December 2023
Stephen B. MacInnis AN INITATIVE OF DISCOVER CHARLOTTETOWN
AN INITATIVE OF DISCOVER CHARLOTTETOWN PRESENTED BY THE CHARLOTTETOWN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
BOUTIQUE OPEN-AIR MARKET NOW UNTIL JAN 2 Holiday Accommodation Rates • Christmas Craft Fairs & Mini Markets • Live Music • WhovilleInspired Christmas Town • Horse & Wagon Rides • Breakfasts with Santa • AND MORE! charlottetownchristmasfestival.com
Confederation Centre Plaza
NOW UNTIL DEC 24
Fridays: 4PM - 8PM Saturdays: 10AM - 6PM Sundays: 12PM - 5PM www.discovercharlottetown.com/mistletoe-market
Page A2 The BUZZ December 2023
Hosted by:
in Veteran’s Memorial Square Park
December 16
December 9
December 2
Schedule 2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Tinsel Tug of War
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Kids Craft
3:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Christmas Story Book Reading
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Crazy Candy Cane Hang
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Santa’s Workshop Toy Building
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
DIY Christmas Card Making
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Christmas Choirs
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Horse & Wagon Rides
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Visit with Santa! Hot Chocolate & S’mores
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
The Present Stacker
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
Santa Sack Races
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Cookie Decorating
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Winter Crafter’s Market
3:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Most Festive Fashion Show
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Horse & Wagon Rides
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Wreath or No Wreath
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Christmas Movie
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Santa’s Workshop Toy Building
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Santa Training
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Visit with Santa! Hot Chocolate & S’mores
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Elf My Shelf!
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Candy Cane Bingo
4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Christmas Improv
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Horse & Wagon Rides
5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Christmas Charades
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Santa’s Workshop Toy Building
6:00 pm
Reindeer Games FINALE
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Visit with Santa! Hot Chocolate & S’mores
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A3
Page A4 The BUZZ December 2023
Profile: Stephanie Arnold by Julie Bull
nationally. They are the past president of BIPOC USHR, a trustee with Public Schools Branch, and a member of the Rustico Ringette Association, to name a few. Stephanie is also a director with Coastal Zone Canada (CZC), and they’re excited to be co-planning CZC’s conference coming to PEI in 2025.
Making connections
With their years of experience serving on community-based boards, Stephanie is feeling hopeful with the increase in younger people getting involved. “Now I see my role as one to support the leadership capacity and connections for younger people.”
BUZZ
Looking back to their own younger days, they remember feeling disenchanted with the degree they were pursuing because of its lack of interdisciplinary focus. Stephanie completed their chemical engineering degree, but they knew they didn’t want to be a practicing engineer. “I learned so much about so little and I knew, for me, I needed to learn a little about a lot of things to find those connections.” Stephanie went on to earn a Master of Business Administration at the University of Toronto and worked in the corporate world before switching gears into entrepreneurship.
When we met to chat, Stephanie Arnold had just returned from a decolonizing conference in Toronto where they had the opportunity to learn from scholars across many disciplines. “It was commonplace for the researchers and scientists to discuss their positionality in the arts and humanities and I appreciated seeing how liberation is implicit in most of the work of BIPOC [Black, Indigenous, and People of Color] scholars.” Stephanie commits themselves to the liberation journey, whether in their day job, their volunteer roles, or within their friend and family networks. They operate at the systems level and are enthusiastic about making change. “Building positive solutions and systems change is fun!” We chuckled during the conversation, knowing that Stephanie’s definition of fun wouldn’t be relatable for some folks. They explained that their interest in and dedication to systemic change comes from their entire life experiences to date. “Hong Kong was under British
rule and then I came to Canada, also a British colony, so my entire life has been an exercise in understanding colonization.” Stephanie grew up in Hong Kong until they were 10 years old and then their family moved to Toronto. “Growing up in big cities, it was hard to really see and feel the connection to the land.” Now living in rural PEI, Stephanie has a greater awareness and appreciation of the land and they have even tried their hand at gardening. “I am a novice gardener, and I grew the world’s most expensive kale!” they said with laughter. Along with literally getting their hands dirty in the soil, Stephanie is not afraid to metaphorically get their hands dirty in a variety of research, policy, and advocacy roles. “I have come to see and understand some of my own privilege and the responsibilities that come along with that.” Stephanie is actively in service within the communities they are a part of, locally, provincially, and
They moved to PEI with their entrepreneurial partner to work in the tourism industry. Eventually they wanted to pursue additional work avenues, so they applied for a job with CLIMAtlantic. “I interviewed for the job, and I didn’t get it. But a few weeks later, they reached out to hire me for a short contract to write a grant proposal. When they were successful in the grant and received the funds, I was hired to carry out some of the work.” Now the Strategy and Programs Manager, Prince Edward Island Specialist with CLIMAtlantic, Stephanie brings their vast skillset and interests together in a variety of social and scientific ways. “I basically fell into PEI and fell into climate work, and I know that what I’m doing is the work I’m supposed to be doing because it feeds my soul.” With their multi-disciplinary background, Stephanie is also a PhD candidate in Environmental Science and conducts research with UPEI’s School of Climate Change and Adaptation. “I am thirsty for connection and all of my past learnings are indispensable to the now.” Clearly a life-long learner and integrator, Stephanie doesn’t let confusions or complexities deter them. “I ask myself: What else can I learn to make it make sense?” In their efforts toward liberation, Stephanie is committed to disrupting dominate discourse. “I’m interested in learning how can we disrupt the way we do things, moving away from competitive structures into more collaborative ones.”
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A5
Festive Wreaths
Eptek Art & Culture Centre
Aqua exhibitions
Annual exhibition by Friends of Confederation Centre on display
SUBMITTED
Two new exhibitions were installed in late November at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside. Aquaculture: Farming the Waters and the Summerside Art Club exhibition AquaVision will be on view until February 16. The public is invited to the official launch on December 5 from 6–7:30 pm. There will be a free seafood appetizer and non-alcoholic beer. Aquaculture: Farming the Waters is on display in the main gallery. Developed in collaboration with the Canada Science and Technology Museum, the engaging exhibition invites visitors on a journey to explore Canadian aquaculture, giving them a glimpse of how farmers in PEI and across the country cultivate fish, shellfish, and seaweed species. Through displays and interactive elements, this exhibition offers a family-friendly experience for participants of all ages. The Summerside Art Club’s exhibition, AquaVision, will be on display in the adjacent gallery space. The Island is surrounded and crossed by water; it often defines the soul and sights that inspire artists. For this exhibition, the Club’s members created works that represent how they see the world through the lens of water: water
BUZZ
Official launch for two new shows—Dec 5
Artwork from the AquaVision exhibition
creatures, reflections, landscapes with water as a major feature, and more. The works include oil, watercolour, acrylic, pastels, sculpture, mixed media, fabric arts and more. Follow @heritagepei for updates.
Dear Buzz readers, The January issue of The Buzz will be on the street January 2 It will be available for early reading on Dec 29 at buzzpei.com and issuu.com/buzzpei.
The annual Festive Wreath exhibition at Confederation Centre of the Arts is now on view in the concourse at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. The public is invited to enjoy the colour and creativity of the festive wreaths, traditional and non-traditional, created by youth, adults, and groups. A project of the Friends of Confederation Centre, the Festive Wreath exhibition is on view until December 16.
Page A6 The BUZZ December 2023
Breadalbane Gallery
ARTS
New exhibition opening and art talk—Dec 8
OPEN YEAR ROUND 7 MINUTES FROM THE CONFEDERATION BRIDGE
PEI artist-run centre, this town is small, was awarded one of the runners-up for the National Gallery of Canada’s Lacey Prize. The Prize celebrates the activities and impact of small organizations and artist-run spaces in Canada and the important work they do in supporting visual art in this country—in particular their contributions to emerging and experimental practices, and the role they play within their local communities. Established in 2019, the Lacey Prize awards a cash prize of $50,000 to a firstplace winner, and cash prizes of $20,000 to two runners-up.
Holiday Card Contest SUBMITTED
THE HANDPIE COMPANY 1788 PE-115 ALBANY, PE WWW.HANDPIE.CA
The Breadalbane Gallery December show opening on December 8 from 6–8 pm will feature an artist talk with one of the exhibiting artists, Will Baker. Baker is a PEI-based artist who works in various media including photography, drawing and sculpture. Play and experimentation are central to his art. He holds a BFA from Memorial University’s Grenfell campus in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, and his work is multi-medium, often combining photographs with other mediums. The Breadalbane Gallery opens a new show on the second Friday of each month with a reception for the public that evening. Starting this month, each show opening will feature an Art Talk with one of the Gallery’s artists discussing their work. The Breadalbane Gallery is a casual community space that hosts PEI artists. Gallery artists include Patricia Lush, Joan Sutton, Vian Emery, Zoe Novaczek, Denise Livingston, Will Baker, Haley Lewis, Marianne Janowicz, Adrianna Chandler, Erin Veitch, Silver Frith, and Laura Bain. The Gallery is open during library hours: Tuesday (11 am–3 pm); Wednesday (9 am–1 pm); Thursday
The Lacey Prize runner-up
Jen at the edge of the world, silver gelatin print by Will Baker
(4–8 pm); and by appointment via phone at 303-8333, email to mjanowicz@hotmail.com, or online at breadalbanegallery.com. The Gallery is located at the Breadalbane Community Centre, 4023 Dixon Road.
All CARFAC Maritimes members are invited to submit one of their works to the annual virtual CARFAC Maritimes Holiday Card Contest for a chance to win a $200 reproduction fee and to be a featured artist in their newsletter and on their website. To learn more about the holiday card contest or to become a member, visit carfacmaritimes.org or email anna.rail@carfacmaritimes.org.
Artists Resale Rights survey
CARFAC National, along with its affiliate CARFAC Maritimes, protects the rights of Canada’s visual artists through various campaigns. A long-standing project is to have Artist Resale Rights (ARR) passed into law in Canada. Ninety other countries protect artists and their estates with such a law, which means that a small royalty is paid to the artist or their estate, each time their art resells. The Federal Government is currently in its final stages of consulting with stakeholders, such as auction houses, gallerists and artists, and will accept input via a survey at bit.ly/3ujfJCe until December 15. To learn more about ARR or to become a member of this professional artist organization, visit carfacmaritimes.org or email anna.rail@ carfacmaritimes.org.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A7
Fix Your Plate by Tara Reeves
Festive food swaps
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A FESTIVAL FEATURING THE ACADIAN MEAT PIE!
‘Tis the season of celebration, and as we gather to indulge in the joyous moments, there’s no denying the allure of festive treats. However, the indulgence often comes with a lingering concern for our well-being. But, with a few savvy swaps, you can partake in the spirit of the season without fretting over the impact on your health. Consider a timeless baking swap: instead of loading up your cookies and cakes with butter, opt for the sweetness of unsweetened applesauce. This switch not only infuses natural sweetness but also maintains the moist and delectable quality of your baked goods. Just note that this swap is not suitable where cold butter is required in a recipe. Sugar cookies may be a holiday favourite, but the subsequent sugar crash is less enjoyable. Choose natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or dates for your recipes. These alternatives not only add sweetness but also bring along additional nutrients. It’s a delightful compromise that satiates your taste buds while aligning with your commitment to well-being. Swap out traditional mashed potatoes for a lighter alternative using mashed cauliflower. Steam or boil cauliflower until tender, then blend or mash it with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and your favourite herbs. The result is a creamy and flavorful side dish with fewer carbs and calories, making room for guilt-free seconds. For appetizers, consider a swap that transforms creamy dips made with sour cream or mayonnaise into a protein-packed delight using Greek yogurt. The result is an equally creamy and indulgent dip, adorned with herbs and spices. Enjoy guilt-free dipping
without the lingering heaviness. Eggnog, a seasonal favourite, often comes with an abundance of sugar and calories. Take matters into your own hands by crafting a homemade almond milk eggnog. Not only does this version carry fewer calories, but it also allows you to control the sweetness. Top it off with a sprinkle of nutmeg for a healthier, homemade rendition of this festive classic. When the snacking urge hits, make a smarter choice by trading greasy potato chips for baked veggie chips. Slice up sweet potatoes, beets, or zucchini, drizzle with olive oil, and bake to crispy perfection. You’ll satisfy your crunchy craving without the guilt of excess fat and calories. Indulge your sweet tooth with a healthier choice by opting for dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Dark chocolate contains less sugar and more cocoa, which is rich in antioxidants. It’s a decadent treat that satisfies your chocolate cravings while providing potential health benefits. Enjoy it on its own or incorporate it into your favourite holiday desserts for a delicious and mindful upgrade. Remember, the season is about celebrating, not deprivation. These straightforward swaps allow you to relish the festivities without compromising your dedication to a healthier lifestyle. So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or contributing a dish, consider these swaps as your secret ingredients for guilt-free enjoyment this holiday season. Just a friendly reminder that if you plan to partake in some festive libations this holiday season, please don’t drink and drive. Happy Holidays!
Regional competitions and the big finale in Rustico!
Friday, December 1 DeBlois
Sunday, December 10 Summerside
Sunday, December 3 Rollo Bay
Saturday, December 16 Finale in Rustico
Friday, December 8 Charlottetown
REGISTRATION & INFORMATION: WWW.FARMERSBANK.CA
Page A8 The BUZZ December 2023
ART ACTIVITIES
of inclement weather, the events will be moved to December 16. 950 Callbeck St Unit 113, Central Bedeque.
Life drawing sessions
Visit the Summerside Rotary Libary for a crafting and social hour and create personalized holiday cards and tags using the library’s cricut machine. Preregister for this program at 436-7323. Sessions take place December 11 at 6 pm and December 13 at 2 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Life Drawing sessions are held on Sundays, December 3, 10 and 17, at the Gertrude Cotton Art Centre from 2–4 pm, unless otherwise posted by 12 noon @ Life Drawing PEI on FB. 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. Arrive early for set up; doors open at 1:30 pm. They are always looking for models; email lifedrawingpei2022@ gmail.com if interested. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford.
Fibre Arts Club
Drop in to the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre for Fibre Arts Club on Tuesdays in December. Drop in anytime between 1–3 pm. Bring supplies or a current project and join other knitters, crocheters, rug hookers and fibre and textile makers for some crafting and social time. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown
Art Studio Days
Free, drop-in Art Studio Days will be held every Tuesday in December from 4–7 pm at Blank Canvas Art Supplies. This is a weekly, self guided event for ages 16+. Bring a current work in progress, start from scratch, try something new or just hang out and meet others in the classroom space. Some general supplies are available. Visit blankcanvasartsupplies.ca for more info, including in-store workshops, classes and events for all ages. 10 Prince St, Charlottetown.
Creative PEI Art Night
Drop in at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre on Wednesdays from 5–8 pm for Creative PEI Art Night. Make art and chit chat from 5–7 pm; supplies provided or bring a current project. There will be a featured presentation each week at 7 pm consisting of speakers, panels, group activities, and more. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Seniors Art Activities
Confederation Centre Art Gallery offers Seniors Art Activities from 10 am–12 noon on the first Thursday of the month (December 7). Participants are introduced to current exhibitions in the Gallery followed by an art-making activity in the Schurman Family Studio. Tea, coffee, and snacks are provided. To register, visit confederationcentre.com or call the Centre’s box office at 1-800-565-0278.
Lantern making workshops
The fourth edition of the River Clyde Solstice Walk in New Glasgow returns December 21 from 6–8 pm. The admission-by-donation community event will feature a procession of illuminated lanterns, outdoor performances, food and bonfires to light up the darkest day of the year. Advance registration is required. A series of free public workshops for all ages will be offered leading up to the Solstice Walk. Laura Stinson will lead workshops on lantern creation using dogwood and willow on December 7 and 14 (venues to be confirmed). Lokki Ma will lead two lantern workshops for younger children at The Mill in New Glasgow on December 9 and at the Summerside Rotary Library on December 16. Space is limited. Visit riverclydepageant.com/solstice-walk to reserve for workshops and to register for the Solstice Walk.
Edwardian Christmas craft workshop
The Bedeque Area Historical Museum will be hosting the Edwardian Christmas craft workshop on December 9 from 10 am–4 pm. Conducted by a guide in historical costume, this workshop is free and open to all ages. Crafts will include homemade Christmas crackers and turn-of-the-century holiday postcards. Additionally, there will be carolling and a Christmas Card exhibit. This is a drop-in event and visitors can come at any time. Later that day, at 7 pm, the museum will also host a free Edwardian Christmas History Talk. All are welcome. In the case
Holiday Cards and Tags
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 January 13 and run for a 10-week period. 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 9–11 am and, depending on demand, from 11:30 am–1:30 pm. Registration is online and will be open on December 12 from 7–8 pm. 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 classes, as well as the link to the online registration form, will be posted at peipottersstudio. com. Email registration@peipottersstudio.com with any questions.
Crafternoon
Crafternoon Wednesday takes place on December 13 at 1 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. This month’s activity is wine glass
etching. All supplies are provided. Pre-register in advance via phone at 368-4642 or in person at 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Nifty Knitters & Needlecraft
Join knitters, crocheters, rug hookers and other fibre and textile makers at the Summerside Rotary Library for some crafting and social time. All skill levels are welcome; bring needlecraft paraphernalia. Sessions take place this month on December 14 and 28 at 1:30 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Christmas centrepiece
Sign up for the Christmas centrepiece workshop with Marie on December 17 from 2–4 pm at the Stratford Town Hall. All supplies required to make a centrepiece for the holiday season are included with the registration fee. Preregistration and payment are required at 569-6250 or townofstratford.ca. 234 Shakespeare Dr, Stratford.
Exploring Visual Arts
Registration is now open for the winter session of Exploring Visual Arts at Confederation Centre of the Arts. New classes will begin January 13 and continue on Saturdays to March 2. Students will explore the elements of art through a series of diverse drawing, painting, and sculpting activities. Sessions will also include Gallery visits where students will explore a range of contemporary and historical artworks. Sessions are available for students ages 6–12. Info: confederationcentre.com; 628-6134; artseducation@ confederationcentre.com
PEI Modern Quilt Guild
The PEI Modern Quilt Guild meets on the fourth Thursday of each month from 7–9 pm. Follow @peimqg on IG for updates. If interested in attending a meeting as a guest or for any other inquires, contact peimqg@gmail.com.
Cricut Tech Help
Get help with a cricut project at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. See a staff member to book an appointment (times vary). Bring project supplies and learn how to get started. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A9
4th annual Solstice Walk
ROBERT VAN WAARDEN
Workshops and programming announced
2022 River Clyde Solstice Walk
The fourth edition of the River Clyde Solstice Walk in New Glasgow returns on December 21 from 6–8 pm. The community event will feature 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 end up at The Mill in New Glasgow where they’ll enjoy some music, snacks and bonfires. Advance registration is required at
145 Richmond Street, Charlottetown, P.E.I.
riverclydepageant.com/solstice-walk. Admission is by donation. For attendees who do not wish to participate in the outdoor walk, an indoor Solstice experience will be offered in the sunroom of The Mill, with views of the lantern procession, live music, and a crafting activity. A series of free public workshops for all ages will be offered leading up to the Solstice Walk. Solstice Walk lantern designer Laura Stinson will lead workshops on lantern creation using dogwood and willow on December 7 and 14 (venues to be confirmed). Artist and designer Lokki Ma will lead two lantern workshops for younger children at The Mill on December 9 and at the Summerside Rotary Library on December 16. Food workshops return, offering participants a chance to explore diverse cultures through cooking and sharing food. A new cooking workshop led by Jamaican foodie Dershell Walker takes place on December 2 from 11 am–1 pm at The Mill. Iranian-born artist Monelli Rahmatian returns to lead a Persian cooking workshop on December 17 from 10 am–1 pm at The Mill. Monelli will also lead a dance workshop for Shabe Yalda, the Persian celebration of the Solstice, in Charlottetown on December 8. Workshop spots are limited. Register online at riverclydepageant. com/solstice-walk to reserve.
EXPLORE THE GALLERY
FALL EXHIBITIONS CONTINUE Destruction Recrafted:
Hurricane Fiona Up Close and Personal UNTIL JANUARY 7, 2024
the currents that carry us
SENIORS ART
Making History
An introduction to our current exhibitions followed by an art-making activity.
AC T I V I T I E S
UNTIL JANUARY 7, 2024
UNTIL JANUARY 21, 2024
December 7, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Schurman Family Studio | $10/Person
Daphne Irving:
A Painter’s Journey UNTIL JANUARY 28, 2024
Common Collective: 40-Tonne Viewfinder UNTIL FEBRUARY 24, 2024
For Gallery holiday hours please visit our website.
confederationcentre.com/artgallery
FAMILY SUNDAYS
ART ACTIVITIES Daphne Irving, Incorporeal Landscape, c.1976, oil on canvas, 117.0 x 101.0 cm Purchase, 1976, Collection of Confederation Centre Art Gallery, CAG 76.18
Returning to the Gallery January 28 NEW FALL/WINTER HOURS: Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. • Monday closed
EXHIBITS galleries, museums…
Acadian Museum of PEI
Ten Million Steps / Dix millions de pas is on view to March 2024. Visit the permanent exhibit and video The Island Acadians: The Story of a People. Acadian genealogy resources are available to researchers. A new artifacts exhibit area opened this year. The museum will be closed for the holidays from December until January 9. 23 Main Dr. E, Miscouche.
Breadalbane Gallery
Confederation Centre Art Gallery
On view: Destruction Recrafted: Hurricane Fiona Up Close and Personal to January 7; the currents that carry us to January 7; Making History to January 21; Daphne Irving: A Painter’s Journey to January 28; and Common Collective: 40–Tonne Viewfinder to February 24. Guided tours are available. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown.
This month’s opening reception on December 8 from 6–8 pm will feature an artist talk with one of the exhibiting artists, Will Baker. Works by local artists Zoe Novaczek, Denise Livingston, Haley Lewis, Marianne Janowicz, Adrianna Chandler, Erin Veitch, Silver Frith, and Laura Bain will also be on view. Artists wishing to exhibit can submit photos of their work to breadalbanegallery.com. 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.
Cornwall Library Art Gallery
Charlottetown Library Learning Centre
Eptek Art & Culture Centre
Presented by this town is small, Canvas & Cosmos: A fusion of Science and Art by Chester Hewlett is on view in the TD Art Corridor until February 16. Dominion Building, 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
The annual December Youth Art Show will officially open December 5 with a reception at 7 pm. A new solo exhibition by Barry Bain will run from January 2–February 9. Meet Bain at the opening reception on January 2 at 7 pm. Contact the library via phone at 629-8415 for info on displaying work in the gallery. 15 Mercedes Dr, Town Hall, Cornwall.
Aquaculture: Farming the Waters and the Summerside Art Club exhibition AquaVision are on view until February 16. All are invited to the public launch on December 5 from 6–7:30 pm. Visit the permanent exhibition on the history and architecture of Summerside. Eptek is one of seven PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation sites. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
Kings Playhouse Art Gallery
Works by photographer Patricia Bourque and artist Renée Laprise are on view until December 17. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown.
Lefurgey Cultural Centre
The Magic of Christmas: Christmas Trees Through The Ages Exhibit presented by Culture Summerside and Wyatt Heritage Properties Inc will be on view December 4–22 and January 8–12. The exhibit is open Monday–Friday from 9 am–5 pm, and December 9 and 16, from 3–8 pm. 205 Prince St, Summerside.
Burger Love returns Now as a charitable fundraiser for Anderson House After announcing in February that PEI Burger Love had been put on hiatus, Fresh Media—the company behind PEI Burger Love, and the creative team that launched and managed the campaign over the past 12 years—has announced that the event will return in April 2024 as an exclusive fundraising event for Anderson House. PEI Burger Love will stay a month-long celebration of local Danya O’Malley, PEIVPS (left) and Melody Dover, burgers with Anderson House Fresh Media now taking the lead, presenting the April 2024 event as a children from all areas of PEI who are charitable fundraiser that will help to in need of safety because of violence in support their many community efforts their lives. They have been the recipiacross the Island. Restaurants will not ent of the Give Back Burger initiative be required to pay registration fees to through PEI Burger Love since 2019. participate this upcoming year, but “Give Back Burgers have helped participating restaurants will need to our organization offer new and innovadonate $1 for each of their burgers sold tive programming. These funds make a to Anderson House as their commitreal difference,” says Danya O’Malley, ment with PEI Burger Love. Executive Director PEI Family Violence Anderson House is a provincial Prevention Services who operates emergency shelter offering emergency Anderson House. supports and services for women, trans For updates follow @peiburgerlove and non-binary individuals and their on Facebook.
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Page A10 The BUZZ December 2023
Meat Pie Fest Features six regional competitions across the Island Meat Pie Festival du pâté, presented by Farmers’ Bank of Rustico and Doucet House Museums, features six regional competitions across PEI between November 26 and December 16. The first two competitions were held on November 26 in Rustico and Évangéline. The remaining regional events will take place on December 1
in DeBlois, December 3 in Rollo Bay, December 8 in Charlottetown, and December 10 in Summerside. Divided into Traditional Acadian Meat Pie and Non-Traditional Meat Pie categories, the competition celebrates the classic Acadian delicacy enjoyed for centuries. The Non-Traditional Meat Pie allows participants to showcase their culinary innovation. First-place winners in both categories will vie for supremacy at the grand finale in Rustico on December 16. To register, review the contest rules and regulations, and for more information, visit farmersbank.ca.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A11
MARKETS & FAIRS Mistletoe Market
Presented by the Charlottetown Christmas Festival, the boutique open-air Mistletoe Market continues on weekends until December 24 on the plaza at Confederation Centre of the Arts. The Market features eight whimsical huts, each transformed into little stores where a selection of local artisans showcase their crafted goods. Open Fridays from 4–8 pm, Saturdays from 10 am–6 pm, and Sundays from 12 noon–5 pm. This is an initiative of Discover Charlottetown.
