The Buzz - December 2022

December 2022

Lori-Ann Lingley

The Guild’s new CEO

Roma Dingwell chosen to lead arts organization

organization also executed a successful capital campaign to restore the 82-yearold building. She has worked with the East Coast Music Awards in cultivating sponsorship relationships and offered expertise to Cecilia Concerts, a nonprofit charity that presents performances by emerging and established musicians.

For ten years, Roma has served as Board Chair for Devour! The Food Film Fest, which is now recognized as the largest food film festival in the world. She has led signature events for the Mental Health Foundation of NS, Pier 21 Society, the QE2 Foundation, and Kids Help Phone. Settling in quickly to PEI, she managed the 2022 Van Gogh exhibit in Charlottetown.

BMO 1st Art! prize

Holland College graduate Chris Bailey is a regional winner

Chris Bailey, a graduate of Holland College’s Graphic Design program, was recently named a regional winner in the BMO 1st Art! competition. His Fisherman’s Repose submission has earned him a $7500 cash prize.

The Guild’s Board of Directors has announced Roma Dingwell as the new incoming Chief Executive Officer. Her in-depth experience in the arts, culture, and philanthropy scene will serve as a great asset to the organization.

Under Roma’s leadership, the Nova Scotia Chester Playhouse, a venue that fosters and promotes the performing arts, transitioned from a seasonal platform to a year-round presentation facility. Under her tenure, the

Throughout her career, Roma has demonstrated an ability to create opportunities for people to connect and showcase their unique talents.

She says, “I believe the success of every organization is based on the respect, collaboration and cooperation of its members and I remain most grateful for the opportunities I have in working with engaged individuals who are committed to making a contribution to our communities.”

The BMO 1st Art! competition celebrates the creativity of art school students from over 100 post-secondary institutions across Canada. The national winner is awarded $15,000 and the regional winners each receive $7500. Every year BMO Financial Group invites the deans and instructors of an undergraduate-level certificate, diploma, or degree program in studio art to select three graduating students whose ability and imagination place them first among their peers.

Through CMYK print on foam core PVC panel, Bailey’s piece is a depiction of his father. It captures a quiet moment for a man who has worked

Native Council Art Show

A space for new and upcoming Indigenous artists

The Native Council of PEI will showcase Indigenous Island artists at their Art Show on December 2, from 4–9 pm, at the NCPEI Programming Office in Charlottetown. All are welcome.

The Art Show is a space for like minded, creative hearts. Featuring fine art, paint, leather, fibre art,

hard his whole life and, at 69, is looking to step out of the profession he’s been in since he was 13.

To see all the winners, visit 1start.bmo.com

pottery, spoken word, found objects, poetry, beading, and more, artists of all mediums and skills levels will be showcased. Participating artists must register by November 30.

Organizers are hoping to provide a platform for burgeoning creatives that do not have the ways and means of getting their artistic endeavours out in the public. For some artists, this will be their first time putting their creations into an art space.

To register as a participating artist, email Louise Lamothe at sundanceview@icloud.com by November 30.

The Native Council of PEI Programming Office is located at 614 North River Road in Charlottetown.

Roma Dingwell

Fisherman’s Repose by Chris Bailey

Positive

PEI HIV/AIDS documentary to launch on World AIDS Day

Positive: When HIV/AIDS Hit PEI will launch at 7 pm on World AIDS Day, December 1, at City Cinema in Charlottetown. This half-hour documentary records the onset of HIV/ AIDS in Prince Edward Island, illustrated here by the effect the virus has had on three Islanders.

Troy Perrot-Sanderson and George Clark-Dunning have both been living with HIV since the early 1990’s. Through the early days of medical trial and error, public scrutiny, and the uncertainty that the virus brings, Perrot-Sanderson and Clark-Dunning both became active in public education and advocacy, bringing their experience and knowledge across the province.

Stuart Hickox knows the toll the virus can have on not only those diagnosed as HIV positive, but their families as well. Stuart is a relative of Allan Hickox, the first Islander known to have died from AIDS. In Positive, Stuart addresses the community and media fallout that added to the grief the Hickox family was enduring in the wake of Allen’s death, and the strength of Allen’s mother Jean in advocating for her son, both during his illness and after his death.

Following the release of his six-part digital documentary series “Before Grindr: The Secret Social History of Gay & Lesbian PEI” in 2020, filmmaker Dave Stewart says he realized that there was another 2SLGBTQIA+ story he had to tell from the Island’s past.

“There are so many stories from marginalized communities that we need to bring to light before the opportunity is gone,” says Stewart. “I’m not just talking about the queer community, I’m also talking about the BIPOC community, women, the unhoused, and the like. We need to get a full and

accurate picture of our past, and people of all sorts need to be represented there. Otherwise, what we’re holding as our history is at best incomplete, and at worst, an untruth.”

Positive is being launched in collaboration with PEERS Alliance.

“We were excited to support the making of this important documentary and we are thrilled to have it launch on World AIDS Day,” said Angele Desroches, Program Director of PEERS Alliance. “Storytelling is a powerful thing—it helps us make meaning from our experiences, connects us to one another, and opens us to healing. It can be really empowering to own your narrative and tell your own story. This documentary creates an opportunity to understand the HIV/AIDS crisis from a personal and very local perspective.”

The launch is open to the public free of charge. Seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. There will be a Q&A following the screening. Positive will be available online at ranbowhub.ca.

Troy Perrot-Sanderson (left) and George Clark-Dunning being interviewed for Positive

SUBMITTED

Breadalbane Gallery

Next show by local artists opens December 9

Hale-toi une chaise!

Hybrid exhibition at Acadian Museum in Miscouche

The hybrid exhibition Haletoi une chaise!Pull up a chair! will be on view at the Acadian Museum of PEI in Miscouche until the end of February.

Based on a concept dreamt up by Arnold Smith, chairman of the board of the Farmer’s Bank of Rustico Museum, the hybrid exhibition displays works made by members of the public who participated in a painted chair project. Coached by local artists and using chairs and other objects as their canvas, each participant created a painting or collage to represent how they felt about their environment and culture.

The Breadalbane Gallery will open its next show of works by local artists on December 9 with an opening reception from 6–8 pm. Music will be provided by Jon Rehder.

The December show includes work by Haley Lewis, Zoe Novaczek, Becka Viau, Vian Emery, Marianne Janowicz, William Baker, Adrianna Chandler, Joan Sutton and others.

The Gallery is a casual community space hosting artists from the Breadalbane area and around PEI. Artists interested in showing may submit work to breadalbanegallery.com.

The Gallery is open Tuesday and Wednesday (11 am–2:30 pm), Thursday (5–8 pm), and by appointment by calling 621-0575 or emailing breadalbane.gallery@gmail.com. 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.

Surrounding these works are artifacts and archives from the Acadian Museum’s own collection that are seldom seen by the public. A reproduction of an old-fashioned Acadian kitchen and a stage will make this space ready for events like kitchen parties, story nights, cooking demonstrations and other events throughout the winter. Visitors will be amused at guessing the meanings of old Acadian kitchen terms posted to the walls.

Painting [detail] by Haley Lewis

Follow on FB for upcoming events. The Acadian Museum of PEI is located at 23 Main Dr E, Miscouche. museeacadien.org

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Through Our Lens

Sixty Days of Fame Exhibit by Red Sands Photography Club

The latest Sixty Days of Fame exhibit is Through Our Lens by the Red Sands Photography Club. A Meet the Artist night will be held December 6 from 6:30 pm–8 pm. The exhibit will hang in the exhibition space of MacNaught History Centre and Archives in Summerside throughout December and January.

Through Our Lens features the many styles of the Club’s membership in capturing with a camera the everyday happenings of Island life. This is the first exhibit for the club since before the pandemic. At which time, they stopped their regular meetings.

Red Sands Photography Club formed in 2010 and is made up of amateur and professional photographers from across Prince and Queens Counties. Members started meeting again this past fall, coming back together to fulfil the goals of monthly field trips, picture critiquing, and learning new skills that keep the membership engaged and challenged.

Two of the photographers featured in the exhibit are David Gladstone and Scott Clark.

Gladstone’s photographic journey started more than 60 years ago with a Kodak Brownie. For Clark, the photography journey began 10 years ago when he bought his first entry level DSLR camera with the intent to capture quality photos of his children growing up. Never did he imagine it was the start of the journey to becoming a family photographer.

Through Our Lens will be on view Tuesday–Saturday from 10 am–4 pm at the MacNaught History Centre and Archives, 75 Spring Street in Summerside. Some of the works are for sale. Admission is free.

Bailey Studio Gallery

New art studio and gallery opens in Little Sands

PEI-based artist Kathy Bailey has opened a new art studio and gallery in Eastern PEI.

Bailey Studio Gallery is a multi-faceted art space—a glaze oil painting studio, gallery, atelier and retailer of professional art supplies, located in Little Sands on the South shore.

The Gallery is one of the participating vendors in the Christmas in the Villages Holiday Market, a craft and vendor event taking place across multiple locations throughout the Murray Harbour and Murray River area December 2 and 3. (See Christmas In The Villages Down East PEI on FB for details).

The Gallery will host a Try ‘Em! Brush event on December 10 at 9 am, 11 am or 1:30 pm. Call for details and to book ahead. Atelier Glaze Oil lessons are also on offer.

Bailey Studio Gallery is open by appointment (962-3642), most Fridays from 12 noon–8 pm or Saturdays from 10 am–6 pm. It is located at 11957 Shore Road, Little Sands. Visit professionalart.ca for information, online

Photos by Scott Clark (above) and David Gladstone.

Limited edition

PEI artist Niyi Adeogun featured on Purolator’s holiday box

Double takes

Double Takes, a solo exhibition of photographs by Doug Dumais, is on display at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild in Charlottetown until December 21.

Purolator’s 2022 limited-edition holiday box designs celebrate emerging Canadian artists, including Niyi Adeogun of PEI.

Once again, last year’s artists each nominated a local artist to design the holiday boxes. This year’s collection spotlights the diverse ways families and communities eat, drink and celebrate the season together.

Adeogun is an interdisciplinary artist, design engineer and creative entrepreneur based in PEI. In 2017, his passion grew for digital and graphic art, leading him to plan and execute art shows across Canada through his agency, ZeroResistance Studios.

“The front of my holiday box is a sketch of a lighthouse on dunes, revealing the sharing of holiday meals together. PEI is believed to have the highest concentration of lighthouses in North America and is also known for sand dunes—that’s why I included those elements in my box,” said Adeogun. “The back features holiday fun of family and friends doing a slip and slide at PEI’s Mill River.”

As part of this year’s campaign, Purolator is donating $5000 to The Salvation Army in Charlottetown through its Purolator Tackle Hunger® program.

PEI artists Ashley Green and Renee Laprise have also been featured on past Purolator holiday boxes.

Holiday boxes are available nationwide. For more information on the artists, visit purolator.com/holidayspirit.

KARSI Fundraiser

World Human Rights Day is December 10 and to recognize this important day, and to help with their fundraising efforts, the Kensington & Area Refugee Sponsorship Initiative (KARSI) is hosting Street Food From Around The World from 6:30–10 pm at The Mill in New Glasgow.

Chef Emily Wells and her staff are once again donating their time and venue. Local shellfish (oysters and mussels) will be served, as well as food from different parts of the world. Jon Rehder and Tamara Steele will provide musical entertainment.

All proceeds will benefit KARSI to assist in their continuing effort to bring the family of Issack Hassan Aden from the refugee camp Dadaab in Kenya. Get tickets through eventbrite.ca and themillinnewglasgow.com.

At first glance, the images in Double Takes appear to be simple pictures of landscapes, flowers, construction sites, root systems, or stones. All images in the exhibition, however, have been heavily edited. Upon closer inspection, many photographs contain impossible repetitions and visual “glitches” that alter the reality they depict. Other supposedly straightforward images are composites of several pictures, thus representing non-existent landscapes and scenes.

The goal of Double Takes is to create photographic equivalents of rhyming stanzas of poetry or verses of songs. Similar to how songs or poems rhyme, several pieces in the exhibition contain echoes of their own details, creating internal rhythms and patterns. Other images in the show are photographic recreations of paintings by painters such as Nicolas Poussin (1594–1665) and Paul Cézanne (18391906), generating echoes that resonate beyond the work and across art history.

Though the editing in the images is seamless, these familiar scenes may become deeply unfamiliar once viewers notice the repetitions and inconsistencies. Double Takes thus transforms monotonous things such as trees, stones, and construction materials into events in the midst of a lively process of becoming. Ultimately, this exhibition

exploits photography’s artifice and revels in the medium’s capacity to trick or create fictional narratives.

Doug Dumais is a photographer based in Charlottetown, Epekwitk/ PEI, who documents spaces undergoing drastic changes, such as construction sites, eroding shorelines, and public institutions. A self-taught artist, Dumais holds an MA in Art History from Concordia University. He has exhibited at the Ottawa City Hall Art Gallery, Fais moi l’art, Galerie La Castiglione, this town is small, and Eptek Art & Culture Centre. dougdumais.com, @dougdumais

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Niyi Adeogun (right) and the Purolator holiday box for PEI

CHEZANNE, 2022 [detail] by Doug Dumais

Solo photo exhibition by Doug Dumais

Food Trends

Some pretty interesting food trends unfolded in 2022. We saw the rise of egg alternatives such as Just Egg, oat milk quickly became a favourite dairy alternative, and we denitely saw an increase in conventional restaurants pivoting to serve the growing demand for plant-based and vegan o erings. Some fantastic food trends are in store for 2023 as well. Here’s the roundup.

Pasta Alternatives

Of course, we know that eating vegetables is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Vegetables have a variety of health benefits that may help prevent chronic illnesses like cancer, heart disease, stroke and dementia. Dried plant-based pastas made from chickpeas and lentils are not new to the market, but they are quickly becoming a popular option. We can expect to see fresh noodles made from spaghetti squash, hearts of palm and even green bananas in the upcoming year.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a food that will more than likely never go out of style. Portobellos, shiitake and crimini mushrooms have long been popular. Moving forward, we can expect to see oyster mushrooms continue to be a favourite for their “meaty” texture and trumpet mushrooms will be making their mark on many menus.

Kelp

While Irish and Jamaican sea moss have become more mainstream over the last few years due to their health benefits, kelp is certainly gaining popularity quite quickly. Kelp varieties such as dulse and nori have been a staple food in Japanese cuisine for a very long time but it’s not something that seems to be utilised in other cuisines. That will more than likely change in 2023, with kelp chips and kelp noodles, gaining traction in the mainstream food market.

Dates

Dates have been around for thousands of years, but we’re now seeing them rise in popularity in many different forms. You can expect to see date

products in a variety of different products like date syrup, date paste and even dehydrated dates sweeping the market, as an alternative sweetener. You may even begin to find them in unexpected places like barbeque sauces!

Swicy Food

Not sure about you, but I was today years old when I heard about this term. Swicy is a trend that will take rise in the upcoming year as a sweet and spicy flavour combo. We can thank the ingenuity of Korean cuisine for this collision of flavours! The term “swicy” generally refers to this flavour combination in a single entree, dessert or side but we will definitely see the swicy trend becoming popular in the sauce department, as well. Move over, sweet chilli sauce!

Regenerative Food

This is a welcome trend, as we hopefully move towards more sustainable agriculture practices that consider biodiversity and soil regeneration over profit margins. I believe consumers are becoming more concerned about where their food comes from and how it is produced, so this will have a positive impact on how we choose to interact with our food systems in the coming years.

Six to watch for in 2023

EXHIBITS

Acadian Museum of PEI

Hale-toi une chaise! Pull up a chair!, a hybrid exhibit mixing new pieces made by members of the public and the museum’s own artifacts collection, will be on view to the end of Feb. Also on view is the permanent exhibit and video The Island Acadians: The Story of a People Acadian genealogy resources are available to researchers. A PEI Museum and Heritage site. 23 Main Dr. E, Miscouche. museeacadien.org

The Breadalbane Gallery

On view beginning Dec 9 are works by local artists Haley Lewis, Zoe Novaczek, Becka Viau, Vian Emery, Marianne Janowicz, William Baker, Adrianna Chandler, Joan Sutton and others. The opening reception is Dec 9 from 6–8 pm with music by Jon Rehder. 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane. breadalbanegallery.com

Confederation Centre Art Gallery

On view: Dreaming Machines, featuring work by Carol Fraser, Joshim Kakegamic, Patrick Landsley, Stephen B. MacInnis, Dodi Morris, Norval Morrisseau, Herbert Siebner, Norman Takeuchi and Esther

DECEMBER EXHIBITIONS

DREAMING MACHINES

Continues to January 22, 2023

RE:VISITING

Continues to February 4, 2023

SURABHI GHOSH: WHAT’S MINE IS YOURS

Continues to February 26, 2023

WHILE BLACK: A FORUM FOR SPECULATION ON WHAT THE GALLERY CAN’T HOLD

Continues to March 5, 2023

HOLIDAY HOURS

The Gallery will be open over the holidays December 28, 29 and 30 from 10 am to 5pm.

galleries and museums

Warkov, to Jan 22; RE: visiting to Feb 4; Surabhi Ghosh: What’s Mine is Yours to Feb 26; and While Black: a forum for speculation on what the gallery can’t hold, featuring 17 artists including PEI-based artists Niyi Adeogun, Selecta Chevron, Robin Gislain, King Kxndi, Sammo Mossa, Baha Royalty and Reequal Smith, to Mar 5. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown. confederationcentre.com

Cornwall Library Art Gallery

Call for participants: youth in the Cornwall area are invited to submit one piece of art for the Youth Art Exhibit. Drop-off deadline is Dec 2 at 5 pm. Meet the young artists at the opening on Dec 6 at 7 pm. On Jan 10 at 7 pm, meet artist Laura MacPhail to celebrate the opening of her exhibit, Peaceful Art Creations

Contact the library for info on displaying in the gallery. 15 Mercedes Dr, Town Hall, Cornwall. 629-8415, library.pe.ca

Eptek Art & Culture Centre

On view: Still Quilting Forward, featuring work from members of the PEI Modern Quilt Guild; and Wartime Memories from Prince County, highlighting WWII artifacts, in partnership with the PEI Regiment Museum. Visit the permanent

exhibition at Eptek on the history and architecture of Summerside. Admission is by donation. The site is open year-round. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. 888-8373, peimuseum.com

Hilda Woolnough Gallery

On view: Double Takes, a solo exhibition by photographer Doug Dumais to Dec 21. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown. theguildpei.com

Lefurgey Cultural Centre

On view: Through Our Lens, a group exhibit by the Red Sands Photography Club members, is on view through Dec and Jan. Meet the Artist Night is Dec 6, 6:30–8 pm. 205 Prince St, Summerside.

Native Council of PEI

An art show featuring Indigenous Island artists of all mediums and skills levels will be held Dec 2 from 4–9 pm at the NCPEI Programming Office. Fine art, paint, leather, fibre art, pottery, spoken word, found objects, poetry, beading, etc. To participate, artists must register by Nov 30 at sundanceview@icloud.com. 614 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

this town is small

Presented by this town is small, Translations by PEI artist Damien Worth continues to Dec 13 at Receiver Coffee. 128 Richmond St, Charlottetown. thistownissmall.com

Holiday workshops

A series of holiday workshops will take place at the Cavendish Visitor Information Centre this month.

A Wreath Making workshop with Marie Dow will take place Dec 4 from 2–4 pm. Learn the art of wreath making from a local expert. A DIY Sign Making workshop will take place Dec 11 from 1–3 pm. Paint and assemble a Christmas and holiday themed sign. All designs are 15″ round. There will only be one sign to choose from “Good Tidings of Comfort & Joy.” A Centrepiece Making workshop with Marie Dow will take place Dec 17 from 2–4 pm. Learn the art of live centrepiece making. Coffee, tea and local sweets will be provided to all attendees. Register online at eventbrite.ca (search Tourism Cavendish Beach). Cavendish Visitor Information Centre, 7591 Cawnpore Ln, Cavendish

River Clyde Solstice Walk workshops

The third edition of the River Clyde Solstice Walk returns to New Glasgow from 6–8 pm on Dec 21, with a procession of illuminated lanterns, outdoor performances, food and bonfires. The Solstice Walk programming includes a series of free public workshops for all ages. Ian McFarlane will lead two Dogwood Lantern Design workshops: Dec 9, 6–9 pm, in Charlottetown (venue tbd); and Dec 16, 6–9 pm, at The Mill in New Glasgow. Participants will be guided through a multi-step process in advanced, yet accessible sculpting techniques to build their own lantern. Artist and designer Lokki Ma will lead two LanternMaking for Little Ones workshops, Dec 11, 1–2:30 pm, at the Summerside Rotary Library and Dec 18, 1–2:30 pm, at The Mill in New Glasgow. Younger children will create a Solstice lantern from a simple design. Monelli Rahmatian will lead the Celebrate the Solstice through Dance workshop at DownStreet Dance Studio in Charlottetown on Dec 9, 4:30–5:30 pm Participants will give thanks to the past seasons and welcome winter through creative movement. Monelli will also lead a Persian Cooking workshop on Dec 18, 10:30 am–12:30 pm, followed by a shared meal at The Mill in New Glasgow.

Participants will learn about Persian foods and Solstice traditions while cooking and eating together. Pre-registration is required to attend the Walk and the workshops. To register, visit riverclydepageant. com/solstice-walk. An access guide is also available online, detailing the accessibility measures offered at the event.

