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Profile:
Peter & Nancy Richards by Jane Ledwell
Keep on Buzzin’
The fifteenth of the month is approaching, and the arts community in PEI knows what that means: time to get your act together to meet The Buzz deadline, if you want to get the word out. Th date is circled in red in every cultural event planner’s mental calendar.
Back in March, as lockdown loomed on March 15, Peter and Nancy Richards put the finishing touches on their last edition of The Buzz as owner-editors and in uncertain times turned the buzzing over to the next generation. Until April, Peter had co-founded The Buzz in 1993 and was managing editor; Nancy had started working for the monthly newspaper in 1996 and was still playing a key editorial role, condensing and balancing content from hundreds of news releases and notices. And yet, “After six months,” Peter says, “the fifteenth is just like any other day.” Nancy smiles, “It’s nothing to do with us.”
of readers.” Nancy worked with an audience in mind of “people interested in the culture around them, not the people who want to stay home and not be involved in their community.” Turning to Peter, Nancy says, “When you and Derek [Martin] started, you looked for what would make the community better.”
Peter recalls, “I was involved in the arts community already, and there was a level of activity you couldn’t deny, in all the arts. But there was a feeling we couldn’t get the word out well.”
Nancy remembers, “When The Buzz first started there wasn’t even email. Everything came in on paper. Stuff would come in on napkins. Peter was not only selling ads, doing the layout, and taking photos, but also typing and editing. When I took over typing [in 1996], that was when email began.”
Peter says, “It was like putting one brick on top of another, in all directions… We just grew with it; The Buzz was growing in response to the arts community.” Nancy agrees, “At a certain point, we would have to change our ways of doing things to respond.”
About the arts community, “One of the things,” Peter observes, “is that it’s accessible… People have their enterprises they are trying to build, but there is a spirit of openness. I saw it at the beginning, and maybe I didn’t know any better: I just thought, of course musicians will want to know about theatre, of course theatre people will want to know what film is on at City Cinema.”
culture. Recent peaks in the tourism industry, they said, were “sold so much on culture.” Nancy recalls noticing that suddenly, as she put listings together, “The headliners and stars were all Islanders.” Peter agrees, that, yes, “The lead roles on the big stages, the production roles, the direction roles, the behind-the-scenes roles, were Islanders.” They concur, “It wasn’t like that when we started.”
“I will say it took a while to get released from that schedule,” Peter admits, while Nancy confesses (surprisingly vehemently after almost 25 years in a deadline-driven job), “I don’t enjoy working under pressure.”
What redeemed the pressure for Nancy? She says, “It was a joy to know what events were planned for the month.” But, she adds, “I would reach a point and say, ‘There’s the perfect Buzz, there it is.’” And still more information would flow in. Peter smiles, “At one point in the month, Nancy would say, ‘Peter, there is too much stuff for this month’s Buzz.’ And I would say, ‘Great.’” The goal, he says, “was always to fit everything in, and 99 percent of the time we did that.”
Peter says The Buzz was always designed to reach “a broad spectrum of the community. We wanted to respect the intelligence and experience of readers, and live up to the expectations
Nancy values in the PEI arts community “the mix of local events and things coming in from outside… Amazing artists and performers who come to the Island.” The Buzz placed notices of local, national and international side by side. Peter agrees, “That is part of our self-imposed mandate to be inclusive and to treat the local event at the same attention as the national, higher profile one.” He says, “You might look through for the Tuesday night ceilidh, but you would see everything else going on.”
Both Peter and Nancy could name many highlights of their Buzz careers. Nancy says, “I always enjoyed it when you would hear someone say so-and-so moved to the Island because they were given a copy of The Buzz and saw what was happening.”
Generously, Peter says, “One of the best things in all the experiences was meeting the people who became our regular contributors.” Nancy agrees, “It was a monthly treat to see each article come in.”
Both Peter and Nancy witnessed incredible momentum build in PEI
And while neither Peter nor Nancy is sure what COVID-19 will mean for the momentum that had built in the arts community, both are optimistic. Nancy says a little wistfully, “The sad thing is, you could feel as The Buzz started, a lot of other things started,” and just as she and Peter were retiring, many institutions of the same vintage “were ending, or starting in a new form—and [when COVID hit] there were so many young people about to do their next big thing.”
Peter agrees, the new generation faces an unexpected challenge. But, he says, “I am optimistic. The reason the PEI arts community flourished [in the past] is that the people who lived here made it happen. It grew out of the community at its roots. You could get an audience in PEI, even out of a small population.” Nancy nods. “The Island supports local really well,” she says. And Peter concludes, “It’s a strong community.”
Neither adds, with a way to find out what’s going on in the community month to month, but they are more than proud a new generation is keeping the buzz going. “We are Buzz readers now,” they say appreciatively.
This will be Jane’s last profile for The Buzz. By our count, over the last 23 years, Jane has profiled over 260 people. We are grateful for all the work she’s done to share those stories with our readers.
I first issue of The Buzz—June 1993
Comfort & Joy
Holiday variety show at Conferation Centre—Dec 20
Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown will present Comfort & Joy, an old-fashioned holiday variety show featuring some of Atlantic Canada’s finest entertainers, December 20 at 8 pm.
Co-created by Artistic Director Adam Brazier and co-starring Tara MacLean, Catherine MacLellan and Kinley Dowling, Comfort & Joy will ring in the holiday season in style live from the Mainstage at Confederation Centre. The Sobeys LIVE @ the Centre concert promises to dazzle with seasonal numbers, live dance and plenty of Island celebration.
All three headliners will perform holiday songs and will be joined by a selection of guest talent. These include Brazier himself, R&B singer Kierrah Celeste, a performance from the Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors, Gia Kierrah, Megan Broome, Vince The Messenger, and many more.
The performance will also be available from the comfort and joy of home, as the concert will be offered via live
stream. For the cost of a movie rental, patrons can sip hot chocolate at home and take in a feel-good family concert featuring more than 20 artists, live at the Centre.
“This has been a hard year for everyone, and we’re all due for some great live music and holiday cheer!” says Steve Bellamy, CEO of Confederation Centre. “It is so exciting to be hosting concerts and events again, and whether you wish to enjoy this concert at home or in the big room in person, we hope you’ll join us for a wonderful night of songs, spirit and community.”
Additional features of the variety show include a ballet performance of The Nutcracker; an all-star live band led by Music Director Natalie Williams Calhoun with Morgan Saulnier and Alan Dowling; and a live on-stage reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas, featuring a very special Island guest.
To book now call 566-1267, visit confederationcentre.com, or go to the box office in person.
Formation of Theatre PEI
New group to advance the sector
The PEI theatre community has joined together to form Theatre PEI, an association of organizations and individuals working together to advance the visibility and viability of PEI-based theatre both on and off the Island.
The organization will have a revolving leadership position. Emily Smith of Victoria Playhouse will serve as the first President for a one-year term.
Membership is open to any organization working in the sector or any individual on the Island who works in theatre. Anyone interested in joining Theatre PEI can email Emily Smith at emily@victoriaplayhouse.com. There is no fee to register at this time.
The founding members of the group are The Charlottetown Festival, The Guild, Harbourfront Theatre, Island Fringe Festival, Kings Playhouse, River Clyde Pageant, Victoria Playhouse, Watermark Theatre and Young at Heart.
Future initiatives and events will be released in the coming months.
For more information, follow Theatre PEI on FB or email Emily at emily@victoriaplayhouse.com.
Catherine MacLellan, Tara MacLean and Kinley Dowling co-star Comfort & Joy
Charlottetown Christmas Fest
The 2020 Charlottetown Christmas Festival presented by Discover Charlottetown continues through December 13.
“Christmas Town, a WhovilleInspired Village” is part of the extended Festival. Clustered along the Confederation Centre Plaza are over 50 unique, handmade, Whoville-inspired characters and extra holiday decor.
Two key artists, Julie Doneff and Becca Griffin, were hired to create the characters, with added creative support from Becka Viau. The artists collaborated with Karyn MacPhee, the Confederation Centre’s Wardrobe Mistress, who donated various “oldtimey” costumes to add to the character’s authenticity.
The three-week Christmas Festival includes festive programming like free wine tastings at restaurants, historic walking tours, cooking workshops, horse and wagon rides, carolers, stiltwalkers, Spirits of the Season card readings, a Friday Night Retail Shopping Trail, live music, ice sculptures, Christmas movies, gingerbread house-making competitions and children’s entertainment.
Santa’s parade
The Charlottetown Christmas Parade presents Santa Claus Comes to Town, a roving convoy spreading holiday magic throughout all seven neighbourhoods across Charlottetown. Beginning at 5:30 pm daily from November 30 to December 4, Santa Claus Comes to Town will feature a Charlottetown Police vehicle, Charlottetown Fire truck, Charlie Town the dog, and of course, Santa.
Spectators are encouraged to welcome Santa from their residence. Route maps can be found online at charlottetown.ca/santatours.
PEI Symphony Orchestra
Featuring Morgan Saulnier and Frances McBurnie—Dec
The PEI Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) presents flutist Morgan Saulnier, along with pianist Frances McBurnie, for two evenings of flute repertoire December 4 at The Kirk of St. James in Charlottetown and December 11 at Hillcrest Church in Montague.
Saulnier and McBurnie have been making music together for nearly two decades, with performances spanning from PEI to BC. The December program will feature works by Griffes, Deutilleux, Handel, Srul Irving Glick and others.
Morgan Saulnier holds a Masters in Flute Performance from Memorial University and a Bachelor of Music from UPEI. She has performed in several master classes and competitions across the country, receiving instruction from Michel Debost, Susan Hoeppner and Camille Churchfield.
Saulnier is Principal Flute of the PEISO, a core member of eklektikos—a chamber ensemble focused on new Canadian works, and has been a sessional instructor at UPEI’s Music Department since 2009. She maintains an active role in the Island’s music scene as a flute and piano educator, soloist and collaborator. In 2014, she released a CD of French flute music with pianist Mark Ramsay.
4 & 11
Frances McBurnie grew up in NS and has degrees from Mount Allison University and the University of Western Ontario. She came to the Island to fill a one-year appointment
at UPEI and has stayed ever since. McBurnie has established a reputation for her wide body of work as collaborative pianist, performing with highly regarded Canadian artists as well as aspiring protégés. She is in demand as a teacher, adjudicator and organist, and has performed as soloist with the PEISO and the Strathgartney Chamber Orchestra. McBurnie is Organist and Director of Music at the Kirk of St. James in Charlottetown.
Info/tickets: peisymphony.com
Morgan Saulnier
Recycling
Call2Recycle is PEI’s provincially-regulated battery collection and recycling program. Used batteries can be harmful to the environment if they end up in landfill, so they should be responsibly recycled. Never put used batteries in the trash or regular recycling.
Gathering at Watermark
Watermark Theatre’s annual Community Gathering event will return this year with a new pandemic friendly format. The Annual Watermark Community Gathering: A Magical Tour will take place December 18 with staggered entrances from 6–8:45 pm.
The Watermark Community Gathering is an annual event in North Rustico and 2020 would have been their fifth gathering. This year Watermark has instead created a Magical Tour through their building that will include music and theatrical vignettes with former company members, comedy, a rare peek at their backstage and production areas, holiday decorations, and of course, Santa.
A donation of non-perishable food items for admission at the door will be appreciated. All proceeds will go to the Food Bank. Suggested items include canned fruit and proteins, pasta, beans, peanut butter and whole grain cereals.
For more information, contact Andrea Surich at generalmanager@ watermarktheatre.com.
Watermark Theatre is located at 57 Church Hill Ave in North Rustico. watermarktheatre.com
The Good Lovelies
Virtual Christmas concert by Indian River Festival—Dec 11
The Good Lovelies will be hosting a virtual holiday concert for Atlantic Canadians—presented by Indian River Festival—on December 11 at 7 pm. Christmas Time’s A Comin’ Virtual Christmas Tour 2020 with the Good Lovelies will hit communities across Canada, the UK and Australia.
The Good Lovelies will be joined on stage by their band of merry gentlemen: Steve Zsirai on upright bass, Robbie Grunwald on keys and Mark Mariash on drums. The show will feature holiday favourites, original songs, and those three-part harmonies Caroline Brooks, Kerri Ough, and Susan Passmore are known for.
The Good Lovelies explain, “For our 15th Christmas season together, we’re determined to keep the tradition alive! So we have teamed up with venues, partners, and charities. Each of the 10 shows will be performed live, feature a special guest, and support a charity local to our community partner.”
With nine releases, the band has toured extensively around the world and earned a JUNO award (2010), a JUNO nomination (2012), and four Canadian Folk Music Awards along the way.
The Good Lovelies recently released the Benjamin “Tex” Logan classic, “Christmas Time’s A Comin’,” to celebrate the launch of the tour.
The band is donating a portion of ticket sales to the Chief Mary Bernard Memorial Women’s Shelter and the Indian River Festival Association.
Follow the concert link at indianriverfestival.com to purchase one of a limited number of tickets available.
The East Pointers
Pop-folk trio return to Conferation Centre—Dec 30 & 31
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After selling out the Mainstage theatre last year, the JUNO award winning trio will return ready to rock the rafters at the Centre. With Billboard-worthy pop hooks, deep acoustic grooves,
trance-like breakdowns and threepart harmonies, Tim Chaisson, Koady Chaisson and Jake Charron capture the energy of their live shows and push the boundaries of folk. The trio has performed more than 500 live shows worldwide in the last five years but nothing beats a hometown crowd.
For tickets call 566-1267, go to the box office or visit confederationcentre.com.
December in Georgetown
The Kings Playhouse in Georgetown has a busy schedule in December with concerts, art exhibits, art classes and more. Staff and volunteers have decked the halls of Kings Playhouse with boughs of holly, Christmas trees and other decorations for all to enjoy throughout the season.
Winter Magic Art Workshops continue at the Playhouse with special holiday-themed art. Back by popular demand, Painting with Amy will feature a holiday-themed paint night on December 3. All ages welcome and materials will be provided. After school art workshops for kids continue on Tuesdays to December 15 with Amy MacConnell leading the class in creating ornaments and holiday crafts.
The Annual Artisan Market will take place December 5 in the hall at Kings Playhouse. Local vendors will be at the market from 10 am–6 pm.
As part of the Lens and Palette program, photography and visual art by Ann Clow is the featured art exhibit for the month of December. Clow will also be hosting Art Expressions, an adult art class, on December 10 at 6:30 pm. No experience necessary.
Christmas In the Air—An Island Concert Through and Through, featuring musical director Lisa MacDougall and local Island singers performing music by Rita MacNeil, Lennie Gallant, Heather Rankin and more, will be on stage December 12 at 7:30 pm and December 13 at 2 pm.