Holiday Craft Fair
A Holiday Craft Fair will be held in Montague at the Cavendish Farms Wellness Centre (21 Sullivan Lane) on December 1 from 3–7 pm and December 2 from 12–4 pm. The fair will feature about 40 vendors, games, treats, a 50/50 draw, raffle, and more. Admission is free.
Christmas in the Country Craft Sale
The Christmas in the Country Craft Sale will be held at the Afton Community Hall on December 2 from 9 am–3 pm. There will be handcrafted items, homemade desserts and food items, handmade live wreaths, and much more. Admission is free or by donation to the West River Community Fridge. Contact Tracey MacEwen 675-2879 for more info. 1552 Rte 19, New Dominion.
Marché d’hiver
Marché d’hiver will be held on December 2 from 10 am–2 pm at the Centre acadien Grand-Rustico. There will be local artisans and crafters, a bistro canteen, children’s concert with Art Richard, and raffle tickets for a chance to win Christmas baskets. Admission is free, but visitors are encouraged to bring donations for the food bank. For more info, call 963-3252, email info@conseilacadienrustico.org or follow on FB. 2244 Church Rd, Route 243, Rustico.
Stanley Bridge Craft Fair
The Sterling Women’s Institute members, Stanley Bridge, are holding their annual Christmas Craft Fair at the community hall on December 2 from 10 am–4 pm. Shoppers can enjoy two floors of local artisans. Admission is by donation, with monies raised going to Blooming House, and to the Canadian Mental Health Association’s White Cross Gift campaign. Everyone welcome. 4897 St. Mary’s Rd, Stanley Bridge.
CWL Christmas Bazaar
Our Lady of the Assumption’s Annual CWL Christmas Bazaar will be held from 10:30 am–12:30 pm on December 2 at the Assumption Parish Centre. The Bazaar will feature home baked goods, jams, jellies, fudge, crafts, holly, gift basket draws, silent auctions, and
gently-used books, puzzles, jewelry, and scarves. Admission is free. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bag. 145 Stratford Rd, Stratford.
PEI Witch Market: Make the Yuletide Gay edition
PEI Witch Market: Make the Yuletide Gay will run from 12 noon–5 pm on December 2 at The Guild. PEI’s first queer Christmas market will feature over 15 vendors from across the Island. Vendors are 2SLGBTQIA+ or allies and will be showcasing self care products, crochet, art, candles, woodcraft, beadwork, and more. There will also be tarot and palm readers on site. Admission is at the door. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Fortune Festive Fair
The fifth annual Fortune Festive Fair will run from 10 am–4 pm on December 2 and 3 at the Fortune Community Centre. The Fair will feature over 40 tables with lots of vendors offering great holiday items. Admission at the door. 220 Fortune Wharf Rd North, Fortune Bridge.
Holiday Maker Market PEI
The ninth annual Holiday Maker Market, featuring 100 artists, makers and food vendors from Atlantic Canada, will take place December 2 and 3 from 10 am–5 pm at UPEI’s Chi-Wan Young Sports Centre. Admission is at the door (free for ages 10 and under) and covers entry for both days with proceeds going toward the Maker Grant program. Follow on FB for details and updates. 550 University Ave, Charlottetown.
The Village Square
Gather in the Village Square at The Mill in New Glasgow on Sundays from 10 am–3 pm for a local craft market, artisan workshops and food. Free admission. Supported by Central Coastal Tourism Partnership. 5592 Route 13, New Glasgow. themillinnewglasgow.com
BGC Holiday Craft Fair
The BGC Charlottetown’s inaugural craft fair will run on December 9 and 10 from 10 am–5 pm at the BGC Club House. All admission fees will go directly toward BGC’s recreational programming. Formerly the Boys and Girls Club, BGC’s mission is to provide safe, supportive places where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships, and develop confidence and skills for life. Check out the local makers, support the local club, and get that perfect holiday gift. Follow on FB for updates. 35 St. Peters Rd, Charlottetown.
Artisan Christmas Market
Give local this season. Stop by to see what local craftspeople make at the Charlottetown Farmers Market on Sundays, December 10 and 17, from 10 am to 3 pm. Admission and parking are free. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown.
Page A12 The BUZZ December 2023
SCREEN Adult Sunday Matinee
The Summerside Rotary Library hosts a matinee film screening every other Sunday at 2 pm. This month, the films are Ant-man: Quantumania (PG-13) on December 3 and The Santa Clause (G) on December 17. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Eptek Lunch Film Series
The Friends of Eptek Centre’s weekly lunchtime film series continues until April. Mostly travelogues, the films are screened on Thursdays at noon and include some new films and some from late Friend Blanche Hogg. There is no charge for the film presentation. The upcoming screenings include: The Land that Devours Ships on December 7; The
Great Canadian Wilderness—The Wild Shore on December 14; and Back in Time
for Christmas—The 1940s, ‘50s, and ‘60s on December 21. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
Movie at Kings Playhouse
Kings Playhouse will screen Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol on December 9 at 3 pm. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown.
Filmworks Summerside at Harbourfront The Filmworks Summerside at Harbourfront Series continues with a
screening of the film Driving Madeline on December 11 at 7 pm. Customers can book advance tickets via phone at 888-2500, online at harbourfronttheatre.com, or in person at the box office. Tickets can also be purchased on the day of the screening. 124 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
Anime Club
Watch and discuss an episode of anime at Anime Club (ages 18+) on December 12 at 6 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. Anime is shown in original Japanese with English subtitles. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Monday Movie for Teens
Teens are invited to the Summerside Rotary Library on December 18 for popcorn, snacks, and a screening of the movie A Muppet Christmas Carol at 5:30 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Holiday movie at CLLC
Throw on an ugly holiday sweater and visit the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre on December 18 for a screening of Love Actually (R) at 6 pm. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Theatre Thursday
Watch a movie at the Summerside Rotary Library on Theatre Thursday, December 28 at 2 pm. This month’s film is Beauty and the Beast (2017). Rated PG. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Holiday Home Decorating Contest
Charlottetown residents are invited to participate in this holiday season activity and share in the magical spirit with your neighbours and family by decorating the outside of your home. REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MONDAY, DECEMBER 4 Judging will take place the week of December 11
To register, call 902- 629-4128 or email: jedoucette@charlottetown.ca
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A13
Holiday Viewing by Sean McQuaid
A super TV Christmas Superheroes aren’t the most traditional Christmas concept, but seasonal TV is full of them. For 12 super days of Christmas, check out these dozen heroic holiday gems...
Batman: The Animated Series—
“Christmas with the Joker” (S1E2, 1992) Robin’s efforts to get a brooding Batman into the holiday spirit are interrupted when the Joker escapes Arkham Asylum for a yuletide crime spree complete with his own twisted TV Christmas special.
Batman: The Animated Series—
“A Bullet for Bullock” (S4E4, 1995) Gotham’s most obnoxious police detective, Harvey Bullock, usually spends his holidays alone—but when a mysterious enemy targets him for death, Bullock reluctantly turns to the vigilante Batman for help.
The Tick—“The Tick Loves Santa!” (S2E12, 1995) When a freak accident turns a Santasuited bank robber into self-replicating one-man criminal army Multiple Santa, Christmas-loving superhero The Tick can’t bear to battle a villain who looks like Santa Claus. The New Batman Adventures—
“Holiday Knights” (S1E1, 1997) A polished anthology of three holiday shorts including a Harley Quinn/ Poison Ivy larcenous Christmas shopping spree, Batgirl & the GCPD vs. Clayface, and Batman & Robin vs. the Joker’s New Year’s evil.
Justice League—“Comfort and Joy” (S2E23, 2003) The Leaguers take a winter break as Superman and Martian Manhunter enjoy a Kent family Christmas in Smallville, Green Lantern and Hawkgirl compare their very different approaches to holiday merriment, and the Flash races to find a special Christmas gift for orphans. Smallville—“Lexmas” (S5E9, 2005)
A young Lex Luthor—surprisingly oft-sympathetic in this series set in Superman’s youth—reaches a dark crossroads as a holiday near-death experience shows him the idyllic life he could have if he chooses the right path.
Ultimate Spider-Man—“Nightmare
on Christmas” (S3E22, 2014) Lonely and discouraged at Christmas time, Spider-Man faces a nightmarish series of foes from his past, present and future in a trippy episode that pays tribute to Spidey comics and cartoons of decades ago.
Ultimate Spider-Man—“The Moon
Knight Before Christmas” (S4E24, 2016) A homicidal Christmas tree, hostile gingerbread men and other holiday horrors await when Spider-Man, house-sitting for Doctor Strange, battles criminal illusionist Mysterio and fanatical vigilante Moon Knight.
DC’s Legends of Tomorrow—“Beebo the God of War” (S3E9–2017) DC’s eclectic gang of time-traveling super-misfits intervene when a holiday temporal mishap results in super-popular talking cuddly plush toy Beebo being worshipped as a god by the Vikings.
Justice League Action—“Party
Animal” (S1E46–2017) The Justice League’s annual Christmas bash is interrupted by monstrous party crasher Solomon Grundy while festive host Green Arrow struggles desperately to impress a frosty Batman.
Hawkeye (2021)
Avenging archer Hawkeye’s family Christmas plans are interrupted by murderous gangsters, his would-be sidekick Kate Bishop and the Black Widow’s vengeful successor Yelena Belova in this charming 6-episode Disney+ action dramedy.
The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)
It’s a gloriously weird, wildly funny holiday heart-warmer when Marvel’s interplanetary oddballs try to give their Earth-born leader Peter Quill the perfect Christmas gift by... abducting Kevin Bacon? Most of these shows can be found via streaming. The Batman and Justice League picks are all on the Teletoon streaming service, and some of it on Netflix. Smallville is on Netflix and Prime, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow is on Crave, and my Spider-Man, Hawkeye and Guardians picks are all on Disney+.
In-school mentors Sign up to be an in-school mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). Mentors spend an hour a week with a child at their school, helping them reach their full potential. Mentors can build a child’s self-esteem and confidence while having fun playing games, making crafts, or just chatting. For info, call 569-KIDS, email info@bbbspei.ca or visit bbbspei.ca.
Page A14 The BUZZ December 2023
Genocide Revealed
Maestro
December 1, Admission: $8
December 8–16
14A, mature theme. Dir: Yurij Luhovy, Canada, 2010, 75 min. Graham Greene, Jill Hennessy, Lubomir Mykytiuk.
PG, language, mature theme. Dir: Bradley Cooper, US, 2023, 129 min. Carey Mulligan, Bradley Cooper, Matt Bomer.
Winner, Best Historical Film, Honolulu Int’l Film Festival Presented by Ukrainian Canadian Congress - PEI Branch
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.
Genocide Revealed exposes Moscow’s policy of genocide against the Ukrainian nation. The film focuses on the 1932 - 1933 manmade famine in Soviet Ukraine engineered by Stalin’s regime against the rural population, and the accompanied decimation of the national elite and destruction of Ukraine’s historical past. It reveals one of the greatest human tragedies of the 20th century. Millions perished.
The Stones and Brian Jones December 2–7 PG, language, violence. Dir: Nick Broomfield, UK, 2023, 93 min. Bill Wyman, Marianne Faithful, Volker Schlöndorff, Linda Lawrence.
Rent City Cinema City Cinema is available for rent for private film viewings! We provide the projectionist and will have 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 Member 65 and over 14 and under
$11.00 $8.00 $8.00 $8.00
We now accept credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema
Annual membership - $25.00
Eight-year-old troublemaker Kevin McCallister, mistakenly left home alone, must defend his home against a pair of burglars on Christmas eve.
“Maestro confirms what was suggested by Cooper’s directorial debut, A Star Is Born. He has sky-high ambitions, and he has the technical virtuosity and big-hearted sincerity to fulfill those ambitions with flair… It begins in 1943 when the 25-year-old Bernstein is a last-minute stand-in at Carnegie Hall for the New York Philharmonic’s indisposed conductor. With no time to rehearse, he nonetheless wields the baton with such brilliance that, well, a star is born. Soon, he is busy composing the score for a musical, On the Town, and he is trading urbane quips with Felicia Montealegre (Carey Mulligan), a moneyed actress who is keen to marry him despite her knowledge of his gay relationships. The early stages of their romance are presented as a black-and-white 1940s backstage melodrama, a whirlwind of fast talking, hectic pacing and wild dream sequences… Later, when Bernstein is an over-stretched, over-indulged celebrity, Maestro switches to colour, and has the look and feel of a gritty 1970s drama. The screenplay avoids ticking off all of Bernstein’s major triumphs and setbacks. Instead, they have constructed a fond character study that luxuriates in its subject’s livewire personality while acknowledging how exasperating and exhausting he could be… Maestro is a warm yet melancholy portrait of someone who is the life and soul of every party not just because he loves company but because he fears being alone. Mulligan’s performance… is a sparkling tour de force… She has never been better.”—Nicholas Barber, BBC “Like the man whose life it celebrates, Maestro deserves to pack the stalls.” —Phil de Semlyen, Time Out
Dial Code Santa Claus December 17 14A, violence, frightening scenes. Dir. René Manzor, France, 1989, 92 min. Brigitte Fossey, Louis Ducreux, Patrick Floershim.
On Christmas Eve, a resourceful young boy has to defend himself and his grandfather from a killer dressed as Santa Claus. Known internationally as Deadly Games, Game Over, 36/15: Hide & Freak, and a million other titles, this gonzo French take on Home Alone will be the perfect hidden gem to stuff in this year’s stocking.
It’s a Wonderful Life December 18 PG. Dir. Frank Capra, US, 1946, 130 min. James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore.
Elf “Nick Broomfield’s The Stones and Brian Jones brims with piercing insights. Its subject is the musical virtuoso and gifted multi-instrumentalist Brian Jones, the founder and original leader of the Rolling Stones, whose tumultuous, drug-fueled personal life got in the way of his prodigious talent and led to an early death at the age of 27. Relying heavily on eyewitness accounts from those who knew Jones, Broomfield creates a portrait that, rather than lionizing the troubled musician by seeking to reevaluate his life and legacy, presents a tragic tale of a deeply flawed and insecure individual who became a casualty of his own excess. The film’s approach to recounting Jones’s story is deceptively simple. Over reams of archival footage — which include everything from home movies of Jones as a child to parties with the pre-famous Rolling Stones — Broomfield incorporates audio snippets of testimonies from Jones’s friends, lovers, and colleagues. And the results prove to be as haunting as they are fascinating.... The Stones and Brian Jones is intensely charged with a level of emotion that most rockumentaries lack. ” —Wes Greene, Slant
December 17 PG. Dir. Jon Favreau, US, 2003, 97 min. James Caan, Will Ferrel, Zoey Deschanel.
An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation December 18 Raised as an oversized elf, Buddy travels from the North Pole to New York City to meet his biological father, Walter Hobbs, who doesn’t know he exists and is in desperate need of some Christmas spirit.
Home Alone December 17 PG. Dir. Chris Colombus, US, 1990, 103 min. Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern.
PG, language, mature content. Dir. Jeremiah S Chechik, US, 1989, 97 min. Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Juliette Lewis.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A15 National Lampoon’s flagship Griswold family have their plans for a big family Christmas flipped upside down when their nutty relatives arrive for the holidays.
Salaar, a feared and tough gang leader, worked in the coal mines of Telangana under Rajamanaar, his mentor and friend. When Rajamanaar was attacked and killed by Vardharaja’s men, Salaar promised to protect Rajamanaar’s family and get revenge.
Jingle All The Way December 19 PG. Dir. Brian Levant, US, 1996, 89 min. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sinbad, Phil Hartman.
becomes determined to expose him in this Canadian cult headtrip. -- and yes folks, this is a Christmas movie. Come find out why!
McCabe & Mrs. Miller December 21 R, violence, mature theme. Dir. Robert Altman, US, 1971, 120 min. Warren Beatty, Julie Christie, Rene Auberjonois.
The Three Musketeers Part I: D’Artagnan December 26–31 PG, violence, brief nudity. Dir: Martin Bourboulon, France/Germany/Spain, 2023, 121 min. François Civil, Vincent Cassel, Romain Duris. In French with English subtitles.
city cinema schedule DECEMBER 1
Fri
7:00 Genocide Revealed
2
Sat
2:00 Stones…Brian Jones 7:00 Stones…Brian Jones
3
Sun
4
Mon 7:00 Stones…Brian Jones
5
Tue
6
Wed 7:00 Stones…Brian Jones
7
Thu
7:00 Stones…Brian Jones
8
Fri
7:00 Maestro
9
Sat
2:00 Maestro
7:00 Stones…Brian Jones 7:00 Stones…Brian Jones
7:00 Maestro A father vows to get his son a Turbo Man action figure for Christmas. However, every store is sold out, and he must travel all over town and compete with everybody else in order to find one.
Die Hard December 19 14A, violence, strong language. Dir. John McTiernan, US, 1988, 132 min. Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia.
10 Sun
A gambler and an escort become business partners in a remote Old West mining town, and their enterprise thrives until a large corporation arrives on the scene. Altman’s classic snowbound western that showed the West how it was.
The Hateful Eight December 21
A New York City police officer tries to save his estranged wife and several others taken hostage by terrorists during a Christmas party at the Nakatomi Plaza in Los Angeles. A counter-culture classic, and everyone’s favourite go-to “It’s actually a Christmas movie” pick.
R, violence, language, mature content. Dir. Quentin Tarantino, US, 2015, 168 min. Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Amber Tamblyn, Tim Roth.
Gremlins December 20 PG. Dir. Joe Dante, US, 1984, 107 min. Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Dick Miller.
In the dead of a Wyoming winter, a bounty hunter and his prisoner find shelter in a cabin currently inhabited by a collection of nefarious characters. Not a dissimilar experience to spending the holidays with your in-laws, Tarantino’s Western ode to The Thing is a staple of long, weird winter gatherings.
Salaar A young man inadvertently breaks three important rules concerning his new pet and unleashes a horde of malevolently mischievous monsters on a small town.
The Brain December 20 R, violence, mature content. Dir. Ed Hunt, Canada, 1988, 94 min. Tom Bresnahan, David Gale, Cynthia Preston. A psychologist’s popular TV show brainwashes his audiences using a giant living brain. A mischievous high school student is sent to the psychologist’s institute, and
December 22, Ticketing link TBA Rating TBA. Dir : Prashanth Neel, India, 2023, 175 min. Prabhas, Shruthi Haasan, Prudhvi Raj. In Telugu with English subtitles.
11
Mon 7:00 Maestro
12
Tue
13
Wed 7:00 Maestro
7:00 Maestro
14 Thu
7:00 Maestro
Fri
7:00 Maestro
16 Sat
2:00 Maestro
15 “A rollicking historical romp with nary a dull moment, The Three Musketeers - D’Artagnan offers all the sprightly action, jaunty repartee and sumptuous settings a contemporary movie-goer could possibly want… Intelligently written, energetically acted and solidly entertaining… Motivations - solving a murder, rescuing a wrongly convicted comrade-at-arms, keeping a potentially explosive royal secret, infiltrating a religious order — are anchored in the real world and the stakes are always high… Action — or plotting that will lead to action — is the preferred mode. Every body and brain is set to full speed ahead. And yet this isn’t exhausting to watch, just fun… There are long immersive tracking shots with layers of action unspooling within a you-are-there visual framework… The offhanded humor is nicely established when, on his very first day in Paris, D’Artagnan manages to offend three different men and accept three different duels that very afternoon. Developments are sometimes very swift, although not hard to follow. Just the night before arriving in the capital, D’Artagnan was shot and buried, only to emerge, coughing, from a shallow grave. There’s an explanation and like several twists along the way, it’s a clever one.” —Lisa Nesselson, Screen Daily “This lavish period drama taps enthusiastically into the spirit of the source material. This is flamboyant, ostentatious, grandstanding film-making, unashamedly old-fashioned and incorrigibly entertaining.” —Wendy Ide, The Observer
7:00 Maestro
7:00 Maestro 17
Sun
2:00 Elf 7:00 Home Alone 9:30 Dial Code Santa…
18 Mon 6:30 It’s a Wonderful Life 9:30 Christmas Vacation 19 Tue
7:00 Jingle All the Way 9:30 Die Hard
20 Wed 7:00 Gremlins 9:30 The Brain 21
Thu
5:00 McCabe…Mrs. Miller 7:45 The Hateful Eight
22 Fri
7:00 Salaar
December 23–25 Closed for the Holidays 26 Tue
6:30 Three Musketeers
27 Wed 6:30 Three Musketeers 28 Thu
6:30 Three Musketeers
29 Fri
6:30 Three Musketeers
30 Sat
2:00 Three Musketeers 6:30 Three Musketeers
City Cinema presents
31
Sun
Be sure to follow us on our social media pages for up-to-date reminders and updates to our schedule. Email info@citycinema.ca to sign up for our newsletter and stay in the know with all the goings on!
citycinema.ca
6:30 Three Musketeers
Charlottetown and Stratford community candle lightings
In celebration of the first night of Hanukkah, the PEI Jewish Community is hosting a candle lighting of the Hanukkah Menorah near Province House in Charlottetown (on Grafton and Church Streets). Taking place on December 7 at 5:15 pm, this marks the third annual display of the Hanukkah Menorah on the grounds of the Legislative Assembly. An additional light will be added nightly for the following seven nights, culminating on December 14. All are welcome to attend. For information, info@peijc.org The Town of Stratford will be celebrating the second night of Hanukkah on December 8 with the 4 pm lighting of the Hanukkah Menorah erected in front of Stratford Town Hall. The PEI Jewish Community will be attending this celebration. All are welcome. For more information, email info@townofstratford.ca
A Family Christmas Celebrations at the Acadian Museum A family Christmas celebration will be held at the Acadian Museum of Prince Edward Island in Miscouche, on December 3 from 1:30–4 pm. During the afternoon, there will be an ornament-making workshop for children and Christmas music featuring the Mont-Carmel church choir. Folklorist Georges Arsenault will give a bilingual illustrated presentation on Santa Claus’ visits in Acadian communities over the last 150 years. The festivity will come to a close with a lunch and a singalong of French Christmas carols. Everyone is welcome and admission is free for everyone. Donations will be gratefully accepted. For more information, contact the Acadian Museum at 432-2880.
Yuletide Village
Charlottetown Christmas Festive tradition continues until January 2
Family-friendly Saturdays in Summerside—Dec 2, 9 & 16
The Summerside Yuletide Village returns this year with a full schedule of events on consecutive Saturdays, December 2, 9 and 16 from 3–8 pm, at Veteran’s Memorial Square Park. The programming features a multitude of family-friendly activities including: visits with Santa plus hot chocolate and s’mores; a tinsel tug of war; kids craft; Christmas-themed book reading, card making, movie, improv, choral music and charades; toy building at Santa’s workshop; cookie decorating; horse and wagon rides; Santa sack races; candy cane bingo; crafter’s market; festive fashion show; Santa training; Reindeer Games finale and much more. The full schedule can be found on page A2 of this issue of The Buzz.
The Charlottetown Christmas Festival, a holiday tradition presented by Discover Charlottetown, continues until January 2. In partnership with the City of Charlottetown, this festive extravaganza features a wide array of activities and experiences to celebrate the holiday season. Until January 2, visitors can step into the whimsical world inspired by Dr. Seuss at Christmas Town, a WhovilleInspired Village; or take in the Holiday Magic on the Plaza featuring a mesmerizing holiday projection screened nightly on the plaza at Confederation Centre of the Arts. Shop for unique holiday gifts December 2–3 at the Holiday Makers Market at Chi Wan Young Sports Centre at UPEI. Experience the magic of a Victorian Christmas at Beaconsfield Historic House on weekends to December 10. Discover artisanal creations at the Charlottetown Farmers Market’s Artisan Christmas Market on December 10 and 17. Deck the Hall presented by Founder’s Food Hall & Market runs on weekends until December 17 and features culinary experiences, artisan markets, live music, and more.
JENNA RACHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Celebrating Hanukkah
MILLEE MCKAY PHOTOGRAPPHY
Page A16 The BUZZ December 2023
LIVE @ the Centre holiday shows run on select dates from December 2–21 at Confederation Centre. Experience the charm of the openair Mistletoe Market on the plaza at Confederation Centre on weekends until December 24. To ring in the new year, take part in the family-friendly Capital New Year celebrations on December 31 presented by Founders’ Food Hall & Market. Or dance into the new year at Craig Fair and Trailside Music Halls’ You Should be Dancin’ Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party (19+ event). For more information about these upcoming events under the festival’s marketing umbrella, visit charlottetownchristmasfestival.com.
