The Buzz - August 2024

Profile: Angie Arsenault by Julie Bull

A breath of art

Angie Arsenault is a multi-disciplinary artist who explores both the mundane and the mystical in her work. “Life influences art, and art influences life.” In her younger days, she was influenced and inspired by musicians such as Evanescence and Sarah McLachlan. “I remember listening to Sarah McLachlan on repeat while painting.”

As a singer-songwriter, artist, musician, and composer (among other things), Angie also considers the ways in which art influences art. Eagerly and excitedly she say that “a visual art piece can inspire a song, or vice versa.”

Born and raised on PEI, Angie’s Acadian background are evidenced in her connection to the land and language. “There is something about island life that helps connect us deeply to the roots of creativity.”

off since then. Before crowdfunding was commonplace, Angie was the first Canadian artist to use the method to fully fund the production and release of an album in 2009. She has three full length albums and has been part of many other musical projects.

Since moving back to PEI, Angie has resumed her painting practice. Once again reminding us that art influences life and life influences art, Angie say that “painting is messy, and the full experience of life is also messy.” As a grounding exercise, she uses PEI sand as one of the elements in some of her paintings. “My art is an exploration of emotion and an abstract reflection of the beautiful PEI landscapes.” Angie’s creative explorations are an extension of her experience: “Painting is like a big exhale, a sigh of relief.”

Along with her prolific visual art practice, she remains deeply immersed in musical expression. “Music is like breathing.” Being drawn to the collaborative, rather than competitive, aspects of music, Angie has also found home in her role as the director for Starlings Choir in Summerside. “I didn’t know I wanted to be a choir director and now I cannot imagine not being one.”

It was important to Angie that the choir was accessible to a wide range of voices, so they don’t have auditions, and everyone is encouraged to sing to their strengths. “Choir is a beautiful example of family, of community, connection, and creativity. I feel so honoured to co-create the space with everyone.”

Angie’s creative curiosities took her to several places, and she lived in Montreal for many years before moving back to PEI in 2021. During her time in Montreal, Angie was dedicated to her vocal coaching practice. She supported countless students over a couple of decades by helping them hone their craft and getting their music out into the world. “People often come to me when they are ready to get outside of their comfort zone and grow into other styles.” Her eyes lit up as she described the joy of supporting other people in their vocal expression. “It is such an honour to witness people grow.”

Along with supporting other musicians and singers, Angie has been creating her own music for decades. She wrote her first song when she was 10 years old and has been writing on and

“It’s about creating safe and fun spaces to connect, with each other and with the art.” The care and connection that Angie brings to a performance extends well beyond what we see on the stage. “It starts with the venue: the space needs to have that vibe I’m looking for to bring us all into a shared experience during the performance.” Leading with her heart, Angie can feel when a venue is the right fit and then is able to build a show with that specific space in mind. She has a similar approach to her musical choices: “I choose music that speaks to me, whether in English or in French. It’s about the feeling.” With the attention and care used to create the show, it is no surprise that the audience feels a sense of “belonging, connection, and togetherness.”

Our conversation mirrored how I imagine Angie’s solo and choir performances go: a wide range of deep, meaningful connections through a series of heart breaking and heart opening moments, underscored by a beautiful glimpse into the depths of emotional expression. “I love to bring people on an emotional journey, whether in music or art.”

JULIE

BULL

Four Centuries & Counting

Exhibition to celebrate Black Islanders at Beaconsfield

The PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation presents the Black Islanders: Four Centuries and Counting exhibition at Beaconsfield Historic House.

Curated by the Foundation with invaluable contribution from families of Black Islanders, this exhibition aims to bring to light the untold stories and significant contributions of the Black community on PEI over the past four centuries.

“We are excited to share this important part of our heritage and invite everyone to learn more about the Black Islanders who have played a crucial role in shaping our Island history,” says Samantha Kelly, Curator of History of the PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation. “This exhibition is a tribute to their enduring legacy and a celebration of their remarkable journey.”

Members of the public are invited to the opening event on August 1 at 11 am, coinciding with Emancipation Day. This special occasion will feature light refreshments, live music, and engaging activities,

such as a tour of Beaconsfield and a walking tour of the historical Bog neighbourhood where many Black Islanders once lived.

Beaconsfield is located at 2 Kent Street, Charlottetown.

Patricia Bourque

Outdoor exhibition at Lennox Island Mi’kmaq Cultural Centre

Beyond The Regalia is a portrait series by Patricia Bourque that highlights Mi’kmaq women, showcasing their beauty, dignity, strength, and sacredness.

As part of Radiant Rural Halls, Patricia will be bringing the exhibition outdoors, surrounding the Lennox Island Mi’kmaq Cultural Centre, 8 Eagle Feather Trail, Lennox Island.

Beyond The Regalia is presented by This Town is Small and will be on view from August 1 until September 11.

Katharine Dagg

Exhibition at Watermark Theatre Art Gallery

Watermark Theatre is displaying the work of artist Katharine Dagg in its Art Gallery until August 31.

Dagg is inspired by nature, the human figure, and faces that tell a story. Gardens and the landscape of PEI also continue to inspire her.

“I am mad about colour,” shares Dagg. “I can be tempted by heady blossoms gossiping over a fence, or luscious fruits and vegetables overflowing in great crockery.”

A BFA graduate from the University of Manitoba, Dagg spent the first 30 years of her artistic career as a potter before transitioning back to painting. Dagg worked as an arts and crafts officer for the Government of the Northwest Territories and in Ottawa for the Canadian Arctic Producers. She

came to PEI in 1974 to teach design at the Handcraft Training Centre, which later became part of Holland College. The Gallery is open to the public Monday–Saturday from 4–7 pm, as well as before and during intermission at evening performances. Watermark is located at 57 Church Hill Ave, North Rustico.

Painting by Katharine Dagg

Brian Burke exhibition

Featuring a selection of works from the HIGGS FIELD series

An exhibition of enigmatic paintings in Brian Burke’s last studio house is on view from August 1 until September 28. The exhibition features a selection of works from the series HIGGS FIELD, along with other works, including paintings never exhibited before.

In his second-to-last series, HIGGS FIELD, the Island-born late figurative painter Brian Burke borrowed this term from physics and used the expression as a metaphor for a series of paintings. These enigmatic works in oil on canvas portray figures in a landscape, revealed as actors on a stage in a play about the elusiveness of our existence.

“Employing an illusion to signify an illusion,”—Brian Burke, 2016. Burke, a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts, drew inspiration from his many studios over the years, with extended stays in New York and Europe. In his last six years, he worked both in Lucerne, Switzerland, and Murray Harbour, PEI. His work was extensively

exhibited in galleries in North America and Europe, including a retrospective at Confederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown. His paintings can be found in numerous collections, including Kunstmuseum Lucerne, Switzerland, The Beaverbrook Art Gallery, Fredericton, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and Confederation Centre Art Gallery, Charlottetown.

Brian Burke House is located at 1345 Main Street in Murray Harbour. The exhibition is open August 1–September 28, Thursday–Saturday, from 1–4 pm. brianburke.ch

Brian Burke, Higgs Field no7, 2016, 30x40in

Illumination

Canadian Oil Glaze Society at Hilda Woolnough Gallery

Illumination, an exhibition showcasing the latest works by the Canadian Oil Glaze Society (CGOS), will be on view from August 6–21 in the Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild. An opening reception is slated for August 9 from 5–7 pm, with a closing reception on August 21 from 2–4 pm. All are welcome to attend.

This exhibition features works by PEI artists Julia Jay, Hazel Spencer, Lorraine Vatcher, Gerry MacWilliams, Elaine Thompson, Rebeka Darylin, Donna Serres, and Kathy Marlene Bailey. Also included are pieces from glaze artists Vanessa Cress Lokos, Cathy Roberts, Steven Lewis, and Isabel Haslam from other parts of Canada.

The works on display encourage visual engagement, capturing light in a way that dominates the experience. The subject matter, colours, and narratives are as varied as the artists, but the common element—the layering techniques passed down from the old masters—gives the show its drama and cohesiveness. Each contemporary work draws viewers in with masterful portrayals of light and skillfully illuminated, backlit colour.

CGOS, formed in 2016 after informal gatherings of artists who

Shipbuilding

studied under the mentorship of Kathy Marlene Bailey, promotes modern applications of glaze oil painting and educates about this nearly lost art in Canada. It also provides an inclusive, engaging social connection for members, promotes the art careers of its artists, and fosters collective exhibitions.

The Guild is located at 111 Queen Street in Charlottetown.

Pop-up exhibit at Confederation Court Mall

The City of Charlottetown’s historic pop-up exhibit, Shipbuilding: The Age of Sail and Beyond, is now open on the first floor of the Confederation Court Mall. It is available for viewing during regular mall hours until August 26.

Created in partnership with the PEI Regiment Museum, the display features historic images and artifacts related to shipbuilding and refit. Shipbuilding was one of the most lucrative industries in PEI’s history. From 1800–1880, almost 4000 wooden ships were constructed across the Island. Many prominent local shipbuilders—such as the Peakes and the Douses—made their fortunes from wooden ships built not only in Charlottetown, but all over the Island. By 1880, the industry which made up about 50 per cent of PEI’s economy

had disappeared for various reasons, the largest being the growing popularity of iron and steel ship hulls. Although the shipbuilding industry would never return to its former glory, local companies like Hall and Stavert and Bruce Stewart and Co. became successful manufacturers of boat parts for merchant vessels.

Long Waves Little Sands by Kathy Marlene Bailey (topleft); Charley by Donna Serres (top-right); Glassy Glads by Lorraine Vatcher

Fix Your Plate by

Tara Reeves

Frozen refreshers

Summer’s scorching sun reminds us all of the importance of staying cool and hydrated during this hot weather. Ditch the sugary store-bought treats that leave you feeling sluggish and opt for delicious, healthy frozen treats that you can whip up at home! Not only are they surprisingly easy and affordable, but making them can be a blast to do with loved ones, creating lasting summer memories.

Take control of what goes into your treats. Skip the processed sugar and artificial flavours that often lurk in store-bought options. Instead, use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to satisfy your sweet tooth, and add fresh fruits for a burst of flavour and a healthy dose of vitamins. Stock up on some awesome ingredients: plump berries, juicy mangoes and creamy bananas to satisfy your sweet tooth. For the base, choose from thick Greek yogurt, rich coconut milk, almond milk, or even pure fruit juice. Don’t forget the fun extras like nuts for some crunch, seeds packed with healthy fats, fresh herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist, or a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips.

for an ice cream alternative that’s both delicious and healthy.

Creating perfect frozen treats is all about the details. The first key is finding the right balance between liquids and solids for the right consistency that is not too icy and not too hard. Experiment with your chosen recipe to achieve the perfect texture. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your molds. There are endless shapes and sizes available, so choose ones that match your recipe or mood.

MARKETS

Charlottetown Farmers Market

The market is open weekly from 9 am–2 pm on Saturdays year-round. Local farmers, crafters, artisans and hot food vendors sell local, organic produce, fish, meats, baked goods, preserves, roasted coffee, specialty teas and much more. Discover the charm of art and lunch at the market on Wednesdays from 9 am–2 pm until September 4. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown. Info: charlottetownfarmersmarket.com

Murray Harbour Farmers market

A selection of fresh seasonal produce, handcrafts, preserves, baked goods, soaps and artwork from local vendors at the Murray Harbour Community Centre. Open weekly on Saturdays until October 12, from 9 am–12 noon. 27 Faye Fraser Dr, Murray Harbour.

Souris Farmers Market

Local farmers, producers, crafters, and artisans offer fresh, locally grown produce, dairy, cheese, flowers, and homemade products weekly on Fridays from 10 am–2 pm until September 27. 140 Main St, Souris.

Summerside Farmers Market

Now, let’s get creative with some recipe ideas. If you’re looking for a visually stunning treat, fruit popsicles are the way to go. Simply mix and match your favourite fruits to create a refreshing hand-held treat with popsicle molds. Craving a healthy twist on a classic? Yogurt parfait pops combine creamy Greek yogurt, granola for added texture, and fresh fruit for a delicious and probiotic-packed treat.

Transform your favourite smoothie recipe into a smoothie bowl by freezing it in a bowl and topping it off with fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds for an extra burst of flavour and crunch. In the mood for a quick and easy bite-sized treat? Just slice bananas, dip them in melted dark chocolate, and freeze them. You can even add fun toppings like crushed nuts or coconut flakes for an extra layer of texture and flavour.

For a light and refreshing option, simply blend some watermelon with a squeeze of lime juice and a touch of honey for sweetness, then freeze the mixture for a cool and icy treat. Believe it or not, avocados make amazing dairy-free ice cream! Blend them with coconut milk and a natural sweetener

Once your treats are frozen, proper storage is key. Keep them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn, which can alter the flavour and texture. This way, your homemade frozen treats will stay delicious for weeks. Finally, don’t forget the presentation. Drizzle some honey, sprinkle on some chopped nuts or coconut flakes, or even add a cute little umbrella for a fun and festive touch. Mix and match your favourite flavour combinations for a refreshing treat that will help you hydrate and beat the heat!

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.

Downtown Charlottetown Farmers Market

The market offers more than 80 local vendors selling fresh local produce, preserves, food service, baked goods, handmade soap, woodwork, knitting, hooked rugs, jewelry, artwork, gift ideas, pottery and more. Open weekly on Sundays from 10 am–2 pm until the end of September. 2 Great George St, Confederation Landing, Charlottetown.

Fall Flavours 2024

Prince Edward Island, Canada’s Food Island, is once again set to host a worldclass culinary experience, as the award-winning Fall Flavours Food and Drink Festival presented by Sobeys returns for its sixteenth edition this September 26 - October 12!

Prepare to feed your soul on a remarkable culinary journey, as Fall Flavours expands to three full weeks of programming - featuring fresh local ingredients, picturesque settings, unique venues, exceptional entertainment, and unforgettable experiences from some of Prince Edward Island’s most-renowned curators of Island cuisine and craft beverages.

This year, Fall Flavours will feature more than 20 authentic culinary-themed events, each showcasing the absolute best of Prince Edward Island food, drink, and culture from communities ‘tip-to-tip’. Guests from across

the province, around the region, and beyond can look forward to an incredible lineup of new, enhanced, and curated experiences, celebrating the very best of Canada’s Food Island!

Tickets and full event information for the PEI Fall Flavours Food & Drink Festival presented by Sobeys are available now at FallFlavours.ca/2024

Art at Macphail Homestead

Nature and culture-themed exhibition

Eighteen Island artists will exhibit their nature and culture-themed artwork in August at the Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead in Orwell, PEI.

Sir Andrew (1864-1938) was a medical professor at McGill University in Montreal and an accomplished writer and editor. One of his books, The Master’s Wife, tells of the ten siblings growing up in this house on this land.

Macphail and other well-known writers and artists belonged to the Pen & Pencil Club in Montreal, an association that met every two weeks in the winter months to share drafts of poetry, essays, fiction, and artistic sketches. Over cigars and drinks, Macphail would converse with other men who would become lifelong friends, including portrait painter Robert Harris, humourist Stephen Leacock, and poet John McCrae.

The exhibiting artists share Sir Andrew’s love of the Island, its beauty and the attempts to capture some of that essence with pen and pencil/ brush. Margaret Wailes, a long-time summer resident, has invited 17 other artists to join her in this exhibition, including Mel Giddings, Goldie Gillis, Carolyn Hessinger, Betty Jenkins,

Mowing the Lawn

Mowing the Lawn, by Climate Artist-inResidence Carrie Allison, is currently on view at the Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation art gallery in St. Peter’s until September 19. The gallery is open to the public this month on Fridays, August 2, 16, and 30, from 9:30 am–4 pm. This research-oriented solo exhibition delves into local ecologies and their national and global connections, and examines the colonial history of monocultures, turf grass, and lawns, while highlighting their climate implications. By experimenting with new materials and blending digital and handmade elements, Mowing the Lawn envisions liberated landscapes through interactive sculptures and mixed media drawings.

Allison is a Cree, Métis, and mixed European descent multidisciplinary visual artist based in K’jipuktuk

Sandi Komst, Helene Larouche, Clair Nantes, Connie O’Brien, Linda Packard, Sylvia Poirier, Henry Purdy, Dagny Rossignol, Donna Serres, Simon Smith, Lorraine Vatcher, LilliAnne Webster, and Brenda Whiteway.

Sandra Martin, journalist and great niece of Sir Andrew, will speak about the Pen & Pencil Club and its impact on its members and society on August 4 as part of the Summer Lunch & Lecture Series on Sundays at 1 pm.

Visit macphailhomestead.ca or call 902 651-2789 to reserve.

Open Tuesday–Friday (9 am– 4:30 pm) and Saturday (11 am–3 pm).

Visitors can enjoy the creative art, desserts, and a walk along the woods path by the stream.

NS). She holds a Master of Fine Arts and Bachelor degrees in Art History and Fine Arts from NSCAD University. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and she received the 2020 Melissa Levin Award from the Textile Museum of Canada. She was also longlisted for the Sobey Art Award in 2021 and 2024. This exhibition is the result of a ten-month Climate Artist-in-Residence program presented by Creative PEI in partnership with the Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation, with This Town is Small as the community partner. It is curated by PEI artist Alexis Bulman. creativepei.ca/cair

Bedeque Museum

New exhibits officially open

The summer’s new exhibits at the Bedeque Area Historical Museum in Central Bedeque are officially open.

Among the new exhibits, guided walking tour, and Loyalist Festival planned for this summer, a new poster tells the story of Islanders of African descent who were brought as slaves by some of the Loyalists. Funded by a PEI Anti-racism Microgrant, the panel exhibit, Black Island and Slavery in Colonial Prince Edward Island, is on view until September 1.

The museum is located in the William Callbeck Centre, 950 Callbeck Street, Central Bedeque. It is open Tuesday–Saturday (10 am–5 pm) and Sunday (1–5 pm).

Orange Mushroom by LilliAnne Webster (left); Squirrel by Goldie Gillis

(Halifax,

Climate Artist-in-Residence Carrie Allison

Exhibition by Carrie Allison

SUBMITTED

ARTISTS & ARTISANS

studios, galleries, collectives

Art Gallery of Tony Diodati

Original works and more by Tony Diodati. Open 10 am–6 pm Monday–Saturday and 12–6 pm on Sundays. (902886-3009). tonydiodati.com. 241 Paynter Rd (of Rte 20), Spring Brook.

Artisans Waterfront

Features the works of more than 40 juried artists and artisans from PEI. Members offer works in all mediums - fiber, clay, wood, silver, glass and paint. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the display of high quality hand crafted items and original works of art. Open daily Monday–Saturday 10 am–5 pm and Sunday 1–5 pm until September 21. artisanswaterfront.ca. 1 Station St, Montague waterfront.

Bailey Studio Gallery

Features specialty pieces, major works, and large, traditional glaze oil waterscape paintings by Kathy Marlene Bailey and professional calibre painting supplies including Gamblin oils and Rosemary & Co. brushes. Email or call ahead (902-962-3642, kmb@professionalart.ca). 119757 Shore Rd, Little Sands.

Bedford Station Gallery

Displays artists’ creations that guests can enjoy and offers gardens to stroll. Open daily 1:30–5:30 pm beginning July 1. Evenings and weekends by appointment. 96 Rte 6 in Bedford.

Birch Tree Gallery

Showcases Mi’kmaq woven baskets, painting, pottery, beaded jewelry and more. Open daily 10 am–6 pm and Sundays 12–5 pm. (902-730-2004, birchtreegallerypei@gmail.com). 8 Main St, Victoria-by-the-Sea.

Creative Rebel Studio

The studio features a boutique and gallery. A number of programs are available throughout the summer, including workshops for adults, programs for kids, and open studio drop in times to make use of the studio and materials in unique ways. Open Wednesday–Friday 12–5 pm and Saturdays 10 am–5 pm. (902-313-1783, info@creativerebelstudio.com). 538 Route 4, Montague.

Details Fine Art Gallery

Features original art by prominent Island artists as well as fine art from national and international artists in a wide variety of media and subject matter, including paintings, sculpture, art glass, ceramics, and designer jewellery. Island artists include: Gale Colpitts Abbey, Grace Curtis, Connie O’Brien, Arlene Rice, Helen Rowlands, Sea Clay Pottery, Richard Vickerson. Open Monday–Saturday, 10 am–5 pm. (902-8922233). detailsfineart.com. 166 Richmond St, Charlottetown.

Dunes Island Art Gallery

Features handcrafted paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, woodwork, metalwork and more. Open daily 9 am–8 pm. dunesgallery.ca. 3622 Brackley Point Rd, Brackley Beach.

Ellen’s Creek Gallery

Dedicated to promoting PEI artists and producing high quality custom framing. Open Monday–Friday (9 am–5 pm). 525 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

Galerie La Palette

Offering works from local artists, the gallery showcases paintings, prints, photography and sculptures. Open Tuesday–Sunday 11 am–4:30 pm. (902-854-3256, jeannetteblaquiere@gmail.com). Located in the yellow building at Village musical acadien. 1745 Rte 124, Abram-Village.

Gaudreau Fine Crafts Gallery

A unique collection of pottery, wood, weaving, paintings, glass and jewelry by Maritime artisans. Open Tuesday–Sunday 11 am–4 pm. (902-963-2273, woodmagic@gmail.com). 11 Grand Pere Point Rd, Rte 242, South Rustico.

Island Girl Studio

Features artist Donna White’s 2024 collection of watercolours and greeting cards from her 2020–2024 originals. Studio Grand Opening on August 6 at 6 pm. Everyone welcome. RSVP is required. (dmwhite775@gmail.com, 902394-3547). 65 Anderson Rd, St. Peter’s.

Island Winds

Features musically tuned, Islandmade windchimes. (1-800-824-9463). Islandwindcraft.com. 3827 Millvale Rd, South Granville.

J. Bergman Art Studio

Features unique, edgy and contemporary original paintings by internationally acclaimed Summerside artist Janos Bergman. Viewings are available by appointment. (janosbergman917@gmail. com, 902-786-3614). bergmanartpei.ca. 123 Heron Ave, Summerside.

Jeanette Walker Jewellery

Designs custom jewelry and repurposes and redesigns heirlooms and outdated jewelry. Doorstep pickup and delivery offered. (jeanette@jeanettewalkerjewellery.com, 902-393-6376). jeanettewalkerjewellery.com.

Julia Purcell Art Booth

Original art on display at Julia Purcell Art Booth, open Wednesdays and Saturdays 9 am–4 pm at the Charlottetown Farmer’s Market. (Email hello@juliapurcell.ca to register for watercolour lessons). 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown.

June Ellis’s Studio

Features original paintings of landscapes, seascapes and lighthouses, prints, notecards and bookmarks by PEI artist June Ellis. Commissions and appointments available (juneellisartist@gmail.com, 902-439-8774). juneellis.com. Rte 12, East Bideford, Ellerslie.

Karen Gallant Gallery In Rustico

Features paintings, prints and unique finds by artist Karen Gallant. Open Tuesday–Saturday 10 am–4 pm. (902-9633999). karengallant.com. 1980 Route 243, Rustico (second level, Gallant’s Country Food Market, enter through store).

Kensington Art Co-op Gallery

Artwork features an eclectic blend of local artists’ works including Debbie Bryanton, Elaine Campanaro, Sharon Craig, June Ellis, Shirley Ferguson, Sheila Forsyth, Karen Fullerton, Sandy Gallant, Lise Genova, Juanita Glenn, Shirley McLeod, Susan Maxfield, Esther Mosher, Dawn Riley and Ron Somers. New members Laurie Anderson, Susan Ferguson and Pat Lush as well as the work of 18 other Island artists also featured. Host artists often paint on site. Open daily 10 am–4 pm. (902-886-0331). 27 Commercial St, Kensington (behind Island Stone Pub).

Knit Pickers PEI Studio

Features Canadian goods only, including wool, knitting needles, knitting and weaving accessories and wool pellets made from waste wool. Margaret MacEachern is the on-site artisan, instructor and designer. She offers weekday knitting workshops for various skill levels. Visit knitpickerspei.com/ workshops for info and to register. Open Tuesday–Saturday (10 am–4 pm) and Tuesdays (7:30–9 pm). 566 Line Rd, Rte 13, Mayfield.

Kro In The Sky Art Studio

An assortment of dichroic and seaglass jewelry, stained glass, mosaics and fine art. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10 am–5 pm. (902-213-6807). krointhesky.com. 1800 Point Prim Rd, Belfast.

McAskill’s Fine Crafts Studio

Featuring furniture and crafts, pottery, fine art, metal work, glass and giftware by PEI and Atlantic artisans. (902-5663416). mcaskillwoodworking.com. 26 Beasley Ave, Charlottetown.

Messy Crow Studio

Showcases needle felting and works of a dozen Maritime artisans along with some Fair Trade wool and fibre arts. Learn and Lunch packages available. Open Tuesday–Friday 10 am–4 pm and Saturdays 10 am–1 pm. (messycrowpei@ gmail.com). Rte 335, St Catherine’s Rd, Souris.

Michael Stanley Pottery

Showcases pottery by Michael Stanley and other Island artisans. Open daily. (902-393-2339). michaelstanleypottery. com. 22 Howard St, Victoria-by-the-Sea.

Northern Watters Knitwear

Features handcrafted sweaters, shawls, stoles, ponchos, and PEI arts and crafts items. Open daily 9 am–8 pm, Saturdays 9 am–6 pm and Sundays 11 am–5 pm. nwknitwear.com. 150 Richmond St, Charlottetown.

PEI Crafts Council

Displays two floors of handmade local crafts from 134 craftmakers on PEI. Craft workshops are offered outside on deck during July & August. Open daily 10 am–6 pm and Sundays 12–5 pm. peicratftscouncil.com. 98 Water St, Charlottetown.

PEI Fox Den

Featuring the works of over 60 local artists and artisans including pottery, apparel, candles, soaps, visual art, knitted goods, embroidery, woodwork, chocolate, tea, coffee, honey, maple syrup, music, FloaTEA treats and the home of the original PEI Fox Mug™. Open daily year-round except Mondays. pei-foxden. ca. 2852 Rte 1A, North Bedeque.

PhoArts

Studio

Showcases photography, visual and digital art by photographer and artist Leona Arsenault. The studio features her work on canvas, fine art paper, metal, acrylic and other materials. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10 am–5 pm. (902-854-2543). 108 John Paul Rd, Abram-Village.

Silkwalker Originals Studio and Fine Crafts

Features quality Island crafted products, including hand-painted silk art and accessories, Nessya’s Gems, local pottery, original art and prints, hand crafted paper, wood and leather work. Open daily 12–6 pm and by appointment. (902330-8188, heather@silkwalker.com). silkwalker.com. Harbourview Dr, Seawalk Park and Boutiques, North Rustico.

Stanley Bridge Studios

Island crafts, jewelry, pottery, art, woodwork, ironwork, home and garden decor, clothing, accessories. Open daily 10 am–5 pm. (902-886-2800). 10090 Rte 6, Stanley Bridge.

Susan Christensen Art Gallery

Paintings, photo-etching, prints and cards by Susan Christensen, who often paints on site. Open Tuesday–Sunday 11 am–4 pm. (902-963-2223). susanchristensenart.com. 11 Grand Pere Point Rd, Route 242, South Rustico (upper level, Gaudreau Fine Crafts Gallery).

Thompson’s Woodcraft

Features wood-turning by Wilfred Thompson. Open daily 9 am–6 pm and Sunday by appointment. (902-887-3459). thompsonswoodcraft.ca. 2979 Rte 1A, North Bedeque.

Trailside Art Gallery

Features works of local artists. Open Thursday–Monday 10 am–4 pm and by appointment. (902-778-0075). trailsideart. ca. Harbourview Dr, Seawalk Park and Boutiques, North Rustico.

Breadalbane Gallery

Exhibition features Joan Cullen and Dominique Cruchet

Joan Cullen and Dominique Cruchet are the featured artists at this month’s show opening at the Breadalbane Gallery on August 9 from 6–8 pm. The artists will give a talk about their work during the evening.

Cullen, born in Charlottetown, PEI, studied philosophy and art in Ottawa and Paris. Cruchet, born in Chinon, France, studied photography and art history, also in Ottawa and Paris. The pair has traveled and worked extensively across Africa, South America, Asia, Europe, and Canada, exhibiting regularly in public institutions and home galleries.

Cruchet’s work focuses on blackand-white and digital photography for

large projections, videos, and prints, influenced by documentary photographer Eugene Atget. Drawing is central to Cullen’s practice, with works in ink, crayon, and oil reflecting on “the nature of nature.”

The opening reception on August 9 will provide an opportunity for attendees to meet the artists and learn more about their work and their approach to their art practice.

The Breadalbane Gallery, located at 4023 Dixon Road, has curators on hand Wednesdays from 12–3 pm in August. It is open Tuesday (11 am–3 pm), Wednesday (9 am–1 pm), Thursday (4–8 pm), and by request (902-303-8333, mjanowicz@hotmail.com).

EXPLORE THE GALLERY

CURRENT EXHIBITIONS

ERICA RUTHERFORD: HER LIVES AND WORKS

NOW UNTIL JANUARY 5

This exhibition surveys the fascinating and multifaceted career of Erica Rutherford with over 100 works that explore themes of persona and gender, home and landscape, the search for identity and community.  Rutherford’s work is included in the 2024 Venice Biennale.

YELLOWKNIFE FOREVER!

NOW UNTIL SEPTEMBER 29

The North has a particular allure, often imagined in paradoxical extremes. The seven artists in this exhibition use local vernacular, photography, scrap plywood found at the dump, or moosehide sewn into gothic forms, to explore the anti-picturesque character of northern life.

TOGETHER APART | UNDER ONE ROOF

Aganetha Dyck, Reva Stone, Diana Thorneycroft

NOW UNTIL OCTOBER 27

This exhibition celebrates themes of feminist art practice, the creative power of relationships, and the interplay between human and non-human.

SAVE WITH A SUMMER GALLERY PASS!

Erica Rutherford, The Diver, 1968, acrylic on canvas, Collection of the Rutherford Family, Prince Edward Island

Curated by Denise Lawson and Angela Somerset Originally presented at Comox Valley Art Gallery

Curated by Sarah Swan

Supported by the Northwest Territories Arts Council

Curated by Pan Wendt

Joan Cullen, The Trail of the Wind (left); Dominique Cruchet, Le vent, route de Fouscais, 2022

EXHIBITS

galleries, museums...

Acadian Museum of PEI

On view: a new textile exhibit featuring items from the museum’s own artifacts collection; and the permanent exhibit and video, The Island Acadians: The Story of a People. Acadian genealogy resources are available and there is a gift shop on site. 23 Main Dr E, Miscouche.