Pottery in the Park

The winter session of classes at the PEI Potters Studio, located in Victoria Park in Charlottetown, will begin the week of Jan 9 and registration will be held online on Dec 13 from 7–9 pm. Perfect for beginners as well as those with previous experience, classes are taught by professional Island potters and are designed to be fun as well as educational. Classes are small in size and relaxed and informal in style. The class covers the basics of clay preparation, wheel-throwing techniques, and glazing and decoration. Hand-building techniques can also be explored depending on interest. A great way to relieve stress and enhance creativity while learning a new skill, participants will have the opportunity to create their own pieces from start to finish. Adult beginner classes will be held on Mondays and Thursdays (choose one) from 6:30–9:30 pm. A class for children ages 9–14 will be held on Saturdays from 10 am–12 pm beginning Jan 7. All classes run for 10 weeks. Once the registration period is over, everyone who has signed up for adult classes will be entered into a software program that will choose names randomly. Those who have been randomly chosen will be contacted as soon as possible. Up to date information on the class schedule, as well as the link to the online registration form, will be posted on our website at peipottersstudio.com. Email questions to registration@ peipottersstudio.com.

Life Drawing sessions

Life Drawing sessions will be held on two Sundays in Dec (4 and 11) at the Gertrude Cotton Art Centre from 2– 4 pm (weather permitting, check their FB page). Drop-in drawing sessions with nude model. All skill levels welcome. Must be 18+ or have parent/guardian written permission. Easels are provided but participants must bring their own drawing material. They are always looking for models, reach out if interested. Follow on FB @Life Drawing PEI or email lifedrawingpei2022@gmail.com. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford.

CHARLOTTETOWN FARMERS MARKET

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11th & 18th 10am – 3pm

CRAFT FAIRS, etc

Christmas in the Villages Holiday Market

Christmas in the Villages Holiday Market

on Dec 2 (6–9 pm) and Dec 3 (9 am–2 pm) is a Christmas craft and vendor event taking place across multiple locations throughout Murray Harbour and Murray River. This year there are seven vendor locations: Memorial United Church, Salvage Garden Consignment, Mill & Birch, Northumberland Arena, Murray River Community Hall, Murray Harbour Community Centre, and Bailey Studio Gallery. Local restaurants and accommodations are offering specials over the weekend. Follow Christmas In The Villages Down East PEI on FB for details.

Ho Ho Ho Christmas Craft Fair 2022

The 7th annual Ho Ho Ho Christmas Craft Fair featuring local craft vendors will take place Dec 2 (4–9 pm) and Dec

JANUARY DEADLINE

Monday, December 12

3 (9 am–4 pm) at the APM Centre, 35 Mercedes Dr, Cornwall.

Christmas Bazaar

Our Lady of the Assumption CWL will hold its Annual Christmas Bazaar at Assumption Parish Centre in Stratford on Dec 3 from 10:30 am–12:30 pm. There will be a sale of home-baked goods, jams, jellies, pickles, fudge, crafts, holly, used books, puzzles, jewelery, and scarves, and tickets on gift baskets and silent auction items. Free admission.

Camp Genche Christmas Craft Fair

The Camp Gencheff Christmas Craft Fair will take place Dec 3 from 12 noon–4 pm. The event will feature crafts, baked goods, a 50/50 draw, raffle baskets, and more. Admission is by donation. 38 Gencheff Camp Rd, Stratford.

Marché de Noël

Local artisans and crafters will be showcased at the Marché de Noël on Dec 3 from 10 am–2 pm at the Centre acadien Grand-Rustico. The event will include a cantine bistro, children’s concert with Art Richard, raffle tickets for Christmas baskets, and more. Admission is free but attendees are encouraged to bring food bank donations. 2244 Church Rd, Rte 243.

Spring Park Holiday Market

Spring Park United is holding a Holiday Market in the Church Auditorium on Dec 3 from 9 am–12 noon. In addition to homemade baked goods, jams, jellies, pickles and fudge, there will be Christmas decorations, games and puzzles, crafts, jewellery and gently used gift items. Bring your own bag. 65 Kirkwood Dr, Charlottetown (Trafalgar St entrance).

Etsy Holiday Market

The Etsy Holiday Market hosted by Etsy Team PEI will take place Dec 3–4 from 10 am–5 pm daily at the Delta Prince Edward. 18 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Festive Fair in Fortune

The Festive Fair in Fortune will take place Dec 3–4 from 10 am–4 pm daily at the Fortune Community Centre. Find crafts, baked goods and more. 220 Fortune Wharf Rd N, Fortune Bridge.

Benevolent Irish Society Christmas Craft Fair and Tea

The Benevolent Irish Society Christmas Craft Fair and Tea will take place Dec 4 from 1–4 pm at the Irish Cultural Centre. Enter the gift basket draw for a chance to win. To book a table or for more info, email roneykathy@gmail.com or call 314-8840. Admission at the door includes a ticket for a chance to win a door prize. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

Beacons eld Holiday Craft Fair

The Beaconsfield Holiday Craft Fair will take place Dec 9, 10, 16 and 17, from 10 am–4 pm daily, at Beaconsfield’s Carriage House. Located next to the Beaconsfield Victorian mansion on the water by Victoria Park in Charlottetown, the event will feature many of the Island’s leading artists and artisans. Celebrate the holiday season and enjoy a cozy shopping experience featuring crafts and products from 12 local craft vendors. Admission is by donation with proceeds going to purchase and install baby change tables in the Carriage House washrooms. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Summerside Yuletide Village Winter Crafters Fair

The Summerside Yuletide Village will celebrate local artisans this gift giving season with the inclusion of a Winter Crafters Fair at the Yuletide Village in Memorial Park on December 10 from 3-5 pm. Follow the City of Summerside and Downtown Summerside the social media accounts for updates. 89 Summer St, Summerside

Artisan Christmas Market

The Artisan Christmas Market, featuring local craftspeople, will be held Dec 11 and 18 from 10 am–3 pm at the Charlottetown Farmers Market. Free admission and parking. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

Annual Jingle Bell Walk

The City of Charlottetown will host the 27th Annual Jingle Bell Walk on December 2, including live music and family-friendly activities. The event will begin at 6:30 pm at the West Royalty Community Centre (1 Kirkdale Dr, Charlottetown) with a tree lighting to start the evening. Families are invited to take part in a self-guided walk and read the featured StoryWalk book, The Little Reindeer by Nicola Killen, which will remain on display for the month of December. Everyone is encouraged to bring a flashlight to light the path and a bell for some holiday jingle. Activities for the whole family will take place inside the West Royalty Community Centre from 6:30–8:00 pm, including inflatable activity centres, writing letters to Santa, cookie decorating and live entertainment by the Music Man. Light refreshments will be provided. All activities are free and open to all ages. Info: 368-1025

Living Nativity in Canoe Cove

A drive-thru Living Nativity will take place December 2, 3 and 4 from 5:30–8 pm each day at the farm of Chrys and Doreen Jenkins in Canoe Cove (6452 Rte 19). Bring the family and experience the amazing light show, the charming live nativity scene, the community choir singing favourite Christmas carols, and a special Mi’kmaq drumming event on Saturday evening, December 3. Admission is by donation and all proceeds to go to Anderson House.

Festive open house at Harbourforont

Summerside’s Harbourfront Theatre will host their first ever festive open house on December 4 from 12 noon–5 pm. Holiday at Harbourfront will be an opportunity for members of the local community to meet the Harbourfront team over festive refreshments and see parts of the theatre that are rarely open to the public. Take a backstage tour, buy gifts from local retailers, and get exclusive discounts on tickets for upcoming productions. Live music will be performed throughout the afternoon. No booking is required for Holiday at Harbourfront.

Victorian Christmas at Beacons eld

Experience Victorian Christmas through the sights, sounds, smells and tastes that the original residents of Beaconsfield House would have enjoyed around the holidays. Join a costumed guide for an interactive tour that explores traditional Christmas décor, element of class, culinary history, Christmas lore and traditions, and entertainment. One-hour tours will run December 9–10 and 16–17 at 10 am, 11:30 am, 1 pm, 2:30 pm and 4 pm daily. Admission includes a tasty treat made from a historic recipe and live

music. Pre-book a time slot at peimuseumshop.ca/products/victorian-christmas-at-beaconsfield. This program is intended for adult audiences but is appropriate for ages eight and up.

Community Christmas Brunch at Carrefour

Carrefour de l’Isle-Saint-Jean will host their Community Christmas Brunch on December 11 from 9 am–2 pm. 5 Acadian Drive, Charlottetown. All are welcome. Info: carrefourisj.org

IRSA Christmas Social

Join friends new and old to celebrate the holidays with Immigrant & Refugee Services Association PEI (IRSA) on December 17 fom 3–5 pm, second floor Confederation Court Mall, Charlottetown. Attendees can enjoy the entertainment, tasty treats, and a visit from Santa.

Kirk Christmas Cream Tea

The Kirk Christmas Cream Tea will be held December 17 from 3–4:30 pm at St. James Presbyterian. Guests will enjoy traditional cream tea, scones, preserves, lemon curd, Devonshire cream and assorted sweets in a beautifully decorated space. There will be gentle music, a seasonal reading, and a door prize for light entertainment. Gluten-free options can be offered if arranged in advance. Seat or table options are available. 35 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown. To register, call 892-2839 or visit Fundraiser.support/ KirkCreamTea2022

Festive wreaths & the Festival of Trees

The Friends of the Confederation Centre of the Arts’ Festive Wreath exhibition continues at the Centre in Charlottetown until December 18. Wreaths were crafted by adults, youth, and groups, and include the themes of traditional, green living using recycled materials, Off The Wall, sponsored by The Dunes, and more. The Festival of Trees features over 20 themed Christmas and Holiday trees decorated by The Friends volunteers. They brighten the concourses of Confederation Centre and will remain on display until New Years. A project of The Friends of Confederation Centre. Info: 628-6141 or friends@confederationcentre.com

Holiday Dreams, A Spectacular Holiday Cirque

Holiday Dreams, A Spectacular Holiday Cirque is coming to the Eastlink Centre in Charlottetown on December 22. The show features holograms, projection mapping, holiday music and lasers, along with a cast of acrobats, daredevils, and cirque-performers. Order tickets by phone at 629-6625, online at eastlinkcentrepei.com, or at the box office, 46 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.

Charlottetown Library Learning Centre

O cial opening celebrated in November

Islanders gathered November 9 to celebrate the official opening of the new Charlottetown Library Learning Central (CLLC).

The new centre is 42,000 square feet, more than triple the size of the former Confederation Centre Public Library, allowing for a larger collection of books, DVDs and e-books, extra space and new technology. It covers the entire ground floor of the Dominion Building in the heart of downtown Charlottetown.

The centre includes added meeting and study rooms, a multipurpose auditorium, a boardroom, new maker space, a kitchen, outdoor seating, a podcast recording booth, a gaming zone, the new children’s library and programming space, multiple technology areas for computers and tablets, The Shed café and rental opportunities.

“Our group has been working on the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre project for more than four years,” said CLLC Inc. Board Chair, Brian Howatt. “We were excited about the potential when we first presented the concept of the facility, and the reality today is even more than we had imagined. This new facility will provide the people of Charlottetown and the entire province with a truly worldclass facility, and we are very thankful for the support of all the financial partners and supporters.”

This modern and innovative facility was made possible thanks to federal, provincial and municipal funding, as well as major fundraising efforts by the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre Inc.

For full details of provincial library programming, follow them on socials @PEI Public Library Service.

Eptek Film Series

The Friends of Eptek Centre’s Lunchtime Film series continues to the end of April. The films, mostly travelogues, are screened on Thursdays at noon at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside. There will be some new films, as well as some from late Friend, Blanche Hogg, and there is no charge. Upcoming screenings include: Wanderers of the Deep: Dolphins distributed by Reader’s Digest (Dec 1); 15 Capital Cities to Check Out: Madrid, Spain (8); Exploring Antarctica (15); and The Legends of Santa (Christmas Documentary) Real Stories (Dec 22). Eptek Centre is a site of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation and is located at 130 Heather Moyse Drive in Summerside.

Prince County Soldier’s Monument presentation

To mark the 100th anniversary of the Prince County Soldiers’ Monument, Culture Summerside commissioned Summerside musician Peter Gallant to create an original musical composition capturing the emotions of the bronze soldier. Gallant paired his musical composition with monument visuals to create the multimedia presentation, “… and yet with courage.” The presentation is now available for public viewing at culturesummerside.ca, or on Culture Summerside’s YouTube channel.

Decision to Leave

December 2–6

14A, coarse language and violence. Dir: Park Chan-wook, South Korea, 2022, 138 min. Tang Wei, Park Hae-il, Lee Junghyun. In Korean, Chinese with English subtitles.

Cannes Film Festival Winner, Best Director.

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, and share feedback!

Advance Tickets

Please visit our website at citycinema.ca, we accept all major credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema. Seating may be limited, advance tickets are strongly recommended.

Subject to Change

Film availability and showtimes are subject to change. Please check our website and book tickets in advance.

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. Please fill out the form under Venue Rental on our website and we’ll respond with information and rates.

Admission

Regular $11.00

Member $8.00

65 and over $8.00

14 and under $8.00

We now accept credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema

Annual membership - $25.00

What happens when an object of suspicion becomes a case of obsession? Park Chan-wook (Oldboy) returns with a seductive romantic thriller that takes his renowned stylistic flair to dizzying new heights. From a mountain peak in South Korea, a businessman plummets to his death. Did he jump, or was he pushed? When detective Hae-joon arrives on the scene, he begins to suspect the dead man’s wife Seo-rae may know more than she initially lets on. But as he digs deeper into the investigation, he finds himself trapped in a web of deception and desire, proving that the darkest mysteries lurk inside the human heart. With nods toward classic Hollywood and Hitchcock’s Vertigo, Decision to Leave is infused with elegance, ingenuity and a knife-edge precision. “Park dazzles you with the beauty of his images and the intoxicating bravura of his unfettered imagination. And then, just when you think you have found your bearings, he unmoors you yet once more, blowing minds and shattering hearts, yours included.” Manohla Dargis, New York Times. “A spry police procedural fused with an achingly intense romance, Decision To Leave keeps you o -kilter throughout, in the best possible way. Make a decision to see it.” Empire

The Banshees of Inisherin

December 7–11 & 13–18

14A, coarse language and violence. Dir: Martin McDonagh, Ireland/UK/US, 2022, 114 min. Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Barry Keoghan, Kerry Condon. San Diego International Film Festival Winner, Audience Award.

Venice Film Festival Winner, Best Screenplay and Best Actor.

“14 years a er In Bruges, Martin McDonagh has reunited with Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, only this time it’s di erent. Once again his work follows a pair of Irishmen, and the script is so profane it’s almost poetic, but instead of hitmen’s murderous exploits it’s about a squabble between friends in the 1920s—and the result is arguably McDonagh’s most mature film yet. On the fictional island of Inisherin in 1923, Pádraic (Farrell) is a cow farmer who meets his friend Colm (Gleeson) every day in the local pub. They make an odd pair, with Pádraic perhaps not the sharpest tool in the box and Colm a thoughtful and brooding chap with a love of music—but by all accounts they are close. That is until, one day, Colm gives his pal the cold shoulder and tells him that their friendship is over… From wallowing by the fire with his donkey to drunkenly confronting Colm, Farrell is the perfect self-pitying hangdog… Pádraic is arguably one of his greatest roles… Gleeson too is a captivating and commanding screen presence.” —Max Copeman, Radio Times (UK)

Neil Young: Harvest Time

December 10 & 12

Rating TBA. Dir: Bernard Shakey, US, 2022, 125 min. Neil Young, Jack Nitzsche, Ben Keith, Tim Drummond. $15 Regular, $12 Member/Senior/Child

“Zoe Lucas has been captivated by the ecology of Sable Island, o the Nova Scotia coast, since her youth. She is now its only full-time inhabitant and spends her days watching the wild horses, seals, and birds who make Sable Island their home... While many excellent nature documentaries capture the extremes of life on earth, nothing seems extreme about Sable Island at first glance: the grass is green and plentiful, and gently rolling hills give way to beaches. However, the far northern latitude and relentless freezing gusts cultivate a stoicism in Lucas and a hardiness in the animals... The camera captures the almost unfathomable stillness of an island only inhabited in observation. Its harsh beauty is arresting, and the horses (majestic and moody) and seals (endearingly raucous and comically proportioned) are fascinating subjects... An exquisitely composed look at a fragile yet characterful ecosystem and one woman’s home within it, Geographies of Solitude marvels in natural lifecycles and communal survival.” —Carmen Paddock, One Room With A View

The Menu

December 26–Jan 1

14A, coarse language and violence. Dir: Mark Mylod, US, 2022, 107 min. Ralph Fiennes, Anya Taylor-Joy, Nicholas Hoult, John Leguizamo.

Created between January and September 1971, this docu-film shows Young at his Broken Arrow Ranch in North California during the Harvest Barn sessions, his London performance with the London Symphony Orchestra, and working on Harvest songs in Nashville. Performance and rehearsal content is intertwined into creative storytelling and includes most of the tracks from Harvest including ‘Heart of Gold’, ‘Alabama’ and ‘Old Man’. In addition to the film, this screening event includes an introduction by Neil Young, recorded exclusively for movie theatre audiences. Hear Neil highlight the significance of Harvest, 50 years a er its release, and how the recording of the album and the movie came together.

Geographies of Solitude

December 17 & 19–20

Rating TBA. Dir: Jacquelyn Mills, Canada, 2022, 103 min, Zoe Lucas. Hot Docs 2022 Winner, Best Canadian Feature Doc, & Emerging Canadian Filmmaker Award.

“Mark Mylod’s latest film is as nasty as it is hilarious as he sends up haute cuisine and the superficial world that’s grown around it. As a small group of diners step o a boat onto Hawthorne Island, a secluded 12-acres of foodie goodness, they give one another a smug acknowledgement. They are the one percent of the one percent who are not only able to a ord the $1,250-per-head pricetag, but also are able to secure an invitation to this exclusive meal… Hawthorne’s front of house manager Elsa impresses upon them the brilliance of Chef Julian Slowik (Ralph Fiennes). The eclectic group, including a trio of tech bros, a washed-up movie star, a renowned restaurant critic, and Instagram foodie Tyler, are all suitably impressed. The exception is Margot, the lone guest not on the list… When the true nature of Chef’s menu comes to light, everyone, including Margot, are forced to reckon with their own self-indulgence and assumed superiority... Seith Reiss and Will Tracy write a biting script full of sharp dialogue

and imaginative twists that draws gasps and laughs throughout the film… The cast savour every moment on screen. Fiennes and Taylor-Joy lead with two strong and nuanced performances … Chau, Leguizamo and Hoult are absolutely hilarious… The Menu is truly a dish best served in a packed theatre” —Rachel Ho, Exclaim!

The 2022-2023 New York Cat Film Festival

December 26, 28, 31 & Jan 2

PG, most films in English, other languages are subtitled. Dir: Various.

International, 2022, 102 min.

10% of Box O ce will be donated to the P.E.I.

Classics at City Cinema

Presented by Laurent Gariépy

city cinema schedule

DECEMBER

Pitch For Your Life winner

Katie Mac wins PEI Screenwriters’ Bootcamp competition

Christmas movies

In collaboration with Discover Charlottetown. The Christmas movie tradition will continue this year with the following screenings!

Humane Society.

The NY Cat Film Festival is an exploration through film of the fascinating felines who share our lives, creating a shared audience experience that inspires, educates and entertains. Cats have their own unique and indescribable bond with people—even when living independently as community cats. For far too long, felines have been the ‘invisible’ part of the human-animal bond and it’s time to shine the spotlight on these magnificent creatures and the humans devoted to them. A portion of every ticket at every destination goes to a local animal welfare non-profit, bringing community awareness and support for the needs of local kitties. This year’s Festival had the most international submissions of any year yet, with films from Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Iran, Italy, Kuwait, Malta, Poland, Spain, Taiwan, the UK.

The 2022-2023 New York Dog Film Festival

December 27 & 29

PG, most films in English, other languages are subtitled. Dir: Various.

International, 2022, 108 min.

10% of Box O ce will be donated to the P.E.I. Humane Society.

Meet me in St. Louis with Judy Garland; the 1938 MGM version of A Christmas Carol; National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation; White Christmas with Bing Crosby; The Polar Express; Gremlins; Elf with Will Farrell & James Caan; & Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life with James Stewart.

Spielberg’s Catch Me If You Can (Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio) turns 20 this year. It may not be a usual Christmas movie, but there’s a big chunk of it happening during the holidays so we’re including it in our Christmas screenings! And Tim Burton’s Batman Returns starring Michael Keaton will be co-hosted by The Comic Hunter (Date and time listed in showtime schedule on side)

Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home

December 2, 9:30 pm. Dir: Leonard Nimoy, US, 1986, William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy.Returning to Earth to stand trial for their previous actions, the former crew of the USS Enterprise finds the planet in great danger. Sponsored by The Hollywood Suite.

Tangerine

December 30, 9 pm. Dir: Sean Baker, US, 2015, Kitana Kiki Rodriguez, Mya Taylor.On Christmas Eve, a sex worker discovers her boyfriend and pimp has been cheating on her. Presented by Lacuna Events.

of Inisherin

Catch Me If You Can

Banshees of Inisherin

White Christmas

Neil Young: Harvest…

Polar Express

Banshees of Inisherin

Neil Young: Harvest…

Banshees of Inisherin

Banshees of Inisherin

Banshees of Inisherin

Batman Returns

Banshees of Inisherin

Gremlins

Geographies of…

Elf

Banshees of Inisherin

Banshees of Inisherin

Geographies of…

Geographies of…

It’s A Wonderful Life

CLOSED

CLOSED

CLOSED

CLOSED

NY Cat Film Festival

The Menu

NY Dog Film Festival

The Menu

NY Cat Film Festival

The Menu

Katie Mac of Charlottetown won the Pitch for Your Life competition at ScriptFest PEI recently. Katie was awarded a prize of $15K from Innovation PEI to create a proof of concept for her feature film, Currie

Her screenplay is a Western set in the late 1800’s based on the true story of Prince Edward Island’s very own Hole-in-the-wall gang member, Flatnose Currie. A young, adventurous Currie left PEI in search of excitement and found it when he joined the infamous band of robbers headed by Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. He spent the rest of his life trying to get back home.