Magic of Christmas Holiday season at Wyatt Heritage Properties
Christmas in Bonshaw Gather at The Bonshaw Hall— Dec 16 Everyone is invited to join the festivities at The Bonshaw Hall on December 16 at 6:30 pm. Gather with neighbours and friends to sing the music of the season, hear a story or two, enjoy hot cider and a cookie and, of course, to see that jolly fellow dressed in red and white with goodies for all. The early time is to encourage families with younger children. Admission by donation in support of the Hall, children under 12 free.
This holiday season, take in the Magic of Christmas: Christmas Trees Through The Ages Exhibit presented by Culture Summerside and Wyatt Heritage Properties Inc, on view at Lefurgey Cultural Centre from December 4–22. The exhibit will also run from January 8–12 for those with a busy December schedule. Transforming the main floor of the 1867 Lefurgey Cultural Centre into an evergreen forest of decorated Christmas trees that tell how the tree became a central part of Christmas celebrations, the exhibit explores the industry that has grown out of the tradition and the ever-changing fashions that keep it going. First launched in 2019, the exhibit has new trees added each year. The presenters created the exhibit to give viewers the pleasure of the season without the expense. Adding to the exhibit on December 9, the event Celebrate the Season will
feature a tasting of holiday treats. Most holidays are centred around food, bringing people together and forming community. There will be an opportunity for participants to create their own watercolour Christmas tree painting with artist Maurice Bernard, and enjoy festive music. The storm date is December 16. Lefurgey Cultural Centre is located at 205 Prince Street, Summerside. The Summerside Yuletide Festival will also be happening in Memorial Square right next to Wyatt Heritage Properties during the two Saturdays of the exhibit. Bring family and friends to enjoy the festive spirit. Magic of Christmas: Christmas Trees Through The Ages Exhibit is open Monday through Friday from 9 am–5 pm and on December 9 and 16, from 3–8 pm. A 3D tour of the exhibit will be offered at culturesummerside.com beginning December 11.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A17
Film Review by Sean McQuaid
A lobster tale Who’s Yer Father? Cineplex Charlottetown November 11, 2023
“When I start out to make a fool of myself, there’s very little can stop me,” says Michael O’Hara, the chump protagonist of Orson Welles’ noir mystery classic The Lady from Shanghai (1947). That goes double for bumbling hick detective Larry Constable, the hero of writer/director/producer Jeremy Larter’s new indie mystery comedy film Who’s Yer Father? (WYF), recently popular in PEI theatres. Noir mysteries like The Maltese Falcon (1941) and Out of the Past (1947) came to mind via WYF since the newer movie invokes plenty of old-time noir mystery tropes—the down-on-his luck detective, untrustworthy clients, femme fatale beauties, painful personal history and double-crosses aplenty—and Larter is a fan of classic detective yarns. Larter’s movie, unfortunately, never fully gels into something consistent, coherent or convincing. To be fair, it’s billed and structured more as a comedy than a mystery, so a degree of goofiness seems acceptable, even desirable, but the components here feel out of balance. PEI’s only private detective Larry Constable (played by Toronto comedian Chris Locke) is so relentlessly stupid that it’s hard to take him seriously, but Larter’s script and Locke’s oft-understated performance make Larry such a banal sad sack most of the time that he’s seldom enjoyable as a cartoonish comedy character either, more pathetic or annoying than funny. Larry’s life of picayune sleuthing pratfalls takes a turn for the glamorous when obnoxious seafood mogul Luke Thorne (played by Matt Wells) hires him to find out which black-market dealer is buying up lobster from one of Thorne’s suppliers, sleazy fisherman Glenn Misener (former PEI QMJHL hockey player turned actor Steve Lund). Investigating, Larry encounters shady characters such as Misener, flaky con artist Junior (played by Jess Salgueiro of Frasier), louche lobster supper kingpin Gavin MacDonald (PEI theatre staple Graham Putnam), Luke’s lusty wife Nicole (Kaniehtiio Horn of Letterkenny) and feisty convenience store owner Rhonda Perry (an earthily charming Susan Kent from This Hour Has 22 Minutes and Pretty Hard Cases). One of the movie’s funniest, most believable and most likeable characters, Kent’s Rhonda seduces a smitten Larry into blackmail, theft and more. Kent and Locke have good chemistry, and
Larry is never more likeable than when we’re seeing him through Rhonda’s surprisingly affectionate eyes. Other standouts include Horn’s sultry Nicole, whose compelling, dark intensity would work just as well in a straight noir as it does in this comedy equivalent; and the ever-entertaining Putnam, whose too-brief turn as creepy lobster-monger Gavin is equal parts bizarre and ridiculous in a good way. Despite all its noir tropes, WYF largely fizzles as a mystery, especially its ending; logical consequences for various actions never materialize, loose ends never get tied up and the film’s bad guys either inexplicably relent or just wander off never to be seen again. The movie also only clicks intermittently as a comedy, too often relying on a mix of tired toilet humour, sex jokes and profanity; the film’s humour works best when it’s rooted in the personalities of its characters or quirks of PEI culture. The film also musters moments of touching romance, and packs in plenty of gorgeous PEI scenery and notable Island landmarks (Gillis’ Drive-In has never looked better nor quite so vaguely sinister, like something out of an Archie comic written by David Lynch). WYF is a weak mystery, a middling comedy and an uneven mix of the two genres—for better blends of these elements see Donald’s Crime (1945), Duck Pimples (1945), The Great Piggy Bank Robbery (1946), The Late Show (1977), Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988), Fargo (1996) or Adventure Time episode “Root Beer Guy” (2013), to name just a few—but an appealing cast, a few good laughs, a goofily fun climactic fight scene, robust local box office and the feat of financing and creating a feature film shot entirely in PEI make this movie an impressive achievement regardless.
Page A18 The BUZZ December 2023
PEI BOOKS Santa’s Angel:
A Home to the Island Christmas Story Marsha Doiron Illus. by Christine White
registered PEI charity), Doiron will be at Founders’ Food Hall & Market in Charlottetown on December 2 at 3 pm, PEI Preserve Company on December 7 at 6:15 pm (part of the New Glasgow Tree Lighting), and Island Hill Farm on December 9 from 1–2:30 pm (bring a toy donation and get free admission). Books are available for purchase at preservecompany.com.
Time Flies:
A History of Prince Edward Island from the Air Joshua MacFadyen
Santa’s Angel: A Home to the Island Christmas Story by Marsha Doiron and illustrated by Christine White was released on November 28 by Charlottetown’s Pownal Street Press. The heartwarming true story is about the powerful bond of family, the kindness of strangers, the enduring magic of the season—and how taking a leap of faith and trusting in the unknown can lead to delightful outcomes. After a winter trip to Florida, one little family looks forward to making their way back to PEI in time to share Christmas Eve with their loved ones—but a nor’easter on the Atlantic has other plans in mind. With all flights cancelled to Canada’s wintry east coast, will Cindy and her daughter Zoe be able to reunite with Cindy’s husband Luke and his son Cam? And, if they do, will the family safely find their way home to PEI before the stockings are hung by the chimney with care? In celebration of the book and to raise money for Santa’s Angels (a
Joshua MacFadyen launched a new book that offers an aerial view of PEI’s changing landscapes on November 29. Published by Island Studies Press, Time Flies: A History of Prince Edward Island from the Air offers an unprecedented view of one island province’s journey into modernity through a unique blend of aerial photography and historical synthesis. The book presents images of iconic landscapes on PEI and traces how those communities and natural ecosystems have changed over 85 years (1935–2020). Each site history illustrates and reflects on the nature of modern land use and land cover change in one of four chapters organized around primary resource economies, rural
ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTRE
PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION AND JOB READINESS SKILLS COURSE FOR NEWCOMERS – A mix of evening classes and online learning – Visit upei.ca/elc to learn more! In partnership with the
communities, urban development, and islands and coastal change. Dr. MacFadyen is the Canada Research Chair in Geospatial Humanities and an associate professor in the Applied Communication, Leadership, and Culture program at UPEI. His previous books include Flax Americana: A History of the Fibre and Oil That Covered a Continent and Time and a Place: An Environmental History of Prince Edward Island. For more information, contact Bren Simmers (566-0386; ispstaff@upei.ca).
Hoofprints and Heartstrings:
A boy’s memories of Maritime harness racing in the 1970s Russell Henderson
Saint John, NB native Russell Henderson’s first book, Hoofprints and Heartstrings: A boy’s memories of Maritime harness racing in the 1970s, is the latest to be published by RetroMedia Publishing in Charlottetown, PEI. With passion and humour, Hoofprints and Heartstrings offers the reader a railbird’s seat of the jubilant highs and devastating lows experienced during the glory days of Maritime harness racing. Growing up only a stone’s throw away from Exhibition Park Raceway in Saint John, NB allowed Henderson’s love of horses and harness racing to bloom. Though it was the lure of racing action that initially drew him in, it was the relationships he built with the four-legged athletes that had an everlasting impact on him. The book was officially launched in October at Red Shores Racetrack and Casino in Charlottetown. The event was recorded and can be viewed online at retromedia.ca. Hoofprints and Heartstrings is available now at retromedia.ca and at select local bookstores in PEI and NB.
A gift of Island Poetry DOG IN FIELD Simply by being recognized as an Islander all artlessness is forgiven. My request of a triple rum on Air Canada hardly raises a brow. I can give an overhearable opinion about the baked potatoes in a Toronto restaurant, or sport red mud on my car driving down Boyleston Street in the Boston States, or can say, G’day b’y, to the startled person entering a hotel elevator in Ottawa, or toe-tap unmolested during question period in the House of Commons: the Sergeant-at-Arms can’t tell the difference between “God Save the Queen” and “St. Anne’s Reel” and thinks I’m keeping time to the simultaneous translation. Once, so moved by the super-realism of Alex Colville’s hunting beagle in the National Gallery, I made the mistake of whistling, Here boy, only to be told by the attendant to keep silence or to get out. Hol’ on a minute there, young fella, don’t y’know who yer talkin’ to? I says. He stuck to his guns, and I went off with my tail between my legs, but I swear that dog barked at him as I left. Frank Ledwell’s “Dog in Field” is found in Dip & Veer: Reflections on the Art of Alex Colville. The Acorn Press, 1996. Each month Deirdre Kessler selects a poem by an Island poet for The Buzz.
Candle-Lighting for Victims of Violence Wednesday, December 6 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. Memorial Hall, Confederation Centre of the Arts
Guest Speaker: SingerSongwriter Nikkie Gallant Musical Performance: Anastasia DesRoches
2023-2024 Purple Ribbon Campaign Against Violence
READERS & WRITERS Ryan Fahey book launch
Frank Ledwell (1930-2008)
Montreal Massacre Memorial Service
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A19
PEI Advisory Council on the Status of Women, 902-368-4510, info@peistatusofwomen.ca
Island author Ryan Fahey will launch his latest book, Listen: How To Be You In A World Where You Can Be Anything, at Lone Oak Brewing on December 2 at 2 pm. Email Ryan at faheyconsulting@ gmail.com to register. 15 Milky Way, Charlottetown.
Marsha Doiron book events for Santa’s Angels
Santa’s Angel: A Home to the Island Christmas Story by PEI author Marsha Doiron and PEI illustrator and author Christine White (Christina G. Gaudet) was released on November 28. To celebrate the book and to raise money for Santa’s Angels, Marsha Doiron will be selling copies of Santa’s Angel at several PEI events this month. A portion of the proceeds from book sales will be donated to Santa’s Angels, a registered PEI charity that visits hundreds of homes across the Island, bringing food, toys and gifts delivered by Santa and the elves (santasangels.ca). Upcoming book events with Doiron will take place at: Founders’ Food Hall & Market in Charlottetown on December 2 at 3 pm; PEI Preserve Company on December 7 at 6 pm (part of the New Glasgow community tree lighting event featuring Santa, hot cocoa, and a lit Gardens of Hope walk); 24 Harbourview Drive in North Rustico (with a visit from Santa) on December 8 from 6–7:30 pm; and Island Hill Farm on December 9 from 1–2:30 pm (bring a toy donation and get complimentary admission). Santa’s Angel was published by PEI’s Pownal Street Press and can be purchased at preservecompany.com.
Eptek Centre Book Club
The members of the Eptek Centre Book Club will meet at 7 pm on December 7 to discuss the book Into the Water by Paula Hawkins. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
Book sales and signing
PEI-based father-and-daughter novelist duo Tim and Victoria Goddard will be selling their literary fantasy, mystery and detective fiction novels at the Charlottetown Farmers Market’s Artisan Christmas Market this month. On December 10, Tim will be signing copies of his new book, Scammers. On December 17, Victoria will be signing copies of her new works, Derring-do for Beginners and The Game of Courts. Copies of these titles, and earlier books by the authors, will be on sale on both days. The Market will run from 10 am–3 pm. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown.
Poet-in-Residence
PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis will be the Poet-in-Residence at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre on the second Thursday of each month.
Davis will be writing, reading, and happy to speak one-on-one with Island writers about a specific project of theirs, or the writing life in general. The next Poet-in-Residence day is December 14 from 3–5 pm. Contact the library via phone at 368-4642 or in person at 97 Queen Street, Charlottetown, to set up an appointment in advance or on the day of the event.
Summerside Rotary Library Book Club
Join the Summerside Rotary Library Book Club for a lively discussion about some of today’s most thought-provoking books. Pick up a copy of the latest book club selection at the main circulation desk. The next meeting is December 16 at 2 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Book Lovers Talk Books
Join Book Lovers Talk Books, an informal conversation-style book club, on December 19 at 6 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. Participants talk about the books they are currently reading with fellow certified book lovers, get recommendations, and share the love of reading with others. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Edwardian Christmas History talk and art workshop at Bedeque Museum—Dec 9 The Bedeque Area Historical Museum invites Christmas and history lovers alike to an Edwardian Christmas History Talk on December 9 at 7 pm. The talk will explore the transformation of Christmas from a humble and homemade affair into today’s commercialized celebration. Local holiday newspaper advertisements will be used as sources. Earlier that day, from 10 am–4 pm, the museum will also host a free, drop-in Edwardian Christmas craft workshop. Conducted by a guide in historical costume, this workshop is free and open to all ages. Crafts will include homemade Christmas crackers and turn-of-the-century holiday postcards. Additionally, there will be carolling and a Christmas Card exhibit. Both events are free and open to all. In the case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to December 16. The museum is located at 950 Callbeck St Unit 113, Central Bedeque.
Page A20 The BUZZ December 2023
Black History Month
The Black Cultural Society of Prince Edward Island is preparing a calendar of events and programming for Black History Month, which runs from January 27 until February 29, 2024. Save the date for the Opening Gala on January 27. Tickets will be available for purchase on December 4. More details coming soon. Stay tuned for updates at bcspei. ca or follow @blackculturalsocietypei on Facebook and Instagram.
Montreal Massacre Memorial Service
As part of its 2023-2024 Purple Ribbon Campaign Against Violence, the PEI Advisory Council on the Status of Women will host the Montreal Massacre Memorial Service on December 6 from 12 noon–1 pm in Memorial Hall at Confederation Centre of the Arts. The event will include a candle lighting for victims of violence, and feature guest speaker Nikkie Gallant, with a musical performance by Anastasia DesRoches. For more information, call 368-4510 or email info@peistatusofwomen.ca.
Peace in the Middle East
The Island Peace Committee is a group of Islanders who promote the non-violent resolution to conflict. Currently, the Island’s local group, along with peace activists around the world, are lobbying for a ceasefire in Gaza due to the death of thousands of civilians, which is a crime against humanity. Peace events will take place in Charlottetown until there is a ceasefire on Saturday afternoons at 2 pm in the park next to the Cenotaph on Grafton Street. Public participation is welcome. Call 368-7337 for more info.
Farmers Helping Farmers 2023 Holiday Campaign
The needs in Kenya continue to drive Farmers Helping Farmers (FHF) board members to work hard to raise funds that are critical to the wellbeing of the women and children in Meru county. The 2023 Holiday Campaign is FHF’s biggest fundraiser of the year, thanks to their generous donors. Last year, more than $93,000 was raised and all funds go directly to sustainable gifts such as chickens for eggs, seeds for gardens, grow bags and water tanks. For those looking for a meaningful gift that continues to provide for a family for a long time, look no further. All donations are eligible for a tax receipt and if donations are made before December 15, a holiday card of thanks will be mailed to donors. For more info, visit farmershelpingfarmers. ca/projects/holiday-campaign.
Tracadie Lions fundraiser
The Tracadie Lions Club is selling tickets for its annual Calendar Cash Draw until the end of January. Cash prizes totalling over $3000 will be awarded and participants can win more than once. Tickets make great stocking stuffers and proceeds support many Lions’ initiatives,
COMMUNITY #1 including Christmas hampers, youth mental health and addiction, medical travel funding, and more. Draws will take place daily through the month of February. Tickets are available via phone at 218-6047 (call/text) and by email to tracadielions@winterbay.org.
City of Summerside Heritage and Culture Awards Nominations are open for the 2023 City of Summerside Heritage and Culture Awards. The awards are given annually in recognition of individual and group contributions to the preservation, promotion, education and celebration of heritage, arts and culture in the Summerside community. There are plenty of people and groups to nominate as they are the ones building the vibrant cultural community that all citizens enjoy. Nominators are invited to think outside the box when considering a nomination. The preservation of heritage and the interpretation of culture takes many forms. It can be anything from architectural preservation, oral storytelling, language preservation, natural heritage preservation, storytelling, exhibits, etc. The nomination categories are: Heritage Activities; Arts/Culture Activities; Publication of the Year; Heritage, Arts or Culture Volunteer of the Year; Heritage, Arts or Culture Youth Volunteer of the Year; and Award of Honour for Heritage/Culture. Nomination forms are available online at culturesummerside.com, via phone at 432-1298, or in person at MacNaught History Centre and Archives, 75 Spring St, Summerside. The deadline is January 26 at 4 pm. The awards will be presented at the Mayor’s Heritage Tea. culturesummerside.com
Project Love
Gifts from the Heart’s Christmas program, Project Love, will provide food hampers, toys, wrapped presents and personal items for over 1000 Island families in December. Donations of food, toys, gift cards, volunteer hours and/ or cash are greatly appreciated and will help Betty Begg and her volunteers at Gifts from the Heart support their registered Project Love families. Call 628-6871 to register as a Project Love client or to adopt a family for this program. Contact Betty Begg at 393-0171 for more info or to help in any way. 10 Maple Hills Ave, Charlottetown.
World AIDS Day
Every year on December 1, the world commemorates World AIDS Day. People around the world unite to show support for people living with and affected by HIV and to remember those who lost their lives to AIDS. PEERS Alliance and Pride PEI are hosting an event on December 1 from 5–7 pm at the PEERS Alliance office (250B Queen St, Charlottetown) where they will commemorate World AIDS Day by unveiling
a mural that will honour the legacy of their organization’s predecessor, AIDS PEI. The mural will not only honour their shared history but also contribute to the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere of the PEERS Alliance office, which serves as an important hub for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in PEI.
PEI Rent-to-Own program
More Island residents will be able to reach their home ownership goals through a new provincial housing support program. The PEI Rent-to-Own program gives eligible applicants the opportunity to purchase their home without the immediate need for a down payment or a pre-approved mortgage. To be eligible, applicants must not be a homeowner currently, have a household income of $65,000 per year or less for individuals, or less than $100,000 for a dual income household, and demonstrate the ability to meet monthly payments. Finance PEI will purchase the eligible property and enter into a rent-to-own agreement with the program participant on a five-year, five per cent interest rate over 25 years. At any point during the five-year loan period, applicants in good standing can purchase the property from Finance PEI with an approved mortgage and apply 40 per cent of the interest paid as part of their down payment. Eligible properties must not exceed $350,000 excluding taxes and legal fees, be owner occupied and the applicant’s full yearround primary residence, and be an existing property on its own individual property identification number (PID). To learn more, Island residents can visit the Rent-to-Own program page online at princeedwardisland.ca.
EPWIC brings AmbiSHEous® program to PEI
East Prince Women’s Information Centre (EPWIC) has partnered with AmbiSHEous®, an Ottawa-based leadership training and career development initiative focused on girls, to offer StartUp Self™ sessions on PEI. Through unique programming and proprietary curriculum, AmbiSHEous® is preparing a new generation of young female leaders for the future of work, and empowering them to be whoever and whatever they want to be. As PEI’s certified delivery partner, EPWIC will be offering workshops and programs for girls and young women that take them through the process of planning a socially responsible small business or social-profit enterprise. Building on the fundamentals of financial literacy, the programs will cover the practical aspects of business, offer participants the opportunity to take ownership over their ideas, and empower them to take initiative. The AmbiSHEous® flagship program, StartUp Self™, takes direct aim at Canada’s gender leadership gap. Economic and political empowerment to girls is core to the StartUp Self™
approach. EPWIC is calling for entrepreneurs, businesses, political and social impact leaders from all over PEI to share their ambitions, advance their entrepreneurial ideas, and deliver mentorship over different programs, workshops supported by EPWIC. For questions about an upcoming StartUp Self™ session presented by EPWIC, or to volunteer to help equip and empower the next generation of PEI female leaders, contact Nancy Beth Guptill (nbguptill@gmail.com; 954-0481) or visit epwic.ca.
Upper Room Angels annual fundraising campaign
The Upper Room Angels is a non-denominational group that provides financial support to the Upper Room Hospitality Ministry (URHM) Food Bank and Soup Kitchen. The group raises the majority of its funds through their annual membership fee of $52—one dollar for each week of the year. Founded in 1989, the Upper Room Angels has raised over $2.5 million for the URHM Food Bank to help with the purchase of food and supplies needed to assist clients. The Angel’s 35th annual fundraising campaign is now well underway, with a goal to raise $75,000. To become an Upper Room Angel, send a cheque or money order for $52 to: The Upper Room Angels, c/o URHM Food Bank, 34 Belmont St, Charlotteton, C1A 5H1. Official tax receipts are provided. Visit urhm.org/become-an-angel/ to learn how to donate online. Info: Nancy Barrett, nancy.barrett@pei.sympatico.ca
Free tax clinics
Through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), community organizations host free tax clinics where volunteers complete tax returns for people with a modest income and a simple tax situation. The Canada Revenue Agency is looking for volunteers to file taxes for free to help those in need get their benefits and credits. To become a volunteer, visit canada.ca/ taxes-volunteer today. Organizations are needed to host the free virtual or in-person tax clinics so that volunteers can help those in need access qualifying benefits by filing their taxes for free. Visit canada.ca/taxes-volunteer to learn more. To find out if an organization is eligible for a grant to help cover expenses of running free CVITP clinics, visit canada. ca/free-tax-clinics-grant.
Coastin Run Club
Coasting Run Club is a social community that holds free weekly runs for all abilities. Every Saturday at 9 am, the group meets at the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market on Belvedere Ave. to do a 4–5 run that ends back at the Market. All you have to do is show up. The group runs at a conversational pace, and no one is left behind. After the run, stay for coffee and chat. Coasting is for anyone who wants to get outside, be active and meet people. For more info follow on Instagram @ coastingrunclub for more info, and send a message with any questions.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A21
The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson
Making memories
For adults, December is the month of nostalgia, turning back the clock, reaching inwards and dusting off a whole lifetime of memories happy and sad. When I hang that blue plastic snowflake (ca 1950s, Wetaskiwin, Alberta) or the handmade baked-andpainted dough Elvis (ca 1980, Clyde River, PEI), or when I make traditional Swedish specialities like liver and barley or “limpa” rye bread, I revisit my own distinctive history. For children, December is the season of living in a dream world. As a child I spent the month in a trance at the kitchen table, head in hands, studying the Christmas catalogue. Toys toys toys: I wanted them all. I was destined to get underwear, a new skirt and blouse, a novel like Heidi or Treasures of the Snow (wonderful wholesome literature, don’t get me wrong), a book of paper doll cut-outs or a puzzle… but I think I can honestly say that I never received any toys from the Eaton’s catalog. Still, it didn’t hurt to dream. I wasn’t hard-done by. I had my siblings, and we had a pond next to our parsonage where we could skate all winter long. (See painting above; that’s me at left.) And we had perfect Christmases with all the delicious Swedish food any little Prairie girl could want. These are thoughts I want to keep alive, and vintage Christmas ornaments, colored lights, fruitcake and spritz cookies manage to do just that. Something else that jogs my memory is sending Christmas cards. My mother created cards for every occasion, and my parents showered dozens—perhaps hundreds—of Christmas cards on friends and relatives, each envelope requiring (can you believe it?) a twocent stamp. (I may be revealing my age here.) My own family maintains this
tradition. We buy card stock, print up a newly created watercolour painting, glue things together, get busy writing personal notes (the most time-consuming part of the process), buy books of stamps (no 2¢ stamps anymore), and let Canada Post do the rest. So it’s time to make more memories. COVID left us cautious but optimistic, and Open Houses in the Cove are once again on the agenda. How happy I will be to walk into a neighbor’s home without knocking, sit next to friends I don’t see nearly often enough and eat Christmas cookies.