Tickets and more information at kingsplayhouse.com.
Sobeys LIVE
the Centre presents the internationally acclaimed pop-folk trio, The East Pointers, December 30 and 31 at 8 pm at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown.
EXHIBITS galleries and museums
Confed Centre Art Gallery
On view: Creative Obsessions: A Look at Contemporary Craft in Prince Edward Island to Jan 3; Nelson White: Tukien (Awaken) to Jan 13; and Give me Shelter to Apr 6. Open Tue–Sun 10 am–5 pm. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown. 628-6142, confederationcentre.com
Cornwall Library Art Gallery
The Cornwall Library’s annual Youth Art Show is on view through Dec. Young artists in Cornwall and surrounding area each submit one piece of visual art. Contact for info on displaying in the gallery. Located in Cornwall Town Hall, off Main St, Cornwall. 629-8415
Gallery @ The Guild
On view is Metamorphosis by Elaine and Jennie to Dec 5. this town is small presents The Cusp by Damien Worth from Dec 8–Jan 4. This series explores new approaches to depicting landscape in times of transition. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown. theguildpei.com
Kings Playhouse Gallery
The Lens and Palette program will feature photography and visual art by Ann
Clow for the month of Dec. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown. kingsplayhouse.com
Eptek Art & Culture Centre
In Dec, there will be a holiday-themed exhibit in the lobby featuring artifacts from the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation collections. On view to Jan 8 is Animal Kingdom by 26 members of the Summerside Art Club. Featuring paintings, felt sculpture, rug hooking, and more. Visit the permanent exhibition on the history and architecture of Summerside. Eptek is a site of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation. Open Tue–Fri 10 am–4 pm and most Sun 12–4 pm. Admission by donation. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. peimuseum.com
Receiver Coffee Co.
this town is small presents Get Well Soon! by Donnalee Downe, on view to Dec 13. Vintage hand embroidery is altered to juxtapose text excerpts from two collections disparate in tone and nature. Also on view, @billspotting—A Retrospective curated by Max Knechtel, from Dec 14–Feb 1. Collected and shared digital images of Bill McFadden throughout 2019 until his passing in 2020. 128 Richmond St, Charlottetown. 367-3436
Final Meet the Makers
Arlene MacAusland and Rilla Marshall will present—Dec 5
The final session of Meet the Makers —a drop-in presentation series centred on the Creative Obsessions exhibition at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown—will take place December 5 from 1–4 pm.
Guest artists this month are textiles and fabric artist Arlene MacAusland and hand-weaver, Rilla Marshall.
“I have been exploring the personal narrative of my first year of motherhood through my textile practice,” shares Marshall. “Using my own records and experience within my immediate landscape, these new works focus on the repetition of daily life with a new baby.” Some of the works were dyed directly on her loom.
MacAusland creates geometric patterns inspired by circles, folk art
animals and traditional quilts.
“Texture and fibre are important elements for me, whether it comes from added beads and velvet or the pattern of light as the sun pours through a sharp tin punch piece,” she offers. “Some of my first wool appliqué work was a series of mats depicting flowers by using circles.”
The goal is for visitors to come away with a deeper understanding of the techniques and labour that go into each artwork in the exhibition, and gain knowlege about processes that they may not normally have access to from simply visiting the Gallery.
All are welcome for this free public programming. Creative Obsessions is on display until January 3.
confederationcentre.com/gallery
Rilla Marshall, Channel Series: Blooming Point, PE; Darnley, PE; Greenwich, PE; Hog Island, PE, 2020. Cotton.
FOOD
Support local with gift card program
Canada’s Food Island gift cards are available at locations Island-wide. There are over 175 merchants who accept the gift card and this number continues to grow. Accommodations across PEI also participated in the gift card program’s Stay & Savour promotion, which continues to Mar 2021. The program was launched in Sep to encourage Islanders and visitors to support local businesses. Info: giftcard. canadasfoodisland.ca
Favourite Holiday treat recipe booklet
The Friends of Eptek Centre, a group of volunteers who support the programming at the Centre, are releasing a booklet featuring some of their favourite Holiday recipes. The booklet will be available in early Dec at Eptek Art & Culture Centre, 130 Heather Moyse Drive, in Summerside. Eptek Centre is an exhibition facility featuring changing exhibits, a permanent exhibit on Summerside’s history and architecture, and a gift shop with local art, craft and books on Island themes. It is a site of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation. New volunteers are welcome. Info: 8888373, peimuseum.com
2020 GUILD PRESENTS
DECEMBER
Christmas in the Air
An Island Christmas Concert, Through & Through
November 26 - December 20
The Guild Music Theatre School Presents: Bah Humbug! Scrooge’s Christmas Carol
December 5 - 13
Calypso Secrets
December 5 & 12
Christmas with Phase II & Friends Sold out!
December 6, 13, & 14
Gallery @ The Guild: The Cusp by Damien Worth
December 9 - 31
Another Sketchy Xmas
December 17 - 20
Cocktails & Candy Canes
December 21 & 22
Amazing Tales of the Atlantic
December 23
Holiday Greeting from The Guild, and Here’s to a Happy & Healthy New Year!
It’s a Wonderful Life
Live Radio Play at Conferation Centre and Watermark Theatre
ACT (a community theatre) will present live theatre in December, bringing It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play by Joe Landry to the stage, in partnership with Confederation Centre of the Arts. The show opens December 3, 4 and 5 at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown, and continues December 10, 11 and 12 at the Watermark Theatre in North Rustico.
It’s a Wonderful Life is the heartwarming tale of George Bailey, a typical American dreamer, who contemplates ending his life one Christmas Eve. With the help of his guardian angel, he discovers the true value of friendship and family. The play is set on a 1940’s radio stage, complete with local advertising jingles and live sound effects.
“We are so excited to be partnering with ACT for this production,” offers Adam Brazier, artistic director of the Confederation Centre. “One of our strategic priorities is to support local
theatre initiatives. It’s a Wonderful Life is an uplifting story of family, love, hope, and redemption—a perfect message for 2020 and the Island holiday season.”
ACT celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2020, and president Marti Hopson was determined to stage a production.
“It’s terrific that we can take this show to multiple locations, and I think the audience will enjoy seeing this classic in a new way, with six actors playing multiple parts,” says Hopson.
The cast is Alex Arsenault, Jenna Marie Holmes, Amanda Rae Gallant, Mike Mallaley, Keir Malone and Rob Thomson, joined by Mitchell Gallant on sound effects.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play is suitable for all ages. Tickets are available at confederationcentre.com and ticketwizard.ca.
BRIAN COLLINS, LANDWASH STUDIO
(back l to r): Amanda Rae Gallant, Rob Thomson, Keir Malone, Jenna Marie Homes; (front l to r): Mike Mallaley, Alex Arsenault
The
Brew by Bryan Carver
Ode to brewers
‘Twas a month before Christmas, And on our fair Isle, We all could be sheltered At home for a while.
Christmas parties cancelled, Pray just for this year, The Fridges are stocked With locally brewed beer. Carols will be sung While six feet apart, For everyone’s trying To just do their part.
The children are nestled All snug in their beds, Thoughts of warm summers Filling their heads.
Ma, in her slippers And me, my third beer, Are all too happy seeing The end of this year.
The Avenue lay quiet, hardly a clatter, Zooms fill rooms with loud festive chatter.
Friends keeping touch from miles apart, Holiday sentiments filling their hearts.
Local brewers busy, with new beery delights, Enjoyed in close company on dark winter nights. In a year so different from any before, Here’s to 2021 bringing good news to your door. We’ve all done great keeping each other safe, Wearing our masks and respecting that space. Enough of ol’COVID, that’s not why you’re here, You came to read me ramble on about beer!
On our little Island, brewers are doing their best, Fine ales and lagers help put worries at rest. With ten little breweries all finding their way, To make the best beers they can each and every day.
Eric at Moth Lane in Ellersie has given us the Answer, Which certainly is not a reindeer named Prancer. Spencer at Lone Oak in Borden with Foeder aged ales, Spinning yarns of shenanigans and mustard pickle tales. Evermoore in the old Summerside train station, Giving that town a great beer destination. Hoagie at Upstreet happily beer engineering, Tinkering with new recipes fans find endearing. PEI Brewing and their talented team, Brewing fine beers, all exceptionally clean.
Mark at Montague’s Bogside making fine German beers, Ones that fans will be enjoying for years. Ken and his Copper Bottom crew across the river, Pilsners so good that they make me shiver. Don and the Dogfathers out at Barnone, Mashing in early under the rising winter sun. Downtown at Gahan, industry stalwart Trent Hayes, Happily brewing… well, some of the days. And I, B.A. Carver, at Ye Ol’ Village Green, Brewing in the back, as I prefer not to be seen.
We brewers all want things to improve next year, And until we can’t, we will keep brewing beer. Carefully treated water, finely selected grains, Hops combinations swirl in our brains. Nurturing yeast with the greatest of care, Inspiration, at times, coming out of thin air. 2020 has been a challenge, you know the reason, So support your local brewer this Holiday season!
Dec 2–3, Dec 5 6:30 pm
Le Prix de Noël Dinner
Theatre
Village musical acadien, Abram-Village
Dec 3–4, 7 pm
Christmas in the Air
The Guild, Ch’town
Dec 3–5, 7:30 pm, Dec 5, 2 pm
It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live
Radio Play
Confederation Centre of the Arts, Ch’town
Dec 4–6, Fri & Sat-7 pm, Sun-2 pm
Holiday Kitchen Party with Mike Ross & Friends
Harmony House Theatre, Hunter River
Dec 4, 6 & 7, 7:30 pm
Lennie Gallant “The Innkeeper’s Christmas” Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague
Dec 5, 7:30 pm
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: A celtic Family Christmas at Home
Virtual concert through Harbourfront Theatre, S’side
PERFORMANCE
Dec 5, 4 pm & 6:30 pm, Dec 6, 2 pm
Bah, Humbug! Scrooge’s
Christmas Carol
Presented by The Guild Musical Theatre School, The Guild, Ch’town
Dec 5, 7:30 pm, Dec 6, 2 pm
Christmas in the Air
Victoria Playhouse, Victoria
Dec 5 & 12, 9 pm
Calypso Secrets Dance Show
The Guild, Ch’town
Dec 6, 7:30 pm
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: A celtic
Family Christmas at Home
Virtual concert through Confederation Centre of the Arts, Ch’town
Dec 6, 8 pm
Nick Doneff
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 8, 7:30 pm
Eugene O’Neill - Desire Under The Elms
Benevolent Irish Society play reading Irish Cultural Centre, Ch’town
Dec 8, 8 pm
Shane Pendergast
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 9, 7:30 pm
Christmas with the King
Thane Dunn & The Cadillac Kings Celtic Performing Arts Centre, S’side
Dec 9, 7:30 pm
Barra Macneils Celtic Christmas
Homburg Theatre, Confederation Centre of the Arts, Ch’town
Dec 9–10, 8 pm
CÒIG Christmas Show
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 10, 7 pm, Dec 11, 4 pm
Christmas in the Air
The Guild, Ch’town
Dec 10–12, 7:30 pm, Dec 12, 2 pm
It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live
Radio Play
Watermark Theatre, North Rustico
Dec 11, 7:30 pm
Richard Wood with Brad Fremlin, Jon Matthews and stepdancers Alexis and Marlys MacLaren
Celtic Performing Arts Centre, S’side
Dec 11–12, 8 pm
Night Music with Sarah Hagan
St. Paul’s Church, Ch’town
Dec 11, 7 pm, Dec 12, 4 pm & 6:30 pm, Dec 13, 2 pm
Bah, Humbug! Scrooge’s
Christmas Carol
Presented by The Guild Musical Theatre School, The Guild, Ch’town
Dec 11–13, Fri & Sat 7 pm, Sun 2 pm
Holiday Kitchen Party with Mike Ross & Friends
Harmony House Theatre, Hunter River
Dec 11–13, 8 pm
Ledwell & Haines: A Trailside
Christmas
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 12, 7:30 pm, Dec 13, 2 pm
Christmas in the Air
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 15, 8 pm
Hugh Leaonard - Da
Benevolent Irish Society play reading Irish Cultural Centre, Ch’town
Dec 15, 8 pm
Tara MacLean with special guest Kierrah Celeste
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 16, 8 pm
Winterjazz Quartet
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 17, 8 pm
Jill Chandler & Maureen Trainor Christmas Show
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 17–20, 4 pm
Christmas in the Air The Guild, Ch’town
Dec 17–20, 8 pm
Another Sketchy Xmas The Guild, Ch’town
Dec 18, 7:30 pm
Ledwell and Haines
Christmas Special Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 18–19, 8 pm
Andrew Waite
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 19–20, 7 pm
Traditional Christmas Concert
Village musical acadien, Abram-Village
Dec 20, 8 pm
Comfort & Joy
Variety Concert
Confederation Centre of the Arts, Ch’town
Dec 20, 8 pm
Kimberly Mooney–Book release for The Recital Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 21–23, 8 pm
Dave Gunning & J.P. Cormier
Christmas Show
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 23, 8 pm
Amazing Tales of the Atlantic The Guild, Ch’town
Dec 27, 2 pm & 7:30 pm
Lennie Gallant & Friends
Julie Pellissier-Lush, Jenna-Marie Gallant, Max Keenlyside, Marcella Richard Cymbria Lions Club, North Rustico
Dec 28, 8 pm
Coyote Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 29, 8 pm
The High Five
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Dec 30 & 31, 8 pm
The East Pointers
Confederation Centre of the Arts, Ch’town
Jan 2, 8 pm
Lawrence Maxwell
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Jan 3, 8 pm
Craig Fair Presents: Trailside Cabaret Series
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Jan 6, 8:00 pm
Hounds of Winter
Trailside Music Hall, Ch’town
Calypso Secrets
Reequal Smith’s dance ensemble performs two shows at The Guild—Dec 5 & 12
Dancer and choreographer Reequal Smith (Oshun Dance Studios) presents Calypso Secrets at The Guild in Charlottetown December 5 and 12 from 9–10 pm.
Performed by an ensemble of four dancers, accompanied by a vocalist and drummer, Calypso Secrets incorporates a twist of Caribbean culture and diversity, highlighting the diverse talent of the dancers.
Reequal’s choreography fuses modern, jazz, African and funk styles, paired with live and recorded AfroCaribbean, Latin, funk, reggae and jazz music.
Smith created Oshun Dance, PEI’s only Black-owned dance company, to bring young women artists of all ethnicities together to find empowerment and to access outlets for creative expression through dance.
Thematically, the performance celebrates the power, beauty, sexuality and strength of women.