Katie competed against four very worthy PEI screenwriters who will continue to work on their scripts that were initially developed at the annual PEI Screenwriters’ Bootcamp.

The NY Dog Film Festival is an annual philanthropic celebration of the love between dogs and their people. The Festival is a program of short films with a canine theme—a medley of animated, documentary and narrative films from around the world. The Festival premieres every year at a theater in New York City and then travels to theaters in cities across the United States and Canada, with a portion of every ticket benefiting a local rescue devoted to canine welfare. This was the most competitive year ever, with 64 submissions of films from all over the world— Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Iran Islamic Republic, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Russian Federation, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, and Turkey.

NY Dog Film Festival

The Menu

The Menu

Tangerine

NY Cat Film Festival

The Menu

ScriptFest PEI is a recent FilmPEI event that was held in collaboration with the Charlottetown Film Festival. The industry jury consisted of: Paige Murray (Executive, DevelopmentDrama, CBC); Tom Shoebridge (Screenwriter); Chris Kelley (Head of Development - Comedy, Bell Media); and Catherine Moreau (Manager, Independent Production Fund). peiscreenwritersbootcamp.net filmpei.com.

Monday, December 12

Katie Mac, 2022 winner of the Pitch For Your Life Competition.

SUBMITTED

READERS / WRITERS

Eptek Centre Book Club

The members of the Eptek Centre Book Club will meet Dec 1 at 7 pm to discuss the book Us Against You by Fredrik Backman. Eptek Art & Culture Centre is a PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation site. 130 Heather Moyse Dr in Summerside Info: 888-8373, peimuseum.com, @EptekCentre on FB

Book launch: Crescent Moon Friends

Author Mo Duffy Cobb and artist Lisa Lypowy will launch their new children’s book, Crescent Moon Friends, on Dec 3 in Charlotteown. Cobb teamed up with Afghan journalist Wadia Samadi and Lypowy to tell the story of two best friends, Amelia and Aisha, who are “Crescent Moon Friends.” With one child from Canada and the other from Afghanistan, the girls reconcile their differences through exploration of the values they share. This book initiates a family conversation about Islam, explores tradition and language, and brings the girls closer together as a result. It is hoped that the book will be used as a teaching tool to help children understand the cultural backgrounds of others, and to create a warm environment for refugees resettling in Atlantic Canada from the Middle East. The launch will be held

ScriptFest PEI results

Three-day inaugural FilmPEI event proves a success

at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild from 10 am–12 noon on Dec 3.

Book

launch:

Marlene Campbell

PEI author Marlene Campbell will launch her book, Memories of Christmas, at 1 pm on Dec 3 at the Summerside Interpretive Centre. All are welcome. 33 Summer St, Summerside.

Book

signing:

J.T. Goddard

PEI author J.T. Goddard will be signing and selling copies of his books, including his new novelette, Piracy, and his latest novel, Missing, at the Artisan Christmas Market on Dec 11 and 18 from 10 am–3 pm. Charlottetown Farmers Market, 100 Belvedere Ave. timgoddard.ca

Book signing: Victoria Goddard

Island author Victoria Goddard will be signing copies of her books, including her latest release, At the Feet of the Sun, at the Artisan Christmas Market on December 11 and 18 from 10 am–3 pm. Charlottetown Farmers Market, 100 Belvedere Ave. victoriagoddard.ca

Creative writing workshop

A creative writing workshop, Lyrics & Letters with Linda McLean, will take place Dec 2 from 10 am–3 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House. The workshop is for those who want to try their hand at writing a song (or poem, story or even a love letter), and those who might not think of themselves as writers but wonder if they have it in them. This oneday workshop will teach attendees how to dig deep and write freely from their imaginations and onto the page, writing that will be meaningful to them and potentially the world. The journey begins with Linda’s unique ”Mining for Gold” lyric writing process, where participants will move through creative blocks and find limitless resonant material for their writing projects. One-to-one mentoring from Linda will help shape ideas into a basic structure and participants will have the opportunity to give and receive feedback with other participants in a safe and supportive creative setting. The intensive workshop is an experiential deep dive that will connect attendees with their creative muse. Email linda@lindamclean. com to register and receive the information package with more details. Linda McLean will also perform a concert, Lyrics and Letters, at Beaconsfield on Dec 1 at 7:30 pm. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown

The results from ScriptFest PEI, a recent FilmPEI event held in collaboration with the Charlottetown Film Festival, have shown that the film and television industy is alive and well on the Island.

The three-day event offered screenwriters and directors a chance to immerse themselves in exchanges with industry representatives and other screenwriters, directors, editors and producers. One of the many activities held during the event was the Pitch for Your Life competition. The winner, Katie Mac, earned a prize of $15K from Innovation PEI to create a proof of concept for her feature film, Currie

Day one included a professional table read of Justin O’Hanley’s RBC award-winning script, The Secret of Ridgewood Resort. Six actors read through the script, giving O’Hanley the opportunity to listen to both the action and the dialogue, and assess the areas that worked and those that needed to be revisited. The exercise was well received and will be very helpful in further development. A Screenwriters’ Circle also took place on day one. Lulu Keating, a long-time filmmaker and established screenwriter, facilitated a conversation with Andrew Perry (A Small Fortune) and Luc Trottier, (In My Heart) both local screenwriters who shared their journeys in getting their work produced.

PEI industry representatives from Innovation PEI and FilmPEI, as well as Sarah Quann (Executive Development Comedy, CBC), gathered on day two to meet with attendees.

“The inaugural ScriptFest PEI was a pleasure to attend. Louise did great work organizing my sessions and I was able to meet with many screenwriters and producers,” sais Quann. “There are extraordinary storytellers in PEI and I look forward to continuing to connect with all thefantastic talent theEast Coast has to offer. Overall, the experience was very valuable, and I would love to attend again inthe future!”

In an effort to reach a larger audience, ScriptFest offered three virtual talks: Cynthia Knight (screenwriter/ instructor, Knight Films) talked about giving and taking notes; Scott Carlson (Carlson Entertainment) shed some light on the role of a manager in the film industry; and Michael Baker (Level Films) gave a presentation on the role a distributor plays in the industry. The recorded sessions are available at peiscreenwritersbootcamp. net/scriptfest-pei.

The final day included a Master Class on writing comedy—Spinning Your Pain into Comedy Gold, offered by Daniela Saioni. The class had 15

writers from PEI and NS in attendance. ScriptFest PEI organizer Louise Lalonde, would like to remind everyone that, “FilmPEI offers training and support for individuals interested in filmmaking whether they are interested in writing, recording video or sound, lighting, script supervision, producing—the list is endless when it comes to creating content for screens of all sizes, and anyone interested in filmmaking should look at the FilmPEI website and take advantage of the opportunities on offer.”

peiscreenwritersbootcamp.net filmpei.com

A Hallmark experience

PEI’s Morgan Saunders in Christmas movie

Ten-year-old PEI actor Morgan Saunders recently wrapped the Hallmark Christmas movie, Twas the Night Before Christmas, filmed in Ottawa. Saunders plays the role of Josie, the daughter of the film’s lead actors, Torrey DeVitto and Zane Holtz. Saunders completed a short film in New Brunswick this fall, and finished scenes for a local tv show, as well as a campaign/commercial for World Wildlife Fund in Toronto.

Twas the Night Before Christmas will air December 17. Islanders can watch on the W Network, Stack TV on Prime, or on the Global TV App.

PEI actor Morgan Saunders (middle) with Twas the Night Before Christmas lead actors Torrey DeVitto (left) and Zane Holtz.

by Sean McQuaid

Holiday viewing

12 days of Christmas movies

Christmas movie fans often focus on beloved classics that folks see every year, like It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) and A Christmas Carol (1951); but there’s plenty of lesser-known holiday icks well worth watching, especially circa Hollywood’s golden age. Here are 12 great examples from that era…

Remember the Night (1940)

This melancholy-tinged romantic comedy stars Fred MacMurray as a prosecutor who falls for a shoplifter (Barbara Stanwyck) when circumstances force them to spend the holidays together.

The Shop Around the Corner (1940) Jimmy Stewart and Margaret Sullivan play feuding rival sales clerks who are unwittingly corresponding with each other as anonymous romantic pen pals in this charming Christmas comedy.

Holiday Inn (1942)

Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire star in this musical where a heartbroken showman creates the titular inn, an entertainment venue open only on holidays. Features original songs by Irving Berlin, including the debut of his iconic “White Christmas.”

The Man Who Came to Dinner (1942)

Monty Woolley is hilarious as pompously acerbic intellectual Sheridan Whiteside, a big city critic whose slipand-fall injury during a small-town public appearance finds him recuperating over the holidays in the home of a local family. Bette Davis also stars.

The Curse of the Cat People (1944)

Producer Val Lewton helms this psychological drama with ripples of dark fantasy as a lonely misfit child forms strange, dangerous friendships with a reclusive elderly actress and a hauntingly familiar spectral beauty in a story set partly at Christmas time.

The Cheaters (1945)

The high-society Pidgeon family, secretly near bankruptcy, are aghast when an ailing elderly relative leaves his fortune to an actress whom the Pidgeons plot to swindle out of her inheritance in this dark holiday comedy starring Joseph Schildkraut as an alcoholic actor entangled in the Pidgeons’ schemes.

The Bishop’s Wife (1947)

Debonair angel Dudley (Cary Grant) comes to Earth to help weary workaholic bishop Henry Brougham (David Niven) but bonds with the bishop’s neglected wife Julia (Loretta Young) in

ways that complicate his divine mission in this charming romantic comedy. Monty Woolley also stars.

It Happened on Fifth Avenue (1947)

Crafty hobo Aloysius T. McKeever (Victor Moore) spends his winters living in the otherwise vacant mansion of seasonally absent tycoon Michael J. O’Connor (Charles Ruggles), but complications arise when McKeever opens the mansion to fellow homeless folk in this good-hearted comedy.

Lady in the Lake (1947)

Robert Montgomery doubles as director and star of this noir Christmas mystery shot from the perspective of the main character, private detective Phillip Marlowe (Montgomery), who seldom appears on screen except in an occasional reflection. Audrey Totter also stars.

Holiday A air (1949)

Janet Leigh stars as world-weary single mother Connie Ennis, who’s half-heartedly dating an all-around great guy, lawyer Carl Davis (Wendell Corey), when drifter turned toy salesman Steve Mason (Robert Mitchum) catches her eye in this holiday love triangle where all three sides are worth rooting for.

The Holly and the Ivy (1952)

A smart, moving British drama depicting a fateful holiday gathering of the Gregory clan, whose assorted secrets have been festering for years because the adult children of Reverend Martin Gregory (Ralph Richardson) feel like they can’t ever be fully honest or human in the family of a country church vicar.

We’re No Angels (1955)

This delicious black comedy stars Humphrey Bogart, Aldo Ray and Peter Ustinov as hardened criminals who break out of the infamous Devil’s Island prison just before Christmas and hide out as hired help at the struggling Ducotel family store, affectionately meddling in the kindly Ducotels’ troubles.

For more details on these movies, plus a bonus 13th film and an expanded list of Christmas flicks, see our longer companion piece online at buzzpei.com.

A Merry Christmas to us all.

BOOKS PEI

Piracy J. T. Goddard

timgoddard.ca or jtgoddard.com

At the Feet of the Sun

Victoria Goddard

All he has to do is wait patiently for his lord’s return... until adventure quite literally hits him from behind, and what was once safely hypothetical becomes intensely real.

Cliopher has always followed the stars of his chosen course: the epic oral histories of his people, the poetry of the rebel poet Fitzroy Angursell, decades of devotion and service to his Radiancy... They were enough to change the world. But are they enough to guide Cliopher home?

At the Feet of the Sun, the longawaited sequel to The Hands of the Emperor, will be availble for purchase online and at Bookmark in Charlottetown. Goddard will be signing copies of her books at the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market Artisan Christmas Market on December 11 and 18.

victoriagoddard.ca

Coming Home

Fiona Steele

identity she is rooted in. It is organized in three distinct parts: sandstone, sea and sky. Sandstone is about the beginning. It’s the foundation of Steele’s life, family relationships, and understanding her sexuality. Sea follows Steele’s journey of embracing her identity as well as her time living on the mainland. And finally, Sky features many nature poems and the acceptance of her spirituality.

Steele studies at UPEI in the Master of Arts in Island Studies program. She graduated with a double major in Journalism and Communications & Public Policy from St. Thomas University in 2021, where she was awarded the David Adams Richards Prize for Non-Fiction. Originally from Summerside, PE, Steele grew up in Sherbrooke, ON with her parents, sister, cats and horses.

Memories of Christmas Marlene Campbell

Piracy, a novelette by Island author J. T. Goddard, is now available.

On a wet evening in eastern Prince Edward Island, two hundred welldressed people scurry through the rain to board a wooden tall ship. A replica of Neo Victoria, the flagship of Magellan, the three-masted carrack has been brought to PEI to host a gala dinner and fundraiser. The guests chatter and mingle, while a woman with a mysterious past displays an array of valuable jewelry. A group who misunderstood the invitation to be for a fancy dress party arrive dressed as pirates. Nobody expects what happens next.

Together with the Gavin Rashford series (Traces, Tracks, and Missing), copies of Piracy can be purchased at Bookmark in Charlottetown. Print and e-versions are available online. Goddard will be signing and selling copies of his books at the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market

At the Feet of the Sun by PEI author Victoria Goddard will be available December 1.

Cliopher Mdang has been appointed Viceroy of Zunidh by his beloved Radiancy, the Last Emperor, who has now left him behind in the Palace to safeguard the world during his absence on a quest to find an appropriately magical heir. When he returns, he will abdicate, and Cliopher will at last retire, satisfied with having achieved most of his life’s political goals—even if his long-suppressed personal dreams are starting to bubble up to the surface.

(Surely he used to have hobbies besides running the government?)

In Charlottetown resident Fiona Steele’s recently released collection, Coming Home, she writes about the journey of coming home to PEI after moving away and to the Island

In her new book, Memories of Christmas, Island author Marlene Campbell brings together a new collection of nostalgic stories that recalls Christmas celebrations of a different era, transporting readers to the bygone days of rural Prince Edward Island. There are stories of actual Islander’s Christmases—from wartime to Christmas on the farm— retold by Campbell.

In this collection, the reader learns of a time when gifts and decorations were homemade and that time with family was the greatest gift of all. The collection will be sure to warm the hearts of even the biggest curmudgeon this holiday season.

Campbell grew up in the 1960s and 70s in Lot 16, PEI, and enjoyed listening to stories of the adults around her. She has a degree in political science and has worked in a number of fields, including cultural programming. Her interest in writing has led her to create radio dramas, historical vignettes, film scripts, a full-length play, and three earlier books that reflect PEI history. She lives in Tyne Valley, PEI.

Campbell will launch Memories of

Artisans Christmas Market on December 11 and 18.

Christmas on December 3 at 1 pm at the Summerside Interpretive Centre, 33 Summer Street. All are welcome.

Education for Global Citizenship and Sustainability: From Theory to Practice

Linyuan Guo-Brennan

and children’s rights, social justice, image and perception, conflict resolution, and digital citizenship skills are discussed at length, and each chapter offers activities and recommended resources.

Rather than see global citizenship education (GCED) as another subject to be taught, Guo-Brennan demonstrates how it can be infused or integrated into existing subjects.By incorporating GCED into the 21st-centuryclassroom,learners of all ages can understand the issues impacting local and global contexts and become active promoters of more peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable communities.

Published by Island Studies Press, this book was supported by a SSHRC Exchange Publication Award from the Vice President of Academic and Research. It is available in Charlottetown at the UPEI Bookstore and Bookmark, and at nimbus.ca.

Linyuan Guo-Brennan is a Professor of International and Global Education in the Faculty of Education at UPEI. She has been engaged in empowering globally competent citizens, educators, and leaders for three decades and was recognized as one of 100 Lead Global Thinkers on Education for Global Citizenship by the Global Citizenship Foundation.

Fall lecture series

The Benevolent Irish Society’s Fall Lecture Series continues at 7 pm, December 2, 7 and 9, at the Irish Cultural Centre in Charlottetown.

Upcoming lectures include: Dr. Ranke Devries of St. Francis Xavier University with “Of manic heroes and marrowbaths: Medicine in medieval Irish saga literature” on Dec 2; Musician and folklorist Eddy Quinn will speak about some local Irish characters he has known and written about on Dec 7; and Dr. Padraig O’Siadhail of St. Mary’s University with speak about the Irish language and South Africa—a fresh perspective on the Irish language revival in Ireland in the first half of the 20th century on Dec 9.

LIBRARIES

Charlottetown Library Learning Centre

Programming continues this month at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre (CLLC). Games Night: Mur Club takes place weekly on Thurs at 5:15 pm. Join Desmond to learn and play Mur: Beyond Fischer Random Chess. No experience necessary. Learn about tenants’ rights and responsibilities at the Community Legal Information presentation on Dec 1 at 6 pm. Register for Intro to the Makerspace for Adults on Dec 5 at 6:30 pm for a hands-on demonstration of what a makerspace is, its benefits and what the CLLC makerspace has to offer. Register for 1 on 1 Tech Help on Dec 8 from 2–4 pm for assistance with a device or computer questions. Create a cute little gnome decoration at Crafternoon on Dec 14 at 1 pm. Register in advance. Supplies are limited. Try out a new game or play an old favourite at Board Game Café on Dec 14 at 6 pm. Join Downstreet Dance Studio for some Salsa dancing instruction and enjoy some light refreshments at the Seniors Café on Dec 15 at 1 pm. Book’in It: Walking Book Club takes place Dec 17 at 9:30 am. Meet for a 20-minute stroll and then head inside to discuss the latest selection. Pick up a copy from the Welcome Desk. Daily

children’s programming is available in the Children’s Library. Follow @PEI Public Library Service on socials for updates. CLLC is located at 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Summerside Rotary library

The Summerside Rotary Library in the Inspire Learning Centre offers programming for all ages. The following is a list of adult programming in December. Join Michael Nesbitt from the Athena Community Astronomy Club at Telescope Talk for ages 12 and over on Dec 6 at 7 pm. Join knitters, crocheters, rug hookers and other fibre and textile makers for some crafting and social time at Needle Craft Club on Dec 8 and 22 at 1:30 pm. Meet at the library Dec 9 at 11 am for an info session and an informal conversation group at the Seniors Café Make Holiday Cards and Tags on Dec 12 at 6:30 pm and Dec 13 at 2 pm. Wrapping paper will also be available to wrap a gift or two. Holiday Bingo continues to Dec 21. Pick up a holiday bingo sheet at the circulation desk. Each line will give one entry towards a holiday gift basket. Join the Book Club on Jan 7 at 2 pm for a lively discussion. Pick up a copy of the latest book club selection at the main circulation desk. Loads of children and teen programming is also on offer at the Summerside Rotary Library in the Inspire Learning Centre at 57 Central St, Summerside. For full details of provincial library programming, follow them on socials @PEI Public Library Service.

One of the leading thinkers in global citizenship education is launching a new book that shares decades of teaching experience. Linyuan Guo-Brennan, a professor at UPEI, is the author of Education for Global Citizenship and Sustainability: From Theory to Practice This resource is as an excellent guide for new and existing teachers looking to incorporate global citizenship themes into their classroom.

The bookaims to empower educators to translate education for global citizenship and sustainable development into teaching and leadership actions at K–20 levels. Themes such as sustainable development goals, human

582 North River Rd, Charlottetown. Admission is by donation.

PEI Public Library Service programming

A limited quantity of signed copies are available at Bookmark.

PEI Public Libraries offer programming for babies, children, teens, adults and seniors. Visit the Public Library events calendar at library.pe.ca or follow @PEI Public Library Service on FB for updated info about library events in PEI communities.

to PEI’s Nicholas Herring on winning the Writers’ Trust of Canada Atwood Gibson Fiction Prize for his debut novel, Some Hellish.

Bridge course

Ray Malone is offering an eight-week bridge course, Planning the Play of the Bridge Hand, in Charlottetown this winter starting Jan 12 at the Benevolent Irish Society (BIS). The curriculum is based on the work of Barbara Seagram and David Bird, two internationally famous bridge teachers and authors. Topics include: other types of finesse; planning your entries; planning to draw some trump but not all; planning to keep the danger hand off lead; planning to combine two chances; planning further hold-up plays; and plans that involve counting. The course fee will be on a sliding scale depending on the number of tables. The target group for this course is intermediate players. Info/register: ray.teaches. bridge@gmail.com, 368-8416

Heritage & Culture Award nominations open

The City of Summerside’s Heritage & Culture Award nominations are open. The Awards are given annually in recognition of individual and group contributions to the preservation, education or promotion of heritage or culture in the City of Summerside. Awards include: Heritage Activities; Arts/Culture Activities; Publication of the Year; Volunteer of the Year; Youth Volunteer of the Year; and Award of Honour. Nomination forms are available at online at culturesummerside.com, in person at MacNaught History Centre and Archives, 75 Spring St, Summerside, or by calling 432-1298. Nominations close Jan 27 at 4 pm. The Awards will be presented at the Mayor’s Heritage Tea during Heritage Week in Feb.

Breast Cancer support

The PEI Breast Cancer Support Group is a survivor driven group that provides group support, a voice of solidarity for PEI breast cancer (BC) survivors, education, one on one support, and advocacy. Regular meetings are held on the first Monday of each month, email charlottetownbreastcancersg@gmail.com or call Judy at 569-3496 to attend. This group has received financial support CBCN (Canadian Breast Cancer Network), Canada’s only patient-directed national BC health charity. CBCN’s Patient Friendly website publication for those newly diagnosed will help increase understanding of diagnosis, treatment options, what to expect, Intimacy Workshop, Surgery guide, financial navigator, MedSearch, Never too Young handbook, and Metastatic BC Handbook for those living with Stage IV BC. Hard copies can be ordered by email to cbcn@ cbcn.ca or call 1-800-685-8820. Developed by Dr. Sally Kydd, Intimacy After Breast Cancer is a free workshop facilitated by CBCN volunteers who have been through the journey and has received only positive feedback from participants of all ages, single or committed. Info: Judy (569-3496), Teri (218-1621), charlottetownbreastcancersg@gmail.com, 1-800-685-8820

COMMUNITY #1

more info or to help in any way. The video at facebook.com/pat.martel.100/ videos/10164787102455722, provides a walk-through of the Project Love operation.