A Discover Charlottetown Christmas Festival Signature Event Proudly supported by the PEI Events Innovation Fund
Maybe there’ll be a Carol Sing outdoors around a wood fire. While sipping hot chocolate with a marshmallow on top, someone will say, “Remember that year when we had thirteen Open Houses, plus the Living Nativity, plus a Christmas Concert, plus a levee?” And I’ll say, “Yes, that was a bit much—but it was fun!” Someone else will chime in, “Remember that creamy squash soup the Culinary Institute used to make for the Living Nativity?” “Yes, and Stefanie’s good Swiss bread.” “Remember Bailey stepdancing at the concert?” “Those kids are all grown up now.” “How time flies.” “Want another cookie?“ “Yes please.” Enjoying one another’s company, looking after one another… spreading joy and peace in our own way… and making memories, one Christmas cookie at a time.
EARLY JANUARY BUZZ DEADLINE
Wednesday, Dec 13
HAPPENING EVERY WEEKEND FROM DEC 1 - DEC 17
LIVE MUSIC • CULINARY EXPERIENCES • LOCAL SHOPPING • VISITS WITH SANTA • OUTDOOR FIRE PITS • STORYTELLING • KIDS CRAFTS • AND SO MUCH MORE! For the full schedule and information please visit: FoundersFoodHall.com
Page A22 The BUZZ December 2023
North Rustico Christmas
The annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Seawalk Park in North Rustico will take place on December 1 from 6:30–8 pm. The evening will include Christmas music, a visit from Santa Claus, and free hot chocolate, robin’s eggs and candy canes. The Seawalk Park Boutiques will be open for shopping. 106 Riverside Dr, North Rustico.
Home decorating contest
The registration deadline for the City of Charlottetown’s Holiday Home Decorating Contest is December 4. Charlottetown residents are invited to participate in this holiday season activity and share in the spirit with their neighbours and family by decorating the outside of their home. Judging will take place during the week of December 11. To register, call 629-4128 or email jedoucetter@charlottetown.ca
Skate with Santa
The inaugural Skate with Santa, followed by puppetry and merriment with Madame Abbey, will take place on December 15 at the Eliyahu Wellness Centre Place des Jeux du Canada Games Place in North Rustico (20 Recreation St). Skate to Christmas music with Santa on Atlantic Canada’s only Olympic-size ice surface from 5:15–6:15 pm. Sip hot chocolate or hot apple cider and decorate a cookie in Mrs. Claus’s kitchen. Afterwards, join Madame Abbey and her puppet friends from 6:30-7:15 pm at the Seawalk Boutiques (24 Harbourview Dr) for music and merriment, including songs, stories and fun.
Family skates
The City of Charlottetown will host two holiday skating events this month. All are invited to join. The family skates will be held at Simmons Sports Centre, 150 North River Rd, on December 3 at 1:50 pm, and at Cody Banks Arena, 58 Maple Ave, on December 10 at 3 pm. For details, visit charlottetown.ca.
Virtual health care workshops
Information sessions on virtual health care and the Maple app will be held at 1 pm on December 6 at the Summerside Rotary Library (57 Central St) and at 10 am on December 12 at the Charlottetown Learning Library (97 Queen St). After the presentation, hands-on assistance with Maple registration will be available for those who are eligible. Bring a device or use one from the library (Charlottetown).
Community Jigsaw Day
Jigsaw puzzle enthusiasts can join fellow puzzle fanatics for a puzzle swap and to work on some community puzzles together at 1 pm on December 9 at the Charlottetown Learning Library Centre. Bring a puzzle to swap and take a newto-you puzzle home. 97 Queen St.
Meditation session
Monks from GEBIS monastery are offering a community meditation session at the Charlottetown Learning Library on
COMMUNITY #2 December 9 from 10–11:30 am. This session is for people who are interested in learning how to generate inner calmness. Participants will be tought how to calm the restless mind and gain more peace and kindness from within. No previous experience is necessary, and meditators will be invited to use the chairs provided. This is a first come, first serve session until capacity. Note that there will be a walking meditation (possibly outdoors). 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Rainbow Youth Club
Members and allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community who are looking for new pals and fun times are welcome to join the PEI Rainbow Youth Club at the Summerside Rotary Library. Each meeting provides youth with the opportunity to participate in youth-led discussions and fun activities, complete with opportunities for creativity and self-discovery. These sessions are led by trained PEERS Alliance staff and volunteers, and include a healthy snack. The Club is open to youth ages 12–18. Youth will not be asked to identify and all are welcome to attend. The next meeting is December 5 at 6 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Montague Community School returns
Montague Community School returns in January. Classes will run on Monday evenings from January 8 to March 11 from 6:30-8:30 pm. Confirmed courses include ukulele, knitting, ESL, Tai Chi, painting, yoga, and more. For details, follow @ montaguecommunityschool on FB.
Victorian Christmas at Beaconsfield
Beaconsfield Historic House is offering an enchanting Victorian Christmas experience this December. Immerse in the house’s decorated rooms and slip back in time to experience the holiday spirit of the 1870s. Activities to look forward to, include: enjoying a live harp concert in the double drawing room; discovering the origins of Christmas customs with the History of Christmas talk; touring the house in its full holiday glory; creating a holiday keepsake to take home; savouring festive treats and hot beverages; and shopping for locally made gifts at the Carriage House craft fairs. Mark the calendar for December 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, and 10. Tickets are available online at peimuseum.ca and in-person at Beaconsfield Historic House. Updates @heritagepei.
Care giver support group
Monthly care giver support group meetings take place on the third Monday of each month at 1 pm in Queen’s County; the last Wednesday of each month at 1:30 pm in East Prince; and on the second Thursday of each month at 6 pm in West Prince. To register, call the Hospice PEI coordinator in Queen’s (368-4095), East
Prince (438-4231) or West Prince (8593949). To learn more about Hospice PEI’s programs and services, or how to get involved, visit hospicepei.ca.
Grief support
Online monthly grief support group meetings are held online via Zoom on the third Thursday of the month at 7 pm. To register, call the Hospice PEI grief coordinator at 330-3857. Telephone-based grief support with hospice trained volunteers is also available. To learn more about Hospice PEI’s programs and services, or how to get involved, visit hospicepei.ca.
Holiday Projection on the Plaza
Holiday Projection on the Plaza continues at the Confederation Centre of the Arts’ Lou MacEachern Upper Plaza (Grafton Street façade). The animated, holiday-themed projection and music show runs nightly from 5–10 pm until January 2.
Let Their Light Shine
Hospice PEI’s 29th annual Let Their Light Shine campaign will run in December at various locations across the Island. To participate, write the name of someone to be remembered (a family member, friend, or pet) on a memory card, hang it in Hospice PEI’s memory forest, and give the gift of a donation. Visit hospicepei.ca/events/let-their-light-shine/ for campaign details and locations.
Living with Loss: Stillborn and Infant Loss Group
Join other families for support at the Stillborn and Infant Loss group. The therapist facilitated grief and loss group sessions run twice a month from 6–8 pm in Charlottetown. A variety of topics explored, including integrating loss in life, navigating social and family dynamics, secondary losses, coping with holidays, post loss family planning, and more. This group is a safe space to connect with other families and process surviving the loss of a baby together. For more info, email jfitzpatrick-hopkin@ihis. org or call 894-2962.
PEI Autistic Adults
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. The website, peiautisticadults. com, has a public blog where members can share their views, a private discussion forum, private chat functionality, and links to their social media. There are weekly meetings via Zoom and the group is currently discussing becoming a non-profit. PEI Autistic Adults was started by an autistic senior and currently has over 70 members ranging from students to seniors. Those who
would like to participate in the meetings but do not wish to interact online, can email peiautisticadults@gmail.com. PEI Autistic Adults is not affiliated with any organization.
Trade HERizons
Trade HERizons starts again on January 22 and will run to April 26. Trade HERizons is a 14-week no-cost 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, the program participants experience hands-on learning opportunities with Holland College, receive training with the Construction Association of PEI, meet mentors, and tour with employers in industry. Visit wnpei.org for details.
Bridge course
Instructor Ray Malone will teach an eight-week bridge course made up of several mini-lessons taken from Barbara Seagram’s book, The Magic of Defense, beginning January 11 at the Irish Cultural Centre in Charlottetown. Possible topics include opening leads, third hand play, unblocking partner’s suit, when not to lead partner’s suit, the ruffing game, second hand play, counting tricks, lead directing doubles, and suit preference signal. The topics covered will be voted on by the registrants. The cost is a sliding scale based on the number of tables. Info/register: 368-8416; ray.teaches. bridge@gmail.com
Brain injury meetings
A brain injury support group, hosted by the Brain Injury Association of PEI, is held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month in Stratford. Meetings take place in the Battery Point room at the Stratford Town Hall. There are outings on occasion. Follow @BrainInjuryPEI on FB. Contact Jo-Ann McInnis (213-1480) or Elton Poole (916-2750) for more info. 234 Shakespeare Dr, Stratford.
Eptek Scavenger Hunts
Visitors are invited to test their skills (and eyesight) with Eptek’s Scavenger Hunts. Try to find all 20 images. Fun for all ages. Follow on FB for upcoming activities. Eptek Art & Culture Centre, 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
Mayor’s New Year’s Levee
Mayor Phillip Brown and members of City Council invite the public to City Hall, 199 Queen St, for the annual New Year’s Levee from 10:30 am–12 noon on January 1, 2024. Visit charlottetown.ca for more details.
Spoons with Santa
Visit Carr’s from 1–3 pm on December 12 for a tour of their Wildlife Centre followed by a lesson on heritage spoons with Santa and his elf, Olivia, and spend some time singing Christmas tunes. The fee includes the tour, a pair of heritage spoons, and a loot bag from Santa. 32 Campbellton Rd, Stanley Bridge.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A23
Talking from Experiences by Ashleigh Tremere
Low key and free
Have you checked out the new Charlottetown Library Learning Centre? I’ll tell ya, it’s beautiful!
Although possibly changing now, I think that libraries and librarians have been grossly misrepresented in pop culture. Were they trying to hide how cool they were from us? While the noise level is generally a quieter din, peaceful overall, there is so much going on, it’s full of activity. There’s video games in the back, computers everywhere, comfy booths full of people studying or occasionally having a little snooze between pages. All sorts of rooms for meetings or holding cool events. Oh, and the Makerspace! It opens at 2 pm so we were a bit ahead for that today, having skedaddled from the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market near noon. But it’s always got some craft or activity set up to do, amongst sewing machines and 3D printers. There’s a keyboard, a hydroponic garden, and little robots. Check it out, it seems to be evolving all the time. The librarians there are super chill, a really good variety of funny, and genuinely excited to help you. Just immaculate vibes overall. The variety of programming is always changing and has something for all interests and ages. Check it out on their socials— which are pretty amusing to follow. When I call the kids off the iPads, so other wee folk can have a turn, we gather our books for the week, grab a game and a couch. It’s nice to be out in a social setting, doing low key activities, for free. And around us people from all walks of life are doing the same. A mother-daughter combo are knitting, teenagers are cracking jokes in a study booth,
ASHLEIGH TREMERE
And not just aesthetically, though that is accurate. How many places are left that cost you nothing to enter, partake in, and let you just be? They don’t even charge late fees anymore you know? What good sports, I’m a big fan. We’re a book-before-bed kind of family and I certainly couldn’t afford to keep my eight year old in graphic novels without the library. When we enter, they always cruise straight to the iPads though. That’s fine, run on, Grandmama and I want some more coffee.
Annual Financial Campaign Please Support Our Goal: $100,000
This year's campaign highlights wraparound care for families. A program where every family member is uniquely supported, with family unity as the goal.
toddlers are working on their first steps. People just going about their day in a calm, clean, safe space. No expectations aside from preserving that. I start to get the feeling that my two youngest are ready to expend some energy after all this casual calm. So we cut our round of Exploding Kittens short and head to get our books “dooted.” A few minutes too late I suppose. The whole thing devolves into them loudly arguing and then wrestling in front of the main desk. I try to take my mortification in stride and the librarian just shrugs. This is the way. All kinds here. If you find yourself looking for a low stakes, yet social Saturday, try the “smoothie market and library day” combo. Remember, both are best enjoyed under the self imposed guise that you have nothing else to hurry yourself off and accomplish.
Meet and Greet Socials PEI Sociable Singles is a non-profit, non-denominational, social group for members ages 50 and over. The group provides the separated, divorced, widowed and unmarried with an opportunity to get out of the house and participate in healthy group and social activities with other singles. Sociable Singles is not a dating club. Meet compatible people who are unattached and in similar circumstances. The group holds Meet and Greet Socials every Tuesday at 7 pm at Hillsborough Hall Community Centre, 199 Patterson Dr, Charlottetown. Info: sociable_singles@yahoo.com
TO LEARN MORE OR TO DONATE VISIT FVPS.CA
Page A24 The BUZZ December 2023
NATURE Judson family land donation Island Nature Trust (INT) has received a significant donation from the Judson family, marking a pivotal moment in their ongoing mission to preserve and protect the natural landscapes of PEI. This generous contribution of the 117acre Judson Salt Marsh Natural Area will expand INT’s existing 182-acre protected Crown Point - Wjikijek Natural Area in Alexandra, reinforcing their commitment to safeguarding these critical ecosystems. What makes this donation truly exceptional is the fact that the original acquisition of Crown Point - Wjikijek Natural Area was made possible through cash donations from Islanders, illustrating the power of collective action. The initial purchase in 2020 was a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving PEI’s unique natural heritage, especially in the face of mounting development pressures near Charlottetown and Stratford. The urgency of securing and preserving natural habitats like Crown Point in the midst of rapid urban expansion cannot be overstated. The Judson family’s decision to donate their land adds a new chapter to the Crown Point conservation story. INT approached the Judson family, recognizing that expanding the protection of this headland aligns with its mission to create a mosaic of interconnected natural areas, ensuring the ecological health of the Island’s landscapes and the well-being of its diverse species. Info: islandnaturetrust.ca
Nature PEI meeting
The Honourable Diane Griffin and Dr. Kathy Martin will be the guest speakers at Nature PEI’s next montly meeting on December 5, which will focus on the birds of Cuba. Diane and Kathy are long-time friends and often travel internationally, observing and photographing wonders of the natural world along the way. Most recently, they travelled to Cuba, home to over 350 bird species, including 27 endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world. Cuba is also a winter home to many species familiar to Islanders (Osprey, Piping Plover). Diane has served at every level of government, most recently representing PEI in the
Senate of Canada (2016–2022). She is the founding executive director of Island Nature Trust (INT) and worked for many years as the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s program manager for PEI. She has served as the chair of the Health PEI board since January 2023. Kathy is an ornithologist who has served as president of the American Ornithological Society and the Society of Canadian ornithologists, and on many national and international committees. She has mentored over 100 students and authored over 250 scientific publications. She is currently a professor in the Forestry Faculty at the University of British Columbia and a research scientist emeritus with Environment and Climate Change Canada. On PEI, Kathy is a member of the Forestry Commission, and a board member of the INT and the Glenaladale Heritage Trust. The meeting starts at 7:30 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. Admission is free and all are welcome to attend. naturepei.ca
Trainor Gathering June 2024 heralds the first gathering of Trainors outside of Ireland, as the clan descends on PEI for a weekend of tours, talks, entertainment and craic. The third biennial International Treinfhir (Trainor) Clan Gathering will take place June 20–23, 2024 at Holland College in Charlottetown and Glenaladale Estate in Tracadie. The first two gatherings were held in County Monaghan, Ireland—the homeland of all Trainors (irrespective of spelling). This area is twinned with PEI, specifically Fort Augustus, Emyvale, and Kelly’s Cross, as many of the clan settled on the Island in the nineteenth century. Special events include tours of the Island, a ceilidh, a night of stories and history offered by prominent historians that capture the essence of Irish emigration, settlement and ancestral successes, a DNA workshop, and a closing banquet at Glenaladale. Pre-register at treinfhirtotrainorpei.com. For more information email trainordalefarms@hotmail.com
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A25
LIBRARIES
The Nature of PEI by Gary Schneider
Snowbirding
FIEP DE BIE
Charlottetown Library Learning Centre programs
Winter is truly a strange season. Some people absolutely adore it, while others flee to warmer climes. Personally, winter is a treasure. I love the beauty of a snowy day, and the stillness of a crisp winter evening. I do understand that it can cause problems for people, but winter has a unique character, a richness that I find in no other season.
seeking out birds in our coldest season. There was the rock wren at North Cape that should have been on the coast of BC. Or standing in the middle of a flock of thousands of snow buntings outside of Montague. Or participating in a Christmas Bird Count where it was too cold and blustery to even get out of the car!
Instead of being all about growth and energy, it is a season of reflection and observation. Though the spring bird migration can be wonderfully overwhelming, winter birds are just as welcome. Perhaps even more so.
Despite some challenging weather, these bird counts are an important part of the history of birding in the province, and across the world. They also provide a glimpse into the future. One day of counting birds tells you nothing except what is around on that specific date. But decades of observations can detect trends, especially in the face of a changing climate.
There is something special about a bird that chooses PEI as a warmer, less harsh place to spend their winter. We’ll often see eruptions of smaller finches and sparrows, everything from pine siskins and white-winged crossbills to American tree sparrows and common redpolls. It can be eerily quiet in the woods, then all of a sudden you can be surrounded by a mixed flock of chickadees, nuthatches, American goldfinches, and dark-eyed juncos. That is always a great experience. East Point, Earnscliffe, Stanley Bridge and Wood Islands are among my favourite winter birding destinations. If there is some open water, there can be thousands of ducks at East Point, plus razorbills and black guillemots. The Earnscliffe area is a great place to see rough-legged hawks, horned larks, and Lapland longspurs. Around Stanley Bridge you can find greater and lesser scaup, red-breasted mergansers, and Bohemian waxwings. And the waters and woodlands around the Wood Islands area can be full of many species of ducks, American robins, woodpeckers, and finches. These are just four of the dozens of great winter birding areas across the province. Thinking of winter causes me to reflect on the many times I have spent
Four Christmas Bird Counts are held in the province each year. Everyone with an interest in birds is welcome to take part, whatever the skill level. The first is on December 16th at East Point, organized by Dwaine Oakley (dwaine.oakley@gmail.com). Next up are the PEI National Park count in Cavendish on December 17th and the Hillsborough Count on the 27th. Dan McAskill (jdmcaskill@pei.sympatico. ca) looks after these two. The final Christmas Bird event of the year is the Montague (actually Three Rivers) count, on December 31st. Scott Sinclair (ssinclairpei@outlook.com) organizes this outing. If you are new to birding, these outings offer a great opportunity to learn from more experienced birders. You don’t need to be shy—even the best birders were novices at one time. Winter birding gives you another excuse to get out and enjoy the season. It doesn’t have to be a long trip—even an observant walk around your neighbourhood might turn up a cardinal or something equally unusual. Why not give it a try.
Community programming continues at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre with free activities for seniors, adults and youth. Some of the many ongoing activities this month include: Tech Help Drop-In on Saturdays (except December 23 and 30) from 10 am–12 pm; Virtual Reality for ages 10+ on Thursdays from 3–5 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am–12 pm; and French Conversation Group for all skill levels ages 12+ on Mondays at 4 pm. Other activities include InclusiCon: A Day of Dice & Diversity at 10 am on December 2 (visit peersalliance.ca for updates); Raspberry Pi: Intro to Coding at 1:30 pm on December 2 (no prior experience needed); Cricut in the Makerspace at the Seniors Café on December 21 at 1 pm; and the Board Game Café at 6 pm on December 27. Please see the arts, film and community notices in this issue of The Buzz for even more activities taking place this month at the Charlottetown Library, 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Summerside Rotary Library community programming
Senior, adult, teen and children’s community programming continues at the Summerside Rotary Library in December
with tech help, workshops, games, crafting activities, film screenings and more. Some of the many upcoming activities include the Seniors Café at 11 am on December 8; and Cards, Crokinole, and Cronies at 2 pm on December 13 and 27. Children’s ongoing programming includes: Wiggle Giggle Read at 9:30 am on Wednesdays; Toddler Time at 9:30 am on Thursdays; Family Storytime at 10:30 am on Thursdays; and Puppet Play on December 2 at 10:30 am. Additional activities for kids include Reindeer Games at 10:30 am on December 9; Authentic Batik Painting at 1 pm on December 9 (registration required); Arts & Crafts: Squeegee Painting at 10:30 am on December 16; Multicultural Storytime & Conversation Hour in partnership with IRSA at 11 am on December 30; and Make Some Noise noise maker creation on December 30–31 during library hours. Teens can take part in Snow Much Fun at 2:30 pm on December 10 and In Stitches at 2:30 pm on December 17. Please see the arts, film and community notices in this issue of The Buzz for even more activities taking place this month at the Summerside Rotary Library, 57 Central St, Summerside.
PEI Public Library Service
PEI Public Libraries offers community programming for all ages—babies, children and families, teens, adults and seniors. Visit the Public Library events calendar at library.pe.ca or follow @PEI Public Library Service on FB.
What’s New at Veseys? Did you know Veseys Seeds is open yearround? Come check out our large and unique assortment of Christmas décor, garden related giftware and get an early start on next seasons gardening supplies. With prices you’ll appreciate and items you can’t find anywhere else, Veseys is a stop you need to make this holiday season! p_Layout
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Page A26 The BUZZ December 2023
BUZZIFIEDS ART SALE BY VISUAL ARTIST HELENE LAROUCHE
I work in multi-media forms: Silkpainting with French dyes, Oil, Acrylic painting, enamel painting. Studio in Blooming Point open by appointment only 902676-2956, silkmermaid@gmail.com
PRIVATE VOICE LESSONS WITH TERESA DOYLE
Lessons for non-classical singers with JUNO nominated recording artist Teresa Doyle. For shy beginners to touring musicians. Contact teresa@teresadoyle.com
EARLY JANUARY BUZZZ DEADLINE
Submissions and advertising booking deadline for the January issue:
Wednesday December 13
MP Charlottetown sean.casey@parl.gc.ca 1-902-566-7770
www.buzzpei.com @buzzpei Editor: Yanik Richards Editor: Michelle Ollerhead Website: Nakeesa Aghdasy Advertising: Adriane Gaudet
Advertising: sales@buzzpei.com Editorial: info@buzzpei.com
Partners: Maggie Lillo (Ruby Square Graphic Design), Carly Martin (Hawthorne House Media)
The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Compensation for errors in advertising copy which are the proven responsibility of the publisher is limited to a maximum of the cost of the placement of the advertisement.
Contributors: Julie Bull, Deirdre Kessler, Frank Ledwell, Stephen B. MacInnis, Takako Morita, JoDee Samuelson, Tara Reeves, Gary Schneider, Ashleigh Tremere
Little Kit Bag Inc., operating as The Buzz, acknowledges that we are located on and operate on Mi’kma’ki, the traditional unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people who have lived here for many thousands of years, and who continue to live here.
Sean Casey
ISSUE# 360 • DECEMBER 2023
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:
(left): Butt Warmer, watercolor on paper 8”x 12”; (right): Toasty, watercolor on paper 8”x 12” by Stephen B. MacInnis. Stephen B. MacInnis is a visual artist from Charlottetown. Primarily a painter, his work also explores drawing, collage and mixed media. For the past several years Stephen has been working on a long-term project entitled Long Series, a series of over 1,300, 12×12 inch mixed media paintings—with plans to complete 10,000 works in this series. He also does custom framing. See more of Stephen’s work on Instagram @stephenmacinnis
Best Wishes! from The Buzz
The BUZZ December 2023 Page A27
FOOD & DRINK Mayor & Council Seniors Holiday Tea & Social
The City of Charlottetown will host the Mayor & Council Seniors Holiday Tea & Social on December 9 from 2–4 pm at Jack Blanchard Hall. Visit charlottetown. ca for more details. 7 Pond St.
Kirk Christmas Cream Tea
Christmas Cream Tea will be held on December 16 from 3–4:30 pm at St James Presbyterian (The Kirk). Guests will enjoy premium tea served at their table in fine china, along with scones, preserves, lemon curd, Devonshire cream and assorted sweets. There will be a door prize and a quilt raffle draw. Visit fundraiser.support/Kirk2023 to purchase tickets. The Kirk is located at 35 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown.
Solstice Walk food workshops
The fourth edition of the River Clyde Solstice Walk in New Glasgow returns on December 21 from 6–8 pm. The admission-by-donation community event
will feature a procession of illuminated lanterns, outdoor performances, food and bonfires to light up the darkest day of the year. Advance registration is required. A series of free public workshops for all ages will be offered leading up to the Solstice Walk, including food workshops that explore diverse cultures through cooking and sharing food. A new cooking workshop led by Jamaican foodie Dershell Walker will take place on December 2 from 11 am–1 pm at The Mill. Iranian-born artist Monelli Rahmatian will return to lead a Persian cooking workshop on December 17 from 10 am–1 pm at The Mill. Workshop spots are limited. Visit riverclydepageant.com/ solstice-walk to reserve for workshops and to register for the Solstice Walk.
Charlottetown Farmers’ Market
The market is open weekly on Saturdays from 9 am–2 pm year-round. Local farmers, crafters, artisans and hot food vendors sell local, organic produce, fish, meats, baked goods, preserves, roasted coffee, specialty teas and more. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown.
Summerside Farmers’ Market
Find local produce, baked goods, meat, fish, prepared food, cheese, artisans and more. Open weekly on Saturdays from 9 am–1 pm. 250 Water St, Summerside.