Beaconsfield Historic House

The PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation presents the Black Islanders: Four Centuries and Counting exhibition, curated by the Foundation with invaluable contribution from families of Black Islanders. The public is invited to the opening event on August 1 at 11 am, coinciding with Emancipation Day. There will be light refreshments, live music, activities, and a walking tour of the historical Bog neighbourhood where many Black Islanders once lived. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Bedeque Area Historical Museum

Over 30 exhibits are on view, including: United Empire Loyalist; Black Island and Slavery in Colonial Prince Edward Island; a new poster about shipbuilding at Bedeque and the significant role of the Pope family; Clocks of the Island; and Wayne Wright–100 Cartoons. Historic children’s games at the Loyalist Monument Park are available. Admission is charged except when noted. Open Tuesday–Saturday (10 am–5 pm) and Sunday (1–5 pm) until September 1. William Callbeck Centre, 950 Callbeck St, Central Bedeque.

Breadalbane Gallery

This month’s show opens August 9 from 6–8 pm with featured artists Joan Cullen and Dominique Cruchet. Artists include Patricia Lush, Sabine Nuesch, Xin Liu, Joan Sutton, Vian Emery, Zoe Novaczek, Denise Livingston, Will Baker, Marianne Janowicz, Silver Frith, Laura Bain, Adrianna Chandler, Anna Marie FitzGerald, Yuzhu Yang, Erin Veitch, Gail Rhyno and Samantha Joyce. Curators are on hand Wednesdays from 12–3 pm in August. Open Tuesday (11 am–3 pm), Wednesday (9 am–1 pm), Thursday

(4–8 pm), and by request (902-303-8333, mjanowicz@hotmail.com). 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.

Brian Burke House

An exhibition of paintings by Brian Burke, including a selection of works from the series HIGGS FIELD, is on view from August 1–September 28 in the artist’s last studio house. Open Thursday–Saturday (1–4 pm). 1345 Main St, Murray Harbour. brianburke.ch

Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation

Mowing the Lawn by Climate Artist-inResidence, Carrie Allison, is on view until September 19. Open to the public on Fridays August 2, 16, and 30, from 9:30 am–4 pm, in St. Peters Bay. This exhibition is the result of a 10-month Climate Artist-in-Residence program presented by Creative PEI in partnership with the Centre, with This Town is Small as the community partner. It is curated by Alexis Bulman.

Charlottetown Library Learning Centre

On view in the Art Corridor: An Unexpected Series in Unexpected Times by Carol Moffatt closes September 6. Presented by This Town is Small. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Confederation Centre Art Gallery

On view: Yellowknife Forever! until September 29; Together Apart Under One Roof by Aganetha Dyck, Diana Thorneycroft, Reva Stone until October 27; Erica Rutherford: Her Lives and Works until January 5; and The Sweet Spot until January 26. Open daily. Summer admission rates are in effect until October; admission is by donation on Thursdays from 5–8 pm. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown. confederationcentre. com/artgallery

Confederation Court Mall

Created in partnership with the PEI Regiment Museum, the City of Charlottetown’s historic pop-up exhibit, Shipbuilding: The Age of Sail and Beyond, is on view until August 26. Randy Ross, Frank Stewart and the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation generously contributed to the exhibit. The Canadian

Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild’s travelling book arts show, Kindred Spirits—The Lucy Maud Montgomery Legacy as Interpreted by Contemporary Book Artists, closes August 23. Open during regular mall hours. 123 Grafton St, first floor, Charlottetown.

Cornwall Library Art Gallery

Coming Back: a return to roots, the ocean, and making art by Anne Marie Fitzgerald is on view until September 6. Contact the library at 902-629-8415 for info on displaying in the gallery. Open Tuesday–Wednesday (1–8:30 pm) and Thursday–Saturday (9:30 am–12:30 pm and 1–5:30 pm). 15 Mercedes Dr, Town Hall, Cornwall.

Eptek Art & Culture Centre

As the Crow Flies, featuring over 50 Island artists, is on view until September 27. Visit the permanent exhibition on the history and architecture of Summerside. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Farmers’ Bank of Rustico and Doucet House

Visit the first peoples bank in North America and tour PEI’s oldest home to learn how Acadians lived. 2188 Church Rd, Rte 243, Rustico. farmersbank.ca

The Gallery Coffee House & Bistro

The artist rotation presented by the PEI plein air artist group known as #groupoffivepei (Gloria Wooldridge, LiliAnne Webster, Lori-Ann Lingley, Kim Jabbour, and Simonne Smith), continues until September 3. 82 Great George St, Charlottetown. thegallerypei.ca

Hilda Woolnough Gallery

P.O.T.S! by Leo (Liu, Xin) closes August 3. Illumination, an exhibition by the Canadian Oil Glaze Society is on view August 6–21. All are encouraged to attend the opening reception on August 9 at 5 pm and/or the closing reception on August 21 at 2 pm. This exhibition features PEI artists Julia Jay, Hazel Spencer, Lorraine Vatcher, Gerry MacWilliams, Elaine Thompson, Rebeka Darylin, Donna Serres, and Kathy Marlene Bailey, and Canadian artists Vanessa Cress Lokos, Cathy Roberts, Steven Lewis, and Isabel Haslam. The Guild, 111 Queen St, Charlottetown. theguildpei.com

Kings Playhouse Gallery

Coordinated and curated by Artisans Waterfront, the current show in the gallery space at Kings Playhouse features the works of about a dozen painters and one quilter who are members of Artisans Waterfront. 65 Graton St, Georgetown.

Lefurgey Cultural Centre

Meet Elaine, a group exhibition by members of the Lady Slipper Rug Hooking Guild, is on view until September 30. Admission is by donation. Open weekdays. 205 Prince St, Summerside.

Lennox Island Mi’kmaq Cultural Centre

Beyond The Regalia, a portrait series by Patricia Bourque, is on view outdoors surrounding the Centre from August 1–September 11 as part of Radiant Rural Halls, presented by This Town is Small. 8 Eagle Feather Trail, Lennox Island.

MacNaught History Centre and Archives Art Gallery

Rug Hooking Creations of Jessie Thompson is currently on view. Open Tuesday–Saturday (10 am–4 pm). 75 Spring St, Summerside.

PEI Fox Den

Discover how PEI experienced its very own gold rush and became the birthplace and headquarters of a worldwide industry filled with colourful characters, high stakes and high fashion. Interactive tours available. Admission is by donation. 33 Summer St, Summerside.

Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead

On view through August is the work of Island artists: Margaret Wailes, Mel Giddings, Goldie Gillis, Carolyn Hessinger, Betty Jenkins, Sandi Komst, Helene Larouche, Clair Nantes, Connie O’Brien, Linda Packard, Sylvia Poirier, Henry Purdy, Dagny Rossignol, Donna Serres, Simon Smith, Lorraine Vatcher, LilliAnne Webster, and Brenda Whiteway. Open Tuesday–Friday (9 am–4:30 pm) and Saturday (11 am–3 pm). 271 MacPhail Pk Rd, Orwell.

Summerside Interpretive Centre

On view this summer is the Culture Summerside exhibit, Summerside and the RCAF—the town’s interest in flight, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force in 2024. Open Tuesday–Saturday (10 am–5 pm). 33 Summer St, Summerside.

Watermark Theatre Art Gallery

Works by Katharine Dagg are on view until August 31. Open Monday–Saturday (4–7 pm), and during evening performances (before and at intermission). 57 Church Hill Ave, North Rustico.

Wyatt House Museum

Impressive historic house collection, guided tours, and more. Purchase tickets at Lefugey Cultural Centre, 205 Prince St, Summerside.

This Town is Small AGM

This Town is Small will hold their annual general meeting at 6 pm on August 15 in the Hilda Woolnough Gallery at the Guild. All are welcome to attend, but only members in good standing have voting rights. Members are asked to ensure their membership is in good standing beforehand. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Paint Kensington and around

The Kensington Art Co-operative Gallery invites plein air artists to participate in this year’s three-day plein air event, running from September 6–8. The event will include painting sessions and a sale of new works. Painting can begin any time after 8:30 am at different locations each day. Kensington and its surrounding villages, towns, and rural areas offer plenty of inspiration for plein air painters, including fascinating architecture, quaint fishing villages and wharfs, hills, fields, beaches, and shorelines. This year, participants will explore locations further west on the Island, such as Tyne Valley and the Egmont area, so please consider this when booking accommodation. A fee is required to join, and the gallery will take a percentage of the selling price. Registration is limited to 40 artists. For details and to register, email sheilafforsyth@gmail.com. Payment can be made

via e-transfer to kensingtonpeiartgallery@gmail.com. Further information will be provided upon registration.

PEI Quilt Hang Out Day

Community Quilt Hang Out Day PEI will be celebrating their love for quilts by putting them on display across PEI on August 3. Everyone is invited to share their enjoyment of this long standing craft on PEI by hanging their quilt(s) out on the clothesline, from a deck/porch, from a window, a lighthouse, a business or other display ideas. The quilts can be a friend’s, a family member’s, a gift, a purchase or a find. Take a photo(s) of the displayed quilt(s) and share on FB and IG @peiquilthangoutday or by email peiquilthangoutday@gmail.com. Rain date is August 4.

Art Talk with Margaret Wales

Margaret Wailes, a long time seasonal resident of PEI, will offer a talk on her recent shift of abstract art following a venerable career in traditional oil painting. The talk will take place at Bedford Station Gallery and Gardens from 2–4 pm on August 11. Visitors can enjoy Margaret’s work and the work of other local artisans in the gallery, as well as the landscaped gardens. Admission is free. 96 Rte 6, Bedford.

Eptek scavenger hunt

Visitors of all ages are invited to test their skills (and eyesight) at Eptek Art & Culture Centre’s Scavenger Hunts. Try to find all 20 images. For upcoming activities, call 888-8373, follow @Eptek.Centre, or visit peimuseum.com. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

FOOD & DRINK

Amuse Bouche at Roma

Guests are invited to immerse themselves in a journey to the early 1700s at the Roma at Three Rivers National Historic Site with Amuse Bouche, a culinary event celebrating the rich cultural heritage of PEI’s early French settlers. Events take place August 6 and 20. Each evening blends authentic cuisine and music in the historic setting. Savour the essence of PEI’s heritage with culinary creations by Chef Robert Pendergast. Attendees will be transported to the heart of the 1730s with the folk songs and storytelling of Michael Pendergast. Availability is limited. Secure a spot at Eventbrite or roma3rivers.com.

Canoe Cove Strawberry Social

A Strawberry Social will be held on August 7 from 6–8 pm at the Canoe Cove School (1066 Canoe Cove Rd). All are invited to join, meet friends and neighbours, and enjoy Island strawberries, complete with ice cream, biscuits and a beverage. There will also be a bake sale of homemade baked goods. All proceeds will go towards the Foundation Fund for the heritage Canoe Cove School building.

Loyalist Supper

A Loyalist Supper will be held at Bedeque United on August 9 from 6–8 pm, kicking off Bedeque Museum’s Loyalist Heritage Festival. Live entertainment will be provided by Roy Johnstone. The menu will include turkey dinner and strawberry shortcake. To reserve, email bedequemuseum@gmail.com or call 902887-3009. The church is located at 1230 Callbeck St, Central Bedeque.

Blueberry & Ice-cream Social

The annual Blueberry and Ice-cream Social, held this year during the Loyalist Heritage Festival presented by Bedeque Area Historical Museum, will take place in the Loyalist Monument Park from 2–4 pm on August 11. Musical

entertainment will be provided by Luci Blu. 945 Callbeck St, Central Bedeque. bedequemuseum.ca

Ice Cream Social

In celebration of Island author Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 150th birthday, the PEI Preserve Company is hosting a series of events this summer, including an ice cream social and live entertainment from 12–2 pm on August 18 with a local brass band. Admission is by donation at PEI Preserve Company, located in New Glasgow. Info: @ peipreservecompany

Open House & Cake Auction

An Open House and Cake Auction fundraiser will take place at Cape Bear Lighthouse and Marconi Station on August 24 from 2–4 pm. Rain date is August 31. 42 Black Brook Rd, Murray Harbour. Info: capebearlighthouse.com

Kings Playhouse High Tea

Kings Playhouse in Georgetown is offering the timeless tradition of high tea every Tuesday from 2–4 pm. Elevate an afternoon with high tea service set against the backdrop of the A.A. MacDonald Memorial Gardens. Book by appointment at 902-652-2053. kingsplayhouse.com

High Tea at PEI Preserve Co

The PEI Preserve Company is offering a refined high tea experience this summer. Guests can savour a selection of teas, pastries, and crudités. Reservations can be made at preservecompany.com or 902-964-4300. Located at PEI Preserve Company, New Glasgow. Info: @ peipreservecompany

For the Love of Maud: Afternoon Tea

Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead is hosting Afternoon Tea on Wednesdays and Fridays from 2–4 pm in August and September in celebration of L. M. Montgomery’s 150th birthday. The event includes amusing stories connected to Lucy Maud Montgomery’s visit to the Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead in Orwell, PEI. The Governor General at the time, Earl Grey, wished to meet the creator of Anne of Green Gables. A Q&A session will follow. Reservations are required; call 902-651-2789 or email macphailhomstead@gmail.com to reserve.

Last call on the wall

Exhibitions closing this month

P.O.T.S!

Leo (Liu, Xin)

Until August 3

Hilda Woolnough Gallery, Charlottetown

The title, an inverted “STOP,” symbolizes the artist’s exploration and commitment to the relentless spirit of art. Leo’s journey through various countries, roles, and climates mirrors his love for the PEI Marathon, which he has completed multiple times. This exhibition, a gift to the community, reflects his thoughts on climate, cultural integration, father-son relationships, sports, and life.

Kindred Spirits—

The Lucy Maud Mongomery Legacy as Interpreted by Contemporary Book Artists

Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild

Until August 23

Memory Album of Anne by Dea Fisher

An homage to L.M. Montgomery’s life and literary contributions, marking what would have been her 150th birthday, the juried exhibition highlights the vibrancy and innovation within the book arts community and includes 37 meticulously crafted pieces by CBBAG members. Each piece is a testament to the timeless impact of Montgomery’s work, celebrating her as a source of inspiration.

Arlene Rice exhibit and sale

One day event at Details Fine Art Gallery—Aug 26

A one-day exhibition of the late artist Arlene Rice’s paintings will be held at Details Fine Art Gallery on August 26 from 6–8 pm.

Arlene founded Details Gallery in 1999 and developed long-lasting relationships with many renowned Island, Maritime, Canadian, and international artists. As a painter, Arlene was mostly self-taught, having attended workshops with Brian Atyeo, Dianna Shyne, Sandi Komst, and Henry Purdy. The landscape of rural and urban PEI provided much inspiration. Her work is sometimes whimsical, capturing moments in time, from observations of people going about the city, whether they are off to work or school, sitting on a bench or meeting an old friend.

Born in Cardigan, PEI, Arlene lived her entire life on the Island and passed away in Charlottetown in April 2024.

All works will be for sale. A

portion of the proceeds will go to Arlene’s charities of choice: the Island Nature Trust and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation. Details is located at 166 Richmond Street (Victoria Row), Charlottetown. detailsfineart.com

Artwork by Leo (Liu, Xin)

ART LEARNING

Rock Barra workshops

Rock Barra Artist Retreat offers an array of workshops, including Yoga of Sound with Teresa Doyle (Aug 2–4); The Practice of Art and Breath with Nicole Ferris and Riley Smith (9–11); Plein Art Day (15); Sonic Yin Yoga for Creativity with Megan MacDonald and Trevor Grant (17); Seaweed with Irene Novaczek (25); Singing Spirits—Words & Wonder with Julie Pellissier-Lush and Yvette Doucette (Aug 30–Sep 1); and Intro to Contact Improvisation with Michael Phillips (Sep 14). For more info, fees, and to register, visit teresadoyle. com/rock-barra-retreat.

Rug hooking workshop

A two-day beginner’s rug hooking workshop with Charlene and Debbie of Periwinkle Laine will be held on August 6 and 13. Hosted by Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside, the easy-to-follow workshop is called Island Tapestry: Hooking the PEI Landscape. The fee includes all materials and equipment. To register, call 902-888-8373.

Embroidery workshops

Unraveling Joy and Mill + Birch are continuing their beginner embroidery workshops at Cavendish Corner on Wednesdays in August at 1 pm. Workshops include: Upcycled Embroidery (Aug 7); Slow Stitching & Mindful Making (14); and Learn How to Embroider Anne (21). Beginner classes are also offered on Thursdays at the PEI Crafts Council in Charlottetown at 10 am: Layered Fabric Embroidery (Aug 1); and Felt Appliqué (8). Fees include all necessary materials. Info/register: unravelingjoy.com/shop/embroidery-workshops

Workshop series at Eptek

Eptek Art & Culture Centre’s artist-led Wednesday Workshops are held in the Summerside gallery every Wednesday in August and September. Visitors can view the live demos but registration is required to participate. The August workshops are: Peggy Miles’ Bookmark Making (Aug 7); Joan Savage’s Acrylic on Driftwood (14); Penelope Player’s Intro to Crazy Quilt Embroidering (21); and Caseley Currie’s Tatting (28). For info, pricing, and to register, call 902-888-8373.

Basket weaving workshops

Mi’kmaq Elder Noella Moore will instruct basket weaving workshops bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 9:30 am–12:30 pm at the Birchtree Gallery in Victoria. Upcoming workshops include: Round Basket (August 13); and God’s Eye Basket (August 27). The fee includes all necessary materials. To pre-register, call 902-730-2004.

Sea glass & stained-glass workshops

Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside is hosting Sea Glass & Stained-Glass workshops with guidance and assistance from glass artist Lynne Provance. The two-day workshops take place once a month: August 20 and 22; and September 10 and 12. For details, fees, and to register, call 902-888-8373.

Pottery in the Park

The fall session of classes at the PEI Potters Studio, located in Victoria Park in Charlottetown, will begin in early September 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. Participants will have the opportunity to create their own pieces from start to finish. Adult beginner classes will be held on Mondays and Tuesdays (choose one) from 6:30–9:30 pm beginning the week of September 9. Classes for children ages 9–14 will be held on Saturdays beginning September 7. There will be a class from 9–11 am for ages 9–11 and one from 11:30 am–1:30 pm for ages 12+. Registration is online and will be open August 26 from 7–8 pm. 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. Updates on classes, and the link to the online registration form, is available at peipottersstudio.ca. Info: registration@peipottersstudio.ca

PEI Crafts Council summer workshops on the deck

PEI Crafts Council members offer summer workshops on the back deck at 98 Water St, Charlottetown. Info/register: peicraftscouncil.com

“GREAT ART PICKS UP WHERE NATURE ENDS.” —Marc Chagall

Dave Brosha

Dave Brosha

ART WANTED

Call to artists: Rooted in Art

The City of Charlottetown is calling for applications for the fifth edition of Rooted in Art, offering Island residents an opportunity to create temporary art installations inspired by Charlottetown’s trees. Rooted in Art celebrates the vital role trees play in the urban environment. From the aesthetic beauty to the essential services trees provide—such as air purification, wind blocking, noise buffering and stormwater management—this initiative seeks to deepen the community’s connection with nature and highlight the importance of the urban forest. This year, six artists will be selected to create art installations on or around their corresponding tree, which will be showcased for two weeks in October. Each artist will be eligible to submit one application. Submissions can be sent via email to kgore@charlottetown.ca or delivered to City Hall at 199 Queen St. The deadline for submissions is 4 pm on August 9. charlottetown.ca/roots

Call for entry: A New Definition of Home

The PEI Crafts Council (PEICC) is calling for entries from all Island craft makers for their exhibition, A New Definition of Home Craft items will be juried by a curator appointed by the PEICC for artistic integrity, originality, and level of technique for their medium. Entry deadline is August 15. For the full guidelines, more info, and to apply, visit peicraftscouncil.com.

Call for artisans: Stories in Stitches

Stories in Stitches returns from September 10–14. The event, hosted by the Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild and St. Paul’s, showcases quilts, hooked rugs, needlecraft and other fabric arts, and attracts over 1200 visitors. Organizers are calling for artisans and craftspersons, including quilters, rug hookers and other needlework artists, to enter the exhibition. The registration deadline is August 16. There is no registration fee. The main contact,

Carol MacDonald, can be reached at carolmcdnld70@gmail.com or 902-2182213. Other contacts are Penelope Player (pplayer@pei.sympatico.ca) and Charlene Miller (keppochbeach@icloud.com, 902 388-8970). Register at stpaulschurch.ca.

Call for proposals: Test Press

This Town is Small (TTIS) members in good standing are eligible to submit a proposal for Test Press, an artistic development opportunity for TTIS members to use the Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild for self-directed experimentation. It is a celebration of trying new things, failure, fine tuning and test driving. Artists are invited to use this opportunity for creating new work, hosting experimental events/workshops, exploring new processes in the gallery space and more. Bring ideas, dreams and tests to the space to try them out. Test Press projects will take place throughout the month of October. Those who are not currently a member are welcome to become one to participate in this program. The deadline for proposal entries is 12 midnight on September 15. View the full call online at thistownissmall.com/testpress. Info: info@thistownissmall.com

Call for submissions from Mary Curtis’ art students

Island artist Mary Curtis is organizing an exhibit of works created by her current and former art students over the last 40 years. She plans to host an open house art show on September 21 in the Mayflower Room at the Stratford Town Hall. Curtis hopes that each student will bring a favourite art piece to display. It can be work from her art classes or another piece they have created and would love to share. Contact Mary Curtis at artofmarycurtis@gmail.com to sign up for this event. artofmarycurtis.com

Call for studio visits

This Town is Small is interested in meeting with artists that have a body of work that is already in development and will be ready for exhibition in February 2025. The organization is available to meet wherever artists can share their work with them, whether that is a creation space or another venue (ie coffee shop, meeting room). Meetings can be done virtually or in person depending on the artist’s preferences and staff availability to travel. Info: info@thistownissmall.com

Night Flight

Outdoor film screening event—Aug 24

The Charlottetown Film Society, in partnership with FilmPEI and Club Red Productions, presents Night Flight, an outdoor film screening event taking place on August 24 at the Victoria Park Pavilion. This unique event aims to celebrate local filmmakers, share local stories, and enjoy films under the stars.

Night Flight is free to attend and will showcase a collection of PEImade films and artworks centered around the theme of ‘crows.’ The evening’s lineup includes The Crow Agenda, a documentary by Jason Arsenault and Jeremy Larter, and the dramatic short The Queen of the Crows by Harmony Wagner. Additionally, a new work by filmmaker Dotun Adedoyin will be commissioned and premiered.

Night Flight has partnered with several arts organizations for this event: Art in the Open will present the beloved March of the Crows, which will take place before the film screenings; This Town is Small will curate a second screen of video art and photography by artists such as Patricia Bourque and Millefiore Clarkes; and The Guild will also project video art in collaboration with Night Flight, as well as offer workshop space for parade participants to build and prepare their crow costumes.

Night Flight is designed to strengthen the presence of the filmmaking community and engage the public in their work. This event aligns with the City’s Integrated Community Sustainability Plan by building partnerships within the film sector, educating and inspiring audiences with local stories, and adding vitality to the downtown core. The event is barrier-free, accessible, and inclusive, providing a welcoming space for all community members.

The evening will shine a spotlight

on the Charlottetown Film Festival, a Charlottetown Film Society signature event taking place from October 17–20. The deadline for filmmakers to submit is August 3 at filmfreeway.com/ CharlottetownFilmFestival-ChFF.

Night Flight will start at 7 pm with pre-screening art projections, followed by the film screenings at 8:30 pm. Follow @art_in_the_open for updates and the March of the Crows flight route.

MOVIES

Afternoon Movie Club

Visit the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre for an afternoon movie on August 6 at 1 pm. This month they will screen the movie The Fisher King. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Cinema Under The Stars

The City of Charlottetown is offering free outdoor movie nights in Victoria Park at 8:30 pm this month. Screenings include: Who’s Yer Father (14A) on August 28; Barbie (PG-13) on August 29; The Fall Guy (PG-13) on August 30; and If (PG-13) on August 31. Concessions available for purchase. Blankets and folding chairs are recommended. charlottetown.ca/cinema

Photo by Patricia Bourque

Welcome to City Cinema from The Charlottetown Film Society

City Cinema is owned and operated by our non-profit Society. We welcome donations, and can provide tax receipts. We will continue to present a diverse mix of films and welcome your suggestions and support. Become a member, bring friends, and share feedback!

Advance Tickets

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

Subject to Change

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

Rent City Cinema

City Cinema is available for rent for private film viewings! We provide the projectionist and will have the 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 $12

Member $9

65 and over $10

14 and under $ 8

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

Annual membership - $25.00

Thelma

August 1–5

PG, coarse language. Dir: Josh Maroglin, US, 2024, 99 min. June Squibb, Richard Roundtree, Malcolm McDowell.

Provincetown International Film Festival Winner, Audience Award

“Writer-director Josh Margolin’s grandmother Thelma nearly fell for a senior-targeted scam, an incident that serves as the inspiration for Thelma, a warm and witty comedy starring the invaluable character actress June Squibb, who gets her first leading role at the age of 94 and delivers a knockout performance… Thelma is a widow who lives alone and refuses to even consider the idea she’s losing her independence, though it takes her a long time to move from Point A to Point B… and she’d be hopeless on the computer without the help of her goofy but good-hearted slacker grandson Danny… One afternoon, Thelma gets a call from a distraught Danny… she needs to send him $10,000. In cash. To a post office box… So Thelma takes a cab to the post office and mails the 10 grand… Uh-oh. Thelma has been scammed… The police say there’s not much that can be done but Thelma is having none of that… This is an action movie, starring a mismatched pair of seniors who make the unwise decision to travel across Los Angeles to track down scammers…. The hijinks occasionally take a back seat to some serious business… with old pros Squibb and Roundtree turning in captivating and elegantly grounded performances.”

—Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun-Times

“Thelma is genuinely one of the funniest films I’ve seen in a while.” —Max Weiss, Baltimore Magazine

Ghostlight

August 6–10

14A, coarse language. Dir: Kelly O’Sullivan/ Alex Thompson, US, 2024, 115 min. Keith Kupferer, Katherine Mallen Kupferer, Tara Mallen.

Seattle International Film Festival Winner, Best Director and Best Performance

“Ghostlight is one of the best movies of the year, and if that’s a meaningful enough statement for you, then feel free to stop reading now… Ghostlight follows one family, and in particular the father Dan. His daughter

has just been suspended from school for aggressively pushing a teacher, a punishment reduced from expulsion thanks to the pleadings of Dan’s wife, Sharon, who is struggling to keep the family together and sane… One day, after another one of Dan’s own blowups at work, a curious woman, Rita, beckons him into the semi-abandoned storefront where she and a ragtag group of actors are busy rehearsing a no-budget, amateur production of Romeo and Juliet. It’s an impulsive decision for both of them… But Dan’s soon drawn to the easy camaraderie of this makeshift theater troupe and the elegant power of Shakespeare’s prose, even though he admits he doesn’t understand any of it. For much of its running time, the film only hints at what’s actually troubling Dan and his family. It’s not a secret, exactly… but the revelation of their tragedy still hurts like a kick to the teeth… In the end, it becomes a film about the world-changing power of artistic communion, about how creativity, compassion, and forgiveness of oneself and others are all pit stops on the same human journey.” —Bilge Ebiri, Vulture

Kinds of Kindness

August 11–14

18A, violence, nudity, sexual content. Dir: Yorgos Lanthimos, US, 2024, 164 min. Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe

“A macabre triptych in the style of Dogtooth and The Lobster... It’s spectacular. A psychological horror leavened with sly comedy, Kinds of Kindness stars Stone, Plemons, and Dafoe playing different characters in three self-contained stories, but themes and personalities reoccur... [In] The first tale Robert follows the bizarre instructions of his boss that require him to crash his car into another driver. Soon we learn Robert’s life for the past 10 years has been guided by this Svengali overlord down to reading material, sexual habits, and diet... In the second story, Plemons is Daniel, a police officer who awaits news about his wife, Liz, missing at sea... When Liz is found, she seems different... Daniel doubts that this is actually his wife, to the dismay of others who believe he is deluded. He tests her with increasingly bizarre, violent requests... In the final tale Emma and Andrew are devotees of a cult... When Emma is ousted from the group... she seeks to regain acceptance by fulfilling a prophecy, finding the one who resurrects the dead... Fans of the early work of Lanthimos will appreciate his new level of boldness.”

—Rania Richardson, Film-Forward

Coraline 15th Anniversary

August 15–17

PG, scary images. Dir: Henry Selick, US, 2009, 115 min. Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, John Hodgman Celebrate the 15th anniversary of the acclaimed stop-motion epic that has enchanted fans since its release back in 2009.

“As creepy as it is charming, as bizarre as it is beautiful, this is a horror movie, but also a warm, brightly coloured children’s fairy tale about the magic behind the everyday. And don’t forget, children are more resilient than we think… Our heroine is certainly the sort of role model that any kid could wish for. Coraline is smart, funny and ultimately very courageous. She’s also self-centered, sometimes grumpy and frequently awkward, but this is a well-developed character rather than a Disney princess. She gets irritated when her name is mispronounced, misses the friends she left when she moved home, and has a habit of swinging on a door and making conversation when her parents have no time to listen… Terrifying and beautiful, believable and fantastical, this is one of the best children’s films in years and Selick’s finest, better even than The Nightmare Before Christmas.” —Helen O’Hara, Empire “A visual marvel. Gorgeous to watch in all its dazzling stop-motion animation splendor.” USA Today

Touch

August 18–22

PG. Dir: Baltasar Kormákur, Iceland, 2024, 121 min. Egill Ólafsson, Kôki, Palmi Kormákur.

“A dementia diagnosis… is the catalyst for taciturn Icelandic restaurateur Kristofer to close his Reykjavik restaurant and travel to London in the hopes of reuniting with a Japanese woman he loved and lost there 50 years previously... His decision… may be impulsive — particularly given that it’s 2020, with pandemic lockdown looming and borders closing — but it never comes across as foolhardy… Quickly, the screenplay throws us into a flashback of Kristofer as a charismatic, idealistic student at London School Of Economics... He takes a job… attracted as much by Miko, the pretty daughter of restaurant owner Takahashi-san, as he is by the desire to earn an honest wage... There are also shorter flashbacks to his time in Iceland with his wife... so that the different timelines work together to create a full picture of a life... It’s easy to see how the idealistic, poetic young Kristofer would have grown into the more pragmatic older man, and how his experiences with Miko have shaped his entire life... The majority of the film has a low-key urgency, events driven by the ticking clock of Kristofer’s diagnosis and the tightening grip of the pandemic... Yet, as their story comes full circle and long-held emotions finally come to the fore, there’s a sense of stillness, of peace — and, despite uncertainties past and present — of new beginnings.” —Nikki Baughan, Screen Daily

Widow Clicquot

August 23–28

14A, nudity. Dir: Thomas Napper, US/UK, 2024, 99 min. Haley Bennett, Leo Suter, Ben Miles

“Like the elixirs she so carefully tends to at her vineyard, Widow Clicquot takes time to come into its fullest potential. Initially, it appears a sticky-sweet tale of love, as manifested by its heroine’s determination to carry on the vision of her late husband François. But it takes on added layers as she reveals the breadth of her ambition, and as her rosy recollections of her marriage give way to thornier ones — ultimately yielding a drama that feels more substantive than its 89-minute run time might suggest… Rooted in the history behind the still-renowned champagne Veuve Clicquot… The familiar yellow label becomes a symbol of enduring love, of female empowerment, even of cutting-edge technological advancement… An engaging and fitfully moving portrait of an almost accidental trailblazer. ‘When they struggle to survive, they become more reliant on their own strength,’ Clicquot says of her grapevines. ‘They become more of what they were meant to be.’” —Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter

City Cinema and The Benevolent Irish Society present:

The Quiet Man

August 25

PG. Dir: John Ford, US, 1952, 129 min. John Wayne, Maureen O’Hara, Barry Fitzgerald.