PEI Autistic Adults: Peer Support Group

Senior Islanders of the Year

Six Island Seniors have been awarded the Senior Islander of the Year for 2022. The recipients are Sharda Gupta of Charlottetown, Candy Gallant of Miscouche, Rosaleen Mahoney of Summerside, Warren Ellis of Summerside, Pieter Valkenburg of North Tryon, and Beverley Harris of Souris.

The Senior Islanders of the Year Awards celebrate the work of Island seniors in areas like volunteering, artistic achievement, leadership, mentorship, fundraising, community participation and career achievement.

To learn more about the awards and this year’s recipients, visit princeedwardisland.ca/en/service/pei-senior-islanders-of-the-year-award.

Island Stroke Support Network

The Island Stroke Support Network (ISSN), recently launched by March of Dimes Canada, will enable stroke survivors and their caregivers to make meaningful connections through one-toone peer support, stroke support clubs, and technology training. ISSN connects stroke survivors and their caregivers with highly trained, caring volunteers who are also stroke survivors, for oneon-one virtual support. Volunteers will share their lived experiences with stroke to bring hope and information to participants as they navigate their personalized stroke recovery plan. Additionally, Stroke Support Clubs held at select public libraries will allow stroke survivors and their caregivers to share their experiences and practical advice with one another. Each year, about 350 people will have a stroke in PEI. Peer support programs such as the ISSN are an important resource for fostering social connection and emotional support, and empowering people to rebuild their lives and achieve their goals after stroke. To learn more about how ISSN can help, call the Stroke Support Line at 1-888-540-6666 or email afterstroke@marchofdimes.ca.

UPEI seeking organizations

Each month, the UPEI Experiential Education department hosts an Afternoon of Service whereby a group of students spends an afternoon at a local organization, learning about it and participating in hands-on volunteer activities such as planting trees, harvesting

crops, socializing with seniors, and assisting with events. The department is currently seeking organizations that would appreciate volunteer help and are willing to partner with UPEI for this initiative. Organizations also benefit from the help that the student volunteers provide and have found it to be a positive experience. Past hosts include The Mount Continuing Care Community, PEI Farm Centre, Mi’kmaq Printing and Design, Pride PEI, and Wright’s Creek Environmental Committee. Ideally, new partner organizations would be within walking distance to UPEI or a short bus ride away. For more info or to get in touch about becoming a partner organization, call Susie Zavala at 894-2817 or email szavala@upei.ca

Project Love: Gifts From The Heart Christmas program

Project Love served over 800 families last Christmas. Now in its 4th year, the Gifts From The Heart Christmas program, Project Love, will provide food hampers, toys, wrapped gifts and personal items for over 1000 Island families and their children this Dec. Betty Begg, CEO of Gifts From The Heart says, “Compassion, love and kindness are at the forefront of Project Love.” Donations of food, toys, gift cards, volunteer hours or cash would be greatly appreciated to help registered Project Love families. Over 800 families were served last year. To register as a Project Love client or to ‘adopt a family’ for this special project, Contact the Gifts From The Heart office at 10 Maple Hills Ave, Charlottown or 628-6871. Contact Betty at 393-0171 for

PEI Autistic Adults is an online and in person peer-support group for autistic adults/seniors on PEI to talk about autism, share experiences of navigating PEI as autistic adults, and support each other. An online public blog where members can share their views is located on their website at peiautisticadults.com. The blog features a members only discussion forum, chat functionality, resources, and links to their social media. There are weekly meetings in Charlottetown and plans to expand to different locations across PEI once the group gets larger. PEI Autistic Adults was started by an autistic senior and currently has 60 members, ranging from students to seniors. PEI Autistic Adults is not affiliated with any organization. For those who would like to participate in the meetings but do not wish to interact online, email peiautisticadults@gmail.com. For more info, visit peiautisticadults.com.

Trade HERizons 2023

The Women’s Network PEI’s Trade HERizons program begins again in Jan. Trade HERizons is a career exploration and college preparation program for women and gender-diverse people with a focus on exposure to trades and technology careers, enhancing essential skills, career exploration and personal development. Participants experience hands on learning opportunities with Holland College, meet mentors and tour with employers in industry. Participants also enhance life skills and focus on labor market research, resumes, interview skills, math, and team building. The program runs Jan 16–Apr 7. Info: admin@ wnpei.org, 368-5040, wnpei.org

Summerside Rotary seeking community project ideas

Summerside Rotary is giving Summerside residents an opportunity to submit community improvement project ideas that the club could potentially undertake. Dr. Richard Wedge, committee chair, says that there could potentially be one larger project undertaken or several smaller projects, depending on the ideas submitted and community impact. For this initiative, Rotary is asking for ideas that focus on either sustainability or improving community quality-of-life.

Founded in 1943, Summerside Rotary has a long history of supporting community initiatives, including fundraising $20,000 in its first year back in 1943, and more recently, Summerside Rotary fundraised and managed the renovation construction for the new Inspire Learning Centre on Central St that opened in 2017. Summerside residents can submit their ideas online at bit.ly/3TdLFP6. People can submit multiple ideas, but the ideas should be submitted separately. summersiderotaryclub.com

(l-r): Sharda Gupta, Candy Gallant, Rosaleen Mahoney, Warren Ellis, Honourable Matthew MacKay, Pieter Valkennueg, Audrey Morris, chair of the PEI Seniors Secretariat. (Missing: Beverly Harris)

Cleaning house

Ceremony acknowledges colonial history at Province House

New ED at MCPEI

Epekwitk Assembly of Councils welcomes Kateri Coade

Effective November 7, the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils welcomed Kateri Coade as the new Executive Director of the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI.

“I look forward to continuing to build strong partnerships and advancing the important work of the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI with direction from the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils, and support of Abegweit and Lennox Island First Nations and staff,” says Kateri.

A proud member of the Abegweit First Nation, Kateri resides on the Rocky Point Reserve with her family.

The Mi’kmaq leadership, Parks Canada, and Government of PEI joined for a ceremony at Province House National Historic Site in November, intended to acknowledge the colonial history associated with the building. This included a smudging ceremony led by Mi’kmaq Elder Methilda Knockwood Snache as a way to cleanse the energy of Province House while being rebuilt, and a brief tour of Province House, which gave attendees a chance to view progress of the conservation initiative led by Parks Canada.

The ceremony included a symbolic offering from the Mi’kmaq that will be placed in the walls of Province House for generations to come. A bundle of four sacred medicines (sage, cedar, tobacco, sweetgrass) was prepared in a woven basket handmade by Keptin Jim Bernard, and will be cared for by Elder Methilda until its final placement at a later date.

Darlene Bernard, Chief of Lennox Island First Nation and Co-Chair of

the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils says, “It is important that as we write a new shared history moving forward, as we rebuild the foundation of a National Historic Site, we must also rebuild the foundation of our relationships with one another, from Government to Government and Nation to Nation. The intention of the ceremony today is to cleanse the negative energy that is present in Province House and create a new energy that is founded on mutual respect and recognition moving forward.”

Following the ceremony, Parks Canada President and CEO Ron Hallman acknowledged that the colonial discussions and decisions that took place at Province House both excluded and impacted Indigenous peoples. He also highlighted the important collaborative work that Parks Canada is undertaking alongside Indigenous partners to explore the stories of Province House and what this place represents.

Her wealth of experience includes working as the Senior Program Coordinator to re-structure the PEI First Nations Child and Family Services Program at MCPEI, and as the Director of Social Development Programs for Abegweit First Nation, where she focused on policy development and assisting community members in establishing meaningful education, training, and employment opportunities. Kateri also brings experience from working with both provincial and federal governments. She is a strong voice for the Mi’kmaq people living in PEI and has worked on various policy and legislative pieces related to Social Development and Child Welfare.

Kateri sits on various local, regional, and national boards and committees in her dedication to the inclusion and advancement of the PEI First Nations, through various sectors including mental wellness, social work, child and family sport, and justice. She is dedicated to continuing education and was a Social Work Field Instructor in the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Manitoba. She is also an alumna of the 2022 Governor General’s

IRSA Christmas Social

Canadian Leadership Conference and sits on the Board of Directors for UPEI, Confederation Centre of the Arts, and the PEI 2023 Canada Games. She holds a Bachelor of Political Science from UPEI, and a Bachelor and Master’s in Social Work from Dalhousie University.

Treaty education

The Government of PEI entered into a Treaty Education Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on November 9 with the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils, represented by Chief Junior Gould of Abegweit First Nation and Chief Darlene Bernard of Lennox Island First Nation.

“We are pleased to sign this Treaty Education MOU today, which will set us on the path to work together on treaty education curriculum in schools, as well as the development of treaty education programs and projects for civil servants and all Islanders,” said Chief Bernard. “It is key that the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq and Islanders have knowledge of these treaties and what they mean to us collectively. We are all Treaty People, and that comes with rights and responsibilities, not just for the Mi’kmaq.”

Chief Gould said, “Epekwitk is home to all Islanders, and it is vital that we take time to acknowledge and learn about our true shared history. We can accomplish so much when we work together in peace and friendship, as our ancestors intended when they signed the Peace and Friendship Treaties.”

Visit lnuey.ca and princeedwardilsand.ca to learn more about reconciliation.

MCPEI Executive Director Kateri Coade

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Make a difference this holiday season. 100% of your gift goes directly to Kenyan farm families.

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.

The women farmers we work with in Kenya have been hard hit by a drought. Many of these gifts will help them to produce food to feed their families or will help to provide food for a mid-day meal for school children.

River Clyde Solstice Walk

Free all ages workshops leading up to the event—Dec 21

The third edition of the River Clyde Solstice Walk returns to New Glasgow from 6–8 pm on December 21, with a procession of illuminated lanterns, outdoor performances, food and bonfires.

The Solstice Walk celebrates the promise of light on the darkest day of the year. Participants are invited to join the walk with a lantern, candle or a light, travelling through the Gardens of Hope, across the New Glasgow Bridge, and ending up at The Mill in New Glasgow for music, snacks, and bonfires.

All are welcome. The Solstice Walk is a free, unticketed event.

A series of free public workshops for all ages are being offered leading up to the Solstice Walk.

Pageant scenographer Ian McFarlane will lead two Dogwood Lantern Design workshops on December 9 from 6–9 pm in Charlottetown (venue tbd) and December 16 from 6–9 pm at The Mill in New Glasgow. Participants will be guided through a multi-step process in advanced, yet accessible sculpting techniques to build their own lantern.

Artist and designer Lokki Ma will

lead two Lantern-Making for Little Ones workshops, December 11 from 1–2:30 pm at the Summerside Rotary Library and December 18 from 1–2:30 pm at The Mill in New Glasgow. Younger children will create a Solstice lantern from a simple design.

Monelli Rahmatian will lead the Celebrate the Solstice through Dance workshop at DownStreet Dance Studio in Charlottetown on December 9 from 4:30–5:30 pm. Participants will give thanks to the past seasons and welcome winter through creative movement.

Monelli will also lead a Persian Cooking workshop on December 18, from 10:30 am–12:30pm, followed by a shared meal at The Mill in New Glasgow. Participants will learn about Persian foods and Solstice traditions while cooking and eating together. Families are welcome to attend together.

Pre-registration is required to attend the Walk and the workshops. Register at riverclydepageant.com/ solstice-walk. An access guide is also available online, detailing the accessibility measures offered at the event.

Please 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

PHONE ___________________________________________________ EMAIL _____________________________________________________

www.farmershelpingfarmers.ca

Giving online has never been easier! Click donate at or e-transfer to farmershelpingfarmerspei@gmail.com

All donations received by December 15, 2022 will allow us to mail you a gift card before Christmas.

Solstice Walk 2021

JON PEARCEY

Restoring Community

tragedy of violence against Indigenous women and girls in Canada. Guest speaker Eileen Conboy will share her perspectives on restoring community after sexualized violence, Elder Julie Pellisier-Lush will give an Indigenous opening, and Todd MacLean will provide piano accompaniment. Poet and performer Tanya Davis is creating an original piece to honour the lives of women lost, and Carlie Howell will be gifting attendees with music.

Political leaders, front-line advocates for violence prevention, and family members and friends of the murdered PEI women will be lighting candles in honour and remembrance.

The PEIACSW’s 2022-2023 Purple Ribbon Campaign theme is “Restoring Community: Hope for Survivors, Help for Abusers; Healing, Accountability and Equality for All.”

All are welcome to attend the Montreal Massacre Memorial Service on December 6 at 12 pm in Memorial Hall at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown.

The service, organized by the PEI Advisory Council on the Status of Women (PEIACSW), commemorates the 14 women killed in Montreal in 1989, the 11 PEI women murdered since that date, and the ongoing

Purple ribbons are worn in honour and remembrance of the murdered women in Montreal and PEI, and as a call for justice for the thousands of murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls in Canada.

The Memorial Service will be broadcast live through Zoom, by registration, for those who cannot attend in person. Register by 4 pm December 5 at info@peistatusofwomen.ca or 368-4510.

This year's campaign highlights our work with youth, the importance of early violence intervention, and the promotion of healthy relationships. Please support us!

Thousands of ribbons are cut and pinned to information cards/bookmarks by volunteers, to be distributed to individuals and organizations across the Island.

Montreal Massacre Memorial Service—Dec 6

A Wyatt Christmas

Christmas trees exhibition

Culture Summerside, the arts, heritage and culture department of the City of Summerside, has once again transformed the historic Lefurgey Cultural Centre into an evergreen forest for the exhibit, The Magic of Christmas at Wyatt Heritage Properties: Christmas Trees Though the Ages

The Christmas tree is one of the central traditions of Christmas. While its story of origin dates back centuries, fashion designers are forever influencing new trends for the festive evergreen. The annual exhibit is added to each year to expand upon the story and the latest fashion.

The trees, decorated by Shelley Campbell of Tyne Valley, are decked according to the trends and happenings of various time periods. Each tree tells its own story. A stroll through the exhibit is a way to enjoy the wonder of changing styles without incurring the costs. The exhibit is for all ages.

The exhibit will open to visitors December 2, following the Summerside Santa Claus Parade. It will then be on view daily from December 5–17,

Making access to laboratory services easier for Islanders

Online booking for laboratory services such as bloodwork is now available for all Health PEI laboratory services locations through SkipTheWaitingRoom.com

The online service is available for blood collection at:

•Queen Elizabeth Hospital

•Prince County Hospital

•Souris Hospital

•Kings County Memorial Hospital

•Western Hospital

•Community Hospital O’Leary

•Kensington Health Centre

Patients can go to the SkipTheWaitingRoom.com website directly to register for an appointment. Individuals will need a requisition form from a physician or nurse practitioner in order to schedule a blood draw.

This service is a commercialization project between Health PEI and the Coordinated Accessible National (CAN) Health Network, a national partnership of leading health care operators committed to introducing Canadian companies into the health care system.

Monday–Friday from 10 am–5 pm, and Saturdays December 10 and 17, from 3–8 pm, in conjunction with the Summerside Yuletide Village in Memorial Square. The exhibit will only be open to school groups December 14–15. It will remain closed on Sundays, and December 3. Admission is by donation.

The Wyatt House Museum will be decorated for Christmas and open to a small number of visitors on December 17 for a Wyatt Christmas with the curatorial staff. To give an intimate personal experience, only 15 guests per half hour will be invited to view the main floor of the 1867 home of the Wyatt family, which is furnished with the original artifacts. It is considered one of the most unique house museums in Canada. Tickets must be prebooked for this exclusive experience. A pianist will be playing Christmas carols on the 1890 Cecelia Wyatt piano and senior museum staff will be on-hand to elevate the experience. culturesummerside.com

NATURE

Nature PEI meeting

Jeanne Maki will present Nature Highlights of Columbia at Nature PEI’s next monthly meeting on December 6, 7:30 pm, at Beaconsfield’s Carriage House. Jeanne will take attendees to beautiful Colombia, a country with 1954 species of birds and many national parks. She became interested in Latin America at an early age and followed an eclectic path to satisfy her interest in different cultures, nature, and photography. A move to PEI at the age of 21, completing her BA in Latin American Studies and MA in Teaching ESL, a weekend course in photography from John Sylvester, and taking part in the Christmas Bird Count years ago, all contributed to Jeanne’s lifelong learning. She is a member of Nature PEI, a Conservation Guardian for Island Nature Trust, and continues to serve on the boards for a number of conservation organizations. Admission is free and all are welcome. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown.

NatureBus Tour

Nature Canada will bring its Biodiversity

NatureBus Tour to Charlottetown on December 3. The bus, painted with designs of endangered species, is making its way to Montreal to deliver postcards and messages of support to elected officials and others attending the COP15 Biodiversity Summit, to make sure planning for nature is paramount in discussions. The family-friendly Charlottetown stop will run from 12 noon–2 pm at the PEI Farm Centre and will feature Ecology Action Centre Mascots, activities, refreshments, and information about Species-at-Risk and about conservation organizations on the Island, along with opportunities to sign postcards and and create messages. 420 University Ave, Charlottetown. naturecanada/naturebus

The Nature of PEI by Gary Schneider

To feed or not to feed

Every year with the approach of winter, I would normally stock up on a variety of bird food such as sun ower and niger seeds, peanuts and suet cakes. The feeders would be clean and ready to be placed around the deck, and I would look forward to seeing a wonderful array of winter birds. Common ones, including black-capped chickadees, blue jays, and American gold nches, are like old friends returning after some time away.

But it is always the less common visitors that spark the most excitement. The evening grosbeaks, cedar and Bohemian waxwings, even the sharpshinned hawk looking for lunch, are special treats on a wintry day.

This year, though, my partner and I made the difficult decision to leave the feeders in the basement, perhaps for good. The reason is a variety of problems that are compromising the health of birds coming to feeders. The first is a particularly nasty one, an infectious disease called trichomonosis. It is spread by microscopic parasites (Trichomonas gallinae) and causes respiratory problems in a variety of birds, including purple finches and American goldfinches—two of our most common visitors.

The disease affects the esophagus and crop of birds, making it difficult for them to eat and resulting in starvation and dehydration. An infected bird spreads the parasite to seeds that are then ingested by other birds. Bird feeders concentrate the avian population, which then become susceptible to infections.

The Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) fact sheet on trichomonosis at cwhc-rcsf.ca/trichomonosis.php warns that while the disease won’t harm humans, it can be contracted by a variety of birds, including raptors that eat diseased prey.

Two other diseases that can be problems at winter feeders have also been identified by the CWHC. Mycoplasmosis is caused by bacterium that infect the eyes and eyelids of songbirds, leading to death by starvation or predation. Salmonellosis is caused by bacteria in the Salmonella family. Like trichomonosis, it affects the esophagus and crop and can be a killer.

And as if those weren’t enough,

Yuletide Village

New annual winter festival in Summerside

The City of Summerside, Downtown Summerside and Explore Summerside have teamed up to bring a winter wonderland to Memorial Park in downtown Summerside with their new annual winter festival, the Summerside Yuletide Village. Offering a variety of free, family-fun activities, this new festival will provide lots of wonder and whimsy for all who attend.

Santa himself will start the celebrations at Yuletide Village right after the Summerside Santa Claus Parade on December 2. Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for the lighting of the city Christmas tree and an evening of merriment.

Each Saturday from 3–8 pm on

we’re still facing avian influenza, the disease that took such a toll on our Northern gannets, as well as infecting some American crows, common murres, Northern ravens, bald eagles, a snowy owl, a red-tailed hawk and even red foxes. While no cases have been reported in blue jays in PEI, two confirmed cases were reported in Nova Scotia.

Instead of feeders, I will continue to plant and promote a variety of native trees and shrubs that benefit wildlife throughout the year. The idea is to create excellent wildlife habitat that provides both food and protection. Our backyard already hosts a large and lovely native hawthorn, in addition to many other native species of trees and shrubs. While not a prime source of food, hawthorn fruits are eaten by waxwings, American robins, and other birds. But its main value lies in its ability to protect. The long thorns protect small birds from larger predators.

Other shrubs that are especially beneficial to wildlife in the winter include winterberry holly, American mountain ash, wild rose, and highbush cranberry. All benefit fruit-eating birds, including American robins, pine grosbeaks, and waxwings. In other seasons, the elders, serviceberry, beaked hazelnuts and other shrubs will be the star attractions.

And I am going to take more outings to my favourite birding spots, such as East Point and Earnscliffe. There, I can see everything from rough-legged hawks and peregrine falcons to snow buntings and horned larks.

In troubled times, often the best you can do is to find imperfect solutions.

Candle lightings

PEI Jewish community

Hanukkah celebrations

In celebration of the first night of Hanukkah, the PEI Jewish community is hosting a candle lighting of the Hanukkah menorah in Charlottetown. The Town of Stratford will celebrate on the second night of Hanukkah with a candle lighting.

The candle lighting of the Hanukkah menorah in front of

Merrymaking continues

Charlottetown Christmas

Festival goes into January

The Charlottetown Christmas Festival, presented by Discover Charlottetown in partnership with the City of Charlottetown, continues until January 2. PEI’s capital city is full of holiday magic, festive programming, and decked out in seasonal decor (picture Whoville, Charlottetown style).

Upcoming and ongoing signature events by partner organizations include the Deck the Halls Series at Founders’ Food Hall & Market, Capital New Year, LIVE @ The Centre holiday shows, and a Holiday Cirque at the Eastlink Centre.