Rediscover
Page A28 The BUZZ December 2023
ur in yo day ble urt up oli ila Co ! ck H va n Pi EE . A tio OW e a FR uid der s N G fe re ift on sto G l C all al M
the Magic of Shopping Local This Holiday Season
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EPEKWITK | PEI’S GUIDE TO WHAT’S GOING ON
Performance December 2023 Section B
Brothers MacPhee (and friends), PEI Brewing Company (photo: Buzz)
GIVE THE GIFT OF THE ARTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.
BUY 50 $
JUNE 19 - AUGUST 31 | S O B E Y F A M I L Y T H E A T R E
GET 10 $
MORE Buy a $50 gift certificate at Confederation Centre of the Arts box office or by phone and get an additional $10.
JUNE 25 - SEPTEMBER 21 | S O B E Y F A M I LY T H E A T R E
Enjoy musicals, comedy, concerts, arts education, and more.
NOVEMBER 25 UNTIL DECEMBER 23 Box Office: 1 800 565 0278 confederationcentre.com
Page B2 The BUZZ December 2023
Watermark Theatre
The Gift of Magi
Watermark Theatre’s new original Christmas production, The Gift of The Magi and other festive stories to warm the heart by Alan Kinsella and Robert Tsonos, will be on stage at the theatre in North Rustico this month. The new play is directed by Alan Kinsella with set and costume design by Kelly Caseley, and sound and lighting design by Pat Caron. The production stars actors Jacob Hemphill and Rebecca Parent. The Gift of the Magi, a story by O. Henry, is one of several holiday stories that will be adapted for the stage in this festive play for the whole family. The classic tale of a young husband and wife dealing with the challenge of buying secret Christmas gifts for each other with very little money is just one of the many stories presented. The production is full of songs, Christmas carols, laughter and well-known tales of the season. Kinsella returns to the Watermark Theatre where he directed Blithe Spirit in 2016. Having directed over 100 productions in Ireland, Kinsella moved to Canada in 2013, and has multiple directing credits in Toronto, ON. He has written family shows that have toured China, Jamaica, Qatar, Singapore, Oman and Sharjah, and in 2017, he directed productions of Aladdin and Fame at the Madinat Theatre Dubai. He is currently the artistic director of the discovery program at Markham Theatre. Jacob Hemphill made his Watermark Theatre debut in 2018. He is an actor, musician, and producer born and raised on PEI. Alongside Melissa MacKenzie and Rebecca Parent, he is a co-founder of the Island theatre company, Kitbag Theatre. Hemphill is also the creator of The Songs of Johnny & June, an energetic cabaret, which was part of The Charlottetown Festival, 2023. PEI theatre maker Rebecca Parent is a co-founder of the PEI indie company Kitbag Theatre and bilingual coordinator of Ontario-based social arts organization Sheatre. Parent was part of the acting company for six seasons at Watermark, and the director for A
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
New original Christmas production in North Rustico
(top): Actors Rebecca Parent and Jacob Hemphill; (bottom): Director Alan Kinsella
Christmas Carol and The Drawer Boy (Watermark Theatre). She has many more acting and directing credits, including her role as Anne Shirley in Anne & Gilbert–The Musical and directing The Songs of Johnny & June. Evening performances of The Gift of the Magi will run December 13–16 and December 21–23 at 7:30 pm, with matinee performances on December 16 and 23 at 1 pm. Tickets for can be purchased via phone at 963-3963 and online at locarius.io/organizations/26.
ACT for Rent Auditions—Dec 2 & 3 ACT (a community theatre) is bringing the musical Rent to Island stages in the spring of 2024. Written and composed by Jonathan Larson, Rent is a modern adaptation of Puccini’s opera, La Bohème. It portrays a group of artists and friends struggling to survive in the East Village of New York City during the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The story revolves around themes of love, friendship, creativity, poverty, addiction and the dire need for affordable housing, all themes prevalent in Charlottetown today. Auditions for ages 18+ will be held on December 2 and 3 in Charlottetown. Email actpei.stagemanagement@gmail. com to schedule an audition or for more information.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B3
Confederation Centre of the Arts
9 l..!1 THEATRE 02 888 2500 • HARBOURFRONT
-
Charlottetown Festival
�
our Theatre, Your Theatre.
HARBOURFRONTTHEATRE.COM
LOUISE VESSEY
Anne Shirley and Frankie Valli to headline 2024 season
Emma Rudy, Kelsey Verzotti, and Justin Eddy in Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ (2022)
As Confederation Centre of the Arts celebrates 60 years in 2024, it will present two legendary musicals as part of The Charlottetown Festival. Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ and Jersey Boys will play at Sobey Family Theatre, the Centre’s main stage this summer. Brazier has directed the musical many times in his tenure at the Centre but will hand the baton to Robin Calvert next year. Calvert has a 20-year history with the Festival; she first came to Charlottetown as a dancer in Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ and later became the production’s choreographer. She also directed the 2023 Festival show I’m Every Woman. “Robin has shown passion, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to this musical, and we are honoured to have her leadership and creativity in the role of director and choreographer,” says Adam Brazier, the Centre’s artistic director of performing arts. Actors Kelsey Verzotti and Laurie Murdoch, who played Anne Shirley and Matthew Cuthbert in the 2022 Festival production, will reprise their roles. The 2024 presentation of Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ coincides with 150th birthday celebrations for author Lucy Maud Montgomery. Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ runs from June 19–August 31, 2024. Playing alongside Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ is the wildly popular jukebox musical Jersey Boys, which tells the rags-to-riches story of the 1960s rock and roll group Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. As they rise to stardom, the lifelong friends celebrate the highs and endure the lows that come with fame. The musical features several hit songs from the group, including “Sherry,” “Beggin’,” and “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night).” Jersey Boys delighted audiences on Broadway and London’s West End,
and has been honoured with four Tony Awards, including Best Musical; the Olivier Award for Best New Musical; and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album. “Jersey Boys is an international musical phenomenon that has played around the world, and we are excited to stage the first Atlantic Canadian production,” says Brazier, who will direct the show. Jersey Boys runs from June 25– September 21, 2024. Tickets for The 2024 Charlottetown Festival are on sale now and can be purchased at confederationcentre. com, via phone at 1-800-565-0278, or in person at the Centre’s box office. The 2024 Charlottetown Festival will also feature shows at The Mack and Outdoor Amphitheatre, to be announced at a later date.
Reindeer Games Feast Holiday Dinner Theatres Feast Dinner Theatres’ new production, PEI Famous: Reindeer Games continues on select dates until December 19 at Rodd Charlottetown and Brothers 2 in Summerside. The holiday dinner theatre combines laughs with an old-fashioned Christmas buffet of turkey, ham, all the trimmings and dessert. PEI Famous: Reindeer Games is written by Island comedian Justin Shaw, with music led by Island musician Ben Aiken. feastdinnertheatres.com
Laila Biali
Wintersongs & Holida� Classics
FRI 1 DEC
Lennie Gallant
The Innkeeper's Christmas
SAT 2 DEC
Dear Buzz readers, The January issue of The Buzz will be on the street January 2 It will be available for early reading on Dec 29 at buzzpei.com and issuu.com/buzzpei
Season’s Greetings from Presented by Points East Coastal Drive Janruary 26th - 28th, 2024
Tickets available at PointEastCoastalDrive.com
One Man Christmas Carol Rob MacLean takes over lead for all 29 roles The Island Theatre Festival presents One Man Christmas Carol, starring Rob MacLean as all 29 characters in the classic holiday show A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Wade Lynch was initially cast in the lead but had to withdraw. The role of Scrooge, and all other characters, will now be portrayed by seasoned Island actor, Rob MacLean. MacLean has been working in theatre professionally since 1987. With his friends Rob MacDonald, Ed Rashed and Matt Rainey, MacLean perpetrated a lot of nonsense in the improv group, ForPlay. In addition to acting, he was the artistic director of TheatrePEI for a number of years. More recently he has collaborated with his wife Melissa Mullen in writing adaptations and plays. MacLean will channel all the spirits and lessons learned over his career to embody the characters in A Christmas Carol—transforming from a shaken Scrooge to Undertaker’s Man, Tiny Tim, and three or four good-humoured fellows, among others. Produced by Campbell Webster Entertainment, this one-man, onehour show will be performed in local
SUBMITTED
Page B4 The BUZZ December 2023
Actor Rob MacLean
theatres across the Island, including: Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown on December 12, 13, 14 and 17 at 7:30 pm; Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on December 15 at 7:30 pm and December 16 at 1 pm; and Souris Show Hall on December 16 at 7:30 pm and December 17 at 1 pm. For tickets, call 1-877-566-3346.
Watermark summer 2024 Programming announced for upcoming season Watermark Theatre in North Rustico recently announced its plays for summer 2024. The theatre will produce Canadian playwright Bernard Slade’s hilarious romantic comedy Same Time, Next Year and the stage version of the Stephen King thriller Misery adapted by William Goldman. “Two great plays,” says Artistic Director Robert Tsonos, “that I’m sure our audiences are going to love. Both are highly entertaining but also say a lot about the world. Same Time, Next Year has strong opinions about love, sex, and relationships. While Misery delves into the role of art in society, fan culture, and obsession.” A one-night stand turns into a quarter-century affair in Same Time, Next Year, one of the most popular romantic comedies of all time. The Tony award-winning play follows George and Doris’ clandestine weekend rendezvous over the course of 25 years. The starry-eyed lovers meet for an annual getaway of romance, honesty, and hilarity against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world. Same
Time, Next Year will run from June 25– August 31, 2024. In Misery, true life becomes stranger than fiction when an acclaimed romance novelist wakes up in the home of his “Number One Fan.” Rescued from a wintery car crash, Paul Sheldon finds himself incapacitated in the secluded home of Annie Wilkes, a seemingly kind nurse. When events take a nightmarish turn, the injured Paul realizes Annie has no intention of letting him leave. This spine-tingling stage adaptation traps the audience in the room with Paul as he must outsmart Annie if he hopes to escape. Based on Stephen King’s best-selling novel, the tense cat-and-mouse game is gripping to the very end. Misery will run from July 5– August 30, 2024. Rounding out the summer programming, the Watermark Music Series will return with Island musical artists interpreting classic composers. Four and six pack season passes are available now at 963-3963 and locarius. io/organizations/26.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B5
ARTS EDUCATION
@ THE CENTRE
WORKSHOPS and CLASSES
REGISTER TODAY For information or to register visit confederationcentre.com/artseducation Phone: 902-628-6134 email: artseducation@confederationcentre.com
WORKSHOP SERIES
MAKING DANCES (The art and fun of choreography)
JANUARY 5 AND 19, 6 P.M. | STUDIO 2 | INSTRUCTOR - JULIA SAUVE Making Dances will explore the art of constructing a dance from idea to process to finished piece.
AFRO CONTEMPORARY
JANUARY 12, 7 P.M. | STUDIO 2 | INSTRUCTOR - REEQUAL SMITH Afro-funk celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Africa while infusing it with the groove and rhythm of funk music, resulting in a dynamic and captivating performance.
EXPLORING VISUAL ARTS CLASSES REGISTER TODAY
NEW CLASSES BEGIN JANUARY 13 | SCHURMAN FAMILY STUDIO Through fun exercises and lessons, students will develop their visual literacy and technical abilities. Activities will be supplemented by gallery visits where students will explore a range of contemporary and historical artworks.
dance umbrella
REGISTRATION FOR WINTER SEMESTER OPENS IN JANUARY
UPCOMING SHOWS S I N G I N G IIS SINGING SM MY Y
SPONSORED BY
SUPERPOWER SUPERPOWER
SPONSORED BY
CONFEDERATION CENTRE YOUTH CHORUS DEC. 09 THE MACK
20
SPONSORED BY
SPONSORED BY
MATT ANDERSEN HOLIDAY SHOW DEC. 14 SOBEY FAMILY THEATRE
THE EAST POINTERS DEC. 16 SOBEY FAMILY THEATRE
SPONSORED BY
23 24
SPONSORED BY
LENNIE GALLANT THE INNKEEPER’S CHRISTMAS DEC. 21 SOBEY FAMILY THEATRE
HARLEM GOSPEL CHOIR
THE PACK DRUMLINE
JAN. 23 SOBEY FAMILY THEATRE
FEB. 01 SOBEY FAMILY THEATRE
SEE THE FULL SEASON & GET TICKETS TODAY 1 800 565 0278 or confederationcentre.com/liveatthecentre
Dance workshop for Shabe Yalda
The fourth edition of the River Clyde Solstice Walk in New Glasgow returns December 21 from 6–8 pm. The admission-by-donation community event will feature a procession of illuminated lanterns, outdoor performances, food and bonfires to light up the darkest day of the year. Advance registration is required. A series of free public workshops for all ages will be offered leading up to the Solstice Walk. Iranian-born artist Monelli Rahmatian returns to lead a dance workshop for Shabe Yalda, the Persian celebration of the Solstice, in Charlottetown on December 8. Workshop spots are limited. Visit riverclydepageant.com/solstice-walk to reserve for workshops and to register for the Solstice Walk.
DownStreet dance classes
Downstreet Dance Studio is a full nonprofit studio offering a variety of classes for adults (18+) throughout the year. There are classes for couples dancing and solo dancing, and a partner is not needed to participate. Upcoming classes in December include: Zumba on Mondays at 5 pm (4, 11, 18); Bellydancing on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm (5, 12, 19) and Intro to 1940’s Swing at 7:30 pm (5, 12); Argentine Tango on Wednesdays from 5:30–7 pm (13, 20, 27) and ConfiDANCE at 8:30 pm (6, 13, 20, 27); Salsa 2 on Thursdays at 5:30 pm (7) and Burlesque at 7:30 pm (7, 14); West Coast Swing Level 1 on Saturdays at 5:30 pm (2, 9, 16, 23, 30) and Beginner West Coast Swing at 7 pm (2, 9, 16, 23, 30); Salsa Rueda on Sundays at 6 pm (3, 10, 17). Drop-in rates, class block pricing and 11-class dance card options (which are shareable between two or more people) Visit downstreetdance.com and follow on FB and IG for updates.
Social Dance at DownStreet DownStreet Dance Studio hosts a social dance on the third Saturday of each month from 8–10 pm. Social dances are an opportunity to practice the skills and moves learned in class and to see what else the dance world has to offer. There are a variety of styles, including West coast swing, foxtrot, waltz, lindy hop,
Snow White Two performances in two theatres—Dec 29
Making Dances workshops
Registration is open for arts education workshops and classes at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. The upcoming workshop series includes Making Dances, the art and fun of choreography with instructor Julia Sauve on January 5 and 19 at 6 pm in Studio 2. Making Dances will explore the art of constructing a dance from idea to process to finished piece. Info/register: 628-6134; artseducation@confederationcentre.com; confederationcentre.com/artseducation
Afro Contemporary dance workshop
Registration is open for arts education workshops and classes at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. The upcoming workshop series includes Afro Contemporary with instructor Reequal Smith on January 12 at 7 pm in Studio 2. Afro-funk celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Africa while infusing it with the groove and rhythm of funk music, resulting in a dynamic and captivating performance. Info/register: 628-6134; artseducation@confederationcentre.com; confederationcentre.com/artseducation
Volunteer at DownStreet
DownStreet Dance Studio is a full nonprofit studio offering a variety of classes for adults ages 18+ year round, and volunteers are needed to help keep things running smoothly. The studio’s mission is to create an inclusive and active community through a variety of cultural and social dancing practices. Volunteers are asked to run the front desk, greet those who come in, make sure everyone has signed up and paid for class, and help with basic tidying up when needed. Once everyone is signed in, volunteers are welcome to join the class for free. These volunteer hours can go towards credit hours for different volunteer programs. The next volunteer meeting is December 5 at 5:30 pm at the studio, located at 101 Grafton St, second floor, Charlottetown. Contact downstreetdance@gmail.com for more information.
SUBMITTED
DANCING
salsa, and more. All levels and styles of dance are welcome. The next dance will be on December 16. See what the studio is about, check out the funky lights and music, and meet some local dance enthusiasts. 101 Grafton St, second floor, Charlottetown.
Dufflebag Theatre’s Snow White will be on stage at two locations on December 29 with a matinee performance at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside
at 2 pm, followed by an evening performance at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown at 6 pm. The Queen has always been the “fairest in the land.” Her magic mirror tells her so. But when the Queen hears that Snow White has surpassed her, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get rid of her… forever. Fortunately, Snow White escapes into the deep dark woods, where she chances on a tiny cottage. Little does she know that the mystical creatures living there will help save her. DuffleBag Theatre presents hilarious adaptations of fairy tales and classic stories starring members of the audience in the main parts. The result is an interactive and unique experience for all. Since 1992, the acclaimed touring act has traveled the globe. On December 29, they will bring to life this classic tale with hapless huntsmen, bad apples, and people with big hearts and short tempers. harbourfronttheatre.com kingsplayhouse.com
Dot and Ada Back with their version of A Christmas Carol—Dec 9 & 10 Dot and Ada are at it again—only this time they are doing their version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Written and directed by Jonah Anderson, performances take place at 7:30 pm on December 9 and 10 at St Peter’s Circle Club. When Dot’s granddaughter Molly gets food poisoning on the day of the show, there are suddenly a lot of roles that need to be filled. With no time left to rehearse and little preparation, Dot, Ada, Frank and Josh must do their best to get through A Christmas Carol. With hilarious hijinx, many misunderstandings, and never-ending nincompoopery, they may make it through yet. The show stars Claudette Anderson
SUBMITTED
Page B6 The BUZZ December 2023
Paul Hopkins, Claudette Anderson and April MacCormack
as Ada, April MacCormack as Dot, Paul Hopkins as Frank, and Jonah Anderson as Josh. Tickets are cash only at the door, which opens at 7 pm. St Peter’s Circle Club is located at 1917 Cardigan Road in St Peter’s Bay.
Bonshaw Young Players Drama classes Bonshaw Young Players drama classes will resume on Saturday mornings from 10:30 am–12:30 pm beginning January 20 at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. Sessions will emphasize the triple threats of song, dance and improv drama, and will include a workshop on comedy. Open to ages 6–16. Spaces are limited. It is necessary to pre-register by contacting Ruth Lacey at rlacey688@ gmail.com or 675-4282.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B7
Confederation Centre of the Arts
LIVE @ the Centre
Little Women Musical at Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre Little Women–The Broadway Musical returns to the College of Piping’s Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside with two performances on December 3, at 2 pm and 7 pm. Travel back to Concord, New England in the 1800s and share the lives of four beautiful and energetic girls, the March sisters. Based on Louisa May Alcott’s endearing novel, Little Women, this Broadway musical
has entertained audiences since 2005. Using Victorian era costumes and designs, the musical will bring the audience back to a simpler time when family was the glue that held everyone together. Cheer on Jo March as she navigates growing up and trying to have a career as a famous writer and keep her family together; a seemingly impossible task. Supported by an orchestra of 12 professional musicians, the score for Little Women is a concert by itself with sweet melodies of strings, woodwinds, and brass harmonizing with the voices of the actors. Visit collegeofpiping.com to purchase tickets.
DARRELL THERIAULT
The holiday spirit is in full swing at Confederation Centre of the Arts this month with music and dance. The Centre’s dance umbrella program will perform The Nutcracker in partnership with the PEI Symphony Orchestra at the Sobey Family Theatre on December 2. This beloved holiday show is a reimagined telling of the classic story, and features music and whimsical elements that will delight the whole family. Confederation Centre Youth Chorus will perform at The Mack on December 9 with Singing is My Superpower. The show has seasonal themes of harvest and wintertime with songs of empowerment, inviting people to discover their own power to do good in the world. There will also be a string of performances from Maritime favourites at the Sobey Family Theatre. Matt Andersen performs his holiday show on December 14. In his own Blues musician Matt Andersen (top) and The words, “I’ll bring some Nutcracker performed by dance umbrella in 2021 friends along to join in on the fun. We’ll play a mix of holiday returns with his Christmas show on tunes and originals to warm us up.” December 21. The Innkeeper’s Christmas The East Pointers return on is full of traditional and original December 16 with music from their Christmas songs, tales, laughs, and a new EP. The show will feature melodic, few surprises that will put the audience in a Yuletide state of mind. nostalgia-flared, folk experimental pop Tickets for all performances are on with the same driving trad hooks for sale now and can be purchased online which the band has become known at confederationcentre.com, via phone and revered. at 1-800-565-0278, or in person at the To wrap up the holiday season, Centre’s box office. Island music legend Lennie Gallant
ROBERT GEORGEFF
The East Pointers, Lennie Gallant, Matt Andersen and more
Page B8 The BUZZ December 2023
PERFORMANCE music, theatre, dance, comedy…
Mondays | 8 pm
Rat Tales Comedy Night Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Dec 1 | 7:30 pm
Laila Biali: Wintersongs & Holiday Classics With Jeff Goodspeed and members of Atlantic String Machine. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 1 | 8 pm
PonyBoat Slay Ride Drag performances by Vera Getty, Nova Gyna, Tori Nylon, Amour Love, and Molly Pocket. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 1–3
Patsy Christmas
Music at The Manse, Marshfield
Dec 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 | 8 pm
Harmony House Holiday Kitchen Party Feat. Joce Reyome, Trevor Grant, Alicia Toner, Carlie Howell, Brielle Ansems and Mike Ross. Harmony House, Hunter River
Dec 2 | 2 pm, 7:30 pm
dance umbrella: The Nutcracker
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 2 | 7:30 pm
Lennie Gallant: The Innkeeper’s Christmas
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 2 | 8 pm
Chaisson Family Christmas Concert
The Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris
Dec 2 | 8 pm
Tip Er Back Christmas Concert Irish Cultural Centre, Charlottetown
Dec 2–3 | 7:30 pm
New Glasgow Christmas Choir: A Not So Perfect Christmas
New Glasgow Christian, New Glasgow
Dec 3 | 1 pm
Dec 3 | 2 pm
Fiddlers’ Sons Christmas Concert
Park Royal United, Charlottetown
Dec 3 | 2 pm
Island Jubilee: Lester MacPherson Appreciation
Dec 6 | 7 pm
Rejoice! Christmas in Song
St. Dunstan’s Basilica, Charlottetown
Dec 6 | 7:30 pm
Bits & Bites Comedy Night Feat. Ryan Gallant and Shawn Hogan with host Tanya Nicolle. bar1911, Charlottetown
Dec 6 | 7 pm
The Dirty Nil With Like A Motorcycle, Diner Drugs and Knull. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 6 | 8 pm
Dec 3 | 2 pm, 7 pm
Feat. Cedric Newman and Chris Quigley with host Katherine Cairns. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Little Women
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 3 | 2:30 pm
Charlottetown Legion Choir: Maybe This Christmas St. Paul’s Anglican, Charlottetown
Dec 3 | 2:30 pm
A Phase II Christmas: Santa Loves to Rock n’ Roll West River United, Cornwall
Blazing Saddles tour
Dec 7 | 7:30 pm
UPEI Recital Series: UPEI Choral Ensembles
Dr. Steel Recital Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 7 | 8 pm
Island Jazz feat. Holland College SOPA Students Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Dec 8 | 7 pm
Dec 3 | 6 pm
24STRONG: Holiday Recital
Festival des Fêtes: Chad Matthews
Dec 8 | 7:30 pm
Village musical acadien, Abram-Village
Dec 3 | 7 pm
The Sounds of Christmas Kirk Neville, Bonnie LaFrance and friends. Central Queens United, Hunter River
Dec 3 | 7 pm
Dino & The Harmonies Christmas
With special guest Garth Proude. Winsloe United, Winsloe
Dec 5 | 6 pm
Georgetown Elementary School Choir recital Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 5 | 7:30 pm
UPEI Recital Series: UPEI Jazz and Popular Music Ensemble Dr. Steel Recital Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 5 | 8 pm
Chrismas with the Rowdymen Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
An Acoustic Christmas
Dec 6
Matinee feat. Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
With special guests The Blue Stones. Eastlink Centre, Charlottetown
The Glorious Sons
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
The PEI String Collective: Voices of Prince Edward Island St. Paul’s, Charlottetown
Dec 8–9 | 7:30 pm
Fandango at Christmas: The Singing Christmas Tree Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 9 | 3 pm
Confederation Centre Youth Chorus: Singing is My Superpower Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 9 | 7:30 pm
Harmonia Youth Choirs: Glow Featuring guest performance with Sirens. Park Royal United, Charlottetown
Dec 9 | 7:30 pm
The Island Choral Society: Bach Magnificat St. Paul’s, Charlottetown
Dec 9–10 | 7:30 pm
Dot and Ada do A Christmas Carol St Peter’s Circle Club, St Peter’s Bay
Dec 10 | 2 pm, 7 pm
A Joyful Sound: We Need A Little Christmas 2 pm: St. Mary’s, Souris 7 pm: Hillcrest United, Montague
Dec 10 | 2 pm
Student Christmas Recital
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 10 | 2 pm
Festival des Fêtes: Josée Boudreau & Le Groupe Maz Village musical acadien, Abram-Village
Dec 10 | 2 pm
Four Hearts and the Jack Christmas Ceilidh Winsloe United, Winsloe
Dec 10 | 2:30 pm
Charlottetown Legion Choir: Maybe This Christmas With Georgetown Elementary School band and choral students. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 10 | 2:30 pm
Stratford Community Choir: Songs of the Season Spring Park United, Charlottetown
Dec 10 | 3 pm
Summerside Community Choir: Star-Led and Wonder Bound Trinity United, Summerside
Dec 10 | 6:30 pm
Brown Sisters Christmas Concert
Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 12 | 7:30 pm
A Classic Christmas with Lisa Brokop Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 12 | 8 pm
Holland College SoPA: Rock & Country Night Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 12–14, 17 | 7:30 pm
A Christmas Carol
Starring Rob MacLean. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 13–16 | 7:30 pm, Dec 16 | 1 pm
The Gift of the Magi
Watermark Theatre, North Rustico
…continued on page B12
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B9
Christmas Drag Show
PonyBoat Slay Ride Holiday drag show—Dec 1
Maritime talent at Beaconsfield Carriage House—Dec 16
SUBMITTED
Deck the halls and slay the night at the PonyBoat Social Club Slay Ride Holiday Drag Show on December 1 at 8 pm. Doors open at 7 pm. Rock the boat to some holiday-inspired drag with performances by Vera Getty, Nova Gyna, Tori Nylon, Amour Love, and Molly Pocket. This is a 19+ event. Tickets are available at ponyboat.ca.
