centrestageDOWNTOWN ST. CATHARINES FUNTANYATAGAQ FOR THE WHOLETAKES ON FAMILYNanook of Lightwire Theatre Elephant and Piggiethe North Carousel PlayersTHE Immortal ChiFILMHOUSENEW FEATURESdocumentaries,classics, andfamily filmsTransCanadaHighwaymenFour iconic frontmenof Barenaked LadiesSloan, Odds, andThe Pursuit ofHappiness CENTRESTAGE 1
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MUSICAL EVENT SOLUTIONS presentsSaturday, March 25, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre Legends of Motown is a 14-piece cast of singers and musicians performinglive look-a-like/sound-a-like tributes to The Supremes, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, The Jackson 5, Martha and the Vandellas and more and features all your favourite songs of the Motown era.With dazzling choreography, authentic costumes, stunning vocal performances and a fabulouslive band, this high-energy show with the most timeless music of our lives is not to be missed! Tickets on sale now!!!Call 905.688.0722 CENTRESTAGE 3
centrestage table of contents 6 TESTIMONIALS 7 CALENDAR 9 HEAR! HERE! NIAGARA MUSIC SERIES 11 HOT TICKET MEMBERSHIP PERKS 12 THE FILM HOUSE 15 JAZZ & FUNK MUSIC SERIES 16 MOUSE ON THE KEYS 18 LARRY CARLTON 20 SWINGIN’ WITH OSCAR* 22 LIGHTWIRE THEATER: MOON MOUSE 24 ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE 26 IMMORTAL CHI 31 ROOTS & BOOTS MUSIC SERIES 32 TERRI CLARK 34 TERRA LIGHTFOOT WITH DONOVAN WOODS* 36 CRITELLI’S CELTIC SERIES 38 KAHA:WI DANCE THEATRE – THE HONOURING* 40 GEORDIE PRODUCTIONS – JABBER* 42 CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE – JIMI HENDRIX: ARE YOU EXPERIENCED 44 TRANSCANADA HIGHWAYMEN – BERG, MURPHY, NORTHEY, PAGE 46 CAROUSEL PLAYERS: GIRLS, BOYS, AND OTHER MYTHOLOGICAL CREATURES 48 TANYA TAGAQ: NANOOK OF THE NORTH 50 SPRING AND SUMMER FESTIVALS *MEMBERS BFF – HOT TICKET members are invited to Bring a Friend for FREE! EDITORS: Annie Wilson, Michael Chess DESIGNER: Lisa Mancini ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Kayley Corupe [email protected] Spring Edition - February 2017 @ FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, 20174 CENTRESTAGE
BOX OFFICEORDER YOUR TICKETS BOX OFFICE COORDINATESOnline 24/7 - FirstOntarioPAC.ca FirstOntario Performing Arts CentreIn Person FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre Box Office 250 St. Paul Street, Downtown St. CatharinesBy Email [email protected] Niagara Region, ON, L2R 3M2By Phone 905-688-0722TTY 905-688-4TTY (4889) Toll Free 1-855-515-0722 BOX OFFICE HOURSGET SOCIAL #FirstOntPAC Monday to Friday, 10AM to 6PM Saturday, 10AM to 2PM Facebook.com/FirstOntPAC Summer and holiday hours may vary. Twitter.com/FirstOntPAC Instagram.com/FirstOntPAC Bit.ly/FirstOntPAC_YouTubePARKING Church Street James Street Carlisle Street Centre Street Bond Street King Street AcademeyOn-site parking is not available at the FirstOntario Garden BusPerforming Arts Centre; however, there are more Terminalthan 1,000 spots available in nearby parking garages, Parksurface lots and on city streets within a five-minute St. Paul Streetwalk to the FirstOntario PAC.We recommend the multi-level covered Garden Park / Queen Street Head StreetCarlisle Street Garage with 595 spaces and 26 accessiblespaces. Please visit StCatharines.ca/Parking for a complete William Street Marilyn I. Walker School Race Race Streetlist of parking locations. Drop-off points are available in front Ontario St. Paul Streetof the Box Office Entrance on St. Paul Street as well as the Geneva StreetMcGuire Streetfront doors closest to Partridge Hall along Carlisle Street. Street MeCriedniatnreWe are also conveniently located kitty-corner from Westchester Crescent Highway 406 Bus TerminalSt. Catharines main bus terminal making us very accessiblevia public transit. Special event parking is $5 when events McGuire Streetare happening at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centreor Meridian Centre. Payment is by cash only and is paid onentrance to the garage / parking lots. L - LOT / G - GARAGEPAC STAFF LINDA HILKO RENTAL CONTRACT SUPERVISOR CORA SPERRY CLIENT SERVICES SUPERVISORSTEVE SOLSKI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BILL MERWIN MAINTENANCE & SECURITY COORDINATORJANIE GRAND ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT CARLOS ROBAYO ADMINISTRATIVE SUPERVISORSARA PALMIERI PROGRAMMING & MARKETING MANAGER LEONA MCDONALD ADMINISTRATIVE CLERKMICHAEL CHESS MARKETING SUPERVISOR TANYA WALSH ADMINISTRATIVE CLERKANNIE WILSON PROGRAM SUPERVISOR MARIOLA HILL BOX OFFICE CLERKKAYLEY CORUPE SALES & SPONSORSHIP COORDINATORSTÉPHANIE FILIPPI AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR BOX OFFICE LEADS:LISA MANCINI MARKETING & DESIGN COORDINATOR KRISTA ASHFORD, LEYA POULOUSKIJORDY YACK COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR BOX OFFICE AGENTS:DAVID RAPELJE OPERATIONS MANAGER BECKY CAMPBELL, PATRICIA COMFORT, SARAH FRASER, JENNA LEASK,KATHLEEN ROSS OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATOR SARAH MARKS, DANA MORIN, TINA MOUSLEY, SIOBHAN RODRIGUEROB ROBBINS SENIOR TECHNICAL SUPERVISORKEN GARRETT TECHNICAL SUPERVISOR FRONT OF HOUSE LEADS:ROBERT NICHOLLS TECHNICAL SUPERVISOR KATH DAVIES, THELMA FORRESTER, JULIA HILL,JENNIE DIMARCO OPERATIONS SERVICES COORDINATOR ROSEMARIE HUBER, KAITLIN RACE, SEAN RINTOULJENNIFER HUNT-CARBONARA OPERATIONS SERVICES COORDINATOR CENTRESTAGE 5