December 3, 10 and 17, festival-goers can look forward to visits with Santa, lights and delights, cozy campfires, a hot chocolate bar, carol sing-alongs, winter lights tour wagon rides, Yuletide Village scavenger hunts, s’more making, a mailbox to send letters to Santa, and more.

The Summerside Yuletide Village will also celebrate local artisans this gift giving season with a Winter Crafters Fair on December 10.

Follow the City of Summerside and Downtown Summerside on Facebook and Instagram for updates. See the ad on page A2 of The Buzz for the Summerside Yuletide Village schedule.

Province House in Charlottetown (Grafton and Church Sts) will mark the second annual display of the Hanukkah menorah on the grounds of the Legislative Assembly. The lighting will take place December 18 at 4 pm. An additional light will be added nightly for the following seven nights, culminating on December 25.

The Town of Stratford will be celebrating the second night of Hanukkah, December 19, with the lighting of the Hanukkah menorah erected in front of Stratford Town Hall. The PEI Jewish community will be attending this celebration.

All are welcome to attend.For information, email info@peijc.org (Charlottetown), or info@townofstratford.ca (Stratford).

Festive programming continues as well, with wine tastings, Yuletide Walking Tours, carollers, Breakfasts with Santa, horse & wagon rides, Christmas movies, holiday projections, live music, and children’s entertainment.

Visit charlottetownchristmasfestival.com for the full schedule and hotel package specials.

A cedar waxwing eating hawthorn fruits

The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson

Ready for winter

It’s hard to believe that winter is only days away. It doesn’t feel like it. We’re still eating fresh kale and carrots from the garden, and a few curious dandelions have popped up here and there as if to say, “Is it spring already?”

It’s been unseasonably warm, but short days and long nights have flipped a switch in the old biological timepiece. Soups, stews and casseroles are back on the menu. Bulky woollen sweaters are no longer nuisances but trusty companions. And Christmas music in stores has progressed from inappropriate to tolerable to welcome.

A semblance of order is returning to our stricken countryside. Roads have been cleared, power lines repaired and roofs restored. Folks are even taking time to bank their houses. For those who don’t know: banking is a traditional method of keeping a drafty house warm by piling a “bank” of straw bales or seaweed around the foundation. Eelgrass works best because it is light and fluffy, doesn’t decompose and won’t catch on fire, but any seaweed will do. Banking with straw is basically inviting all the mice in the neighbourhood to snuggle in for the winter, but I suppose they need somewhere to live too.

To me a well-banked house says, “No need to worry over here; we’re good.” Outdoor lights proclaim the same thing. So when I saw a house recently that had both seaweed banking and Christmas lights, I started to calm down—it’s been a stressful time!— and appreciate the fact that we truly are resilient. Whatever challenges lie ahead we’re going to put up some lights and celebrate.

Here in the Cove we’re having a big community celebration with another Living Nativity. Chrys and Doreen and the gang are climbing ladders,

stringing lights, assembling the crèche, borrowing livestock, borrowing gates, putting up signs, setting up inflatable penguins, phoning volunteers. Almost everyone in the community is doing something. I’m singing in the choir. Others will direct traffic, collect donations or take hot chocolate around to the participants. Of course the stars of the show, the shepherds, wise men and angels, will be standing around in the manger making small talk with Mary and Joseph while trying to hold back the goat who insists on sampling every robe and ribbon.

It will be good to hang out together. Everyone has some news, mostly about trees. We’d still be floundering in branches and tree limbs if we hadn’t had help from government agencies, charities, churches and individuals. A dozen students and retirees from a group called Samaritan’s Purse showed up at our place last week to remove fallen trees from our yard. These volunteers from Ontario, Grand Manan Island, Moncton, Edmonton and Calgary were being fed and housed at various churches plus a camp in the Cove. Thank you, kind souls.

Environment Canada is calling for colder weather this weekend. Better harvest the rest of the carrots. Make an appointment to put on winter tires. Dig out the Christmas lights. Settle in beside the woodstove with a good book. Watch the latest season of The Crown. Have friends over for supper. Now I feel we’re ready for winter.

Santa’s Visiting Hours

Sunday, November 27...............................................

Friday, December 2, 9, 16........................................

Saturday, December 3, 10, 17..................................

Sunday, December 4, 11, 18

Sunday December 4 (Silent Santa)

Performance December 2022 Section B

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND’S GUIDE TO WHAT’S GOING ON

Got Blues Matinee (Reg is on break) at Trailside Music Hall (photo: Buzz)

A Charlottetown Christmas Festival Signature Event

Holiday Drag Show

Starring Juice Boxx and Irma Gerd at PEI Brewing—Dec 4

Celebrate New Year's Eve with the City of Charlo etown and Founders' Food Hall & Market!

FEATURING FAMILY-FRIENDLY PROGRAMMING, INCLUDING: Entertainment by Taylor Swi Tribute Band Swi Kick Mascot Appearances | Art Activity | Photobooth Giveaways | Fireworks Display | and More!

SUPPORTED BY THE PEI EVENTS INNOVATION FUND

For more information, visit CHARLOTTETOWN.CA/NYE

Whitecap Entertainment and DragX Entertainment will present Holiday Drag Show, starring Juice Boxx and Irma Gerd from Canada’s Drag Race, at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on December 4 at 1 pm.

The fun-filled holiday extravaganza will feature local queens Tori Nylon,

Miz.Majestix, Anita P, Treyla Parktrash and Demona DeVille.

Doors at 12:30 pm; show at 1 pm.

The VIP Meet & Greet Photo Op will start at 12 noon. Tickets are available at peibrewingcompany.com.

96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown

Christmas Spectacular!

Kings Players return to the Playhouse stage—Dec 10 & 11

John Jory’s The Semi-Amazing, Sort of Sensational, Almost Unbelievable Christmas Spectacular! will be on stage at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown December 9 at 7:30 pm, and December 10 and 11 at 2 pm.

What happens when a community group tries to put on a Christmas Spectacular for the bargain price of $11.50?

You get a ton of elves, a spirit of Christmas, a visit from the little match girl, and Jacob Marley, and a partridge in a pear tree.

The Playhouse is delighted to see its community theatre troupe, Kings Players, return to the stage with this hilarious, chaotic romp through Christmas.

Directed by Catherine O’Brien, the play stars Sandy Stevens, Cindy MacLean, Mary Margaret Roney, Mike Roney, Jessica Wilde, Mathilde Sinnasse, Abigail Batchilder, Jordyn MacKay, Kara MacLean, Rowyn Wilde, Eli Zavo, Simon Zavo, Mischa Zavo, Lennon Peters, Abi MacInnis and Sheamus Dunphy.

It may be low on budget, but it is

high on laughs as audience members watch the Christmas characters they know and love hilariously collide in this Christmas disaster for the ages.

Tickets: kingsplayhouse.com, 1-888-346-5666

Juice Boxx (left) and Irma Gerd from Canada’s Drag Race

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

(back): Abigayle McInnis, (front, l-r): Rowyn Wilde, Simon Zavo, and Lennon Peters.

SUBMITTED

A Christmas Carol

Performances at Watermark Theatre and College of Piping

Watermark Theatre is remounting last year’s hit production, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, with an adaptation by Danielle Pearson. Evening performances take place December 14–17 at 7:30 pm, with matinee performances December 17 and 18 at 1 pm. The production will then tour to the Celtic Performing Arts Centre at the College of Piping in Summerside for two performances, December 20 and 21.

It’s Christmas Eve, and whilst London is alive with festive cheer and seasonal goodwill, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge grows meaner by the minute. A heartless moneylender, who cares more about counting his coins than for his fellow man, Scrooge despises Christmas and everything to do with it. But will a timely visit from the haunting ghosts of Christmas past, present and future change his wicked ways before it’s too late? Two actors introduce us to Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and a host of extraordinary characters as you have never seen them before in a festive retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic tale.

Starring Cameron MacDuffee and Leah Pritchard, the show is directed by Rebecca Parent.

Pearson is an associate artist at The Watermill Theatre (UK). She is currently under commission to Salisbury Playhouse (UK), developing an original TV series with New Forest Film, and an audio drama with Engineer Collective.

Originally from Charlottetown, Parent has 20 years of professional theatre experience. She has been seen on stages across the country as an actor, singer, and arts activist. Directing

credits include Tuesdays & Sundays, Johnny & June, Final Wave (Kitbag Theatre), and The Hobbit (Montgomery Theatre).

For over 25 years, MacDuffee has worked as a professional actor, musician, playwright, producer and instructor across Canada and the United States. He has performed in most of the major regional theatres in Canada in over 70 professional productions.

Since gaining her BFA from Memorial University of Newfoundland, Pritchard has worked as a professional actor and singer across Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Ontario.

Tickets: ticketwizard.ca, 963-3963 (Watermark); collegeofpiping.com

Beneath Springhill

Beau Dixon’s Beneath Springhill: The Maurice Ruddick Story will be on stage at Watermark Theatre in North Rustico from November 30–December 10.

Beneath Springhill is the story of Maurice Ruddick, “the singing miner,” an African-Canadian who survived nine days underground during the 1958 Springhill, NS mining disaster.

Performed by Beau Dixon, the show recalls the events during the disaster, the effect it had on Ruddick’s family, and the racial tensions in Springhill.

Tickets: 963-3963, ticketwizard.ca

A week of live performances celebrating the 2023 nominees of the Music PEI Awards for artists, industry professionals, and our community of music lovers.

Leah Pritchard (left) and Cameron MacDu ee

DAVID GLADSTONE

New Artistic Director

Johanna Nutter will set the stage at Victoria Playhouse

The Victoria Playhouse Board of Directors recently announced the appointment of Johanna Nutter as Artistic Director.

Johanna is no stranger to the Victoria Playhouse. She first performed there in 2007 alongside Bill McFadden in Trying, which was directed by founding Artistic Director Erskine Smith. In 2010, the Playhouse became the first theatre to present a full run of her award-winning show, My Pregnant Brother

A nationally recognized theatre creator who has performed on stages across Canada and Europe in both English and French, Johanna is drawn to authentic storytelling, surprising collaborations, and everything playful.

“I’m deeply grateful to the Playhouse for this opportunity to dedicate myself to the theatre that raised me,” she says. “Erskine gave me a chance when few others would and his trust and guidance helped me flourish as an artist. In Victoria-by-theSea, and across the Island, I’ve met people full of heart and talent who welcome everyone with humour and grace. I look forward to serving our community, learning what we most

need to share, and helping to get that on stage.”

Darcy Gorman, President of the Victoria Playhouse Board of Directors, says, “I am thrilled that Johanna is the new Artistic Director for the Victoria Playhouse. One need only speak to Johanna for a few moments to feel her passion for our little theatre company. Johanna’s experience, dedication, and vision will bring magic to the stage that will delight new and old audience members alike. Please join us at the theatre for this exciting new chapter.”

Johanna Nutter

THE HILDA WOOLNOUGH GALLERY @ THE GUILD DOUBLE TAKES

The Innkeeper’s Christmas

Lennie Gallant brings tour to PEI in December

PEI singer-songwriter Lennie Gallant has been touring The Innkeeper’s Christmas 2022 throughout Ontario and Atlantic Canada and will bring the holiday favourite, full of his original seasonal songs, Gallant classics, captivating stories, and enchanting visuals in a multimedia presentation, to PEI later this month with shows in Charlottetown and Summerside.

For several years, Gallant has performed new editions of his show in Atlantic Canada to sold out crowds. With the release of his first Christmas album, Christmas Day on Planet Earth last year, along with the formation of his new band, which includes his partner and Acadian performer Patricia Richard, multi-instrumentalist Keelin Wedge, and pianist Julien Robichaud,

The Singing Christmas Tree

Fandango Musical Players at Celtic Performing Arts Centre

Fandango presents The Singing Christmas Tree at 7:30 pm on Dec 3 and 4 at the Celtic Performing Arts Centre in Summerside.

Featuring the Fandango Musical Players and the College of Piping dancers, the debut of The Singing Christmas Tree will celebrate the season with an evening of dancing elves, ballerinas, Christmas classics, Broadway hits, and most impressively, a 20-foot living, singing Christmas tree in all its colourful glory.

collegeofpiping.com

this year’s show promises to be the best one yet.

“I’m very excited about taking this show on the road! I have a fabulous and energetic band with me ready to play a Christmas show with a difference! Get in the spirit and join us for a visually rich, fun, and original take on the holiday season. As one of my songs says: ‘I’m Gonna Have a Merry Christmas Even If It Kills Me!’” laughs Gallant.

The Innkeeper’s Christmas 2022 will be at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown on December 17 and at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on December 18. lenniegallant.com confederationcentre.com harbourfronttheatre.com

Feast Dinner Theatre

Feast Dinner Theatres presents Jingle & Mingle on select dates until December 21 at the Rodd Charlottetown Hotel and in Summerside at Brothers 2 Restaurant.

Patrons can expect a show with rocking music along with an old fashioned Christmas buffet—complete with roast turkey and ham, all the trimmings, salads and desserts.

Ask about group discounts. For info and tickets visit feastdinnertheatres.com or call the respective box office: Rodd Charlottetown, 692-2321; Brothers 2, 436-7674.

For more info and tickets visit feastdinnertheatres.com

ACT seeeksubmissions and volunteers

Submissions and volunteers are needed for the 2023 PEI Community Theatre Festival. ACT (a community theatre) is planning to host the event in Charlottetown in late March or April. The Festival, which has been held for many years to celebrate World Theatre Day, is organized by a small group of volunteers who help recruit theatre groups, arrange a venue, publicity, refreshments, and other things. In past years, hundreds of audience members have dropped in to watch two or three of the afternoon’s performances—a mix of comedy, drama, legend, musicals; even some improv. To volunteer backstage, in front of house, or other areas, get in touch at actproductionspei@gmail.com. Local theatre groups and individuals are invited to consider entering a performance (short play or excerpt, max 40 minutes) for the 2023 Community Theatre Festival. One act plays, scenes, musicals, dramas

JANUARY DEADLINE

Monday, December 12

or improv groups are welcome. Have a play but need actors/director? Enjoy acting but don’t have a play? Contact ACT to make the connections required to get the performance to the community stage. Email actproductionspei@gmail. com with initial ideas or proposal before January 15. There is no fee to participate.

Drop-in improv class

The HA Club’s drop-in improv performance classes with instructor Laurie Murphy are offered in Charlottetown and Summerside. Classes continue at the Haviland Club in Charlottetown on Mondays from 7–9 pm until mid–December. They will pick up again in January, and run until June. In Summerside, classes will be held on Wednesdays from 7–9 pm, January to June, at Brothers 2 Restaurant. Email lauriemurphy@marram.ca to register.

Bonshaw Young Players Drama Group

Due to the unexpected closure of the Bonshaw Community Centre for renovations, the Bonshaw Young Players Drama Group classes will be held on Saturdays starting January 21, from 10:30 am–12:30 pm at Beaconsfield’s Carriage House, 2 Kent St, Charlottetown. Sessions will emphasize the triple threats of song, dance, and improv drama. Open to ages 6–16. It is necessary to register by contacting Ruth Lacey at rlacey688@gmail. com or 675-4282 for further info.

A Community Christmas Carol

Play reading at Victoria Playhouse—Dec 10 & 11

Victoria Playhouse will present A Community Christmas Carol on December 10 at 7 pm and December 11 at 4 pm to raise funds for the theatre, located in Victoria-by-the-Sea.

The by donation fundraiser will feature Island performers and members of the community reading an abridged version of the Dickens classic, followed by a sing-a-long and art raffle.

Readers will take to the stage with no rehearsal and deliver their parts using scripts prepared as Shakespeare did for his actors: only their lines and the cue lines needed to jump in when it’s their turn.

All donations of $30 or more will receive a tax-deductible receipt. Bring cash and good cheer.

Info: 658-2370 victoriaplayhouse.com

Intrusions

Théâtre Populaire d’Acadie at Carrefour—Dec 2

Carrefour de l’Isle Saint Jean will present the Théâtre Populaire d’Acadie production of Intrusions on December 2 at 7 pm.

Intrusions by author Joan McLeod (Another Home Invasion), translated and interpreted by Marie-Thé Morin and directed by Geneviève Pineault, highlights the way in which, too often, our society neglects the elderly when they need the most help. Visit carrefourisj.org for tickets. Carrefour de l’Isle Saint Jean is located at 5 prom Acadienne, Charlottetown.

Marie-Thé Morin

MARIANNE DUVAL

Robin Hood

Du ebag Theatre plays in Summerside and Georgetown

On December 29, Dufflebag Theatre (Snow White, Sleeping Beauty) will bring their latest fun-filled festive treat, Robin Hood, to Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside at 2 pm and Kings Playhouse in Georgetown at 6 pm. While the King is away, the people of England suffer under the oppressive rule of his tax-happy brother, Prince John. Only a straight arrow like Robin Hood, the best archer in the land, can save England. Robin keeps the spirit of justice alive, with the help of a few friends along the way, including Maid Marian, Friar Tuck, and Little John.

Noises O is on

Calling all actors for ACT production in 2023

DuffleBag Theatre has traveled the globe with their original adaptations of fairy tales and classic stories since 1992. With wit and humour for all ages, they create theatrical magic by inviting audience members to be the stars of the show. The result is an interactive and unique experience. It’s no wonder DuffleBag performs over 600 shows annually at theatres, schools and festivals across North America and beyond.

harbourfronttheatre.com kingsplayhouse.com

ACT is looking for several readers to join their team. Readers would attend rehearsals and read any missing parts from the script, as well as potentially learning some of the physical blocking. This is a great way for someone to get involved in community theatre if they love to act but have limited time available. Interested parties may be offered an understudy position. Must be over 16 years of age. Sign up by emailing actproductionspei@gmail.com or contacting @ACTPEI on Facebook. ACT can also validate volunteer hours as a non-profit organization. There may be auditions for any remaining open roles, visit actpei.com for updates.

After four years of planning, ACT (a community theatre) will finally produce Noises Off in 2023. The rolicking British farce by Michael Frayne is often called the funniest play ever written.

Noises Off is full of double entendres and physical slapstick, as well as a moving two-story set and will (fingers crossed) hit the stage in early May. To assist with backstage or production tasks, get in touch.

BRIAN COLLINS

ON STAGE Theatre, Dance, Comedy…

Mondays

Jokes on Us Comedy Show

Hosted by Shawn Aucoin and Matty Burke. Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

to Dec 21 (select dates)

Feast Dinner Theatres:

Jingle & Mingle

Brothers 2, Summerside and Rodd Charlottetown Hotel, Charlottetown

Nov 30–Dec 10

Beneath Springhill: The Maurice Ruddick Story

Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

Dec 2

Théâtre Populaire d’Acadie: Intrusions

Carrefour de l’Isle Saint Jean, Charlottetown

Dec 3–4

Fandango Players: The Singing Christmas Tree

With the College of Piping Dancers. Celtic Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Monday December 12

Dec 4

Holiday Drag Show

Starring Juice Boxx and Irma Gerd. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Dec 8–11

Ledwell & Haines: A Trailside Christmas Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 9–11

The Semi-Amazing, Sort of Sensational, Almost Unbelievable Christmas Spectacular!

Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Dec 10–11

A Community Christmas Carol Victoria Playhouse, Victoria

Dec 14–18

A Christmas Carol Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

Dec 15

Dan Hendricken & Friends

Comedy show with Britt Campbell and Shawn Hogan. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 16–17

Tanya Nicolle: Live Comedy album recording

With Britt Campbell and Clare Belford. The Guild, Charlottetown

Dec 18

Ledwell & Haines Christmas Special

Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Dec 10

A Very RAD Medley

Presented by Roberts Acadamy of Dance. Celtic Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Dec 10

Holiday Mixtape 2.0

24Strong dance show. Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

Dec 15

Dan Hendricken & Friends

Comedy Show

With Shawn Hogan and Brittany Campbell. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 18 (brunch & evening)

Haus of Zhoosh Christmas

Drag Show

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 20–21

A Christmas Carol

Celtic Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Dec 22

Holiday Dreams, A Spectacular Holiday Cirque

Eastlink Centre, Charlottetown

Dec 29 (two shows)

Du ebag Theatre: Robin Hood

afternoon: Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside evening: Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Feb 5

Hyprov

Starring comedian Colin Mochrie and hypnotist Asad Mecci. Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

Mar 23

Bboyism

Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

Apr 1

dance umbrella: Musical Theatre Performance

The Mack, Charlottetown

Apr 4

Gerry Dee: Best Medicine Tour

Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

Apr 6

Snowed In Comedy Tour

Featuring Dan Quinn, Paul Myrehaug, Pete Zedlacher, and Erica Sigurdson. Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

Apr 15

Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Tour: Ted Morris & Cedric Newman

The Mack, Charlottetown

April 29

Ballet Jörgen’s Cinderella

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 6

dance umbrella: Year End Showcase

Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

…more at buzzpei.com

The Dan Hendricken & Friends Comedy Show is coming to Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown. Join Hendricken and fellow comedians Shawn Hogan and Brittany Campbell for a night of laughs on December 15.

Doors at 6 pm. Showtime is 8 pm. Tickets at trailside.ca.

Live comedy recording

Tanya Nicolle is making her rst album—Dec 16 & 17

Comedian Tanya Nicolle will be recording her first live comedy album this month. Featuring host Britt Campbell and opener Clare Belford, the live recordings will begin at 8 pm, December 16 and 17, at The Guild in Charlottetown.

Nicolle, who grew up in rural PEI, is often described as a small town comedian with big feelings. Her dark, self-deprecating humour, coupled with goofy observations, shines a light on her struggles with mental illness. Nicolle is a respected performer and producer who has been on stage at venues across Eastern Canada, on “A Showcase of the Funniest Women from Across the Maritimes,” and in 2022, she was a Top 10 finalist in SiriusXM’s Hubcap Comedy Festival’s Open Mic Competition. As a writer, Nicolle is the recipient of five Island Literary Awards.