Drag talent from across the Maritimes will be showcased at Beaconsfield‘s Carriage House in Charlottetown on December 16 at the Nightmare Before Christmas Drag Show. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Showtime is 7 pm. Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year filled with happiness and joy, but can’t Christmas be a nightmare? Join host BILF with a cast that includes Halifax’s Anna Mona Pia, Fredericton’s Barb Wire, and PEI’s FILF and Monica Darling for drag performances and prizes. Tickets available at eventbrite.ca.
Haus of Zhoosh Christmas Cabaret at Trailside— Dec 16 Join Haus of Zhoosh at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on December 16 for an evening of holiday drag, live vocals and a surprise visit from Santa. The evening will feature performances by Zsa Zsa Zhoosh, Vera Getty and Demona Deville, with live music by Rachael Lister and Brady Cudmore. Doors open at 6 pm; show starts at 7 pm. Tickets available at trailside.ca.
Page B10 The BUZZ December 2023
Home for the Holidays FRIDAY DECEMBER 15
Confederation Centre
Tickets: confederationcentre.com or (902)566-1267 or 1(800)-565-0278
Comedian and storyteller Justin Shaw returns to PEI for a one-night-only comedy show, Home for the Holidays, at Lone Oak Brewing in BordenCarleton on December 15. Originally from Cardigan, PEI, Shaw has been featured on Just For Laughs Toronto, Mike Birbiglia’s Working It Out comedy show, opened for Fortune Feimster, and tours regularly with Yuk Yuks across Ontario. Development of his solo show The 70 Mile Yard Sale has been featured on his TV series Tales from Island Boy, streaming now on Bell FibeTV1. Shaw’s debut comedy album Human
PJ THE MARKETING GUY
Comedian Justin Shaw at Lone Oak Brewing—Dec 15
Comedian Justin Shaw
Money showcases his down-home yet outrageous sense of humour, and can be heard on Just For Laughs Canada on Sirius XM. Doors open at 7 pm. Showtime is 8 pm. Enjoy happy hour prices that run until the start of show and ring in the holiday season with a laugh. Tickets: justinshawmedy.com
Kings Playhouse Christmas Join Patrick Ledwell and Mark Haines at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on the afternoon of December 17 for a high-spirited matinee packed high with Christmas songs and stories. The holiday-themed review, which is full of recollections, melodies and Christmas mishaps, is the duo’s final show of the season. “I am just hopping with yuletide anticipation,” says Mark Haines. “I will be tuning the festive fiddle for some great Christmas classics. Bring your best singing voices.” Patrick Ledwell will perform comic routines that explore a range of helpful seasonal topics, such as how to finish your shopping on Kijiji or how to make
Mark Haines (left) and Patrick Ledwell
the Christmas nativity out of Plasticine. The one-afternoon-only show starts at 2 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at kingsplayhouse.com or by phone at 652-2053.
Bits & Bites Comedy Night bar1911—Dec 6 This holiday season, join host Tanya Nicolle with Ryan Gallant and Shawn Hogan for Bits & Bites Comedy Night on December 6 at bar1911 in Charlottetown. Headliner Shawn Hogan has been seen at the Just for Laughs festival, the Halifax Comedy Festival, and heard on CBC’s Laugh Out Loud.
SUBMITTED
A Brookes Diamond Production
PIXBYLORNE
Ledwell and Haines final show of the season—Dec 17 PRODUCTIONS
Comedian Shawn Hogan
Doors at 6:30 pm. Showtime is 7:30 pm. Tickets available at bar1911.com/ events.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B11
Blazing Saddles tour
TYLER WARREN ELLIS
CHRIS QUIGLEY BY STEPHEN ELLIOT
Cedric Newman and Chris Quigley at Trailside—Dec 6
(left–right): Katherine Cairns, Chris Quigley and Cedric Newman
Two of Canada’s top comics, Cedric Newman and Chris Quigley, are bringing their Blazing Saddles tour to Charlottetown. Hosted by local comedian Katherine Cairns, the show will be on stage at Trailside Music Hall on December 6 at 8 pm. Jamaican-born comedian Cedric Newman has been performing stand-up comedy coast-to-coast and selling out venues for over 20 years. He has performed on television for CBC’s Halifax Comedy Festival, and he competed with his son on CTV’s Amazing Race Canada. Chris Quigley has worked as a professional stand-up comedian across the country for over 30 years, delighting
audiences and selling out shows from clubs to festivals. He has also appeared on CTV’s Comedy Now. Katherine Cairns got her start in stand-up in 2019. Since then she has opened for professional comedians including Patrick Ledwell, Mike Wilmot, Tim Nutt, and Nathan MacIntosh. She has been nominated twice for CBC’s Hubcap Amateur Competition, showcased twice for Just For Laughs, and has twice written for the Debaters (she has a thing about the number two). Most recently, she appeared as James Mullinger’s wife in the Bell Fibe sitcom Brit Out Of Water. Tickets for the Charlottetown show can be purchased online at trailside.ca.
S I N G I N G IIS SINGING SM MY Y
SUPERPOWER SUPERPOWER
YOUTH CHORUS
CONFEDERATION CENTRE OF THE ARTS
SPONSORED BY
DECEMBER 9 • 3PM •
Come sing with us!
Join a Confederation Centre of the Arts choir, no audition necessary. Try it out by attending a rehearsal in January, 2024. For registration & rehearsal info visit
confederationcentre.com/choral-music
Page B12 The BUZZ December 2023
PERFORMANCE music, theatre, dance, comedy… …continued from page B8 Dec 14 | 7 pm
All Spruced Up Feat. Three Oaks High School Music Department. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 14 | 7:30 pm
Matt Andersen Holiday Show Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 14 | 7:30 pm
Holland College SoPA: Celtic and Acadian Concert The Guild, Charlottetown
Dec 14 | 8 pm
Island Jazz Christmas with Kelley Mooney Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Dec 14 | 8 pm
The Hounds
Tribute to Tyler Childers. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 15 | 7 pm
An Acoustic Christmas
Dec 16 | 7 pm
Nightmare Before Christmas Drag Show Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown
Dec 16 | 7 pm
Haus of Zhoosh: A Very Christmas Cabaret Feat. Zsa Zsa Zhoosh, Vera Getty, Demona Deville. Live music by Rachael Lister and Brady Cudmore. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 16 | 7:30 pm
The East Pointers
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 16 | 7:30 pm, Dec 17 | 1 pm
A Christmas Carol
Starring Rob MacLean. Souris Show Hall, Souris
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 15 | 8 pm
Comedian Justin Shaw
Lone Oak Brewing, Borden-Carleton
Dec 15 | 8 pm
Sarah Hagen: Night Music St. Paul’s, Charlottetown
Dec 15 | 7:30 pm, Dec 16 | 1 pm
A Christmas Carol
Starring Rob MacLean. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 15–17
Christmas with Loretta
Music at The Manse, Marshfield
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 17 | 7 pm
Central Queens Musical Friends: Christmas Song Service
Central Queens United, Hunter River
Dec 17 | 7 pm
Songbirds & The Starlings Choir: A Concert in December Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 17 | 7:30 pm
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 23 | 7 pm
Festival des Fêtes: Celebrating Our Traditions Christmas Show
Village musical acadian, Abram-Village
Dec 23 | 7:30 pm
The Night Before The Night Before Christmas
Feat. Chazz Smith and Mark Haines. Inn at Fortune Bridge, Fortune Bridge
Luminos Ensemble: Mysterium
Dec 23 | 8 pm
Summerside Presbyterian, Summerside
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 20 | 7:30 pm
Jack Pine Folk Club Feat. Fiona MacCorquodale & Isaac King, Lawrence Maxwell, Nathan Wiley and host Shane Pendergast.The Pourhouse, Charlottetown
Amanda Jackson & Route 225 Dec 26 | 8 pm
Liam Corcoran Album Release
With KINLEY and her band. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 27 | 8 pm Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 28 | 8 pm
St. Paul’s, Charlottetown
Feat. Robbie Doherty and Pierce Clarke. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Island Jazz feat. Patrick Nabuurs Quartet
Dec16 | 8 pm
Dec 20–23 | 7:30 pm, Dec 23 | 1 pm
Luminos Ensemble: Mysterium
Catherine MacLellan
Island Jubilee Christmas Special
Barra MacNeils: An East Coast Christmas
Chrismas with Cory Gallant & The Red Dirt Posse
Robbie & Pierce: Together for Christmas
Dec 16 | 7:30 pm
Dec 15 | 7 pm
Dec 15 | 7:30 pm
Mike Biggar & Terra Spencer: Songs of the Season
More Soul
With Nick Gauthier. The Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris
St. Andrews United, Vernon Bridge
Dec 22 | 8 pm
Dec 20 | 8 pm
Matinee feat. Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron. Trinity United, Summerside
Night of the Father’s Love Christmas Cantata
Dec 17 | 2 pm
Dec 17 | 2 pm
Feat. Shane Pendergast and Olivia Blacquiere. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 17 | 2 pm
Ledwell & Haines: Kings Playhouse Christmas Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 17 | 2 pm
Mike Biggar & Terra Spencer: Songs of the Season Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 17 | 2 pm, 5 pm
Robert Academy of Dance: A Very RAD Medley Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 17 | 2:30 pm
Forte Men’s Choir: A Very Forte Christmas Kirk of St. James, Charlottetown
The Gift of the Magi
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Watermark Theatre, North Rustico
Dec 28 | 8 pm
Dec 21 | 7:30 pm
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Bluestreak Album Launch
Irish Cultural Centre, Charlottetown
Dec 21 | 7:30 pm
Lennie Gallant: The Innkeeper’s Christmas
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 21 | 8 pm
Dan Hendricken & Friends Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 21 | 8 pm
Island Jazz Christmas Quartet Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Dec 22 | 7 pm
A Global Christmas Concert Leo Marchildon conducts 50+ singers and a 25-piece orchestra. St. Dunstan’s Basilica, Charlottetown
Dec 22 | 8 pm
Live! with Logan Richard Talk show (Christmas special) with guests Shane Pendergast and Catherine MacLellan. Harmony House, Hunter River
The Love Junkies Dec 29
Dufflebag Theatre: Snow White
2 pm: Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside 6 pm: Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 30 | 8 pm
Coyote
With Wrong Planet Band. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 31 | select times
Capital New Year Feat. Adam MacGregor, Bridget Driver, Brandon Gillis & David Woodside, dance umbrella, DJ Josh Hood, LeFunk and Swift Kick. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 31 | 2 pm
Island Jubilee: Hank William’s Special
Feat. Lawrence Maxwell. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
…continued on page B16
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B13
Festival des Fêtes
Lisa Brokop in concert
A Classic Country Christmas at Harbourfont Theatre—Dec 12
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
The Christmas spirit is already overtaking the Village musical acadien in Abram-Village as the venue continues its 2023 Festival des Fêtes (Holiday Festival). The four-event Holiday Festival began in November with the annual Village Christmas Market. The second event, on December 3 at 6 pm, will begin with a threecourse turkey supper, followed by a country-flavoured holiday show with the Chad Matthews Band. Known for their Stompin’ Tom tributes and gospel shows, the band is composed of Chad Matthews, Yves Arsenault, Steve Perry, Jim Williams, Danalee Carragher and Wade Carragher. For tickets, call 8543300 or visit villagemusical.com. Josée Boudreau & Le Groupe Maz will perform midnight mass classics along with modern Christmas hits on December 10 at 2 pm. The group features Josée Boudreau of Mont-Carmel, and Isabelle Bourgeois, Ginette Caissie, Denise Guitard, Alex O’Brien, JeanMarc O’Brien and Guy Mazerolle, all from New Brunswick. Tickets are availble online at villagemusical.com and at the door. The Holiday Festival’s final event will be Celebrating Our Traditions Christmas Show on December 23 at 7 pm. The 17th annual multigenerational
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Three more holiday events at Village musical acadien
(from the top): Chad Matthews, Josée Boudreau & Le Group Maz, and the Celebrate Our Traditions show performers.
show will include traditional and familiar carols, some new Christmas songs, fiddle tunes, dancing, comedy and plenty of surprises. Directed by Caroline Bernard, this show will feature Caroline Bernard, Rémi Arsenault, Marcella Richard, Louise Arsenault, Jonathan Arsenault, Wayne Robichaud, Keelin Wedge and special guests. Tickets available only at the door.
Jack Pine Folk Club
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Fiddle and guitar duo, songwriters and poetry—Dec 20 Take a step back in time with some fantastic folk music and spoken word at the Jack Pine Folk Club hosted by Shane Pendergast at the Pourhouse in Charlottetown. On December 20 at 7:30 pm, Pendergast will welcome fiddle and guitar duo Fiona MacCorquodale & Isaac King to the stage. Songwriter and poet Lawrence Maxwell will read selections from his recent publication Collection Plates & Slot Machines. Songwriter Nathan Wiley will round off the night for what promises to be a heart-warming and entertaining evening. Doors open at 7 pm. Shows start at
This holiday season, on December 12 at 7:30 pm, Harbourfront Theatre will welcome country star Lisa Brokop with her new festive show, A Classic Country Christmas. Audiences can expect some of Brokop’s favourite country Christmas songs. Just about every famous country artist has recorded a Christmas album and Brokop has gathered up the songs that have meant the most to her over the years. Brokop has been performing professionally since she was a teenager, with “Daddy Sing To Me” being the first of a string of successful singles from her independent debut album My Love. At the age of 19, Brokop landed the lead female role in the feature film Harmony Cats, where she plays a country singer who leaves home in search of a big break in Nashville. This role proved to be prophetic. Shortly after filming wrapped, and on the strength of her first Nashville showcase, she was signed to
Fiona MacCorquodale and Isaac King
7:30 pm. Admission is at the door. The Pourhouse is located above The Old Triangle at 189 Great George Street in Charlottetown.
Country music star Lisa Brokop
Capitol Records. Over the next three years, Brokop released two critically acclaimed albums, the Canadian-certified Gold record Every Little Girls Dream as well as her self-titled album. She has been recognized by the Academy of Country Music with an award nomination for Top New Female Vocalist and she has earned a series of Canadian Country Music Awards. harbourfronttheatre.com
Keeping himself busy
Three shows at Florence Simmons in December
Lennie Gallant’s Christmas tour ends a dynamic year
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Island Jubilee shows
(left–right): Lester MacPherson, Shane Pendergast and Lawrence Maxwell
The Island Jubilee Old Time Radio Music Show continues its second season with three shows in December. The entire Island Jubilee show will head to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on December 3 to celebrate and host Cardigan’s Lester MacPherson. Well known for sharing his music and warm sense of humour, lifting the hearts of so many throughout PEI, Lester’s evenings and weekends are usually spent lending his talents, hopping from one benefit to another, sometimes three in one evening. His humble salt of the earth personality, strong sense of place, and deep love of people, family and country music made him a staple at community events and earned him the warm-hearted nickname: The Island’s Country Gentleman. The afternoon show will start at 2 pm and feature country music, stories and more. The Island Jubilee Christmas Special on December 17 at 2 pm will feature PEI singer-songwriter Shane Pendergast. Hailing from a long lineage of PEI storytellers and musicians, Pendergast is keeping the Maritime folk tradition alive with his honest and insightful compositions. From acclaimed folk festivals to the back rooms of Toronto cafes, he has
cemented himself as one of Atlantic Canada’s finest young folk troubadours. Singer-songwriter and step dancer Olivia Blacquiere, will join Pendergast on stage. The Island Jubilee welcomes Lawrence Maxwell on December 31 to celebrate the music of Hank Williams, one of country music’s most influential singer songwriters of all time. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Williams’s birth, and the 70th anniversary of his passing. Hank died at age 29 but the musical legacy he left behind remains one of the most iconic works in any music genre. On his Grand Ole Opry debut in 1949, Hank received six encores for his song “Lovesick Blues.” The Island Jubilee will try to recreate this excitement on stage at Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown on New Year’s Eve at 2 pm. Co-hosted by Nudie, Janet McGarry and Serge Bernard, the show’s house band includes Thomas Webb (steel guitar), Bobby McIsaac (acoustic/electric guitar), Courtney Hogan-Chandler (fiddle), Johnny Ross (piano), as well as Nudie (bass) and Serge (guitar/banjo/mandolin). Visit islandjubilee.com for tickets and more information.
With a dozen dates around the Maritimes, Lennie Gallant’s Christmas tour is coming to PEI this month. His festive multimedia show The Innkeeper’s Christmas returns to Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on December 2 and Confederation Centre in Charlottetown on December 21. The show is full of traditional and original Christmas songs, tales, laughs, and a few surprises that will put the audience in a Yuletide state of mind. Gallant will be joined on stage with his Lennie Gallant (right) with Jimmy Buffet in the three-piece band, including Shrimp Boad Studio Patricia Richard. In the lead-up to these holiday shows, Gallant’s recent months world.” have been marked by a whirlwind of Gallant’s song and YouTube video artistic endeavors. for “On The Minnehaha,” celebrating Despite a busy 2023 tour schedule, Kirsten Neauchaffer’s solo sail race he collaborated with partner Patricia victory, has gained worldwide recogRichard on the Sirène et Matelot nition. Kirsten, named the 2023 Top francophone album Un monde de disSailor by Rolex, spent a year on PEI, sonances. Launched in September, the forming connections that inspired the album’s last single was at the top of the song, now among the top five most Acadian charts for five weeks. played on Radio Margaritaville, and Gallant also played a role in Jimmy boasting 3 million weekly listeners. Buffett’s posthumous album, Equal All ticket info for the Christmas Strain On All Parts. Buffett contacted tour and more at lenniegallant.com. Gallant about a year ago to help him out on writing a couple songs and then, to Gallant’s surprise, flew him down to Key West to sing on both of them. Gallant is a featured vocalist on the song “Portugal or PEI.” “I was the last person to sing in the legendary Shrimp Boat Studio before they were tearing it apart! Jimmy was undergoing treatment for something he didn’t ever talk about,” says Richard Wood & Friends at The Gallant, “but his energy was very posMack in January itive.” Reflecting on this time, Gallant Richard Wood & Friends are bringing shared, “It was an amazing experience. the East Coast Kitchen Party to The Such a great energy from Jimmy, Mac, Mack in Charlottetown on January 26. and crew, and a beautiful part of the The fourth year of the East Coast Kitchen Party series will feature five-time ECMA and multiple Music PEI award-winner Richard Wood and his friends Rémi Arsenault and Caroline Bernard; special guests Shane Pendergast, Peggy Clinton, Lawrence Maxwell and Jolee Patkai; Somerset dancers Alexis MacLaren and Isla Rousseaux-Bridle; and Samuel Richard, this year’s College of Piping Wood Family Fiddle Award recipient. Concert tickets can be purchased via phone at 566-1267 or online at confederationcentre.com. Wood is also partnering with the Great George Hotel to offer package deals for the third year in a row. Call the hotel directly at 1-800-361-1118 to reserve. rwood.ca
East Coast Kitchen Party
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Page B14 The BUZZ December 2023
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B15
Rounding Third
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Bluestreak album launch at Irish Cultural Centre—Dec 21
(left–right): Larry Campbell, Roger Whitman, Marcella Richard, David Blue and Peter Richards
Bluestreak will launch their new album Rounding Third at 7:30 pm on December 21 at the Irish Cultural Centre (BIS Hall) in Charlottetown. Bluestreak formed in 2003 and recorded their first album, First Impression, in 2004. The album received seven PEI Music awards that year. Their next album, Second Nature, won the 2005 PEI Music Award for Bluegrass Recording of the Year. Both albums received ECMA nominations. In 2020, with a growing number of new original songs in their pockets and a strong desire to play music together again, original band members Larry Campbell, Roger Wightman and David Blue decided to regroup to record a new album. They recruited Peter Richards to bring his dobro and singer Marcella Richard to complete the harmonies and play rhythm guitar. The resulting album is Rounding Third. Traditional bluegrass talks about life from a simple point of view. The values of everyday people, especially in a rural context, are what make up the lyrical content. How Bluestreak speaks that language—with originality, sincerity, humour and true feeling—is what makes them stand out and what earns them such a warm reception from their fans. Rounding Third follows in the tradition of their earlier albums, telling stories of Island life with that feeling, sincerity, humour and originality. Lead singer Larry Campbell has one of the most recognized voices in PEI’s folk, country and bluegrass scenes. He started in the late 1980s with the bluegrass group A Touch of Grass, and later played with country rock band Neon Moon before founding Bluestreak in 2003. Larry is also a songwriter for Bluestreak. Roger Wightman plays the 5-string banjo and was a founding member of Out of the Blue, who were active in the
1980s and 90s. Roger sings the baritone harmony, and in addition to his accomplished banjo picking, makes a major contribution to Bluestreak’s repertoire as a songwriter. David Blue is the son of Laurie and Bernice Blue who formed PEI’s first bluegrass band, The Blades of Grass, in 1972. David played on his father’s album Treasured Memories and has played countless shows and festivals since first stepping on stage at the age of 12. He was also a founding member of Out of the Blue and plays a 300-year-old bass that was formerly owned and played by Duke Neilson of Don Messer and his Islanders. A veteran of the PEI music scene since the 1980s, Peter Richards has performed in groups with Island musicians Chas Guay, Chris Corrigan, Reg Ballagh and many others. He is a studio musician (bass on Darkies Hollow, Scott Parsons, 2019), and in 2015 and 2020, he released albums of his own compositions featuring Island artists as guest lead singers. He was a member of the Wheatley River Band and Charlie Hansen’s Simply Acoustic before joining Bluestreak. Marcella Richard has performed across North America and in France (with Angèle Arsenault). She has recorded three French albums, and the songs, written by Marcella and artists from the Maritimes and Louisiana, are still played on French language radio stations. She received a 2002 ECMA nomination for Francophone Album of the Year, and her English album Marcella Richard Sings Roy MacCaull won the Music PEI Country Album of the Year in 2018. Marcella’s voice and guitar complete the Bluestreak sound. Admission to the album launch is by cash at the door, which opens at 7 pm. There will be a cash bar and CDs available for purchase. bluestreakpei.com
Page B16 The BUZZ December 2023
PERFORMANCE music, theatre, dance, comedy…
Feb 16 | 7:30 pm
Morgan Toney
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Feb 17| 7:30 pm
Mar 20 | 7:30 pm
Travelogue: In the Footsteps of Joni Mitchell Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Bboyizm: The evolution of B-boying
Mar 28 | 7:30 pm
FLIP Fabrique: Blizzard
…continued from page B12
Jan 19 | 8 pm
Dec 31 | 9 pm
Feat. Alex Mackenzie. The Mack, Charlottetown
Feb 17 | 7:30 pm
Mar 30 | 7:30 pm
Jan 21 | 8 pm
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague
“You Should Be Dancin” New Years at 54 Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 3 | 7 pm
Listening in Colour: BIPOC Artists in the Round Discussion and performances by Joce Reyome, Luisa F. Güiza and Tuli Porcher. Hosted By Evelyn Bradley. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 3 | 8 pm
Leanne Hoffman & Noah Malcolm
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 5 | 8 pm
Wharf Rats
Tribute to Grateful Dead. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 6 | 8 pm
Christine Campbell & Blake Johnston Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 11 | 8 pm
Benny Von
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 12 | 8 pm
Saltwater Dollies
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Alex Tells Jokes
Martha Wainwright
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 23 | 7:30 pm
Harlem Gospel Choir
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Jan 25–27 | 8 pm
Hotel California: A Night of The Eagles Feat. Brad Milligan, Joce Reyome, Alyssa Harper and Craig Fair. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 14 | 2 pm
Island Jubilee
Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 16 | 8 pm
Don Ross
With special guest Sean Hall. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 18 | 8 pm
Quittin’ Time Tribute to Zach Bryan feat. Keira Loane and Cody Vokey. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Feb 24 | 7:30 pm
Yuk Yuk’s Comedy: Derek Seguin The Mack, Charlottetown
Snowed In Comedy Tour
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Apr 4 | 7:30 pm
Epic Eagles: The Definitive Tribute to The Eagles
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Apr 6 | 7:30 pm
The Mack, Charlottetown
Feb 25 | 2:30 pm
Apr 7 | 2:30 pm
Jan 27 | 7:30 pm
Guest conductor Juliane Gallant. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Guest conductor Daniel Black. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Tribute to Tyler Childers. Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague
Feb 28 | 7:30 pm
Apr 10 | 7:30 pm
Jan 31 | 8 pm
The Mack, Charlottetown
The Hounds
Jazz Avenue
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Feb 1 | 7:30 pm
The Pack Drumline
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Feb 2 | 8 pm
Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague
Tribute to Nickleback. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Classic Albums Live: Supertramp: Crime of the Century
Apr 4 | 7:30 pm
Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague
Richard Wood & Friends: East Coast Kitchen Party
Tribute to Merle Haggard feat. Lawrence Maxwell & The Fugitives. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Rockstars
Feb 22 | 7:30 pm
Garrett Mason
Logan Richard and his band
Jan 26 | 7:30 pm
Poet of the Common Man
Jan 13 | 8 pm
Morgan Toney
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Yuk Yuk’s Comedy: Peter Antony
Jan 13 | 7:30 pm
Haunted Hearts
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Feb 3 | 7:30 pm
Tightrope
With special guests Got Blues. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Feb 10 | 7:30 pm
Irish Mythen
Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague
Feb 11 | 2 pm
Island Jubilee
Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Feb 24 | 7:30 pm
PEI Symphony Orchestra
Guy Davis
Simon Leoza
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
The Mack, Charlottetown
Mar 9 | 7:30 pm
Apr 11| 7:30 pm
Old Man Luedecke
Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague
Mar 10 | 2 pm
Island Jubilee
Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Mar 10 | 7:30 pm
David Myles
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Mar 12 | 7:30 pm
Darcy & Jer: The No Refunds Tour Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Mar 16 | 7:30 pm
Ballet Edmonton
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Mar 18 | 7:30 pm
William Prince
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Feb 15 | 7:30 pm
Mar 19 | 7:30 pm
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Heather Rankin: Sound of Cape Breton
PEI Symphony Orchestra
Debut Atlantic: Amir Amiri Ensemble
Candace Bushnell: True Tales of Sex, Success, and Sex and the City Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Apr 12| 7:30 pm
The Comic Strippers
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Apr 13 | 3 pm
Confederation Centre Youth Chorus: Singing Our Stories Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Apr 18 | 7:30 pm
ABBA Revisited
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
…more at buzzpei.com
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B17
Sarah Hagen
Fandango at Christmas
Night Music, a solo piano recital at St. Paul’s—Dec 15
Harbourfront Theatre—Dec 8 & 9
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Night Music with pianist Sarah Hagen returns to St. Paul’s on December 15 at 8 pm. Inspired by Natkirke, a contemplative initiative in Denmark, the carefully curated hour-long programme will include works by Bach, Chaminade, Rachmaninoff, and others. In the spirit of thoughtfulness, the audience is encouraged to enter quietly and the music will flow from one piece to the next without pause or applause. All are welcome at this reflective experience of captivating piano music
brought to life in the exceptional acoustics of St. Paul’s. Admission is pay-what-you-will at the door or by etransfer to sarah@sarahhagen.com. St. Paul’s is located at the corner of Prince and Grafton streets in Charlottetown.
