Review: To Wear a Heart So White by Leaky Heaven
It is a strange thing, the way programming can echo around a city. In the past year we’ve had two Measure for Measure‘s, two Odd… keep reading
World Theatre Day Contest: Win Tickets to Floyd Collins
World Theatre Day is upon us once again, and just like we’ve done in the past on Creatively Speaking, we’d like to share our love… keep reading
Review: Ubu Roi by Theatre UBC
Suffice to say: you’ve never seen anything quite like Ubu Roi. The bizarre work was penned by Alfred Jaffy in 1896 as an absurd,… keep reading
Week in Review: March 17
Music Streaming on the Rise For the first time ever, paid music streaming services including those like Spotify and Beats Music have broken the $1… keep reading
Case Study: The Vancouver Recital Society presents Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott
The Client Formed in 1980, the Vancouver Recital Society presents an annual recital series featuring the world finest classical musicians and emerging generations of artistic… keep reading
Review: Lowest Common Denominator by Zee Zee Theatre
Zee Zee Theatre is a company that exists to tell stories in the lives of the marginalized. It is perhaps no surprise then that their… keep reading
The Venue: York Theatre
The venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
Review: Porno Death Cult by Tara Cheyenne Friedenberg
Outrageous, awesome, inspiring, quirky, bold, unapologetic, endearing – the list of adjectives that can adequately describe Tara Cheyenne Friedenberg is endless. As a dancer,… keep reading
Social media and online casinos
Social media has become a really massive part of the modern world, as platforms such as Twitter and Facebook become more popular all the time… keep reading
On the Page: LMPR’s Favourite Books by First Nations Authors
In honour of this week’s Coastal First Nations Dance Festival taking place at UBC’s Museum of Anthropology (MOA), as well as MOA’s upcoming presentation of… keep reading
Review: Me So You So Me by Out Innerspace Dance Theatre
It’s arguably the most common, well-worn subject on the planet – the tale of a boy, a girl, and the love that binds them. Consequently,… keep reading
Week In Review: February 17
Bringing Art Back to the Olympics Over at Huffington Post blogger Jon Packer has made a case for art to be restored to the Olympics.… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: TJ Dawe
A Room of One’s Own is LMPR’s photography series that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of Canada’s artistic scene. With a nod to… keep reading
Case Study: Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents Romeo + Juliet
The Client Founded in 1939, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet (RWB) is Canada’s oldest ballet company and the longest continuously operating ballet company in North… keep reading
Review: The Seagull by Theatre at UBC
Theatre at UBC’s The Seagull is a handsome portrait of desperation, ambition, pretence, and heartache. Director Kathleen Duborg leads her young cast in a fast-moving,… keep reading
Tweed & Taffeta: Romeo + Juliet
Tweed & Taffeta is a series from Laura Murray Public Relations that explores costuming in celebrated performances – the varying interpretations from one production to… keep reading
Case Study: Blackbird Theatre presents Uncle Vanya
The Client Established in 2005, Blackbird Theatre Company is Vancouver’s foremost presenter of classical theatre, drawing its inspiration from the great playwrights of the… keep reading
A Beautifully Balletic Wedding
When the Royal Winnipeg Ballet comes to Vancouver with Romeo + Juliet at the end of this month, Principal Dancers Amanda Green will be one of… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: Kevin Bennett
A Room of One’s Own is LMPR’s photography series that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of Canada’s artistic scene. With a nod to… keep reading
The Venue: Chan Centre for the Performing Arts
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
Week in Review: December 30
New Order of Canada Inductees Recognized 90 new appointments were made to the Order of Canada – an honour that recognizes outstanding achievement along with… keep reading
Case Study: Vancouver Bach Choir presents Christmas with the Bach Choir and Handel’s Messiah
The Client The Vancouver Bach Choir (VBC) is an award-winning 120+ voice symphonic choir committed to offering vibrant choral experiences to its audiences. This… keep reading
On the Page: LMPR’s Favourite Books on Family
Beyond the Sugar Plum Fairy and St. Nick, the holiday season often means more time with family. This week, the LMPR team shares their favourite… keep reading
Week in Review: December 9
Chris Hadfield Takes to the Stage Canada’s favourite astronaut is stepping into a new adventure – and the spotlight. The National Ballet of Canada has… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: Darcy Van Poelgeest