The opening act, Clare Belford (Just For Laughs, New York Comedy Festival, Halifax Comedy Fest), has been making people laugh across the country for the better part of the last decade. Her debut album The Entire Cabbage was featured on Bullseye’s Best of 2021 episode on NPR.

Host Britt Campbell has been

described as intelligently inappropriate, dark, relatable and surprisingly kind. Their unique and bold take on life, relationships, human nature, family dynamics and queerness has made them stand out as one of Canada’s freshest new comedy voices.

Celebrate the holidays with this unique act in December and have your laughs recorded on Tanya Nicolle’s first live album. tanyanicollecomedy.com

Ledwell & Haines

Christmas shows at Trailside Music Hall and Kings Playhouse

Comedian Patrick Ledwell and musician Mark Haines bring their Christmas Special to Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown, December 8–11, and to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown, December 18 at 2 pm.

Mark Haines will bring his multi-instrumental gifts to the stage, re-interpreting Christmas favourites on guitar, fiddle, and piano.

Patrick Ledwell will perform comedy and slideshows that explore a range of helpful seasonal topics, from the dangers of traditional Christmas candy, to what pitfalls to avoid when re-gifting last year’s presents.

For tickets to Ledwell & Haines

Trailside Christmas, call 367-3311 or visit trailside.ca. Trailside welcomes group bookings for food and shows. For tickets to the Ledwell & Haines Christmas Special at Kings Playhouse, call 1-888-346-5666 or visit kingsplayhouse.com.

Comedian Tanya Nicolle

Patrick Ledwell (left) and Mark Haines

Charlottetown Legion dances

Dance to live bands every Saturday night from 9 pm–1 am at the Charlottetown Legion. The lineup is: Wannabees (Dec 3); Kim Albert (10); Spuds (17); Rustlers (31). All are welcome. 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.

DownStreet Social Dances

is not required to register. POISE for dancers is a performance presentation class for dancers who want to enhance their stage presence. With a focus on connecting to the music, being in the moment, connecting with the audience, and all the parts of dance beyond just learning the steps. Classes will take place on Thurs from 7–8 pm, starting Jan 12, and they are applicable to any dance style. Drop in West Coast Swing classes cover the fundamentals. The Level 1 class is held on Sat from 6–7 pm in Dec. The beginner class is held on Sat from 7–8 pm in Dec. Introduction to Bellydance with Zsuzsa takes place Dec 6 and 13 (flickering lights class) from 6:30–7:30 pm. Bring a hip scarf and veil (2m long) and shake and shimy to the music of Amr Diab. Other classes include Lindy Hop and Charleston. Info: downstreetdance@ gmail.com, @downstreetdance, downstreetdancestudio.setmore.com

Holiday Dance Workshop

Holiday Mixtape 2.0

Dance performance by 24Strong—Dec 10

A Social Dance is held on the third Saturday of each month at DownStreet Dance studio in Charlottetown. All levels are welcome and encouraged to attend. All dance styles, all styles of music, and no partner necessary. Admission is at the door or in advance at downstreetdancestudio.setmore.com. Info: downstreetdance@gmail.com

Adult dance classes

DownStreet Dance is a non-profit dance studio in Charlottetown dedicated to dance and movement for adults. Some of the upcoming classes on offer are listed below. Pay by the class or contact the studio about purchasing a class package. Learn Contemporary Iranian Dance on Dec 1 and 8 from 5–6 pm. This dance style is performed at festive occasions like weddings and Nowruz celebrations. Ballroom for Absolute Beginners on Dec 1, 8 and 15, teaches the basic figures of American-style Waltz and Foxtrot, as well as the basic frame, connections, posture, and ballroom etiquette. A partner

The Holiday Dance Workshop returns this year on Dec 28. PEI dancers of all styles and studios are invited to come together for a day of dance. After a two year hiatus, this year marks the 10th anniversary of the workshop, which aims to bring the community together through classes taught by off-Island choreographers. Now based in Toronto, director and choreographer Brittany Banks will return home as the workshop’s producer and lead instructor, with more faculty to be announced soon. Classes are available for all ages and include musical theatre, contemporary, step/tap, hip hop, heels and more. Email gottadancepei@gmail. com for more info and to reserve a dancer’s spot on Dec 28.

Modern Square Dancing

Modern Square dancing is good exercise, good for the mind, and great for having a good time. The club in Charlottetown is planning to hold class sessions in the new year for people who are interested in learning this form of dance. Modern Square dancing is not just for older people and it is not just country music, it is for anyone who likes to dance and meet up with other dancers. For more info, call 218-6399 or email cmrbelanger@live.ca.

24Strong will present Holiday Mixtape 2.0, an upbeat and inspiring dance performance for the whole family, at 7 pm on Dec 10 at the Confederation Centre of the Arts.

Audiences can expect exciting energy to fill the theatre, as 24Strong’s hundreds of dancers take the stage. Both recreational and competitive dance students have been working hard over their fall semester and are ready to perform for the community.

Routines will be showcased in the styles of tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, jazz funk, contemporary, and musical theatre.

Choreographers include Brigitte Carroll, Jessica Burrett, Jen Carter, Rebecca Lalonde, Grace Allen, Catherine Cummins, Elan Mackey, Kate Ferguson, Monica Norman, Braeden Woods, and studio owner, Lacey Koughan. 24strong.ca

A pair of 24Strong dancers SUBMITTED

Downtown Kitchen Party

Holiday edition at Havenwood Dance Studio—Dec 4

Havenwood Dance Studio is the host of a new Downtown Kitchen Party. Join them on December 4 at 7 pm for the holiday edition featuring multi-instrumentalist Julien Kitson, fiddler Luka Hall, vocalist Samel Sunil, and the Havenwood Step Dancers.

This month’s special guests are pop/country/electronic duo Ava & Lily. The 19-yearold identical twins are from Charlottetown. In the spring of 2019, Ava & Lily competed on Nickelodeon’s America’s Most Musical Family, making it to the semi-final round. Both are multi-instrumentalists (guitar, piano, mandolin and fiddle) with voices that compliment one another.

Complimentary homemade biscuits and hot apple cider will be served during the intermission.

SEASONAL MUSIC

A Village Christmas

The New Glasgow Christmas Choir will present the musical drama A Village Christmas at 7:30 pm, Dec 3 and 4, at the New Glasgow Christian church. Through music and drama, the performers will visit three villages at Christmas: one in the here and now on PEI; another from 200 years ago in Europe; and the third village is from 2000 years ago, the little town of Bethlehem. Admission is free but the choir hopes to raise enough money through donations to send a stable full of animals to a World Vision village. The gift of animals is a gift that keeps giving year after year. A stable full of animals can transform an entire community, changing the world one village at a time. This celebration of Christmas is for all ages. The church is located opposite the New Glasgow Lobster Suppers at 617 Route 258, New Glasgow.

Stratford on Dec 13 at 7 pm. Tickets may be purchased at the door or from choir members. Direct inquiries to tfmurphy2@ outlook.com.

Canticles in Candlelight: A Christmas Cantata

The St. Andrews Choir will present Canticles in Candlelight: A Christmas Cantata at St. Andrews United on Dec 16 at 7 pm. To celebrate Christmas, the Choir will sing a cantata accompanied by a chamber orchestra of professional musicians. Tickets can be purchased in advance by emailing saintandrews1969@ gmail.com or at the door the night of the concert. 7679 Trans Canada Hwy, Vernon Bridge

Christmas celebration for Haiti relief

Ava & Lily

For tickets, call 314-1800, email tickets@havenwoodstudios.ca or drop by the studio at 135 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Holiday Kitchen Party

Stories and songs at Harmony House in December

After a successful run last December, the Harmony House Holiday Kitchen Party is back this year with shows on select dates, December 2–20, at Harmony House in Hunter River.

Featuring Mike Ross, Alicia Toner, Trevor Grant, Joce Reyome, Brielle Ansems and Carlie Howell, the Holiday Kitchen Party is “a rousing and heartwarming evening of stories and songs,” says Ross, co-owner of Harmony House.

Bring friends, family or a staff party to enjoy an evening of dinner and joyous holiday music. Chef Andrew Nicholson has created a holiday

special to enjoy in the Harmony House Lounge before the show. To book a dinner reservation, call 964-2255. Seating is limited. Groups interested in booking staff parties should reach out by phone or email (harmonyhousepei@ gmail.com). Harmony House will be using the Hunter River Community Centre on select dates to accommodate larger groups for dinner.

The Harmony House Holiday Kitchen Party takes place Dec 2–3, 9–10, 15–17, and 20–22. Showtime is 8 pm. This is a 90-minute show with no intermission.

harmonyhousepei.com

A Joyful Sound

A Joyful Sound will ring out this Christmas season after a two-year Covid hiatus. New and returning choir members, under the intrepid direction of Christie Beck, have been brushing up on a collection of their favourite Christmas songs, from the sublime to the ridiculous. Elizabeth Wisnicki will accompany on piano. A Joyful Sound is a non-auditioned community choir with over thirty members. The choir has been going strong for forty plus years. The concert will take place at St. Mary’s in Souris (1 Longworth Ave) on Dec 4 at 2 pm and again at Hillcrest United in Montague (50 Wood Islands Hill) at 7 pm that same evening. Admission is by free will offering.

Stratford Choir Christmas

The Stratford Choir Christmas Concert will take place at Spring Park United in Charlottetown on Dec 11 at 3 pm. The Choir will be singing a few specially selected songs along with sharing the season with a sing-a-long of some traditional Christmas favourites. Single and family tickets at the door.

Christmas Day in the Morning

Charlottetown Legion Choir members return to the stage to present two live community concerts this month. Warm memories of Christmas morning will be evoked by wind instrument and piano accompaniment plus short story narratives and a sing-along of old favourites. Songs will include a lively Celtic-inspired piece “Shepherd’s Joy,” and English versions of popular French carols, “Sing We Now of Christmas” and “Bring a Torch Jeannette Isabella.” A light lunch will be available at no additional charge at concert’s end. With guest choir Teachers and Friends in Harmony, and under the direction of Travis Boudreau, performances will be held at Park Royal United in Charlottetown on Dec 11 at 2:30 pm, and at Our Lady of Assumption in

A Christmas celebration in support of Haiti relief will take place at the Irish Cultural Centre on Dec 17 at 8 pm. There will be musical entertainment by Chris Burke and the original music of the Montgomerys. Tickets are available at Alambé Coffee, 119 Kent St, Charlottetown or at the door on the day of the event. Everyone is welcome to attend. Email davidm2121@protonmail.com for info. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown

The Frost

Harmonia Girls’ Choir will hold their performance of The Frost at Park Royal United on Dec 17 at 7 pm. Singing of the changing seasons, the choir will also perform holiday favourites. Harmonia is Sirens’ principal education program for young singers. Tickets available at sirenschoir.com/concerts. 11 Christie Dr, Charlottetown

Brown Sisters Christmas

The Brown Sisters Christmas Concert will take place at Florence Simmons Performance Hall on Dec 18 at 6:30 pm. Kady, Karyn, Maria, Rachel and Rebekah Brown will perform songs to amp up the Christmas spirit. Doors open at 6 pm. Admission is by donation, with money going towards purchasing items to fill the community fridges in both Charlottetown and Summerside. There will be an intermission providing bar service and snack options. Holland College, 140 Weymouth St, Charlottetown

Central Queens United Christmas

Central Queens United in Hunter River invites one and all to their Christmas concert on Dec 18 at 7 pm. The festive program will feature Central Queens Musical Friends and include special guests to warm hearts and remind concert-goers of the reason for the season. Relax and leave stress at the door. A free will offering will be collected to assist a charity. 19848 PE-2, Hunter River

CONCERTS

Dec 1

Ava & Lily

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 1

Island Jazz feat. Grahame

Rhodes Free Jazz

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Dec 1

Linda McLean: Lyrics & Letters Concert

Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown

Dec 1

UPEI Wind Symphony recital

Steel Recital Hall, UPEI, Charlottetown

Dec 2

UPEI String Orchestra recital

Steel Recital Hall, UPEI, Charlottetown

Dec 2, 3, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22

Holiday Kitchen Party

Featuring Mike Ross, Alicia Toner,

Trevor Grant, Joce Reyome, Brielle Ansems and Carlie Howell. Harmony House, Hunter River

Dec 3

Got Blues Matinee Theresa

Malenfant & Scott Medford

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 3

Amanda Jackson & Roland

Beaulieu with Route 225

With Todd MacLean. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 3, 4

New Glasgow Christmas

Choir: A Village Christmas New Glasgow Christian, New Glasgow

Dec 4

Downtown Kitchen Party

Featuring Julien Kitson, Luka Hall, Samel Sunil, Havenwood Step Dancers, and special guests Ava & Lily. Havenwood Dance Studio, Charlottetown

Dec 4

Catherine MacLellan

Christmas Tour

With Tanya Davis and Nick Gauthier. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 4 (two shows)

A Joyful Sound

2 pm: St. Mary’s, Souris

7 pm: Hillcrest United, Montague

Dec 4

Christmas on the Town

Featuring Janet McGarry, Maxine MacLennan, Serge Bernard and Norman Stewart. Park Royal, Charlottetown

Dec 6

The Welshmen: Holiday Concert

Holland College Community Band. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 7

Kelley Mooney Christmas

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 8

Island Jazz Christmas feat.

Kelley Mooney

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Dec 8

Santa’s Angels Soiree with The Love Junkies

The Guild, Charlottetown

Christmas music plus the Vivaldi hit. St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

Holland College SoPA: Celtic and Acadian Concert

Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

UPEI Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, Women’s Vocal Ensemble and Music

Alumni recital

Steel Recital Hall, UPEI, Charlottetown

Dec 9, 10

Phase II Christmas Show

The Guild, Charlottetown

Dec 9, 10, 11

Back Home at Christmas

Featuring Gordon Belsher, Todd MacLean and Brad Fremlin.

Dec 9: St. John’s Presbyterian, Belfast

Dec 10: WI Hall, Stanley Bridge

Dec 11: Murray Harbour Recreation Centre, Murrary Harbour

Dec 10

UPEI Senior Recital: Melissa

Lewis, mezzo soprano

Steel Recital Hall, UPEI, Charlottetown

Dec 10

Tip Er Back: Christmas Concert

Irish Cultural Centre, Charlottetown

Dec 10

Winter’s Night

Sirens with Atlantic String Machine. St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

Dec 10

Black Umfolosi

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Dec 10

Virginia to Vegas

W.A. Murphy Student Centre, UPEI, Charlottetown

Dec 11

Sing Noël

Confederation Centre Youth Chorus. St. Paul’s Anglican, Charlottetown

Dec 11

Stratford Choir Christmas

Concert

Spring Park United, Charlottetown

Dec 11

Josée Boudreau and MAZ

Festival des Fêtes. Village musical acadien, Abram-Village

Dec 11, 13

Christmas Day in the Morning Concert

Charlottetown Legion Choir

Dec 11: Park Royal United, Charlottetown

Dec 13: Our Lady of Assumption, Stratford.

Dec 12

Black Umfolosi

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 13

Holland College SoPA: Rock & Country Concert

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 15

SoPA Blues Improv Concert

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Dec 15

Island Jazz feat. Holland College Students

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Dec 16

Boney M: Holiday Favourites and Classic Hits

Eastlink Centre, Charlottetown

Dec 16

Canticles in Candlelight: A Christmas Cantata

St. Andrews Choir. St. Andrews United, Vernon Bridge

Dec 16

Night Music with pianist Sarah Hagen

St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

Dec 17

Got Blues Matinee with Chris & Nick Gauthier

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 17

Andrew Waite Christmas

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 17

Mysterium: A Meditation on Christmas

Luminos Ensemble. St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

Dec 17

The Frost

Harmonia Girls’ Choir. Park Royal, Charlottetown

Dec 17

Catherine MacLellan Christmas Tour

With Tanya Davis and Nick Gauthier. Festival des Fêtes. Village musical acadien, Abram-Village

Dec 17

Chris Burke, The Montgomerys

A Christmas celebration in support of Haiti relief. Irish Cultural Centre, Charlottetown

Dec 17

Christmas on the Town

Featuring Janet McGarry, Maxine MacLennan, Serge Bernard and Norman Stewart. Celtic Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Dec 17

The Amabile Singers present: This Shining Night

Spring Park United, Charlottetown

Dec 17, 18

Lennie Gallant: The Innkeeper’s Christmas

Dec 17: Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

Dec 18: Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Dec 18

Song for a Winter’s Night

Summerside Community Choir. Trinity United, Summerside

Dec 18

A Very Forte Christmas

Forte Men’s Choir. Kirk of St. James, Charlottetown

Dec 18

Brown Sisters Christmas Concert

Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 18

Central Queens United

Christmas Concert

Central Queens United, Hunter River

Dec 18

Annual Holiday Hootenanny

Becca Griffin, Todd MacLean, Tim Hamming and guests. John Brown Grille, Charlottetown

Dec 19

A Logan Richard & Brandon

Howard Roy Christmas

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 20

Carleton Stone + Reeny

Smith

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 20

Barra MacNeils: East Coast Christmas

Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

Dec 22

Noah Malcolm & Friends

With Nadia & Nadine Haddad. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 22

Island Jazz Christmas Trio

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Dec 23

Tibb’s Eve with Swift Kick

PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Dec 23

Celebrating Our Traditions

Festival des Fêtes. Featuring Caroline Bernard, Rémi Arsenault, Marcella Richard, Louise Arsenault, Jonathan Arsenault, Wayne Robichaud and more. Village musical acadien, Abram-Village

Dec 23

Villages

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 26

The Love Junkies Boxing Day Bash

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 27

Honey I’m Home: Shania

Twain Barndance Tribute

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 28

Kiwi Jr. + Nap Eyes

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 29

Island Jazz feat. Jacob

Reddin

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Dec 29

The Darvel & Guests

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 30

Coyote + The Brood

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 31

Craig Fair presents: You

Should Be Dancin’ - Ultimate NYE Dance Party

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 31

Swift Kick

Capital New Year celebrations. Founder’s Food Hall & Market, Charlottetown

Jan 6

Katie McGarry: Miranda Lambert Tribute

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Jan 7

Nathan Wiley with band

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Jan 20–22

PEI Winter Bluegrass Festival

Featuring The Seldom Scene, Seth Mulder & Midnight Run, Ray Legere & Acoustic Horizon, Bluegrass Tradition, Shane Douthwright & The Virtuosos, Matt Lunn & Echo Mountain, Janet McGarry Band, Bluestreak, Stiff Family Band, and more. Delta Prince Edward, Charlottetown

Jan 22

PEI Symphony Orchestra:

Mahler’s Musings

Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

…more at buzzpei.com

Lyrics & Letters

Linda McLean in concert—Dec 1

Summerside Community Choir

Songs for a Winter’s Night and new a music director

The Summerside Community Choir will present Song for a Winter’s Night at Trinity United in Summerside on December 18 at 2 pm.

Songwriter Linda McLean will be in concert December 1 at 7:30 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. Doors open at 7 pm.

Linda McLean, Lyrics and Letters Concert, is the pairing of original songs with stories from her book, The Importance of Being Important, a revealing and emotional journey to creative recovery.

The show debuted in London, UK in 2020 and will be touring across Canada beginning this spring.

Single concert tickets available at the door (savings with bundles). Also on offer, the next day, is a one-day Creative Writing Workshop with Linda on December 2, 10 am–3 pm. Email linda@lindamclean.com to register.

After a two-year hiatus, the Summerside Community Choir is back, singing together in a brand-new practice space with a new music director, Krista Bryson.

Bryson is the current music director at Three Oaks Senior High School in Summerside. She brings her years of experience as an innovator and a music instructor to the choir.

“There’s a lot of excitement this year, with the appointment of Krista Bryson,” remarks Judy Logan, Choir president. “Krista’s affiliation with Three Oaks has allowed us the privilege of practicing in their state-of-the -art theatre space. Along with an influx of returning members and Three Oaks music students, the choir numbers

have doubled this year, with singers of all ages, fifteen to eighty-plus.” Bryson’s affiliation with students, musicians and music teachers across the Island promises a vibrant repertoire: “I envision a joyful, inclusive, multi-generation ensemble. I strive to program music that reaches our diverse membership, challenges us in a variety of ways, and that will connect with our audience. Also, I am pleased to collaborate with several musicians from the community,” she says.

Admission at the door. Doors open at 1:30 pm. The church is located at 90 Spring Street in Summerside.

New Music Director Krista Bryson SUBMITTED

Linda McLean

Winter’s Night

Atlantic String Machine and Sirens at St. Paul’s—Dec 10

Back Home at Christmas

Three concerts in three home communities

Gordon Belsher and Todd MacLean will team up with Brad Fremlin again for three concerts this Christmas season, one in each of their home communities in PEI.

Atlantic String Machine and Sirens will present Winter’s Night on December 10 at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown. There will be two concerts, a matinee at 2:30 pm and an evening show at 7:30 pm.

The event will see two of the Island’s most revered classical ensembles collaborate on several pieces.

“Tundra,” by the Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo, which captures the shimmering stillness of the season through floating melodic lines atop a gently pulsating minimalist backdrop. Jocelyn Hagen’s “How to Survive Winter” illustrates the many moods of frost times with a musically diverse interplay between the strings and voices. It sets a rich text by poet Julia Klatt Singer that urges the listener to “wrap your body in darkness” and “carry the weight of night.”

The program will also feature individual performances by both ensembles. Audience members will be uplifted by Finnish composer Mia Makaroff’s “Spes,” which combines two texts, one in Latin and one in Sami, to spin a beautiful sonic exploration of hope. And Soila Sariola’s “Pakkanen” will see the choir create textures using words, whispers, and body percussion that tell a story of being isolated and lost while journeying through cold and snow.