What people2are saying about the FirstOntario PAC ‘‘I love the FirstOntario PAC as it is providing some of the best entertainment and experiences for audiences in St. Catharines/Niagara. Wonderful staff and volunteers welcoming YOU everytime you step in our doors. What a boon for downtown, too! Elaine Smithies: Retired Client Services Supervisor It is a safe space that provides a multitude of communities with a platform to express our many complex and interwoven identities. Iain Lidstone: Member of Twitches & Itches Theatre‘‘ WJRmueulegineilotoitvnDyeuhatnnahsdnet:aPolACsooCoff-secbhrre.oecwaatusostreh+eittsWtErihhehsxsaeeeoatctwoNwluouftosiitvnavrhteleigedhtDatewechrslioararerestelscRhPdstfeoeAtawrcgoNChiilfaoiibttatynShegtthceah. aaCarwtausauotsathnerorailttridoetsisnfwiceftsheoshaerama.nNwtmdiSoatughtran.lerdCiaNt-aycaiatrlagtahsansarcsdraoifmnaale-cssioliatnyd ‘‘(PPehteortoShCerae:dCito: -DcraenatBorro+wAnJP)ruetlitiseetrticSDhDueniarn:e:cAEtroxterisctuictiDveirDecirteocr,toTrD, TNDiaNgaiargaaJraazJzaFzezsFteivsatlival6 CENTRESTAGE
Coming SoonEssential Collective TheatreTERRA LIGHTFOOT Niagara Symphony Orchestra WITH DONOVAN WOODS THE DRAWER BOY MW6 - POPS 4 FRI 24 MAR • THE MESSIAH: FRI 24 FEB - FRI 3 MAR • TOO HOT TO HANDEL! Gallery Players SHAUN MAJUMDER SAT 15 APR CHARLIE CHAPLIN:2017SAT25FEB• THREE RARE COMEDIES Classic Albums LiveBrock University’s MIWSFPA SAT 25 MAR JIMI HENDRIXRADIUM GIRLS Are You ExperiencedFRI 3 MAR - SAT 11 MAR Musical Event Solutions TUE 18 APR •Chorus Niagara LEGENDS OF MOTOWN BERG, MURPHY,THE FARTHEST SHORE SAT 25 MAR NORTHEY & PAGESAT 4 MAR Kaha:wi Dance Theatre WED 19 APR •Hear! Here! Niagara Music Series THE HONOURING GERRY DEE LIVETHE MARK LALAMA TRIO FRI 31 MAR • FRI 21 APRwith Kevin Fox & Mel Monaco ELEPHANT & PIGGIE'S Carousel PlayersSUN 5 MAR • We Are In A Play! BOYS, GIRLS, AND OTHERMOUSE ON THE KEYS SAT 1 APR • MYTHOLOGICAL CREATURESTUE 7 MAR • Brock University’s Viva Voce! Series SAT 22 APR •LARRY CARLTON CHOIRS FINALE FRANK D’ANGELO & HIS 15-PIECE BANDWED 8 MAR • SAT 1 APRLightwire Theater Hear! Here! Niagara Music Series SAT 22 APRMOON MOUSE THE MARK LALAMA TRIO IMMORTAL CHIA Space Odyssey with Johnny Johnson + Marc Jordan A Warrior's Quest for BalanceTHU 9 MAR • & Elton Lammie TUE 25 APR • SUN 2 APR •Brock University’s Encore! Series JUST FOR LAUGHS ROAD SHOW IN THE SOIL SUN 2 APR • ARTS FESTIVALANAGNOSON & KINTON,PIANO DUO Choralis Camerata FRI 28 - SUN 30 APRFRI 10 MAR BRAHMS REQUIEM Chorus NiagaraRémi Bolduc Jazz Ensemble SUN 2 APR PHANTOM OF THE OPERASWINGIN’ WITH OSCAR Brock University’s MIWSFPA WED 3 MAY THE UNIVERSITYSAT 11 MAR • WIND ENSEMBLE TANYA TAGAQ TUE 4 APRRHYTHM OF THE DANCE Nanook of the North THU 4 MAY •SAT 18 MAR •Niagara Symphony Orchestra Geordie Productions Congregation B'Nai IsraelMW5 - STRING THEORY JABBER THE KLEZKONNECTIONSAT 18 MAR - SUN 19 MAR WED 5 APR • SUN 7 MAYTERRI CLARK Niagara Symphony Orchestra Niagara Symphony Orchestrawith Jessica Mitchell FAM3 – DIG IT! MW7 – ARISE!THU 23 MAR • SAT 8 APR - SUN 9 APR SUN 21 MAYHOT TICKETS • MUSIC • DANCE • THEATRE • FAMILY • COMCEENTDRESYTAGE 7
2017 SEASONJune 21 - July 7July 12 - July 28 FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre DONNA AKREY ALSO ALSO call 905-688-0722 local Curated by Marcie Bronson 1-855-515-0722 toll free February 11 to April 30 HOT TALK: Thursday, March 2, 7 pm visit 250 St Paul Street, St. Catharines 109 St. Paul Crescent, St. Catharines, ON brocku.ca/rodmanhall website www.fosterfestival.com Donna Akrey, Middle Ground, 2016, mirror, wood, insulation foam, casters.8ACuEgNTuRsEStTA2G-E August 18
HEAR! HERE!NIAGARA MUSIC SERIESHOSTED BY THE MARK LALAMA TRIO An organic series of songs and stories featuring international and local artists and our acclaimed hosts MARK LALAMA, RICH MOORE and DAVIDE DIRENZO Sundays at 4PM in the intimate Robertson Theatre. WITH SPECIAL GUESTS... special guest 5KEVIN FOX MAR MARC JORDAN & MEL MONACO added to final show! JOHNNY JOHNSON 2APR + MARC JORDAN & ELTON LAMMIE SERIES SPONSORSPHOTO BY NINO ARDIZZI-DIZZIFOTO CENTRESTAGE 9
Like a greatperformancewise investingis built onexperienceand talent.Our objective and highly experienced advisorsprovide advice usually reserved only forwealthy investors. And our commitment toinvesting in our local communities means we’renot just about money we are about your moneydoing better.Talk to us first about a better way of investingat FirstOntarioInvestments.com Carolyn Humby, CFP, FMA, Investment Advisor T: 1-800-616-8878 Ext. 5020 | O: 905-988-3562 | E: [email protected] CENTRESTAGE Call us at 1-800-616-8878 or visit FirstOntario.com
Join the PAC!Benefits of a HOT TICKET membership Hello! I'm Bernice Pacard,and I'm a HOT TICKET member!Check out just a few of my favourite member benefits!MEMORY COMFY NEW CHAIR! LANE! 15% discount10% discount at a local furniture store at a local record store 4 HOT TICKETS 93891930831801 0 to IMMORTAL CHI! 93810I saved $32 on my tickets SUSHI NIGHT! BURGERS WITH BILLY HOT TICKET member discounts on food for the whole family Deals at my STRONG grandson’s favouriteGRANDMA downtown spot 15% discount on vitamins Coolest lady at knitting club! My Grandma is the coolest! I get to bring a friend for free to She’s taking me and myloads of FirstOntario PAC shows! cousins to see MOON MOUSE! TOTALLY FEELING THE BENEFITSIt's not too late to join! Become a member today for only $100. Visit FirstOntarioPAC.ca for a full list of member benefits!
