VICTORIA, BC — They fought for equality, they stood for peace, and they sang for justice—Beyond the Beat: Music of Resistance and Change is now open at the Royal BC Museum, inviting visitors on a powerful journey through the songs, stories and artists that changed the course of history. On now through January 5, 2026.
“Music as a medium can inspire people to take action on human rights causes, engage in dialogue on current issues, and take on responsibility to promote equality, freedom, justice and rights for all,” says Jodi Giesbrecht, Vice President of Archives, Collections and Research at the Royal BC Museum. “There are so many recognizable artists in Beyond the Beat, including BC artists, and others that may be less familiar but equally exciting to discover.”
The exhibition features artifacts ranging from Neil Young’s and Alanis Morrisette’s harmonicas to stage outfits from Elton John, Tegan & Sara, and Public Enemy’s Chuck D, as well as a variety of concert posters and handbills, dynamic digital displays and interactive experiences. Beyond the Beat also features a selection of BC artists whose work explores themes ranging from labour and the origins of BC folk to west coast punk and BC Bhangra.
On display from the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, Beyond the Beat brings its compelling narrative to British Columbia.
“Music is so powerful and universal; it taps into an emotional place that can’t always be reached by facts and figures alone,” said curator from the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Julia Peristerakis. “Beyond the Beat: Music of Resistance and Change celebrates those moments where music made a difference, sparked conversations and supported actions for human rights. We show how artists can use the power of music to support a cause, express hope and anger, reclaim culture or create a connection, with the goal of leaving visitors inspired to be an upstander for human rights.”
While you’re here, make sure to also catch Music Month at IMAX® Victoria, featuring four iconic music-inspired films presented on the largest screen in British Columbia. The lineup includes A Complete Unknown, Becoming Led Zeppelin, Mama Mia! Here We Go Again, and One to One: John & Yoko. For showtimes and more information, visit imaxvictoria.com/movies.
Lastly, don’t miss the renowned musician and passionate activist John Lennon’s psychedelic Rolls Royce Phantom V in the Royal BC Museum lobby.
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About the Royal BC Museum: The Royal BC Museum explores the province’s human history and natural history, advances new knowledge and understanding of BC, and provides a dynamic forum for discussion and a place for reflection. The museum and archives celebrate culture and history, telling the stories of BC in ways that enlighten, stimulate and inspire. Located in Victoria on the territory of the lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) peoples, known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, we are a hub of community connections in BC—on-site, off-site and online—taking pride in our collective histories.
For tickets to IMAX® Victoria and the Royal BC Museum, including combo tickets for both attractions, visit: Tickets
Memberships are back! Pick yours up today: Membership
For information about visiting the Royal BC Museum, visit: Plan Your Visit