Following the theme of northern lands, Atlantic String Machine will offer an arrangement of the Swedish fiddle tune “Gladlåten.” Translated into English, the title means ‘happy tune’ and the lilting quality of the dance will leave listeners in great spirits. Also on the program will be Canadian composer Andrew Balfour’s “Pytor’s Dream,” a stunning symphonic work commissioned for and premiered by Toronto’s Tafelmusik in 2019. Audience members will also be treated to a host of other surprises from a variety of genres in classic String Machine fashion.

Tickets are available online at sirenschoir.com/concerts, atlanticstringmachine.com, or at the door, space permitting.

Belsher plays guitar and mandola, and is the main vocalist in the trio. MacLean will deliver velvet saxophone renditions of favourite Christmas melodies, and he will charm all on the ukelele and piano. Fremlin is a piano virtuoso and a percussionist master. He does have a secret talent, but one must come to the show to discover it.

The first concert will be held at 7 pm on December 9 at St. John’s Presbyterian in Belfast.

On December 10, the trio will perform at the WI Hall in Stanley Bridge at 7:30 pm.

The final concert is a matinee at 2 pm on December 11 at the Murray Harbour Recreation Centre.

Tickets are available at the door and in advance using PayPal on Gordon’s website at guernseycove.ca.

Barra MacNeils

Confederation Centre—Dec 20

The Barra MacNeils East Coast Christmas Show will be held December 20 at 7:30 pm at Confederation Centre of the Arts and will feature a mix of traditional seasonal fare along with stories and dance, stamped with harmonies and instrumental stylings. The Barra MacNeils East Coast Christmas show is crafted to bring a Celtic spin to traditional favourites and their own original musical treasures. confederationcentre.com

Sirens (above) and Atlantic String Machine

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Mysterium

A Meditation on Christmas at St. Paul’s—Dec 17

This Shining Night

Seasonal music at Spring Park United—Dec 17

Gloria!

Island Choral Society concert at St. Paul’s—Dec 9

In a candlelit setting, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season will fade away and the ethereal voices of Luminos Ensemble will draw the listener into a meditation on the meaning of Christmas.

PEI’s professional vocal ensemble will interweave familiar carols with lesser-known historical and worldwide traditions, including 12th-century chant by Hildegard of Bingen, adaptations of carols by Indigenous composer Andrew Balfour, and a melding of Indian and Western classical styles by Indian-American composer Reena Esmail, all in addition to traditional favourites including “O Come Emmanuel” and “Silent Night.”

Unique and serene, this is a concert to soothe the hurried soul.

The concert begins at 7:30 pm. St. Paul’s is located at 101 Prince Street in Charlottetown. Tickets are available at luminosensemble.com.

Memorial Carol Sing

St. Paul’s—Dec 4

Memorial Carol Sing at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown offers an opportunity for attendees beyond singing the music of the Christmas season and hearing a few performed pieces on December 4 at 2 pm. Attendees are able to participate by actively honouring a fondly remembered person. That person’s name can be inscribed on a star which will be placed on the Memorial Tree in the church’s sanctuary. The event will features about an hour of Advent and Christmastime music, almost all participatory.

Anyone can have a person’s name inscribed on a star to be placed on the Memorial Tree. The names will also be printed in the keepsake programme, so long as the required donation is received by November 29. Donations help maintain the church’s 1936 Cassavant organ. Tax receipts are available. To request a star, call 961-3275, email stay@cableheadpei.com or visit stpaulschurch.ca. Memorial stars will also be available at the door.

The event will be live-streamed via a link available at stpaulschurch.ca. Donations are not required to attend. There will be refreshments.

Info: 892-1691; stpauls@pei.aibn. com; stpaulschurch.ca.

The Amabile Singers under the direction of Ruth Ann Read-Clay, and joined by pianist and flautist Morgan Saulnier, Celtic harpists Lana Quinn and Lise Morin, and trombonist Jacob Reddin, will present an evening of seasonal music this month in Charlottetown. Part of the proceeds will go to Gifts From the Heart.

This year’s concert, This Shining Night, will be held at 7 pm on December 17 at Spring Park United. The program will include seasonal selections and pieces by well-known contemporary composers ( Lauridsen, Rutter and Whitacre). Featured will be pieces by two Canadian composers plus “Sure on This Shining Night” by Samuel Barber. The audience will also have the opportunity to join in the singing of a medley of carols.

Admission is at the door, with part of the proceeds going to Gifts From the Heart, a non-profit organization run by Betty Begg-Brooks and her volunteers, providing necessities to low-income Islanders and those facing temporary hardship. Presently, they have a record 1500 families and individuals registered. Their Christmas program, Project Love, aims to provide their clients a memorable Christmas: a holiday food hamper, new clothes, toys and housewares.

Sing Noël

Confederation Centre Youth Chorus at St. Paul’s—Dec 11

The Island Choral Society will present a glowing array of Christmastide pieces, along with Vivaldi’s choral hit, the Gloria in D, on December 9. Singing will begin at 7:30 pm in the acoustical warmth of St. Paul’s in Charlottetown.

The 25-member SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) choir is led by Dr. Margot Rejskind, noted for her leadership of the professional Luminos

Forte A

Ensemble and other vocal groups, as well as her teaching at UPEI. Morgan Saulnier will provide piano accompaniment, and the Gloria features a six-piece ensemble of strings and other instruments.

There will be festive arrangements of beloved carols: See Amid the Winter’s Snow, Ding Dong Merrily, Lo How a Rose paired with a canon of Es ist ein Ros, In Dulci Jubilo, Rutter’s Nativity Carol, and Silent Night. There will also be some traditional audience sing-along.

The feature is the Gloria in D (RV 589). Antonio Vivaldi wrote more than 500 concertos, about 90 chamber pieces, and 46 operas, but his standout choral work is this Gloria. He composed it in about 1715 for the choir of the Ospedale della Pietà, a sort of orphanage-home for girls (mostly the illegitimate daughters of Venetian noblemen). It is a half-hour of 12 short cantata-like sections which exudes a sunny nature—aptly fitting into the joyous mood of Christmas music.

Tickets for Gloria! are available online at icsgloria.eventbrite.ca and at the door.

St. Paul’s is located on Grafton St (at Church St) in Charlottetown.

For more information email islandchoralsociety@gmail.com

Very Forte Christmas

at

Still. There’s a wistful rendition of I’ll Be Home for Christmas, and the lilting melodies of Gesu Bambino and Carol of the Bells. For novelty, they added spirited arrangements of Dance of the Sugar-plum Fairy and Deck the Halls in 7/8. Audience members will also enjoy some sing-along of traditional carols.

Tickets for A Very Forte Christmas are available online at averyfortechristmas.eventbrite.ca and at the door.

The Kirk is located on Pownal Street (at Fitzroy St) in Charlottetown.

The Forte Men’s Choir will deliver their annual choral Christmas card, A Very Forte Christmas, at 2:30 pm on December 18 at the Kirk of St. James in Charlottetown.

The Confederation Centre Youth Chorus will perform their holiday show Sing Noël as part of LIVE @ the Centre at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown on December 11. Their performance will include classic and contemporary Christmas carols, and the audience is encouraged to join the festivities and sing along. confederationcentre.com

The 14-member TTBB (Tenor 1, Tenor 2, Bass 1, Bass 2) choir is led by Dr. Margot Rejskind, noted for her leadership of the professional Luminos Ensemble and other vocal groups, as well as her teaching at UPEI. Jacqueline Sorenson Young will provide piano accompaniment, and Morgan Saulnier will add her flute to some of the pieces.

The rich four-part blend of men’s voices gives warm depth to reflective pieces like O Holy Night, Ave Maria, Yuletide Fires, Peace Peace and Still

Gordon Boothroyd Memorial Sing-along

York United—Dec 3

York United will host the Gordon Boothroyd Memorial Christmas Singalong on December 3 at 7 pm.

All are welcome to spend an enjoyable evening singing popular Christmas songs accompanied by a band. Admission is by donation. 757 Rte 25, York

UPEI recitals

Presented by the Department of Music

The UPEI Department of Music will present several recitals this month, with performances featuring UPEI Music students, alumni and community members.

The members of the UPEI Wind Symphony return to live performance for the first time in a year on December 1 with a program of works by British composers, including Philip Sparke’s playful and expressive “Hanover Festival,” Ralph Vaughan William’s iconic “Folk Song Suite” (including the original 4th movement, “Sea Songs”), a set of three musical “Portraits of the North” by British Canadian composer Robert Buckley, and the first movement of Edward Gregson’s “Tuba Concerto” featuring UPEI Music student Olive MacPhail as soloist.

Under the direction of Natalie Williams Calhoun, the UPEI String Orchestra will perform a recital on December 2 featuring composers Bloch, Vivaldi and Bartok, among others. Laura Ono, piano, will be the featured soloist.

On December 9, the UPEI Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, Womens’

Night Music

Sarah Hagen solo recital—Dec 16

Night Music with pianist Sarah Hagen returns December 16 at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown.

Inspired by Natkirke, a contemplative initiative in Denmark, the carefully curated hour-long programme will include works by Bach, Schumann, Rachmaninoff, and others. This edition of Night Music will pay special homage to trees.

The recital will begin at at 8 pm. In the spirit of shared reflection, the

Vocal Ensemble and Music Alumni, under the musical direction of Sung Ha Shin-Bouey and assisted by pianist Leo Marchildon, will present an eclectic mixture of choral music and Christmas repertoire. Included in the program are Handel’s “The King Shall Rejoice”, “Candlelight Carol” by John Rutter, Gjeilo’s “O Magnum Mysterium” for mixed chorus and cello solo, featuring Natalie Williams Calhoun, among many other choral gems.

Finally, Melissa Lewis, mezzo soprano, will present her Senior Recital on December 10 featuring repertoire that includes “The Confession Stone” by Robert Fleming and additional works by Robert Schumann and Henry Purcell. Melissa is a student in the studio of Professor Sung Ha Shin-Bouey. This recital is free of charge.

Unless otherwise indicated, tickets to all the aforementioned recitals will be available for purchase with cash at the doort. All recitals take place at 7:30 pm at Steel Recital Hall, UPEI campus, Charlottetown. Accessible parking is available and the venue has an accessible entrance via elevator.

Purchase your weekend pass by December 31 to receive Early Bird Price of only $80 (tax + fees included) and to obtain special discount rates at the Delta Prince Edward starting at $159 /night (+ tax based on availability)

audience is encouraged to enter quietly, and pieces will flow from one to the next without pause or applause.

Admission is Pay-what-you-will at the door. St. Paul’s is located at the corner of Prince and Grafton Streets in Charlottetown.

sarahhagen.com

Ray Legere & Acoustic Horizon (NB) • Bluegrass Tradition (NS) • Shane Douthwright & The Virtuosos (NB) • Matt Lunn & Echo Mountain (NS) • Janet McGarry Band (PEI) with

UPEI Wind Symphony

Solitary Clarinet

Karem

Simon

NEW RELEASES ALBUMS SINGLES

met the highest artistic standards. Dr Simon is grateful to UPEI staffers Lisa Bulman Taylor and Mike Needham, who handled the graphic artwork and photography respectively.

The album is available on all streaming services. Physical copies may be purchased at the UPEI Department of Music Office.

Between her grandfather Tommy Gallant and her deep Acadian roots, Kari Lyn has spent her whole life surrounded by music and storytelling. Her debut album, Hit the Ground, was nominated for the 2020 Music PEI Top Rock Album.

karilynmusic.com

“Christmas Morning Co ee”

Lawrence Maxwell

“Daylight”

Kari Lyn

Dr. Karem Simon, Professor of Clarinet at UPEI, has released his first solo album, Solitary Clarinet

The culmination of an eight-year journey, Solitary Clarinet is a collection of 13 pieces for clarinet alone. Included are some of Professor Simon’s favourite clarinet monologues—character pieces, meditations, songs without words, dances without movement. Spanning three centuries these works encompass transcriptions, staples of the clarinet repertoire, etudes, and contemporary compositions.

The album was recorded throughout the summer of 2020 during the height of the pandemic. The Dr. Steel Recital Hall was converted into a recording studio, and sessions occurred late at night to avoid sound from campus bleeding into the hall.

Sound engineer Steve Bellamy and producer Amy Simon, both UPEI music alumni and former students of Dr. Simon, were pivotal throughout all sessions ensuring that the playing

PEI singer-songwriter Kari Lyn Blacquiere has a new single out. “Daylight,” from her forthcoming EP Nightmarin’, was released on November 14.

“‘Daylight’ was a happy last minute addition to my EP. Its haunting sound reminds you of what could have been and knowing you are better off without.” says Kari Lyn. “It showcases an inner struggle, fighting between light and dark, good and bad, everything the EP itself encompasses.”

PEI musician Lawrence Maxwell recently released “Christmas Morning Coffee,” a hopeful new single for families dealing with divorce and loss.

The holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year, but for some, it’s a time that can bring up memories of loved ones gone too soon and families that have grown apart. That was the inspiration for Maxwell’s latest single, a song that reflects on his own experience.

While the themes are heavy, the message is hopeful. Maxwell says, “For this song I wanted to share my own experiences and feelings throughout the tougher years, because I’ve never heard a Christmas song that goes into these topics. I think it’s something that a lot of people can relate to, and I want to show them what beauty can come from these seemingly challenging moments.”

The single was recorded at The Hill Sound Studio with producer/

engineer Adam Gallant. Ben Aitken, Josh Langille, Justyn Young, and Sam Langille are featured on the track, which was mastered by Don Chapman. Photography

“It Snowed All Christmas Day” Blossoms

“It Snowed All Christmas Day” was written as a children’s Christmas song by Wayne Francis and originally performed by his daughters, the Blossoms, as young sisters growing up in Charlottetown.

Courtney, Caitlin and Cassie Francis are now young adults who live and work in varied locations from Australia to Atlantic Canada. When they reunited in PEI in the summer of 2022 for the first time in over three years, they re-recorded “It Snowed All Christmas Day.”

The recording was produced and mixed at Grant Avenue Studio in Hamilton, Ontario by Bob Doidge, who also played bass. The Blossoms were also accompanied by Grand Falls, Newfoundland native Amy King on backing vocals and Wayne Francis on guitars and keyboard.

The Christmas single is now streaming and available locally in Charlottetown at Back Alley Music and online at waynefrancis.bandcamp.com

by Stewart MacLean with artwork/graphic design by Brandon Hood.

Resolving disputes when relationships matter.

Festival des Fêtes

Three concerts and a meal at Village musical acadien

Three concerts, one of which will be accompanied by a three-course meal, have been planned for the 2022 Festival des Fêtes at Village musical acadien (VMA) in Abram-Village.

The first concert will feature singer/ actress Josée Boudreau and MAZ, a New Brunswick group consisting of Isabelle Bourgeois, Ginette Caissie, Denise Guitard, Alex O’Brien, JeanMarc O’Brien, Guy Mazerolle.

The show will be held December 11 at 2 pm, and promises familiar holiday tunes and anecdotes that will create the atmosphere of a big family party. Tickets are available at the door and online at villagemusical.com.

Catherine MacLellan will bring her 2022 Christmas Tour to the Village musical acadien on December 17 at 6:30 pm. The JUNO Award-winning folk artist will be accompanied on stage by special guest Tanya Davis and guitarist Nick Gauthier. This concert will be interspersed with a three-course Christmas supper prepared by Chef Greg Arsenault, assisted by Sous Chef Jonathan Duguay. Tickets for the full meal and the show, must be purchased in advance at villagemusical.com.

The VMA tradition of holding a multi-generational Christmas concert, as close to Christmas as possible, continues for the 16th consecutive year on December 23, beginning at 7 pm. The annual concert, Celebrating Our Traditions, will showcase local artists Caroline Bernard, Rémi Arsenault, Marcella Richard, Louise Arsenault, Jonathan Arsenault, Wayne Robichaud, as well as guests from various generations.

The final show will be full of traditional songs, familiar carols, some new

Christmas songs, fiddle tunes, dancing, comedy and surprises, delighting audience members of all ages. While the show is primarily in French, the English-speaking audience is equally appreciative of the annual event. Adult, student and family-priced tickets will only be available at the door. Preschoolers will get in free. villagemusical.com

Tip Er Back Christmas

Holiday Hootenanny

The annual Holiday Hootenanny featuring Christmas Siblings: Becca Griffin, Todd MacLean, Tim Hamming, and guests will take place at John Brown Richmond Street Grille on Dec 18. Doors open at 7 pm. Show at 7:30 pm. Admission is pay-what-you-can, with all proceeds going to the Upper Room Hospitality Ministry.

Celebrating Our Traditions performers (front, l-r): Wayne Robichaud, Louise Arsenault, Jonathan Arsenault, (back, l-r): Marcella Richard, Rémi Arsenault, and Caroline Bernard.

SUBMITTED

The Tip Er Back Christmas concert will take place at the Irish Cultural Centre on Dec 10 at 8 pm. Doors open at 7 pm. Featuring Allan Betts, Clive Currie, Wade Murray and Cynthia MacLeod. Admission at the door. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown

Christmas Tour 2022

Catherine MacLellan with Tanya Davis and Nick Gauthier

JUNO Award-winner Catherine MacLellan is touring the Maritimes with her Christmas Show this season, sharing beloved classics, self-penned holiday songs and some rare gems. The Catherine MacLellan Christmas Tour 2022 will feature two PEI performances, December 4 at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown and December 17 at Village musical acadien in Abram-Village. MacLellan will be accompanied on stage by special guest Tanya Davis and guitarist Nick Gauthier.

The PEI-based singer-songwriter says, “I’ve always loved the music of Christmas, and the fun times singing in kitchens with friends and family over a glass of eggnog. That is the energy I’ll be bringing with me, hoping that people sing along and catch some of that holiday spirit!”

Last year, MacLellan released her first Christmas album, a self-engineered and self-produced EP, which includes the original single “Calling You Home (for the Holidays)” and three beloved classics, “In The Bleak Midwinter,” “Blue Christmas,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

“I love the coziness of winter, it’s a time for introspection but also a time

The Welshmen

Holland College Community Band holiday concert—Dec 6

The Holland College Community Band, The Welshmen, will present its 14th annual holiday concert on December 6 at 7:30 pm in the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown.

The band is comprised of members from all walks of life—from university and college students to music graduates, community members, and many long-time musicians. The band gives musicians the opportunity to make music together on a weekly basis and to perform in public concerts throughout the year.

Under the direction of Christine Blanchard, the band is rehearsing seasonal favourites, but Blanchard said the arrangements are far from standard: “This year’s concert theme is Holiday Tradition with a Twist, so be prepared for some cool variations on some popular tunes,” she said.

Admission is free, with donations to the band fund or to the food bank gratefully accepted.

for gathering around fires and feasts. Christmas shows bring in all of that for me, the balance between joyful silliness and the sacred. It makes me feel like a child again,” says MacLellan.

As part of the 2022 Festival des Fêtes at Village musical acadien in Abram-Village, the December 17 show will be accompanied by threecourse Christmas supper prepared by Chef Greg Arsenault and Sous Chef Jonathan Duguay. Tickets for the full meal and the show, must be purchased in advance at villagemusical.com.

For tickets to Trailside, visit trailside.ca. For more information, visit catherinemaclellan.com.

Bonshaw Sing-along

Bonshaw Hall—Dec 17

Christmas on the Town

Featuring country, folk, Celtic, roots and bluegrass

Christmas on the Town, a family Christmas concert, will present two shows this holiday season—at Park Royal United in Charlottetown on December 4 at 2 pm and at the College of Piping Celtic Performing Arts Centre in Summerside on December 17 at 7:30 pm.

Christmas on the Town performers include Maxine MacLennan, Janet McGarry, Serge Bernard and Norman Stewart, all seasoned performers in their own right.

The idea of a Christmas show came about when these four friends were sharing songs over a late summer campfire.They discovered that there are a lot of commonalities in their music backgrounds. All were primarily raised on country music and over time branched into bluegrass and Celtic, which share the same roots in traditional English, Scottish, and Irish music. They all love Christmas music so they thought it would be fun to do a Christmas show. The result? Christmas on the Town.

This holiday show will treat the audience to a unique variety of songs with a little country, folk, Celtic,

roots and bluegrass music—there is something for everyone. Included are timeless carols, ballads, original songs, as well as songs the audience can join in on too.

The show will be presented in an intimate setting, gathering around a condenser mic—Opry style—on special numbers. Audience members will feel as though they are sitting in their living room with acoustic guitars, mandolin, banjo, bodhran and harmonies.

The artists will have CDs available for sale at the shows.

PEI Winter Bluegrass Festival

1st annual event set for Charlottetown—Jan 20–22

Local, Maritime and US bands will be showcased at the 1st Annual PEI Winter Bluegrass Festival to be held January 20–22 at the Delta Prince Edward in Charlottetown.

The 5th annual Bonshaw Christmas Sing-along will be held at the Bonshaw Hall on December 17 at 7 pm.

Join community members for an evening with Santa, sing-alongs, and hot cider and cookies.

Special guests, storyteller Cian O Morain and Mary MacGillivray, will provide entertainment.

Admission is by donation and free for children.

Presented by the PEI Bluegrass & Old Time Music Society, the festival will feature bluegrass versions of country, rock and pop music by The Seldom Scene from Maryland, a fresh spin on traditional bluegrass music with Seth Mulder & Midnight Run from Tennessee, award-winning music by legendary Canadian bluegrass musician Ray Legere of New Brunswick, and PEI’s Janet McGarry, five-time Eastern Canadian Bluegrass Awards’ Female Vocalist of the Year.

PEI’s Bluestreak and the Stiff Family will also be performing, along with New Brunswick’s Shane Douthwright & the Virtuosos, as well as Nova Scotia’s Bluegrass Tradition and Matt Lunn & Echo Mountain. More bands will be announced soon.

The Society has been promoting

the best in Eastern Canada’s bluegrass music scene for over 30 years with its annual summer bluegrass festival and social events. Some of the best music happens late in the evening at a jam under someone’s RV canopy. Organizers aim to bring the warmth and magic of their summertime field event, usually experienced under the bright stars of a moonlit sky, uptown to the snazzy crystal chandeliers of the Delta ballrooms. There will be plenty of opportunities to jam, so bring friends and instruments.

