The Accidental Canadian
The Accidental Canadian
Attention all Adventurers (whether armchair adventurers or otherwise) — we have a wonderful evening planned for you with celebrated author and paddler James Raffan. This two-hour musical storytelling evening is just what you need.
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Fort Langley
Arctic Adventurer, Storyteller, Canoeist and Bestselling Author, James Raffan entertains with a light-hearted yet thought-provoking presentation called "The Accidental Canadian".
The show title was derived from the simple toss of a coin by his British parents when they were indecisive about which country they would immigrate to after WWII - S. Africa or Canada. James (and his 3 sisters) suddenly became 'Accidental Canadians'.
Dr. James Raffan is a cultural geographer and writer who has produced more than 20 books including many best sellers. He has been recognized with nominations and awards including the Queen's Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals and Canada's Meritorious Service Medal for his foundational work in bringing the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough Ontario onto the national stage.
“The Accidental Canadian” is filled with flashy visuals, whimsical stories, and original songs performed live. It's a two-hour presentation providing laughter, joy, tears and an unprecedented sense of Canadian pride.
His message to Canadians: “stand strong and together to protect the wild places and the integrity of the people he bore witness to, through his lifetime of travel and scribing."
See below for tickets and details
Tickets also available in person at Western Canoe Kayak and at the door.
Saturday, March 28, 2026 | Doors: 6:45pm, Show: 7:00pm
Chief Sepass Theatre @ Langley Fine Arts School
9096 Trattle Street, Langley Township, BC, Canada
Reviews
"This is not your run-of-the-mill presentation. Family lore, tales of adventure, and original music created a love letter to Canada and a meaningful reflection on culture, education, and the importance of going outside. Entertaining and thoughtful, Raffan delivers - a tour de force"
Biologist Judith Kennedy, Ottawa ON
"The audience ate it up like a polar bear would a nonchalant seal. The laughs were genuine when he spun a tale, the smiles were ear-to-ear while he strummed his guitar and caroled a tune and tears truly ran down faces - including his own (and mine) --when he pleaded for Canadians to stand strong and together to protect the wild landscape and the integrity of the people he bore witness of through his lifetime of travel and scribing."
Explore Magazine Blogger, Kevin Callan, Amherstview, ONT
"James Raffan - the beloved storyteller, celebrated explorer, and inspirational educator - is on the road again with a powerful new performance, and his timing is perfect. Canadians are thirsty for opportunities to learn more about our big, beautiful nation, to dip deeper into the lives of our northern people, and to enthusiastically embrace what it is to be Canadian. Stories of fifty years of northern travel come to life with multi-media surround of spectacular photos, powerful video clips and wonderful live music. Most of all it is the songs, written and performed by Raffan, that create an emotional wow for the audience. His lyrics provoke everything from anger and shame, to love and laughter, and ultimately intense pride and appreciation for this place we call Canada. Standing ovations, misty eyes and full hearts for all who attend."
Liz Huff, Storyfest Series Founder, Kingston ON