A Room of One’s Own is LMPR’s photography series that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of Canada’s artistic scene. With a nod to… keep reading
Happy Holidays from LMPR
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The Arts Appeal: Taking a page from Charles Dickens
The Arts Appeal shines a spotlight on the craft of fundraising for the arts. While many arts organizations are now mid-season, it’s the heart of… keep reading
The Week in Review: November 25
Need A Lozenge? Ask the Chicago Symphony Orchestra At a recent performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 9, Conductor Tilson Thomas was irked by coughing fits from the audience.… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: Joseph Elworthy
A Room of One’s Own is LMPR’s photography series that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of Canada’s artistic scene. With a nod to… keep reading
Review: Cool Beans by Solo Collective Theatre
Anton Lipovestky is quickly establishing himself as one of the fastest rising stars in Vancouver’s bustling theatre scene. At just twenty-three years old, the Studio… keep reading
Designing Floyd Collins
This fall LMPR had the opportunity to work with Vancouver-based artist Emily Cooper as she designed artwork for Patrick Street Productions‘ 2014 season. The photographer… keep reading
The Week In Review: November 11
Record Breaking Art at Auction On Tuesday, November 12 a 1969 Francis Bacon triptych sold for $142.4 million – the highest price ever paid for a work of… keep reading
Case Study: The Cultch presents The Rap Guide to Evolution
The Client In late October 2013, The Cultch – one of Vancouver’s most significant theatre, music, and dance presenters – staged rapper Baba Brinkman’s The Rap Guide to Evolution. Brinkman, combining… keep reading
Q&A: Sarah Cruickshank
Coordinator, Marketing + Online Sarah Cruickshank is LMPR’s newest member of the team. With a background in dance and PR, Sarah looks forward to combining her passions and working with… keep reading
The Week in Review: October 28
New York Times Rejects Banksy The notorious street artist was denied a spot in the New York Times popular op-ed section, so he self-published his article to his website−a scathing critique of the World Trade… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: Naomi Stikeman
A Room of One’s Own is LMPR’s photography series that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of the artistic community. With a nod to… keep reading
The Week in Review: October 14
BANKSY IN NY The infamous street artist Banksy is loose in New York this month, conducting the most unconventional of residencies. The city-wide exhibition, called… keep reading
Case Study: DWD Theatre Design + Consulting
The Client DWD Theatre Design + Consulting is a team of highly skilled and dedicated specialty theatre consultants. They are designers, project managers, and performing… keep reading
The Venue: Chan Centre for the Performing Arts
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
Case Study: Paradise Lost? at MOA
The Client The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at UBC is a vital institution whose contributions to our collective understanding of culture, history, and humanity cannot… keep reading
Contest: Win Advance Screening Passes to Romeo & Juliet
Laura Murray Public Relations and Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet are offering Vancouverites the opportunity to attend a special advance screening of Romeo & Juliet on Monday… keep reading
Review: The Foreigner by Pacific Theatre
Larry Shue’s The Foreigner is a madcap, hilarious, and thoroughly heartwarming evening of entertainment. Featuring the most ludicrous of premises and characters bordering on cartoons,… keep reading
Review: The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Theatre at UBC
Bertolt Brecht's 'epic theatre' can be a challenging thing. Most drama seeks to convey meaning by suspending an audience's disbelief and drawing them into its… keep reading
The Week in Review: September 9
AUTUMN IS COMING With the kids back in school and Labour Day weekend in the rearview mirror, Vancouver turned its head to the future this… keep reading
The Arts Appeal: A Measured Approach to Special Events
The Arts Appeal shines a spotlight on the craft of fundraising for the arts. Today, we tackle an old fundraising go-to that may be riskier… keep reading
Vancouver Fringe Festival 2013: Brian’s Picks
There is an excitement and electricity totally unique to Fringe Festivals. The volume and variety of shows and lottery-based selection system mean that every performance… keep reading
The Week in Review: August 19
ART & THE MIND A Canadian study released this week demonstrated that artists are better protected against Dementia. Coming out of St. Michael’s Hospital in… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: Andy Thompson