For tickets, call 620-3333, email boxoffice@theguildpei.com, or purchase in person at The Guild box office, 111 Queen Street, Charlottetown.
Bah! Humbug!
Bah, Humbug! Scrooge’s Christmas Carol will be on stage at The Guild in Charlottetown December 5 and 12 at 4 pm and 6:30 pm, December 6 and 13 at 2 pm, and December 11 at 7 pm.
Share the magic of this musical adaptation by Rebecca Ryland of a favourite Christmas classic. Bill Francoeur’s original music accompanies this retelling.
“Bah, Humbug!” Ebenezer sings, dooming himself to visits from three Christmas spirits. With the first ghost, he sees his sister Fanny as they sing “One Last Christmas.”
Next, Scrooge is taken to the home of his employee, Beth Cratchit, where Tiny Tim sings “God Bless Us, Everyone.”
WFinally, Scrooge watches as the entire town celebrates with “He’s Dead and Buried!”
Ebenezer’s revelation that “Life Was Meant to Live” brings a heart-warming conclusion to Dickens’s beloved tale.
Tickets available by phone at 6203333, or in person at The Guild box office, 111 Queen Street, Charlottetown.
Cocktails & Candy Canes
Charlottetown Musical Concerts and The Guild present the holiday musical theatre celebration, Cocktails & Candy Canes, with two performances per evening, 6 pm and 8:30 pm, December 21 and 22 at The Guild in Charlottetown.
Professional musical theatre talents kick it up in a festive evening of holiday song. One part simplicity, one part stylishly chic—shaken, not stirred. From sacred to scintillating, jazz to gospel and all musical styles in between, Cocktails & Candy Canes promises to entertain.
Cocktails & Candy Canes features professional musical theatre artists Jessica Burrett, Caroline Burton, Réjean Cournoyer, Jessica Gallant, Jacob Hemphill, Colin Kelly, Melissa MacKenzie, Brandon Roy, Luc Trottier, Emma Wright-Rudy and Christopher Wilson. Accompanied by Rachel O’Brien on piano.
Advanced tickets are recommended by calling 620-3333 or emailing boxoffice@theguildpei.com.
Amazing Tales of the Atlantic
Christmas in the Air
Amazing Tales of the Atlantic, a live radio play anthology series celebrating the unique residents of the Atlantic, will stage their fourth and final episode on December 23 at 8 pm, at The Guild in Charlottetown.
Amazing Tales of the Atlantic features three new chapters of the three ever-evolving tales: The DDT Detectives, The B’ylight Zone, and Anne of the Green Planet.
Admission at the door. Seats can be reserved in advance at 620-3333 or boxoffice@theguildpei.com. The Guild is located at 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Christmas in the Air—An Island Concert Through & Through continues until December 20 with performances at The Guild in Charlottetown, Kings Playhouse in Georgetown, and Victoria Playhouse in Victoria-by-the-Sea.
The concert presentation features some of the region’s favourite Christmas songs. Patrons will hear new arrangements of Christmas songs by Lennie Gallant, Rita MacNeil, Nancy White, David Myles, Suzie Wilde and Heather Rankin.
Musical Director for the show is Lisa MacDougall from Nova Scotia.
Another Sketchy Xmas
Holiday sketch comedy returns to The Guild—Dec 17 to 20
A Sketchy Xmas, first produced onstage by Charlottetown’s Sketch-22, is being rebooted and revamped by two of its original creators. Rob MacDonald and Graham Putnam, veterans of the improv group Popalopalots, are bringing Another Sketchy Xmas to The Guild in Charlottetown for four nights, from December 17 through December 20.
MacDonald describes the show as “A hilarious donkey ride to Bethlehem, tackling the story of the birth of baby Jesus.” Also included, adds Putnam, are “modern-day visits with a rough and tumble Charlottetown family as they learn the true meaning of Christmas.”
Irish playwright readings
The Benevolent Irish Society continues to host play readings at the Irish Cultural Centre in December with Eugene O’Neill reading Desire Under The Elms December 8 and Hugh Leonard reading Da on December 15.
Play readings take place from 7:30–9:30 pm, with a light snack provided at intermission. Tickets are available at the door. The Irish Cultural Centre is located at 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.
HA
Joining MacDonald and Putnam onstage is a large cast that features Melissa MacKenzie, Leonard MacPherson, Josh Weale, Benton Hartley, Kassinda Bulger, Dylan Miller, Marli Trecartin, Rory Starkman, Nathaniel Ing, Noah Nazim, Kelly Caseley, Cameron MacDonald, Jacob Rollwage, Jay Gallant, Keir Malone, Carly Martin, and a few surprises.
MacDonald promises that the show will be “irreverent, audacious, and undoubtedly a little bit sacrilegious. It’s the kind of silliness I think we all could enjoy right now.”
Another Sketchy Xmas is recommended for mature audiences. Showtime is 8 pm, with doors opening at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available at the door, in advance at The Guild Box Office, by calling 620-3333, or by emailing boxoffice@theguildpei.com.
The Guild is located at 111 Queen Street in Charlottetown.
Club Improv classes
HA Club will offer drop-in improv classes in December at the Haviland Club. Classes will be held on Wednesdays, December 2 and 9, with Improv Basics from 6–7:30 pm and Improv Advanced from 8–9:30 pm. To pre-book, send an email to lauriemurphy@marram.ca or call 960-1735.
The Haviland Club is located at 2 Haviland Street in Charlottetown.
Christmas dinner theatre
The Village musical acadien in AbramVillage will host a Christmas dinner theatre featuring the play Le Prix de Noël (The Price of Christmas) on December 2, 3 and 5 at 6:30 pm. Le Prix de Noël, written and directed by Eileen Pendergast, tells the story of how Mr. Basil, played by Blair Arsenault, found a convenient way to prepare for the holidays. He is not interested in the activity of collecting food in order to collect provisions for people in need. His wife Aline, played by Angela Pendergast-Arsenault, sees the preparations in a different way, and with several others—played by Michael, Robert, David, and Monique Pendergast—she is part of a group of carollers who will tour the surroundings while singing Christmas carols. Phil, played by Andy Doucette, is Basil’s nephew, and helps his uncle solve an unexpected problem.
Doors open at 6:15 pm. Purchase tickets online at villagemusical.ca.
January Buzz deadline Friday, December 11
Rob MacDonald (left) and Graham Putnam
MacMaster & Leahy
Fiddling couple presents virtual holiday show —Dec 5 & 6
Canada’s fiddling couple Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy present a virtual concert this December, inviting friends and fans to celebrate the holidays with their family. They have partnered with Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside and Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown to share this virtual concert on PEI.
“This Christmas season, our family is inviting the world to our home, virtually, to witness our music, life and preparation at Christmas time,” says Natalie MacMaster. “Mostly music, it will also include candid moments around the kitchen, decorating the tree, and other bits of Christmas chaos! We are excited to team up with local theatres to present this show.”
A portion from that ticket sale will go directly back to the selected theatre.
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy’s A Celtic Christmas—At Home tickets can be purchased online by visiting either Harbourfront Theatre’s or Confederation Centre’s website. Individuals can choose to help support either theatre by buying a ticket using that theatre’s unique purchase link.
James Mullinger
At The College of Piping—Jan 30
The Celtic Performing Arts Centre at The College of Piping in Summerside will bring comedian James Mullinger to the stage on January 30, 7:30 pm.
After almost a year of virtual gigs, Zoom shows, outdoor distanced events and Drive-in shows, Mullinger will
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy’s A Celtic Christmas—At Home can be watched online from the comfort of viewers’ homes on December 5 at 7:30 pm if purchased using Harbourfront’s unique link or on December 6 at 7:30 pm if purchased using Confederation Centre’s unique link. The show can then be watched anytime and as many times as the purchaser desires up until Christmas.
To learn more about this virtual event, visit harbourfronttheatre.com or confederationcentre.com.
return to the stage to share his unique insights about COVID-19 and why the Maritimes came out on top.
The British comedian was one of the UK’s top comedians and the Comedy Editor for GQ magazine when he moved to Canada in 2014. He has since sold out shows across the country, made appearances on CBC’s The Debaters, movies, television, festivals, award shows and stand up specials.
Limited seats are available. Call the box office at 436-5377 to book tickets. This is 14+ event. The Celtic Performing Arts Centre is located at 619 Water Street East in Summerside.
RED CHAIRS & FIRE PITS
November 20, 2020 - January 3, 2021
Wintertide Holiday Festival Calendar of Events Available Now!
Despite COVID-19, the spirit and sparkle of the Wintertide Holiday Festival is still alive in Charlottetown. Be sure to check out the calendar of activities and events at charlottetown.ca/wintertide
Wyatt’s Magic of Christmas
Wyatt Heritage Properties Inc. and Culture Summerside plan to deliver Christmas cheer through The Magic of Christmas at Wyatt Heritage Properties in December.
The program will celebrate the long-standing tradition of Christmas trees. The decorated evergreen tree is one of the most embraced traditions of Christmas. In the dark days of December people carry into their homes a fresh cut tree or pull from the storage space an artificial tree and begin decorating its boughs. Does the why of such a tradition even matter as comfort is secured from the warmth of the lights and decorations, and the smell of nature? Not really. The history of the Christmas tree is old and magical. However, changing times bring changes to the festive tree.
The rooms of the main floor at the 1867 Lefurgey Cultural Centre, one of the three Victorian homes that make-up Wyatt Heritage Properties on Prince Street in Summerside, will be having Christmas trees decorated in the styles of different time periods. Decorator Shelley Campbell will transform the boughs into works of art that tell the stories of what was happening and what mattered in different periods of history.
There will also be an exhibit of
winter and Christmas themed artworks by local artists for sale.
The public is invited to enjoy the magic of the trees and the house during The Magic of Christmas on December 10 from 4–8 pm and December 11 from 1–8 pm. Admission is by donation. Those wishing to attend are asked to register for a 30-minute time slot by calling 432-1296 or visiting Culture Summerside on FB or culturesummerside.com. Wear a mask and help keep everyone safe for the holidays.
Halifax Jazz Festival
The 35th Annual TD Halifax Jazz Festival (HJF) will take place July 13–18, 2021. Through multiple stages and programming streams, the TD HJF supports and ampliflies the musical talent on the East Coast, placing local artists alongside internationally acclaimed and award winning acts. Artist submissions for HJF 2021 are open to Jan 8. Artists can apply at bit. ly/2021Submissions.
TD HJF 2021 is contingent on the ever evolving situation with the current pandemic. halifaxjazzfestival.ca
Way up West by Jan
Cox
No fiddle on Sunday
Musician Danny Drouin has a new passion: recording
recently when someone said, “Well, there’ll be no fiddle on Sunday or no bass on Saturday.”
“There’s a song there,” Drouin thought. “So I wrote about a fiddler who always played at church on Sundays. He passed away—no fiddle on Sunday. That’s how it happens. Sometimes the lyrics are first, sometimes the music hits me first. I prefer mornings to write. When inspiration hits, I’m alone. Sometimes I just need 10 minutes. I might stumble on a weird guitar lick or a chord structure I like, I just go with it,” he explais.
Drouin started playing guitar over 25 years ago and began writing seriously in 2016. “I was tired of playing in cover bands, in bar rooms, being a side man. I got serious,” he said. (Although in 2019, he did receive Music PEI’s Cover Artist of the Year award.)
In 2017, Drouin started recording his own music in his home. “I had no experience,” he shares. “Just a program and a computer—I taught myself. I would send my wife and kids upstairs when I was recording. They had to be so quiet! And no one could come over. It didn’t take long for them to get fed up, so I bought a small building and moved it onto my land.”
Another local musician, Robert Jones, was one of Drouin’s first customers. “Robert really encouraged me to go for it,” he said. “Now a dozen or more artists have used my services, and I get calls from all over the Island. I did a lot of experimenting, everything is computerized. Man, that ol’ mouse moves pretty quick!”
time with Drouin from her husband as a birthday present. “I’m one of the guinea pigs,” Lisa explains. “I always wanted to make my own CD.”
Luckily, she was recording the day I was meeting with Drouin, and I was treated to one of her original songs, “Irish Gold Rush at the ‘gash,” a heartfelt song about Irish moss gathering in Miminegash. “I’m lovin’ it,” Lisa said. “I was timid at first, but Danny made it so welcoming here. I’m really relaxed.”
Drouin would like to make recording his full time job at some point. It has become his passion.
You can catch him performing with local musicians at the Mill River Resort, December 5, 12, 18 and 19, at 7 pm. He is also looking forward to his upcoming solo show on January 14 at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown.
“Man, this is big for me,” Danny admits. “So much talent has gone through that place.”
Local musician Danny Drouin was trying to coordinate a jam
Lisa Carragher received her recording
JAN COX
CITY CINEMA DE C 2020
Mank
Nov 30–Dec 3
PG, Language may offend, substance abuse. Dir: David Fincher, US, 2020, 131 min. Gary Oldman, Amanda Seyfried, Charles Dance.
The story behind the man who wrote Citizen Kane. "The arguments over whether Citizen Kane is the greatest film ever made will rage on forever. But the greatest film about Citizen Kane - and just about any other movie - has definitely arrived. David Fincher’s eleventh film is a lavish love letter to old Hollywood in all its glory, cynicism and wild extravagance. It’s crafted with the kind of monochromatic elegance that begs to be soaked up on the big screen." - Phil de Semlyen, Time Out. "Mank has the makings of an Oscar contender... Shot in black and white to breathtakingly evoke the 1930s, the film cleverly adopts a time-hopping format intended to approximate the structure of the movie at its core. In the eye of the storm sits Oldman's Herman J. Mankiewicz... The movie finds a recuperating Mankiewicz hidden away in the middle of nowhere, on a tight deadline to finish the Kane script for 20-something auteur Orson Welles... Using typed-out script notes to set up scenes, the flashbacks
are awash in Hollywood lore... Mank effortlessly conveys all that showbiz history in a breezily entertaining package." - Brian Lowry, CNN
The Prom
Dec 4–10
Rating TBA, likely PG. Dir: Ryan Murphy, US, 2020, 131 min. Meryl Streep, James Corden, Nicole Kidman.
A troupe of hilariously self-obsessed theater stars swarm into a small conservative Indiana town in support of a high school girl who wants to take her girlfriend to the prom. Based on the hit Broadway show with 7 Tony nominations and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical.
Advance Tickets
Our new website citycinema.ca is live. We now accept all major credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema. Seating is limited—advance tickets are strongly recommend.
Limited Seating
We’re selling a reduced amount of our 70 seats per show, with checkerboard seat arrangement for distancing.
One-way Traffic System
To help with social distancing we created a one-way traffic system, just follow the arrows!
Masks
Please wear a mask when not eating your delicious popcorn. We have paper masks available free.