Academy Award Winner for Best Director and Cinematography

“John Ford’s bluff and sentimental comedy, from 1952, set in the Irish countryside, is as much an anthropological adventure as a romantic rhapsody. It stars John Wayne as Sean Thornton, a big-shouldered American boxer who leaves Pittsburgh for his native Innisfree, where he buys the ‘wee humble cottage’ where he was born. There, in a cinematically ecstatic burst of love at first sight, he meets flame-haired shepherdess Mary Kate Danaher, whose pig-headed, bullchested brother opposes the union. Deeply enmeshed, beyond all expectation, in local customs including the formalized rites of courtship, Sean finds that tradition reaches all the way into the conjugal bed, as the second half of the movie pivots on the consummation of the marriage and the violent battle for family honor on which it depends. Couched as a reminiscence by the village coachman

and matchmaker, this lyrical ballad is filled with lavish greenery and antic characters whose manner conceals deep conscience and an iron will. Though Sean deploys the New World’s freethinking ways to break down oppressive rules, the enveloping community offers the tormented pugilist an old-school measure of redemption.” —Richard Brody, The New Yorker

Local Hero

August 29–September 1

PG. Dir: Bill Forsyth, US, 1983, 111 min. Burt Lancaster, Peter Riegert, Peter Capaldi.

“Bill Forsyth’s wonderfully wistful and charming comedy… and its happy-sad aroma is still as pungent as ever… The scene is a fictional fishing village in western Scotland, making its modest living from the lobster bound for the fancy restaurants of London and Paris, but which the locals can’t afford to eat. Mac, a junior oil executive from Texas obsessed with work and material values, has been tasked by his eccentric billionaire boss, Felix Happer, to travel to this village and persuade the entire community to sell up so that Happer can build a refinery there and capitalize on the new gush of North Sea oil… Slowly but surely, hard-hearted capitalist Mac is beguiled by the beauty of the place and the gentleness of the locals… In the early 80s, the idea of building an oil refinery didn’t have the frisson of darkness that it might have now, although this movie certainly saw that drilling for oil meant despoiling nature, and also that the oil business had a high-handed attitude to local communities who didn’t speak English… But Local Hero snares your heart because it takes on a fantasy element: something to do with Happer’s visionary obsession with the stars.”

—Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian

“A lyrical anti-urban comedy in the great tradition of films like I Know Where I’m Going and Whisky Galore!; and its essential triumph is to prove that comedy can still contain a gentle, almost mystical, aspect without necessarily being old-fashioned.” —Time Out London

city cinema schedule

Thelma

Thelma

Thelma

Thelma

Thelma

Thelma

Ghostlight

Ghostlight

Ghostlight

Ghostlight

Ghostlight Ghostlight

Kinds of Kindness

Kinds of Kindness

Kinds of Kindness

Kinds of Kindness

Kinds of Kindness

Coraline

Coraline

Coraline

Coraline

Touch

Touch

Touch

Touch Touch

Widow Clicquot

Widow Clicquot

Widow Clicquot

The Quiet Man

Widow Clicquot

Widow Clicquot

Widow Clicquot

Widow Clicquot

Hero

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

SEPTEMBER

CREATIVE

Life drawing sessions

Life drawing sessions will be held on August 11 and 25 from 2–4 pm at the Gertrude Cotton Art Centre. Arrive early for set up; doors open at 1:30 pm. All skill levels are welcome at the drop-in drawing sessions with nude model. Participants must be age 18+ or have parent/guardian written permission. Easels are provided but participants must bring their own drawing material. Email lifedrawingpei2022@gmail.com if interested in being a model. Follow @ LifeDrawingPEI on FB for updates. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford.

PEI Modern Quilt Guild

The PEI Modern Quilt Guild will meet on August 15 from 7–9 pm. If interested in attending a meeting as a guest or for inquiries, contact peimqg@gmail.com. Info: @peimqg on IG

Makers session

Makers are invited to gather up their latest project, or one they’ve been meaning to finish, and visit Eptek & Art Culture Centre for the next drop-in Makers Session on August 18 from 1–3 pm. The free sessions offer a chance to catch up with some friends, meet new ones, and see what other makers are creating. Everyone is welcome (BYO project). 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Fibre Arts Club

Drop in anytime between 1–3 pm on Tuesdays for Fibre Arts Club at the Charlottetown Library. 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.

Free teen programming

Teens can visit the Summerside Library this summer and take part in the free arts programming offered on Tuesdays at 2:30 pm. Activities this month include: aurora borealis painting (Aug 6); rocket launch (13); and lucky star ornaments (20). 57 Central St, Summerside.

Creative Art Hive Pop-Up

Creative PEI’s Art Hive pop-up takes place August 7 and 21 from 10 am–12 noon at the Charlottetown Library. Drop in to make art and chat. Supplies are provided or bring a current project. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Brilliant Labs

Kids ages 6–12 are invited to the Summerside Library on Thursdays at 11 am to join guests from Brilliant Labs and get hands-on with different STEM activities. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Cricut tech help

Get help with a cricut project at the Charlottetown Library. See a staff member to book an appointment (times vary). Bring project supplies and learn how to get started. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Mi’kmaq Storytelling

Julie Pellissier-Lush and guests explore history and culture

An enriching Mi’kmaq Storytelling Series continues until September 5 at Basin Head Provincial Park, Epekwitk’s only marine protected area.

This unique series, running on Thursdays from 6–7 pm, celebrates the deep connection between the Mi’kmaq people and the land, and the importance of preserving the Island’s marine environments.

Hear the stories of Epekwitk’s own Mi’kmaq Storyteller, Julie Pellissier-Lush, and special guests. Julie will take audiences on many adventures to learn about the history and culture of Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq.

DiverseCity Festival

Souris and Kensington host event in August

Free and accessible DiverseCity events continue in August, with celebrations coming up in Souris and Kensington.

Visit mcpei.ca/events for more information. Basin Head Provincial Park is located at 318 Basin Head Road in Souris.

A project of Immigrant & Refugee Services Association PEI (IRSA), DiverseCity Festival features performances of music and dance, displays, traditional arts and crafts, demonstrations, and ethnic food from a variety of countries.

“The DiverseCity Festival is a great way for people from all backgrounds to celebrate their culture,” says IRSA Executive Director Bernadette

Reynolds, “and we know how much people appreciate the opportunity to share their talents and traditions.”

The Festival has moved across PEI this summer, bringing its celebration of multiculturalism and inclusion to Charlottetown in June, followed by Alberton, Summerside and Montague in July. The Festival will be held in Souris on August 11 and in Kensington on August 18. diversecityfest.com

Julie Pellissier-Lush

15 Août/August 15th

Irish Lectures

Benevolent Irish Society series now available online

In 2025, the Benevolent Irish Society of PEI (BIS) will celebrate its 200th anniversary, highlighting its Annual Lecture series. Since 1987, the BIS has hosted lectures on Irish culture, history, and heritage. Distinguished speakers such as Dr. Brendan O’Grady, Leo Campbell, Dr. Padraig O’Siadhail, Dr. Colman O’Hare, and Michael Hennessey have provided valuable insights into the Island’s Irish community and the broader Celtic world.

While lectures have been held at the BIS for many years, the first formal Irish Lecture Series was introduced in 1987, with the intention of making it a regular part of the Society’s activities. Some topics covered over the years include: The Ancient Celts; Images of Medieval Ireland; and The Irish on PEI. The series was occasionally held in Kinkora, but primarily in Charlottetown at the Edward Whelan Irish Cultural Centre (582 North River Road), which is also home to the BIS.

From 2022–2024, the BIS, in collaboration with UPEI’s Robertson Library and the Embassy of Ireland, annotated recordings of the 62 historical lectures on file. UPEI’s librarian Keltie McPhail and Archivist Simon Lloyd, along with

CAMPS

Camp Keir outdoor summer camps

Camp Keir’s annual series of seaside summer camps for kids ages 6–15 will run until August 14 in Canoe Cove. The upcoming camps are: Adventures of Keiralot (Aug 4–9) and Land Before Keir (Aug 11–14). Info/register: campkeir@ gmail.com; campkeir.ca

L. M. Montgomery children’s day camp at Macphail

In honour of Anne of Green Gables author Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 150th birthday, the Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead is hosting a L.M. Montgomery children’s day camp in the Homestead’s Great Room, which will be converted into a one-room schoolhouse classroom. Children will experience a school day like Montgomery’s characters: reading excerpts from Montgomery’s books; creative writing; penmanship; baking recipes from her books for lunch; and walking the Homestead property. The one-day camp is open to children beginning grade 3 and older, from 10 am–4 pm on Thursdays, August–September. Be prepared for mosquitoes and hot days. Pre-register at macphailhomstead@gmail.com or 902-651-2789. macphailhomestead.ca

BIS volunteers Mary Ellen Callaghan, Clare Martin, and BIS summer student Edward Wang, worked on this project. Today, the project is complete and available at islandvoices.ca, under the BIS section.

The oldest annotated recording is “Famous Irish Churchmen from PEI” by Reverend James Kelly, given on April 28, 1988. The most recent is “Katherine Hughes” by Dr. Padraig O’Siadhail, given in 2011.

Summer Camps at Confederation Centre

A few spots are still available for arts camps in August at Confederation Centre of the Arts. A Youth Choir camp for kids ages 8–18 will run from August 5–9. Students will sing music in a variety of styles such as pop, classical, musical theatre, and more. Along the way, they will explore and develop skills in vocal technique, music reading, and teamwork. Musical Theatre Intensive camp will run from August 12–23. This two-week intensive gives students ages 12–17 a chance to delve into the world of musical theatre. Featuring guest instructors from the Charlottetown Festival, students will expand their abilities as a triple threat while they dance, sing and act their way to a final performance at the Centre’s Outdoor Amphitheatre. Students will attend shows at the Charlottetown Festival, receive performance training, learn how to prepare for auditions, and more. To register, visit confederationcentre.com or call 902-628-6134.

Performing arts camps for kids at Kings Playhouse

Kings Playhouse is offering performing arts camps for kids this summer. The next camp week is August 5–9. These camps are designed to ignite children’s imaginations and provide a nurturing environment for them to sing, act, and dance. Register at kingsplayhouse.com.

BIS Past President George O’Connor, a strong supporter of getting the historical Irish lecture recordings annotated and into the public domain

Historic walking tours

From first inhabitants to Confederation and beyond

Confederation Centre of the Arts is offering historic walking tours of downtown Charlottetown. From the Island’s first inhabitants to Confederation and beyond, these tours offer a blend of Canadian history, cultural landmarks, intriguing facts, architectural gems, and more.

The tours are led by the Heritage Players, a troupe of knowledgeable guides who dress in period costumes to make history come alive in an entertaining and memorable way.

Three tours are on offer this summer. The Historic Great George Tour, available in English or French, explores PEI’s role in shaping Canadian history. A classic Ghost Tour led by a mysterious gravedigger is full of spooky tales of Charlottetown’s dark, mysterious, and haunted past. New this year is a Behind the Scenes Tour that dives into the storied 60-year

TALKS

Reflections of Loyalist

Freemasonry lecture

The Abegweit (PEI) Branch of the United Empire Loyalists’ Association of Canada will present a free public lecture by Adjunct Professor and Loyalist Studies Coordinator at University of New Brunswick, Dr. Bonnie Huskins. “Reflections of Loyalist Freemasonry, St. John’s Lodge No. 26, Charlottetown, PEI” will be presented on August 8 at 6:30 pm in the Rotary Club Room at the Charlottetown Library. To reserve a seat, email membership.pei.uelac@gmail.com by August 2. For more details, visit abegweit.uelac.ca/activities.

Lunch and Lecture Series at Macphail Homestead

Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead’s Lunch and Lecture series continues on Sundays at 1 pm through August. The events feature a brunch and Island speakers presenting unique topics, such as: “Words and Pictures: Sir Andrew Macphail and the Pen and Pencil Club of Montreal” with Sandra Martin (Aug 4); “The World of Nature: Woodland Plants and Trees at Macphail” with Rosemary Curley (11); “Selkirk’s People: Stories of Some Early Settlers” with Linda Jean Nicholson (18); and “Dynasty: The MacDonald Family of Panmure Island and Georgetown in the Long 19th Century” with Dr. Ed MacDonald (25). Reservations are required at macphailhomstead@gmail.com or 902-651-2789.

history of Confederation Centre of the Arts. Guests can learn about the Centre’s origins and evolution and visit backstage to explore decades of theatre memorabilia.

Tours are approximately 75 minutes. For the full schedule and to book tickets, visit confederationcentre.com or call 1-800-565-0278.

Monday History Talks at Bedeque Museum

The Bedeque Area Historical Museum continues its History Talks on Mondays from 7–9 pm. Talks in August include: “Dark Island: On the trail of UFOs, the Holman Homestead Ghost and Things That Go Bump in the Night” with writer and artist Wayne Wright (Aug 5); “The Wright Family of Bedeque: Loyalist Refugees from New York State” with historian Doug Sobey (12); “Happy 150th Birthday, L.M. Montgomery!” with Dr. Kate Scarth, UPEI L.M. Montgomery Institute (19); “Campbell & Burns” History Circle (26). As part of the Bedeque Loyalist Festival, there will be two talks on August 10; “Loyalist Women” with Dr. Bonnie Huskins of UNB at 2 pm, and “The Bedeque Harbour Loyalists” with Doug Sobey at 4 pm. There is no admission. Donations are welcome and refreshments are served.

Introduction to Seniors College presentation

Shirley Pierce from Seniors’ College will give an introductory presentation about Seniors College at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre on August 15 at 1 pm. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Senior Nutrition Myths Debunked presentation

UPEI Foods & Nutrition student, Harmeet Singh, will present “The Truth About Eating Well as You Age: Senior Nutrition Myths Debunked” in the Community Kitchen at the Charlottetown Library on August 13 at 1 pm. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

The Heritage Players on tour

Summerside and the RCAF

Celebrating 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force

Culture Summerside has created an exhibit, Summerside and the RCAF—the town’s interest in flight, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force in 2024.

Highland Games

Celtic festival returns to Belfast—Aug 2 to 4

Two volunteer groups in the community of Belfast are working to re-create the decades-old Belfast Highland Games. This event will feature a weekend-long festival of activities, games, and athletic competitions from August 2–4. All events will be held in and around the Lord Selkirk Campground, the Scottish Cultural Centre (the Croft House), and Belfast Highland Greens on Selkirk Park Road in Belfast.

Adults and children can participate in races and contests of all kinds for medals and cash prizes. Other events include a caber toss, the hammer throw, the farmer’s walk, the Kilted Classic, a Tartan Fun Run, Braveheart-themed face painting, balloon animal-making

workshops, storytelling, and more.

Local artisans, merchants, and organizations will have booths and displays to sell their wares. The Belfast Historical Society will be selling hotdogs and sausages, along with local strawberries and ice cream. The Belfast swimming pool and canteen will also be open throughout the weekend for those who may want to take a break from activities and take a cooling dip in the pool.

With the exception of the Kilted Classic, admission to all events is by donation. For schedule details and more information, follow @Belfast Celtic Festival and Highland Games on FB.

The display is on view this summer, Tuesday–Saturday, 10 am–5 pm, at the Summerside Interpretive Centre, located at 33 Summer Street.

Charlottetown

Natal Day

Emancipation Day

Black Cultural Society of PEI hosts event at The Bog—Aug 1

Join the Black Cultural Society of PEI in celebrating Emancipation Day 2024 on August 1 from 5–8 pm at The Bog (Rochford Square) in Charlottetown.

This special event commemorates the abolition of slavery across the British Commonwealth, including in Canada, on August 1, 1834.

There will be entertainment, and attendees can enjoy a series of activities, games, food and more, at this all-ages event.

Follow @ blackculturalsocietypei on their socials for the evening’s full celebration program and updates. All are welcome.

Free, family-friendly events

The City of Charlottetown will celebrate its 169th birthday with several free, family-friendly Natal Day events taking place from August 1–4.

The Natal Day weekend events begin with the announcement of the Citizen Recognition and Make Our Hometown Beautiful Awards recipients on August 1. On August 2, there will be a group bike ride led by Bike Friendly Communities, a pancake breakfast, a summer splash party, and an older adult social hosted by the mayor and council. A Rise and Grind yoga class and a birthday party for Charlottetown mascot, Charlie Town, will be on August 4.

All outdoor celebrations are weather permitting, follow the City’s social media channels for updates.

charlottetown.ca/natalday

L.M. Montgomery 150th

Celebrating Island literary icon

PEI celebrations continue for the 150th birthday of its beloved literary icon, L. M. Montgomery. Join the festivities and delve into the life of the creator of Anne of Green Gables. Tourism Cavendish Beach and the Central Coastal Tourism Partnership have organized events extending into the fall, honouring Montgomery’s legacy through activities showcasing the region’s cultural heritage.

Highlights include: live art events inspired by Montgomery’s quotes; a PEI Photography Club exhibit; a Harmony House show inspired by her poetry; a recounting of Montgomery’s connection to the sinking of the Marco Polo at Carr’s Oyster Bar; photography exhibits of Montgomery’s photos; photo tours with Ian Carter; cyanotype workshops with Julia Purcell; flower arranging workshops, garden walks and more with Little Dutch Flowers; songs, stories, teas, readings and more hosted at PEI Preserve Company, the Barachois Inn, and the Bideford Parsonage; and children’s programs at Bedeque Museum and the MacPhail Homestead.

For a complete list of events, visit lmmontgomeryliterarytour.com.

A gift of Island Poetry

LOVE LETTER WRITTEN IN A PEI SPRING

This place is cut from a Ray Carver collection: woodsmoke-coloured clouds, sun without warmth. Even the red fields pale in what passes for spring. Frost heaves in pavement, bare trees without buds.

You said to me, Nature is resilient. My Island proof of this: by the time you touch down summer will be in swing. Lupins, dandelions. Singing sands hot against your bare feet. Flowers bloom by waterfront restaurants. I think of things to tell you.

Last night heavy rain. A man said of the weather: It’s a pile of wind we got. I don’t know when it’ll get a chance to fine up.

And when I head to the mailbox here, I think hummingbird. I think summer. I think of the set of snowdrops you sketched in notebook where I wrote

She is someone you build a life with. Put down foundation. Raise four walls and be grateful.

— Chris Bailey

Chris Bailey is a commercial fisherman from PEI and the author of What Your Hands Have Done. His second poetry collection, Forecast: Pretty Bleak, is forthcoming from McClelland & Stewart in spring 2025.

Each month Bren Simmers selects a poem by an Island poet for The Buzz

Wild Threads 2024

Programming for upcoming literary festival in September

Wild Threads Literary Festival 2024, presented by the PEI Writers Guild, will return from September 19–22.

Programming this year will include music, comedy, storytelling, workshops and panels, all within 30 minutes of Charlottetown.

Wild Threads 2024 will introducte their first ever bilingual event at Watermark Theatre in North Rustico that will be catered with Acadianinspired food and will feature Francophone music, storytelling, poetry, and special musical guests.

The Festival will be in Hunter River for the first time at Harmony House for a show that looks at music, lyricism, authorship, and storytelling through an activist/feminist lens. This event will be hosted by Evelyn Bradley and will feature some of Harmony House’s female and non-binary musicians

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN ISLAND HISTORY

THREE GUIDED WALKING TOURS

HISTORIC GREAT GEORGE • BEHIND THE SCENES • GHOST TOUR

like Joce Reyome, Alicia Toner, Carlie Howell, and Brielle Ansems.

The Jack Pine Folk Club, featuring poets, musicians, storytellers and entertainers, will return at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown.

A comedy show at The Guild will showcase Allyson June Smith (UK), Heidi Brander, and a special performance by PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis. There will also be a comedy writing workshop with former This Hour Has 22 Minutes head writer Heidi Brander.

The inaugural young adult writing workshop will take place at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre, and a fiction writing workshop will be held in Victoria-by-the-Sea. Full the full program, tickets, and more, visit wildthreadsliteraryfestival. com and follow @wildthreadspei.

TO BOOK

PEI BOOKS

Fundador: The Ibiza Cat Gail Rutherford

After sixty years, Fundador: The Ibiza Cat, written and illustrated by Gail Rutherford, and edited by Henry Dunsmore, has been released.

In the early1960s, Ibiza was an inexpensive and beautiful place where many artists and writers could afford to live while they worked.

Rutherford explains: “We rented an old farmhouse, near a beach, and our two cats kept the house free of mice.

“In this idylic place I created Fundador in those years, but though I found a German and an English publisher I never found a US one, full color printing was so expensive back then that it would take a trio to print the book.

“So Fundador was stored away, and became a time capsule, so here is Ibiza as it was in those wonderful years.”

Copies of the book are available

Raven Mary McDonald-Rissanen

Island author Mary McDonaldRissanen’s latest book Raven is a hybrid of fact and fiction about an 18th-century woman who lived on PEI in the early 19th century.

Readers enter Raven’s life with May, who finds Raven’s diary in her PEI childhood home and brings its numerous illustrations and stories to the light of day. Raven is a child of mysterious origins who bonds with her wealthy adopted family’s maid, Pamela, and documents their sojourns in nature. During the advancement of colonialism, slavery, and the increased popularity of medical science in 18th century England, Raven and Pamela’s activities with natural cures and practices are met with suspicion, which sends Pamela to prison and Raven first to exile in Wales and then PEI. Once on the Island, Raven continues to document her natural milieu along with her own family, textually and visually. A letter from Pamela interrupts her

existence and she sets sail for France to claim her inheritance.

Books are available locally at Beaconsfield Historic House and the UPEI bookstore in Charlottetown, and Eptek Centre and Daisy Mae Bookshop in Summerside, or directly from author at marymcdr@gmail.com. mary-mcdonald-rissanen.com

Northern Girls: North Shore Lobster Carnival

Elisabeth Richard

Published by Light of Mind Publishing, Island author Elisabeth Richard’s newest book Northern Girls: North Shore Lobster Carnival, is a story aimed at young readers ages 9–12. Set in Stanhope, PEI, the book captures the essence of the charming Island with a story filled with culinary adventures, a little mystery and seaside fun. The story follows Lizzy and her friends as they navigate their love for cooking and the sea, showcasing the unique beauty and culture of PEI through the eyes of young girls on a culinary journey.

Books are available at online at amazon.ca or by calling 902-213-1403.

Locally owned and operated for over 20 years!

BOOK CLUBS

Queer Book Club

The Queer Book Club hosts a meet-up to discuss different reading material in Charlottetown. Email peiliberationreads@gmail.com to get added to the list and receive details on the meeting location.

Summerside 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 August 31 at 2 pm.

Silent Book Club

Silent Book Club takes place at the Charlottetown Library on August 4 from 1:30–3:30 pm. There is no assigned reading at Silent Book Club; audiobooks, ebooks, textbooks, comic books—it’s bring-your-own-book. Everyone settles in for an hour of silent, sustained reading. At the end of the hour, attendees can socialize—or not.

MI’KMAQ STORYTELLING SERIES AT BASIN HEAD

6-7PM ON THURSDAYS FROM JULY 4 - SEPT 5, 2024

Join us this summer for an enriching Mi’kmaq storytelling series at Basin Head Provincial Park, Epekwitk’s only Marine Protected Area! This unique series celebrates the deep connection between the Mi’kmaq people and the land, and the importance of preserving our marine environments. Come hear the stories of Epekwitk’s own Mi’kmaq Storyteller, Julie Pellissier-Lush, and special guests! Julie will take you on many wonderful adventures to learn about the history and culture of Epekwitnewaq Mi'kmaq.

JULIE PELLISSIER-LUSH Mi’kmaq Storyteller

Basin Head Provincial Park, PE

WWW.MCPEI.CA/EVENTS

COMMUNITY

HC Student Union food drive

In preparation for students returning to classes, all Holland College campuses will be accepting non-perishable food donations. These donations will go directly to College students who face food insecurity challenges. Members of the Island community are encouraged to drop off donations to a Holland College location closest to them.

BAWG Outreach Event at Cape Bear Lighthouse

The Belfast Area Watershed Group (BAWG) will be hosting an outreach event at Cape Bear Lighthouse on August 23 from 11 am–2 pm. There will be free activities and exhibits. All are welcome. 42 Black Brook Rd, Murray Harbour. Info: capebearlighthouse.com

Survey for Parents

The PEI Breastfeeding Coalition has developed a survey to determine how supportive establishments are in catering to breastfeeding parents in the Charlottetown area. The survey is part of a project supported by the Women and Gender Diverse People’s Health Section of the Department of Health and Wellness, and the link can be found at the PEI Breastfeeding Coalition’s FB page: @ PEIBreastfeedingCoalition

Resources for Veterans

Canadian Veterans and their family members, friends, and community members who recognize the need for professional resources can receive help from the Royal Canadian Legion PEI Command. Reach out at 902-892-2161 or royalcanadianlegion@pei.aibn.com and ask to be referred to the Chairman of Veterans Services.

L. M. M. garden parties

Little Dutch Flower Farm in Summerside will host garden parties this August in celebration of Island author Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 150th birthday. Participants are invited to pick locally grown flowers and create their own arrangements on August 22 at 6 pm. On August 24 from 9–11 am, attendees can experience a special cut flower u-pick, explore reading areas featuring Montgomery’s books and create a flower-inspired craft. To register, visit @ littledutchflowerfarm on IG or FB.

EAL Conversation circle

The Immigrant & Refugee Services Association PEI is hosting EAL conversation circles for adults this summer on Tuesdays at 6 pm at the Summerside Library, and on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm at the Charlottetown Library. Adults who are interested in practicing their English language skills are encouraged to join for some informal conversation. No registration is required.

Free children’s programming

Ongoing programs for babies, toddlers and young children continues at the Summerside Library in August, including: Summer Reading Fun (2 pm, Aug 6, 13 and 20); Wiggle Giggle Read (9:30 am, Wednesdays); Toddler Time (9:30 am, Thursdays); Saturday Storytime (10:30 am, Aug 3, 10 and 17); and TD Summer Reading Closing Party (10:30 am, Aug 24). 57 Central St, Summerside.

Breastfeeding Support Drop-in

Pregnant individuals and new parents are invited to a breastfeeding support drop-in on August 7 from 10–11 am at the Beaconsfield Carriage House. Hosted by La Leche League PEI, the major topics will be preparing to breastfeed and dealing with challenges. The drop-in is free to attend and all are welcome. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown. Follow @LLLC.PEI on FB for updates. Info: 902-316-2167

Cell phone use policy updated at Island

schools

The Province has announced a new ministerial directive on restricting cell phone use in Island schools following national trends and the feedback heard from Island educators. To enhance student focus and to create more conducive learning environments, the updated policy will prohibit the use of cellular devices in the classroom effective this upcoming school year. Teachers will still maintain the flexibility to allow students in grades 7–12 to use devices in class for educational purposes. Exceptions will be in place when learners need access to their devices for special education or medical purposes. Learn more about the updated policy at princeedwardisland.ca.

Slam W Coaches Clinic

Registration is now open for the Atlantic Slam W Coaches Clinic being held on September 7 from 9 am–1 pm at UPEI. Coaches are invited to join colleagues from school, provincial and minor league teams to learn tips for being effective on the court and having a winning approach. The coaches’ clinic will feature UPEI Panthers women’s basketball head coach Matt Gamblin, coaching staff from Atlantic Slam W teams and veteran sportscaster Rod Black. Participating coaches will see skills and drills demonstrated on the court, and learn tangible tips and strategies they can take back to their teams. Register online at basketballpei.ca/atlantic-slam-w-coaches-clinic by August 27 at 4 pm. Info: info@basketballpei.ca; 902-368-4986

Live Well PEI Wellness Grant

Live Well PEI is accepting applications for funding for new projects that can reduce barriers, increase supports, and enhance resources to make healthy living an easier choice for all Island residents. Organizations, Indigenous groups,

schools and communities can apply to the Live Well PEI Wellness Grant Program to support health promotion projects and initiatives. There are two levels of grant funding available: $2500 and $5000. By providing financial assistance and guidance, Live Well hopes to foster collaboration and create environments where healthy choices are easier for everyone and to empower communities to take action and make a positive impact on overall wellness. The focus of the 2024-2025 grant is on the key pillars of chronic disease prevention and the social, economic, and structural conditions that impact health, including healthy eating, physical activity, living tobacco-free, reducing alcohol consumption and other determinants of health. Those interested in applying are encouraged to attend a virtual information workshop on August 1 from 12–1 pm. Registration is required by email at livewellpei@gov.pe.ca. The grant application deadline is 4 pm on August 12. Info: princeedwardisland.ca/wellnessgrants

New Renting PEI guides

PEI’s new Residential Tenancy Act has been in effect since April of 2023. Many Island tenants and landlords still do not understand the changes made by the new act. To help, Renting PEI has launched an updated second edition of their publications, Renting on PEI: A Guide for Tenants and Renting on PEI: A Guide for Landlords, to reflect the new Act. The guides answer common questions about PEI rental law and explain the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords. They also include helpful legal information and a list of essential services to help tenants and landlords. The guides are available in English, French, Arabic, Punjabi, and Simplified Chinese.

ARCH general meeting

The Association of Rural Community Halls (ARCH) announced its upcoming annual meeting, set to take place at 6 pm on August 8 at the Milton Community Hall, in North Milton. The meeting will focus on delivering valuable information and resources, and will provide an opportunity for those involved in rural halls in PEI to meet and collaborate. Attendees will learn about effective fundraising strategies, innovative marketing approaches and enhancing community engagement. All rural community hall representatives welcome to attend.

French conversation group

A French conversation group is held on Mondays at 4 pm at the Charlottetown Library. Individuals ages 12+ who are interested in practicing their French language skills are encouraged to join for some casual conversation, games and books. All skill levels are welcome. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

PEI Spikeball Tournament

Islanders are invited to join a Spikeball event at Black Bush Beach in Tracadie on August 10 from 11 am–2 pm. The inaugural tournament, organized by Bob Terpstra, a passionate Spikeball enthusiast from Belle River, PEI, will provide Islanders with an opportunity to compete head to head in this favorite summer

pastime. The event is not just about competition, it’s about celebrating a shared love of the sport and getting to know new people. Participants register as teams of two and will be treated to free BBQ and non-alcoholic beer provided by Libra. Organizers welcome Islanders of all ages and experience levels out for a fun day at the beach. For more info and to register, visit bit.ly/spikeballpei.