Voices of PEI
Love Junkies for Santa’s Angels
PEI String Collective’s debut concert at St. Paul’s—Dec 8
All ages show at Trailside—Dec 2 SUBMITTED
The PEI String Collective will present its inaugural concert, Voices of Prince Edward Island, at 7:30 pm on December 8 at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown. The concert will feature three pieces by PEI composers, including “Arches” by Sean Kemp, “The Sound Does Not Return” by Karen Graves, and “Give Voice” by Dr. Richard Covey. The orchestra will also welcome special guest Sylvia Abikhattar-Mutch who will perform several Christmas selections, as well as Puccini’s Vissi d’Arte and Laudate Dominum by Mozart. Rounding out the program will be two movements of Josef Suk’s “Serenade for Strings.” The PEI String Collective is a community string orchestra made up of professional string players, music students and community amateur performers. The orchestra started in
Fandango Musical Players, a non-profit community theatre and choral group, presents Fandango at Christmas: The Singing Christmas Tree on December 8 and 9 at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside. Will the Kings make it to Bethlehem? Will Buddy get what he needs to help save Christmas or will a certain mean one spoil their plans? This holiday season, join Fandango Musical Players for a musical ride of fantasy, fun and frivolity. Fandango at Christmas: The Singing Christmas Tree will leave audience members feeling festive and ready for for the season. Showtime is 7:30 pm. harbourfronttheatre.com
mezzo-soprano Sylvia Abikhattar-Mutch
September 2021 as part of the UPEI Music Department, and moved into becoming a community orchestra this year. With members coming from as far afield as Morell and Summerside, the orchestra rehearses once weekly with conductor Natalie Williams Calhoun at the new UPEI Performing Arts Centre. Admission to Voices of Prince Edward Island is by free will donation, in support of the orchestra. Funded completely by community support, this concert will help fund next term’s rehearsals and performance.
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Santa’s Angels is celebrating its 20th year of giving in 2023. To celebrate, The Love Junkies are playing an all ages show at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on December 2 from 12 noon–2 pm. Admission is by monetary donation and/or with a new, unwrapped toy. Providing toys, food and other goods, Santa and his elves visit Island homes on (or around) Christmas Day each year, bringing joy and laughter to families in need. To donate, find a toy drop off location or to register a family for a visit in 2023, visit santasangels.ca.
York Christmas Sing Along York United—Dec 10 The Annual York Christmas Sing Along will be held at 7 pm on December 10 at York United. Christmas songs are heard all over the place during the holiday season but there isn’t often a chance to get to sing along with them. At the York Christmas Sing Along, attendees will sing in a group and be accompanied by a band. Admission is by donation. The church is located at 757 Route 25.
Page B18 The BUZZ December 2023
NEW ALBUMS Rounding Third Bluestreak
by Richards, and mastered by Jon Matthews at The Sound Mill. CDs and digital downloads of the complete album are available online at bluestreakpei.com. Bluestreak will launch the album at 7:30 pm on December 21 at the Irish Cultural Centre (BIS Hall) at 582 North River Road in Charlottetown.
In the Crystalline Vault of Heaven Luminos Ensemble
PEI Music Award-winning group Bluestreak released their new album, Rounding Third, on November 3. The album contains 15 original songs in the acoustic blend of bluegrass, folk, country and gospel that Bluestreak is known for. The members of the group are Larry Campbell on lead vocal, guitar and mandolin, Roger Wightman on vocals and banjo, Marcella Richard on vocals and guitar, Peter Richards on dobro, and David Blue on bass. Rounding Third follows in the tradition of their two earlier albums, First Impression and Second Nature, telling stories of Island life, such as: a son leaving home (“Mother’s Love”), remembering Dad (“The Bluegrass Singer”), remembering Mom (“Voice of an Angel”), getting through a long winter (“March On”), getting married (“Better Together”), regaining faith (“Open Again”), inheriting a bass played in Don Messer’s band (“This Old Bass”), and surviving a hurricane (“I Won’t Forget Fiona”). And they are true stories. Mostly. Produced by Peter Richards and Bluestreak, Rounding Third was recorded by Larry Campbell, mixed
a drummer and recording artist in various bands and occasional solo ventures. He has performed and recorded with musicians in and from Korea, Abu Dhabi, Mongolia, and Brunei, where he lived and worked as a teacher from 2003–2021. After moving back to PEI in 2021, Clements enlisted the help of musicians Barrett and Smith to reimagine old recordings and write new material. The result is The Laboratory of Poetics and Soundwave Manipulation, which consists mostly of previously unreleased material plus a small sampling of the band’s new work. The album features Clements’ poetry and jams that blend elements of blues, funk, jazz and Latin fusion. “Trevor and his Cats evoke the best of ‘60s beatniks…jazzy poetic stylings turn your living room into Greenwich Village,” said Adam-Michael James, host of the isletunes podcast.
Nova Scotian Derek Charke. “We wanted an album that reflected the diversity and breadth of choral music being written on the east coast,” said Rejskind. “We’re showcasing composers like Adam, Emily and Evan, who all wrote these new works for us.” Charlottetown-based Luminos Ensemble is a professional choir of trained vocal soloists that formed in 2017. The group received an ECMA Award nomination in the inaugural Best Choral Recording of the Year category in 2023 for their single, “I am an Island That Dreams“ by David Buley. luminosensemble.com
The Laboratory of Poetics and Soundwave Manipulation Trevor Lowell Clements & the Barn Cat Poetry Beat
Haunted Hearts Live at Copper Bottom Brewing—Jan 13 Luminos Ensemble released their latest recording, In the Crystalline Vault of Heaven in October via Leaf Music, an independent recording label based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The sixteen-member group, under the artistic direction of Dr. Margot Rejskind, recorded the album of music by Atlantic Canadian composers in May 2022 at St. Paul’s in Sturgeon, PEI. The album features a lineup of all-Atlantic Canadian composers, including Atlantic String Machine’s Adam Hill, EKR (Evan) Hammell, Emily Doolittle, Terry Pratt, Derek Charke, Peter Togni, Kathleen Allan and David Buley. The title track, “In the Crystalline Vault of Heaven,” was composed by
Charlottetown's Haunted Hearts will perform at Copper Bottom Brewing in Montague on January 13 at 7:30 pm. Haunted Hearts began in 2008 with Dennis Ellsworth, Mike MacDougall, Johnny Ross, Blu Gillis, and Dan Currie. Their debut album Thank You, Goodnight received an ECMA nomination and won three Music PEI Awards. In 2012, after another studio album, years of touring, and multiple lineup changes, the band went on hiatus. Eight years later, the original five-member band is back and writing new songs. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Standing room only. Tickets can be purchased in the taproom or online via Locarius.
The Laboratory of Poetics and Soundwave Manipulation by Trevor Lowell Clements & the Barn Cat Poetry Beat was released on streaming platforms back in September. This is the first official album from Trevor Lowell Clements (poet, drummer, busker and sometimes singer) and his bandmates the Barn Cats—Mark Barrett (guitar) and Wade Smith (bass, flute, synth, percussion). Since 1991, Clements has collaborated with a number of musicians in PEI and internationally, both as
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UPEI Department of Music Harmonia
Youth Choirs
End-of-semester student concerts in December
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Solstice celebration concert at Park Royal United—Dec 9
UPEI SSA Vocal Ensemble
The UPEI Department of Music will present two end-of-semester concerts this month featuring students currently enrolled in the music program. UPEI’s Jazz and Popular Music Ensemble will perform on December 5. Led by Krista Bryson, the Jazz and Popular Music Ensemble will present a program of music spanning a variety of genres and styles. On December 7, the UPEI Concert Choir, SSA Vocal Ensemble and Chamber Singers will perform a Christmas choral concert. Led by Sung Ha Shin-Bouey, the ensembles will
perform alongside guest musicians Leo Marchildon (piano), Sean Kemp and Zoe Sullivan (violins), Jeffrey BazettJones (viola), and Natalie Williams Calhoun (cello). A number of choral favourites will be featured on the program, including Vivaldi’s Gloria. Both recitals will begin at 7:30 pm on the SDU Stage at Dr. Steel Recital Hall. Admission is payable by cash at the door. To keep up to date on the UPEI Department of Music’s upcoming recitals and events, visit upei.ca/music.
Presented by Sirens Choral Association Inc, Harmonia Youth Choirs will perform their solstice celebration concert, Glow, on December 9 at Park Royal United in Charlottetown. This concert celebrates the return of light and the warmth to be found in winter’s chill. Harmonia’s inviting harmonies will rejuvenate the spirit and fill the audience with joy. The choirs will perform selections such as “Lunar Lullaby” by Jacob Narverud, “Old Fox Wassail” by Stephen Hatfield, “Tollite Hostias” by Camille Saint-Saëns, “Blow, blow, thou winter wind” by Sarah Quartel and many more. Plus, there will be a special guest performance by Sirens. The concert will conclude with Harmonia and Sirens joining forces to serenade the audience with Eric Whitacre’s “Glow.” Feel the enchantment of the season through the youthful voices of Harmonia, Sirens’ educational program for young singers. Tickets are available for purchase online at sirenschoir.com or at the door.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B19
Star-Led and Wonder Bound
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Summerside Community Choir at Trinity United—Dec 10
Summerside Community Choir presents Star-Led and Wonder Bound on at 3 pm on December 10 at Trinity United
Maybe This Christmas Charlottetown Legion Choir celebrates 60th anniversary An afternoon of festive choral music will commemorate a significant milestone—the 60th anniversary of the Charlottetown Legion Choir. Maybe This Christmas, a musical journey that traverses the past six decades, will capture the seasonal essence of each era. The choir will perform a mix of sacred and secular songs under the direction of Travis Boudreau, accompanied by Leo Marchildon on keyboard and a five-piece wind ensemble. The first concert will be at St Paul’s in
Rejoice! at Basillica Concert features PEI school and church choirs—Dec 6 School and church choirs from all corners of the Island and from various denominations will gather to present a special Christmas concert, Rejoice! Christmas in Song, at 7 pm on December 6 at St. Dunstan’s Basilica in Charlottetown. Coordinated by Grace Christian School and spearheaded by their music director, Julie Wilting, this musical offering showcases musicians united in song as the festive season approaches. Between each choral piece presented, the audience will be invited to
in Summerside. This season the Choir welcomed new director Ruth Ann Read-Clay, who brings years of experience as a music director of churches across Canada. Ruth Ann has chosen a selection of sacred and secular music that reflects the wonder of Christmas. Performing guests this year include the women’s ensemble Arioso, and instrumentalists, Marc DesRoches (oboe) and Melissa McCarville (flute) providing accompaniment. This performance will be especially meaningful to the choir, as they recently said goodbye to their matriarch, Elizabeth (Betty) Buley. Tickets are available from choir members and at the door, which opens at 2:30 pm. Visit FB/SummersideChoir or email sumchoir@gmail.com for more information.
Charlottetown on December 3. A week later, on December 10, the choir will be joined by Georgetown Elementary School band and choral students, and their music director Shanae Rogers, at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown. Both performances will start at 2:30 pm. Each afternoon will unfold as a tapestry, woven with the threads of nostalgic tunes and contemporary compositions. The students will add to the festive environment at the Playhouse by contributing their art works on seasonal themes. All are invited to a reception following each concert with a variety of light food supplied by choir members at no additional cost. Tickets are available from choir members, Georgetown Elementary School, and charlottetownlegionchoir. ca/general-5/.
sing carols accompanied by Basilica organist Leo Marchildon and The Weiler Family from Central Christian Church. Interspersed throughout the program will be instrumental solos performed by organist Jason Chen, as well as a performance by the Singing Strings. Choirs include the Legion Choir, the St. Dunstan’s Basilica choir and St. Andrew’s Anglican Choir. The inspiration for this concert stemmed from Julie’s efforts to locate performances of choral music on television for her aging mother-in-law. In her search, she stumbled across a program entitled “The Big Sing” airing from the Royal Albert Hall in England, featuring various choral groups. The idea was to follow through on this concept in Charlottetown. Rejoice! Christmas in Song is the result of this vision. Admission is by free will offering and by donation of non perishable canned food items for the food bank.
A Very Forte Christmas Sixteen-member men’s choir concert at the Kirk—Dec 17 The Forte Men’s Choir will deliver their annual choral Christmas card at 2:30 pm on December 17 at the Kirk of St. James in Charlottetown. The 16-member TTBB (tenor, tenor, bass, bass) choir is led by Dr. Margot Rejskind. Jacqueline Sorenson Young will provide piano accompaniment, and Madeline Kapp Some of the members of the Forte Men’s Choir MacDonald’s violin and Ross Boyd’s guitar will add to tip-of-the-hat to Dr. Seuss in “You’re some of the pieces. a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” They’ll also This Christmastime concert showdrink (musically) to the New Year with cases the rich four-part blend of male “We Toast the Days” and an instruvoices, which give warm depth to a mentally enhanced version of “Auld hearty rendition of “God Rest You Lang Syne.” As well, there’s the Forte Merry, Gentlemen” and “The First tradition of audience sing-along of Noel,” woven with the strains of some of the best-loved carols. Pachelbel’s Canon. The Kirk is located on Pownal Indeed, Forte does believe that Street (at Fitzroy St) in Charlottetown. the afternoon will be a sharing of the Admission is at the door. Email islandsense of joyous wonder. The guys can choralsociety@gmail.com or phone also have a bit of silly fun—with a 628-6778 for more information.
Memorial Carol Sing St. Paul’s, Charlottetown—Dec 10 Memorial Carol Sing will be held on December 10 at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown. This hour-and-a-half of Advent and Christmastime music, beginning at 2 pm, is almost all participatory—that is, singing together. Beyond singing the music of the Christmas season and hearing a few
A Global Christmas 55 voices and a 25-piece orchestra at St. Dunstan’s—Dec 22 The St. Dunstan’s Basilica’s annual Christmas spectacular will return after a three year hiatus on December 22. A Global Christmas, featuring 55 voices accompanied by a 25-piece orchestra, all under the direction of Leo Marchildon, will begin at 7 pm. Aside from presenting “Fantasia Noel,” which puts a contemporary spin on classic Christmas carols, the concert will celebrate the Island’s
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performed pieces, attendees can also participate and actively honour a fondly remembered person by inscribing their name on a star which will be placed on the church’s Memorial Tree. A donation of ten dollars at-thedoor will go toward maintaining the church’s 1936 Casavant organ. A tax receipt is issued on request. Donations are not required to attend. The aim is chiefly that people join in fellowship and appreciate the traditional music of this time of year. Info: stpauls@pei.aibn.com; @ stpaulschurchinpei on FB; 892-1691; stpaulschurch.ca
Christian diversity with over a dozen carols from around the world. From Italy’s “Tu Scendi Dalle Stelle” to “Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit” from the Philippines, this global collection of well known songs, many of which will be sung in their native tongue, serves as a warm welcome to those who have moved here from other countries. Included in this collection is “Kulein Ma’li,” a setting of the Ave Maria in Mi’kmaq, newly composed by Leo Marchildon. The traditional highlight of the evening is the singing of “Silent Night” by candlelight. Admission is by donation at the door prior to entering. Owing to the popularity of this event, early arrival is suggested in order to get a good seat.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B21
ONGOING MUSIC
Bach’s Magnificat The Island Choral Society performs at St. Paul’s—Dec 9
ceilidhs, dances, sessions… Blues Jam at Baba’s
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Plain Dirty Blues band plays at Baba’s Lounge on the last Saturday of each month (Dec 30) from 5:30–8 pm. Admission is by donation. Follow @Plain Dirty Blues on FB for updates. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
The Island Choral Society with Luminos Chamber Orchestra
Exactly 300 years ago in 1723, Johann Sebastian Bach set to glorious music the well-cherished words of an event from 2000 years ago. The Magnificat is the text, appearing in Luke’s Gospel (vv 46-55), of what Mary says to her cousin Elizabeth, as they share news of their pregnancies. It is a poem of acceptance, of joy and praise. The Island Choral Society brings it to life again, performing Bach’s Magnificat at 7:30 pm on December 9, in the acoustical warmth of St. Paul’s in Charlottetown. The piece is a little unusual, being written for five voices—two soprano parts as well as alto, tenor and bass. There are solos, duets and trios that glow with feeling, along with the rousing choruses. The voices intertwine, as if Bach were weaving a piece of musical cloth. He’d had a challenging competition to get the job as head of music for St. Thomas church in Leipzig, and when he finally got the post, it’s clear that with the Magnificat he pulled out all the stops to impress his new employers. Many consider
that the work is one of the grandest demonstrations of Bach’s genius. It has been recorded by all the great names in orchestral music, and is a favourite of choirs around the globe. The Island Choral Society choir has performed other major classics, including Vivaldi’s Gloria in D, Fauré’s Requiem, and Mozart’s Requiem. The 30-member SATB group 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. The performance is enhanced by Dr. Rejskind’s Luminos Chamber Orchestra. The soloists will be soprano Georgia Edwards, mezzo Melissa Lewis, and bass Brodie MacRae. As a bonus, besides the customary audience sing-along of a selection of traditional carols, the program includes three moving Christmas pieces sung by the choir. The concert will finish with everyone—audience and choir together—singing “Silent Night.” Tickets are available at islandchoralsociety.ca and at the door.
The weekly concert series hosted by Island musicians Kendall Docherty, Peter Burke, Brian Knox, Brian Langille and Brian Blacquiere, will close its season on December 6 at 7:30 pm with Christmas Ceilidh in the City in support of Toys For Tots. The Ceilidhs have been showcasing the musical culture of PEI and each week offers a sampling of Island musicians. Admission is at the door, which opens for general seating at 6:30 pm. The venue offers cabaret-style seating, a full canteen with hot and cold menu options, and bar service. Jack Blanchard Hall, 7 Pond St, Charlottetown.
Dunstaffnage Ceilidh
A ceilidh takes place 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.
Got Blues Matinee
Got Blues Matinee with Chris Roumbanis, Reg Ballagh, Mike Robicheau and special guest(s) is held at the Salvadore Dali Café from 2–4 pm. The second set is always an electric blues jam. Special guests in December include: singer Amanda Franciosa & bassist/ singer Gerry Franciosa (Dec 2); singer/ guitarist ANICA from NB (16); singer/ guitarist/keyboardist Joseph MacMillan (30). 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Mysterium
Summerside Kitchen Party
A Kitchen Party at the Summerside Legion is held on Saturday afternoons from 2–5 pm with a different entertainer each week. The December lineup includes: Sandra Jones (2); Dave Doyle (9); and Andy Paynter and Cathy Jackman (16). 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.
Sunday Session
An afternoon Tune Session featuring traditional music and craic with host fiddler Roy Johnstone takes place weekly on Sundays from 2–4 pm at The Old Triangle. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Trad Night at Village Green
PEI’s smallest brewery, specializing in traditional and modern beer styles, hosts a Trad Night every Thursday evening. Enjoy free, live music from 7–9 pm in the cozy taproom. Space is limited. Located at 30 Church St in the old post office/ dental clinic (turn at Church St and Cornwall Rd), Cornwall.
Bluestreak CD Launch December 21
Island Jazz
Jazz on Thursdays at Baba’s Lounge features top local musicians performing original music, standards, jazz and pop favourites. Each show features a different group and two sets starting at 8 pm. Admission is by donation. The December lineup includes: Holland College SOPA Students (Dec 7); Island Jazz Christmas with Kelley Mooney (14); Island Jazz Christmas Quartet (21); Patrick Nabuurs Quartet (28). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown. SUBMITTED
Presented by Luminos Ensemble—Dec 16 & 17 Luminos Ensemble will present Mysterium, a candlelit meditation on Christmas, at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown on December 16 and at Summerside Presbyterian on December 17. Both concerts will begin at 7:30 pm. In Mysterium, the 16 voices of Luminos Ensemble will perform interweaving familiar carols with lesser-known historical and worldwide traditions, including Renaissance polyphony by Thomas de Victoria, adaptations of carols by Indigenous composer Andrew Balfour, and a melding of Indian and Western classical styles by Indian-American composer
Ceilidh in the City
at the door with proceeds going to Camp Gencheff. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford.
Reena Esmail. Traditional favourites will also be performed, including The First Nowell and Silent Night, as well as audience favourite Ave Maria by Franz Biebl. Tickets are available online at luminosensemble.com
Schooner Sessions
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 is held 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. Admission
Irish Hall (BIS)
582 North River Road Charlottetown 7:30 pm Doors open at 7:00 pm Admission by cash at the door: $12 for admission or $20 for admission plus the CD Cash bar available
Page B22 The BUZZ December 2023
Trailside Music Hall
‘Twas two nights before Season favourites at Inn at Fortune Bridge—Dec 23
The Rowdymen Dec 5
His country roots run deep, being raised on the outlaw music of Waylon Jennings, George Jones, and Merle Haggard. Cory was a finalist in the CBC Music Searchlight 2020 contest. His song “Where You Come From” earned him Top 10 overall and Top 3 greatest number of votes.
Liam Corcoran Album Release with KINLEY Dec 26
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To celebrate the holidays, Chazz Smith and Mark Haines will present The Night Before The Night Before Christmas concert of seasonal favourites in the lobby at the Inn at Fortune Bridge on December 23 at 7:30 pm. The Inn, which was once the general store at Fortune Bridge, has been restored and appointed under the direction of Chazz, who happily involves herself in every aspect of her renovations. “The lobby of The Inn is absolutely charming” says Chazz, “I have wanted to deck it out for Christmas and this concert is the perfect opportunity.” A highlight of the evening will be the draw for a generous gift basket loaded with yuletide treasure, including a Fireworks Feast dinner for two at The Inn At Bay Fortune. A select bar
A few of the many upcoming performances
Mark Haines and Chazz Smith
will be offered, including Chef Michael Smith’s Hard Cider. A limited number of seats are available. Advance tickets only; call 213-3314 to reserve. The Inn is located at 391 Route 310 in Fortune Bridge.
The Brown Sisters
What do you get when you combine a rock and roll guitarist with an orchestral percussionist and a musical theatre performer? You get The Rowdymen, a band devoted to sharing the music of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Rowdymen are guitarist Gerry Finn, East-coast musician Greg Hawco and Canadian musical theatre stalwart George Masswohl. They have come together to keep the music from the acclaimed musical Come From Away alive, while treating audiences to traditional and contemporary music and culture from “the Rock”.