Subject to change
Film availability and provincial COVID guidelines are subject to change. Check our website on the day of the show.
Rent City Cinema
City Cinema is available for rent for private film viewings! We provide the projectionist and will have the the canteen and bar open for your group. Info/rates: chtownfilm@gmail.com.
The Charlottetown Christmas Festival Presents:
National
Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
Dec 6, 2 pm
PG, coarse language. Tickets are $4 (Child) and $6 (Adult). Dir: Jeremiah Chechik, US, 1989, 97min. Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Randy Quaid.
Clark Griswold, the well-intentioned, walking disaster who has dragged his family through the horrors of traveling in two previous National Lampoon Vacation films, has decided to stay home for the holidays - and the neighborhood will never be the same.
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Dec 11–15
14A, language, sexual content, brief violence. Dir: George C. Wolfe, US, 2020, 94 min.Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, Glynn Turman.
Tensions and temperatures rise over the course of an afternoon recording session in 1920s Chicago as a band of musicians await trailblazing performer, the legendary 'Mother of the Blues,' Ma Rainey (Academy Award® winner Viola Davis). Late to the session, the fearless, fiery Ma engages in a battle of wills with her white manager and producer over control of her music. As the band waits in the studio’s claustrophobic rehearsal room, ambitious trumpeter Levee (Chadwick Boseman) - who has an eye for Ma’s girlfriend and is determined to stake his own claim on the music industry - spurs his fellow musicians into an eruption of stories, truths and lies that will forever change the course of their lives. Adapted from two-time Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson’s play, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom celebrates the transformative power of the blues and the artists who refuse to let society’s prejudices dictate their worth.
The Charlottetown Christmas Festival Presents:
The Polar Express
Dec 13, 2 pm
G. Tickets are $4 (Child) and $6 (Adult) Dir: Robert Zemeckis, US, 2004, 100 min. Tom Hanks, Nona Gaye, Peter Scolari.
It doesn't matter where the train is going. What matters is deciding to get on. Late on Christmas Eve, after the town has gone to sleep, a boy boards the mysterious train that waits for him - The Polar Express.
The Midnight Sky
Dec 16–21
Rating TBA, likely 14A. Dir: George Clooney, US, 2020, 122 min. George Clooney, Felicity Jones, Kyle Chandler.
This post-apocalyptic tale follows
a
scientist in the
as he
to stop Sully and her fellow astronauts from returning home to a mysterious global catastrophe. Clooney directs the adaptation of Lily Brooks-Dalton’s acclaimed novel Good Morning, Midnight.
Gremlins
Dec 19–2 pm
PG. Dir: Joe Dante, US, 1984, 106 min. Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton.
With its Christmas lights and dusting of snow, Kingston Falls is an idyllic small town - until the gremlins take over. A father returns from Chinatown with an unusual pet, a Mogwai - a gift for his son. The rules are simple: Keep your Mogwai away from water, bright lights and, most importantly, never - never - feed him after midnight!
Augustine,
lonely
Arctic,
races
A Christmas Story
Dec 20, 2 pm
PG. Dir: Bob Clark, US, 1983, 95 min. Peter Billingsley, Melinda Dillon, Darren McGavin.
It's the final days before Christmas in early 1940s Cleveland, and 9-year-old Ralphie wants one thing from Santa more than anything else: A Red Ryder Carbine Action Air Rifle. As he trudges through the snow to school, faces the neighborhood bully and visits a malevolent department store Santa Claus, Ralphie connives, conspires and campaigns for the most fabulous Christmas present ever in this heartwarming, hysterical and sweetly nostalgic holiday film. Based on stories by Jean Sheppard.
The Last Vermeer
Dec 26–31
PG, violence, coarse language. Dir: Dan Friedkin, US, 2020, 117 min. Guy Pearce, Claes Bang, Daan Aufenacker, Vicky Krieps.
"The end of the Second World War marked the end of a long, arduous road for millions of soldiers on both sides of the conflict. But for some, the fall of Hitler's Third Reich was just the beginning of their mission. When Captain Joseph Hiller was tasked with bringing to justice the man who stole a painting by Vermeer and sold it to the Nazis, he thought it would be relatively straightforward. What he never imagined was that he would be defending the innocence of an art forger named Han Van Meegeren (Guy Pearce), a man so brilliant and yet so devious that he was able to dupe not only the Nazis' upper ranks, but the art world's most seasoned experts as well. The resulting tale about this little-known chapter in history proves authentically engaging, a worthy addition to the pantheon of post-war movies." - Ben MK, The Reel Roundup
Welcome to City Cinema from The Charlottetown Film Society.
City Cinema is owned and operated by our non-profit Society. We will continue to present a diverse mix of films and welcome your suggestions and support. Become a member, bring friends, share feedback!
City Cinema and The Charlottetown Film Society would like to recognize our partnership with Film Circuit, presented by TIFF. For more information see www.tiff.net/filmcircuit
Ammonite
Jan 1–3 & 7–9
14A, nudity, sexual content.
Dir: Francis Lee, UK/Australia, 2020, 120 min. Kate Winslet, Saoirse Ronan, Gemma Jones.
"Rustling petticoats, windswept beaches, two awakened women in love: The bare outlines of Ammonite - starring Kate Winslet as the real-life 19th-century paleontologist Mary Anning and Saoirse Ronan as the pale-eyed beauty who captures her heart - sound a lot like last year's sensational French import Portrait of a Lady on Fire. But Lee's bracing romantic drama is its own fierce animal: a movie nearly as steeped in the wonders of natural world as it is in the emotional lives of its uncommon characters. As the story opens, Winslet's Mary seems easily as flinty and inflexible as her beloved samples - the Jurassic bones and ancient whorls whose imprints she pulls from the stones that line the shores of her native Lyme Regis, England. Far removed from the clubby, almost entirely male experts in her field, she has little time and even less patience for anything beyond her research and the basic upkeep of the modest home she shares with her elderly mother. So, when an aristocratic dabbler from London appears on Mary's doorstep, eager to learn more of her work, he brings unwelcome disruption to her daily routines. But he also brings his wife: a lovely, wilting lily named Charlotte; the Lyme air will do her 'melancholia' good; he believes. And the money he's willing to leave for her care will pay Mary's bills far better than the cheap trinkets she cobbles together for tourists to make ends meet. There's an austerity to the film - long shots of stone and candlelight, clipped dialogue that can feel rigorous, almost grim. But Lee is only building a richer kind of mood, and priming the canvas for his actresses, who reward that faith with remarkable performances: Winslet, raw-nerved and ferocious beneath her reticence; Ronan a slow-blooming, stealthier force. Much will undoubtedly be made of two explicit love scenes, happening as they do between two famous female movie stars; like its coiled seashell muse, though, Ammonite finds its beauty in the whole, not the parts." - Leah Greenblatt, Entertainment Weekly
CITY CINEMA TIMETABLE
DECEMBER
Mank Mank Mank The Prom The Prom ...Vacation The Prom The Prom The Prom The Prom The Prom Ma Rainey... Ma Rainey... Ma Rainey... Polar Express Ma Rainey... Ma Rainey... Ma Rainey... Midnight Sky
Midnight Sky
Midnight Sky Gremlins
Midnight Sky
Christmas Story
Midnight Sky
Midnight Sky
Happy Holidays
Happy Holidays
Happy Holidays Happy Holidays Last Vermeer Last Vermeer Last Vermeer Last Vermeer Last Vermeer Last Vermeer
Film Fest Wrap
The 6th Annual Charlottetown Film Festival (ChFF20), which took place in October, showcased close to 60 works from all four Atlantic provinces— both via online streaming and at City Cinema. For Island filmmakers, the biggest impact of the pandemic was completing productions.
The Film4Ward funding program was hard hit. Only Trilby Jeeves’ family drama The Rolling Pin, was ready to be screened at ChFF20.
Luckily, other Island filmmakers helped fill the gap with short works reflecting these challenging times—notably Mille Clarkes’ Love In Quarantine via the NFB and Dom Girouard’s Self (Isolation) series.
ChFF20 proved that Island storytellers can cover it all, and the sector is truly developing on PEI.
Young Island talents like William Wright and Shane Pendergast also submitted accomplished works, and Islander-by-choice filmmakers like Shannon Shura continue to create.
Adam Perry’s much-anticipated thriller A Small Fortune (still in post) indicates that the film community on PEI is maturing and gaining skills. A Small Fortune is by a filmmaker who stayed here, against all-odds. “This feature is likely to put PEI on the map as a fresh, visually-stunning location for productions,” says Cheryl Wagner, ChFF Executive Director.
now accept credit cards online and both debit and credit at the
citycinema.ca
“Developing skills in our local talent is a bedrock principal of the Charlottetown Film Festival, and this year we offered four Industry Sessions via Zoom to bring experts to PEI,“ explains Wagner. “Topics covered were Casting without an Agent: Tips, Tricks, True Stories; International Discoverability through Telefilm Canada; Puppets Up for the Screen: Tips on Performing, Writing, Directing and Producing; and Open For Business: Attracting Out-ofProvince Productions.”
The industry sessions are available through the ChFF website: charlottetownfilmfestival.com.
Trilby Jeeves’ film The Rolling Pin screened at the 2020 Charlottetown Film Festival
news ART
Eptek scavenger hunt
Eptek Art & Culture Centre is offering exhibit related scavenger hunts for youth. Drop-ins are welcome but folks are encouraged to call ahead. Eptek Art & Culture Centre is a site of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation and is located at 130 Heather Moyse Dr, S’side. Admission by donation. 888-8373, peimuseum.com
Festive wreath contest
The annual Friends of Confederation Centre Festive Wreath Exhibition will be on display until Dec 19 at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Ch’town. Prizes are awarded for each category: children solo, children group, traditional, green living (recycled items), and off the wall. Info: 628-6141 or friends@confederationcentre.com
Membership with TTIS
In consideration of the economic impact of COVID-19 on artists, this town is small (TTIS) has waived their membership fees for the 2020-21 year. To become a member, email this.town.is.small@gmail.com.
Winter art workshops
Art classes and after school programs continue at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown. Painting with Amy, featuring a holiday-themed paint night will take place Dec 3. All ages welcome and materials will be provided. After school art workshops for kids continue on Tue to Dec 15 with Amy MacConnell leading the class in creating holiday crafts.
BIS Christmas Tea and Fair
The Benevolent Irish Society will host their 3rd Annual Christmas Tea and Fair on December 6 from 12:30–6:30 pm at the Irish Cultural Centre, 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown. Admission is by donation.
Gallery @ The Guild
Damien Worth art
this town is small presents solo exhibit—Dec 8 to Jan 4
this town is small and The Guild present a solo exhibition of new paintings by Damien Worth. The Cusp exhibit will be on view December 8 to January 4 at The Gallery @ The Guild in Charlottetown. The series of work explores new approaches to depicting landscape in times of transition. Worth notes that, “Landscape painting has a lot of historical baggage and I’m ok with that. But I try to avoid the idyllic and instead favour the turbulent. I think the thresholds where worlds collide can be adequate metaphors for current social, political,
and economic struggles. These paintings refer to situations where pressure builds to a point of inevitable release.”
The exhibition’s title “The Cusp” refers to this precarious lip’s edge. Damien Worth’s work has been exhibited in national and international venues and his paintings are in permanent collections at the Rooms provincial art bank in Newfoundland, the University of New Brunswick Art Centre, and the Confederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown.
The Gallery @ The Guild is located at 111 Queen Street in Charlottetown.
@billspotting
Retrospective exhibit at Receiver—Dec 14 to Feb 1
this town is small presents @billspotting—A Retrospective, an exhibition curated by Max Knechtel, on view December 14 to February 1 at Receiver Coffee Co. in Charlottetown.
@billspotting collected and shared digital images of local public figure Bill McFadden throughout 2019 until his passing in 2020.
Christmas in the Villages
The Christmas in the Villages 2020 celebration and sale will take place December 4 from 7–9 pm and December 5 from 9 am–3 pm at several venues in the area of Murray Harbour and Murray River.
The annual holiday event will showcase a variety of creations and products from local artisans, farmers and community organizations.
Follow Christmas in the Villages 2020 on FB for details including the lighting of the Fishermen’s tree on December 4 and the updated list of confirmed vendors and venues.
While it started with project creator and curator Max Knechtel’s daily encounters, McFadden’s frequent escapades were inevitably captured by the wider community, and a steady stream of paparazzi-style contributions were shared via Instagram.
The exhibition at Receiver will display various @billspotting images and other iconic Bill works, serving as a lighthearted glimpse of a brief period in the large life of one of Charlottetown’s most enigmatic and eclectic figures.
The original collection project can be viewed in full through @billspotting on Instagram.
Receiver Coffee Co. is located at 128 Richmond Street in Charlottetown.
New art lending program
Wyatt Heritage Properties Inc (WHPI) in partnership with Culture Summerside and the Summerside Rotary Library have launched a new art lending program.
An objective of WHPI and Culture Summerside, the arts, heritage and culture division of the City of Summerside, is to bring to the community increased accessibility to original works of art by local visual artists. Not everyone is comfortable visiting an art gallery or can afford the luxury of owning original works. Now, with a swipe of a library card, people can borrow artwork to grace their living space.
As part of the 2020 Summerside Arts Festival, held in July, twenty local artists each created a 5 x 7 original
work for the new program. The artwork includes a variety of mediums and subject matter that will appeal to a wide spectrum of tastes. The collection will continue to over the coming years.
One of many daily encounters with Bill McFadden—a man of many hats.
A gift of Island Poetry
MAKING THE SKY
Wet the sky thoroughly right down to the treeline. Wrap it round the strait. First add the brightness, leaving either nothing or a light blue or yellow, and into this the darker blue, grey, leaving places for the light behind the sky to shine through. A treeline may go next, running a little into the sky. Add scratches to hold the extra pigment that says this is a different state of matter. Add the water last, dry, so the light sparkles over it, so that the strait reflects the sky but is not the sky.
Judy Gaudet. Conversations with Crows (Oberon Press) and 150+ Canada’s History in Poetry (Acorn Press, 2018) are two of Judy’s most recent collections.
Deirdre Kessler selects a poem a month by an Island poet for The Buzz
Mayoff novel now an ebook
Steven Mayoff’s first novel Our Lady of Steerage, published in 2015 by the late James Munves (Bunim & Bannigan), is now available as an ebook through the distributor Smashwords.