Hospice PEI Grief Support

Hospice PEI holds monthly online meetings on the third Thursday of the month at 7 pm via Zoom. For further details and information on navigating through grief and for helpful resources, contact the hospice grief support coordinator at 902-330-3857 or griefsupport@hospicepei.ca. To learn more about Hospice PEI programs and services and how to get involved, visit hospicepei.ca.

Hilda Ramsay Bursary

Applications are now open for the $500 Hilda Ramsay Bursary. Established in 2019 by the NDP PEI Women’s Committee to encourage activist women on the Island, the bursary is granted annually to a female-identifying student from UPEI or Holland College who has a demonstrated ability in social activism. Funds for this bursary were raised at a June event that featured Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, as the guest speaker. The bursary was named after Hilda Ramsay, the first woman to run for the provincial legislature. The application deadline is November 1. Apply online at ndppei.ca

PEI Autistic Adults

PEI Autistic Adults is an online and in-person peer-support group for autistic adults and 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 meetings every Saturday via Zoom. PEI Autistic Adults was started by an autistic senior and currently has over 100 members ranging from students to seniors. Those who wish to participate in the meetings but who do not wish to interact online can email peiautisticadults@gmail. com. PEI Autistic Adults is not affiliated with any organization.

Forestry Commission seeking feedback

Islanders are invited to fill out a survey on forest policy. Towards A New Forest Policy—a discussion paper by the PEI Forestry Commission contains 13 key issues related to forestry including the future of a legislative framework, sustainability of biomass supply, and increasing readiness for extreme weather. The survey will help the Commission understand more about Islanders’ forestry priorities and the issues facing PEI forests. The discussion paper and survey are available at princeedwardisland.ca/ forestsurvey. The deadline for feedback is August 31. Public meetings will take place in communities across PEI this summer, with dates and locations tba.

Celebrations in Evangeline

Agricultural Exhibition & Acadian Festival—Aug 29 to Sept 1

The 2024 Evangeline Area Agricultural Exhibition & Acadian Festival will take place in Abram-Village from August 29 to September 1. The festival will host a myriad of events, competitions, and shows over the weekend, including horse-pulling, lobster-eating, woods- and fishermen competitions, and magic and hypnosis shows.

On Friday, attendees can enjoy rubber boot throwing, 4-H competitions, and a youth talent show. Judging will take place for grains, roots and vegetables, fruits and flowers, domestic sciences, and arts and handicrafts. Additionally, there will be a Friday Night Dance with Laurie LeBlanc.

Saturday Night Dance with Réveil.

Loyalist Heritage Festival

Bedeque Area Historical Museum—Aug 9 to 11

The Bedeque Area Historical Museum serves as the Island’s hub for Loyalist knowledge and displays their history. To commemorate the 240th anniversary of the arrival of the Bedeque Harbour Loyalists, the museum is hosting a Loyalist Heritage Festival from August 9–11. Events include craft workshops and demonstrations, dance and music performances, a blueberry social, historical talks, historic children’s games, and museum tours.

Saturday’s events include potato peeling and knitting contests, Holstein shows, and the Acadian Festival Road Race. In the afternoon, there will be a music and comedy show featuring Nick, Samantha, Remi, Debbie, and other musical guests, followed by a

2024 Gold Cup Parade

“A World of Colour” is this year’s theme—Aug 16

The Gold Cup Parade returns to Charlottetown for its 61st year on August 16 at 10 am. The 2024 theme, “A World of Colour,” will feature vibrant floats and spectators are encouraged to wear bright colours. This year’s Parade Marshals are Cameron Gordon and Megan Connors,

Sunday’s highlights include a parade at 12 noon, bingo, and an afternoon of fiddling and step dancing. The festival will conclude with a bilingual closing concert and feast at 5:30 pm, featuring traditional Acadian dishes, lobster, and live entertainment from the group Gadelle at the Village musical acadien.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit expositionfestival.com for the full schedule, tickets, and more.

a dance teacher and student duo who have represented PEI on a national level. They won PEI Hospice’s Dancing with the Stars in 2021, with their video gaining over 100 million views. They also received high praise on Canada’s Got Talent. Beyond dancing, Gordon and Connors are deeply involved in their community. Gordon is also a model, Special Olympics gold medalist, and co-founder of Stockings from the Heart. Connors is an educational assistant and active with local dance groups. Follow their adventures @ teamcamgordon on social media. For a map of the Gold Cup Parade route, visit goldcupparade.ca.

The festival will begin with a Loyalist Supper on August 9 from 6–8 pm at Bedeque United, with musical accompaniment by Roy Johnstone.

On August 10, the opening ceremony will start at 10:30 am in front of the Loyalist monument in Central Bedeque. Activities throughout the day include two historic talks: UNB’s Dr. Bonnie Huskins will discuss Loyalist Women, including Isabella Robins of Lower Bedeque, at 2 pm; and historian Doug Sobey will discuss the origins of the Bedeque Harbour Loyalists and why they settled in the area at 4 pm.

The annual Blueberry and Icecream Social will be held in the Loyalist Monument Park on August 11 from 2–4 pm, with musical entertainment by Luci Blu. The festival will close that evening with a community concert at 7:30 pm by world-renowned fiddler Richard Wood.

Entrance to the festival and museum is free. For tickets to the Loyalist Supper or the Richard Wood concert, call 902-887-3009, email bedequemuseum@gmail.com, or visit the museum at 950 Callbeck Street, Central Bedeque. For the full schedule, fees, and more, visit bedequemuseum.ca.

Agricultural Exhibition & Acadian Festival, 2011

Visit charlottetown.ca/natalday for more information and a detailed schedule of events.

Thursday, August 1ST

4:00-6:00 PM Victoria Park Pavilion

Thursday, August 29TH

4:00-6:00 PM

Malcolm Darrach Community Centre

WALK/RUN/BIKE

Cornwall Run Club

The Cornwall Run Club holds a social run every Thursday at 6 pm that is approximately 5 kms. Runners of all calibers are welcome. The run starts and ends at Village Green Brewery (30 Church St at the old post office/ dental clinic in Cornwall). Follow @ CornwallRunClub on FB for updates.

SAFE Summerside Sunday Bike Ride

SAFE Summerside hosts easy family-friendly bike rides, open to all ages and abilities, every Sunday at 12–2 pm from May–September. Slower riders set the pace. The aim is for a two-hour maximum time. Helmets are required and water and snacks are encouraged. Participants will meet outside in the Elm Street School parking lot (corner of Willow and Northumberland by the Confederation Trail) in Summerside. Updates will be noted @SAFE Summerside on FB.

Great Cycle Challenge Canada

Mona Reck from Stratford, PEI, will ride 200 km in August, aiming to raise $500 for the SickKids Foundation through the Great Cycle Challenge Canada (GCCC). GCCC supports research and treatment for childhood cancer. Since 2016, over 130,000 riders have cycled 24.2 million km, raising over $47 million. This year, SickKids hopes for 15,000 participants. To learn more, donate, or join, visit greatcyclechallenge.ca.

Just Live Fun Run

The second annual Just Live Fun Run will take place on August 25, beginning at the Cornwall Civic Centre. The run aims to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, driven by the personal journey of Michelle Hughes and her message to “Just Live.” The event promises to be centered on family, community and the joy of movement. Participants can choose their challenge with the Atlantic

Chip Timing event for the 1 km, 5 km or 10 km routes. The event will also have a kids zone, cold plunges, entertainment and more. This year, the 1 km run/ walk will be held in memory of Jocelyn Altass, a beloved mother and volunteer from the 2023 event. All proceeds raised will be matched by the Sarcoma Cancer Foundation of Canada and allocated to the PRO CARE EHE Research Team at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Register for the run online at raceroster.com/events/2024/86925/ just-live-fun-run-2024

Pet Value Walk for Dog Guides

The Stratford Lions Club and Pet Value have collaborated to hold a walk on August 31 at Stratford Town Hall to raise money for dog guides. Signup will begin at 10:30 am. It costs approximately $35,000 to breed, train, and provide each dog guide; these dogs are located across Canada, including PEI. The Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides does not receive any government funding and relies solely on donations and fundraising events such as the Pet Value Walk for Dog Guides. The rain date is September 7. Participant information pamphlets are available at Pet Value Stratford or by contacting Bev Aylesworth at 902-629-4767. Info: walkfordogguides.com

GAMES

Charlottetown Scrabble Club

The Charlottetown Scrabble Club continues to meet every Tuesday from 5–8 pm at the Charlottetown Library. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Tips for improving one’s game and cheat sheets are offered. Participants should bring their own Scrabble set if they have one, as well as paper and pencil for scorekeeping. Admission is free. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Nintendo Switch Meetup

Hang out with fellow Nintendo Switch enthusiasts ages 13+ at the Charlottetown Library on August 7 from 3:30–4:30 pm. Visit each other’s Animal Crossing islands, trade and battle Pokémon, or get a race on in Mario Kart. Bring controllers, games and Switch, or use the library’s equipment. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Cards, crokinole and cronies

Socialize and play games like cribbage, crokinole, scrabble, checkers and more at the Summerside Library on August 14 and 28 at 2 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Sean Casey MP Charlottetown

The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson

Low tide

The afternoon low tide brings families to the Cove, happily encumbered with folding beach chairs, striped umbrellas, airy beach tents, heavy picnic coolers filled with icy beverages and egg salad sandwiches, potato chips, plastic shovels and buckets, huge towels featuring palm trees and cocktails, wide brimmed hats, flip flops, beach shoes, sunglasses, swimming goggles, balls, Frisbees, dogs, babies, and floaties.

It’s a challenge to get everything down to the beach and claim a place on a sandbar that will stay high and dry for a few hours, for we are granted only a brief period to relax on the ocean floor. Low tide to high tide is 6 hours and 12.5 minutes, and sandbars are under water much of that time.

We have a tide clock with two big hands, one showing the 24-hour solar cycle (the way we tell time), the other hand displaying the 24-hour 50-minute lunar cycle. This device is very handy for people who live near the shore and you might like to get one yourself. Or you can just go to a website that tells you the tides.

Back to the beach. Having taken up residence on a sandbar, with babies happily sitting in warm tidal pools and older offspring running madly in all directions, parents can finally stop and relax. Troubles, what troubles? We left them all on shore.

“Don’t go out too far on those floaties,” Dad cautions, adjusting his ball cap and flipping the tab on a cold beverage. There’s no danger today. The children are in shallow water between sandbars, the breeze is out of the south and the waves are gentle and forgiving. The real danger is the hot sun, but Mom has basted her darlings like chickens with the strongest sunblock money can buy.

Having no responsibilities I am free to walk across the Cove and observe beach life. In shallow pools moonsnails spread their translucent feet, searching for shellfish to devour. Ring billed seagulls feed silently on brine shrimp and barely look up as I pass by. Crisp tiny turrets of tunnel worms crumble underfoot. A lone seal lies half submerged on an invisible shoal.

The sand is deeply ridged in attractive patterns that echo the shape of the waves, offering an expensive foot massage for free.

A young couple strolls by, shoulders and arms accidentally touching, and I watch until the magic moment happens and they’re holding hands. Was I once that young and hopeful, that slender and bewitching? I must have been.

Everything is calm, perfect, and temporarily under control. A bowl of fresh strawberries sits on the counter at home. We have a plan for supper. The lawn is mowed. The remnants of Hurricane Beryl will bring rain tomorrow, but right now I am surrounded by life and possibilities.

The tide comes in and one by one the sandbars disappear. Children are rounded up and brushed off, floaties are deflated… and in a few hours you’d never know anyone had been there… except for a tiny pair of yellow crocs forgotten in the parking lot… and one blue plastic bucket floating out to sea.

SEPTEMBER

BUZZ DEADLINE

Thursday, August 15

Program Highlights Program Highlights

Provincial Horse Pulling Championship Provincial Horse Pulling Championship

Provincial Rubberboot Throwing Championship

Provincial Rubberboot Throwing Championship

Lobster Eating Competition

Lobster Eating Competition

Woodsmen and Fishermen Competitions

Woodsmen and Fishermen Competitions

Parade at 12 p.m. (new time)

Parade at 12 p.m. (new time)

Potato Peeling and Knitting Contests

Potato Peeling and Knitting Contests

Judging of grains, roots & vegetables, fruits & flowers,

Judging of grains, roots & vegetables, fruits & flowers, arts & handicrafts, and domestic sciences arts & handicrafts, and domestic sciences

Acadian Festival Road Race Acadian Festival Road Race

Acazing Talent Show Acazing Talent Show

Horse Shows Horse Shows

Holstein Futurity Show Holstein Futurity Show 4-H Competitions 4-H Competitions

PEI Youth Talent Competition Finals PEI Youth Talent Competition Finals Cow Bingo Cow Bingo Bingo Bingo

Romain the Hypnotist Romain the Hypnotist

Magic and Illusion with Remi Boudreau

Magic and Illusion with Remi Boudreau

Friday Night Dance with Laurie LeBlanc

Friday Night Dance with Laurie LeBlanc

Saturday Afternoon Music and Comedy Show with Saturday Music Comedy Show

Nick, Samantha, Rémi, Debbie, and guest artists

Nick, Samantha, Rémi, Debbie, and guest artists

Saturday Night Dance with Réveil

Saturday Night Dance with Réveil

Sunday Afternoon Fiddling and Stepdancing Show

Sunday Afternoon Fiddling and Stepdancing Show

Sunday Night Closing Concert with various musicians

Sunday Night Closing Concert with various musicians

ACADIAN FEAST WITH LOBSTER & ENTERTAINMENT IAN

This bilingual family-friendly event features traditional Acadian dishes, lobster, and delivers high-energy entertainment, featuring the music group, Gadelle!

Friday, August 30th at 5:30 p.m. at the Village musical acadien. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

NATURE

Shrub Walk at Cape Bear Lighthouse

Join Gary Schneider of MacPhail Woods at Cape Bear Lighthouse on August 3 from 10–11 am for a walk around the grounds and learn to identify several species of local shrubs and plants. Bring water and wear suitable footwear.

Sunscreen and bug spray are also recommended. This event is free and open to all. 42 Black Brook Rd, Murray Harbour. Info: capebearlighthouse.com

will run from 2–3:30 pm, August 10, 17, 24 and 31. The group will meet at the Summerside Rotary Library, 57 Central St, before going outdoors to explore nature (even in the city). Learn to identify some trees, birds, plants, and butterflies, and incorporate nature journals for observation and sketching. Guidebooks and sketching supplies are included. Info/register: chris@naturepei.ca

Edible Flowers & Fermentation workshops

5–13 on Mondays and Fridays (all day), and Wednesday mornings. There are three different tour options available for groups to choose from: Wildlife Adventure, Arboretum Adventure, and Art in the Park. There are also self-led nature activities available to pick up near the Victoria Park clubhouse. These activities encourage nature-learning along with meaningful and fun time outside. Activities take 30–60 minutes and can be completed in the park, ideally with a parent/guardian. Info: charlottetown.ca

Wood walks for biodiversity

Walk & Talks with Kate MacQuarrie

PEI Untamed, with Biologist and Naturalist Kate MacQuarrie, offers a unique and immersive experience for those who are interested in the wild side of PEI. Activities include foraging, wild food recipes, PEI natural history, plant identification, tours and much more. These are complemented with free local content on the PEI Untamed website and social media. Upcoming events in August include: Never Before Scene (Aug 1); Foraging with the Beach Goats (15); and Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk (17). Info/register: pei-untamed.com

Coastal habitats and krummholz forests

A free workshop exploring the Island’s unique coastal habitats and wind-blown krummholz forests will be held in the Nature Centre at Macphail Homestead on August 10 from 10 am–12 noon. Growing along exposed shores, these gnarly and fascinating places are critical habitats for many native species as well as the Island’s natural shield against coastal winds, waves and flooding. No registration is required to attend. 271 MacPhail Pk Rd, Orwell.

Young Naturalists’ Club

Kids ages 11–14 are invited to join a

Roma is offering a series of workshops delving into the rich world of edible flowers, wild plants, and the art of lacto-fermentation. Led by Lise Morin and Ginette Turgeon, and running from 1–3 pm, the workshops are Dock Seed and Seaweed Special on August 11 and LactoFermentation Made Easy on September 8. Info/tickets: roma3rivers.com

Climate advocacy training

The PEI Coalition for Women in Government launched their new free workshop series, “Empowering Women and Gender-Diverse Advocates for Climate Resiliency.” This series of five transformative workshops aims to build a strong community of advocates equipped with the skills to drive policy changes and improve the environmental landscape of PEI. The workshops will be facilitated by Leading Impact Consulting, with a team of five climate and sector-relevant experts serving as project ambassadors. The five project ambassadors are Stephanie Arnold, Ramona Doyle, Heather Laiskonis, Sandra Moore, and Clara-Jane Wood. Workshop dates are: September 11, October 2 and 16, November 6 and tba. The deadline for applications is August 16. Applicants must be 16 years or older. Mileage and childcare reimbursements are available. Interested individuals can apply online at peiwomeningovernment.ca

Nature Education programs

The City of Charlottetown’s Parks and Recreation Dept has developed nature education programs for children to

After Hurricane Fiona, many trees, plants, bird and mammal species in PEI’s forested landscape suffered from decline or the threat of outright extinction due to pressures like habitat loss and climate change. In an effort to help raise awareness of this ongoing threat to Island biodiversity, the PEI Woodlot Owners Association is organizing a province-wide wood-walk and seminar series over the course of the next several months. Planning is underway for events at locales like Glenaladale Estate, MacPhail Woods and several trails in all three PEI counties. Interpretive expertise will be provided by noted PEI naturalists such as Clay Cutting (Invasive Species Council), Daniel MacRae (MacPhail Woods), Kate MacQuarrie (PEI Forest Fish and Wildlife) and Albert Flavell (master trail builder). Free eastern white cedar saplings will be made available at all events. Final event details will be available on the PEI Woodlot Owners Association website (peiwoa.ca) and FB page, or email peiwoodlotowners@gmail. com to be notified directly.

Reimagine Nature Education

The Reimagine Nature Education Conference will bring together teachers and Island nature educators to showcase resources and the power of outdoor learning. Registration is now closed, but for those interested in learning more about how to integrate nature education into their home, classroom or personal learning, there are resources on Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project’s website (macphailwoods.org), includ-

The Nature of PEI

by Gary Schneider

Amazing woodpecker

The Northern Flicker is a noisy bird, no question about it. That’s not a complaint—it usually doesn’t wake me up in the morning nor keep me up at night, so I’m happy hearing its calls and drumming. It is just different from some of those shy, quiet and hard-tosee species. “Brash” is a good term to describe these woodpeckers. They’re a little larger than a Blue Jay and are the second largest of the species that we have in the province, after the crowsized Pileated Woodpecker.

I was curious as to why this bird was called a “flicker” and there doesn’t seem to be a definitive answer. Some say it is from the distinctive call—“flicka, flicka, flicka.” But the actual, very loud call sounds more like “wicka, wicka, wicka.” Another source wrote about the flickering colours in flight from the feather shafts.

And of course, this led me to the two subspecies of this bird. The flickers in the east are Yellow-Shafted Flickers, while in the west they are Red-Shafted Flickers. The difference is the distinctive and bright colour of the shaft of the feather. When I was learning about birds, I’d read about Yellow-Shafted Flickers, and thought little about it as an identifier. But once we started banding birds at Macphail Woods and saw them close up, the yellow shafts were remarkable. It also makes for a clever common name—the yellowhammer.

Flickers are easy to notice. They have a bright white rump patch that flashes as they fly. Like other woodpeckers, their flight is best described as a series of “flaps” then a “glide”—once you get used to that, it is a real help in identifying woodpeckers. Overall, flickers are mottled, with black markings on a light breast and a darker back. They have a grey-ish head with a dark black breast band. The beak is large and slightly curved, useful for drumming

(to attract a mate or to scare off other nearby males), drilling nest holes, or digging for food.

Like all woodpeckers, they rely on dead or dying trees where they can find suitable nesting habitat. But flickers mostly forage on the ground, sometimes in groups of ten or more on the fall migration, looking for ants, beetles and other insects. That said, their diet can be quite variable. I once watched a pair feeding for hours on ripe common elderberries.

Flickers are primary cavity nesters and the holes they create are often used by other species of birds and small mammals. Saw Whet Owls have hooked beaks with which they tear apart mice and voles, but are physically unable to drill their own nest cavities. Fortunately, they make great use of abandoned flicker nests. The same goes for our Northern Flying Squirrels. Again, these animals are ill-suited to drilling into wood, but often make use of old woodpecker nests.

Northern Flickers can regularly be seen from Spring into the Fall migration season. Most migrate south into the American states, though some stay around all winter, especially if there is a lot of fruit remaining on shrubs such as sumac and dogwood.

Flickers play an important role in the life of a healthy forest. It is not just the small owls and flying squirrels that benefit from their presence. They are one of the birds that actually spreads fungi throughout the woodland that help break down cellulose and release nutrients and organic matter back into the soil.

Like many aspects of nature, flickers play multiple roles in our ecosystem and contribute to the overall health of our landscapes.

Island Nature Trust new ED

Island Nature Trust (INT) has appointed Melissa Cameron as its new Executive Director. Melissa brings a deep understanding of INT, having served as acting executive director over the past five months and through her previous role as manager of philanthropy.

Cameron has developed key relationships with donors and volunteers of the Trust and important supporters and stakeholders across the country. She is passionate about INT’s work in

protecting PEI’s varied and vulnerable ecosystems and engaging in outreach and education around these issues.

As executive director, Cameron will play a crucial role in advancing INT’s strategic vision. From its current position as the third largest landowner in the province, the Trust aims to acquire and steward ecologically important land ensuring that future generations can enjoy and benefit from PEI’s rich natural landscapes.

Cameron expressed her gratitude for her new role, stating, “I am honored to work at Island Nature Trust and to lead a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Together, we will continue to protect and conserve the natural legacy that makes Prince Edward Island unique. I am excited to contribute to the Trust’s mission and to honour the organization’s rich history.”

INT, celebrating its 45th anniversary, has a long history of success in land conservation, having protected 11,538 acres of land since its founding in 1979. Sustained by the generosity of Islanders who make a difference by directly supporting conservation efforts through donations and volunteer work, the Trust looks forward to furthering its efforts in Natural Area acquisition and stewardship, continuing to lead species-at-risk work on PEI, and fostering a deeper connection between people and nature.

islandnaturetrust.ca

FIEP DE BIE SUBMITTED

Melissa Cameron appointed

Talking from Experiences by

Ashleigh Tremere

Memories made

If you grew up “down East,” there is a place that probably holds a special spot in your childhood memories. When you hear its name, a flood of nostalgia hits you. You’re running through the woods, you’re swinging way too high, you’re climbing on statues made from the characters of your bedtime stories. You’re at Kings Castle Provincial Park.

Just outside Murray River, in the community of Gladstone, is where you can find it, nestled in what’s left of the woods Fiona cleared away on us. The interior of the park took quite a hit, but they’ve done a stellar job clearing that away and have done some replanting. The layout clearly had to change with the destruction, but the magic is still the same. It’s the kind of place you can go in the pouring rain, and your kids will still not want to leave. That has indeed been the case on our last two visits.

It’s a huge park with unique and traditional play equipment. A giant wooden fortress, complete with underground tunnel; a mammoth of a pumpkin sandbox, big enough for multiple kids and adults, complete with a slide; all manner of swings, including the inclusive accessible kinds; tons of climbing, bouncing, balancing things; and, of course, the story-time character statues. It’s the kind of place where kids just don’t get bored.

They also have a two-sided kitchen shelter you can use for a charcoal cookout or, in many of our cases, to hold a birthday party. There is a daily activity center where kids can do crafts and play games. There are clean flush bathrooms, and there’s a snack bar to get your ice cream fix. It’s all right along the beach. The beach does have its fair share of shells since it’s a river beach though. I’ve cut my foot more than once, so water shoes are advisable. You can probably do without if you’re older or more careful. The best part of all this fun? It’s free! You don’t have to pay to enter or park or stay and play all day.

When we were kids we’d go there for field trips at the end of the year or meet up with friends or family. Those days are fused into my memory. As a parent myself now, I really get the

appeal. It’s well off the road and even if ya can’t keep your kids in sight at all times, you know they’re safe. So you can toss out a blanket, read your book, and let them run a while between sunscreening and spot checks. If you get too hot, you just wander down to the shore and take a dip.

Kings Castle is the kind of place you make a day of. Even now, when the drive from our home is an hour, we still pack up once a summer and make the journey. If you forget something, no big deal. There is a gas station and multiple restaurants or bakeries five minutes away.

Bad buzz

In Ashleigh’s recent column, “Missed fortunes” (July 2024 issue), she refers to a Psychic Fair being part of the PEI Witches Market at The Guild in June. Regretfully, The Buzz had included those incorrect details (from a similar past event) in the event listing on our website, so her expectations were misled going in—specifically with the number of readers and energy healer.

The Buzz apologies to Ashleigh and family (and other affected attendees) for sending them in with misinformation, and to the organizers of the PEI Witches Market for the bad buzz that resulted from it.

Attention Residential Tenants and Landlords

The Residential Tenancy Office invites written comments in French/English from tenants and landlords on the maximum allowable rent increase for 2025.

Deadline for comments is Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

Comments can be emailed to:

MaximumAllowable@peirentaloffice.ca (or)

Mailed/Delivered to:

Residential Tenancy Office 5th floor, National Bank Tower

134 Kent Street, PO Box 577 Charlottetown, PEI C1A 7L1

For information on previous allowable increases go to: peirentaloffice.ca/allowable-rent-increases/

ISSUE# 368 • AUGUST 2024

buzzpei.com @buzzpei

Editor: Yanik Richards

Editor: Michelle Ollerhead

Website: Nakeesa Aghdasy

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

Contributors: Chris Bailey, Julie Bull, Dennis Ellsworth, Wyatt Gallant, Sean McQuaid, Takako Morita, Norah Pendergast, JoDee Samuelson, Tara Reeves, Gary Schneider, Bren Simmers, Trudy Spooner, Ashleigh Tremere

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The Buzz is published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc.

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.

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.

Cover:

Your Daddy’s Rich And Your Mama’s Good Looking, Acrylic on canvas, 24”x 30” by Trudy Spooner

Island Trudy Spooner started painting to keep her hands busy during her spare time. She paints with acrylic on canvas and loves the thrill and pride of making something and having a finished product.

“As my practice developed, I found myself most inspired by photos of family and friends in moments in which they were devoid of distraction, just living and enjoying pure happiness. This is when they were most radiant,” says Spooner. “This joy is now what I aim to capture.”

Follow her work on instagram at @therealtrudyspooner.

SEPTEMBER

BUZZ

DEADLINE

Submissions and advertising booking deadline for the September issue: Thursday, August 15

Simone, Trudy’s muse

Indoor Yard sale

An indoor yard sale will take place at Central Queens United on August 7 from 8 am–12 noon. This church fundraiser will feature a large variety of items including plants, houseware, Christmas decorations, clothing, jewelry, books, children’s articles, hardware and more. The church is located on Route 2 in Hunter River.

Market Day

A market to celebrate and support local crafters and small Island businesses will take place on August 10 at The Guild, located at 111 Queen Street in Charlottetown, from 12–5 pm. Free admission to the public.

Antique & Vintage Sale

An Antique and Vintage Sale will take place at Canoe Cove School daily from 9 am–6 pm on August 16–18. There will be a selection of old time treasures, collectibles, retro curios and unexpected finds. Rte 19, Canoe Cove.

Fundraising Pottery Sale

The annual fundraising sale for the PEI Potters Studio, a not-for-profit co-op, will be held on August 17 from 12–4 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House, 2

SALES ENJOY

Kent Street, in Charlottetown. Work by studio members and students as well as professional potters will be available for purchase. Funds raised from the sale will help the studio provide opportunities for children and adults to learn about and enjoy working with clay. Info: peipottersstudio.ca

Musicabilia Market

The musicabilia market offers a selection of vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, audio equipment and more. Open weekly on Saturdays from 10 am–4 pm, upstairs at Plough The Waves Hall. Small admission fee at the door. 13056 Shore Rd, Wood Islands. Info: wiadc@woodislands.ca

Summerside Seaside Market

A vendor market at Spinnakers Landing runs every Saturday from 1–5 pm until August 31, (weather permitting). Visitors can find unique crafts and local art. Follow @Summerside Seaside Market on Facebook for updates. 150 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Three Rivers Heritage Market

The market offers a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s rich heritage with a variety of handcrafted treasures and local artisans demonstrating with pottery, textiles, jewelry and more. It includes traditional dishes from

the Heritage Kitchen, fire oven-baked homemade bread and live Acadian and Scottish music. Talented storytellers and actors will transport attendees back to the 1700s with captivating tales and performances and skilled artisans will demonstrate bushcraft, navigation and cod fishing techniques from the Roma era. Open weekly on Saturdays until August 24, from 10 am–2 pm. Roma at Three Rivers National Historic Site (505 Roma Pt Rd), Brudenell. Info: roma1732@ gmail.com, roma3rivers.com

Cornwall Library Book Sale

The Friends of the Cornwall Library are holding their annual book sale at the Cornwall Town Hall from 9 am–5 pm daily, August 29–31. Proceeds will go to the Friends of the Library to support programs and events. 15 Mercedes Dr, Cornwall. Info: 902-629-8415

Gifts from the Heart sales

Gifts from the Heart holds an End of Month Sale on the last Saturday of each month, offering the general public a chance to thrift shop the inventory. The next sale is August 31 from 10 am–3 pm. Proceeds from the monthly sales help to defray operating costs. Serving clients throughout PEI, Betty Begg-Brooks and volunteers at Gifts From The Heart offer free food, clothing, furniture and housewares to qualified low income families and those experiencing temporary hardship. 10 Maple Hills Ave, Charlottetown.

Patience, Sportsmans Club, Charlottetown (photo: Wyatt Gallant)

Anne & Gilbert

20th season features almost all–Islander cast and crew

Anne & Gilbert, now in its 20th season, continues until October 15 at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown.

Leading the Island presence is director Wade Lynch from Charlottetown, who is directing the musical for the second time. Choreographer Mackenzie Cutcliffe returns for a second year, and Music Director Don Fraser, joins the team for 2024.

Island actors include Rebekah Brown as Anne Shirley, with Allegra Wright, Annalise Lunn, Hayden Lysecki, Beth Rogers, and Gabby Roddy in prominent roles. Additional Islanders in the cast are Holly Perry, Isabella Butler, Bradley Kelly, and Marius Lavoie.

Rebekah Brown stars as Anne Shirley

Island Fringe Festival

Ten plays to catch at various locations in Charlottetown

This year’s Island Fringe Festival (IFF) runs from July 31–August 4 and features a lineup of 10 shows and over 40 performances, including drama, comedy, musicals and storytelling, at venues in downtown Charlottetown. The four-day indie theatre and performance festival supports independent, boundary-pushing theatre and live performance at affordable rates.

Nancy White, co-writer and composer of Anne & Gilbert, brings her celebrated comedic songwriting to the production. White was born and raised on the Island.