THE FILM HOUSEBECOME A FILM HOUSE MEMBERFor an annual fee of $25 Film House Members enjoy these benefits: • $7 entry to all films (2 tickets limit per membership) • 15% discount off concession products, excluding alcohol • Buy-one-get-one free tickets for premiere screenings of First-run features • VIP access to meet and greets, artist chats and receptions • Exchange tickets, as needed • Bi-weekly e-newsletter • Direct home mailing of your Film House calendar and the downtown Film & Dining Guide (coming soon!)‘‘The moving image is everywhere, but when cinema is great and at its most incredible, there are no other experiences between viewer and screen that even come close.\" - Stephen Remus Film Programming Group Member12 CENTRESTAGE
The Doc Spotlight What People Are Saying AboutThe popularity of documentaries continues to rise. In a the Film House!world that seems to become evermore complicated andchallenging to understand, the documentary offers a near “It’s been AMAZING having a Filmeffort-free opportunity to delve into some of the most House in downtown St. Catharines,intriguing social, political and human interest stories of bumping into friends in a brand newour time. Every Wednesday this March catch great docs 200 seat art house with cool films!”like Angry Inuk, an Inuit perspective on the seal hunt;Fire at Sea, a look behind the headlines at the tragedies - Geoff Farnsworth, Visual Artistbefalling migrants trying to escape persecution, war andpoverty across the Mediterranean Sea, a film lauded with “The Candy Store of Film!! Whatthe Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival and nominated a choice! About 25 different titlesfor an Oscar for Best Documentary; and Speed Sisters, a appear in the varied lineup eachfilm programmed in recognition of International Women’s month. Surprises galore.”Day about Palestine’s first all-female race cardriving team. - Don Alexander, TV pioneer and VideomakerFirst-run Features “Wow what a treat being able to walk downtown to see the type ofThe programming group assembled by the Niagara Artists challenging, award-winning, cuttingCentre and the FirstOntario PAC scour the cinema edge films we were missing inuniverse for great titles that won’t ever make it to the St. Catharines.”cine-malls. We work to bring films to St. Catharinesand Niagara that can typically only be seen in bigger - Sandy Middleton, Photographercentres and we bring them fresh and hot. This Marchand April look for the acclaimed Toni Erdmann, a German “Having The Film House downtownscrewball comedy about parenthood, mortality and family is a game changer. From quirkyrelationships; 20th Century Women, Mike Mills’ homage documentaries, to new dramas, toto moms and a companion to his lauded film, Beginners; the classics, I feel lucky every time IPaterson, Jim Jarmusch’s most recent film about finding see a movie downtown.”meaning in the mundane starring Adam Driver andGolshifteh Farahani; and A Man Called Ove, a Swedish - Linda Steer, Brock University Professorcomedy-drama about an old man who is the neighbourfrom hell. “The PAC’s Film House is a much needed remedy for the decline ofSEE THE MUSIC - Special Series cinema experience in this city. The Film House is cinematic viewing in itsOur series of concert, documentary and feature films purest form from the intriguing andfrom where the moving image and music meet continues interesting programming to the highthis spring every Saturday night at 9:30. We’re cranking quality projection and sound.”up the volume on David Chappelle’s Block Party (featuringThe Fugees, Mos Def, Kanye West); The Talking Heads - Geoff Brown, Bartenderlegendary Stop Making Sense; and The Beastie BoysMadison Square Garden career punctuation point, “Your choice of what movie to see inAwesome; I … Shot That. St. Catharines used to be restricted to the latest Hollywood action adventure fare. The Film House has classics: old classics, new classics, and not yet classics. And if you’re a member, the cost is $7! Seriously, $7!” - Sean Quaint, IT Systems Manager CENTRESTAGE 13
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&firstontario performing arts centre presentsSPONSORED BY Mouse on CENTRESTAGE 15 the Keys 7 MARCHLarry Carlton 8 MARCH Rémi BolducSwingin’ with Oscar 11 MARCH
mouse on the keys16 CENTRESTAGE
EXPERIMENTAL abundance of playful piano piecesJAZZ TRIO that feels both unpredictable andCREATES A erratic yet woven together as one.VIRTUAL TOKYO The song reminds me of an organic take on Aphex Twin’s “Bucephalus JAZZ & FUNK SERIES Bouncing Ball,” an electronica/IDMMouse On the Keys was formed in song that gives life to the sound of2006 by Akira Kawasaki (drums, a bouncing ping pong ball. Then justpiano) and Atsushi Kiyota (piano, past the halfway mark, “Afterglow”keyboard) out of the ashes of the transcends into an ambient, modernmath rock/post-rock outfit Nine Days soundscape that sends the listenerWonder. A year later, Daisuke Niitome to float over a version of their past(piano, keyboard) joined as a session self.musician, ultimately becoming a “Our purpose is to send what we feelpermanent fixture by 2008. The and think while living in this placeinstrumental trio blend jazz, neo- through the band,” explains Kawasakiclassical, post-rock, electronic and to Jame World in 2010. “So, notavant-garde music with inspiration only the music, but other elementsfrom Debussy, new wave, hardcore, like video projection, fashion orarchitecture, metaphysics and Detroit artwork are all connected to sometechno. While this might sound kind of image which symbolizes theoverwhelming and pretentious, the contemporary period of Tokyo.”result is far from it. - Jordy Yack FirstOntarioPAC.caMouse On the Keys create conceptualmusic with uncommon time Mouse On the Keyssignatures, contrasting melodicsynergies with a simple arrangement ROBERTSON THEATREof two keyboards and a drum kit; ALL TICKETS: $30 (Standing GA)the band is literally and figuratively Tue 7 Mar 8PMincomparable. we love the artsThe band’s latest is a six-songEP called Out of Body (available Explore 6,500 square feet of space in the newly restored heritage building and experiencein North America via Topshelf Niagara’s destination lifestyle boutique.Records). Musically, the EP is stark,yet maintains pieces of the familiar. The Post Office,18 Front St., N., Downtown Thorold ON L2V 1X4 905-397-7578 www.shannonpassero.comThe title comes from two places: the Co-winner of the prestigious 2016 Niagara Community Design Award.book and documentary TV programabout near-death experiences byTakashi Tachibana. And second,Kawasaki’s personal experiencesuffering an asymptomatic braininfarction. “We all have learned lotsof things through these 10 yearsand sometimes it is just tough andexhausting to do it. So I sometimesfeel like it’s our prayer when we playour music,” says Niitome.“Dark Light,” the EP’s third track,begins with a swell of synth, developswith a bass-heavy beat into what onemight think is going to be a dancetrack. Then the classical piano begins;it’s essentially a modern nocturne.The EP’s next song, “Afterglow” forcesthe listener to do a 180 and showcasesthe trio’s musicality. Boom-bapdrums, fills, drumstick tapping and an CENTRESTAGE 17
LARRY CARLTONJAZZ & FUNK SERIES The four-time Grammy winner and again except barely vary it. The spaceMusic fans looking to shake off the 19-time nominee first entered the is an opportunity for something toremnants of winter can do so to the scene with 1968's solo album, With happen.”sound of some of the finest guitar a Little Help from My Friends. He Carlton tours with a tight-knit band,licks played over the past 50 years. quickly established himself as a featuring Travis Carlton on bass, Gene top-notch session player with Steely Coye on drums and Mark Stephens onThis March, the FirstOntario Dan, including his stand-out guitar keyboards, generously allowing eachPerforming Arts Centre welcomes solo in “Kid Charlemagne.” of these talented musicians some timelegendary guitarist Larry Carlton, Since then he's played on more than in the spotlight.whose extensive body of work 100 hit records, working with a who's While drawing mainly from his soloincludes over 3,500 recordings! who of musical artists on some of catalogue, fans shouldn't be surprised their biggest hits; from Billy Joel to if they hear guitar work from someCarlton is better known as “Mr. Barbara Streisand, Michael Jackson familiar Steely Dan songs, as he's335,” a reference to his trademark to Joni Mitchell. been known to throw in the classic1969 Gibson ES-335 semi-acoustic These days, Carlton tours mainly \"Josie,” a song he often – jokingly –guitar as well as his long-standing with his own material, venturing claims he hates.recording studio. across several genres, from blues to Niagara is in for a special treat and jazz to fusion. A true musical pioneer a unique opportunity to hear one ofEven if you’re not familiar with his and innovator, Carlton thrives on the the most accomplished and admirednickname or full name, you have freedom of live performances. guitarists in the world.undoubtedly heard him play! In an interview with online - Mike Zettel publication Music Radar, Carlton says NiagaraThisWeek.ca of his playing style that he treats spaces between guitar licks as \"an Larry Carlton opportunity\" for any number of things to happen. \"One, you can get PARTRIDGE HALL another idea. Two, somebody else REGULAR: $52 in the band might play something MEMBERS: $45 in that space that inspires you. Or somebody in the band plays Wed 8 Mar 7:30PM something that is so appropriate for what you just played. Or you are going to play what you just played18 CENTRESTAGE 37 SOLO ALBUMS 3,500 STUDIO SESSIONS