A Room of One’s Own is LMPR’s photography series that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of Canada’s artistic scene. With a nod to Virginia Woolf’s essay… keep reading
The Week in Review: July 29
THE RETURN OF THE SIMINOVITCH The Canadian theatre community issued a collective sigh of disappointment last fall, when it was announced that the Siminovitch Prize-… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: Tara Birtwhistle
A Room of One’s Own is a photography series by Laura Murray Public Relations that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of Canada’s artistic scene.… keep reading
The Week in Review: July 15
J.K. ROWLING CALLED OUT It was revealed this week that J.K. Rowling is the latest in a long line of authors to release books under… keep reading
The Arts Appeal: To thine own self be true
In this new series, we shine a spotlight on the craft of fundraising for the arts. Today, we explore the important role an arts organization’s… keep reading
The Venue: Malkin Bowl
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
The Week in Review: July 1
EMILY CARR SHORTLIST UNVEILED A shortlist of architects for the new Emily Carr University was announced this week. The three final candidates are Vancouver-based Bing… keep reading
On the Page: LMPR’s Favourite Summer Reads
By the sea on a patio, in the forest at a campsite, or at the bottom of the garden, summer in Vancouver provides multiple opportunities… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: Simon Webb
A Room of One’s Own is a new photography series by Laura Murray Public Relations that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of Canada’s artistic… keep reading
Q&A: Rachel Lowry
Director, Communications + Promotions Rachel Lowry is LMPR's newest member of the team. With a rich background in music performance and marketing, Rachel comes to… keep reading
The Week in Review: June 17
DANCE YOUR THESIS 2013 KICKS OFF A delightful online competition kicked off this week open to past and present Ph.D. students working in science fields.… keep reading
Review: You Are Very Star by Electric Company
You Are Very Star is a curious, inventive, and adventurous evening of artistic experiences. The site specific work unfolds at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, which,… keep reading
Review: Les Misérables at Queen Elizabeth Theatre
At some point in Les Misérables' 28 year history, the tagline 'The Musical Phenomenon' became attached to it. If any Broadway production deserves the description, this is… keep reading
The Venue: Performance Works
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
The Week in Review: June 3
VANCOUVER’S MANHOLE COVERS GET ARTISTIC MAKEOVER The City of Vancouver launched a competition for artists to design manhole covers for the city, to distinguish sanitary… keep reading
Colour & Character: Purple
Colour & Character is an LMPR blog series that looks at the emotional and psychological associations different colours possess and the ways in which marketers… keep reading
The Week in Review: May 20
JESSIE RICHARDSON THEATRE AWARD NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED The 31st Annual Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards nominations were announced this week in Vancouver. A celebration of the city's thespian… keep reading
Review: Dissolve by Shameless Hussy Productions
Everyone should go see Dissolve. Not because it is entertaining, moving, or funny (though it is all three) – but because it shines light on… keep reading
Case Study: Safar/Voyage at MOA
The Client In April of 2013, the Museum of Anthropology at UBC launched one of the largest and most ambitious exhibitions it had ever undertaken. Safar/Voyage:… keep reading
The Week in Review: May 6
VAM ANNOUNCES MAJOR HONG KONG PROJECT The Vancouver Academy of Music (VAM) announced their involvement in the development of a brand new, world-class education music… keep reading
A Room of One’s Own: Tara Cheyenne Friedenberg
A Room of One’s Own is a new photography series by Laura Murray Public Relations that showcases the beloved spaces belonging to members of Canada’s artistic… keep reading
The Week in Review: April 22
SUN TV GOES BEFORE THE CRTC Conservative news channel Sun TV, informally referred to as ‘Fox News North,’ went before the CRTC in a series… keep reading
Case Study: Roy Henry Vickers & Robert Budd’s ‘Raven Brings the Light’
The Client On Saturday April 6, 2013 at Vancouver’s Waterfall Building, Roy Henry Vickers, one of Canada’s most-lauded artists, launched his largest-ever collection of new… keep reading
Delicious Summer Cocktails: Watermelon Tequila
Summer cocktails are always an excellent treat after a hard day at the office or at the end of an exhausting gardening session in the… keep reading
The Venue: The Orpheum
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
The Week in Review: April 8