The PEI connection extends backstage with Samantha Bruce, Sarah Bruce, Susan Bruce, Joe Byrne, Pat

Caron, Jane Follwell, Gloria Hastie, Peggy Pineau, Mark Sheridan, Dylan Smith, and Campbell Webster, along with musicians Laurie Forsyth and Jeffrey Bazett-Jones.

Opposite Brown is Islanderby-choice for the summer Graysen LaPointe, from Fredericton, NB, who stars as Gilbert Blythe.

Visit anneandgilbert.com or call 1-877 566-3346 for tickets.

Sensory-friendly theatre

Inclusive performances at Confederation Centre

Confederation Centre of the Arts is offering sensory-friendly performances at The 2024 Charlottetown Festival for Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ and Jersey Boys

Sensory-friendly performances, also known as relaxed performances, are designed to make theatre spaces more welcoming for audience members who may experience anxiety, are sensory-sensitive, or are not comfortable with the conventions of a theatre setting. Sensory-friendly performances can benefit a wide variety of patrons, including those who are neurodiverse, pregnant people, nursing parents, seniors, people with service animals, or anyone who has sensitivity to stimuli.

“At a sensory-friendly performance, the usual rules are relaxed to create a

SEPTEMBER BUZZ

Thursday, August 15

welcoming environment for everyone,” says Adam Brazier, the Centre’s artistic director of performing arts. “These performances offer a unique and often more immersive experience compared to traditional shows, and guests can stand, stretch, or leave at any time.”

Lighting, sound levels, and stage effects are gently adjusted to create a comfortable and inclusive theatre-going experience, allowing people to enjoy the show without fear of suppressing their natural responses. House lights remain on during the show at a low level, and sound effects will not include any sudden bangs or surprises.

Brazier adds, “We have been offering sensory-friendly performances at The Charlottetown Festival since 2019 to ensure everyone in our community has a chance to enjoy theatrical programming at the Centre.”

Two sensory-friendly performances will take place this summer; one for Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ on August 6 at 1 pm, and one for Jersey Boys on August 29 at 1:30 pm. confederationcentre.com

How It Happened (Charlottetown, PEI), produced by Desert Island Theatre Company, tells the story of Prudence (Hannah McGaughey) and Mitchell (John MacCormac), life-long best friends who suddenly realize one day that they can no longer be friends. Told with humour mixed with moments of unflinching emotional honesty, How It Happened examines the grief and confusion that comes with the dissolution of a platonic relationship, which can often be more difficult than the dissolution of a romantic one. The show is directed by Benton Hartley with assistance from Candace Hagen, and stage managed by Graham Putnam.

Ink Addicted (Orlando, FL) is the first solo-show from tattoo artist Chris Trovador. Audience members will laugh ’til they cry at Chris’ hilarious journey from ink newbie to multi-hyphenate artist—they might even leave with a buzz-worthy tattoo of their own. More than just laughs, this show includes body art as performance, live painting, clowning, poetry, music, dance, and improv.

After The Chorus Line (Charlottetown, PEI), a musical comedy written, produced and performed by Gabrielle Roddy and Gregory Ellard, is a silly and touching look at the way things change as we age. The story is told through two older actors trying to stay relevant and visible in an ever-youthful industry. Each scene is an “audition” that speaks to different elements of aging, as well as the wackiness that is the process of auditioning.

Nostos Collectives brings their latest triple feature of three contemporary dance works, Enchantment (Halifax, NS). With choreography by Jessica Lowe, Marrin Jessome and Rosie Halpin, Enchantment (Halifax, NS) follows a feminist theme, and is filled with striking visuals, athleticism, and emotional and witty storytelling about the woman experience.

Written by Lauren Jean Lawlor and directed by Rebecca Parent, Thinking About a Dog (Charlottetown, PEI) follows Mia, who is trying not to panic as she re-enters the shallow dating scene in her small town. Staying out until last call and hiring a talk show

host as her therapist isn’t helping. Her big break hinges on finding something that will.

Written and performed by Julie Bull, Short Circuits (Charlottetown, PEI) is directed by Mariève MacGregor and features soundscapes by Siddhu Sachidananda, Julie Bull, and The Umbrella Collective. Short Circuits asks: How well do you know yourself? Can you identify where you begin, and others end? Have you ever asked yourself, “who am I?” Contemplating these philosophical questions, this show examines the intricacies, tensions, and confusions of a soul having a human experience. By taking the audience on a journey from the head to the heart, this poly-disciplinary show is an exploration of be(com)ing human.

IFF 2024 also features How to be a Vase (Charlottetown, PEI), Thinking about a Dog (Charlottetown, PEI), Cornflake (Montreal, QC), Furniture Boys (Brooklyn, NY), and So an Autistic Priest and a Service Dog Walked into a Bar... (Dorval, QC).

Visit The Guild, home to both the opening and closing events, at 111 Queen Street to purchase tickets, explore art, meet some of the performers, and enjoy family-friendly activities.

The complete IFF performance schedule, individual show details, ratings, and much more are available at islandfringe.com.

John MacCormac and Hannah McGaughey - How It Happened (above) and Chris Trovador - Ink Addicted

La Veillée au Village

Comedy, music, singing and dancing

La Veillée au Village dinner theatre continues this month with performances at 6:30 pm on August 1, and every Tuesday and Wednesday until August 28. Presented in French, the show features comedy, music, singing, dancing, and a four-course meal.

The 2024 troupe includes Louise Arsenault, Jonathan Arsenault, Shane Arsenault, and duo Rémi Arsenault and Caroline Bernard, who direct.

La Veillée au Village pays tribute to the Acadian artists from the Evangeline region and beyond, including Rustico, Louisiana, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Quebec.

Tickets must be reserved or purchased in advance. A cash is available during the performance. villagemusical.ca

River Clyde Pageant

Performances continue in New Glasgow—Aug 1 to 4

The River Clyde Pageant continues from August 1–4 along the banks of the River Clyde in New Glasgow.

This year’s Pageant explores themes of disruption, transformation, and the constellations that connect us all, and features artists and community performers in roles as puppeteers, stilt-walkers, musicians, dancers, and actors. The show begins with a celebratory outdoor procession down a hillside. The audience gathers at the base of the hill to experience the emergence of a cast of characters from a living set built from windfall from Hurricane Fiona and woven willow branches, designed by Ian McFarlane. Performances start at 7:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday shows are followed by an outdoor meal prepared by Chef Emily Wells of The Mill in New Glasgow. Visit riverclydepageant. com for remaining tickets, transportation assistance, shuttle service, or to subscribe to their newsletter.

Review by Sean McQuaid

A comfy jukebox

Jersey Boys

Charlottetown Festival, Sobey Family Theatre

June 28, 2024

Last year, the Charlottetown Festival was thinking outside the box: benching Anne of Green Gables, hosting a new musical, even running a non-musical mainstage show. This year’s lineup sees the festival thinking inside the box—“Jukebox, that is,” says your cartoony critic in his best Foghorn Leghorn voice.

Anne is back, the all-musical line-up is back, and the non-Anne mainstage show is the festival’s favourite type of non-Anne show: a jukebox musical, a show built around preexisting popular songs. In this case it’s Tony-winning international hit Jersey Boys (first staged in 2004), showcasing the classic pop tunes of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.

So, yes, it’s a summer of theatrical comfort food on the mainstage this year, but that’s okay—the Charlottetown Festival excels at this stuff, and Jersey Boys is an especially tasty variation on the old reliable jukebox musical recipe.

With a book written by Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice and featuring vintage songs by Four Seasons founding member Bob Gaudio and the band’s early producer Bob Crewe, Jersey Boys boasts an irresistibly hummable soundtrack and a lively semi-true story, how the original Four Seasons rose to fame but broke up at the height of their success.

Various people and events are omitted, inserted, reshuffled, remixed or otherwise modified, and the group’s founders—doubling here as dueling narrators—give Rashomon-like conflicting accounts of it all; but the broad strokes echo the group’s real-life story, an engaging yarn full of humour, heartbreak and big, colourful characters.

Biggest and best of those characters are the boys from New Jersey, the original Four Seasons: smalltime hustler Tommy DeVito (played here with goofy swagger by Tyler Check) and oddball musical savant Nick Massi (an inscrutably intense Jacob Hemphill), a pair of struggling musicians who moonlight as petty crooks (or vice versa); their naïve younger friend and protégé Frankie (played with passionate, Valli-esque falsetto flair by Aaron MacKenzie), a gifted singer; and their later recruit Bob Gaudio (a likeably earnest Trevor Patt), a smart and business-savvy songwriter.

The Frankie-Tommy bond is the story’s strongest thread, a tragic show biz variation on Treasure Island’s old Long John Silver/Jim Hawkins dynamic,

an especially tasty variation on the old reliable recipe

the young man estranged from an older, shadier mentor. In a musical full of love stories, the most compelling ones are this doomed brotherly love and the entire quartet’s shared love of music. Frankie’s closing speech about the pure joy of the group’s early work, played beautifully by MacKenzie, is the show’s most moving moment.

Supporting cast standouts include an exuberant Eric Dahlinger as the band’s excitable young hanger-on and future movie star Joe Pesci; the sultryturned-sour Kaleigh Gorka as Frankie’s first wife Mary Delgado; a charming Melissa MacKenzie as Frankie’s girlfriend Lorraine; the off-kilter appeal of Andrew McAllister as an eccentric Bob Crewe; and the artfully understated comic timing of Laurie Murdoch as Jersey mob boss Gyp de Carlo and other characters. Highlights of director Adam Brazier’s solid production include set/ costume designer William Layton, whose period outfits and ever-shifting array of frames, backdrops, signs and compactly evocative mini-sets keep the story handsomely situated; the lively lighting design of Renee Brode (I’m a sucker for a well-deployed disco ball); and the musical direction of Bob Foster, who leads his crackerjack pit band and the show’s fine onstage singers in rollicking re-creations of hits like “Oh What a Night” and “Who Loves You.” Those happily familiar, endearingly catchy tunes give Jersey Boys a big head start in winning over its audience, but a strong script well-executed by Brazier’s company makes this jukebox musical as compelling as it is comfortable.

Jersey Boys performances continue at Sobey Family Theatre in Charlottetown until September 21.Visit confederationcentre.com for ticktes.

AGM for ACT

ACT (a community theatre) will host its Annual General Meeting on August 12 at 7 pm. The organization is welcoming people to join its board. Email actproductionspei@gmail.com for more information.

All are welcome to attend the meeting at the Fox and Crow Pub on the UPEI campus in Charlottetown.

(L–R): The cast of La Veillée au Village 2024

Watermark Theatre

Two plays running in North Rustico until the end of August

Misery

The stage version of the Stephen King thriller Misery, adapted by William Goldman and directed by Rahul Gandhi, continues at Waterfront Theatre in North Rustico with performances on select dates until August 30.

In Misery, true life becomes stranger than fiction when an acclaimed romance novelist, played by Rob MacLean, wakes up in the home of his “Number One Fan,” played by Jody Stevens. 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.

Same Time, Next Year

The romantic comedy Same Time, Next Year, by Canadian playwright Bernard Slade and directed by Robert Tsonos, continues on select dates until August 31 at the Watermark Theatre.

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. Cameron MacDuffee and Jody Stevens star as the starry-eyed lovers.

For tickets to Misery and Same Time, Next Year, visit locarius.io/organizations/26 or call 902-963-3963.

Two Tellers & Tunes

Featuring Gary Evans and Alan Buchanan

Hilarious and heartwarming, Two Tellers & Tunes at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown showcases the best in Island storytelling and music, featuring two of the infamous Four Tellers, Gary Evans and Alan Buchanan.

The pair will be on the Playhouse stage every Monday this month with the full array of characters and stories that have come to define their brand of entertainment as “the real Island deal.”

Audiences will be treated to both storytellers and fiddlers. Joining Buchanan and Evans on stage are Island singer-songwriters, Norman Stewart and Maxine MacLennan, along with fiddler Courtney

Hogan-Chandler, as well as occasional guest musicians. Showtime is at 7:30 pm. For tickets, visit kingsplayhouse.com or call 902-652-2053.

Alan Buchanan (left) and Gary Evans

DAVID GLADSTONE

Cameron MacDuffee (left) and Jody Stevens star in Same Time, Next Year

Review by Norah Pendergast

Twists of fate

Same Time, Next Year Watermark Theatre, North Rusico July 12, 2024

This summer, Watermark Theatre stays true to its tradition of offering critically acclaimed productions with Same Time, Next Year, a massively successful Canadian play written in 1975 that spent four years on Broadway, won Tony Awards, and was adapted into a major motion picture.

This sophisticated rom-com introduces the two lead characters in a hotel room the morning after a one night stand. The story follows Doris, played by Jody Stevens, and George, played by Cameron MacDuffee, through twenty-four years of their extra-marital affair, played out in an annual extramarital rendez-vous. The couple wrestles with moral judgements, ruminating guilt complexes, and intense physical attraction. Through dialogue, their home lives and family dynamics are revealed.

As the decades pass from the 1950s to the 1980s, viewers witness the social eras through the personal lives of the characters and via lively references to the wider world. The rhythm of the production is anchored by Doris and George’s periodic connections to global historical events, with time lapses that contrast with the immediacy of the contemporary era of social media.

Cameron MacDuffee, who has starred in many productions for the Charlottetown Festival, plays the neurotic accountant and family man, George. Jody Stevens, a seasoned actor of stage and screen, plays Doris, a proper Italian mother whose alibi for her absences is an annual Catholic retreat. Both actors navigate the evolution of their characters convincingly; the attraction to escape from the social responsibility and family duties is highly relatable, as they deal with the consequences of liberation and the

confines of gender through the bends and twists in their lives.

The two strong leads carry the script, drawing on humour and compassion in their storytelling. The intimacy of the hotel room set offers an alluring voyeuristic experience of emotional gymnastics and very human, though scandalous, behaviour. Viewers can expect an excellent period comedy played out during the wider culture clashes of the Cold War era, including some of the rhetoric of ideological social trends, political beliefs, and pop psychology. Clever sound and costume design signal the passing of years.

In the first half of Same Time, Next Year, the action builds and viewers are lulled. As in life, twists of fate in the second half leave audience members audibly gasping, and I was left laughing at the prisons we build for ourselves and convinced of how attractive vulnerability is within the human motivations that connect us through time and place.

Written by Bernard Slade, the play is directed by Robert Tsonos, with support by Khushi Chavda (set and costumes), Alison Crosby (lighting), Aaron Comeau (sound), and Anne Putnam, Kate Redding and Katie Fitzgerald (stage managers).

Same Time, Next Year continues on select dates until August 31 at the Watermark Theatre in North Rustico. watermarktheatre.com

Highland Storm

Highland Storm continues at the Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside with performances August 7, 8, 14 and 15.

Highland Storm is the story of the Scots arriving on PEI over 250 years ago and a reimagining of their first year on the Island. Directed by Peter Gallant, the show is performed by the College’s instructors and students, and features fiddler Gilbert Arsenault and vocalist Christine Gallant. collegeofpiping.com

Charlottetown Festival

Something old, something new and something borrowed

Anne of Green Gables

Musical™

Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ continues at Confederation Centre of the Arts until August 31.

Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ tells the story of a freckle-faced, redhaired orphan named Anne Shirley that will inspire the imagination, tickle a funny bone, and mesmerize audiences with its singing and dancing. The Canadian classic is a humourous, touching, and dynamic musical that has been entertaining Islanders and visitors alike since 1965.

The musical stars actors Kelsey Verzotti and Laurie Murdoch, who played Anne Shirley and Matthew Cuthbert in the 2022 Festival production.

The 2024 presentation of Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ coincides with 150th birthday celebrations for author Lucy Maud Montgomery.

Jersey Boys

Jersey Boys performances continue at Sobey Family Theatre, the main stage at Confederation Centre of the Arts, until September 21.

This jukebox musical tells the ragsto-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 received four Tony Awards, including Best Musical, the Olivier

Award for Best New Musical; and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album.

Becoming Dolly

Becoming Dolly continues at The 2024 Charlottetown Festival with performances at The Mack on select dates until August 24.

Islander Jessica Gallant steps inside the story of Dolly Parton, one of the greatest singer-songwriters of our time. This cabaret show takes a musical journey through the country music legend’s life with renditions of iconic songs like “9 to 5,” “Coat of Many Colours,” “Jolene,” and more.

“Bringing a show I created to The Charlottetown Festival is something beyond my wildest dreams,” says Gallant. “Dolly Parton is a symbol of authenticity, generosity, and power; I’m thrilled to be exploring her stories deeper and developing this piece at The Mack.”

confederationcentre.com

Locally

The cast of Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™ (2024)

Review by Sean McQuaid

Flashes of brilliance

Misery

Watermark Theatre, North Rustico July 13, 2024

It’s a slimmer, sadder summer for smaller PEI theatres this year, with fewer Island venues staging plays. Thankfully, the stalwart Watermark Theatre is bucking that trend with multiple shows. Darkest of these is Misery, based on the 1987 psychological horror novel by Stephen King. That book was adapted into the iconic film Misery (1990) by screenwriter William Goldman, who wrote this stage version of the story in 2012.

Said story features celebrated romance novelist Paul Sheldon (played by Robert MacLean) and his self-proclaimed “number one fan,” eccentric nurse Annie Wilkes (Jody Stevens). Annie rescues Paul from a wintry car crash and treats his injuries in her nearby country cabin, but Paul soon wonders what his intensely odd savior really wants from him… and whether she’s ever going to let him leave.

Goldman’s script distills the story to its key elements with a single location (Annie’s cabin), streamlined action and an even smaller cast than the already-condensed movie. The play is mostly Annie and Paul, though wily Sheriff Buster (Cameron MacDuffee) eventually pops up, too, investigating Paul’s disappearance.

The play’s 2015 Broadway production had a revolving set with multiple rooms. On Watermark’s compact stage, it’s a single room that transforms into other rooms. These look nice (kudos to designer Khushi Chavda’s solemnly homey puzzle box of a set), but the changes sometimes require prolonged intervention by multiple stagehands. Depending on how their movements are placed or lit, it feels disruptive at times.

At their best, some of the scene changes feel like mini-scenes of their own—MacLean engaging in business while stagehands move murkily in semi-darkness behind him, Stevens staying in character as Annie while moving things herself—but some of the bigger, brighter, longer switches have a slightly awkward Kuroko feel.

Misery has lots of violence, and while much of it is harrowingly convincing here, some action doesn’t fully land—a clearly nonexistent barbecue fire, a pivotal climactic downstage bludgeoning that doesn’t quite click— and in a venue as small as Watermark, little glitches feel bigger.

While the space’s intimacy magnifies technical hiccups, it also enhances the story’s immediacy and emotional potency—watching this production is a bit like being trapped in that cabin

characters flicker in and out of darkness, flashes of movement captured like still photographs

with Annie and Paul yourself, ratcheting up the tension of Goldman’s already inherently suspenseful script.

Director Rahul Gandhi’s best assets in this regard are a crackerjack cast. MacDuffee conveys sly, understated intelligence as Buster, and MacLean (full disclosure: a past collaborator of mine) runs a multi-faceted stage marathon here as the long-suffering Paul, depicting pain and fear and frustration, often wordlessly, while adroitly mining the character’s archly comedic streak. Best of all is Stevens as Annie Wilkes, one of the meatiest, creepiest roles an actor could ever want, and Stevens crushes it. There are brief echoes of Kathy Bates’ star-making turn as the character, but Stevens makes the role uniquely hers with a child-like energy that layers dark girlish charm into the part, Annie Wilkes mixed with Anne Shirley.

Watermark’s thrust stage, enveloped by its audience on three sides, always has tricky conflicting sight lines. Gandhi’s blocking gives the center seating a bit too much of Stevens’ back by times, especially in the first act; but overall, it’s a well-balanced, shifting array of angles over the course of the show.

Aaron Comeau’s sound design builds place and mood, from quiet tension to seat-rattling booms, bangs and crashes. Even better is Alison Crosby’s artful lighting design, especially during lightning-splashed storm scenes where the characters flicker in and out of darkness, flashes of movement captured like still photographs. One scene’s brief glimpse of a shadowy, lightning-silhouetted Annie in a doorway behind Paul is gloriously eerie, like a Night Gallery painting come to life.

Weirdly beautiful lighting, Goldman’s harrowing script and Stevens’ wickedly giggly, quicksilver-faced Annie all help make this sometimes inelegant, oft-brilliant rendition of Misery an indelibly memorable thriller.

Misery continues at Waterfront Theatre in North Rustico with performances on select dates until August 30. watermarktheatre.com

Island Steps

Lively dance and music in the Outdoor Amphitheatre

A dynamic new show from Island performers will bring lively dance and music to The 2024 Charlottetown Festival this month. The acclaimed Roberts Academy of Dance and Xclusiv Crew have collaborated on the new production Island Steps. This high-energy dance show explores the fusion of traditional Island step with Caribbean and South American movement, demonstrating how diverse cultures can come together and share their love for dance.

The company of Island Steps features dancers from both groups, including Maggie Burns, Brigitte Carroll, Joe Dames, Elan Mackey, Charlie MacLaren, Abigail McCarthy, Maddie Mossey, Alex Rodriguez, Hope Smith, and Reequal Smith. The show is choreographed by Juliette Roberts, owner of Roberts Academy of Dance, and Dawn Ward-Dames,

co-director of Xclusiv Crew and associate artistic director at Confederation Centre of the Arts.

Dancers have prepared for the performance by training in each other’s disciplines, with step dancers embracing Caribbean movement and vice versa. “Dance is a universal language, and this project is a cultural exchange that gives performers an opportunity to learn and embrace new styles,” says Ward-Dames. “Prince Edward Island is full of diverse talent and cultures, and we are excited to fuse genres together to create something unique and reflective of our community.”

Island Steps runs weekdays at noon from August 1–30. Performances take place in the Outdoor Amphitheatre at Confederation Centre of the Arts. Admission is free with donations gratefully welcomed.

confederationcentre.com

A PEI Whodunnit

Feast Dinner Theatre at Rodd Charlottetown in August

This summer, Feast Dinner Theatre is presenting the musical comedy, A Shellfish Mystery: A PEI Whodunnit, an interactive music and dining experience filled with suspense, intrigue, comedy and fun. Performances run at the Rodd Charlottetown through August.

Lights! Camera! ... Murder? Mystery and nonsense are abound in A Shellfish Mystery. Chaos ensues as the Callaghan family patriarch suspects imminent danger on the set of his

beloved cooking show, and everyone in attendance is a suspect. As hilarity and intrigue unfolds, only one thing is certain: on PEI, it’s not long before one family’s business becomes everybody’s business.

Feast Dinner Theatre is officially the longest running dinner theatre in Canada, bringing musical comedy to audiences across the country for over four decades, with over 150 created shows across 25 locations. feastdinnertheatres.com

DAVE BROSHA

The company of Island Steps (2024)

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

››› until Aug 24 | select dates

Becoming Dolly The Mack, Charlottetown

››› until Aug 28 | Tue & Wed

La Veillée au Village 2024

Dinner theatre. Village Musical Acadien, Abram-Village

››› until Aug 29 | Tue–Fri, 1:30 & 3 pm

La Gang à Manu

Village Musical Acadien, Abram-Village

››› until Aug 29 | Thu, 8 pm

Never Before Scene

Featuring Albert Arsenault, Laurie Murphie and special guests: Kate MacQuarrie (Aug 1); Nathan Wiley (8); Catherine MacLellan (15); Dr. Ed MacDonald (22); Rebekah Brown (29). Haviland Club, Charlottetown

››› until Aug 30 | select dates

Misery

Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

››› until Aug 31 | select dates

Anne of Green Gables—The Musical™

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

››› until Aug 31 | select dates

Same Time, Next Year

Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

››› until Sept 21 | select dates

Jersey Boys

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

››› until Oct 15 | select dates

Anne & Gilbert: The Musical

Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

Aug | Tue, 7 pm & Wed, 1 pm

Pipe Organ Concert Series

Ft. Jason Chen (Aug 6/7), Robyn Perry (13/14), Luc Lalonde (20/21) and Devon Turner (26/27).

Tue: St. Simon & St. Jude, Tignish Wed: St. Dunstan’s Basilica, Charlottetown

Aug | select dates

A Shellfish Mystery: A PEI Whodunnit

Feast Dinner Theatres. Rodd Charlottetown

Mondays | 8 pm

Rat Tales Comedy Night

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Aug 1–4

The Island Fringe Festival

10 shows at various locations. (islandfringe.com) Charlottetown

Aug 1–4 |

River Clyde Pageant

New Glasgow

Aug 1, 9, 10, 14, 15, 23, 24, 30, 31 | 8 pm

Aug 10, 14, 24, 31 | 2 pm

The Leonard Cohen

Songbook

Feat Mike Ross, Amanda Jackson*/Keziah Collie*, Brandon Howard Roy, Tanya Davis, Carlie Howell and Garrett Sherwood. Harmony House, Hunter River

Aug 1 | 7:30 pm

Saltwater Hank Souris Show Hall, Souris

Aug 1 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Jacob Reddin and the Striped Shirt Band

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Aug 1–4 | 8 pm

A Kind of Magic: A Night of Queen!

Craig Fair Music production ft. Brandon Howard Roy, Joce Reyome, Josée Boudreau and Craig Fair. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 1–30 | 12 pm

Island Steps

Roberts Academy of Dance and Xclusiv Crew. Outdoor Amphitheatre, Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

Aug 2 | 7:30 pm

Archtype Trad

Ft. Kate Bevan-Baker & Émilie Brûlé, with Olivier Arseneault. Bonshaw Hall, Bonshaw

Aug 2 | 7:30 pm

Midsummer Magic: The Four Seasons and a Melting Iceberg by Pallade Musica

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 2 | 8 pm

Fundraiser with Jordan Leclair

Village Musical Acadien, Abram-Village

Aug 2 | 8 pm

J.P. Cormier

Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 2, 3

The Wonder of it All

Souris Show Hall, Souris

Aug 2, 3, 7, 8, 16, 17, 21, 22 | 8 pm

Aug 3, 7, 17, 21 | 2 pm

The 27 Club

Ft. Mike Ross, Brielle Ansems, Keziah Collie, Carlie Howell, Max Keenlyside and Kirk White. Harmony House, Hunter River

Aug 2, 10, 17, 20, 22 | 7:30 pm

Aug 7, 15 | 1 pm

Stan Rogers: A Matter of Heart

Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 2, 9, 16, 23 | 8 pm

Summer Cabaret Concert

Village Musical Acadien, Abram-Village

Aug 3 | 8 pm

Laura Cortese

Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 3 | 8 pm

Gordie MacKeeman & His Rhythm Boys

Stompin’ Tom Festival Series. Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond

Aug 4 | 3 pm

Midsummer Magic: Bach & Bagels with Sarah Hagen

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 4 | 7 pm

JP LeBlanc; Brad Milligan & Brooke MacArthur; Ivan & Vivian Hicks

Mont-Carmel Parish Hall, Mont-Carmel

Aug 4 | 7:30 pm

Lawrence Maxwell

Rock Barra Retreat, Souris

Aug 4, 11, 18, 25 | 4 pm

Aug 7, 14, 21 | 8 pm

Lightfoot - A Celebration of the Man & His Music

Ft. Nudie & The Sundowners. Victoria Playhouse, Victoria-by-the-Sea

Aug 5, 6, 13, 20 | 8 pm

Patrick Ledwell & Friend

With special guest opener: Mark Haines (Aug 5/6); secret guests (13); Liam Corcoran (20). Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 5, 12, 19, 26 | 7:30 pm

Two Tellers & Tunes

Featuring Gary Evans and Alan Buchanan with special guests. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Aug 6 | 7 pm

Bonshaw Hall Ceilidh

Ft. Nick, Sharon & Steve, Denis Larocque & John MacAllar, Guy Robichaud, and Tony Reddin. Bonshaw Hall, Bonshaw

Aug 6 | 8 pm

Richard Wood

Seaside Musical Revival hosted by Barry O’Brien & Brent Chaisson. Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 7 | 7:30 pm

Island Proud with Alicia Toner

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 7, 8, 14, 15 | 7:30 pm

Highland Storm 2024

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Aug 7, 8, 14, 16, 21, 22, 29, 30 | 7:30 pm

Super Trouper: A Night of ABBA

Craig Fair Music production ft. Julain

Molnar, Kelley Mooney, Josée Boudreau, Izzy Serebrov, and Craig Fair.PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Aug 8 | 12:10 pm

Tanner Burns, bass-baritone

Kirk Recital Series. Kirk of St. James, Charlottetown

Aug 8 | 7:30 pm

JS Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow

Harpist Lori Gemmell, pianist Andy Creeggan, violinists and singers Karen Graves and Kate Bevan-Baker, and storyteller Tom Allen. Bonshaw Hall, Bonshaw

Aug 8 | 7:30 pm

Kitchen Party with Rum Ragged

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 8 | 8 pm

Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 8 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Garrett Sherwood Quartet

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Aug 8, 9 | 8 pm

The Ennis Sisters

Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

K Trevor Wilson

Stand-up comedian at Harbourfront Theatre in September

Comedy Records presents Letterkenny’s K Trevor Wilson performing his stand-up comedy at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on September 21 at 7:30 pm. He will be joined by local comedians Dan Hendricken and Clare Belford.

K Trevor Wilson has spent over 20 years in entertainment. A star from the award-winning Letterkenny and Roast Battles Canada, he has also appeared on LOL Canada, What Would Sal Do, and Breakout Kings.

As a stand-up comedian, Wilson has performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Comedy Central’s Roast Battles as well as at the New York Comedy Festival, Moontower Festival, Winnipeg Comedy Festival and Just For Laughs in Montreal.

Tickets and details are available at ktrevorwilson.com and comedyrecords.ca and harbourfronttheatre.com.

Patrick Ledwell

Comedy series continues at Trailside Music Hall

Patrick Ledwell & Friend continues at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown, keeping the laughter rolling all month with hilarious, home-grown Island comedy on stage August 5, 6, 13 and 20.

A different special musical guest joins Ledwell each night. The roster of performers this month includes his frequent show partner Mark Haines (Aug 5 and 6), for all who would like a chance to hear selections from their long-running show, Island Summer Review. Special secret guests arrive August 13, and the season closes on August 20 with Two Hours Traffic frontman, Liam Corcoran, bringing his uptempo folk rock.

Tickets are available at trailside.ca or 902-367-3311.

Maggie Estey

All women comedy show at Upstreet Brewing—Aug 14

On August 14, a standup comedy showcase, featuring all women comedians, will be happening at Upstreet Craft Brewing in Charlottetown at 8 pm. The show will be headlined by Maggie Estey.

Maggie Estey has done sets at Hubcap Comedy Fesitival, Halifax Pop Explosion, Shivering Songs and Flourish Festival and has appeared on multiple CBC Radio shows including Definitely Not The Opera and Fredericton’s Information Morning. Her comedy is informed by a bizarre childhood in Sunny Corner, a tiny hamlet in the backwoods of Miramichi, NB, and mainly focuses on what she calls ‘pathetic woman stuff.’