WHILE NOTEVERYONEKNOWSHIS NAME,VIRTUALLYEVERYONEHAS HEARDHIM PLAY. CENTRESTAGE 19
RÉMI BOLDUC JAZZ ENSEMBLE SWINGIN’WITHoSCARTAUREY FRASER DAVIDBUTLER HOLLINS LAING PIANO BASS DRUMSThe music ofOscar Peterson20 CENTRESTAGE
JAZZ & FUNK SERIES Alto saxophonist Rémi Bolduc and Rémi Bolduc Jazz EnsembleOscar Peterson is perhaps the most his Jazz Ensemble pay homage Swinging’ with Oscarfamous of Canadian jazz musicians. to Peterson in their concert atHis mellifluous manner of capering the FirstOntario Performing Arts CAIRNS RECITAL HALLacross the keyboards made him a Centre. “I wanted to explore Oscar's REGULAR: $40unique voice in jazz and distinctly music through his compositions,” MEMBERS: $34different from his predecessors and Bolduc says. “He is less known as a Sat 11 Mar 7:30PMcontemporaries such as Art Tatum. composer. Many think of him as a HOT TICKET MEMBERSPeterson became world renowned player. I wanted to highlight another BRING FRIENDS FOR FREE!for his performances as part aspect of his music.”of Norman Granz’s “Jazz at the Bolduc, himself a formidable CFUHNKO&PJSAZNZ i’NSTHOEUCITLYPhilharmonic” project, which soloist with a growing international featuring JOEL PARiSENconsisted of extensive concert reputation, has arranged Peterson’stouring as well as record releases. music for a quartet that includes FRIDAY, JULY 28.2017 - 7:30 pmThe JATP included a changing Taurey Butler on piano, Dave Laing EARLY BiRD Tickets: $39+HSTparade of jazz luminaries, many on drums, and Fraser Hollins on bass.of whom Peterson played with Among the tunes Bolduc has chosen Available through the PAC orbeginning at a JATP concert at are “Noreen’s Nocturne,” which theCarnegie Hall that introduced him to Peterson Trio recorded live at the VISIT NIAGARAJAZZFESTIVAL.COMAmerican jazz fans in 1949. He then Stratford Shakespeare Festival in 1956.gained international recognition on Also included in the concert will be @jazzniagaraseveral JATP European tours in the “Place St. Henri” from “Canadianaearly 1950s. Suite,” recorded by Peterson inThe prolific Peterson released about 1964. “The Canadiana Suite is about200 recordings during his 60-year Peterson’s home, Canada,” Bolduccareer, many of them on Granz’s own explains. “It is an essential piece ofClef, Verve, and Pablo labels. For Canadian culture...and one of hisGranz recordings he accompanied strongest musical statements. Thesuch artists as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie album expresses his affection andHolliday, Louis Armstrong, and pride for the city where he was born,many others. On Verve he recorded Montreal.”numerous LPs with his highly Bolduc teaches in the Shulichregarded trio, at first with guitar, School of Music at McGill Universitylater Ed Thigpen on drums, and of in Montreal, the same city wherecourse Ray Brown on bass. Peterson was born, grew up, andAlthough known primarily as began playing. Bolduc has alreadya player, Peterson was also an recorded an award-winning tributeunderrated singer, with a vocal grain to Charlie Parker, one of his biggestthat sounded a bit like Nat “King” influences, and now, fittingly, he isCole. And he was also a composer doing the same for Oscar Peterson.– perhaps most famously for his - Barry Keith Grant“Canadiana Suite.” BrockU.ca Your Independent Community Health Food Store! Clean Vitamins, Herbs & Body Care Organic Grocery, Dairy & Produce Friendly, Certified Staff to Help You!191 Welland Ave (Geneva Square) • St Catharines • 905.685.8848 • thepeanutmill.com CENTRESTAGE 21
Moa ospance Mouse odyssey LIGHTWIRE THEATER22 CENTRESTAGE
BIG FAMILY FUN FAMILY FUN Knowing they were on to something, they produced a From the dark comes light. And for the past 10 years, 10-minute clip and started shopping it around. The Detroit Lightwire Theater has proven the adage true. Music Hall commissioned a 60-minute live show, after With its topical and eye-catching performances using which they wowed global television audiences as semi- lighted puppetry in dark theatres, the New Orleans- finalists on America’s Got Talent Lightwire Theater has based troupe tells stories in a way that human characters and bright stage lights can’t. ‘‘been lighting up stages around the world ever since. Lightwire came on stage “We take (audiences) on a journey. It’s a visual feast. tonight and blew everyone away...\" We try to capture them and then there’s this story underneath,” explains Eleanor Carney, Lightwire Theater - E! ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION‘‘co-founder and director. It will continue its streak of sparking imaginations when ...An eye-popping display of its production of Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey hits the storytelling that's like nothing else Partridge Hall stage on Thursday, March 9 at 6:30 p.m. you've ever seen.\" Carney describes it as a story “celebrating difference.” - BROADWAYWORLD.COM Moon Mouse is the tale of a mouse named Marvin. His is the classic story of the nerd who crushes on the The magic of Lightwire Theater comes from using the unique technology of electroluminescent wire (EL wire), ‘‘cheerleaders but gets picked on by jocks at school. combined with music and dance to create those visual Their captivating feasts that strive for both flash and substance. combination of dance, puppetry and lighting earned Lightwire a The proverbial light went off for Carney’s husband and standing ovation.\" Lightwire co-founder, Ian, while performing on Broadway 10 years ago. Ian was dancing in Twyla Tharp’s Movin’ - TV GUIDE Out when he and fellow performer, Corbin Popp, started tinkering with EL wire and all the ways it could bring bold Lightwire Theater characters to life. They constructed creatures out of the Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey material, turned off the overhead lights and began telling PARTRIDGE HALL universal stories using movement rather than dialogue. REGULAR: $25 | MEMBER: $20 “It was neat because you erase the dancer,” Carney, Thu 9 Mar 6:30PM also a dancer, explained. “You turn out the lights and it’s ‘Wow, that’s really cool.’ You’re not seen, it’s just the character and the lights.”all access YOUR TICKET NIAGTOARA ARTS HERITAGE FESTIVALS // Find your next seat at cNiagara.ca CENTRESTAGE 23
ELEPHANT& PIGGIE'S WE ARE IN A PLAY! Get ready for a musical experience ripped from the pages of your favourite books. You'll be doing the \"Flippy Floppy Floory\" dance all night long!24 CENTRESTAGE
Marvin chooses to rise above being bullied by heading Elephant & Piggie'sto the moon in search of what every mouse wants: We Are In A Playcheese. While there, he meets Moon Girl, who defiesconventional beauty but affirms for Marvin there’s more PARTRIDGE HALLto someone than meets the eye. Marvin returns to Earth REGULAR: $25with his haul of cheese, earning acceptance from those MEMBERS: $20who tormented him, but he realizes he doesn’t want Sat 1 Apr 1PM + 4PMtheir approval after all.“The story is very clear,” Carney said. “It’s probably our 3.5” x 2.5” | Maximum Font Size: 30 ptfavourite show, probably because it’s the newest. We’vehad a lot of positive response to it. Teachers say it gives You work hard for your money.them a platform to start discussing these issues…It’s Make it work hard for you.wrapped up in something entertaining. It’s not shoveddown people’s throats.” Nicolle A LalondeThe production is one of four family-friendlyperformances coming to the FirstOntario PAC in early Financial Advisorspring. Also on deck are Elephant and Piggie’s We Are Ina Play! (Partridge Hall, April 1); local favourites Carousel .Players’ Boys, Girls, and Other Mythological Creatures(Robertson Theatre, April 22); and Immortal Chi: A 10 Hwy 20 EastWarrior’s Quest for Balance (Partridge Hall, April 25). Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0In Elephant and Piggie’s We Are In a Play, the Children’s 905-892-9930Theatre Company makes Mo Willems’ popular storybookcharacters jump off the page and into a musical [email protected] to entertain young theatregoers.Carousel Players bring new material to the stage in an www.edwardjones.comadventure based on a young boy’s imagination. Boys, Member – Canadian Investor Protection FundGirls, and Other Mythological Creatures will also beperformed as a sensory-friendly performance, which Mon to Wed 11am-11pm Thurs to Sat 11am-12pm Sun 12-11pmmeans the house lights will be up and space will bemade for the audience to dance and sing along with 905-680-8080 313 MERRITT ST ST. CATHARINESthe actors on stage. eat in or take out- we deliverImmortal Chi is the stunning martial arts spectacle by WWW.PIZZAJERRYS.COMMultimedia-Novalux, the company founded by ErickVilleneuve, who has collaborated with Cirque du Soleil 3 Race Street, St. Catharines, ONand Peter Gabriel. The performance, which has been Mon-Thu: 9am-5pm: Fri-Sat: 9am-7pm: Sunday: 11am-3pmtouring the world since 2013, features 15 Kung Fuartists and nine musicians on “a high-tech stage that Fully Licensed • Events • Cateringpushes the boundaries of technology.” Pre Show Menu SpecialsThis adrenaline-packed Chinese spectacle fuses stunts,traditional weaponry, martial arts and jaw-droppingacrobatics, accompanied by an all-female percussionensemble. It tells the heartfelt story of a martial artsmaster who loses his chi and finds it again, using onlymusic and movement to convey its message to theaudience.Though every production comes with a differentstoryline, they all succeed at showing the potential ofboundless imagination, along with something else.“With all the things, TV, movies, tweeting, blogging,Instagram and technology, our MO is to get kids excitedabout coming to theatre,” Carney said.- Tiffany MayerEatingNiagara.com CENTRESTAGE 25