LORNA CROZIER WINS LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR’S LITERARY PRIZE BC poet and Governor General award-winner, Lorna Crozier, was awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Literary Excellence at… keep reading
Review: The Life Game by Truth Be Told Theatre
When most hear the words ‘theatre’ and ‘improvisation’ they default to thinking about theatresports- short games in the style of Whose Line is it Anyways?… keep reading
Case Study: Shiamak Davar at the TOIFA Awards
The Client Known as India’s guru of contemporary dance, Shiamak Davar is a much sought-after choreographer known for his trendsetting work in Bollywood blockbusters and… keep reading
On The Page: LMPR’s Favourite Works of Poetry
Angela Poon – Beowulf, A New Verse Translation, by Seamus Heaney The first time I was tasked with reading Beowulf, a difficult translation left… keep reading
Review: Billy Elliot: The Musical at Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Broadway Across Canada returned to Vancouver yesterday evening, arriving with musical theatre of a scale rarely witnessed in the city. The current production is Billy… keep reading
World Theatre Day Contest: Win Tickets to Phantom of the Opera
Each World Theatre Day, we like to offer our regular Creatively Speaking readers an opportunity to win an exciting performing arts experience in our city.… keep reading
The Week in Review: March 11
This installation of The Week in Review focuses on festivals in Vancouver, Canada, and throughout the world. We share highlights of the good news, bad… keep reading
Q&A: Rebecca Sharma
Marketing Director Rebecca Sharma is LMPR's newest member of the team. With a rich background in non-profit and arts marketing, Rebecca comes to LMPR from… keep reading
Case Study: Joe Ink presents Retrospective: 25 Years
The Client Choreographer Joe Laughlin is an essential figure within the Vancouver and Canadian dance community. The award-winning creator and performer has had a rich… keep reading
Review: Mother Teresa is Dead at Pacific Theatre
Something Pacific Theatre does exceedingly well is address big philosophical issues through stories about relatable events and individuals. Mother Teresa is Dead, a guest production… keep reading
The Week in Review: February 25
PUSH FESTIVAL’S NORMAN ARMOUR TO DIRECT PAULINE Norman Armour, known best for heading the PuSh International Performing Arts Festival, will direct City Opera’s anticipated new… keep reading
On The Page: LMPR’s Favourite Books to Broaden Horizons
We have the opportunity to work with a diverse range of arts and culture organizations – from Shiamak Davar to Dancers of Damelahamid to the… keep reading
Review: My Funny Valentine by Zee Zee Theatre
On February 12, 2008, Brandon McInerney walked into his school's computer lab and shot his gay classmate, Lawrence King, twice in the head. This is… keep reading
The Week in Review: February 11
After a hectic January, with numerous arts festivals and recaps of 2012's offerings, February shifts focus toward year ahead, including numerous 2013/14 artistic seasons and… keep reading
Crowdfunding for the Arts – Part Two
This is the second in a two-part LMPR blog series looking at crowdfunding tools such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo. Click here to read Part One.… keep reading
Crowdfunding for the Arts – Part One
One of the most recent and exciting developments in the world of arts funding is the rise of web-based crowdfunding. Using websites such as Kickstarter and… keep reading
On The Page: LMPR’s Favourite Books to Start the Year
With 2013 already streaming by, the LMPR team used January to take stock of their reading habits and ambitions for the year ahead. We present… keep reading
The Week in Review: January 28
IT’S OFFICIAL: ART IS GOOD FOR YOU Hill Strategies’ recent report, The Arts and Individual Well-Being in Canada, provided impressive arguments for including culture within… keep reading
Review: Rhinoceros by Theatre at UBC
Born in Romania in 1909, playwright Eugene Ionesco had a front row seat for some of the most devastating political and social movements of the… keep reading
The Venue: Pacific Theatre
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
The Week in Review: January 14
With PuSh Festival in full swing, gossip about the Golden Globes continuing, and the theatre season launching once more this month, the arts community is… keep reading
Case Study: Blackbird Theatre presents Don Juan
The Client Blackbird Theatre is Vancouver's foremost presenter of classical theatre. In its short existence, the company has mounted highly-acclaimed productions by such far-ranging playwrights… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Joe Laughlin.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the artistic… keep reading
Review: Ordinary Days by Relephant Theatre
Musical theatre often tends to focus on grand subjects: epic lives played out against a backdrop of revolutionary France, a masked, supernatural creature in the… keep reading