Tickets are available online at tanyanicollecomedy.com

Never Before Scene

A mix of playful and serious at Haviland Club

Never Before Scene, a collaboration by Albert Arsenault and Laurie Murphy, features an ensemble cast of musicians, improv players, and PEI celebrities. The show blends playful improv with serious fiddle performances on Thursday evenings from 8–10 pm until August 29 at the Haviland Club in Charlottetown

The rotating ensemble includes Janet Coughlin Cameron, Margie Carmichael-Scotto, Sue Flower, Patti

Larsen, Adam “Honker” MacDonald, Lucas Panizzi, and guests.

This month’s PEI celebrities who will be interviewed in the improv segment, “Get to Know a PEI Celebrity,” include Kate MacQuarrie, (Aug 1), Nathan Wiley (8), Catherine MacLellan (15), Dr. Ed MacDonald (22), and Rebekah Brown (29).

Tickets are available by e-transfer to lauriemurphy@marram.ca and at marram.ca.

August 28 - August 31

Victoria Park

8:30PM Who's Yer Father? Rated: 14A 8:30PM Barbie Rated: PG-13 8:30PM The Fall Guy Rated: PG-13

Concessions available for sale on-site. Blankets and folding chairs encouraged. For more information, visit charlottetown.ca/cinema

(top, L–R): J Laurie Murphy, Patti Larsen, Julie Savoie, Janet Coughlin Cameron, and Albert Arsenault. (bottom, L–R): Lucas Panizzi, Margie Carmichael-Scotto, Sue Flower, Adam “Honker” MacDonald, and Bridget Driver

Together Again

A night of music, stories and fun in September

(L-R): Bruce Rainnie, Kendra MacGillivray and Kevin “Boomer” Gallant

Together Again, an evening of music stories with Bruce Rainnie, Kendra MacGillivray, and Kevin “Boomer” Gallant, will take place at St Francis of Assisi on September 7 at 7 pm.

Tickets are available for sale after the 4 pm Saturday and 10:30 am Sunday masses, or by calling Karen at 902-393-6286, Alice at 902-218-3767, or Rosalind at 902-393-5035. There is limited seating.

The church is located at 5 Lowther Drive in Cornwall.

DANCING

Downstreet programming

Dance class programming continues at Downstreet Dance this month. Monday classes include Zumba at 5 pm and Free West Coast Swing at 6 pm (at the Victoria Park Pavilion). Tuesday classes are Bellydancing at 6:30 pm and Beginner 1940’s Swing at 7:30 pm. Wednesday classes include Summer Tango Practica at 5:45 pm (select dates). Saturday classes include Belly Dance Fusion at 9 am, Intro to West Coast Swing at 5 pm, West Coast Fundamentals at 5 pm, West Coast Swing Choreography at 6 pm, and West Coast Swing Level 1 at 7 pm. Downstreet Dance is a full non-profit studio offering solo and couples classes for ages 18+. 101 Grafton St, 2nd floor, Charlottetown. downstreetdance.com

Square dances

Square dances will be held every Wednesday at 7:30 pm in August at the Lorne Valley Community Centre. Live entertainment will be provided by Ward, Hailee and Alan Macdonald, and will feature special guests weekly. 922 Lorne Valley Rd, Lorne Valley.

St. Margaret’s Kitchen Party and Square Dance

Join the Chaisson Trio (Kevin Chaisson, Louise Chaisson-MacKinnon and Sheila MacKenzie) at St. Margaret’s Community Hall every Sunday at 7:30 pm this summer for traditional Island fiddling, songs and square dancing. This all ages,

Gospel concert

Featuring Dino Dunsford and The Harmonies

(L-R): Sheila Dunsford, David Moore, Judy Lowe, Rita Watts, Dino Dunsford, Keila Glydon, Brian Knox and Steven Perry

A gospel concert featuring Dino Dunsford and The Harmonies, with special guest Steven Perry, will be held at 7 pm on August 25 at Winsloe United.

Admission is at the door, which opens at 6:30 pm. The church, located at 121 Winsloe Road (Route 223), is air-conditioned and wheelchair accessible. Follow on FB for updates.

authentic Island experience includes a 50/50 draw, homemade lunch, and Northside tea and coffee at intermission. The kitchen parties are a fundraiser for the upkeep of the hall. Admission is cash at the door. 11394 Northside Rd, Souris.

Downstreet Social Dance

This month’s social dance at Downstreet Dance in Charlottetown will be held on August 18 from 8–10 pm. These dances are an opportunity to practice the skills and moves learned in class and to see what else the dance world has to offer. All levels and styles of dance are welcome. downstreetdance.com

Dance studio volunteers

Volunteers are needed to help keep things running smoothly at Downstreet Dance, a full non-profit studio in Charlottetown. Once everyone is signed in, volunteers are welcome to join the classes for free. Volunteer hours can go towards credit hours for different volunteer programs. Learn more at the next volunteer information meeting on September 10 at 5:30 pm. Visit downstreetdance.com to fill out a volunteer form prior to attending the meeting.

Irish Set Dancing

Irish Set Dancing will resume at the Stratford Community School from September 18–November 20. These social dances are danced by four couples in a square to recorded traditional Irish reels, jigs and polkas. All figures will be taught and called. Singles are welcome. Visit @ Irish Set and Ceili Dancers of PEI on FB for details. 50 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford. Info: fredchorne@gmail.com

Review by Norah Pendergast

What a way to make a livin’

Becoming Dolly

The Mack, Charlottetown July 6, 2024

After three summers of sold out shows at St. Peter’s Courthouse theater, Jessica Gallant brings her show, Becoming Dolly to this summer’s Charlottetown Festival.

Dolly Parton’s greatest hits anchor this cabaret show, and Gallant’s own story in show business is recounted parallel to Dolly’s biography. Both are country girls, both are, “diamonds in a rhinestone world,” who had the courage and astonishing talent to embark on the path of professional artist. While Dolly Parton has lived a lifetime on stage, reached icon status and changed the soundscape of music history, Jessica Gallant’s ambition and intuitively mesmerizing stage presence leave the impression that her career will also result in important legacy of accomplishments, despite her humble origins in little Epekwitk (PEI).

The show is widely appealing, and through Gallant’s autobiographical story, it offers visitors and locals an insider perspective on the experiences of a performer in the renowned Charlottetown Festival.

Jessica Gallant grew up in Ten Mile House, with dreams of playing Anne Shirley. Her talent for musical theater was nurtured as a member of the Charlottetown Festival’s Young Company. Before she could complete university, she became the second island-born performer ever cast as the lead in Anne of Green Gables–The Musical™. Jessica’s success continued and she was subsequently cast in major

Youth concert

Fundraiser for annual Harmony House scholarship fund

Harmony House in Hunter River is hosting a fundraising concert on August 20 at 8 pm. The event will feature young musicians from the Raspberry Point Youth Sponsorship and Graduate Mentorship Program, along with some Harmony House artists from Inside American Pie and The 27 Club

The evening will feature Caedda Enright (harp), Emi Smith (guitar and vocals), Luka Hall (fiddle), Garrett Sherwood (drums), with the new young band Ice Cream Social opening the show.

A portion of the ticket sales will fund an annual scholarship that

productions across the country. During the pandemic, when performance work dried up, she became a new mom and wrote Becoming Dolly, which is directed by her husband, Luc Trottier.

Audiences are greeted with a set designed by Shawn Kerwin, which depicts Dolly’s dressing room in which Gallant seamlessly morphs between herself and Dolly, recounting the milestones of their career progression, from unlikely country girls to the pinnacles of performance success on the biggest stages in show business. Fantastic costumes by Karyn MacPhee and wigs designed by Honey Landry are also key visual elements in the delightful spectator experience.

The band is led by musical director Noah Malcolm and includes Mike Gallant on drums, Hannah O’Donnell on Bass and Jordan Taylor on guitar. Dolly’s hits and their anecdotal origins propel audiences through the night full of Appalachian intellect, love, loss, and above all—authenticity.

The success of Becoming Dolly rests largely on Gallant’s unique prowess as a comedic performer and vocalist. Gallant embodies Dolly’s sense of humor and empowered feminine wisdom to keep audiences laughing and feeling inspired with the proof that dreams really do come true. Like Dolly, Jessica Gallant is unique as a brilliant performer, writer and business woman, and she is magnetic to watch.

Becoming Dolly continues at The 2024 Charlottetown Festival with performances at The Mack on select dates until August 24. confederationcentre.com

Harmony House is establishing for a young musician entering a post-secondary music degree program. harmonyhousepei.com (clockwise from top-left): Emi Smith, Caedda Enright, Luka Hall and Garrett Sherwood

Harmony House

Three series feature their music and their stories

Ladies of the Canyon

Ladies of the Canyon will open later this month, and performances will run at 8 pm on select dates from August 28—September 28.

Joni Mitchell, Mama Cass, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Carole King, The Eagles—these are just a handful of the extraordinary songwriters who took up residence in the legendary neighbourhood of Laurel Canyon in California. Located just outside Los Angeles, this artist commune created a musical alchemy that birthed some of the greatest songs and artists of the 20th century.

In its world premiere, Alicia Toner and Mike Ross will create one of Harmony House’s signature docu-concerts, taking audiences on a deep dive into the music of this unique time and place.

Four of Atlantic Canada’s most electric voices—Brielle Ansems, Joce Reyome, Alicia Toner and Keelin Wedge—will tell the story of this time in music history and celebrate the songs that came out of Laurel Canyon.

The 27 Club

Performances of The 27 Club continue on select dates until August 22.

The 27 Club investigates one of the strangest mysteries in all of rock and roll: why did so many artists of the 20th century die at age 27?

Brielle Ansems, Keziah Collie, Carlie Howell, Max Keenlyside, Mike Ross and Kirk White celebrate the music of gone-too-soon icons and try to get to the bottom of this enduring mystery.

Celebrating Stan Rogers

A Matter of Heart at Florence Simmons Performance Hall

Stan Rogers: A Matter of Heart continues at Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlotteotwn this month with evening performances at 7:30 pm on August 2, 10, 17, 20, and 22, and matinees at 1 pm on August 7 and 15.

From “Barrett’s Privateers” to “Forty-Five Years,” Stan Rogers painted a vivid musical landscape of the people and places in Canada and the stories they had to tell.

The Leonard Cohen Songbook

The Leonard Cohen Songbook ing one of Canada’s most treasured songwriters, is on stage with perfor mances running on select dates until September 12.

Joining Mike Ross on stage are Amanda Jackson and Brandon Howard Roy, along with PEI poet laureate Tanya Davis, Carlie Howell, and Garrett Sherwood. In Harmony House’s unique interpretive style, they will be looking at the Cohen catalogue from his early days in Greece all the way until his last years, in an experi ence that will bring the soul of Leonard Cohen alive.

Tickets can be purchased at har monyhousepei.com or by calling 1-888-311-9090.

Stan Rogers: A Matter of Heart theatrical celebration of the musical legacy of the Canadian singer and songwriter. Directed by Wade Lynch with music by Don Fraser, the produc tion stars Beth Rogers, James Medeiros, Kade McCloud, and Matt Kinney. stanrogersmoh.com

WED, AUG 28

WED, AUG 14

An evening with

An evening with RANDY J. MARTIN

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

(clockwise from top-left): Ladies of the Canyon features Alicia Toner, Brielle Ansems, Keelin Wedge and Joce Reyome

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

…continued from page B10

Aug 9 | 7:30 pm

Jackson/Wilson Duo

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 9 | 8 pm

Nudie & Willie

Victoria Playhouse, Victoria-by-the-Sea

Aug 9 | 8 pm

Cory Gallant

Village Musical Acadien, Abram-Village

Aug 9 | 8 pm

Lady Soul

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 9–11

Cloggeroo - The Island Folk Festival

Ft. Jake Clemons, The Sadies, Monkeyjunk, Dave Sampson, DeeDee Austin, Christine Tassan et Les Imposteures, Old Man Luedecke, Jah’Mila, The Hypochondriacs, Steve Somers, Tunes & Tall Tales, The Converts, Theresa Malenfant and The Instigators, Amanda Jackson & Route 225, DJ VClay, and DJ DMayne Event. (cloggeroo.com) Georgetown waterfront, Three Rivers.

Aug 10 | 7:30 pm

An Evening with Elvis:

Celebrating The King’s Life Starring Jonah Anderson, Jennifer Carson and Marylynn Côté. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Aug 10 | 7:30 pm

Jing Xia

With Mark Haines. Souris Show Hall, Souris

Aug 10 | 8 pm

Joey, Jamie & Kurk

Stompin’ Tom Festival Series. Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond

Aug 10 | 8 pm

The Hounds

Tribute to Tyler Childers. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 11 | 3 pm

Sechile Sedare

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 11 | 7 pm

Bronko; Anica; Dahlia Ave

Mont-Carmel Parish Hall, Mont-Carmel

Aug 11 | 7:30 pm

Canadian Greats

Ft. Lawrence Maxwell, Ava & Lily and Clever Hopes. Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

Aug 11 | 7:30 pm

Richard Wood

Bedeque Loyalist Heritage Festival. Kanata Club, Kinkora

Aug 11 | 7:30 pm

Teresa Doyle and guests

Rock Barra Retreat, Souris

Aug 12 | 8 pm

The Barrel Boys

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 13 | 8 pm

Mike & Karen Penton

Seaside Musical Revival hosted by Barry O’Brien & Brent Chaisson. Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 14 | 7:30 pm

Island Proud with Tiffany Liu

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 14 | 8 pm

Maggie Estey

Standup comedy showcase featuring all women comedians. Upstreet Craft Brewing, Charlottetown

Aug 14 | 8 pm

The Ellis Family Band & Fiddlers’ Sons

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Aug 15 | 7:30 pm

Island At Heart Souris Show Hall, Souris

Aug 15 | 7 pm

Route 225

The Pourhouse, Charlottotown

Aug 15 | 8 pm

The Grapes of Wrath

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 15 | 8 pm

After The Chorus Line

The Guild, Charlottetown

Aug 15 | 8 pm

Island Jazz Greatest Hits and Farwell to Jordan Taylor

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Aug 16 | 7:30 pm

Les Productions

Mosaiculture: Mi’gmafrica

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 16 | 7:30 pm

The Linda Ronstadt Tribute Show

Ft. Karen Coughlin. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Aug 16 | 8 pm

Take The Mic

Live Band Karaoke. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 16 | 8 pm

Jonny Ray Arsenault

Village Musical Acadien, Abram-Village

Aug 17 | 7:30 pm

The Umbrella Collective

With Joce Reyome. Souris Show Hall, Souris

Aug 17 | 7:30 pm

Side Hustle Improv The Guild, Charlottetown

Aug 17 | 7:30 pm

Thane Dunn’s New Remembering Elvis Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Aug 17 | 8 pm

Peggy Clinton & Johnny Ross

Stompin’ Tom Festival Series. Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond

Aug 17 | 8 pm

Basia Bulat

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 17 | 8 pm

Sommo Presents: Steven Page

With Kristen Martell. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Aug 18 | 2 pm

Dolly Parton Tribute

Ft. Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron. Trinity United, Summerside

Aug 18 | 3 pm

Pianist Echo Lau Solo recital. Summerside Presbyterian, Summerside

…continued on page B18

Honouring Roy MacCaull

Music and storytelling celebrate a lifetime of achievements

Honouring Roy MacCaull, an evening of music and storytelling celebrating the lifetime achievements of the late Roy MacCaull, will be held at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on August 23 at 7:30 pm.

Roy could captivate any audience with his storytelling and musical talents. This event will honour his achievements with memories, stories, and songs, featuring artists who have shared the stage with him, including Carroll Baker, Joyce Seamone, Marcella Richard, Larry Campbell, Kim Tuplin, Harold Noye, Steve Perry, Bobby MacLean, Jolee Patkai, and Whitecap Drive (Harold and Marnie Noye, Tuplin, and Troy MacArthur).

Born in Bedeque, PEI, in 1937, Roy began singing at 15. He married his sweetheart, Brenda, in 1955, and they moved to Toronto in 1957, where he joined The Blue Diamonds and launched a successful solo career, including eight singles on the RPM and a top 10 hit, “Ballad of the Hotel Waitress.” Roy was also a successful songwriter. His song “Shores of PEI” was recorded by George Hamilton IV and commended by Queen Elizabeth II. In 1996, Roy and Brenda returned

to PEI, where he hosted the PEI Community Showcase on Cable 10 and continued his music career. In 2018, Music PEI honoured him with the Lifetime Achievement in Music Award, and in 2022, he received the John Hunter Duvar Award from the West Prince Arts Council.

Roy continued playing, writing, and recording until his passing in November 2023.

harbourfronttheatre.com

Barachois Inn

Soirées for 150th anniversary of L.M. Montgomery

On select Sunday afternoons this summer, the historic Barachois Inn in Rustico will host special events commemorating the 150th anniversary of L.M. Montgomery, featuring a re-enactment of a social soirée similar to those described in Montgomery’s books. Soprano Olivia Barnes and tenor Sébastien Comtois will team up with pianist Leo Marchildon to perform a program of music and poetry from the time of the famed author, as well as selections from the various musicals inspired by her immortal Anne of Green Gables. A high tea will follow. Performances take place at 2:30 pm on August 25 and September 1. Tickets may be purchased directly at the Inn or by emailing sleep@ barachoisinn.com.

Roy MacCaull

SUBMITTED

Leo Marchildon, Olivia Barnes and Sébastien Comtois will perform poetry and music

Chamber music

Kirk Summer Recital Series features two concerts

The Kirk Summer Recital Series will feature two chamber music recitals this month. Concerts begin at 12:10 pm.

On August 8, bass-baritone Tanner Burns, a recent UPEI music graduate who studied with Stephen Bouey and Sung Ha Shin Bouey, will present a program of classical vocal repertoire, musical theatre selections, and popular songs such as “Fly Me to the Moon.” He will be accompanied by Frances McBurnie, the Kirk’s Music Director, on piano.

studied with Frances McBurnie and Dr. Frances Gray at UPEI, has continued her studies since graduation.

Perk up, Pianist!

Part storytelling, part recital at Victoria Playhouse—Sept 1

Often referred to as the next Victor Borge, Sarah Hagen has transformed her award-winning role as a concert pianist into stand-up comedy (or rather, sit-down comedy) with Perk Up, Pianist! at Victoria Playhouse on September 1 from 2–3 pm.

On August 22, pianist Echo Lau will perform a solo piano program with works by Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, Debussy, and Scriabin. Echo, who

Bach’s Long Walk

Music and storytelling at Bonshaw Hall—Aug 8

JS Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow—an evening of live music and storytelling—will be held at the Bonshaw Hall on August 8 at 7:30 pm.

Admission is free, but donations to the Kirk’s Choral Scholarships, which support four voice students in the choral program, are appreciated.

The Kirk of St. James is located at 35 Fitzroy Street, Charlottetown.

At age twenty, in his first job as an organist, still barely beginning his life as a composer, the young JS Bach got into such trouble that the only thing he could do was to walk away. JS Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow takes the audience along on that trip: a 400 km odyssey to a glittering northern port city with street fights, big business, the father figure he didn’t know he needed, and, quite possibly, love.

With glorious music—both familiar and gripping—from harpist Lori Gemmell, pianist and composer Andy Creeggan, violinists and singers Karen Graves and Kate Bevan-Baker, and storyteller Tom Allen, JS Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow brings that troubled young man in from the cold.

Tickets are available at the door or online at Eventbrite.

Pairing anecdotes from the road with some of her favourite pieces by Chopin, Debussy and Liszt, Hagen takes audiences deep inside the world of a classical musician as she shares her earnest efforts to keep her spirits up in the midst of troublesome times.

Part storytelling and part recital, Perk Up, Pianist! has been described

of the best hours I’ve ever spent at the Fringe”—The Coast (Halifax).

Pipe organ concerts

Weekly series at St. Simon & St. Jude and St. Dunstan’s

St. Dunstan’s Basilica and St. Simon & St. Jude will once again be filled with the sounds of the pipe organ as the churches cohost their summer concert series this month.

Jason Chen will open the series on August 6 and 7 with his first full-length recital, featuring music by Bach, Healy Willan and Widor. A student of Leo Marchildon, this concert is a send-off before Chen begins his organ performance study at Mount Allison University this fall.

On August 13 and 14, Tignish-born soprano Robyn Perry will sing alongside Leo Marchildon in a program centred on the history and impact of the Angelus Church Bells with works by Louis Vierne and other poets and composers who have been inspired by the sequence of the Angelus.

place on Tuesday evenings at 7 pm at St. Simon & St. Jude in Tignish, and again on Wednesday afternoons at 1 pm at St. Dunstan’s Basilica in Charlottetown.

Admission is by donation.

Ottawa baritone Luc Lalonde will be singing selections from Ralph Vaughan William’s “Songs of Travel” and Gustav Holst’s “Vedic Hymns,” accompanied by Marchildon with special arrangements for the organ on August 20 and 21.

Solo piano recital at Summerside Presbyterian—Aug 18

Pianist Echo Lau will perform a solo recital of classical music by Beethoven, Chopin, Scriabin, Liszt, and others, on August 18 at Summerside Presbyterian.

The final concerts on August 26 and 27 will welcome visiting organist Devon Turner from Oklahoma who is a specialist in early organ music and who will perform music ranging from Henry Purcell to César Franck.

The hour-long concerts take

The recital will begin at 3 pm. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

(corners, clockwise from top-left): Jason Chen, Robyn Perry, Devon Turner and Luc Lalonde; (centre): Leo Marchildon

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Tanner Burns (left) and Echo Lau

Tom Allen

Witty pianist Sarah Hagen

Under the Spire

Music Festival series at Historic St. Mary’s

Under The Spire showcases traditional, pop, classical, jazz, country, and world music concerts at Historic St. Mary’s.

Feature concerts continue in August with: Vivaldi’s Four Season’s ft. A Baroque Chamber Orchestra (Aug 2); Bagels & Bach with Sarah Hagen (4); Trad Kitchen Party with Rum Ragged (8); Mi’gmafrica by Les Productions Mosaiculture (16); Acadian Ceilidh (free) (17); Lara Deutsch & Adam Cicchillitti (18); Vishtèn Connexions (23); Duo CBJ & MH (25); and Morgan Toney (30).

Also part of the festival lineup, Under the Spire’s Island Proud Series, inspired by the theme “Everlasting,” features a lineup of 45-minute concerts that showcase songwriting, cultural celebrations, food and music pairings, and chamber repertoire. A reception with the artist will follow each show. Performers include Alicia Toner (Aug 7), Tiffany Liu (14), Shane Pendergast (21), and Emilea May (28). Next month,

Sundown: The Songs of Gordon Lightfoot will be on stage September 6 and 7.

For more details, tickets, artist biographies and programming, visit underthespire.ca or call 902-836-3733.

Terry Kelly

In concert—Aug 22

Elizabeth’s in Springfield will host singer, music writer, and speaker Terry Kelly at a concert being held at 7 pm on August 22.

Terry Kelly has travelled extensively in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, receiving accolades for touching hearts and motivating people to live life to the fullest. His example of overcoming challenges will inspire the audience. Attendees are sure to enjoy his songs and stories in a peaceful and beautiful setting.

The church is located at 22728 Route 2 in Springfield.

Richard Wood

Community concert at Loyalist Festival—Aug 11

As part of the Bedeque Area Historical Museum’s Loyalist Festival activities, Richard Wood, world famous fiddler, will be playing a community concert at 7:30 pm on August 11.

Ticket proceeds will go towards the museum’s mission to protect the history and culture of rural PEI. For more details and to purchase a ticket, call 902-887-3009, email bedequemuseum@gmail.com or bahsmuseum@hotmail.com, or visit the Bedeque Museum in person at 950 Callbeck Street, Bedeque.

Laura Deutsch & Adam Cicchillitti (above) and Tiffany Liu

Presented by Caisse populaire

JP LeBlanc (NB)

Ivan & Vivian Hicks (NB)

Brad Milligan & Brooke MacArthur

Dahlia Ave. (NB) Bronko (QC) Anica (NB)

Home Hardware Building Centre & Leon’s Summerside

Scott & Gerald Delhunty (with Marc Babin) (NB)

Dueling Pianos (with Craig Fair & Ben Aitken)

Luka Hall (with Shane Pendergast & Michael Pendergast)

Salt Water Dollies

Daniel Goguen & Daniel Léger (NB)

Peter Arsenault, Albert Arsenault & Helen Bergeron

St.

LORNE MILLER

Richard Wood

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

…continued from page B14

Aug 18 | 3 pm

Lara Deutsch & Adam Cicchillitti

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 18 | 7 pm

Scott & Gerald Delhunty with Marc Babin; Dueling Pianos with Craig Fair & Ben Aitken; Luka Hall with Shane & Michael Pendergast Mont-Carmel Parish Hall, Mont-Carmel

Aug 18 | 7 pm

Whitney Rose sings Linda Ronstadt

Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown

Aug 18 | 7:30 pm

Lucy Farrell

Rock Barra Retreat, Souris

Aug 20 | 8 pm

Fundraising concert

Ft Caedda Enright, Emi Smith, Luka Hall, Garrett Sherwood. Ice Cream Social (band) will open. Harmony House, Hunter River

Aug 20 | 8 pm

Rick Sparkes + The Enablers Trio

Seaside Musical Revival hosted by Barry O’Brien & Brent Chaisson. Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 21 | 7:30 pm

Island Proud with Shane Pendergast

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 22 | 12:10 pm

Echo Lau, piano

Kirk Recital Series. Kirk of St. James, Charlottetown

Aug 22 | 7 pm

Terry Kelly

St. Elizabeth Church, Springfield

Aug 22 | 7:30 pm

Catherine MacLellan

With Tiffany Liu. Souris Show Hall, Souris

Aug 22 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Mark Haines Trio

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Aug 23 | 7:30 pm

Vishtèn Connexions

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 23 | 7:30 pm

Honouring Roy MacCaull

Ft. Carroll Baker, Joyce Seamone and guests. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Aug 23 | 8 pm

Rachel Davis & Darren

McMullen

Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 23 | 7:30 pm

Got Blues

With special guest Shrimp Daddy. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Aug 23 | 8 pm

Rachel Davis & Darren

McMullen

Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 23 | 8 pm

Peggy Clinton

Village Musical Acadien, Abram-Village

Aug 23–24 | 8 pm

After Hours Band

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 24 | 7:30 pm

Shane Pendergast

Souris Show Hall, Souris

Aug 24 | 7:30 pm

Mid-Summer Night’s Swing

Ft. Mark Haines & The Dan Rowswell Orchestra, with Joey Esker. Courthouse Theatre, St. Peter’s

Aug 24 | 8 pm

Lawrence Maxwell

Stompin’ Tom Festival Series. Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond

Aug 25 | 1 pm

Dr. John DeMarsh Memorial Concert

Charlottetown Farmers’ Market, Charlottetown

Aug 25 | 2:30 pm

L.M. Montgomery Social Soirée

Ft. Olivia Barnes & Sébastien Comtois with Leo Marchildon. Barachois Inn, Rustico

Aug 25 | 3 pm

Duo CBJ & MH

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 25 | 7 pm

Daniel Goguen & Daniel Léger; Salt Water Dollies; Peter Arsenault, Albert Arsenault & Helen Bergeron

Mont-Carmel Parish Hall, Mont-Carmel

Aug 25 | 7 pm

A Gospel Concert

Ft. Dino Dunsford and The Harmonies with special guest Steven Perry. Winsloe United, Winsloe

Aug 25 | 7:30 pm

The Brill Building: 60s Pop Hits

Ft. Joce Reyome, Ben Aitken and Brielle Ansems. Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

Aug 25 | 8 pm

The Darvel

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 27 | 8 pm

Julie & Danny Seaside Musical Revival hosted by Barry O’Brien & Brent Chaisson. Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 28 | 7:30 pm

Island Proud with Emilea May Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 28 | 8 pm

Sommo Presents: Wintersleep PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Aug 28, 29 | 7:30 pm

Randy J. Martin

Aug 28: Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Aug 29: Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Aug 28–29 | 8 pm

Matt Mays

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Aug 29 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Lucia Dostal Quartet

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Aug 29–31 | 2 pm (30/31)/7 pm

The Marvelous Wonderettes The Mack, Charlottetown

Aug 29–31 | 8 pm

Raised Rowdy Song Writers Festival

Stompin’ Tom Festival Series. Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond

…continued on page B22

Creating Extraordinary Outdoor Spaces

Randy J. Martin

In concert in Summerside and Georgetown

Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside will welcome Island country artist Randy J. Martin on August 28 at 7:30 pm. He will be accompanied by a seven-piece band led by world-class fiddler Tyler Vollrath and supported by singer-songwriter Alyssa Harper. Martin will also perform at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on August 29 at 7:30 pm.

Martin’s career began in the early 90s after winning several local and regional talent competitions, including Q-93 Star Search, Bud Country Talent Search, and Star Track 93.

In 2001, Martin toured Canada as the opening act for his musical hero, Stompin’ Tom Connors, performing before audiences of up to 45,000. He released three solo albums from 1994 to 1999, which produced eight Top 40 Canadian hits, two Top 20 hits, and four CMT music videos. His accolades include eight music industry award nominations, four AIRA nominations in Nashville, International Best New Male Artist, Big Country Award for Male Artist of the Year (1998), ECMA for Male Artist of the Year (2000), and Album of the Year at the Canadian Indies (2001). In 2002, he moved to Alberta, formed the band Sweet Tequila, and recorded

three more albums.

Martin has shared the stage with acts such as The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, George Canyon, Reba McEntire, and Aaron Pritchett. He continues to write and has penned hits with artists including Thomas Wade, Jo Hikk, Tristan Horncastle, Mike Gouchi, and Sweet Tequila. harbourfronttheatre.com kingsplayhouse.com

Whitney

Original music and Linda Ronstadt classics—Aug 18

Whitney Rose sings Linda Ronstadt at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown on August 18. Doors open at 6 pm. Showtime is 7–9 pm.

Whitney Rose, celebrated for her unique blend of classic country and vintage pop, has graced stages worldwide with her musical prowess. Acclaimed by esteemed publications such as Rolling Stone and the New York Times, she has captivated audiences and shared stages alongside artists like Emmylou Harris, The Mavericks, Dwight Yoakam, Jason Isbell, and Midland. Recognized as a leading voice in Americana music, Rose has crafted six original albums since 2012.

Join Rose and her band as they deliver a rousing ride through her original compositions, alongside beloved classics by Linda Ronstadt.

Randy J. Martin

Rose

Whitney Rose

Mid-Summer Nights Swing

St. Peter’s Courthouse Theatre—Aug 24

Night’s

on August 24 at 7:30 pm.

Mark Haines and The Dan Rowswell Orchestra, featuring Joey Esker, will lead the audience on a musical travelogue through the Swing Era of the 1940’s. Take a trip through smoky matinees, elegant dinner clubs, and midnight speakeasies to a soundtrack of hits featuring Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and Bobby Darin. The piano will be rockin’, the sax will be wailing, and the drums a-thumpin’.