Immortal ChiA WARRIOR’S QUEST‘‘FOR BALANCE Visually sumptuous… A hypnotic cornucopia of contemporary culture and timeless tradition - UK THEATRE NETWORKFAMILY FUN Audiences can expect to see Immortal ChiFrom the producer of Shaolin Warriors, adrenalin-packed stunts, traditional A Warrior’s Quest for BalanceImmortal Chi features a spectacular weaponry, incredible feats ofnew fusion of Chinese martial arts and human endurance, innovative video PARTRIDGE HALLjaw-dropping acrobatics, accompanied projections and stunning costumes. REGULAR: $55by an all-female percussion ensemble. In short, Immortal Chi is a feast for MEMBER: $47Immortal Chi weaves a compelling the senses that brings the ancient CHILDREN (13 + UNDER): $25narrative around a Tai-Chi master and traditions and rich theatrical historyhis ultimate challenge to regain his of China to life with a rousing 21st- Tue 25 Apr 7:30PMinner energy and life force. century twist.26 CENTRESTAGE
A stage rammed full of adrenalin-packed stunts... If you want these elements wrapped around a story that brings a wider range of‘‘Chinese culture to the stage, this is without a doubt the show for you. - MARTIAL ARTS ILLUSTRATED CENTRESTAGE 27
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FOOD DRINK FRIENDS ARE JUST A FEW STEPS AWAYMahtay Cafe DINE241 St Paul Street EXplorE905.685.4040 SHOPLet us focus on organizing your finances, so you can focus on living your life! LIVE WORK Aurora Tancock CFP, FLMI, AIAA, PLAY Welcome to Carmen Giordano Michael Allen30 1C1ENRTaRcEeSTSAt.G, ESt. Catharines ~ 905-685-5888 ~ [email protected] www.mydowntown.ca
FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE PRESENTSROOTS&BOOTS Music Series TERRI CLARK 23 MARCH TERRA LIGHTFOOT & DONOVAN WOODS 24 MARCHSPONSORED BY CENTRESTAGE 31
TERRI CLARKwith special guest Jessica mitchell from her new album, in part becauseGO FOR IT drummer Tim Horsley and fiddler it's not nearly ready yet. Amberly Rosen. ROOTS & BOOTS MUSIC Speaking to CentreStage, Clark Clark is still writing songs for the albumIf there's one piece of advice that describes the latter as \"sunshine on and prefers to have them recordedstands out from the time she was a stick.\" Rosen, she said, is one of before having her band perform themtrying to make it as a country artist it those performers, who's just happy live. Besides, she said, that's not whatwas “go for it.” to be nominated. \"She doesn't stop the fans will be expecting.Specifically, the word \"go\" referred to smiling. She's just so happy.\" SheClark packing her bags and heading to said when you're playing, there's an Clark said that she's \"very, verythe mecca of American country music, energy exchange between you and fortunate\" to have a large body ofNashville, Tennessee. the audience, but there's a similar work, and a large number of hits toThe 18-year-old from Alberta had just exchange between yFoRuEanEd tthreiablancdla. ss fordfirllaHawO7f5rTo- mtoT–9Ie0Cn-mKouiEnguhTtethmsahteosmwhbewecirtahsn!heiatssilyfinished high school. On the advice of \"If you love who you're on stage with, the audience knows and enjoys.fellow musicians, she made the leap you're going to be happy no matterand \"reached for the big brass ring.\" where you are,\" she said. \"As a fan, that's what I go to a show toIt wasn't a decision she made lightly. Relax. Breathe. Feel.Clark's stop in St. Catharines is part\"It was scary,\" she said, explaining hear,\" she said. \"I'm all about customershe didn't know anyone, didn't have approval. They want to hear what theya green card and was 2,300 miles of a small tour that touches down know and what they can sing along to.\"from home in a city with loads of in just a handful of performing artscompetition. centres across Ontario and comes -Mike Zettel\"I was scared but also very excited for between two significant points in her NiagaraThisWeek.cathe future,\" she said. career: last fall's highly successfulWith more than a dozen top-10 singles and intimate Back to My Roots soloand five Canadian Country Music acoustic tour, which featured Q&AsAssociation female vocalist of the year with the audience, and a new album Terri Clarkawards, it's safe to say the gamble set to be released next year.paid off. And while the rousing success with special guest Jessica Mitchellshe's enjoyed is far from guaranteed,Clark said she would counsel anyone When she takes to tUhensittaege yonour mindPRA,ERGbTURoLIdDAGyRE: $aH6nA5dLL spirit.with similar dreams to make that leap. March 23, with opening act Jessica MEMBERS: $55\"You've got to go for it in lifesometimes. You don't let fear take Mitchell, who hails from Londonover, and see what happens.\" Ontario, Clark will not be performing Thu 23 Mar 7:30PM The Place for Yoga and Pilates in Niagara GHeonttYleogYaog•aH•aPthilaatYeosg•aP•reVninaytaasl aYoFgloaw• YBoagbay•&AMeroiaml YYooggaaClark will be bringing her extensivecatalogue of number-one hits andher stellar band to the FirstOntarioPerforming Arts Centre on March 23.She'll also be bringing a band with CENTRESTAGE 33whom she has a close relationship,including bassist Clay Krasner andlead guitarist Chris Cottros and whohave played with her for six andseven years respectively. Joiningthem are relative newcomers,
Terra Lightfoot & Donovan Woods TWO RISING STARS, ONE NIGHT ONLYTerra Lightfoot ROOTS & BOOTS MUSIC As fan interest grew, so too didwith Donovan Woods After receiving ample critical acclaim, Lightfoot’s touring schedule in though less commercial success, 2016. Having rarely played outsidePARTRIDGE HALL with the collective Dinner Belles, of Canada previously, she and herREGULAR: $30 Hamilton's Terra Lightfoot was band went far and wide, playingMEMBERS: $25 suddenly thrust onto stages around more shows than ever in the U.S., the world over the last year and half Britain, and across Europe. “I’veFri 24 Mar 7:30PM as her sophomore LP, Every Time My learned about playing a show, to Mind Runs Wild, marked her arrival be quite honest,” says Lightfoot. “IHOT TICKET MEMBERS as a premier songwriter and voice in mean, until this record came out, IBRING FRIENDS FOR FREE! Canadian roots music. didn’t feel as confident on the stage. Likewise, 2016 was a breakout year You get to different levels in your34 CENTRESTAGE for Donovan Woods. After three well- progression as a musician and a received LPs, the Sarnia native signed performer and I’m definitely at a a major label deal and saw his fourth different level now than I was when album, Hard Settle, Ain't Troubled, the album came out.” enter the mainstream and earn a While Lightfoot has spent some nomination for the prestigious Polaris time in Nashville, Woods has Music Prize. That honour was followed made himself a fixture of that city, this year with a “lifelong dream” to be earning praise in a competitive nominated for the JUNO Songwriter market for his songwriting abilities. of the Year award alongside the likes A number of country music stars, of Gord Downie and Leonard Cohen. including Tim McGraw, have On March 24, music fans in Niagara recorded his songs, but now Woods will have a rare opportunity to see is making a name for himself as a these two rising stars of the Canadian songwriter and performer. music scene together in a one-time “In the country world, it used to be performance. pretty stringent that songwriters In writing and recording Every Time wrote and artists sang,” he says. My Mind Runs Wild, Lightfoot pushed “It just seemed like that part of her songwriting, guitar, and vocal the world is fading out a little bit, limits, crafting soulful tunes like “All so I think I caught the tail end of it Alone,” “Lily’s Fair,” and “Emerald and think I'm lucky because I don't Eyes,” which transcend the genres know if it's going to exist for much of folk, rock and roll, blues, and soul. longer.” As the Toronto Star pop music critic Woods fans are lucky, too, as Ben Rayner said when he featured melancholic folk songs like his Lightfoot in his Your New Favourite often carry more resonance when Thing column, the album is “a performed by the writer. simultaneously tough and tender Rooted in the folk tradition, and assertion of Lightfoot’s star-worthy sometime labelled “alt-country,” prowess as a singer, songwriter and Woods spins contemplative tales guitarist.” that are beautifully sung in his “My life is pretty boring, ultimately,” slightly raspy voice. He has grown a laughs Lightfoot while speaking with loyal live following as much for his CentreStage, “so I like to write about songs as his hilarious and charming my friends, or I’ve started writing about stories between songs. situations that may or may not have - Michael Raine happened. I love fiction, and so it’s a little CanadianMusicianRadio.com bit of both, but I’d say there is a lot of me in every song, just like every songwriter.”