Vendors of the Downtown Charlottetown market will be set up for local browsing and shopping, and a variety of bluegrass jams, workshops and activities are scheduled.

Limited seating is available for this event. Early Bird Weekend Passes are on sale until December 31 at 569-5600, eventbrite.ca and peibluegrass.ca. Weekend Pass holders can also obtain special room rates at the Delta Prince Edward, based on availability.

(l-r): Serge Bernard, Janet McGarry, Maxine MacLennan, and Norman Stewart

MUSIC ONGOING

ceilidhs, dances, sessions…

Assumption Parish Ceilidh

A ceilidh takes place every third Sunday of the month from 2-4 pm at Assumption Parish Hall in Stratford. The Christmas ceilidh on Dec 18 will feature Norman LeClair, Leo Gallant, Randy Cheverie, Paul Chandler, Dave Moore and Ian Hunter, with special guests, The LeClair Family and Annette Hollis & Friends. A 50/50 draw, tea and light refreshments are included with admission. Proceeds go to Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. Hosted by Assumption Knights of Columbus and Assumption Catholic Women’s League. 145 Stratford Rd, Stratford.

Blues Jam at Baba’s Plain Dirty Blues band plays at Baba’s Lounge on the last Saturday of each month (Dec 31) from 5:30–8 pm. Admission is by donation. Follow Plain Dirty Blues on FB for updates. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Ceilidh in the City

Ceilidh in the City wraps up for the season with a Christmas Ceilidh featuring Abbie Marie & Luka Hall on Dec 7 at 7:30 pm at the Jack Blanchard Centre. The ceilidh is family-friendly. Canteen and bar service is available. peimusicman@gmail. com. 7 Pond St, Charlottetown.

Dunsta nage Ceilidh

The Dunstaffnage Ceilidh is held on the first Sunday of each month at 7 pm at the Dunstaffnage School Centre. Hosted by Road Masters Band and guest entertainers. There is a 50/50 draw. Admission at the door. 13529 St. Peter’s Rd, Dunstaffnage. 626-1698

Fortune Pub Night

Live music is scheduled at the Fish for the Five Draw held weekly from 7–10 pm on Fridays to Dec 30 at Fortune Community Centre. The draw takes place at 8:30 pm. Licensed bar. Follow @ Fortune Community Centre on FB for the weekly lineup. 220 Fortune Wharf Rd North, Fortune.

Got Blues Matinee

Blues matinee with Chris Roumbanis, Reg Ballagh, Mike Robicheau and special guest(s) from 2–4 pm. Upcoming guests are: Theresa Malenfant and Scott Medford (Dec 3); and Chris Gauthier and Nick Gauthier (17). Trailside Music Hall, 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Harmony House Lounge

Piano Wednesdays with Max Keenlyside (to Dec 14) and Live in the Lounge Fridays with a new special guest each week (call ahead to confirm). Open for dinner Wednesday-Saturday, 5–9 pm. Music from 6:30–8 pm. 19814 Rte 2, Hunter River. harmonyhousepei.com

Island Jazz

Island Jazz takes place on Thursdays at Baba’s Lounge. Top local musicians perform original music, standards,jazzand pop favourites. Each show features a different group and two sets starting at 8 pm. Admission is by donation.

Lineup: Grahame Rhodes Free Jazz (Dec 1); Island Jazz Christmas with Kelley Mooney (8); Holland College Students (15); Island Jazz Christmas Trio (22); and Jacob Reddin (29). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

The Jack Pine Folk Club

Once per month, Shane Pendergast hosts and features folk music and poetry from guest performers. The event follows the traditions of coffeehouses in the 1960s. This month’s folk club on Dec 21 will feature Dennis Ellsworth, Eddy Quinn, fiddler Fiona MacCorquodale, and poet Emily Cann. Admission is cash at the door. Doors open at 7 pm, showtime 7:30 pm. The Pour House 189 Great George St, Charlottetown

The Lucky Bean - Stratford

Open Mic with Robert McMillan takes place every Sunday from 2–5 pm at the The Lucky Bean in Stratford, 17 Glen Stewart Dr. All are welcome.

Schooner Sessions

Schooner Sessions with Mark Douglas and friends take place weekly on Thursdays at 7 pm at The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown

Stratford Ceilidh

A ceilidh takes place at the Robert L. Cotton Centre on the second Sunday of each month from 7–9:30 pm. Featuring local entertainers and a light lunch. The venue is air-conditioned. Admission at the door with all proceeds going to Camp Gencheff. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford

Sturgeon Ceilidh

A ceilidh takes place at St Paul’s Parish Hall in Sturgeon every other week on Sundays from 6:30–9 pm. Featuring live music, fiddling, singing, comedy and fun. Everyone is welcome. Doors open at 6 pm. 1133 Cambridge Rd, Route 17a,

Sturgeon

Summerside Kitchen Party

Kitchen Party at the Summerside Legion every Saturday from 2–5 pm. Featuring Rheal Arsenault, Andy Paynter and a different special guest each event. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside. 436-2091

Sunday Sessions

Sunday Sessions, traditional music with host fiddler Roy Johnstone, take place weekly on Sundays from 2–5 pm at The Old Triangle. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown

Trailside Music Hall

Some of the upcoming musical performances

Andrew Waite Christmas

December 17, 8 pm

Carleton Stone & Reeny Smith

Performing at Trailside Music Hall—Dec 20

Andrew Waite Christmas Concert will feature Waite’s all-star band for an evening of songs from his catalogue, as well as some holiday classics, Christmas singalongs, and a couple of surprise guests.

Waite is a 2023 CFMA nominee for New/Emerging Artist(s) of the Year and the recipient of the 2022 ECMA for Solo Artist of the Year.

Villages

Dec 23, 8 pm

and Football Money (2020).

Formed in Halifax, NS, in 2012, Nap Eyes have quietly become one of indie rock’s most dependable bands, releasing four critically acclaimed records and touring the world over. Centered around the songcraft of singer-songwriter Nigel Chapman and fleshed out by longtime collaborators Seamus Dalton (drums), Josh Salter (bass) and Brad Loughead (guitar), Nap Eyes’ music recalls a number of familiar yet disparate touchstones ranging from The Velvet Underground to The Microphones.

Ultimate New Years Eve Dance Party

Dec 31

Cape Breton band Villages is coming to Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on December 23.

The folk-rock quartet from Cape Breton Island features Matt Ellis, Travis Ellis, Jon Pearo, and Archie Rankin.

Villages’ new album, Dark Island, is slated to be released in February on Sonic Records. The concept of Dark Island is metaphorical and literal. Villages marries metaphor to roots on 11 tracks that offer an experience meant to echo a visit to Cape Breton itself—otherworldly, euphoric, sobering, celebratory and reverent.

Kiwi Jr. and Nap Eyes

Dec 28, 8 pm

Kiwi Jr. and Nap Eyes will be on stage at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on December 28.

Toronto-based indie-rock band Kiwi Jr. features Jeremy Gaudet on vocals, Mike Walker on bass, Brohan Moore on drums, and Brian Murphy (Alvvays) on guitar. The band albums include, Chopper (2022), Cooler Returns (2021),

Craig Fair Music Productions will present the Ultimate New Years Eve Dance Party on December 31 in Charlottetown.

Studio 54 was the club to be at in the late 70’s and early 80’s, and this night promises to be just that.

Groove the night away to nine musicians, six singers, surprise featured performances, and two DJ’s trading back and forth for five hours that will have party-goers dancing their way into 2023.

The party will take place at both Trailside Music Hall and the Salvador Dali Café in the Arts Hotel, 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Tickets for all trailside shows are available at trailside.ca.

Cape Breton songwriter and Nova Scotia-based R&B artist Reeny Smith will be on stage December 20 at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown.

Carleton Stone is a charismatic performer and soulful songwriter hailing from Cape Breton. Carleton recently released his self-titled album produced by Juno Award-winning Hawksley Workman. The new album, released on GroundSwell Music, sparkles with smart, pop-country energy, clever hooks and an infectious exuberance.

An outstanding writer, Carleton has written songs for and with such diverse artists as Donovan Woods, Classified featuring Snoop Dogg, Ria Mae, Bobby Bazini, and Neon Dreams. Carleton has three solo albums to his credit and has toured internationally for the better part of the last decade.

Singer, songwriter and producer Reeny Smith has been making a name for herself as one of the top artists in the R&B/Soul genre in Canada today. Combining her roots as a choir singer in the Baptist church with her love of

90’s R&B and Soul, Smith’s powerful, rich vocals, musical craftsmanship, and captivating live performances have led her to become one of the most notable artists in her field. Coupled with her innate ability as a storyteller, Smith’s lyrics skillfully pivot between heartfelt, meaningful, and satirical with ease.

The two-time ECMA winner also has a total of six Music NS Awards, most recently winning African Nova Scotian Artist of the Year and Musician of the Year in 2022.

Smith released her first ever Christmas EP, Where You At Santa? on November 18. With a modern take on some of her Christmas favourites and brand new songs that are sure to be contemporary classics, Where You At Santa? is a modern musical celebration of the holiday season. The majority of the songs were written, performed, and produced by Smith herself.

Doors open at 6 pm. Showtime is 8 pm. Tickets available at trailside.ca. carletonstone.com iamreeny.com

The

Carleton Stone (left) and Reeny Smith

MEAGHAN DOWNEY SUBMITTED

Kiwi Jr

Nap Eyes

Craig Fair

Virginia to Vegas

Indie-pop show at UPEI Student Union Centre—Dec 10

Whitecap Entertainment presents Virginia to Vegas at UPEI’s W.A. Murphy Student Centre in Charlottetown on December 10. Doors at 7 pm. Showtime is 8 pm. With over 645 million streams, this singer-songwriter-producer is best known for his indie-pop choruses and sticky electronic melodies.

An independent artist with a clear vision of what he wants sonically, visually and emotionally, Derik Baker of Virginia to Vegas has gained critical acclaim globally for his unique sound, chart-topping radio hits, and multi-platinum selling records.

This is a 19+ event.

whitecapentertainment.com

Black Umfolosi

At Harbourfront Theatre and Trailside Music Hall

Marking their PEI debut, Zimbabwe’s globe-trotting vocal group Black Umfolosi will perform two shows onthe Island in December. The group’s first show will take place at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on December 10, and the second at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on December 12.

Black Umfolosi will bring their

infectious blend of joyous music and traditional gumboot dance to the stage, performing a combination of their usual repertoire and holiday selections.

Their performances are energy driven and engaging, mixing a gentleness of spirit and song with an exuberance in dance.

harbourfronttheatre.com

trailside.ca

Derik Baker of Virginia to Vegas

Santa’s Angels

Soiree

Fundraiser at The Guild with The Love Junkies

Santa’s Angels Soiree featuring The Love Junkies will take place December 8 at The Guild in Charlottetown.

Every Christmas morning, Santa’s Angels visit hundreds of homes across Prince Edward Island. With each home visit, Santa and the elves bring food, toys and gifts, with each package customized based upon the needs of the individual or family. They hope to reach those who, for one reason or another, are not able to provide Christmas gifts and food for their families, especially the little ones. They also hope to reach anyone who needs a little extra joy this time of year.

Santa’s Angels is a registered charity that is operated completely by volunteers, including their core organizing committee.

All proceeds from the Santa’s Angels Soiree will go toward helping children and families in need this Christmas across PEI.

Doors open and reception begins at 6:30 pm with showtime at 7:30 pm. theguildpei.com

Tibb’s Eve with Swift Kick

PEI Brewing Company—Dec 23

SOPA showcases

Music students to present three show in December

Tibb’s Eve. Tipp’s Eve. Tip’s Eve. Even Tipsy Eve. Celebrate the start of the 2022 holiday season with Taylor Swift Tribute band, Swift Kick, on December 23 at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown.

Doors open at 8 pm. Showtime is 9 pm. Presented by Whitecap Entertainment. This is a 19+ event. peibrewingcompany.com

Students in the Music Performance program of Holland College’s School of Performing Arts are preparing for a series of three showcases taking place in December.

During their two years in the program, students participate in several ensembles, each of which focuses on a different genre of music. The showcases are an opportunity to perform pieces they have been rehearsing throughout the semester. In past years, all the ensemble students would perform in one concert, this year, there will be three separate concerts.

The first showcase, a Celtic and Acadian concert, will take place at Florence Simmons Performance Hall on December 9 at 7 pm and will feature students from the Celtic and Acadian Music ensembles. The second showcase, a Rock and Country concert, will be held at Trailside Music Hall on December 13 at 8 pm and feature students from the Rock and Country ensembles. The third concert will take

Capital New Year

Founders’ Food Hall & Market

All are invited to attend the the City of Charlottetown’s Capital New Year celebrations on December 31 from 11 am–8 pm at Founders’ Food Hall & Market in Charlottetown.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with free, family-friendly activities, including live music, mascot appearances, a photo booth, an art activity, giveaways, fireworks, and entertainment by Taylor Swift Tribute Band, Swift Kick.

A schedule of events will be available at charlottetown.ca/nye.

place at Baba’s Lounge on December 15 at 8 pm and feature the Improv ensembles.

Program Manager Liam Corcoran said the change in format from one showcase to three smaller concerts was recommended by the program’s advisory committee. The new format is intended to give the students experience performing in a variety of different venues.

“For the past couple of years, the showcases were postponed or cancelled due to the pandemic. We thought this would be a good opportunity to try showcasing our students in a variety of different ways, and to increase our engagement with local venues and audiences,” he said.

Admission to the Celtic and Acadian concert is by donation at the door. For tickets to the Rock and Country concert, visit trailside.ca or call 367-3311. There is no set charge for the Improv concert, admission is by donation at the door.

news MUSIC

Battle of the Bands

The first in a series of Battle of the Bands events will be held Dec 2 from 6–9 pm at Howie’s Loft, 56 St Peters Rd, Charlottetown. Sign up for future events by emailing one recorded track to audiomancerproduction@gmail.com.

Music PEI Week 2023

Music PEI Week will be held March 8–12, 2023. Featuring a week of live performances celebrating the 2023 nominees of the Music PEI Awards for artists, industry professionals, and the community of music lovers. Nominees will be announced in January. Awards will be handed out at the Music PEI Awards Party on March 12. musicpei.com

(l-r): Students Zeynep Sema Celebi, David Wallace, Patrick Stephen, Devon McGrath, and Allegra Wright rehearse for their Rock and Country concert at the Trailside Music Hall.

(l-r): Swift Kick (Brady, Jordan, Chris, Laura, Craig, and Donovan)

MUSIC LIVE

Baba’s Lounge

Open Mic w/KINLEY on Wednesdays at 9 pm. Island Jazz on Thursdays at 8 pm. Live music at 10:30 pm: Reade Gavin (Dec 1); The Flakes (2); George Jonesin’/Billiy Boka/DMayne Event (3); Strokes Tribute Night (8); Liz Leo (9); Grace of Bass (10); Blake Crocket (15); Willow/Fundance (16); Busted Skulls/ Big Huge & guests (17); Gizmo & guests (22); Mindwaves Reunion (23); DMayne Event/ThatMattyMofo/Grace of Bass (29); Out From Under (30); NYE with Dekz & guests (31). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Bogside Brewing

Blizzard Goat on Saturdays at 3 pm. Live music on Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 pm (unless noted): Keira Loane(Dec 2); Brian Dunn (3); Taylor Johnson (9); Dan Doiron (10); Stephen Szwarc (16); Billy White(17); Carter MacLellan (23); Adam McGregor(30); Broad Cove Boys, (31 @9 pm–midnight). 11 Brook St, Montague.

Breakwater at Silver Fox

Live music on Fridays and Saturdays at 9:30 pm: Mitch O’Blenis (Dec 2); Aaron & Chris (3); Dave Doyle (9); Roland Beaulieu (10); Bayview Crossing (16); Trevor Cameron (17); Floyd Gaudet (23); NYE at the Fox with The Dave Doyle Band (31, ticketed). 110 Water St, Summerside.

Brothers 2

Live music on Thursdays and Fridays at 7 pm: Lawrence Maxwell (Dec 1); Nick Hann (2); Dave Woodside (8); Acoustic Bros (9); Lawrence Maxwell (15); Chris & Eric (16); D’Arcy & Moe (22); Marc& Steve (23); Karen & Mike (30). 618 Water St, Summerside.

Charlottetown Legion

Live music every Saturday night from 9 pm–1 am at the Charlottetown Legion.

The lineup is: Wannabees (Dec 3);

Kim Albert (10); Spuds (17); Rustlers (31). All are welcome. 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.

Craft Beer Corner

Live music on Wednesdays at 9 pm and Live DJ on Saturdays at 9 pm. 156 Great George St, Charlottetown.

The Factory

DJ Method on Thursdays. Two DJs and two dance floors on Fridays and Saturdays. Kent St, Charlottetown.

Gahan House

Acoustic music on Wednesdays at 9 pm: Dave Woodside (Dec 1/15/22); Adam MacGregor(7); Lawrence Maxwell(8/14); Stephen Szwarc (21/29); Ashley Gorman(28). 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Hunter’s Ale House

Hired Gunz/Soul Filter (Dec 2); Matt & Griff (5/12); Lieutenant Dan (6/13/27); Main Street Bullies (9); Hired Gunz/ Down with Darby (10); Ugly Sweater Party (14); No Doubt—Alanis Morissette tribute (15); Copycat (17); Yak Bak (18); Logan’s Xmas Party (19); Not-SoSaturday Night Hoedown (20); Brad’s All Request Covers (21); RHCP tribute (22); Blink 182 tribute (23); Love Junkies (26). Corner of Kent & Prince Sts, Charlottetown.

John Brown Grille

Friday Night Dance Party at 10 pm. Live music on Saturdays at 2 pm. 132 Richmond St, Charlottetown.

The Local

Taylor Buote and Dennis Dunn (Dec 2); Holy Hanna(3); Dec 9 Saul good duo(9); Lawrence Maxwell and Isaac King(16); Adam MacGregor and Liam Kearney (17); Dec 23 Gypsy Soul Duo

(23); Holy Hanna(30). 202 Buchanan Dr, Charlottetown

Lone Oak Brewing Co

Live Music on Thursdays and Saturdays at 6 pm, Sundays at 1 pm: Fraser McCallum (Dec 1); Dave Woodside & Matt Hannah (3); Brian Dunn (4); Ashley Gorman (8); Mike & Karen Penton (10); Nathan Carragher (11); Mike & Albert (15); Chris & Eric (17); Dave Woodside (18). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.

The Lucky Bean—Stratford

Open Mic w/Robert McMillan every Sunday at 2 pm. 17 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford.

The Old Triangle

Live music on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm (artists TBA). 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Olde Dublin Pub

Live music at 10 pm (unless noted): Gypsy Soul Band(Dec 2); Main Street Bullies (3); Hired Guns(9); MacBeth(10); Wannabeez(16); Vintage 4.0 (17); Adam MacGregor and The Foes (23); Dave Woodside and guests (26 @4–7 pm); Wannabeez (26); Breakwater (27 @7–10 pm); Vintage 2.0 (28 @7–10 pm); Saul Good band 10-2(30); Main Street Bullies 10-2(31). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

PEI Brewing Company

Acoustic Fridays in the Taproom from 5–8 pm: Lawrence Maxwell (Dec 2); Shane Pendergast (9). Tibbs Eve with Swift Kick (23 @8 pm, ticketed). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.

Piatto Pizzeria + Enoteca

Fridays at 6 pm (except Dec 2): Mike Stratton(Dec 9); Rodney Perry (16); TBA (23/30). 45 Queen St, Charlottetown.

RCAF Wing Summerside

Occasional live music. Check website at wingpei.com for updates. 329 North Market St, Summerside.

Stay tuned to our website calendar at buzzpei.com for new shows and updates throughout the month!

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ISSUE# 348 • DECEMBER 2022

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Editor: Michelle Ollerhead

Partners: Maggie Lillo (Ruby Square Graphic Design), Carly Martin (Hawthorne House Media)

Contributors: Lori-Ann Lingley, Sean McQuaid, Takako Morita, Tara Reeves, JoDee Samuelson, Gary Schneider

Office: 160 Richmond Street, Charlottetown

Mail: P.O. Box 1945, Charlottetown, PE

C1A7N5

Phone: 902-628-1958

E-mail: info@buzzpei.com

Social Media: @buzzpei

The Buzz is published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc.

Cover: A Pair of Pears, line and wash watercolour study by Lori-Ann Lingley, inspired by a class by Tony Burt.

PEI artist Lori-Ann Lingley started painting and rug hooking in 2018 after retiring from teaching.

Through drawing and painting courses at her local seniors college, she found the knowledge acquired about colour, values and lines aligned perfectly with the work she was doing with rug hooking.

Lori-Ann does plein air painting with a small group of artists, designs patterns for rug hooking and creates daily with paint and wool.

More of her work can be seen on Instagram @la_art_pei.

PARTICIPATING SHOPS INCLUDE:

RETAIL

S erving up delicious local hot chocolate while you shop!

DEEP ROOTS DISTILLERY

KNIT PICKERS BY MARGARET

MCEACHERN

PEI PRESERVE COMPANY

PEI FOX DEN

STAR & STABLE CHRISTMAS STORE

QUILTING B & MORE

RED SANDS REIKI

EVERY WEEKEND FROM NOVEMBER 12THDECEMBER 18TH!

FOOD & DRINK

The ultimate hot chocolate drinks

AT YOUR SERVICE CREATIONS BAR1911

ISLAND CHOCOLATES

JANE & SUE CHOCOLATES

THE GALLERY

C&B CORNER CAFE

FAMILY FUN

Enjoy hot chocolate while adventuring with family and friends

ALEXANDER & DARLENE’S FARM HAVEN

ISLAND HILL FARM

WATERMARK THEATRE