Comedy, children’s theatre, live music and more — it’s time again for the start of the Whistler Arts Council’s (WAC) annual Performance Series.

Though the entire lineup for 2009-’10 hasn’t yet been finalized, the shows that are confirmed will have people of all ages looking forward to the return of some favourite performers. And with a shorter season planned because of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, it’s even more important to come out and laugh, listen, dance and participate.

Several Performance Series shows are planned October through December, with the series set to resume in April after a break, said Traci Despatis, WAC’s event manager. Despite a shorter season there are some exciting things coming up, she said.

Kicking off the series on Oct. 3 at Millennium Place is the quirky, zany and hilarious Lorne Elliott. You never know quite what the Canadian comedian will do on stage, but components will definitely include laughter, storytelling and music.

Known for his universal appeal as a comedian, Elliott weaves stories about being human that often garner bigger laughs from the crowd with each sentence. Having started his stage career as a folk musician in the 1970s, Elliott also incorporates music and silly songs into his act.

His recognizable curly hairstyle has often been seen on Just for Laughs TV specials, and his CBC radio show, Madly off in all Directions, was on the air for a decade.

A multi-talented artist, Elliott is also an award-winning playwright who recently participated in the premier of his musical, Hillyard, in Newfoundland. In addition to writing screenplays, TV comedies and skits, he recently published a novella called The Fixer-Upper. For more info, visit www.lorne-elliott.com.

Despatis said a few shows are in the works for November and December and should be announced soon. After that, expect a full house on April 14 when New Brunswick blues powerhouse Matt Andersen returns for an East Coast/West Coast double bill with Vancouver Island’s Wil.

After just two local shows, Andersen is turning into one of Whistler’s favourite visiting acts. The passionate, engaging musician stole the show during a January 2008 concert, and returned that October to arguably one of the most enthusiastic crowds ever to fill Millennium Place.

Parents and young Whistlerites will be happy to know the Dufflebag Theatre troupe is set to return on May 1 for another inventive rendition of a classic fairytale. The successful Dufflebag formula includes audience participation, improvisation and lots of hilarious surprises.

Whistler audiences have enjoyed the Performance Series each year since 1987. Organizers at WAC aim to bring an eclectic mix of shows to town, such as dance, theatre, music and comedy by professional Canadian and international artists. Thanks to financial assistance from municipal, provincial and federal governments, ticket prices are kept at affordable levels. Visit www.whistlerartscouncil.com for more info.