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‘‘A heartfelt journey DANCER SANTEE cultural advisors within the SMITH HONOURS Onkwehon:wen community, including through war, death ONKWEHON:WEN Rick Hill, Mike Mitchell and Paulaand grief, but always WARRIORS IN THE Whitlow. The history is rather WAR OF 1812 complex. Smith said she chose to with dignified focus on the battles that happened ceremony.\" DANCE along the Niagara Escarpment, close Kaha:wi Dance Theatre presents to where her community is located - THE GLOBE AND MAIL The Honouring, a multi-disciplinary and close to St. Catharines. performance about the role of Onkwehon:wen warriors during The When the war started, originally there War of 1812, at The FirstOntario was a pact of neutrality among the Performing Arts Centre in on Onkwehon:wen, who decided not to March 31. partake in the war until numerous negotiations saw Smith’s ancestral “I'm always creating work for Kaha:wi community side with the British. that has strong Indigenous narratives She said, “they didn’t fight because and female counter narratives,” said they enjoyed warmongering, but Kaha:wi Artistic Director Santee because they were fighting for the Smith, who is of Onkwehon:wen land, trying to maintain their culture, decent from Six Nations. “They and trying to position themselves as are narratives that our population nation to nation with the hopes of don’t get to hear or people don't bettering their situation for the next necessarily learn in school as a part generation.” Yet, when they returned of the education system.” home after the war, their efforts were not acknowledged by the British and Based out of Toronto, Kaha:wi Dance their land reduced to the confines of Theatre was founded by Smith the Six Nations reservation. in 2001. Since its inception, the company has gone on to become an The Honouring will begin its Ontario internationally renowned success tour on March 14 in Brantford, with for its creative and innovative focus stops in Kingston, Dryden, Sudbury, on expressions that honour and Richmond Hill and St. Catharines. celebrates Indigenous cultures. Smith hopes that The Honouring will educate audiences on the motives The Honouring was originally and lives of the Onkwehon:wen and commissioned in the summer other First Nations warriors during of 2013 by the City of Toronto the War of 1812. “It's important Museum Services, when Canada was to tell because it's part of the celebrating the bicentennial of the Onkwehon:wen past,” she said. “A War of 1812. After much debate and part of telling this story is recognizing extensive research, Smith decided our nationhood and that all of our to submit a creation told from an treaties and all of our negotiations Onkwehon:wen perspective on the have always been on a nation-to- role that First Nations warriors nation basis.” played during the war, which was, and still is, a little-known aspect of - Erica Commanda the War of 1812. Muskrat Magazine “It specifically rang home with me Kaha:Wi Dance Theatre because I have ancestors who fought The Honouring in that war,” she said. “John Smoke PARTRIDGE HALL Johnson was a relation of mine.” REGULAR: $42 During the War of 1812, Johnson MEMBER: $36 became an influential Mohawk leader CHILDREN (13 + UNDER): $25 among First Nations and British communities in Ontario. Fri 31 Mar 7:30PM A part of her research involved HOT TICKET MEMBERS reaching out to historians and BRING FRIENDS FOR FREE! CENTRESTAGE 39
Geordie Productions GEORDIE PRODUCTIONS as actors playing out a scenario.Jabber Mariana Tayler is wonderful and by Marcus Youssef THEATRE believable as Fatima, the Muslim PARTRIDGE HALL Fatima used to hang out with her Canadian teen who isn't as shy as ALL TICKETS: $20 hijab-wearing friends, dubbing people assume her to be. themselves the \"jabbers,\" but when Tayler's Fatima has a great Wed 5 Apr 7PM a racist incident happens at her chemistry with Ian Geldart's Jorah, RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 12+ school, Fatima's parents panic and who gives the misunderstood boy force her to move to a new school. At wonderful layers beneath the HOT TICKET MEMBERS the new school, Jorah is a troubled hooded \"loner.\" David Skylar fills in BRING FRIENDS FOR FREE! and mysterious boy who is intrigued the gap as Mr. E, as well as Melissa, by the new Muslim girl after they another teen girl that goes to the40 CENTRESTAGE keep bumping into each other at the school. Even Skylar's Mr. E, while guidance counsellor, Mr. E's, office. attempting to be a calm counsellor, Jabber sets itself up as a play still has his own preconceived for teens, but while it uses its notions and imperfections. While framing device and teen-speak the effective framing device still tone to connect with its intended does first hint that the play might audience, its unraveling complexity, talk down to its teen audience, much which slowly reveals the two main like the subject matter, it uses it characters' individual emotions, to revert your initial thoughts and problems, and thoughts, and the twists and reels you into the story of many issues teens deal with today, these two teens' lives. manages to draw the audience in. Everything is not as it first seems, Jabber examines and Youssef's play is wonderfully assumptions based on written in its examination of the appearances within the assumptions and stereotypes we school world – where a make, as well as the isolation and diverse student population connections Canadian teens live must learn to negotiate through today, despite our social cross-cultural respect and media-connected world. mutual understanding. While there are some moments that might not make sense, this will come Fatima, Jorah, even Mr. E, and into play later in the plot, showing Melissa, are fascinating characters the realities of our human flaws. This that are far more complex than is not just some perfect moral tale first-impressions would indicate, told all neat and tidily. and Marcus Youssef has written Amanda Kellock's direction, and a a wonderfully complex tale that simple set (by James Lavoie) with doesn't feel like a lesson plan. some frames, chairs and a screen, - Vance is used to maximum effect, with a Originally published on cast of three gamely presenting this Tapeworthy.Blogspot.com
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CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE NOTE FOR NOTE, CUT FOR CUTPERFORMING history, Are You Experienced of the guitar, sometimes he’sHENDRIX TAKES introduced the world to Hendrix’s picking notes down near the bridgeEXPERIENCE unique guitar prowess and his to get a certain tone. He wrote incomparable fusion of rock, blues songs with his right hand, played MUSIC and jazz amplified for maximum guitar with his left. He had bothIt’s one thing to be asked to walk in the impact. Classic songs such as “Purple hemispheres of his brain goingfootsteps of a god. It’s quite another to Haze,” “Hey Joe,” “Foxy Lady,” on in a very peculiar way. When Ibe asked to recreate his masterwork. “Manic Depression” and the seminal listen to some of the things he did IWhen the deity in question is the title track established Hendrix as the scratch my head. It’s almost like I’mimmortal Jimi Hendrix, you can bar with which all future guitarists starting the guitar at ground zero.”see the challenge a guitarist must would be measured. If anyone can pull off the impossibleface when asked to play note-perfect To help him achieve a level of task, it’s Broadbridge.renditions of the songs on Are You authenticity that fans would demand While Broadbridge has masteredExperienced for Classic Albums Live. of his guitar playing, Broadbridge his role as guitarist, don’t come to turned to his recording studio the show expecting to see Hendrix“When I started playing the guitar partner Edwin H. “Eddie” Kramer, incarnate. As with all Classicat age 12, it was because of the who served as recording engineer Albums Live performances, Jimisong “Little Wing,” which I heard on the four albums Hendrix released Hendrix Are You Experienced israndomly,” explains Clifton David before his untimely death in 1970. about recreating the music not theBroadbridge, the 38-year-old “Through Eddie I’ve developed a far look of the band they’re honouring.guitarist tasked with emulating greater understanding of the music, “With Classic Albums Live we dressHendrix on stage. “It absolutely how they recorded it, how they mixed in black. I