MORE MUSIC

Bilingual Children’s Music in the Park

Madame Abbey from The Nest will join Chances Family Centre for their Park Days at Victoria Park on Thursdays to perform an interactive bilingual music show, sponsored by Canadian Parents for French. The show runs from 11–11:45 am each week, but the fun is from 10 am–1 pm. These events are weather permitting. There is no cost but pre-registration is encouraged at shorturl.at/mKsWH.

Informal jam session

The next jam session for adults at the Summerside Rotary Library will be held on August 12 at 6:30 pm. Bring an instrument or borrow one from the library and join other musicians for an informal evening of playing music. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Cloggeroo Music Festival

Three day celebration in Three Rivers—Aug 9 to 11

The 11th edition of the Cloggeroo Music Festival promises a weekend of musical talent and fun in Three Rivers, PEI, from August 9 to 11. Catering to all ages and tastes, the event offers an eclectic mix of performances and activities.

The festival opens at West Street Park in Georgetown on Friday with Deedee Austin, Christine Tassan et les Imposteures, The Sadies, and Dave Sampson.

Saturday afternoon features a pay-what-you-can admission with performances by Steve Somers, Old Man Luedecke, and Tunes & Tall Tales. Families can enjoy a dedicated kids’ zone, ensuring fun for all ages.

Saturday evening features The Converts, Jah’mila, Jake Clemons Band, and The Hypochondriacs.

On Sunday afternoon, the festival continues at the Boggeroo Blues Tent at Bogside Brewing in Montague, featuring Amanda Jackson & Route 225, Theresa Malenfant and the Instigators, and MonkeyJunk.

Beyond the music, festival-goers can explore vendor stalls offering food, festival merchandise, and local

brews, and marvel at live sand sculpting by “Mediocre Abe” Waterman. Camping ticket holders gain exclusive access to the Upstreet Silent Disco, with DMayne Event on Friday and DJ VClay on Saturday. For added convenience, the festival provides free shuttles for ticket holders. cloggeroo.com

Stompin’ Tom Festival

Music series continues into September

The Stompin’ Tom Festival continues at the Stompin’ Tom Centre in Skinner’s Pond.

The Stompin’ Tom Festival Series runs until September 28, with shows starting at 8 pm. The lineup of performers this month includes Gordie MacKeeman & His Rhythm Boys (August 3), Joey, Jamie & Kurk (10), Peggy Clinton & Johnny Ross (17), and Lawrence Maxwell (24). The summer music series continues next month with Lennie Gallant (September 7), Kim Albert & Faces (14), Michael Myers (21), and Joey, Jamie & Wade (28).

The Stompin’ Tom Festival also features a dinner theatre on Tuesdays and Thursdays through August, as well as daily Shucked-In events at 2 pm.

The Raised Rowdy Song Writers Festival, hosted by Ben Chase, will feature ten Nashville songwriters recreating the Nashville song room

experience from August 29–31 at 8 pm. Tickets are available via phone at 902-882-3214 and online at stompintomfest.com. The Centre is located at 14024 Rte 14, Skinner’s Pond.

LISA MACINTOSH

YVONNE STANLEY MAT DUNLAP

Jake Clemons (above), Old Man Luedecke (left) and Jah’Mila

The St. Peter’s Courthouse Theatre will host a Mid-Summer

Swing

Mark Haines

Gordie MacKeeman & His Rhythm Boys

PEI RECORDINGS

Neon Nights

BraedenV

Nearly a year since his last official release, BraedenV returns to the stage for the live debut of his brand new record, Neon Nights. The Music PEI Award-nominated singer and rapper will release his latest album on August 10 at Baba’s Lounge in Charlottetown beginning at 10 pm.

ALBUMS SINGLES

The Neon Nights live event will feature performances from the Music PEI Award-nominated rap duo, Adjust The Facts, and ECMA Award-nominee, Eric Broadbent. Special guests include DupoN, Jake Mercer and Bo Dean. DJ AllyCat will be scratching and spinning tunes on the turntables. BraedenV will take the stage at midnight, previewing select new tracks from Neon Nights. He promises special guest appearances, merch giveaways, free glowsticks, drink prizes, photoshoot opportunities and a meet and greet after the show. The event will be livestreamed via BraedenV’s TikTok. Follow @braedenva on IG for updates.

The Third Set

Mike Stratton

Musician and songwriter Mike Stratton recently released his first LP, The Third Set, in July.

The 12 songs in the collection have been written and recorded by Stratton over the last several years at his home studio, with the tracks mastered for vinyl by Colin Buchanan. The Third Set features pop/rock songs about life, beaches, roads, record collecting, songwriting, and late nights playing in bands.

Stratton has written songs and performed on PEI for many years. He is influenced by the catchy melodies and harmonies of the The Beatles and

Brian Wilson. Some of the songs on the LP have already been featured on CBC Radio’s Mainstreet.

This is a vinyl-only release available at Back Alley Music in Charlottetown or by email at mikestratton@eastlink. ca. The songs can be previewed on YouTube under “Mike Stratton The Third Set Full Album.”

“Marrying Me” KINLEY

KINLEY released her new single “Marrying Me” on July 19. The song was produced by Corey LeRue.

“Where I live I hear church bells everyday and it got me thinking about marriage and all the weddings I have played for and all the people I know who are married,” shares KINLEY. “I never imagined the reality of marriage past the glamour. That’s when I came up with the chorus of the song. My reality hasn’t included marriage and it may or may not be in the cards but it is no longer an expectation because my reality is a life filled with love and rich experience. I’m marrying me.”

Corey LeRue is a multi-platinum, JUNO Award-winning producer, songwriter, remixer and engineer. In May 2024, at the East Coast Music Awards in Charlottetown, PEI, KINLEY met

LeRue in the hallway just after he won for Producer of the Year. As a fan of him and his work with Neon Dreams, she slipped her latest album in his bag as he was leaving to go back home. Later that night she got a nice message from LeRue asking if she had any demos she would like him to work on. The next day she sent him “Marrying Me,” and within a week, LeRue had produced, mixed, and mastered it, preparing it for release.

linktr.ee/kinleymusic

“The

Flowers of Our Nature” Luka Hall

Luka Hall’s latest release, “The Flowers of Our Nature,” is now available on all major streaming platforms.

Hall, a prodigious fiddle-playing virtuoso from PEI, continues to build momentum as a singer-songwriter following his first self-penned single, “When I Saw You,” released as part of Music PEI’s Golden Ticket Program.

“The Flowers of Our Nature” was recorded at SpaceCamp Productions and features Hall on vocals, acoustic guitar, and violin, with Jake Charron (producer) on mandolin and electric guitar, and Lucy Farrell providing harmony vocals. The song was mixed by Jake Charron and Donny Richard, and mastered by John McLaggan (Parachute Mastering). The single artwork is by Aidan Searle.

JULY 31

AUGUST 7

AUGUST 14

AUGUST 21

AUGUST 28

AARON COMEAU

ALICIA TONER

TIFFANY LIU

SHANE PENDERGAST

EMILEA MACLELLAN

Presented by

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

…continued from page B22

Aug 29–Sept 1

Evangeline Area Agricultural Exhibition & Acadian Festival (www.expositionfestival.ca) Exhibition Grounds and Evangeline Recreation Centre, Abram-Village.

Aug 29–Sept 1

Evangeline Area Agricultural Exhibition & Acadian Festival

Musical performers include Nick Arsenault, Samantha Arsenault, Debbie RousselleMontgomery, Rémi Arsenault, Mama et les Boys, Réveil , Gadelle, and more. (expositionfestival.ca) Abram-Village

Aug 30 | 7:30 pm

Morgan Toney

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Aug 30 | 8 pm

JJ & Tim Chaisson & Jake

Charon

Fiddling Fisherman Lookout, Souris

Aug 31 | 7:30 pm

Fiddlers’ Sons

Souris Show Hall, Souris

Aug 31 | 8 pm

Absolute Losers

With Tyler Messick. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

until Sept 21 | select dates

Jersey Boys

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

Sept 1 | 2 pm

Sarah Hagen: Perk Up, Pianist!

Victoria Playhouse, Victoria-by-the-Sea

Sept 1 | 2:30 pm

L.M. Montgomery Social Soirée

Ft. Olivia Barnes, soprano & Sébastien Comtois, tenor with Leo Marchildon, piano. Barachois Inn, Rustico

Sept 4, 5, 13, 14, 18–21, 25–28 | 8 pm

Ladies of the Canyon

Ft. Brielle Ansems, Joce Reyome, Alicia Toner and Keelin Wedge. Harmony House, Hunter River

Sept 5 | 7:30 pm

Lennie Gallant

Souris Show Hall, Souris

Sept 5 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Ceili Gallant Quartet

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Sept 6–7 | 7:30 pm

Sundown: The songs of Gordon Lightfoot

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Sept 6–7 | 8 pm

Nolan Compton

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Sept 6, 7, 11, 12 | 8 pm

The Leonard Cohen Songbook

Feat Mike Ross, Amanda Jackson*/Keziah Collie*, Brandon Howard Roy, Tanya Davis, Carlie Howell and Garrett Sherwood. Harmony House, Hunter River

Sept 7 | 7:30 pm

Inn Echo

Souris Show Hall, Souris

Sept 7 | 7 pm

Together Again

Ft. Bruce Rainnie, Kendra MacGillivray, and Kevin “Boomer” Gallant. St. Francis of Assisi, Cornwall

Sept 7 | 8 pm

Lennie Gallant

Stompin’ Tom Festival Series. Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond

Sept 8 | 2 pm

Kids’ Keilidh

With Lucy Farrell and friends. Bonshaw Hall, Bonshaw

Sept 12 | 7 pm

Route 225

The Pourhouse, Charlottotown

Sept 12 | 8 pm

HELP! The Beatles Tribute

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Sept 12 | 8 pm

Island Jazz Quartet

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Aug 23 | 7:30 pm

Richard Wood

Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Sept 13 | 8 pm

Garrett Mason

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Sept 13–14

Sommo Festival

Ft. Noah Kahan, Greta Van Fleet, Maren Morris, The Beaches, Half Moon Run, Adam Baldwin, Goldie Boutilier, Dee Holt, Elijah Woods, Tobi, Zach Seabaugh, Lily Fitts, Shaela Miller, Absolute Losers, Talk, Danko Jones, Terra Lightfoot, Fairgale, Jonah Kagen, BabyJake, Lolo, Maggie Andrew, Andre Pettipas and the Giants and Norter. (sommofest.com) Cavendish Beach Festival Grounds, Cavendish

Sept 14 | 8 pm

Kim Albert & Faces

Stompin’ Tom Festival Series. Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond

Sept 15 | 7:30 pm

Souris Songs

Songwriters circle ft. Valmy, Mathias Kom, Carlie Howell and host Nick Doneff. Souris Show Hall, Souris

Sept 15 | 3 pm

David Potvin, piano

Under the Spire. Historic St. Mary’s, Indian River

Sept 18–21

70 Mile Yard Sale

The Mack, Charlottetown

Sept 19 | 7:30 pm

The Australian Pink Floyd Show

Credit Union Place, Summerside

Sept 19 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Groove Company

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Sept 20 | 7:30 pm

Small of My Heart

Songwriters Circle

Ft. Catherine MacLellan, Heather Rankin and Lisa MacIsaac. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Sept 20–21 | 8 pm

Gypsy

Tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Sept 21 | 7:30 pm

K Trevor Wilson and Friends

With Dan Hendricken and Clare Belford. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Dr. Demarsh memorial

Concert at Charlottetown Farmers’ Market—Aug 25

A memorial concert for Dr. John DeMarsh will be held at the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market on August 25 from 1–3 pm.

All are welcome to join in an afternoon of reminiscing and music for the remembrance of Dr. DeMarsh, a wellloved doctor and osteopath in rural PEI for over forty 40 years. The market is located at 100 Belvedere Ave in Charlottetown.

With Lucy Farrell at Bonshaw Hall in Septmeber

The Bonshaw Hall will host its first Kids’ Keilidh, a nifty fun program led by Lucy Farrell and friends, on September 8 at 2 pm.

Lucy is an award-winning singer and musician from the UK. With a tenor guitar, viola, fiddle, and a Cranky Box, Lucy will facilitate a wondrous story and song time for children (and adults) of all ages.

Everyone is welcome. Admission is by donation in support of the Hall. Free admission for children under 12.

Dr. John DeMarsh

Lucy Farrell

Music at Trailside

A selection of upcoming live performances in Charlottetown

A Kind of Magic: A Night of Queen

August 1–4

After three sold-out runs, A Kind of Magic: A Night of Queen returns to Trailside Music Hall this month with performances August 1–4 at 8 pm.

This electrifying night celebrating Queen features a group of 11 local artists, and stars Brandon Howard Roy, Joce Reyome, Josée Boudreau and Craig Fair.

The theatrical concert experience promises to have audience members on their feet, appreciating Queen music in a whole new light.

Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards

August 8

Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards will be on stage at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on August 8 at 8 pm.

Expanding on the boundaries of what an indie-folk band can be, Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards take their extensive string music background, add their knowledge of folk and roots music, and incorporate an edgy pop sensibility to create their latest album, Bitter Better. A lesson in all the ways string instruments can be played—bowed, plucked, percussively —the album showcases Cortese and multi-instrumentalist producer Sam Kassirer (Lula Wiles, Lake Street Dive) striving to capture the most adventurous approach to each moment. The result is an album that incorporates dance-worthy foundational grooves, synth, and loops to push the boundaries of the genre.

The Barrel Boys

August 12

The Barrel Boys are coming to Charlottetown’s Trailside Music Hall on August 12.

A bluegrass powerhouse featuring rich vocal harmonies, killer picking,

and a fun-loving, down-to-earth stage presence, The Barrel Boys are a unique staple of Canadian roots music.

Informed by the deep traditions of bluegrass, country, old-time, and Americana, The Boys have crafted their own unmistakable sound into an exuberant and deeply soulful musical experience.

The Grapes of Wrath

August 15

Trailside Music Hall will welcome The Grapes of Wrath to their stage on August 15 at 8 pm.

Any fan of Canadian music from the later 80s and early 90s is likely familiar with the JUNO Awardnominated and multi-platinum-selling band, The Grapes of Wrath. Their 60s-inspired pop-rock was a constant on radio and MuchMusic, with hit singles such as “All The Things I Wasn’t,” “I Am Here,” “Peace Of Mind,” “You May Be Right,” “What Was Going Through My Head,” “Backward Town,” and more.

Basia Bulat

August 17

a distinctive voice and artistry that pulls as much from R&B and soul as it does from freak folk. Her talent has also been recognized at scale: her songs have been adapted for major performances with symphony orchestras, and she has been invited to perform at prestigious tributes to Leonard Cohen, Daniel Lanois, and The Band.

Since releasing her debut in 2007, she has shared a stage with artists including The National, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Daniel Lanois, St Vincent, Sufjan Stevens, and Destroyer, and collaborated as a songwriter with artists across many genres, including US Girls and Jeremy Dutcher. In addition to her powerhouse voice, Bulat is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, recording and performing on electricguitar, piano, autoharp, ukulele, bass and charango.

Matt Mays

August 28 & 29

Matt Mays returns to the stage at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown this month with shows at 8 pm on August 28 and 29.

Since departing seminal alt-country collective The Guthries in 2002, Matt Mays has alternated between solo projects (Matt Mays (2002), When the Angels Make Contact (2006)) and band projects (Matt Mays & El Torpedo (2005) and Terminal Romance (2008)).

Following the dissolution of Matt Mays & El Torpedo in 2009, Mays released Coyote (2012) to much acclaim, including a JUNO Award win for Rock Album of the Year. In 2017, Mays released Once Upon a Hell of a Time, to be followed a year later by the album’s ‘woody’ companion, Twice Upon a Hell of a Time.

As the pandemic shut down touring in early 2020, Mays set up a studio in his garage and produced Dog City, an inspiring album written from the perspective of a rescue dog. In early 2021, From Burnside With Love, a live album showcasing unplugged versions of his most popular songs, was released along with a concert film of the same name.

Polaris

Trailside Music Hall is located at 155 Kent Street in Charlottetown. Showtimes are 8 pm with doors opening at 6:30 pm (unless otherwise noted). For tickets and info visit trailside.ca or call 367-3311.

Basia Bulat returns to the Trailside stage on August 17 at 8 pm. Bulat is a JUNO Award and

Prize nominated singer-songwriter based in Montreal, QC. She offers both

(L-R): Joce Reyome, Brandon Howard Roy, Craig Fair and Josée Boudreau The Barrel Boys

Souris Show Hall

Music, theatre and comedy continue into September

The Umbrella Collective liven up the stage on August 17

The Souris Show Hall has a full schedule of performances this month.

Saltwater Hank—an Indigenous folk and country artist whose songs are written entirely in the Ts’mysen language Sm’algyax—will perform with Danny Bell on August 1.

Performances of The Wonder Of It All, a romantic comedy about life and marriage written by a Stratford playwright, will run August 2 and 3.

On August 10, Jing Xia will present a cultural performance with traditional Chinese fiddles and guzheng, accompanied by Mark Haines, Lelie Van Niekerk and Charlie Coffin.

Super Trouper

A crash course of Island life will be offered with the comedy show Island At Heart on August 15.

The Umbrella Collective will showcase hip-hop, RnB, Afrofunk, and more with Joce Reyome on August 17.

Other performers this month include Catherine MacLellan and Tiffany Liu on August 22, Shane Pendergast on August 24, and Fiddlers’ Sons on August 31.

The season will continue in September with performances by Lennie Gallant on September 5 and Inn Echo on September 7. sourisshowhall.com

ABBA tribute show at PEI Brewing Company in August

Presented by Craig Fair Music Productions, Super Trouper: A Night of ABBA, will be on stage at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on select dates from August 7–30. When it comes to ABBA, the list of songs is endless, and almost every single one is a banger. Dance in the aisles and sing along to hits like “Dancing Queen,” “Waterloo,” “Super Trouper,” “Money,” “Voulez Vous,”

ONGOING MUSIC

ceilidhs, series, sessions...

Assumption Ceilidhs

A ceilidh is held on the third Sunday of each month from 2–4 pm at Assumption Parish Centre in Stratford. Hosted by Assumption Catholic Women’s League and Assumption Knights of Columbus, the afternoon features the music of the Young at Heart with Leo Gallant, Randy Cheverie, Norman LeClair, Dave Shephard, Paul Chandler, Robert Cain and Dave Moore, plus special guests. Admission is at the door. A 50/50 draw, tea and light refreshments are included. Proceeds go to Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. Info: Leo Gallant, 902-569–3202, leowgallant@hotmail.com

Back Home Tonight

Gordon Belsher is back home hosting a concert series on Mondays at 7:30 pm until September 16 at the air-conditioned Stanley Bridge WI Hall. Guests include Todd MacLean on piano, ukulele, and saxophone, and Island fiddlers Courtney Hogan-Chandler and Cynthia MacLeod. Each show features a combination of the three of them on a rollercoaster ride of singable songs, jigs, reels, airs, poignant ballads, and a few surprises. Book seats in advance at gordonbelsher.com or by cash payment at the door, which opens at 7 pm. 4897 St. Mary’s Rd, Stanley Bridge.

Ceilidhs & Cones

Island musician and storyteller Michael Pendergast returns for another season of lively ceilidhs in the gardens of Holman’s Ice Cream Parlour in Summerside. The ceilidhs take place every Saturday at 10 am. Each week will feature special guests. On rainy days, the ceilidh moves inside the parlour. 286 Fitzroy St, Summerside

Ceilidhs at the Irish Hall

in August inclues: Lawrence Maxwell, and Johnny & Stephanie Ross (Aug 7); Old Home Week Rock n Roll Reunion with guests Niall MacKay, Jimi Platts, Heather McAulay, David Altass and Gary Cudmore (14); and Gordon Belsher & Todd MacLean (28). The venue is fully accessible and air-conditioned, with parking, and canteen and bar services. Admission is cash only at the door, which opens at 6:30 pm, and free for children 13 and under. For large group reservations or accessibility needs, contact Kendall at 902-569-1133 or peimusicman@gmail. com. 7 Pond St, Charlottetown.

Close to the Ground

Hosted by Fiddlers’ Sons (Eddy Quinn, Keelin Wedge, Cynthia MacLeod, and John B. Webster), this weekly concert series runs on Thursdays at 8 pm until September 26 at Hillcrest United. The band invites a different musical guest to join them each week for a night of PEI roots music and storytelling. The guest lineup in August includes: Joey and Julien Kitson (Aug 1); Dahlia Avenue (8); Billy MacInnis Trio (15); Nick Doneff (22); and Tip Er Back (29). Admission is at the door with no advance tickets sold. 50 Wood Islands Rd, Montague.

C’mon In! at Trailside

This East Coast kitchen party features hosts Robbie Doherty and Pierce Clarke with their seven-piece band at Trailside Music Hall. Performances continue on Wednesdays through September. The high-energy show is a celebration of East Coast music and features crowd participation, prizes, and a mix of traditional folk, sea shanties, and contemporary East Coast hits. Visit trailside.ca for tickets. 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Concerts in the Garden

and “Mamma Mia,” and be moved by ballads like “The Winner Takes It All” and “Slipping Through My Fingers.”

Starring Julain Molnar, Kelley Mooney, Josée Boudreau, Izzy Serebrov, and Craig Fair, this all-ages show will take the audience on a delightful journey through the lyrics and compositions of this legendary band.

To purchase tickets visit peibrewingcompany.com.

The Benevolent Irish Society’s ceilidhs in August feature local bands and musicians, including: Sue Pitre & Frank Whitty with fiddler Buddy Longaphie (Aug 2); Fullerton’s Marsh (Frank McQuaid, Randy Dibblee and Willie Arsenault) (9); The Irish Scots (Maxine MacLennon, Norman Stewart, Courtney Hogan-Chandler) with Alan Buchanan and dancers Janelle Banks and Molly MacEwan (16); Fiddlers’ Sons (Eddy Quinn and John B Webster) with fiddler Allison Giggey (23); and Cian & Mary with fiddler Luka Hall (30). Music starts at 8 pm. Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets are available at the door or online at benevolentirishsocietyofpei.com. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

Ceilidh

in the City

Now in its 14th season, this ceilidh series is held on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm until December 4 at the Jack Blanchard Centre. Hosted by Kendall Docherty, Peter Burke, Brian Knox, Brian Langille, and Brian Blacquiere, the family-friendly events feature a variety of PEI music and musical guests each week. The lineup

Local musicians and bands perform on the outdoor stage at Wyatt Heritage Properties from 6:30–8:30 pm on Wednesdays until August 21. The lineup includes: Three’s Company (Aug 7); Timeless Tunes Duo Holley and McLure (14); and Not All There (21).

Admission is by donation and spectators should bring their own chair. Wyatt homemade ice cream will be sold at intermission. Located at 205 Prince St in Summerside. Info: culturesummerside. com; 902-432-1298

Cymbria Lions Club Ceilidhs

Ceilidhs take place on Sundays at 7:30 pm. This month’s lineup includes: Michael & Shane Pendergast (Aug 4); Eddy Quinn, John B Webster & Keelin Wedge (11); Stephanie & Johnny Ross (18); and Jordan LeClair, and Michael Richard & Family (25). Admission is at the door, which opens at 6:30 pm. There is a 50/50 draw, canteen services, and the venue is accessible and air-conditioned. 2184 Church Rd, Rustico. Info: 902-9632166, cymbrialions.ca or follow on FB.

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.

Gone is the Kerosene Lamp

Presented by the Ross Family Ceilidh, this show explores the rich music and dance traditions of Celtic and Acadian PEI, through song and story, as well as contemporary sounds of the Island and more. Siblings Stephanie Ross, Johnny Ross, and Danielle Ross present Gone is the Kerosene Lamp at 7:30 pm at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall with performances August 6, 12, 22 (2 pm matinee) and 29, and September 5, 9, 18 and 25. Visit rossfamily.ca or call 1-888-311-9090 for tickets. 140 Weymouth St, Charlottetown.

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. The August lineup includes: Jacob Reddin and the Striped Shirt Band (Aug 1); Garrett Sherwood Quartet (8); Island Jazz Greatest Hits and Farewell to Jordan Taylor (15); Mark Haines Trio (22); Lucia Dostal Quartet (29). Admission is by donation. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

June Morrow & Friends

June Morrow sings a mix of covers and originals with special guests every Saturday from 1–4 pm at The Lucky Bean–Montague. Admission is free. There is a tip jar for the musicians. The series runs until mid-September. 576 Main St, Montague.

La Gang à Manu

A concert series featuring traditional Acadian songs and music runs daily through August with performances every Tuesday to Friday at 1:30 pm and 3 pm in Ti-Manuel’s Barn at Village musical acadien. The lineup includes Michel Lalonde (vocals), Caroline Bernard vocals, guitar, accordion, piano), Gilbert Arsenault (fiddle), and Rémi Arsenault (bass) Admission is by donation. 1745, Rte 124, Abram-Village.

Lot 7 Ceilidhs

Weekly ceilidhs take place on Thursdays at 7:30 pm at St. Mark’s Parish Hall. The lineup in August includes: Sandra Jones and family (Aug 1); Jordan LeClair with his grandfather Alfie Perry and family (8); Jamie Matthews and Wade Carragher (15); Nick Arsenault (aka Johnny Cash) with Big River Band (22); and The Treble Makers including Gail DesRoches (mandolin and guitar), Cindy Arsenault (vocals) and Stephanie Sark (vocals and guitar) (29). There are door prizes, a 50/50 draw, and lunch at intermission. 8091 Rte 14, Burton.

Michael Pendergast and Tom McSwiggan ceilidhs

Now in their 27th season, Michael Pendergast and ‘Uncle’ Tom McSwiggan host family-friendly entertainment with a distinctive PEI flavour at two locations all summer. The ceilidhs feature Celtic, traditional and local songs and stories, fiddling and step dancing, and strawberries and ice cream at intermission. Shane Pendergast (vocals, guitar) and Andy Doucette (fiddle) complete the band, and Veronica Murray is the step dancer. Ceilidhs take place on Wednesdays through August at Malpeque Hall (Rte 20, Malpeque) and on Thursdays at Stanley Bridge WI Hall (4897 St. Mary’s Rd, Stanley Bridge). Showtime is 7:30 pm. Admission is cash only at the door, which opens at 7 pm. Info: 902-836-4310

Morrell Summer Concert Series

The Morell and Area Development Corporation’s summer concert series features two-hours of free, live music with local entertainers at the Leo Rossiter Park Pavilion. The August lineup includes: The Fraggle Rockers (2 pm, Aug 4); Dwayne Doiron (6:30 pm, Aug 15); Abi Marie (6:30 pm, Aug 22); Morell and Area Fiddlers followed by the United Church Choir (2 pm, Aug 25); and Jacinta MacDonald (6:30 pm, Aug 29). 35 Riverside Dr, Morell.

The Sounds of the Waterfront at Peake’s Quay

The Sounds of the Waterfront at Peake’s Quay features live music twice daily from 2–4 pm and 5–7 pm. The lineup for August is: Macaroon/Barry O’Brien (Sundays); Brian Langille/Kendall Docherty (Mondays); We 3/Dino & Judy (Tuesdays); Greg Bungay/Norman & Maxine (Wednesdays); Mike Stratton/ Dino & Judy (Thursdays); Gordon Belsher/Barry O’Brien (Fridays); David Woodside/Lucy Blu (Saturdays). 1 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Richard Wood: An Evening of Celtic Music

Now in its 15th season, this concert series takes place on Saturdays at 7:30 pm at the Stanley Bridge WI Hall. In addition to the pure East Coast music with five-time ECMA Award winner Richard Wood, there is a 50/50 draw, and strawberries and ice cream at intermission. Call 902-330-3293 or visit rwood.ca to book reserved seats in advance. Remaining seats are available on a first come basis on show day when the doors open at 6:30 pm. The Hall is fully accessible, air-conditioned, and has free parking. 4897 St. Mary’s Rd, Stanley Bridge.

St. Margarets Kitchen Party and Square Dance

The Chaisson Trio (Kevin Chaisson, Louise Chaisson-MacKinnon and Sheila MacKenzie) play at St. Margarets Community Hall every Sunday this summer at 7:30 pm. Enjoy traditional Island fiddling, songs, square dancing and more. This all ages, authentic Island experience includes a a 50/50 draw, homemade lunch, Northside tea and

coffee at intermission. The Sunday night kitchen parties are a fundraiser for the upkeep of the hall. Admission is cash at the door. 11394 Northside Rd, Souris.

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.

Seaside Music Revival Concert Series

Presented by Lobster PEI, this series takes place on Tuesdays in August at The Fiddling Fisherman. Hosted by Barry O’Brien and Brent Chaisson, the concerts feature weekly guests. This month’s schedule includes: Richard Wood (Aug 6); Mike and Karen Penton (13); Rick Sparkes and The Enabler Trio (20); and Julie and Danny (27). Doors open at 7 pm. Show time is 8 pm. Visit fiddlingfishermanlookout.com for tickets. 120 Breakwater St, Souris.

Stanley Bridge Centre

The Proud Islanders play on Sunday evenings at 7 pm until September 1. Also performing are Louise & Jonny Ray Arsenault on Aug 11 and 25. Seating is limited. To reserve a seat, email or e-transfer oneproudeislander@gmail. com along with the names of the people attending. The list will be at the door person. 9979 Rte 6, Stanley Bridge. Info: oneproudeislander@gmail.com

Stanley Bridge Hall Ceilidh

A ceilidh featuring Troy MacGillivray and The Chaissons, runs on Wednesdays through August at 7:30 pm. These ceilidhs celebrate the traditional music of PEI and Cape Breton Island and feature an evening complete with stories, fiddling, songs, laughter, and, of course, step dancing. The group includes piano player Kevin Chaisson, singer and guitarist Louise Chaisson-MacKinnon, fiddler Sheila MacKenzie, Cape Breton step dancer Gerard Beaton, host Marsha Weeks, and special guest fiddler Troy MacGillivray. 4897 St. Mary’s Rd, Stanley Bridge. Info: peiceilidhs.com

Stratford and Area Lions Club Ceilidh

A ceilidh is held at the Robert L. Cotton Centre on the second Sunday of each month from 2–4 pm. The next ceilidh is August 11. Coffee, tea, and a light lunch are provided. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford. Info: 902-569-3956

Summer Cabaret Series

The Summer Cabaret concert series at Village musical acadien continues with PEI musicians performing every Friday until August 23 from 8–11 pm in the Acadian Festival Barn. Backed by The Cabaret Band (Danny MacNevin, drummer Rodney Arsenault, Keelin Wedge, and Rémi Arsenault), special guests this month are: Jordan Leclair (Aug 2); Cory Gallant (9); Jonny Ray Arsenault (16); and Peggy Clinton (23). There is bar service and snacks for purchase. This is a 19+ event. 1745, Rte 124, Abram-Village. villagemusical.ca

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.

That’s The Island For Ya Deer!

That’s The Island For Ya Deer, with Mike and Shane Pendergast, continues August 3 and 10 at 7:30 pm at the Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside. This quintessential PEI show features the songs behind the stories and the stories behind the songs. 619 Water St E, Summerside.