Liam Corcoran will be playing his first hometown show since releasing Hints and Traces in July. KINLEY and her full band will open the show. The album was produced by Brian Murphy of Kiwi Jr. The nine songs touch on heartland rock and alt-country, with Kiwi Jr. frontman Jeremy Gaudet contributing harmonica. Other guests include Carleigh Aikins, former Arkells member Dan Griffin and Dwayne Gretzky’s Mike Brushey.
Nolan Compton Dec 29
Terra Spencer & Mike Biggar Songs of the Season Dec 17
Christmas concert for charity—Dec 10 The Brown Sisters—Kady, Karyn, Maria, Rachel and Rebekah—return to Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown for another Christmas Concert for Charity on December 10 at 6:30 pm. Join the five sisters for a night of music to amp up the Christmas spirit. More of the Brown family members will be joining in on the fun throughout the night. The charity this year is the
non-profit organization Gifts from the Heart. Thanks to their sponsor, Credit Union Atlantic, the Brown Sisters are able to donate 100 percent of their concert proceeds to Project Love, an annual undertaking by Gifts from the Heart to make sure each and every family on PEI has a Merry Christmas full of memories, regardless of their status. Doors will open at 6 pm. Tickets can purchased online at tproatlantic. ticketpro.ca/en/pages/HC_BSCC.
An Acoustic Christmas
Multi award-winning SingerSongwriters Mike Biggar (NB) and Terra Spencer (NS) are on tour this holiday season, joined by the Sugar Plum Boys stage band with Songs of the Season 2023. Performing previously at the Imperial Theatre in Saint John, NB to his hometown crowd, Biggar welcomes long-time friend Spencer as they hit the road, sharing the musical joy of the yuletide all around the East Coast.
Christmas with Cory Gallant & The Red Dirt Posse Dec 22
Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron
Kelley
An Acoustic Christmas with Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron will be performed on December 3 at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown at 1 pm, and on December 15 at Trinity United in Summerside at 7 pm.
Join Kelley, Keelin and Christine for a concert filled with three-part blended harmonies and more instruments than one can shake a Christmas tree at. For tickets in Charlottetown, visit trailside.ca. Tickets for Summerside will be available at the door.
Keelin
Christine
Cory Gallant’s modern traditional sound brings the best of 90s country to the 2020s—think Tim McGraw meets Luke Combs.
Nolan Compton’s musical journey in Calgary has been a wild ride, from rocking venues like Whiskey Rose, King Eddy, Ranchmans, to lighting the Country Thunder AB stage. He is coming back home to the Island for a one-night-only party-style event with the full band lineup of Alan Dowling (drums), Caroline Bernard (keys), Danny MacNevin (lead guitar), Remi Arsenault (bass) and Richard Wood (fiddle).
“You Should Be Dancin” New Years @ 54! Dec 31 Craig Fair Music Production’s “You Should Be Dancin” New Years @ 54 is back by popular demand to ring in 2024. Studio 54 was the club to be at in the 70s, and this promises the same with disco, funk, a thirteen person live show and two DJs, along with many special guests. Trailside Music Hall is located at 155 Kent Street in Charlottetown. Showtimes are 8 pm with doors opening at 6:30 pm (unless otherwise stated). For tickets and info visit trailside.ca or call 367-3311.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B23
CHRISTMAS MUSIC
Christmas concert includes lively holiday favourites, interspersed with poetry and fun. Conducted by Christie Beck with piano accompaniment by Liam Payne. A Joyful Sound features singers from across Eastern PEI. Admission is by free will offering. All are welcome.
Stratford Community Choir Christmas Concert
A Joyful Sound Community Choir will perform in Souris and Montague on December 10
Tip Er Back Christmas Concert
The Tip Er Back Christmas Concert, featuring Allan Betts, Clive Currie, Wade Murray, Darlene Bradley and Steven Perry, will be hetld at the Irish Cultural Centre at 8 pm on December 2. Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets are available at Eventbrite and at the door. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.
New Glasgow Christmas Choir
The New Glasgow Christmas Choir will present the musical drama A Not So Perfect Christmas at the New Glasgow Christian Church on December 2 and 3 at 7:30 pm. With music and humour, the performers explore the quest for a perfect Christmas and find that the perfect solution may not be what is expected. Admission is free but the choir hopes to raise funds through donations to send a stable full of animals to a World Vision village. 617 Route 258, New Glasgow.
Fiddlers’ Sons Christmas
Fiddlers’ Sons will present a Christmas concert at Park Royal United on December 3 from 2–4 pm. The PEI folk music group features three-time Music PEI award winning vocalist Eddy Quinn, guitarist John B. Webster and fiddler Allison Giggey. The Christmas concert will include the group sharing some of their favourite seasonal songs, Quinn sharing a few stories from his book Island Characters Volume 2, a fudge sale at intermission with proceeds going to the Food Bank, books and CDs available for purchase from the performers, and a bake sale. Tickets will be available at the door. 11 Christie Dr, Charlottetown.
The Stratford Community Choir is celebrating 25 years of singing by presenting Songs of the Season. The concert will be held on December 10 beginning at 2:30 pm at Spring Park United. Tickets are available from choir members and at the door. 65 Kirkwood Dr, Charlottetown.
Night of the Father’s Love
Dino & The Harmonies Dunsford, with very special guest, Garth Proude on bass. Admission is at the door, which opens at 6:30 pm. 121 Winsloe Rd, Rte 223, Winsloe.
Sounds of Christmas concert The Sounds of Christmas concert will take place at Central Queens United, Hunter River, on December 3 at 7 pm. All are invited to attend. This seasonal concert will feature Kirk Neville, Bonnie LaFrance and friends. Admission at the door. 19848 Route 2, Hunter River.
Georgetown Elementary School Choir recital
The Georgetown Elementary School Choir recital will be held at Kings Playhouse on December 5 at 6 pm. Tickets are by donation at the door, with proceeds going to the Georgetown Elementary School music program. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown.
We Need a Little Christmas
A Joyful Sound Community Choir will present We Need a Little Christmas, with performances on December 10 in Souris at St. Mary’s at 2 pm, and in Montague at Hillcrest United at 7 pm. The brand new
The Christmas cantata, Night of the Father’s Love, will be presented by the Senior Choir and friends of St Andrews United on December 15 at 7 pm. The choir will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Tickets are available from choir members, via phone at 651-2009 or by email to saintandrews1969@gmail.com. 7679 Trans-Canada Hwy, Vernon Bridge.
Central Queens Musical Friends
Central Queens Musical Friends will host a Christmas Song Service at Central Queens United in Hunter River on December 17 at 7 pm. Special guests include: Brad & Annika Trivers, Wade & Braden Campbell, Wina Reardon, Sarah Weeks, and Ellen Davis. The evening will feature the best of Christmas songs and music performed by the group. There will be a free will offering at the door. 19848 Route 2, Hunter River.
Four Hearts and the Jack Christmas Ceilidh
Four Hearts and the Jack Christmas Ceilidh will be held at 2 pm on December 10 at Winsloe United. Host Jacinta MacDonald welcomes special guests, Four Hearts and the Jack. This group was formed from the members wanting to give back to their seniors community. Four Hearts and the Jack perform at nursing and seniors homes across the Island. Admission is at the door, which opens at 1:30 pm. 121 Winsloe Rd, Rte 223, Winsloe.
SUMMERSIDE 179 East Drive (902) 436-3237
A Phase II Christmas: Santa Loves to Rock n’ Roll
A Phase II Christmas: Santa Loves to Rock n’ Roll concert will take place at West River United in Cornwall on December 3 starting at 2:30 pm. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance by calling 566-4052 or texting 393-3251. 10 Church St, Cornwall.
Dino Dunsford Christmas
A Christmas concert will be held on December 3 from 7–9 pm at Winsloe United. Performing are Dino & The Harmonies, featuring Keila Glydon, Rita Watts, Judy Lowe, Brian Knox, and Dino
musical instruments
gift
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SHOPPING
give the gift of music this season Best selection. Best price. Holiday shopping made easy.
CHARLOTTETOWN 104 Capital Drive (902) 368-3237
Page B24 The BUZZ December 2023
Live! With Live hip hop Logan Richard recording
The late-night, TV-style talk show Live! With Logan Richard will feature Shane Pendergast and Catherine MacLellan on December 22. Island musician Logan Richard, joined by his long-time band, welcome two special guests for each show and share an evening of stories, songs, games and more at Harmony House in Hunter River. Showtime is 8 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at harmonyhousepei.com or via phone with TicketPro at 1-888-311-9090.
Eric Broadbent
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Catherine
BraedenV
PEI hip hop artists Eric Broadbent and BraedenV will be taking the stage at 7 pm on January 6 at Howie’s Loft. Spun by DJ AllyCaT, these sets will be recorded to become live albums. The artists are raising funds for the project at kickstarter.com and there are several tiers of support, including admission into the show, signed CDs and posters, and more. Learn more about how to back the project at kickstarter.com (search “Eric Broadbent and Braeden V”). Howie’s Loft is located at 56 St Peter’s Road in Charlottetown.
The Australian Pink Floyd Show, the biggest and most spectacular Pink Floyd Show in the world, will tour Atlantic Canada in 2024, including a performance at Credit Union Place in Summerside on September 19. Performing the music of Pink Floyd with note for note perfection, this critically acclaimed show has been astonishing audiences worldwide for more than three decades, selling over four million tickets worldwide. The 2024 tour will bring to the stage the songs that mean so much to Pink
Floyd fans, state of the art lighting and video, pinpoint lasers, huge inflatables, and more. Replicating music from every phase of Pink Floyd’s journey, this tour reinforces TAPFS’s dedication to the heritage of Barrett, Waters, Gilmour, Wright and Mason with a show that pays sincere and genuine tribute to those legendary Pink Floyd productions. Tickets are now available at Credit Union Place via phone at 432-1234 and online at creditunionplace.ca, evenko. ca and livenation.com.
The Dirty Nil Live at PEI Brewing Company—Dec 6 The Dirty Nil is coming to the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on December 6 at 7 pm. Supporting acts include Like A Motorcycle, Diner Drugs, and Knull. Ontario’s JUNO Award-winning trio is a finely tuned rock machine that is at its best when the members are pursuing their penchant for thrashy riffs, bashed out drums, and levels-tothe-max volume. This is a general admission, standing room only, 19+ event. Doors open at 6 pm. Tickets are available at
Capital New Year Celebrate with the City of Charlottetown Residents are invited to celebrate on New Year’s Eve with the City of Charlottetown and Founders’ Food Hall & Market. Capital New Year celebrations on
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Shane
Coming to Credit Union Place in September
Eric Broadbent and BraedenV at Howie’s Loft—Jan 6
MILLEFIORE CLARKES
Guests Shane Pendergast and Catherine MacLellan—Dec 22
Aussie Pink Floyd Show
JUNO Award-winning trio The Dirty Nil
peibrewingcompany.com. Email info@ whitecapentertainment.com for accessible seating.
December 31 will feature free, family-friendly activities including skating, a photo booth, giveaways, mascot appearances, face painting, and a fireworks display at 7 pm. Live musical entertainment will be provided by Brandon Gillis and Dave Woodside, LeFunk, and Swift Kick. Visit for charlottetown.ca/nye for the full schedule of events. 6 Prince Street in Charlottetown.
LIVE MUSIC bars, lounges, cafés… Albert & Crown Pub
Live music from 8–11 pm (unless otherwide noted): Corey & Griff of Hired Guns (Dec 2)Kurk Bernard (3 @4 pm); Alyssa Harper (7); Blair Gaudet (8); Bruce & Robert Jones (10 @4 pm); Joey Doucette (14); Ivan Daigle (15); Alyssa Harper (17 @4 pm); Joey Doucette (21). 480 Main St, Alberton.
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 (unless otherwise noted): Customer Appreciation Night - DJ Drop-in (Dec 1); Afrohouse (2); John Lennon Tribute with Hal Bruce (8 @8 pm); Killbride and Guests (8); Radio Roulette, Busted Skulls with Geezer (9); Emo Night (15); Danny Gallant (16 @4 pm); DJ DNCTHNG - A Valleyfield Xmas Spectacularrrrrrr (16); TBA (19); Space Bud, Astrofalcons, Club Rat, Kurbstomp (22); Story (23 @ 5 pm); Hit the Coast 23); BraedenV DJ Night (26); Sellouts (29); Blues Jam with Plain Dirty Blues (30 @5:30 pm); Out from Under (30); Dekz (31 until 3 am). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Bogside Brewing
Fridays and Saturdays from 6:30–9:30 pm: Dave Woodside (Dec 1); Taylor Johnson (2); Margarita Wayne (8); Keira Loane (9); Dan Doiron (15); Jon Matthews (16); Carter MacLellan (22); Billy White (23); Brian Dunn (29); Charlotte Russell (30); NYE with Adam MacGregor and The Foes (31 @9 pm, ticketed event). Blizzard Goat Band on Saturdays from 3–5 pm. 11 Brook St, Montague.
Brothers 2
Thursdays and Fridays at 7 pm: Chris & Eric (Dec 1); Nick Hann (7); Karen & Mike (8); Trevor Cameron (14); Page & Steve (15); Dave Woodside (21/22); D’Arcy & Moe (29). 618 Water St, Summerside.
Charlottetown Legion
Saturdays at 9:30 pm: Spuds (Dec 2); Wrecking Crew (9); Kim Albert (16); TBA (23); Rustlers (30/31). All are welcome. 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.
Craft Beer Corner
Saturdays at 10 pm (no cover)(unless otherwise noted): SirReal (Dec 2); DJ Andy & Dancin Bricks (9); GloryWave (16); Whaleskin & Fundance (23); NYE with Ramzoid (31 @10:30 pm, cover). 156 Great George St, Charlottetown.
The Dalí Café
Got Blues Matinee (Dec 2, 9, 16, 30 @2 pm); David Thompson (8, 16, 22, 29 @6 pm); Dueling Pianos (9 @10 pm). 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.
The Factory
DJ Method on Thursdays. 2 DJs/2 Dance Floors on Fridays and Saturdays
(except Dec 8 & 22). Live music with Denton Fender (Dec 8/22). 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
The Fiddling Fisherman
Pub Nights on Fridays from 7–11 pm: Barry O’Brien (Dec 8); TBA (15/22/29). 13 Lower Rollo Bay Road, Souris.
Gahan House
Acoustic music on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9 pm: Adam MacGregor (Dec 6); Nathan Carragher (7/28); Curtis MacDonald (13); Stephen Szwarc (14/21); Ryan Merry (20); Curtis MacDonald (27). 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
Hunter’s Ale House
Heather, Defuser, +TBA (Dec 2); Matt & Friends (4/11/18); Lieutenant Dan (5/14/19/26); Copycat (9); The Last Forevers (12); Brad & Friends - All Request Ugly Xmas Sweater Party (13); Yak Bak (15); Good Ole Boys (16); Denton Fendor (17); Love Junkies (20); Tyler Childers tribute (21); Box O’ Chocolates (22); Swift Kick); The Darvel Band (29); NYE - band TBA (31). Corner of Kent & Prince Sts, Charlottetown.
John Brown Grille
Fridays at 10 pm and Saturdays from 2–5 pm: Brad & Nick (Dec 1); Chris & Eric (2); Adam & Liam (8/29); Brad & Nick Duo (9); Saul Good Duo (15); Kim Albert (16/30); DJ MOJO Benefit (22); Richie & Brian (23/26 @2 pm). Late night DJ on Saturdays: DJ MOJO (Dec 1); DJ Hood (8/15/22/29). NYE with DJ MOJO (31). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown. 629-2739
The Local Pub and Oyster Bar
Carter MacLellan (Dec 1 @ 7 pm); Patrick and Pierre Tinant (2 @1:30 pm); Luka Hall (3 @6 pm); Lawrence Maxwell 6-9 (5/12/19/26 @6 pm); Holy Hanna (8 @7 pm); Harv MacPherson (10 @5 pm); Marvin Birt & Steve Szwarc (15 @7 pm); Dino Dunsford & Judy Lowe (16 @1:30 pm); Holy Hanna (16 @7 pm); Norman Stewart & Maxine MacLennan (17 @5 pm); Saul Good Duo (22 @7 pm); Carter MacLellan (23 @7 pm); Gypsy Soul Duo (29 @7 pm); Cole Brioux (30 @2 pm); Thatcher MacKay (30 @7 pm); Harv MacPherson (31 @ 5 pm). 202 Buchanan Dr, Charlottetown.
Lone Oak Brew Pub
Thursdays from 6–8 pm: Jordan Cameron (Dec 7); Brandon Howard Roy (14); Brooke MacArthur (21); Cole Brioux (28). 15 Milky Way, Charlottetown.
Lone Oak Brewing Co
Live music on Thursdays from 6–8 pm and Saturdays from 6–9 pm: Ivan Dagiel (Dec 2); Dave Woodside (7); Mike Straton (14); TBA (16/23/28/30); Nathan Carragher (21). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B25
Lone Oak at Fox Meadow
Fridays from 6–8 pm: Fraser MacCallum (Dec 1); Jordan Cameron (8); Adam MacGregor (15); Brad Milligan (22); TBD (29). 167 Kinlock Rd, Stratford.
The Lucky Bean—Stratford
Open Mic with Robert McMillan every Sunday 1–4 pm. 17 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford.
Marc’s Lounge
Dave Woodside (Dec 29 @9 pm); Lawrence Maxwell (30 @9 pm). 125 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
Montague Legion
The Solid Line (Dec 2 @8 pm); Joe Hynes (9/16 @7 pm). 15 Douses Rd, Montague.
Olde Dublin Pub
December 1 Shipwrecks (Dec 1 @10 pm); December 2 Brian Dunn (2 @1:30 pm); Gypsy Soul (2 @10 pm); December 8 Gypsy Soul (8 @10 pm); December 9 Breakwater (9 @1:30 pm); Adam MacGregor and The Foes (9 @10 pm); December 15 Wannabeez (15 @10 pm); December 16 Margarita Wayne (16 @1:30 pm); Saul Good (16 @10 pm); December 22 Vintage 4.0 (22 @10 pm); Hired Guns (23 @10 pm); Holy Hanna (26 @4 pm); Wannabeez (26 @10 pm); Breakwater (27 @8 pm); Stratton & Kays (28 @10 pm); Alyssa Harper Band (29 @10 pm); Tip ‘Er Back (30 @7 pm); MacBeth (30 @10:30 pm); Luka Hall (31 @7 pm); Main Street Bullies (31 @10 pm); Brandon Gillis & David Woodside (Jan 1 @ 4 pm); Brad Milligan (Jan 1 @7 pm). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
Piatto Pizzeria + Enoteca
Fridays from 6–9 pm. 45 Queen St, Charlottetown.
PEI Brewing Company
Acoustic Fridays from 5–8 pm: Brothers MacPhee (Dec 1); Stephen Szwarc (8); Lawrence Maxwell (15); Soul Filter (22); Brad MacMillan (29). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.
RCAF Wing Summerside
Live music on Fridays and Saturdays at 9:30 pm. No cover. wingpei.com. 329 North Market St, Summerside.
Red’s Gold Cup Lounge
Fridays and Saturdays from 8–11 pm. Maxine & Norman (Dec 1/29); Roger Stone (2/15) BluRobin (8); Billy White (9); Breakwater Acoustic (16); Brad Milligan (22/30); Steve Zaat (23). Red Shores, 21 Exhibition Dr, Charlottetown.
The Silver Fox
Fridays at 9:30 pm in The Lounge (unless otherwise noted): Hired Guns (Dec 1); Neon Country (8); Bandioke (12 @8:30 pm in The Den); Ghost Town (15); TBA (22/29); Jingle Bell Rock - Roundabout, Kim Albert and Faces (23 @9:30 pm in The Den, ticketed event); Boxing Day Bash Roundabout, Down With Darby (26 @8 pm, ticketed event); NYE with Dave Doyle Band, (31 - ticketed event); Dave Doyle Band (Jan 1, @2–6 pm). 110 Water St, Summerside.
Page B26 The BUZZ December 2023
TRIVIA Baba’s Lounge
Dec 9 at 7 pm with Greg Webster. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Breakwater at Silver Fox
Tuesdays (Dec 5/12) at 7:30 pm with Carmen Reeves. 110 Water St, Summerside.
Charlottetown Firefighters Club Fridays at 7:30 pm. 89 Kent St, Charlottetown.
The Factory
Entertainment Trivia on Thursdays at 7 pm with Darcy Campbell and Fridays at 8 pm with Doc. 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
The Fiddling Fisherman
Dec 1 at 7 pm with JJ Chaisson. Tickets in advance. 13 Lower Rollo Bay Road Souris.
Hunter’s Ale House
Name That Tune Trivia on Sundays at 9 pm with Andrew Rollins and Entertainment Trivia on Thursdays at 9 pm with Darcy Campbell. 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Coach’s Restaurant & Sports Bar
The Local Pub and Oyster Bar
Thursdays at 7:30 pm. 345 Mt Edward Rd, Charlottetown.
Wednesdays at 7 pm with Campfire Dave. 202 Buchanan Dr, Charlottetown.
Copper Bottom Brewing
Olde Dublin Pub
Fridays at 7 pm with PEI Beer Guy. 567 Main St, Montague.
Thursdays at 7:30 pm with Cone. 131 Sydney St, Charlottetown
Crapaud Curling Club
The Silver Fox
Dec 15 at 8:30 pm with Dan Casely. 20573 Rte 1, Crapaud
In The Lounge on Dec 5 and 12 at 7:30 pm. 110 Water St, Summerside.
The BUZZ December 2023 Page B27
ECMA Awards
SUBMITTED
The East Coast Music Association (ECMA) recently announced that renowned East Coast artists, singer songwriter Rose Cousins and musician and CBC music host Damhnait Doyle, will co-host the 36th annual East Coast Music Awards. The event will be held at the Delta Prince Edward Confederation Ballroom in Charlottetown on May 2 at 8 pm. Hailing from PEI and Rose Cousins (left) and Damhnait Doyle now based in Halifax, NS, Rose Cousins is a mainstay of the Doyle has written not only her own East Coast music scene. Winner of songs, but songs for numerous artists, 11 ECMAs and two JUNOs, and a as well as for film and television. She Grammy nominee, Cousins’ greatest now lends her voice to radio as CBC skills, aside from her acclaimed songMusic’s Weekend Mornings host. She writing, is her constant collaboration is the winner of seven ECMAs and a with artists from all over the world. two-time JUNO nominee. The shared experience of music is what The East Coast Music Awards is the makes Cousins tick. marquee event of the five-day festival, Born and raised in Newfoundland which will be held in Charlottetown and Labrador and now living in from May 1–5, 2024. Tickets are on Toronto, ON, Damhnait Doyle has sale now at ecma.com. The full ECMA been releasing music since the late schedule as well as artist and industry 90’s—as a solo artist, as well as in the nominations will be announced in groups Shaye and The Heartbroken. early 2024.
MUSIC Confederation Centre Choir registration
Registration for the Confederation Centre’s choral music program will re-open from December 12–January 30. Anyone who loves to sing is invited to try a Centre choir—no audition necessary. Rehearsals are held in the Centre’s South Pavilion (former library space), and any curious singers are invited to attend the first rehearsals of 2024 listed below to try it out: Confederation Singers (age 18+) on January 8 from 7–9 pm; Intermediate Youth Chorus (ages 12–18) on January 9 from 6–7:30 pm; Junior Youth Chorus (ages 8–12) on January 11 from 6–7 pm. Visit the confederationcentre.com for more info or reach out to artseducation@confederationcentre.com with any questions.
Free music program
Families with children ages 1–5 years old are invited to attend ABC Music & Me by Kindermusik. The free program, hosted by Family Place, runs on Tuesdays from 9:30–11:30 am until December 19. Sing and play, wiggle and grow, laugh and learn, move and groove at ABC Music & Me by Kindermusik. The music program
helps young children develop pre-literacy and language skills through music and story time. Email familyplace@eastlink.ca to register. Drop-ins are welcome. 75 Central St, Summerside.
Pledge to Pause
The East Coast Music Association’s (EMCA) wellness program, Sound Minds, is calling for the music industry to Pledge To Pause their consumption of alcohol from January 1–31, 2024. Born out of stories and anecdotes from ECMA members, including artists and industry professionals who have attended ECMA one-on-one wellness sessions and peer support groups, this month-long initiative invites participants to pause and reflect on the impact of alcohol in the industry and on individual careers. For artists and industry members who are already exploring a sober lifestyle, the invitation to pause still exists. It can be a time to reflect on other impacts in life, or perhaps to support those who are new to this initiative. Pledge To Pause is not a call to lead a sober lifestyle forever but to understand how it has permeated the music industry. How the participant chooses to continue their relationship with alcohol after the pledge will remain a personal choice, but ECMA hopes each participant will move forward with a better understanding of its impacts. Learn more about Sound Minds and sign up for Pledge To Pause at ecma.com/ health-wellness.
COURTESTY CBC
Rose Cousins and Damhnait Doyle co-host 2024
Page B28 The BUZZ December 2023
Give $50
Get $10 Receive a free $10 CASH CARD when you purchase $50 in MHG Gift Cards from November 25 until December 31. Available at any
locations or online at MHGGIFTCARD.COM