Colour & Character: Green
Colour & Character is an LMPR blog series that looks at the emotional and psychological associations different colours possess and the ways in which marketers… keep reading
Case Study: Vancouver Bach Choir presents El Niño
The Client For the 2012 holiday season, the Vancouver Bach Choir made a bold decision to forgo the regular Christmas program of Handel's Messiah and… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Peter Chu.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the artistic… keep reading
The Week in Review: December 3
TIFF NAMES TOP CANADIAN FILMS OF 2012 A jury assembled by the Toronto International Film Festival has released a list of Top 10 Canadian Films… keep reading
Review: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe at Pacific Theatre
Last year, with just two performers on its intimate stage, Pacific Theatre presented a Christmas Carol that whisked audiences about Dickens' London through a heartwarming… keep reading
On The Page: LMPR’s Favourite Books Under the Tree
'Tis the season, for both a busy arts and culture sector, and upcoming festivities. In the LMPR office, between promotions, each of us is considering… keep reading
Guest Review: Winners and Losers at Gateway Theatre
Produced by Theatre Replacement and Neworld Theatre in association with Crow’s Theatre A guest review from Vancouver arts journalist Jo Ledingham. Jo has an MA… keep reading
The Venue: Biltmore Cabaret
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
Case Study: The VAM Symphony Orchestra presents Beethoven Celebration
The Client On November 18, 2012 at The Orpheum Theatre, the Vancouver Academy of Music Symphony Orchestra presented Beethoven Celebration. The concert celebrated the great… keep reading
Review: Race by Mitch and Murray Productions
One of art's great purposes is to hold a mirror up to society. In Race, David Mamet takes a scalpel to it, dredging to light… keep reading
The Week in Review – November 12
PuSH FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 2013 LINEUP PuSH International Performing Arts Festival announced their lineup for 2013, with more than 160 shows presented between January 15 and… keep reading
Guest Review: Kid Gloves at Firehall Arts Centre
It is out great pleasure to share our first guest review from Vancouver arts journalist Jo Ledingham. Jo has an MA in Dramatic Literature (UBC)… keep reading
Review: Play with Monsters by Solo Collective Theatre
Play with Monsters, the latest work from celebrated local playwright Aaron Bushkowsky, is a quirky and absurd tale about parents, children, and the multitude of… keep reading
Designing the Don
Last year we wrote a post called 'Designing for Godot' that followed the creation of a poster for Blackbird Theatre's Waiting for Godot from final concept… keep reading
Review: Wittenberg at Pacific Theatre
Playwright David Davalos' Wittenberg is a stimulating and thought-provoking piece of theatre that plays out like a fantasy-league for philosophical minds. Reaching across history and… keep reading
The Week in Review – October 29
CANADIAN POP STARS CELEBRATE HAMLET WITH STRATFORD Popular Canadian Indie band, Stars, has partnered with The Stratford Shakespeare Festival to work on a show inspired… keep reading
On The Page: LMPR’s Most Inspiring Books
Each member of the LMPR team shares two particular qualities: striving for excellence and a dedication to furthering culture in society. These traits influence our… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Heather Redfern.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Case Study: Angélique Kidjo at the Chan Centre
The Client The Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at the University of British Columbia has earned an international reputation for its striking design and… keep reading
Review: Debts by ITSAZOO Productions
Back in Vancouver for its second year, Debts is a creepy and adventurous evening that combines the ingenuity of site-specific theatre with the thrill of… keep reading
The Week in Review: October 15
Highlights, conversations, and news from the world of arts & culture. ART THIEF STRIKES IN EUROPE Art news made the front pages this week, when seven… keep reading
Review: The Sorrows of Young Werther at Theatre UBC
The Sorrows of Young Werther is a taut 80 minutes of theatre charting a young man's tempestuous journey from infatuation to destruction. Adapted from Goethe's… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Alexis Fletcher.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
The Week in Review: October 2
Highlights, conversations, and news from the world of arts & culture. PICASSO WROTE PLAYS FOR A PHILOSOPHER’S DREAM CAST The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum will… keep reading
Review: The Spitfire Grill at Pacific Theatre