Trad Night at Village Green

PEI’s smallest brewery, specializing in traditional and modern beer styles, hosts a Trad Night every Thursday. 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.

Tunes & Tastebuds

Back for another season, Tunes and Tastebuds features live music with Todd Gallant and Chris Arsenault on Tuesday evenings in August from 6:30–8 pm. Reservations are recommended. 2841 New Glasgow Rd, New Glasgow. preservecompany.com

Acadian festivities

Musical performances for all tastes—Aug 29 to Sept 1

The 2024 Evangeline Area Agricultural Exhibition & Acadian Festival, taking place from August 29 to September 1, will feature an array of musical performances. These concerts, organized to cater to all tastes, will aptly reflect this year’s theme: Embracing Our Acadian Pride. Acadian music will fill the air throughout the four days of the festival, emanating from both the exhibition grounds and the main stage at the Evangeline Recreation Centre rink in Abram-Village.

The entire weekend kicks off at 7 pm on August 29 with The Acazing Talent Night, an amateur talent show for Island artists of all ages. The talent can include singing, playing music, dancing, performing monologues, comedy skits, or any other type of performing art. The registration deadline is August 9. Contact Marcia Arsenault at lpmarsenault@hotmail. com or 902-432-0769. Although the evening is not a competition, there will be a draw for a small prize from among those who perform in French.

On August 30, the official opening at 1:15 pm on the main stage will feature several local artists, including a performance of the festival theme song. At 2:30 pm, the PEI Youth Talent Competition finals will take place, featuring young winners from regional competitions.

On August 31, at 2 pm, “Les chansons et la comédie de par cheznous” will showcase local artists Nick Arsenault, Samantha Arsenault, Debbie Rousselle-Montgomery, and Rémi Arsenault. Mama et les Boys (Caroline Bernard, Rémi, Riel, and Benoit Arsenault) will also perform. At 4:30 pm, the New Brunswick group Réveil will play a soundcheck for the

Rock Barra Concert Series

The Sunday Concert Series at Rock Barra Artist Retreat continues this summer through August.

Lawrence Maxwell brings his musical talent to Rock Barra on August 4. Teresa Doyle and guests will entertain on August 11, and Lucy Farrell will perform on August 18. Doors open at 7 pm. Showtime is 7:30 pm. Admission is free for farmers and children under 12. For tickets, visit teresadoyle.com/rock-barra-retreat.

Mont-Carmel concerts

Summer series continues in August

The summer concert series at the Mont-Carmel Parish Hall continues in August with performances every Sunday evening at 7 pm.

Concert dates and performers this month include: JP LeBlanc (NB), Brad Milligan & Brooke MacArthur, and Ivan & Vivian Hicks (NB) on August 4; Bronko (QC), Anica (NB) and Dahlia Ave (NB) on August 11; Scott & Gerald Delhunty with Marc Babin (NB), Dueling Pianos with Craig Fair and

Ben Aitken, and Luka Hall with Shane & Michael Pendergast on August 18; and Daniel Goguen & Daniel Léger (NB), Salt Water Dollies, and Peter Arsenault, Albert Arsenault and Helen Bergeron on August 25.

Each evening includes a 50/50 draw and canteen service. Visit cooperativeculturelledemontcarmel. com for ticketing details and more. The hall is located at 5786 Route 11 in Mont-Carmel.

Évangéline et Gabriel dance taking place that evening.

On September 1 at 2:30 pm, the popular fiddle and stepdancing show will be held on the main stage, featuring top Island fiddlers and stepdancers. At 4:30 pm, the young singers’ and musicians’ show on the outdoor stage will highlight the best young artists from the area.

The closing show on Sunday evening at 7 pm will review the artistic highlights of the year, headlined by Gadelle. This renowned local group, featuring fiddler Louise Arsenault, organist and singer Hélène Bergeron, bass player and guitarist Rémi Arsenault, and singer-guitarist-accordionist Caroline Bernard, has performed internationally. The Young Acadian of the Year and Acadian of the Year awards will be presented before the show.

For more information, visit expositionfestival.ca.

Bonshaw Hall

Ceilidh

Music will fill the Bonshaw Hall on the evening of August 6 from 7–9 pm. Performers include special guests Nick, Sharon and Steve, Denis Larocque and John MacAllar, Guy Robichaud, and Tony Reddin. Admission is by donation at the door, with all proceeds going to the upkeep of the Hall, which is located at 9 Green Road in Bonshaw. Follow @sharonnickp on FB for updates.

Musical Dinners

Village Musical Acadien pairs entertainment and a meal

The Musical Dinners series at Village Musical Acadien in Abram-Village features live Acadian, Scottish, Celtic, country, or folk music, paired with a three-course meal.

On August 8, Evangeline-area musicians Nick and Samantha Arsenault, along with Debbie RousselleMontgomery, Robert Doucette, and Géraldine Arsenault, will perform country, traditional, and Acadian songs, fiddle music in Acadian and Scottish styles, and comedy sketches.

On August 15, the Ross Family trio—Stephanie, Johnny, and Danielle—will present a cultural experience of song, story, music, and dance, showcasing their Celtic and Acadian roots.

The final show on August 22 will feature singer-organist Helen Bergeron and fiddler Louise Arsenault, joined by their children: singer-musician Megan

Bergeron and singer-guitarist Jonny Ray Arsenault. Expect energetic performances of traditional and modern music.

Tickets are available in advance, either in-person at Village Musical Acadien or online at villagemusical.ca.

The Pourhouse—Aug 15

Route 225’s monthly concert series at the Pourhouse in Charlottetown returns August 15 from 7–9:30 pm.

Featuring band members Roland, Adam, Todd, and Deryl, Route 225 has

the musical depth to explore various styles and genres with ease. The band has backed artists like Amanda Jackson, Anica, Trinity Bradshaw, Brooke MacArthur, and Amelia Underhill.

Admission is cash at the door, which opens at 7 pm. Reservations are recommended by calling 902-892-5200.

Gadelle (above) and Nick & Samantha Arsenault will perform during the Festival

New Brunswick’s Dahlia Ave (above), and Bronko from Quebec will be on stage in August

The Ross Family (above) and Helen Bergeron and Louise Arsenault

Music Arcade by Dennis Ellsworth

Dylan Menzie

Dylan Menzie grew up in Eastern Prince Edward Island. He released his first EP, Heather Avenue (2013), at the age of nineteen. His sound has evolved over the years, and because we like to compartmentalize art for the sake of consumption, his could be identified as a combination of folk, rock, and pop, perhaps best described as Indie Pop Americana.

Menzie has a very strong and confident voice but can effortlessly bring a beautiful soft side to his work when he wants to. Since his career began, success has been a relative constant for Dylan. The first song, “I Wanna Know,” from his debut release was an immediate fan favourite and in 2016, he was a finalist in CBC’s annual Searchlight competition. His breakout single, “Kenya,” spent two weeks at number one on CBC Radio 2’s Top 20. This led the way to his sophomore release, Adolescent Nature

Christine Bougie (Bahamas), and Tim Chaisson (The East Pointers).

Menzie reflects on his upcoming album, North American Dream Kid, due September 6, 2024:

In 2018, he showcased his versatility with a pared back release called As the Clock Rewinds, which reimagined songs from his album Adolescent Nature. This release was nominated for Album of the Year at the 2019 East Coast Music Awards, as well as Contemporary Vocalist of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards.

His rise continued with the release of his first full length album, Lost in Dreams, for which he was awarded Songwriter of the Year, Solo Recording of the Year and Entertainer of the Year at the 2021 Music PEI Awards.

In 2022, he was awarded ECMA’s Song of the Year for his single “A Heart That Doesn’t Want Mine” and then in 2023 he was awarded ECMA’s Rising Star Recording of the Year for “A Piece of Me“ from his self-produced release, Modern Classic

This summer, in anticipation of his new album, Dylan is busy with performances across the western part of Canada. His lead single, “Strong Enough,” arrived in July. North American Dream Kid is a well-crafted and very well produced collection of vulnerable, catchy, and sometimes sarcastic songs. The album features guests, Tyler Chester (Madison Cunningham), Joshua Van Tassel &

“The songs on this album mean so much to me—not only because of the growth that came from writing, but also because of the attention to detail and love that went into every track. I’m so grateful for all the amazing players that are on these recordings, and to anyone that feels something from what we’ve made.

“One of my favourite things about releasing a record is that it encapsulates a chunk of my life, and a snapshot of myself.

“I feel like I’ve grown a lot through making this album. As a musician, and as a person. So much of the writing came from a very personal and sometimes dark space—and there’s a lot of what I’ve learned about myself, and the people that come and go in life, scattered through these songs.

“It feels very fitting that it be released on my 30th birthday.”

Sommo Festival presents Wintersleep the Land Of, encourages a similar kind

Remembering Elvis

Thane Dunn is back in the building—Aug 17

Although it has been 47 years since Elvis Presley passed away, he remains a cultural phenomenon worldwide, loved by young and old. On August 17, audience members can relive the music and magic of the King of Rock and Roll with two-time world champion Thane Dunn and his Cadillac Kings’ new show, Remembering Elvis, at the Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside.

Dunn will transport the audience back in time when Elvis was the undisputed King of Rock and Roll. They will hear the timeless classics, from “Love Me Tender” to “Suspicious Minds,” and many more. Dunn delivers the full Elvis experience. With his natural resemblance, Elvis voice, moves, and charisma, his tribute is so

convincing that he is actually endorsed by several people who worked and toured with the real Elvis. Tickets are available at thanedunn. com and at the box office. Limited VIP meet and greet packages are available.

Stephen Page

In concert at PEI Brewing Company—Aug 17

Sommo Festival presents Steven Page at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on August 17.

A founding member and former lead singer, guitarist, and primary songwriter of the Barenaked Ladies, Steven Page has been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Since launching his solo career in 2009, he has toured five solo albums worldwide. Most recently, his album series, Live From Home. Nova Scotia folk-pop artist Kristen Martell will open. peibrewingcompany.com

LIVE MUSIC

bars, lounges, cafés...

Albert & Crown Pub

Alyssa Harper & Jim Williams (Aug 1 @8 pm);Louise & Jonny Ray Arsenault (3 @6 pm); Danny Drouin (4 @4 pm); Joey Doucette (8/15/29 @8 pm);Bruce & Robert Jones (9 @6 pm); Blake Orville Crockett (10 @7 pm); Floyd Gaudet (11 @4 pm); Blair Gaudet (16 @6 pm); Alyssa Harper & Jim Williams (24 @8 pm); Fisher Kings (30 @6 pm). 480 Main St, Alberton.

Baba’s Lounge

Tuesdays (8 pm) and Fridays & Saturdays (10 pm) (unless noted): Sunshine Makers, Josh Carter (Aug 2); TBA (3); Munch Dance (6); Sun Junkies, Sorry Snowman, Norter, Green Eyes Witch Hands (9); Danny Gallant Band (10 @5 pm); BraedenV Neon Nights Album Release Party (10); Understand Trees (13); Brandon Mints (16); Lambs Become Lions, Sticky Honey, Chamberlain (17); Jayo Show (20); Lucia Dostal & Alyssa Harper (23); Lucky Leroux with Scott Parsons (24 @7 pm); Lloyd’s Money, Gizmo, Takeda Takeda (24 @11 pm); Steve Creep and The Wild Cards (30); Plain Dirty Blues (31 @5 pm); Apee Afrohouse (31 @11 pm). Karaoke with Britt on Mondays (10 pm). Island Jazz on Thursdays (7:30 pm); Open Mic with KINLEY on Wednesdays (9 pm). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Barnone Brewing

Saturdays (8–11 pm): Dennis Ellsworth (Aug 3); Ken Arsenault (10); Shane Pendergast (17); Logan Richard (24); Out From Under, Mike Dixon (30 *Fri); Catherine MacLellan (31). 4248 Route 225, Rose Valley.

Bogside Brewing

Fridays & Saturdays (6:30–9:30 pm) and Sundays (3–6 pm): Adam MacGregor (Aug 2 @4:30 pm); Barry OBrien (3 @5 pm); Rick Arsenault (4); Brian Dunn (9); Billy White (10); Boggeroo (11, *ticketed with Cloggeroo); Steve Zaat (16); David Woodside (17); Lisa Birt (18); Dan Doiron (23); Carter MacLellan (24); Margarita Wayne (25); Stephen Szwarc (30); Rick Arsenault (31). 11 Brook St, Montague.

Brothers 2

Thursdays (7–9 pm) & Fridays (7–10 pm): David Woodside (Aug 1/22); Nick Hann (8/23); D’Arcy & Moe (9/16); Chris Ahern (15/29). 618 Water St, Summerside.

Charlottetown Beer Garden

Daily (6–10 pm): Chris Ahern Duo (Mon); David Woodside Duo (Tue); Vintage 2.0 (Wed); Richie Bulger Duo (Thu *except Aug 22); Kim Albert (Fri); Adam MacGregor & The Foes (Sat *except Aug 3); Brad Milligan Duo (Sun). Live DJ on

Friday and Saturdays (11 pm): Novah (2); Möjö & Mossboy (3); Douce (9/16); Method (10/17/24); DJ Battle: Novah & Big S (23); Spoonfed (30). (185 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Charlottetown Legion

Saturdays (9:30 pm): Power House (Aug 3); Roundabout (10); Miller Creek (17); Hache (24); Kim Albert (31). All are welcome. 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.

Copper Bottom Brewing

Fridays (5–8 pm): Nick Doneff (2); Brad Milligan (9); Shane Pendergast (16); Lawrence Maxwell (23); Roger Stone (30). 567 Main St, Montague.

Craft Beer Corner

Live DJ on Saturdays (10 pm). 156 Great George St, Charlottetown.

The Deckhouse Pub & Eatery

Saturdays (6–9 pm): Dave Doyle & Blu Gillis (Aug 3); Trevor Cameron (10); Rod & Blake (17); Acoustic Brothers (24); TBA (31). 150 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside

The Terrace at Double Hill Cidery

Brandon Howard Roy (17 @7 pm); Montuno Cubano (31 @7 pm). 146 Billy MacDonald Rd, Caledonia.

Evermoore Brewing

Tuesdays (6–8 pm): Nick Doneff (Aug 6); Janeil Chantelle (13); Geoffrey Charlton (20); Sarah Segal-Lezar (27). Celtic Jam with host Geoff Charlton on Saturdays (2–4 pm). 192 Water St, Summerside.

The

Factory

Live DJ on Thursday, Fridays & Saturdays (10 pm): Douce (Aug 2/30); Derrek (3/31); Method (9/23); TBA (10/16/17/24). Karaoke with Jack Day on Thursdays (10 pm). 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.

FiN Folk Food

Tuesdays and Wednesdays (5:30–7:30 pm): Danny & Jeremy Gallant (Aug 6/14/28); TBA (7/13); Brad Milligan (20); Nathan Carragher (21); Brothers MacPhee (27). 106 Beach Rd, Grand Tracadie.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market

Monday to Saturday (12–2 pm/6–8 pm) and Sundays (12–2 pm/2:30–4:30 pm): Iván Garnica/Fraser McCallum (Aug 1); Patrick Nabuurs & Jordan Taylor/ Kelley Mooney (2); Margarita Wayne/ Mike Stratton (3); Natal Day programming (4); Charlotte Russell/Carter MacLellan (5); John MacAllar/Ryan Merry (6); Steve

Two-time world champion Thane Dunn

Zaat/Adam MacGregor (7); Ava & Lily/ John MacAllar (8); Shane Pendergast/ BraedenV (9); Chris Burke/Abi Marie (10); Luka Hall/Jerry Laird (11); Patrick Nabuurs & Jordan Taylor/Fraser McCallum (11); The Trash Bling Sisters/ Pierce Clark (13); Claude Bergeron/ Charlotte Russel (14); Acadian Festival programming (15); Ava & Lily/Blu Robin Music (16); Margarita Wayne/David Woodside (17); Adam MacGregor/Abi Marie (18); Tom Gammons & Ray Knorr/ Kelley Mooney (19); Pierce Clark/Carter MacLellan (20); Patrick Nabuurs & Jordan Taylor/ShipWrecks (21); Brandon Gillis/Ryan Merry (22); Brandon Gillis/ Somerset Step Dancers (23); Flora MacLaine & Grace Sulis-Chaisson/ Brandon Gillis (24); BraedenV/Kelly Mooney (25); Tom Gammons & Romy Munkres/Blu Robin Music (26); Jerry Laird/Nathan Carragher (27); Davis Ward/Nat & Wayne (28); Margarita Wayne/ShipWrecks (29); Ava & Lily/ David Woodside (30); Dan Doiron/Rom Gammons & Ray Knorr (31). 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.

Gahan House

Wednesdays & Thursdays (9 pm). 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

The Hub Lounge

Fridays (6–9 pm) and Saturdays (1–4 pm): Steve Zaat (Aug 2); Brian Dunn (3); Dave Connolly (9); Sam Ramsay (10/17/23); Nick Clow & Geoff Warren (16/24); Wayne Gallant (30); Ashley Gorman (31). Andersons Creek Golf Club, 68 North Rd, Stanley Bridge.

Hunter’s Ale House

Lieutenant Dan (Aug 1/8/15/22/29); Copycat (3/17/31). Corner of Kent & Prince Sts, Charlottetown.

John Brown Grille

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (10 pm): Chris Ahern Duo (Thu); Brothers MacPhee (Aug 2/30); TBA (3/9/10/16/23); Adam & Liam (17); Dave & Kirk (24); Jon & Liam (29/31). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.

The Local Pub & Oyster Bar

Monday to Saturday (7 pm) and Sundays (6 pm): Luka Hall (Sun); Cole Brioux (Mon); Lawrence Maxwell (Tue); Dan MacAulay & Taylor Johnston (Wed); Thatcher MacKay (Thu); Todd MacLean & Justin Simard (Aug 2); Dan Doiron (3); Adam MacGregor & Liam Kearney (9); Gypsy Soul Duo (10); Cole Brioux (16); Ella Campbell (17); Todd MacLean & Justin Simard (23); Dan Doiron (24/30); Brian Dunn (31). 202 Buchanan Dr, Charlottetown.

Lone Oak Brew Pub

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (6–8 pm): Nathan Carragher (Aug 15); Brad Milligan (16); Brothers MacPhee (17); Nathan Carragher (22/29); Meg Ingramm (23); Stratton & Kays (24); TBD (30); Jordan Cameron (31). 15 Milky Way, Charlottetown.

Lone Oak Brewing Co

Sundays (1–3 pm): Mike & Karen (Aug 4); Nathan Carragher (11); Brothers MacPhee (18); Dan Doiron (25). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.

Lone Oak Beer Garden Patio

Taylor Buote on Thursday (6–9 pm). Avonlea Village, 8779 Rte 6, Cavendish.

The Lucky Bean: Stratford

Songwriters Circle on Aug 17 (2–4 pm).

Open Mic with Robert McMillan on Sundays (1–4 pm). 17 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford.

The Lucky Bean: Montague

June Morrow & Friends on Saturdays (1–4 pm). 576 Main St, Montague.

Marc’s Lounge

Fridays & Saturdays (9–11 pm): Mike Stratton (Aug 2); David Woodside (3/23); Nathan Carragher (9); Justyn Young (10); Brooke MacArthur (16); Sarah SegalLazar (17); John McLaren (24); Jordan Cameron (30); Mat Hannah (31). 125 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Montague Legion

The Solid Line (Aug 2 @10 pm); Benefit for Pam (MacLean) Somers (12); Nick Doneff (24 @8 pm); No Turmoil (31 @9 pm). Karaoke on Fridays (8 pm–midnight) with Gloria. 15 Douses Rd, Montague.

Montague Waterfront

Marina

Sundays (6–8 pm): Ivan Daigle (Aug 4); Keira Loane (11); Carter MacLellan (18); Frank Whitty (25). Station St, Montague.

Next Door @ The Merchantman

Thursdays (6–8 pm), Fridays (5–7 pm/7:30–9:30 pm) and Saturdays (2–4 pm/7–9 pm): Ryan Merry (Aug 1); Dan Doiron/ Wayne Gallant (2); TBA/Ashley Gorman (3); Ryan Merry (8); Aaron (Protogey)/ TBA (9); Adam MacGregor/Mat Hanna (10); Adam MacGregor (15); Ashley Gorman/Mat Hanna (16); TBA/Aaron (Protogey) (17); Brooke MacArthur (22); Ryan Merry/Mat Hanna (23); Brooke MacArthur/TBA (24); Adam MacGregor (29); Adam MacGregor/Aaron (Protogey) (30); Adam MacGregor/Mat Hanna (31). 23 Queen St, Charlottetown.

North Rustico Lions Club

Saturdays (8–11 pm). Tuesday Jam Nights (7 pm start). 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.

Olde Dublin Pub

Sundays (7–10 pm), Monday to Thursday (8–11 pm) and Fridays & Saturdays (10 pm) (unless noted): Dan Doiron (Aug 1); Jon Matthews & Liam Kearney (2 @9 pm); MacBeth (3); Gordon Belsher & Allison Giggey (4/18); Gordon Belsher & Courtney Hogan-Chandler (11); Gordon Belsher & Cynthia MacLeod (25); Lawrence Maxwell (5/12/19/26); Robbie Doherty (6/13/20/27); Saul Good Duo (7/21); Richie Bulger & Trevor Campbell

(14/28); Vintage 2.0 (8/15/22/29); Stratton & Kays (9 @9 pm); TBA (10); Ella Campbell (16 @7 pm); Alyssa Harper Project (16 @11 pm); Gypsy Soul (17); Threat Level Midnight (23); Wannabeez (24); Adam MacGregor and The Foes (30); Wrecking Crew (31). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Peake’s Quay

Every day (7–10 pm): Billy White (Aug 1/8/15/22/19); Robbie & Pierce Show (2/9/16/23/30 @8 pm); We 3 (3); Wil McGonegal (4/11/18/25); Pierce Clark (5/12/19/26); Thatcher MacKay (6/13/20/27); Steve Szwarc & Marvin Birt (7/14/21/28); Karen & Mike Penton (10); Acoustic Brothers (17); Brian Dunn (24). Live DJ on Saturdays (10:30 pm): DJ Flycore (Aug 3/24); DJ Deuce (17/31). 11 Great George St, Charlottetown.

RCAF Wing Summerside

Saturdays (9 pm). 329 North Market St, Summerside.

Red’s Gold Cup Lounge

Fridays & Saturdays: Karen & Mike Penton (Aug 2); Roger Stone (3); Nathan Carragher (9); Steve Zaat (10); Billy White (16); GOLD CUP (17); Wayne Gallant (23); Roger Stone (24); Mat Hannah (30); Barry O’Brien (31). Red Shores, 21 Exhibition Dr, Charlottetown.

Salvador Dalí Café

Janeil Chantelle (Aug 10 @6 pm); Dueling Pianos (10/24 @10 pm); Jeff Doherty (17/31 @10 pm). 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

The Silver Fox

Roundabout (Aug 2 @10 pm); DJ Biggar Beatz - Retro Remix (3 @9:30 pm); Shipwrecks (9 @10 pm); Nick Hann (10 @2:30 pm); Swamp River (16 @10 pm); High Voltage (AC/DC Tribute) (17 @9:30 pm); Kenny Pearl & the Oysters (23 @10 pm); Down with Darby, Denton Fender (30 @9:30 pm); Powerhouse (30 @10 pm); 80s/90s Video Dance (31 @9:30 pm). 110 Water St, Summerside.

Stoked Bakehouse

Keira Loane on Aug 9 & 23 (6 pm). 190 Rte 258, New Glasgow.

Music in Victoria

Nudie performs two shows at the Playhouse in August

Nudie and Willie

August 9

Island troubadour Nudie will perform classic hits and orignal compositions at Victoria Playhouse on August 9 at 8 pm.

An Island sensation, Nudie has toured long and far and played in venues all across North America. A natural raconteur, he will tell the stories behind his songs, and recall tales of busking out front and going backstage on Willie Nelson’s 2006 Canadian tour. With Bobby McIsaac on guitar and vocals, the show will feature a mix of Willlie’s biggest hits and Nudie’s original compositions.

Lightfoot

Sundays, 4 pm / Wednesdays, 8 pm

Lightfoot–A Celebration of the Man & His Music continues this month at Victoria Playhouse. Performances take place on Wednesdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 4 pm, offering a heartfelt celebration of the man and his songs.

With hits like “If You Could Read My Mind” and “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” Nudie & The Sundowners—featuring lead guitarist Bobby McIsaac, bassist Serge Bernard, and host Nudie on vocals and guitar— honour the music of Canadian troubadour Gordon Lightfoot in this musical production.

victoriaplayhouse.com

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Ellis Family Band and Fiddlers’ Sons at Harbourfront Theatre

The Ellis Family Band and Fiddlers’ Sons will be on stage at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on August 14.

The Ellis Family from Summerside, PEI, grew up immersed in music. The four brothers—Brian, Rick, Steve, and Dave—were exposed to a variety of genres from a young age. Their father, Russell Ellis, a renowned fiddle player and the founder of the band, introduced them to traditional “Island” fiddle music. This blend of fiddle music with 1970s popular music created a unique sound that endures in The Ellis Family Band’s live performances. They are joined by long-time family friend and collaborator Greg MacDonald.

The PEI folk music group Fiddlers’ Sons features storyteller, author, and three-time Music PEI Male Vocalist of the Year Eddy Quinn; singer-songwriter and guitarist John B. Webster; and dynamic Island fiddler

Archetype Trad

Folk music duo concert at Bonshaw Hall—Aug 2

Canadian Folk Music Awardnominated duo Archetype Trad will perform an evening of fiddle music, dance and songs at the Bonshaw Hall on August 2 at 7:30 pm.

Kate Bevan-Baker and Émilie Brûlé are Archetype Trad—a dynamic duo of fiddlers and violinists performing repertoire from Quebec and the Atlantic provinces. Highly original in nature, Archetype Trad combines tunes that are centuries old with modern compositions and arrangements. They have performed at many festivals across Quebec and Eastern Canada, and their album Explorer was nominated for a 2024 Canadian Folk Music Award in the category Instrumental Group of the Year.

The duo will be joined by Olivier Arseneault (dance and percussion) for this special performance, their only concert on PEI in 2024.

Admission is by donation and free for children under 12 years old. archetypetrad.com

An Evening with Elvis

Kings Playhouse—Aug 10

An Evening with Elvis: Celebrating The King’s Life returns to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on August 10 at 7:30 pm.

The show stars Jonah Anderson as Elvis and features Jennifer Carson and Marylynn Côté as The Fabulous Blue Suedettes.

Experience Jonah’s tribute to Elvis with professional backing tracks, harmonies, and yes, real hair and sideburns.

Advanced tickets can be booked by e-transfer to anderson_jonah@hotmail.com (include name in the subject line). Tickets can also be purchased (cash only) at the door (65 Grafton St, Georgetown).

Learn to sing “True Colors”

Island A Cappella, PEI’s only women’s chorus singing a cappella music in the barbershop style, is offering Island singers of all abilities a unique opportunity this fall. Starting September 18, participants in a special five-week workshop will join chorus members to learn and perform a unique arrangement of Cindy Lauper’s iconic pop hit “True Colors.”

“We want to emphasize that no prior formal singing experience is required to join us for this a cappella adventure,” shares Chorus President Brenda Smith.

The program will run each Wednesday night in the Lecture Hall at Charlottetown Rural High School. Preregistration is required due to limited space. To register, visit islandacappella. ca or call 902-213-4921. Once the registration fee has been paid, each participant will receive a copy of the sheet music and the audio learning tracks.

Nudie

Kate Bevan-Baker and Émilie Brûlé

With Island A Cappella

Island A Cappella Chorus

Jonah Anderson as Elvis

The Ellis Family Band (above) and Fiddlers’ Sons with Keelin Wedge

Dolly Parton Tribute

Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge, and Christine Cameron will perform their tribute to Dolly Parton at Trinity United in Summerside on August 18. Doors open at 1 pm, and showtime is at 2 pm.

Attendees will hear about the origins of the songs, what Parton’s music means to the performers, and may even learn some new facts about one of the most famous people on the planet.

Mooney is a homegrown singer/ songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with three albums to her credit, multiple Music PEI and ECMA Award nominations, and a Music PEI Country Music Recording of the Year Award. In addition to her solo projects, she is the lead singer of Lady Soul—the Island’s best nine-piece soul band.

Wedge and Cameron make up the Salt Water Dollies—an alternative folk duo with Celtic and traditional influences. Wedge is a well-known Island fiddler, Canadian recording artist, and multi-instrumentalist. Cameron is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for her creative harmonies.

Together, these three are a powerhouse of vocals, instruments, harmonies, and entertainment.

Tickets are available at the door or by calling 902-436-3155. A portion of the proceeds will go to the church, which is located at 90 Spring Street in Summerside.

Watermark music

Final two concerts of the summer series in August

The Watermark Music Series continues this month with themed nights of music curated by Sarah Segal-Lazar.

The final two concerts are: Canadian Greats with Lawrence Maxwell, Ava & Lily, and Clever

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Coming to PEI Brewing Company in November

Sommo Presents: Valley at the PEI Brewing Company on November 14.

Hopes on August 11, and The Brill Building: 60s Pop Hits with Joce Reyome, Ben Aitken, and Brielle Ansems on August 25.

Visit locarius.io/organizations/26 or call 902-963-3963 for tickets.

Valley is a JUNO Award-nominated Canadian indie pop band based out of Toronto, ON. The group carves out a distinct

niche with their eclectic mix of indie-pop, synth-pop, and alternative rock influences. peibrewingcompany.com

EXPLORE CHARLOTTETOWN AT YOUR OWN PACE with our downloadable self-guided walking tour. Discover hidden gems and historical sites on our 1.5 hour tour. Visit TourMyTownPEI.com to start your adventure today!

THE MOTHERZ OF CONFEDERATION. Keep an eye out for The Motherz of Confederation appearing and performing at random on a sidewalk or public space near you this summer!

With Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron

Dolly Parton

(L-R): Clever Hopes, Ava + Lily and Lawrence Maxwell perform on August 11

AUG 7-30

AUG 28

8779 Route 6, Cavendish

When it comes to ABBA, every song is a banger! Sing along with Julain Molnar, Kelley Mooney, Josée Boudreau, Izzy Serebrov and Craig Fair.

AUG 17

Juno-award-winning Wintersleep's indie-rock performance draws on seven albums worth of material, promising to be varied and bespoke, full of joy and surprise!

SEPT 21

Former lead singer /songwriter of the Barenaked Ladies, Steven Page is one of the most recognizable voices in music. His sixth solo album, Excelsior, showcases that songwriting skill and indelible voice.

Begonia has one of Canada’s most extraordinary voices and she has built a legion of fans at her legendary live shows, where her vocal prowess absolutely floors audiences.

A celebration of music, food, and drinks, featuring phenomenal global talent: Noah Kahan, Greta Van Fleet, Maren Morris, The Beaches, and more! Plus, live demos by celebrity chefs and cocktail masters on the Culinary Stage.

SEPT 13/14