Our Lady of Steerage is an intergenerational saga with a non-linear narrative that moves back and forth between four different timelines: 1923, 1936, 1949 and 1962. Nineteen-year old Mariasse runs away from her home in Kraków, Poland to sail to Canada. During the voyage she meets a Jewish couple who recently lost their young son but are traveling with their infant daughter, Dvorah. Betye, the mother, cannot bring herself to care for her living child, so Mariasse takes charge of Dvorah for the duration of the trip, earning her the nickname “Our Lady of Steerage Class.” This begins a lifelong relationship, defined by a recurring cycle of rescue and betrayal, where Mariasse and Dvorah find themselves continuously in and out of each others’ lives.
Our Lady of Steerage is available at most ebook retailers or directly from Smashwords at smashwords.com.
Musical reading
Debut author Kimberly Mooney has teamed up with Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown for a musical book reading of The Recital, a sonata of broken hearts, blended family and pinot grigio, December 20 at 8 pm.
Mooney will share her mindset on how to forgive hurt to ensure a healthy family from two homes after a divorce. She takes you on her emotional journey toward a peaceful blended family.
The show will feature book readings and musical performances by The Good Ol’ Boys, Lawrence Maxwell, Kelley Mooney, Katie McGarry, Justyn Young, Larry Koughan and Kimberly Mooney Koughan.
Doors at 6:30 pm. Reading at 8 pm. Tickets available at trailside.ca Trailside Music Hall is located at 155 Kent Street, Charlottetown.
READERS / WRITERS
Eptek Centre Book Club
The members of the Eptek Centre Book Club in S’side will meet Dec 3 at 7 pm to discuss the book Where’d You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple. Contact Eptek Centre or the book club organizers to register for this free event. Eptek Art & Culture Centre is located at 130 Heather Moyse Dr in S’side. 888-8373, peimuseum.com
Outdoor library program
Public libraries are offering StoryWalks® as a fun and safe alternative to regular library programming so families can read and exercise together. English and French children’s storybooks will be displayed and rotated across parks in PEI to promote literacy and physical activity. This project is made possible with support from TD Bank and the PEI Writer’s Guild. To find out where StoryWalks® will be, follow the PEI Public Library Service on social media or visit the PEI Public Library service website.
BOOKS PEI
A Girl, Her Mother, and The Forest: A Love Story
Virginia McGowan
Author Virginia (Ginny) McGowan launched her first children’s book, A Girl, Her Mother, and The Forest: A Love Story, in November.
In this melodic eco-fable, a girl and her mother live in harmony with the forest and its creatures. But what happens when villagers from a nearby valley destroy their environment and come to the forest?
This story came to McGowan in a dream and explores through allegory a relationship with the natural world that is possible. The book has full-colour original illustrations by Newfoundland artist Bev Middleton on every page.
Published by Nana’s Press, the book is available from major booksellers or direct from the author.
Dark | Sanctuary
D.A. Stewart and Sandy Carruthers
PEI’s Sandstone comics are making their first foray into the horror genre with the release of Dark|Sanctuary, a collaboration between writer D.A. Stewart and artist Sandy Carruthers.
Dark|Sanctuary tells the story of teenage runaway Cassie who finds a secret society online offering shelter to runaways like herself. With her father on her trail, Cassie soon discovers that the seemingly benevolent force behind Sanctuary masks an ancient—and deadly—evil.
Carruthers is well known in comic book circles as the original illustrator of the Men in Black comics, and Stewart has been a contributor to The Buzz from its first issue in 1995 though to 2020. In March of this year, Stewart released Monster Man: Tales of the Uncanny by Dave Stewart, his first collection of short horror stories.
Sandstone Comics, an indie publisher, was established in 2019, and is operated by Sandy Carruthers and Robert Doan. Their roster includes Sandstone Comics Presents, featuring the work of Carruthers, Doan, and original co-founder Gregory Webster,
Doan’s Indestructible, Carruthers’ Century Man, Brad Seymours’ Glory Bound, and now, Dark|Sanctuary Dark|Sanctuary, as well as the other titles in Sandstone Comics’ line, can be purchased at sandstonecomics.com and at local comic shops.
Mysie
Norbert Stewart
At the age of eight, Marjorie “Mysie” MacDonald, with her parents and five siblings, arrived at Scotch Settlement, New Brunswick on November 25,
1836—one family in a group of 40 Gaelic speaking families from the Isle of Skye, Scotland. The wind was howling from the northwest, the temperature was well below freezing and there was snow on the ground. Contrary to what they were promised, there was no log cabin in which to live and no cleared land, food or dry firewood—just 100 acres of cold, dark forest. Forty-eight of their group died of starvation, hypothermia and other diseases before the spring of 1837. But Mysie survived the unsurvivable.
This novel is a legacy to Mysie’s courageous Scottish spirit, strength of determination and unshakable faith.
Mysie was written by Norbert Stewart of Charlottetown and printed by Syntrak Print & Graphics Inc. Copies are available at the Bookmark in downtown Charlottetown.
GIFt Horse: Episode III—Revenge of the GIFt PEI GIFted Genre Writing Group
The Island’s weirdest genre writers are back with GIFt Horse: Episode III—Revenge of the GIFt, the third short story anthology from the PEI GIFted Genre Writing Group.
From killer cowboys to badass halflings to modern fables, imagination roams when genre writers suffer through winter (and a pandemic) in Canada’s smallest province.
Revenge of the GIFt was launched in November and features the work of Matthew Sherman, Ryan Gallant, John-Ross Fitzpatrick, Shane Colin Mountain, Katie Mac, Jennifer Platts-Fanning, Chris Wilson, Nicola Lewis Kemp, Tanya Nicolle and Justin O’Hanley.
Although the pandemic threw a wrench in their monthly in-person meetings, PEI GIFted Genre Writing Group persevered with their annual anthology. That perseverance paid off for four of the groups’ writers who received awards for their short stories this year. Gallant’s short story “MVP” won the PEI Writers’ Guild’s Battle Tales short story contest.
Wilson’s short story took first place in the Island Literary Awards Maritime Electric Short Story Award, with Mac winning second place and Platts-Fanning winning third place in that category.
Edited by Gallant with Katie Mac and Chris Wilson, and artwork by Tyler Landry, Revenge of the GIFt is available on Amazon at bit.ly/revengeGIFt.
Twitch, the Dog who Loved Carrots
Margaret A. Westlie
Illustrated by Terry D. Betts
Selkirk Stories Publishing has released a new children’s picture book, Twitch, the Dog who Loved Carrots, a collaboration between PEI author Margaret A. Westlie of Meadowbank and PEI artist Terry D. Betts of Peakes.
Twitch is a Shih Tzu who enjoys napping in the shade of the porch and playing in the yard. Twitch cannot resist the smell of fresh carrots and when he discovers a way to steal carrots from the neighbour’s garden, his mischief goes undetected until his owner finds a solution—a carrot as a reward for being a good dog.
Intended for beginner readers, the story teaches that actions have consequences and good behaviour brings rewards. It also presents a loving relationship between a parent and a child (represented in this case by the dog), as well as friendly relationships between neighbours, whose differences are settled by conversation and compromise.
The story of Twitch is based on Westlie’s own dog, also named Twitch. The playful and colourful illustrations by Terry D. Betts bring the story to life.
Twitch, the Dog who Loved Carrots is available online and at PEI bookstores.
Here and There
Roderick MacDonald
Roderick MacDonald will launch Here and There, his new collection of poetry, at the Morell Fire Hall December 5 at 2 pm.
Inspired by the places, people and sounds around his hometown of Morell, PE, MacDonald pens lyrical poetry that nourishes his reflective nature. Especially inspired by the shoreline, MacDonald evokes feelings and memories of Island days spent whiling away at the beach, breathing in the salty air and listening to
the sound of the waves. He also writes about many aspects of the Island way of life throughout the seasons—from a rainy, spring day to the experience of sharing pint of beer with a friend.
Born in the UK, MacDonald is a 35-year PEI resident and is retired from a career in the alternative education system. Depending on the season, he can be found snowshoeing or bicycling through the countryside that inspires so much of his writing. He lives in Morell with his wife and cat. In the summer he divides his time between the village and his cottage, five kilometres away.
The poetry of MacDonald’s collection Here and There will resonate with both Islanders and those who love PEI. The book is available at acornpress.ca
Jaya’s Magic Wheelchair
Marlene Bryenton
Illustrator Leanne Bowlan
Author Marlene Bryenton recently published her second children’s storybook, Jaya’s Magic Wheelchair.
The book is about empathy, inclusion, awareness
and physiotherapy. Sparkle is a magical character who has a very special talent and helps Jaya explore her world. The story comes to life with illustrations by Leanne Bowlan.
Bryenton believes that a child can learn from another child’s experience and hopes her story will provide opportunities for dialogue about people who use wheelchairs.
The book will soon be distributed at Jaya’s school in Surrey, BC, where she lives, and thousands of copies of have already been distributed to students across PEI. Jaya’s Magic Wheelchair and Bryenton’s first children’s storybook, Anna’s Pink and Purple Glasses, have been translated in French and will be distributed to French students across the Island soon.
Jaya’s Magic Wheelchair was edited by Judy Parsons and formatted by Chris Wilkinson. Copies are available in Charlottetown at Sherwood Drug Mart, Proude’s Shoes, Bookmark and Indigo, and at The Handcrafted House in Stratford.
marlenebryenton.com
Puggy Joe’s Christmas Stocking
Katherine MacCallum
Author Katherine MacCallum recently published her book, Puggy Joe’s Christmas Stocking.
The Christmas childrens’ book is illustrated by Bobby MacCallum and published in Charlottetown by First Glance Publishing.
MacCallum grew up in her grandparent’s house with her grandparents, mother and siblings. One of her favourite memories is waking up on Christmas morning. Set in the 1950’s, the story is based on her grandfather’s annual tradition of creating drama and keeping the children’s interest while looking inside his Christmas stocking on Christmas morning.
Puggy Joe’s Christmas Stocking is available at Owls Hollow and Bookmark in Charlottetown, or by contacting Katherine MacCallum at kat111007@hotmail. com or 566-3241.
Farmers Helping Farmers
Farmers Helping Farmers (FHF) need support for their annual 2020 Holiday Campaign fundraiser. There is a new urgency to this year’s campaign since major fundraisers were cancelled due to COVID-19. FHF is in year two of four of the More Food, Better Food: Empowering Kenyan Women Farmers project which will improve food security and nutrition for hundreds of farm families in rural communities near Meru, Kenya. As part of the project, all contributions will be multiplied five times with support from Global Affairs Canada. The campaign’s gift options include vegetable grow bags, airtight bags to store maize and beans, seeds for a garden, a solar light for children to study at night, a fuel saving stove with chimney, a rainwater storage tank for clean water, establishing and supporting a vegetable garden for a school, or any general donation. Donors will receive a card in time for Christmas for donations received by Dec 15. Visit farmershelpingfarmers.ca for the entire list of gift suggestions and to make a donation.
Fridays for Future
The PEI Fridays for Future Climate Action Group holds a Fridays for Future Climate Rally every Fri from 3:30–4:30 pm in front of Province House in Ch’town. The gathering is a call for political leaders to take drastic meaningful action to address the climate emergency and do their part to transform the economy from dependence on fossil fuels to using only clean renewable energy. Join in solidarity with the youth led #FridaysForFuture movement founded by Greta Thunberg in 2018. The group gathers to express love for humanity and concern for the future. All are welcome. Signs are available.
Youth mentors needed
Celebrate the holiday season by giving back. Sign up to be a Big Brother, Big Sister or Big Couple with Big Brothers Big Sisters of PEI. Spend time doing things friends do: biking, hiking, baking, watching movies, etc. Help build a child’s self-esteem, provide guidance and have fun. Info: 569-5437, info@bbbspei. ca, bbbspei.ca
go!PEI online programming
go!PEI, a community-based healthy living initiative managed by Recreation PEI, has relaunched their live online programming campaign, go!Liveathome. The free program offers a variety of online physical activity sessions to keep Islanders active from the comfort of their own homes. The sessions are led by Island instructors in a private Facebook group setting and require little to no equipment. Weekly activities include yoga, cardio, senior’s fitness, dance and strength training. For an up-to-date schedule, activity updates, and to take part in the live sessions, request to join go!Liveathome on Facebook.
Online grief support
Online grief support groups are held every third Thur of each month (Dec 17) at 7 pm. Facilitated by Social Worker
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Blanche Ward and Liz Parsons, Hospice PEI Grief Support Coordinator. The drop-in sessions are held online via Zoom. To register, contact Liz at 438-4231 for the login and password. First time Zoom users welcome. Technical support can be arranged a few days before the session. One on one grief support Hospice volunteers are also available for private phone conversations.
Online wellness program
A new online wellness program is encouraging Islanders with chronic disease to get active during the pandemic. The free program allows Islanders to participate from the comfort of their own homes. Each group will have its own webinar-style offering and participants will take part in safe exercise activities, prescription tailored to a specific disease. The initial six weekly sessions of the program will provide an introduction to exercise, with two transition sessions in the following two months to support participants as they move to being active independently. The program also helps participants learn more about medications, the effect of exercise on a disease, and evidence-based best practices. Katie Beck of Beck Exercise Physiology will run the program provincially. She is certified to provide exercise prescription to people with chronic and complex medical conditions and has a subspecialty in exercise oncology. To register, visit beckexercisephysiology.ca. Questions can be asked by email to exerciseforhealth@beckexercisephysiology.ca.
PEI Senior Islanders awards
Nominations for the PEI Senior Islanders of the Year awards will be accepted until Dec 16. The annual awards recognize significant contributions in several areas such as volunteerism, fitness and recreation, fundraising, community involvement, education, and this year, leadership and service to others during the pandemic. For more information and to nominate someone, call 1-866-7700588, email seniors@gov.pe.ca or visit princeedwardisland.ca/seniors-award to download the form.
Workforce funding
Government is seeking proposals from organizations on how they can help Islanders impacted by COVID-19 transition into or return to the workforce. The COVID-19 Workforce Integration Fund will support innovative projects from organizations that help Islanders gain skills and knowledge so they can find long lasting jobs, advance their careers and access entrepreneurship opportunities. Proposals under the fund should support people most highly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Each approved project will receive up to 100 percent funding for eligible costs to a maximum of $500,000. The deadline for proposals is Dec 4 at 2 pm. princeedwardisland.ca
Sociable Singles
PEI Sociable Singles is a non-profit, non-denominational, social group. Members are 40+. The group provides the separated, divorced, widowed and unmarried with an opportunity to participate in healthy group and social activities such as dances, potlucks, movies, walks/hikes, card games, dining, bbqs, games nights and more. Sociable Singles is not a dating club. Meet and Greet Socials are held weekly on Mon at 7 pm. West Royalty Community Centre, 1 Kirkdale Rd, Rm 6, Ch’town. sociable_ singles@yahoo.com, sites.google.com/ site/peisociablesingles
Active Transportation Fund
The Active Transportation Fund (AT Fund) was announced in late 2019 as part of the Sustainable Transportation Action Plan. The AT Fund helps build new walking and bike paths, install paved road shoulders and better connect existing walking and cycling trails to improve and grow PEI’s active transportation network. The AT Fund is part of a five-year program that will provide $5 million per year for active transportation projects across PEI. Communities, groups and municipalities are encouraged to apply for 2021 project funding before Dec 4. princeedwardisland.ca
Fertility Support Program
A new funding program will provide financial assistance to Islanders as they navigate through their fertility journey. Effective Jan 1, the Fertility Support Program will provide funding to Islanders who are accessing in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI) and associated medications at out-of-province clinics. The program will provide a minimum of $5000 and up to $10,000 annually, based on family income, for eligible expenses associated with IUI and/or IVF. An individual can access maximum annual funding for up to three years.