Musical theatre tends to be associated with massive casts, splashy numbers, and grand, showy productions. There is another category of musical, however, that eschews such… keep reading
Review: The Duchess aka Wallis Simpson by Theatre UBC
Canadian playwright Linda Griffiths’ The Duchess aka Wallis Simpson is the story of an infamous woman for whom Edward VIII abdicated his throne (paving the… keep reading
The Week in Review: September 17
In our new series, we bring you the weekly highlights of cultural conversations and news from the arts world. RUSHDIE CELEBRATES INDEPENDENT BOOKSELLERS Author Salman Rushdie… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Carmen Aguirre.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Review: Clybourne Park at Arts Club
Humans are tribal creatures. While we may be far removed historically from our more primitive ancestors, at a basic social level, we continue to structure… keep reading
On the Page: LMPR’s Favourite Books about the Performing Arts
At the outset, literature and performing arts would seem to reside on completely different spectrums of the art world. Theatre relies on the outward demonstration… keep reading
Review: Jersey Boys at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Seven years after its Broadway opening, Vancouver residents finally had the opportunity to experience the long-running, Tony-winning musical, Jersey Boys yesterday evening (also soon-to-be-a-film). The show,… keep reading
Colour & Character: Blue
Colour & Character is an LMPR blog series that looks at the emotional and psychological associations different colours possess and the ways in which marketers… keep reading
Unveiling the Vancouver Bach Choir’s 2012/13 Season Artwork
The LMPR team have been hard at work these past several months, collaborating with the Vancouver Bach Choir and Copilot Design to develop the imagery… keep reading
Case Study: Dances for a Small Stage 26 & 27
The Client Celebrating its 10th season, Dances for a Small Stage presented a first in its long-running, incredibly popular dance series – back-to-back shows highlighting… keep reading
The Venue: Jericho Arts Centre
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
Case Study: Indian Summer Festival 2012
The Client Indian Summer Festival returned to Vancouver from July 5 to 15, 2012 for an incredible, week-long celebration of Indian culture, arts, and ideas.… keep reading
Review: Armed by Xua Xua Productions
What it is that makes a man feel like a man? And if lost, how far might your average Joe go to reclaim it? … keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Rob Gloor.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Indian Summer à la Instagram
The team was out yesterday evening for the Indian Summer Festival‘s Opening Gala. In between managing the media desk and working with journalists to coordinate… keep reading
The Venue: Audain Gallery
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues, diving… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Barb Clausen.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Colour & Character: Red
Under the Influence, a fantastic CBC program exploring the marketing industry, recently aired an episode devoted entirely to colour. It focused on how different hues… keep reading
Review: The Taming of the Shrew by Bard on the Beach
Bard on the Beach has launched its 23rd season in Vanier Park with a boisterous, rollicking production of Shakespeare’s great comedy, The Taming of the Shrew.… keep reading
The Venue: Chapel Arts
The Venue is a profile series from Laura Murray Public Relations that ventures behind the scenes of Metro Vancouver’s foremost arts and culture venues,… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Mark Fewer
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Case Study: Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents Svengali
The Client Founded in 1939, Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet holds the double distinction of being Canada’s premier ballet company and the longest continuously operating ballet… keep reading
Review: The Exquisite Hour by Relephant Theatre
Relephant Theatre's The Exquisite Hour is an endlessly charming play celebrating the capacity for a life to change in 60 short minutes. It is a… keep reading
Why I Do This or How Hamlet Charted My Course
Last Wednesday, a blogger named Shakespeare Geek (real name Duane) issued a challenge: If Shakespeare means something to you, then you should consider yourself… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Julia Drake
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Review: The Last Days of Judas Iscariot by Pound of Flesh Theatre
Within literature and theatre, the activity of analyzing, dissecting, and reinterpreting a work’s characters is beyond commonplace. Whether academically studying a character in an English… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Leslie Dala