don’t look anything likeresonated with me - the colours, the it, Jimi’s headspace through the Jimi Hendrix so that’s probably aimagination. I’ve been chasing my different albums, what was going on good thing. We just focus on havingtail trying to understand the music through the recording of different the audience lose themselves inof Jimi Hendrix ever since. Every songs. It was unlike anything else. the layers of the music. We’retime I listen to it I hear something That’s the one thing you have to keep replicating studio albums asnew or learn something new.” in mind when performing this music, opposed to trying to be a tribute it’s just an insane hybrid of influences band.”Widely regarded as one of the all thrown in.” Hearing is believing.greatest debut albums in music In addition to the disparate musical - David DeRocco influences he has to incorporate GoBeWeekly.com into his performance, Broadbridge has to recreate the unconventional Classic Albums Live playing style of Hendrix, an Jimi Hendrix ambidextrous player who often Are you Experienced played his guitar upside down, behind his back or with his teeth. PARTRIDGE HALL How does one recreate the wild REGULAR: $59 spontaneity and untameable sounds MEMBERS: $49 of Hendrix with the meticulous precision that Classic Albums Live Tue 18 Apr 7:30PM has built their reputation on? “Sometimes when he’s playing, he’s picking the notes up near the neck42 CENTRESTAGE
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BEMOREG mucrhrpishy sloanThe Pursuit of HappinessTHE HISTORY OF CANADIAN for the upcoming TransCanada Highwaymen shows,INDIE ROCK IN ONE GROUP there are no new songs. These concerts are all about pleasing the crowds and having fun, with each guy MUSIC bringing his four or five most popular tunes.The biographies of the members of the TransCanadaHighwaymen tell the story of a defining era in Canadian “Those guys are all entertainers in terms of the, ‘areindie music. The band, also known by the more you an artist or are you an entertainer?’ But I also thinkstraightforward tag of Berg, Murphy, Northey & Page, everybody in the Highwaymen group has their artistis undoubtedly one of the greatest collections of indie side,” says Murphy. “I think that when the four of us getrock musicians ever assembled in this country. And together, everybody is willing to engage the audiencethough they shy away from the term “supergroup,” it’s and engage each other.”hard not to refer to them as such. While seeing these musicians together at once,Just think about this: in the 10-year span from 1993 sharing songs everyone knows, like Sloan’s “The Restand 2002, there is not a year where a member of of My Life” or Barenaked Ladies’ “One Week,” has athis band wasn’t nominated for a JUNO Award. For high novelty factor for the audience, it’s a pretty novelCanadian music fans aged 30 to 45, the songs of Sloan experience for the musicians themselves.(Chris Murphy), Odds (Craig Northey), The Pursuit ofHappiness (Moe Berg), and Barenaked Ladies (Steven Four iconic Canadian frontmenPage) were ubiquitous. join forces to perform their hit songs and share road stories.While the four members of the band crossed pathsover the years in the tight-knit Canadian indie music “I’m just hanging out with my friends and getting toscene, it was actually a mutual friend, theatre director play [Pursuit of Happiness’] ‘I’m an Adult Now’ withJim Millan, who planted the idea for them to play the guy who wrote it and having Moe Berg sing thetogether live, sharing their songs and stories from the harmony on [Sloan’s] ‘Underwhelmed,’ it’s all highstage. As such, this isn’t the kind of supergroup that novelty for me,” says Murphy. “And I think as a sort ofignores the members’ respective discographies. In fact,44 CENTRESTAGE
norcrtaihg ey pstaevgene odds barenaked ladiespackage thing, I think it’s a pretty high-quality show and probably be up for whatever. I don’t know exactly howit’s a super fun hang for me.” that’s going to go, but in the process it’s super fun.”With both Sloan and his other group, Tuns, still active,Murphy is happy to see the TransCanada Highwaymen - Michael Rainekeep it easy and just have fun playing the hits. That said, CanadianMusicianRadio.ca“I think there could be a next step to it where it’s like,‘you know what? Let’s put our heads together and write Berg, Murphy, Northey & Pagesome songs’ or ‘let’s get together and record some othercovers,’” he says. “But for now, I’m also trying to keep PARTRIDGE HALLSloan on the tracks, too. Page has got his own thing, REGULAR: $62Craig is doing the Odds still, they continue to make music, MEMBERS: $53and Moe Berg is the most dormant. I think he would Wed 19 Apr 7:30PM CENTRESTAGE 45
CAROUSEL PLAYERSBoys, Girls, andOther MythologicalCreaturesby Mark CrawfordPlaywright Mark Crawfordin conversation withDirector Jessica Carmichael THEATRE MC: Despite a lot of news to the thinking about being their true selvesWith his plays The Birds and Bees, contrary, I believe most people whatever that may be and allowingBed and Breakfast, and Stag and truly do want a more open, and supporting other people to beDoe, Ontario playwright Mark understanding, compassionate, their true selves. And I hope anyCrawford weighs in on such topics as caring, empathetic society. grown-ups who are worried aboutsmall-town life, weddings, science, Especially for our kids. We want what we’re doing just come to see theagriculture, and love. In his new play, them to be the best version of play. It’s going to be a really fun time.Boys, Girls, And Other Mythological themselves they can be. This play There's a really cool dragon in it!Creatures, he explores gender, focuses on the hope of becoming JC: You and I have talked a lot abouttransformation and magic. our true selves and our ability to the kind of theatre we want to make.Director Jessica Carmichael sat down transform into kinder people. I come into theatre firstly wantingwith Mark to talk about his latest work JC: I’ve been preparing for to think and feel. To me there is noand his drive as a playwright. rehearsals reading Ontario’s difference between that need forJC: I know the simple answer of what updated Health and Physical adult or young people’s theatre.draws me to your script: a person’s Education Curriculums, which MC: Yeah, I don't really see a hugeright to ask for the space to be who include the new topic “Gender difference between them. It's like youthey fully are. What brought on the Expression.” There has been some say: when I see a play, I want to thinkidea of writing this story? interesting backlash on introducing and feel. I want a good story, I wantMC: In my time working with Theatre this important topic into public to have fun, and I want to care aboutfor Young Audience (TYA) companies schools. what's happening on stage.as an actor, I would sometimes MC: Here’s something I think JC: What inspires you as aencounter a young person who about a lot: just because we’re now playwright?seemed to be expressing their gender finally talking about gender non- MC: I draw inspiration from anywheredifferently from the other kids around conformity in kids doesn’t mean and everywhere. I'm always inspiredthem. At the same time, I started this is a new phenomenon. There by great plays I see or read, by greatto see more articles in mainstream will be boys in every single school movies or TV, by bad movies ormedia about kids and gender identity. we visit who sometimes wish they bad TV, by good books, great visualI thought these would be fascinating were girls. There are girls who art, by nature, by my friends andideas to explore with our youngest wish they were boys. There are family, by the news, and I’m alwaysaudiences while they’re still at their girls who like wearing dresses and inspired by audiences. I think mymost open and curious. girls who hate it. Boys who like main motivation comes from a desireJC: Why do you think this play is traditional \"boy stuff\" and boys to have an exciting conversationimportant to share now? who don’t want anything to do with between artist and audience. For it. I’m really excited to talk about this play, I draw inspiration from the46 CENTRESTAGE that. I hope this gets young people