Innovation PEI funding
Innovation PEI has temporarily increased funding to eight programs to support PEI businesses impacted by COVID-19. The programs that are being adjusted focus on business investment in the areas of planning, capital investments, marketing and promotion activities, and include: Capital Acquisition; Small Business Investment Grant; Information Technology Planning; Information Technology Implementation; Human Resources Planning; Human Resources Implementation; Marketing Assistance; and Web Presence Assistance. Increases to the programs will be in effect until Mar 31. innovationpei.com
Prevent sexual harassment
The PEI Human Rights Commission (PEI HRC) has launched Shift, a fiveyear project fully funded by the Dept
of Justice Canada. Through workshops, education and resource materials, Shift aims to prevent and address sexual harassment in Island workspaces, and strives toward an Island-wide understanding of the issue. Registration is open for two upcoming free workshops. The Big Picture: A post-#Metoo Workplace takes place Dec 1 and 7 at 1 pm, and Dec 3 at 9:30 am. Topics include the scope of the problem of sexual harassment, how to clearly identify it, and understanding its impact on the workplace. Let’s Talk: Prevention and Responses for Workplace Sexual Harassment workshops take place Dec 9 at 1 pm, and Dec 11 and 14 at 9:30 am. This workshop will lead to action. Participants will learn requirements and their responsibilities to establish and maintain a safe workplace, practical advice on how to deal with the reporting and investigating of sexual harassment complaints, tips for restoring productivity after a sexual harassment incident, and resources available in the community. The two hour workshops are offered virtually and are designed for employers, managers, or anyone in HR. Register in advance by sending an e-mail to wshp@ peihumanrights.ca.
Environmental awards
Nominations are open for the environmental awards recognizing Islanders who make outstanding contributions to protecting and enhancing PEI’s environment. There are three award categories: individual, organization and school. Nominations are open until Jan 15. Submit online at princeedwardisland.ca or phone 368-5024. To be eligible for an award, the individual, organization or school must be instrumental in identifying, reducing, solving or avoiding an environmental problem; demonstrating consistently responsible environmental management practices; and/or promoting public awareness, understanding and active concern for the protection and enhancement of the environment. The review committee will also consider the nominees’ long-term service and commitment, voluntary contributions and innovative approaches. Schools are eligible for a financial award of $3000 to further support their environmental learning. Award recipients will be chosen by a review committee composed of members of the Environmental Advisory Council.
Electric vehicle parking
The province has approved regulations under the Highway Traffic Act so that electric vehicle parking and charging stations can be more visible to Islanders. The new signage regulations are a positive step in providing Islanders with clarity around where electric vehicle parking spots are located and who can use them. Businesses and organizations can also create their own branded signage under the regulations. The province encourages Islanders to be aware and not take a parking space that is meant for an electric vehicle. People who park a non-electric vehicle in a charging spot will potentially face fines. Encouraging the use of electric vehicles is part of the Sustainable Transportation Action Plan. Supporting more sustainable transportation in PEI will help Islanders lower their impact on the environment.
Montreal Massacre memorial online
Join with others at noon on December 6 for Support Survivors: An online viewing of the Montreal Massacre Memorial Service commemorative video to honour the lives of women lost to violence.
We remember the 14 women murdered in the 1989 Montreal massacre because they were women. We remember the 10 women on PEI who have been murdered since 1989 by men who knew them. We remember the thousands of Indigenous women and girls who have been murdered or are missing across Canada. We mourn for survivors and for those whose lives are harmed by violence.
Special guests include ACSW Chairperson Debbie Langston, guest
speaker Roxanne Carter-Thompson, musical offerings from Jenn Grant, Sirens and Todd MacLean, as well as community leaders and front-line workers lighting candles.
Register to join at eventbrite.ca by searching the event name: Support Survivors: An online viewing of the Montreal Massacre Memorial Service and remember to check the “keep me updated” option at the bottom of the registration page.
For more info about the event, email michelle@peistatusofwomen.ca.
Community Needs Assessment Survey
The Black Cultural Society of PEI is seeking help from everyone in the Black community on PEI. If you identify as a member of the Black community, please take a few minutes to complete their online Community Needs Assessment Survey at form. jotform.com/200703928045249.
The responses will help them determine community needs, address issues, and deliver relevant cultural and heritage programs, and will also give them a better understanding of where Black Island residents are living.
Info: blackculturesocietype@gmail. com or follow on FB
Acadian wool blanket fundraiser
The Acadian blanket was designed to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the French and Acadian presence on PEI as a fundraiser for the Farmers Bank Museum.
The queen size wool blanket has four stripes representing the colors in the Acadian flag which was adopted at the second Acadian convention in 1884 held in Miscouche, PEI. They were made by MacAusland’s Woolen Mills, located in Bloomfield.
The blankets can be purchased by contacting Arnold Smith, president of the Farmers Bank of Rustico Museum & Doucet House at 628-3131, farmersbank.ca or ags@bellaliant.net.
Please help us reach our goal for the 2020/21 Annual Financial Campaign for PEI Family Violence Prevention Services Inc.
This year’s campaign focuses on connection and highlights the importance of having multiple ways for victims of family violence to connect with us and access our services.
To read more or to donate: WWW.FVPS.CA or (902) 894-3354
Cervical cancer screening
Island women are reminded how important it is to be screened regularly for cervical cancer. Regular screening with a Pap test to detect abnormal changes in the cells at an early stage can help prevent cervical cancer and improve chances for a complete recovery. Islanders can call 1-888-561-2233 to book an appointment at one of the cervical cancer screening clinics, visit healthpei.ca/papscreening to complete an online booking form, or speak with their primary care provider. Cervical Cancer Pap Clinics are located across PEI.
New resources for tenants
Renting on PEI: A Guide for Tenants is now available. The Tenant Support Centre, a project of Community Legal Information (CLI), has published this new plain-language guide which provides legal information about tenants’ rights and responsibilities. Renting on PEI is available in English in hard copy and online at rentingpei.ca. The French version will be available soon. The new Tenant Support Worker, David McQuillan, offers separate workshops (virtual or in-person) for tenants and for landlords to provide legal information. To book a free workshop, call 940-5368 or email tenantsupport@ legalinfopei.ca. CLI is a registered charity that provides free legal information to Islanders. legalinfopei.ca
Physician recruitment
The Medical Society of PEI (MSPEI) has entered into a contract with the Dept of Health and Wellness to implement a physicians recruiting physicians model. A stipulation of this contract includes MSPEI hiring a Chief Physician Recruiter. This position is now open. The Chief Physician Recruiter will be the lead point of contact for PEI physicians and potential candidates and will work closely with the Recruitment and Retention Secretariat. More details at mspei.org.
UPEI Concussion Clinic
The UPEI Concussion Clinic is offering assessment and care for people who have experienced a recent head injury and continue to have symptoms. The clinic is offered weekly at the UPEI Health and Wellness Centre in the W. A. Murphy Student Centre in Ch’town. Individuals who continue to have physical, cognitive or emotional symptoms can receive assessment, education, and a plan-of-care developed with a nurse practitioner. Opportunities will be provided for interested individuals to participate in ongoing UPEI concussion research studies. Clinical care is provided by Dr. Gail Macartney, RN(NP). Email concussionclinic@upei.ca to request an appointment.
Food Asset Map
The Ch’town Food Council has developed a Ch’town Food Asset Map that identifies the existing strengths and resources in the community. The map will help the Food Council and other organizations gain a better understanding of the City’s existing food system and identify opportunities to improve it through future partnerships, policies
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and projects. The Food Council has been hosting virtual community conversations, 60-minute online workshops, to gain public input. The final two conversations take place Dec 1 and 3. Preregistration is required at charlottetown. ca/FoodCouncil. In partnership with the Province of PEI, the Food Council has also released a Community Food Questionnaire for the public to provide feedback about Ch’town’s food environment. The questionnaire is available online at charlottetown.ca/FoodCouncil until Dec 18 at 4 pm. Paper copies are available at City Hall, 199 Queen St.
AVC behaviour medicine
The Atlantic Veterinary College, UPEI, has expanded the veterinary medical services it offers to include behaviour medicine. Leading the new service is Dr. Karen Overall, associate professor of behaviour medicine at AVC. Dr. Overall said the first step in understanding behaviour is to understand signaling and communication. Dr. Overall will be assisted by resident Dr. Camille Squair. Dr. Squair’s residency is one of only a handful of conforming residencies worldwide approved by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, and the only one in Canada. The behaviour medicine service is offered primarily for dogs, cats and horses but will cover other animals as well. Those wishing to access the service may ask their vet for a referral, email AVCBehaviouralMed@upei.ca or call 566-0950 to set up an appointment.
Mi’kmaq printing website
Mi’kmaq Printing and Design (MPD) in Ch’town launched a new website, mikmaqprinting.com. The site will provide customers with another way to support the Island’s Indigenous social enterprise. MPD is a branch of the employment services program of the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI. They provide meaningful skills development and employment opportunities to Indigenous peoples living in PEI, while building relationships and sharing the Mi’kmaq language and culture through product design and development. MPD sells merchandise with Mi’kmaq-inspired designs that are created in-house, and provides custom designs and screenprinting services. The Indigenous influence flows through the new website which was created entirely in-house and features an all-Indigenous roster of models. With a fluent Mi’kmaq-speaker on staff, they hope to incorporate translations in the future. The website launch comes after a successful run of Orange Shirt Day on Sep 30. A portion of sales will be used to support educational activities focusing on reconciliation and to provide services to residential school survivors.
Online tree inventory
The public can now access the City of Ch’town’s Street Tree and Park Tree Inventory online at charlottetown.ca/
treeinventory. The public data includes basic tree information like species, size and planting details. The continuously updated database has an administrative side that staff use daily for managing tree maintenance schedules, developing strategic tree planting plans, creating management strategies for invasive species and more. The idea to take the database public was inspired by City staff and an engaged resident named Peter Rukavina. Information in the database is subject to change. If in question, details such as tree ownership should be verified with staff.
CFPEI annual gala
On Dec 10, the Community Foundation of PEI (CFPEI) will host their annual gala event in celebration of the positive impacts they have delivered on behalf of their donors. Presented by Credit Unions of PEI, this year’s gala will be a virtual online event. The evening will include a special tribute to long-time supporter, John Robinson, who is retiring from the CFPEI Board of Directors. The new Environment and Sustainability Fund at CFPEI in honour of Robinson will also be launched at the event. The evening will feature entertainment by Catherine MacLellan. All proceeds from the gala will go to the endowment fund.
Distinguished alumni
The Holland College Foundation has named alumni Vince McKenna, Programmer/Analyst (1984), Dawn Rix-Moore, Nursing Assistant (1996), and Harvey Stewart, Welding (1978), as the recipients of its 13th annual Distinguished Alumni Awards. Foundation Board Chair Kent Scales said that the 2020 recipients are being honoured for their accomplishments and commitment to their chosen professions. A display celebrating all alumni who have been honoured with the award is located on the college’s Prince of Wales Campus in Ch’town. Nominate an alumnus of Holland College for a Distinguished Alumni Award at hollandcollege.com.
Climate coordinators
Every provincial government department now has a designated climate change coordinator who will be trained to apply a climate change lens to executive council policies and decisions, and work together across departments to help solve problems. They will also offer training to their peers within their departments. princeedwardisland.ca
The future of land on PEI
Islanders will have a further opportunity to share their opinions and concerns about the future of land on PEI as a new Land Matters Advisory Committee prepares for stakeholder engagement. The 13-member committee includes representatives with backgrounds in agriculture, land planning, law and business.
Members were selected through Engage PEI and will review government strategies, policies and decisions regarding land on PEI to help identify any necessary changes in legislation or policy. Government has also invited L’nuey to nominate a person who will represent the perspective of the Mi’kmaq on the committee. Islanders are encouraged to visit landmatterspei.ca for more information about the comprehensive review of land-related legislation, including the project plan.
Engage PEI
Islanders continue to make positive impacts to their communities by participating in government agencies, boards and commissions. In Nov, close to 40 Islanders were appointed or reappointed to 16 government boards. Some of the boards currently seeking new members include Environmental Advisory Council, Labour Relations Board, and PEI Sports Hall of Fame and Museum Inc. To learn more about upcoming vacancies or to submit an application, visit Engage PEI at princeedwardisland.ca.
Early Years Centres
Five early childhood centres recently received an Early Years Centre designation. They are Little Ducklings, Stepping Stone, Rainbow Beginnings, Wee the West, and Wee Wonderz. Designated centres receive operational funding from the Dept of Education and Lifelong Learning to follow a provincial framework for curriculum, which is recognized as the best in the country, and are staffed by trained Early Childhood Educators. Early Years Centres also have government-regulated fees. There are now 54 provincial Early Years Centres on PEI.
Veterans honoured
The City of Ch’town honoured five people for their military service during the 2020 Veterans Recognition Awards ceremony in Nov at Ch’town City Hall. The Veterans Recognition Awards were initiated in 2005 to mark The Year of The Veteran. Since then, the City of Ch’town has continued to honour veterans each year with the private recognition ceremony. The 2020 recipients are Master Warrant Officer Chris Batchilder, Master Sailor Jeremy Gallant, Major Allan Manley, Corporal Ian Morison, and Chief Petty Officer Second Class Mark Nicolle. charlottetown.ca
UPEI Panther Pitch
UPEI has launched UPEI Panther Pitch, a program in which aspiring UPEI student entrepreneurs can submit their start-up idea for a chance to win a minimum of $5000 in seed money, with up to a total of $45,000 being granted each year. The UPEI Panther Pitch is supported by the Harry W. MacLauchlan Entrepreneurship Program, dedicated to the development of entrepreneurial-minded students who will create and lead new ventures that will grow and benefit PEI communities. UPEI students, in teams or as individuals, can submit their start-up idea by Jan 14 using the pre-screening application at upei.ca/pantherpitch.