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Case Study: Ute Lemper at the Chan Centre
The Client The Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at the University of British Columbia has earned an international reputation for its striking design and… keep reading
World Theatre Day 2012
Here at Laura Murray PR, we're pretty unabashed about how much we love the performing arts; the joy, insight, and multitude of benefits they bestow… keep reading
Review: Macbeth at Theatre UBC
Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s most frequently staged works. In Vancouver alone, we will be treated to two productions this year- one by Theatre UBC… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Sean Devine.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Case Study: The Dancers of Damelahamid’s Coastal First Nations Dance Festival
The Client From March 8-11, 2012 the Dancers of Damelahamid presented the Coastal First Nations Dance Festival at the Museum of Anthropology at UBC. The annual… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Josh Beamish.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Review: Doubt at Pacific Theatre
Doubt is the second play by John Patrick Shanley on Pacific Theatre’s 2011/12 season, the first being Danny and the Deep Blue Sea, which was… keep reading
Review: King Lear by The Honest Fishmongers Equity Co-op
The Honest Fishmongers Equity Co-op production of King Lear is an intimate, fresh, and deeply moving encounter with one of the bard’s greatest works. … keep reading
Case Study: The VAM Symphony Orchestra presents Eternal Light
The Client On February 19, 2012 at The Orpheum Theatre, the Vancouver Academy of Music Symphony Orchestra presented Eternal Light. The concert commemorated the 10… keep reading
Writing for Svengali: Creating a Ballet’s Tagline
Several months ago, we looked at the process of designing a poster for Waiting for Godot, showcasing how the final product emerged through the careful… keep reading
Review: Problem Child & The End of Civilization by Theatre at UBC
The Suburban Motel series holds a special esteem in Canadian theatre, as being some of the finest work ever penned by its most prolific and… keep reading
Review: Chelsea Hotel at The Firehall Arts Centre
Chelsea Hotel is a brilliantly conceived, beautifully designed, and masterfully performed piece of theatre that brings new life and insight to Leonard Cohen’s profound body… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Amanda Green.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Review: The Idiot by Neworld Theatre in Partnership with Vancouver Moving Theatre
In the first act of The Idiot, one of the characters issues a statement to the effect of, “there are two types of people in… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Kat Single-Dain.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Review: Danny and the Deep Blue Sea at Pacific Theatre
Danny and the Deep Blue Sea is a thrill ride of play. In 80 intermission-less minutes, Director Jason Goode and his cast take the audience… keep reading
Waiting for Godot Held Over Until January 28 – Enter to Win Closing Night Tickets
Despite the snow and the cold that has Vancouver shivering in their boots (if Twitter is to be believed) the LMPR offices are a happy,… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Simon Webb.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
A Tale of Two Posters
It is always fascinating to work on national touring productions, especially when each city is able to exercise their own distinct imagination, infusing the main… keep reading
The Reviews are in… Critics Rave!
Laura Murray Public Relations has been hard at work for many months raising awareness for Blackbird Theatre’s anticipated production of Waiting for Godot. You might… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Julie-anne Saroyan.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Peeling Back the Curtain: Five Ways to Take Audiences Behind-the-Scenes
Arts organizations are a bit like icebergs: the part that the world sees – performances, exhibitions, installations – is just the tip, with a massive… keep reading
Review: A Christmas Carol at Pacific Theatre
Pacific Theatre’s A Christmas Carol is a thoroughly heartwarming, touching, and endlessly inventive staging of Charles Dickens’ allegorical classic. Putting storytelling first, this one-man production… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Anosh Irani.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Former Prime Minister Hosts Impromptu Cello Concert at 35,000 Feet
Sometimes wonderful, unlikely, and very surprising things happen in this world. Take, for instance, this Air Canada flight report from early last week: Impromptu… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Stephen White.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Marketing the Minutiae: Can You Ever Pay Too Much Attention to Detail in Advertising?