young people in my life, as well as JC: Which talent would you most HISTORY Mthose gender non-conforming kids like to have? MATTERSI've encountered on school tours. MC: I have a very long list. But NAnd this play is hugely inspired by lately, I've been thinking about how Niagara’s Lawyersclassic fairy tales. cool it would be to speak multiple SSininccee 11888822JC: Describe your ideal writingenvironment. HISTORYlanguages. I'm going to do a playMC: Funny you should ask! I’ve beenthinking about this a lot lately. In my in Montreal in the spring and mynew house in Stratford, I will have an high school French is feeling prettyoffice for the first time in my life! Ithas a good window for staring out MATTERSrusty...of, a bit of floor for pacing, a spotfor my desk, and if I can squeeze it JC: What is your favourite journey?in, a couch to stretch out and think. MC: Do you mean physical journey?JC: I always love when writers I don’t know… But my favouritein interviews take the Proust journey in plays is the classicQuestionnaire. Will you do us the comedy structure: a journey frompleasure of answering a few suchquestions? Niagara’s Law Firmchaos and isolation to unity andMC: Sure thing!JC: Which words or phrases do you togetherness.most overuse?MC: A few that might not be Since 1882appropriate for publication... As aplaywright, I've been accused of Carousel Playersoverusing exclamation points! Boys, Girls, and OtherOh well!!!!! Mythological Creatures by Mark Crawford ROBERTSON THEATRE ALL TICKETS: $15 Sat 22 Apr 11AM + 2PM RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6+ 2016 –2017 SEASON Lancaster, Brooks Lancaster, Brooks L & Welch LLP & Welch LLPTHE FARTHEST SHOREA CELTIC CELEBRATION PHANTOM St. Catharines 905-641-1551 Saturday, March 4 • 7:30 PM OF THE OPERA Wednesday, May 3 • 7:30 PM CNCC sponsored by S90t.5C-6a4th1-a1ri5n5e1sCo-sponsored by Ken Rempel &FSopr oticnkestos,rceodntabctythe box office at: wChowruwsN.ialbgawralawCCyhhoeorrurssuN.sciNaogiaamgraa1r0a0 www.lbwlawyers.comP(9e0t5e) r68&8-0J7a2n2e/t fPirastrotnrtiadrgioepac.ca C H O R U S N ICAhoGruAsNRiaAga.raC1A00 CENTRESTAGE 47
TANYA TAGAQ nanook of the north COLONIZE THIS! collaboration taking place on INUIT THROAT stage. Together, they perform SINGER TANYA a live, inspired and informed TAGAQ TAMES musical soundscape presented ‘NANOOK’ simultaneously with the 1922 Robert Flaherty silent film. MUSIC The contrast is obvious. The film Wearing a shiny gold tunic and is a white man’s exploitative look hand-crafted silver-etched at the “exotic” and harrowing headpiece with bear claw accents lifestyle of one Inuit family on and sealskin mukluks, Inuit-style the brink of contact. The singer is throat singer Tanya Tagaq took the living proof of the intersecting of stage at Vancouver's York Theatre cultures resulting in a dynamic, on January 31 as one-third of a trio. self-empowered display of Inuit Their mission: contextualize Nanook ethereal reality with both Nanook of the North, a silent film that is and Tagaq reaching into their un- both a cinematic landmark and a named spirit domains that help(ed) document of the era's patronizing both to survive; one literally, the colonialist mentality. other culturally. Tanya confronts the ridiculous Cambridge Bay-born and Brandon, representation of her people Manitoba-based singer Tagaq through her expressive vocables. A collaborates with her longtime gramophone is introduced to the musical partner, violinist Jesse Inuit family in the film as a whimsical Zubot, and percussionist Jean experiment to “see what would Martin, the trio's hardest-working occur.” An Inuit, surviving off the member, who punches in electronic land, combating life-threatening cues from the foundation of the elements on a daily basis would soundscape while keeping time have no need for a gramophone and responding to the immediate or records. However the filmmaker thought it “funny” to have Nanook, his children and hard-working pets interact with this object, directing48 CENTRESTAGE
them to bite the record in a caveman- portraying the alpha dog we see on Calling Tanya like fashion. Tagaq found this screen. The audience’s gaze shifts Tagaq an Inuit throat offensive when she viewed the film from screen to singer, to musicians, as a child and exacts her revenge back to the screen. Tanya is an ‘‘singer is like calling Yo-Yo delivering a gravely, equally offensive animated performer and lends reply, repeating the word Colonizer— satisfaction to the note “people Ma a cello player. Sure, it’s Colonizer—Colonizer when the listen with their ears as well as accurate, but it’s not the gramophone makes its appearance. their eyes.” In this performance whole of what he does. she is no less animated, but a Like Ma, Tagaq is the She celebrates the beauty of the bit more stationary as the trio best of what she does — people and the land she so loves receives musical cues from the film innovative, inspired.” too. Tagaq has been quoted as displayed on monitors at their feet. saying “Inuit babies are so cute, you In this unique pairing of live - THE NATIONAL POST, CANADA just want to eat them.” With her performance and film, we are extraordinary vocal range, Tagaq privy to gifts of the extraordinary. Tanya Tagaq channels adorable baby sounds Through instinct and practice, Nanook of the North when Nanook’s offspring pokes out Nanook locates a sea lion beneath from mommy’s hood and intuits the the ice and with the help of his PARTRIDGE HALL whimpering of puppies. Conversely, extended family, wins a tug of REGULAR: $35 war with the creature to feed his MEMBERS: $30‘‘she growls in rhythmic spurts family. Tagaq employs similar Tagaq projects instincts pulling the audience Thu 4 May 7:30PM sounds that carry the through a performance experience imprint of the body’s secret like no other. She continues to contours and recesses, push the boundaries of both vocal delving far beyond personal performance and cultural traditions utterance, out beyond to create new territory. She has human identity, to summon found a fearlessness inside the voices from the flesh cavity reinvention of Inuit throat singing haunts of animal spirits and that liberates her as an artist and primal energies.” thrills us, as an audience. - THE WIRE (UK) Take that, Robert Flaherty. - Janet Rogers Originally published by Indian Country Media Network FAMILYHEARING CLINIC Trust your hearing to an audiologistMike Pihura, B.S., M.S., AuD Doctor of Audiology Owner33 Lakeshore Rd. (at Lake St.) How can you enjoy St. Catharines the performance… Call for appointment if you can’t hear it ? 905-938-2479 www.familyhearing.ca CENTRESTAGE 49
SFPREINSGT+SIUVMMAERLlOVEIN THE SOILARTS FESTIVAL 28-30 APRIL600 ARTISTS,15 VENUES, Theatre - Over a dozen new plays, DOWNTOWN ST. CATHARINES3 DAYS, 1 REALLY collaborative creations and SuitcaseGOOD TIME in Point’s signature comedy show together to provide unique audience to Robertson Theatre and venues experiences.In the Soil Arts Festival is a multi- throughout downtown The festival nurtures the creation ofdisciplinary explosion of creativity. Poetry - A poetry slam, readings new work, encourages innovation,Celebrating nine years, the festival and special poetry performances offers learning opportunitieshas grown in both scope and impact created just for the festival. for youth and provides intimateas the premier showcase for the arts One-time audience experiences and uncommon platforms forin Niagara. Streets filled with installations and audiences to experience artwork.In the Soil Arts Festival encourages interactive art opportunities and Last year over 500 artists andaudiences to discover new artists expanded RHIZOMES choose-your- 6000 attendees came together toand art forms while promising a own-art-adventure celebrate the arts of Niagara andwide variety of offerings to choose Family - Free interactive activities beyond. This year, In the Soil Artsfrom: for families at our outdoor hub Festival is bringing another rich andMusic - Over 50 bands and solo and in partnership with the St. fruitful harvest to the St. Catharinesartists will grace our venues' Catharines Library downtown core to help grow astages to share rock, jazz, pop, In the Soil Arts Festival is brought Niagara that is self-determining andexperimental, hip-hop and more to you by Suitcase in Point Theatre culturally distinct. Company and festival partners with an aim to bring Niagara Early Bird All access artists from a range of disciplines festival pass (until 1 APR) $35 All access festival pass (after 1 APR) $50 Individual events range from free to $20 per ticket Get all the dirt at INTHESOIL.ON.CA50 CENTRESTAGE
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