Before Grindr
Gay and lesbian history of PEI series launches December 1
Before Grindr: The Secret Social History of Gay & Lesbian PEI, a six-part interview series, will launch online December 1. The series begins the process of documenting the lives of queer Islanders, a record, says Dave Stewart, the project’s creator, that hasn’t existed publicly until this point.
“Talking with some younger members of PEI’s queer community, I really got the sense that our history just wasn’t there,” says Stewart. “There are records of our legal battles, but because being gay and lesbian was so misunderstood and maligned in the past, our identities and our history were erased from the official record.”
Stewart hosts the series in which he talks with seven lesbian and gay Islanders ranging in age from their fifties to their seventies.
“When I started researching this project, I came to find that we could really only go as far back as the 1970s,” says Stewart. “And that’s why the focus of this series is on gay and lesbian Islanders. At that time, we didn’t understand the scope of the transgender community, and the concept of being non-binary was really yet to come into the conversation.”
Stewart co-produced Before Grindr with journalist Laura Chapin, relying on her production experience and knowledge. Pride PEI and PEERS Alliance also came onboard to present the series and to cover the costs of shooting the interviews.
“When I became aware that Dave and Laura were doing this, I brought it to the boards of Pride PEI and PEERS Alliance,” says Tyler Murnaghan, Treasurer and a Director of Pride PEI. “Both boards voted unanimously to
PEI Citizen Advocacy
Local charity seeks matches for adults with disabilities
For the past thirty years, PEI Citizen Advocacy (PEICA), a not-for-profit, charitable organization has maintained a Matching Program that pairs volunteer advocates and adult protégés living with an intellectual disability.
This kind of pairing is even more important right now. Prolonged restrictions on normal activities due to the pandemic are likely to create physical, mental and emotional stress in everyone. For people with an intellectual disability, the effects of the pandemic make them especially vulnerable.
Twilah Stone, president of PEICA, says by acting as a friend to someone with a disability, volunteers can have a profound effect.
Nancy Richards has been an advocate for over twenty years. She describes the experience as enjoyable, rewarding, and energizing for both her and her protégé.
“We used to distribute The Buzz newspaper together,” she said. “Now that I retired from The Buzz, we spend more time going for beach walks, playing music or preparing meals. It’s a very good and rewarding feeling to support someone in our community.
“The more time we spend together the more we learn about each other. My friend has taught me many things about the difficulties of living with a disability. It has changed my life for the better.”
help support the project, because it’s such an important part of what we’re doing, providing resources for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community here in PEI.”
“It is incredibly important to document the queer history of PEI and to have some of the history recorded for younger and future generations to learn from and appreciate,” says Brittany Jakubiec, the Executive Director of PEERS Alliance. “Not only does this interview series capture and showcase a part of our shared history, but it reinforces the message that queer visibility matters.”
“The magnitude of Before Grindr cannot be understated, both as an investigation of queer stories here on PEI and of the lived experiences of Islanders in a time before the liberation offered by the internet, when there was no ‘gay village’ to anchor identity and place,” adds Pride PEI Chair John Kimmel. “Understanding intergenerational queerness, and how the work of 2SLGBTQIA+ elders on PEI have paved the way for a younger, savvier, and more connected population, is key to understanding how queer communi ties evolved from the stories they tell.”
Ryan McCarvill of PEI’s Retrospective Pictures was behind the camera for the interviews. McCarvill will also per form editing duties along with Stewart and Chapin.
“We’re really just giving an overview here,” says Stewart. “It has to start somewhere, and this is it, the tip of the iceberg. And really, there are countless stories to be told, including those of our trans and non-binary peers.”
All six episodes will be available for viewing at rainbowhub.ca on December 1.
Across the Island, there are over 150 adults with disabilities who would benefit from developing a friendship with a volunteer.
Gilbert Buote Award
The Sister Antoinette DesRoches Historical Committee presented its annual Gilbert Buote Award in October to the Conseil Rév. S.-É. Perrey of West Prince for the historical and heritage activities it organized during the 2019 World Acadian Congress in collaboration with the municipality of Tignish.
The presentation of the award took place at the Centre acadien de PrinceOuest. Georges Arsenault, president of the Historical Committee, presented the award to Junior Bernard, president of the Conseil Rév. S.É. Perrey.
PEICA is developing a number of pandemic safe activities which they hope will offer additional incentives to attract new volunteers. To get involved in helping to create a more inclusive community, contact PEICA at 566-3523 or peica@eastlink.ca.
Acadian Congress enabled the Acadian community of that part of the Island to become better known, while at the same time stimulating pride and a sense of belonging to the larger Acadian community.
Jim Culbert (left) interviewed by D.A. Stewart for Before Grindr. RYAN MCCARVILL
LORI PERRY
World
Georges Arsenault, Eileen Chiasson Pendergast and Junior Bernard.
Illustrated Flora of PEI
Work has started on the fourth section of the publication Online Illustrated Flora of PEI thanks to a grant from the PEI Wildlife Conservation Fund and donations from Nature PEI’s fundraising campaign.
The Online Illustrated Flora of PEI publication uses pictures to allow an individual to identify the various plants on PEI. Checklists for each group and a technical text-only key are also available for those more adept at plant identification keys.
The new section will cover 345 species of 47 families. It will build upon the Ferns and Rose sections released in 2018, 2019 and 2020, which can be found online at accdc.com.
The project is led by a steering committee with representatives of Nature PEI, PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation, and Atlantic Canada Conservation Data Centre (ACCDC).
The development of the fourth section is being supported by donations from Nature PEI members, Nature PEI, and the PEI Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division, as well as
in-kind contributions from ACCDC, Nature PEI, PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation, Island Nature Trust, and PEI Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division. The complete Online Illustrated Flora of PEI will be finished in March 2022. Donations can be made at naturepei.ca.
A willow in flower (and a happy little bee).
NICOLE MURTAGH
The Nature of PEI by Gary Schneider
Plant publications
When learning about plants and plantings, it is always useful to have information that targets native species in your locale. I’m happy to announce that two new online publications will be assets to anyone interested in native plants, restoration and improvement to habitat.
These publications were produced with support from the PEI Priority Place Forested Landscape for Species at Risk, a joint program of Environment and Climate Change Canada and the provincial government.
Rare Native Plants in Habitat Restoration focuses on taking advantage of restoration efforts to improve biodiversity to our Island landscape. It provides information on growing a variety of rare species, including native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and ferns. Plants such as round-leaf dogwood and yellow violet are only found in a few places in the province. Anyone with a bit of gardening experience is quite capable of collecting some seeds and propagating these plants. They can then be added to suitable sites in the area.
There is a discussion on being very careful when harvesting seed from rare plants—it doesn’t make sense to improve biodiversity in one area while at the same time degrading another. There is also information provided on species rankings, following up on the brilliant work done by the Atlantic Canada Conservation Data Centre. See accdc.com.
You may not have seen some of these species before, since much of our woodland is lacking in diversity, but they are worth encouraging. Photos accompany each of the 17 species highlighted, along with a description, habitat, areas of usage, wildlife usage and methods of propagation.
Rare Native Plants is available at macphailwoods.org. I feel like there should be a “Be Kind to Rare Plants” day in the province, just to encourage people to continue valuing and increasing the numbers of rare plants.
A second digital publication has also been released that will be valuable for watershed groups and landowners looking to improve habitat with native plants. Native Plants and Watersheds—A Natural Combination is a publication of the PEI Watershed Alliance.
The main focus of Native Plants and Watersheds is on assessing riparian zones. Using real-life examples, it looks at different conditions found along streams and suggests ways to improve the health and diversity in those woodlands. Some examples are streams bordered with alders, old-field white spruce, and recently abandoned fields that are regenerating with a mix of species. For each scenario, techniques are suggested for improving biodiversity and forest health. There are also suggestions as to what plants can be used as part of the restoration.
Another section that will be of use to anyone interested in native plants is the key to identifying deciduous trees and shrubs. The publication also looks at what types of plants can be used in specific conditions. For example, it has lists of plants that can be used in wet areas in full sunlight, wet areas with partial shade, dry areas in full sun, and dry areas with partial shade. It also has lists for windbreaks and hedgerows, shorelines, and around homes.
A list of species and associated wildlife that use it is also included. You can learn, for example, how to attract cedar waxwings to your yard, or why the winter fruits—highbush cranberry, American mountain ash, winterberry holly, wild rose and hawthorn—are so important to wildlife.
Native Plants and Watersheds is available at peiwatershedalliance.org and macphailwoods.org. Each publication contains an extensive reading list targeted at potential users. Both publications were created by myself and Daniel McRae.
Celebrating over 40 years in Kenya Farmers Helping Farmers, an Island organization, works to help Kenyan farm families to produce enough food for their families and to educate their children. Gift cards will be sent to you for your family, friends or clients in time for the holidays, along with a tax deductible receipt. Your donation for items with * will be multiplied by 5 with support from Global Affairs Canada to improve food security for Kenyan women farmers.
The women farmers we work with in Kenya have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these gifts will help to lower the risk to them from the virus by reducing the need to venture out for water, firewood, vegetables and to buy paraffin for their lamps.
Suggestions
*General donation (please fill in amount) $
check your gift item(s), fill out the information below, and mail this ad with your payment to Farmers Helping Farmers, PO Box 2623, Charlottetown, PE C1A 8C3 OR giving online has never been easier! Click donate at www.farmershelpingfarmers.ca All donations received by December 15,
One of two new online publications created by Gary Schneider and Daniel MacRae.
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The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson
Free to dream
American Election Night 2020, 3:30 am, results still coming in. I feel like I haven’t had a restful dream-filled sleep in weeks. Every time I close my eyes I think about how the world was turned upside down four years ago.
I get out of bed, pull on warm clothes and quietly close the door behind me.
Earlier in the evening there was a dusting of snow, and now the countryside sparkles in silver moonlight. My boots go squeak squeak squeak as they print clean bright tracks on earth’s broad white canvas. Reaching the shore road I stop to listen: no car in the distance, no owl calling to its mate, no coyote yipping at the stars, even the sea is silent. Houses in the Cove are all asleep, as they should be at this time of night, no televisions casting flickering blue light through living room windows.
In a farmyard an old tractor and hay wagon pose attractively in silhouette against an array of hay bales encased in shiny white plastic.
I turn the corner and a breeze springs up. In someone’s yard a rope knocks relentlessly on a flagpole, bang, bang bang. Now I hear the hum—almost a roar—of fans drying out the harvest in the blue potato warehouse. Trucks have been coming and going here all fall: was there successful potato harvest this year? I think so, but I’ve been preoccupied and haven’t noticed.
Of course I know that the troubles of today are mere blips in time. Look up there in the southern sky, under the moon: there’s the hunter Orion waving his club, as he has for millions of years. If he isn’t part of the big picture I don’t know who is. I guess I should just take a deep breath and relax.
I pause and shine my flashlight on the spruce trees, mailboxes, power lines, rosehips: things are as they should be. I’m on PEI! I have so many blessings I can’t begin to count them on my fingers. Time to turn around and follow my footprints homewards, close my eyes and forget about distant rumblings …
… On Saturday we get a call from New York son: “Biden won!” Fireworks go off in London, church bells ring out in Paris, and in the history books a new chapter begins.
I can look around again, think about what I should be doing with the rest of my life, talk to my neighbours, do a little shopping, put up lights, get ready for Christmas. I find out I was wrong about the Living Nativity: it’s still happening! It will be different, though just as lovely and unlikely as ever. (December 4, 5 and 6.) Meanwhile, our Women’s Institute is taking the winter off: too hard to meet in small spaces.
Whew, this memorable year is almost over. At least we’ve been given permission to dream again. It’s wonderful what a good night’s sleep will do to one’s outlook on life.
Merry Christmas and happy dreaming, one and all!
BIS Fall Lecture
NEW RELEASES
Christmas is Love
Sheila Ann Smith
Sheila Ann Smith has released her fourth album, Christmas is Love, a celebration of Christmas in a variety of styles including contemporary, jazz, gospel and easy listening.
Christmas is Love includes 13 tracks with Christmas favourites like “I’ll be Home for Christmas,” “O Holy Night” and “Away in a Manger.” The title track, “Christmas is Love,” is a reminder to take a step back from the busyness of Christmas and remember to take time to love. The album also includes three of Smith’s original compositions.
Her first Christmas album, Christmas: Heaven’s Gift gained the Canadian Gospel Music Association’s attention with a nomination for Seasonal Album of the Year and a second nomination for Jazz Song of the Year for her version of “Silent Night.” Smith’s debut album, Dreams Can Soar also gained a Gospel Music Association nomination for Jazz Song of the Year for her original song, “Heal My Soul.”
Smith has performed at concerts and festivals sharing her music and stories in five continents. Born in Alberta, she has made PEI home for the past six years, coming back to her mother’s birthplace and family roots. Usually performing in Singapore during the Christmas season, Smith is instead enjoying the beauty and quiet of PEI.
Christmas is Love is available at sheilaannsmith.net.
“The Rain”
Calm Baretta
Calm Baretta released their single “The Rain” in mid-November. Collaborating with Adam Warren of waants and Glory, Glory, and Nigel Haan of Deafpop, Calm Baretta treated their fans to a couple of remixes of “The Rain” as well.
“The Rain” was recorded and mixed by Adam Gallant from the Hill Sound Studio in Charlottetown and the song was mastered by Rob Kliener out of Los Angeles, California. Cover art by Calm Baretta and Issara Willen. Collaborator Adam Warren took full reign with the waants remix.
Calm Baretta is a Charlottetown based alternative indie rock band featuring Laura Oakie (keys, synths, vocals), Josh Carter (lead vocals, guitars), Nigel Haan (bass, vocals), and Matt Bridges (drums).
Listen to three versions of “The Rain” at calmbaretta.bandcamp.com.
“Run with You” KINLEY
KINLEY released the music video to “Run with You,” the second single from her self titled album. The project highlights KINLEY’s ability to tell a story through her music, and the collaboration with local Island filmmaker Jenna MacMillian highlights her aesthetic and eye for detail.
An East Coast team including camera operator Christopher Ball (The Lighthouse, Aquaman), came together to make a music video that takes a nostalgic look back at the Gold Cup and Saucer Race in Charlottetown. Conceptualized with friend and filmmaker Jenna MacMillian, KINLEY stars in the music video playing her timid, younger self as she encounters the “cool girl” she longs to be friends with.
“‘Run With You’ is a letter to a cool Canadian rock singer I have always admired,” shares KINLEY. “No matter what I am feeling, the sound of her voice can make me drop everything and dance. In this song I wanted to thank her for the amazing music and the way it makes me feel. It is about how I want to hang out with her and not feel or care about anyone else’s judgement,” says KINLEY.