When people think of public relations and marketing, we like to think the images immediately conjured are straight out of Mad Men: sophisticated, tailored suits… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Rob Kitsos.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Guest Post: Dance Seen – Berlin 2011
We’re delighted to be sharing LMPR’s first guest-post written by Stephen White, Producer of Dance Victoria. Stephen never intended to have a career in… keep reading
A Uniquely Vancouver AGM and Exciting New Artistic Venture
Last night, Theatre Replacement Artistic Producer James Long played emcee to a rare and remarkable gathering of artists and theatre supporters that one would be… keep reading
Review: Re:Union at Pacific Theatre
Last week Pacific Theatre opened Re:Union, a co-production with Horseshoes & Hand Grenades Theatre and the debut play from its Artistic Director, Sean Devine. It… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Mirjana Galovich.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Ted Striphas & the Algorithmization of Culture
Last week CBC Spark interviewed Ted Striphas, an associate professor in the Department of Communication & Culture at Indiana University, about algorithmic culture. The conversation… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Eric Morin.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
Blackbird Theatre and LMPR Throw Down the Gauntlet
The process of mounting Waiting for Godot has brought to light the scourge that is waiting– and we will no longer stand for it. Blackbird… keep reading
The Making of Svengali: Episode Two
The second video in the ‘Making of Svengali” series, presented by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, has just been released, highlighting the evolutionary process of choreographer… keep reading
Review: The National Ballet of Canada at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre
It feels appropriate to heap superlatives on the National Ballet of Canada (NBOC) – the striking company took to the stage, at the Queen Elizabeth… keep reading
Review: True Love Lies at The Cultch
Playwright Brad Fraser’s 2009 work, True Love Lies, received its Vancouver premiere at The Cultch last night. Characteristic of Fraser’s past plays, the dialogue is… keep reading
Unscripted. Unstaged. Kathleen Bourchier.
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian… keep reading
John Alleyne Choreographs for Dance Theatre of Harlem
Our wonderful client, Choreographer John Alleyne, spent a portion of the summer working with the incredibly talented artists at Dance Theatre of Harlem. At… keep reading
Designing for Godot
As this article is typed, reams of pristine, white paper are rolling through a press in an East Vancouver warehouse. Once the ink is dry,… keep reading
The Impressive Journey of Ballerina Mary Helen Bowers
I continue to watch, with admiration, the impressive journey of Mary Helen Bowers – the creator of Ballet Beautiful and dance instructor/trainer for Natalie Portman’s… keep reading
A First Glimpse at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s New Creation
We’re in the early days of an exciting marketing campaign promoting the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s newest work, Svengali. The ballet represents a return to… keep reading
The Top 10 Reasons to Support the Arts
In a time when government funding is ebbing and public dialogue occurring around how tax dollars should be utilized, it is important that those of… keep reading
On the Discounting of Tickets (Part Three)
In previous posts we discussed the use of ‘Pay What You Can’ and ‘Under 30‘ ticketing strategies to attract new audiences to theatre performances. This… keep reading
Review & Musings: Decemberists at Stanley Park & How We Describe a Band’s Sound
Last night I headed to Stanley Park to enjoy one of my favourite Vancouver summer pastimes- listening to a concert in the open air at… keep reading
On the Discounting of Tickets (Part Two)
In a previous post, we discussed the use of ‘Pay What You Can’ ticketing strategies to attract new audiences to theatre performances. This post continues… keep reading
On the Discounting of Tickets (Part One)
The Guardian posted an article today, discussing the (relatively old) practice of offering ‘Pay What You Can’ tickets, which also included one company discussing the… keep reading
LMPR Guest Speakers at SFU Communications Department
Following our successful wrap of the inaugural Indian Summer Festival media relations campaign in July, LMPR Principal Laura Murray and Marketing Director Brian Paterson were… keep reading
Congratulations Hugh Murray
The team at Laura Murray Public Relations want to send out a big congratulations to Hugh Murray for his enormously successful work on Harry Potter… keep reading
Review: Die Roten Punkte’s Kunst Rock at The Cultch
Last night we had the opportunity to be on hand at the opening of Kunst Rock (Art Rock) at the Cultch. The production marks the… keep reading
Where Does Meaning Lie: A Look at Two Authors’ Work
Clayton Lord, who writes an Arts Journal blog entitled New Beans, recently published a post asking “in whose hands does meaning live?” In the article,… keep reading
Working with Man Booker-winning Author Yann Martel at Indian Summer
Working on the first annual Indian Summer festival has been an absolute delight for the Laura Murray Public Relations team. In addition to experiencing an… keep reading
Welcome to Creatively Speaking
Welcome to the Laura Murray Public Relations blog- Creatively Speaking. We’re going to use this space to share interesting articles, news on our company… keep reading