Kristina Lao to open The ACT Arts Centre’s 2026/27 performance season

Acclaimed artist, performer, songwriter and actor Kristina Lao will open the 2026/27 performance season at The ACT Arts Centre in Maple Ridge with unreleased music from her forthcoming EP. Her set will blend storytelling, layered harmonies and atmospheric melodies.

Born in Hong Kong, Lao said she brings a cross-cultural perspective to her music and hopes the performance will offer audiences a new perspective. Her friendship with Artist-in-Residence Alex Neff and visits to local parks, neighbourhoods, farmers markets and businesses helped inspire elements of the show, which will highlight Maple Ridge’s landscapes, community connections and natural setting.

The performance will include a “lo-fi interactivity” component of paper-based tactile activities intended to involve audience members in the music’s themes and allow for personal reflection. Arts, culture and events manager Russ Brummer said The ACT was pleased to have Lao open both its season and Musical Spotlight Series.

Lao has appeared in more than 300 shows in 30 cities across Asia, Europe and North America. Drawing on folk-pop and British indie influences, she has also had work featured in film and television; her latest releases are Run and Choices.

The show begins at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, at The ACT Arts Centre, 11944 Haney Place, Maple Ridge. Single tickets cost $39.90 plus fees and are available at MapleRidge.ca/ Performances, by phone at 604-476-2787, or in person at The ACT from noon to 5 p.m. daily.