The Gold Cup Race plays backdrop to the music video and includes a gaggle of Gold Cup ambassadors, some frantic reporters, and two horses. The Gold Cup Race has been happening since the early 1960s and the video includes archival footage from the decades to help set the scene.
KINLEY is one of the most sought after string players when violin or viola are required for a studio album. She has recorded on over 70 records during the span of her career.
Watch “Run with You” at kinleymusic.com.
Night Music
Sarah Hagen solo piano recital at St Paul’s—Dec 11 & 12
Night Music returns to St. Paul’s in Charlottetown this season as a celebration of hope, love, joy and peace. Pianist Sarah Hagen invites people yearning for an evening of repose through music to come out for a carefully curated hour-long programme of works by Chopin, Satie, Bach and others. In the spirit of shared reflection, the audience is encouraged to enter quietly, and pieces will flow from one to the next without pause or applause.
December’s edition of Night Music will be held December 11 and 12 at 8 pm. Seating will be distanced and very limited. Reserve early by emailing info@sarahhagen.com or by filling out the reservation form at sarahhagen.com. Admission is pay-what-you-will at the door.
St. Paul’s is located at the corner of Prince and Grafton Streets in Charlottetown.
Acadian Christmas
Concert at Village musical acadien—Dec 21
Get into the holiday spirit and celebrate with local artists at one of Village musical acadien’s Christmas concerts on December 19 and 20 at 7 pm.
The traditional concerts will feature Christmas songs and holiday music performed by Caroline Bernard, Marcella Richard, Keelin Wedge, Louise Arsenault, Wayne Robichaud and Rémi Arsenault. Guests will also be invited to share the stage.
All events will take place at the Village musical acadien in Abram-Village. Storm date is December 21 at 7 pm. Purchase tickets online at villagemusical.ca.
VENUES
Trailside Music Hall
Doors at 6:30 pm with music at 8 pm. Tickets at trailside.ca. Located in The Arts Hotel, 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Lennie Gallant - The Innkeeper’s Christmas Dec 5
an annual holiday show featuring a collection of original songs, seasonal carols and Gallant favourites
Nick Doneff Dec 6
Nick Doneff has become a staple within the PEI music scene as a busy sideman and multi-instrumentalist.
Shane Pendergast Dec 8
Shane Pendergast is a folksinger from Tracadie Cross. His connection to Maritime music and Island folklore spans four generations.
Còig Christmas Show Dec 9 & 10
MacLean is a 25 year veteran of the stage and an international touring and recording artist. Singer-songwriter Kierrah Celeste will open the show.
Winterjazz Quartet Dec 16
“We Wish You a Jazzy Christmas” will highlight the music of the season arranged in the Winterjazz Quartets’ own unique way.
Jill Chandler & Maureen Trainor Christmas Concert Dec 17
Jill Chandler’s songs come from a place of love, truth and loss. With catchy melodies and poetic lyrics, her songs tell her story. Maureen Trainor has been writing songs for over two decades. Her writing style most closely aligns with folk, although she draws influence from a variety of genres
Andrew Waite Dec 18 & 19
Andrew’s songwriting and performance style is inspired by a range of artists including Dan Mangan, Glen Hansard, the Arkells and Bruce Springsteen.
Kimberley Mooney Dec 20
PEI author Kimberly Mooney will launch her honest and humorous debut, The Recital. Book insights and readings from Mooney, and musical performances by Josh and Sam Langille, Lawrence Maxwell, Kelley Mooney, Katie McGarry, Justyn Young, The Good Ol’ Boys, Larry Koughan and Kim herself.
Dave Gunning & J.P Cormier
Christmas Show Dec 21–23
Two of the busiest solo musicians in the country are coming together for a show that will feature a mix of new and old songs, plus fan favourites.
Coyote Dec 26 & 28
Charlottetown rock band Coyote is known for its well crafted and thought out live performances, they blend ele ments of rock, pop and experimental.
The High-Five Dec 29
Mike Dixon, Dean Dunsford, Chris Coupland, James Phillips and J.D. Hughes present a curated journey of their favourite rhythm & blues and rock ‘n’ roll tunes spanning the 1940’s through to the 1980’s.
Amanda Jackson Band
Dec 30 & 31
Good Bye! (30) & Good Riddance! (31)
Harmony House
Located at 19814 Route 2, Hunter River. Tickets can be purchased by calling 964-2255. harmonyhousetheatre.com
Holiday Kitchen Parties with Mike Ross
Dec 4–6, 11–13
Mike Ross (Jive Kings, Charlottetown Festival) and his ensemble interpret hol iday classics with a kitchen party vibe. Ross is joined by Alicia Toner, Michelle Bouey, and Joce Reyome, with Deryl Gallant and Trevor Grant as his band. Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm with Sunday matinees at 2 pm.
Celtic quartet Còig will perform their Christmas show.
Tara MacLean with Kierrah Celeste Dec 15
RYAN MACDONALD
Impaired driving hurts
BUZZIFIEDS
GALLERY ADMIN ASSISTANT
Montague’s Artisans on Main looking to hire enthusiastic, arts oriented youth (up to age 30) for two month contract, January–February 2021. Great opportunity to learn to develop business and marketing plans, website refresh, and general office administration. Application deadline: December 8, 2020. Details at artisansonmainmontague.ca
ENNEAGRAM—Curious about what makes you tick? If interested, explore the Enneagram with me as your guide. Student of Enneagram Institute, Enneagram in Business, Integrative 9. Contact anne.gillis@gmail.com 902-394-1124
CHRISTMAS—Check Bookmark or Indigo for the Camden Mystery Club Trilogy by Anne Hotchkis, featuring Cody Blue at the QEH, The Cari Complex Convict, and Murder at the Confederation Centre. It is a great Christmas gift for young adults, even adults love it.
600 SQ FEET OF STUDIO SPACE for hourly or daily rental or lease at 344 Univsersity Ave for yoga, dance, mediation, music lessons, acting, or other activities for bare feet or indoor footwear. Contact Mary, 892-4658 or visit pathstudio.ca for more information.
SILKWALKER ORIGINALS
One-of-a-kind Silk Art, scarves, wraps, scenes and accessories. Individually hand painted by Charlotteto-wn silk artist, Heather Walker. Custom designs and personalized special occasion scarves for weddings, birthdays, retirement, etc. All are Hand-washable. Sold at many fine craft shops in PEI and by appointment, at her home studio in Charlottetown. www. silkwalker.com, heather@silkwalker.com, 902-330-8188
ORGANIC VEGGIE DELIVERY
Home delivery of fresh local organic veggies, foods, and other natural products. $25 / $40 / $50 Veggie Boxes or custom orders. Aaron Koleszar aaron@organicveggiedelivery.com, 902-629-2575
WINTER VEHICLE STORAGE.
Indoor storage on concrete floor, October–May. Mount Herbert, near Bunbury roundabout. hornby@pei.sympatico.ca. 902-569-3643.
HANDYMAN FOR HIRE!
No job is too small so contact me to help you tackle your “to do” list! FACEBOOK: Joe Mullen Handyman Services. EMAIL: joemullenhandymanservices@gmail.com
BUZZIFIED NEXT DEADLINE
4 pm, Friday, December 11. $18/month for 30 words (tax included). $80 for 6 months.
Cst. Dakota VanColen Kensington Police Services
Larkin Primary Care Paramedic
Wilkinson OperatorCommunicationsOperationalCentre
Anson Grant Chief of North River Fire and Rescue
Cst. Stephen Duggan RCMP Officer and Board Member of MADD Canada
LIVE MUSIC
Baba’s Lounge
Michael Peters every Saturday at 8 pm. Island Jazz every Thursday at 8 pm. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown. 892-7377
Brothers 2
Every Thursday and Friday at 7 pm. Roland Beaulieu (Dec 3), Chris & Eric (4), Dave Woodside (10), Katen & Mike (11), Nick Hann (17), Danielle MacDonald (18). 618 Water St, Summerside. 436-9654
Copper Bottom Brewing
Saturday Jams with Brad Oliver and company every Saturday from 2–4 pm, featuring members of the Rubber Boot Band and friends. Guests include Mike Page, Peter Lux, Carter MacLellan, Ben Mitzuk, Scott Taylor, and more. Admission is free. Tunes on Tap! traditional music every Sunday from 3–5 pm. Performers are: JJ Chaison & Darla MacPhee (6, 20), Thomas Harrington & Jesse Periard (13), TBA (27). Admission is free. 567 Main St, Montague. 361-2337
Dunstaffnage Ceilidh
The next ceilidh at Dunstaffnage School Centre will be held Dec 6 at 7 pm. Hosted by the Roadmasters Band featuring Ivor Price, Wayne Diamond, Theo Wiegers and David Moore. Special guests. Limited seating. 13539 St Peter’s Rd, Mount Stewart. 629-1498
Gahan House
Acoustic live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9 pm. 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown. 626-BEER
Sturgeon Ceilidh
The Sturgeon Christmas Ceilidh on Sunday Dec 6, 6:30 pm at St. Pauls Parish Hall. Live music, comedy, Santa Claus, 50/50 draw. Performers include KJill Harris, Allan MacDonald, The MacDonald Sisters, Doris & Marie, Marie MacIntyre, Mary Lou MacLure, Leith and EveLou McCarron, Agnes VandenBremt, Colton Matheson, Ralph Jenkins, Jo-Anne
Ford & Michael Buell, Glen MacDonald, Michael O’Connor & George Johnson, Emmett Decoursey, and Kevin Jesso & Kenny MacKinnon. Limited seating. Reservations accepted for 6 pm. Admission at door. Route 17A, Sturgeon. Reserve at 838-2253 or stmarysparish@pei.aibn.com.
Irish Culture Centre
Benevoloent Irish Society events continue in December. Tip Er Back Christmas Ceilidh with Allan Betts, Clive Curry and Wade Murray (11). The hall is currently restricted to 100 guests. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown. 892-2367
Lone Oak Brewing
Every Saturday at 7 pm and every Sunday at 1 pm. Dave Woodside (Dec 5), Logan Richard (6, 13, 20, 27), Max Koughan (12), Roland Beaulieu (19, 26). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton. 729-2228, loneoakbrew.com
Music at the Manse
Host Tim Archer and local musicians. Concerts are held in the restored theatre room originally built in 1830. Upcoming events: I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas (10–13). Shows begin at 7 pm. 14155 St Peter’s Rd, Marshfield. 213-2861
Olde Dublin Pub
Live music every Friday and Saturday. 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown. 892-6992
The Old Triangle
Roy Johnstone & Friends every Sunday at 2 pm. “Sort of” Schooner Sessions with Ward MacDonald every Thursday at 7 pm. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown. 892-5200
Summerside
Legion
Kitchen Party every Saturday from 2–5 pm, featuring Rheal Arsenault, Andy Paynter and a weekly special guest. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside. 436-2091.
The Innkeeper’s Christmas
Copper Bottom Brewing in Montague presents Lennie Gallant’s The Innkeeper’s Christmas, an annual holiday show featuring a collection of original songs, seasonal carols and Gallant favourites on December 4, 6 and 7. Tickets available in the taproom or online at copperbottombrewing.com. Doors open at 6:30 pm. 19+ event. Copper Bottom Brewing is located at 567 Main Street, Montague.
Parkview Music Jam
Parkview Music Jam every Wednesday from 7–9 pm at the Parkview Seniors Club. One time registration fee for participants. More info: Brian Morrison, 436-3258, bmorrison@pei.sympatico.ca. 335 Central St, Summerside.
TRIVIA
Darcy Campbell
Entertainment trivia on Thursdays at 9 pm. Hunter’s Ale House, 185 Kent St, Charlottetown. 367-4040
Barry Parsons
Trivia on Thursdays at 7 pm. PEI Brewing Company, 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown. 629-2739
Spencer & Dan
Trivia on Fridays at 7:30 pm. Lone Oak Brewing, 103 Abegweit Blvd, BordenCarleton. 729-2228
Dave Connolly
“Toughest Trivia in Town” on Saturdays at 2:30 pm. The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown. 892-5200
Andrew Rollins
Music trivia on Sundays at 9 pm. Hunter’s Ale House, 185 Kent St, Charlottetown. 367-4040
The Official Opposition Caucus wishes you the happiest and healthiest of celebrations this year.
Happy H idays!
COVID Alert helps us break the cycle of infection
“The more Islanders that download the app, the more helpful it will be in preventing future outbreaks. It is a quick and easy step to take to further protect yourself and others.”
Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Heather Morrison
NUMBER
Editor/Sales: Yanik Richards
Editor: Michelle Ollerhead
Creative Media: Greg Webster
Partners: Maggie Lillo (Ruby Square Graphic Design), Carly Martin (Hawthorne House Media)
Contributers: Bryan Carver, Jan Cox, Judy Gaudet, Deirdre Kessler, Jane Ledwell, Takako Morita, Heather Reid, JoDee Samuelson, Gary Schneider
The Buzz is published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc.
Mail: P.O. Box 1945, Charlottetown, PE C1A7N5
Office: 160 Richmond Street, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1H9
Phone: 902-628-1958
E-mail: info@buzzpei.com
Social Media: @buzzpei
Cover:
Heather Reid is an Island artist who paints in acrylics. Her original paintings can be viewed at The Dunes Gallery (seasonally) and Ellen’s Creek Gallery. You can see a sampling of her work on facebook.com/heatherreidpaints. Heather is also available for commissions. Contact her by email at heatherereid@icloud.com.
The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Compensation for errors in advertising copy which are the proven responsibility of the publisher is limited to a maximum of the cost of the placement of the advertisement.
Christmas Glow, 20”x 20”, Acrylic on Canvas (detail)
FLU SHOTS
It is more important than ever to get a flu shot this season.
Influenza vaccinations are free for all Island residents. Get yours early; it takes a couple of weeks to build immunity. Flu shots are available at your health care provider’s office, at pharmacies and at public health clinics.
Mall Holiday Hours
Effective Sunday November 29th: Open Sundays 12pm - 5pm
Effective Monday December 14th
Monday – Friday 9am - 8pm Saturday 9am - 5:30pm
Mall Holiday Closures
Thursday, December 24th: 9am - 4pm
Friday, December 25th: CLOSED
Saturday, December 26th: CLOSED
Thursday, December 31st: 9am - 4pm
Friday, January 1st: CLOSED
Saturday, January 2nd: 9am - 5pm
Sunday, January 3rd: CLOSED
Victorian Christmas Market Weekend Malls Hours
Friday, November 27th: 9am- 9pm
Saturday, November 28th: 9am- 8pm
Sunday, November 29th: 12pm-5pm
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