The Buzz - May 2024

Heather Millar

Profile:

Craig Fair by Julie Bull

Rooted in music

After my chat with Craig Fair, it became clear that this multi-talented human could not be described merely by his technical and artistic abilities, of which there are many. The playful poet in me would like to call him Craig Fair: Creator Extraordinaire.

Involved in musical theatre since age 10, and playing music even earlier than that, Craig has essentially spent his entire life involved in stage productions. He lived and worked in various cities and was part of the Confederation Centre of the Arts Charlottetown Festival for 18 seasons, up until 2019. “I felt most at home in Charlottetown because of how much time I was here over the course of my adult life.”

After many years of being on the stage, Craig spent the decade before the pandemic behind the scenes in director and producer roles. “Then when my 40s came, I decided it was time to get

the Confederation Centre of the Arts and people were ready and willing to collaborate.”

By the end of 2021, Craig decided he would stay on PEI. “I realized that what I was missing was roots and that I could build those roots here.” As he continued to build roots and connections, Craig Fair Music Productions made a splash in the local music scene in 2022. In just two years, Craig has produced and performed in countless projects and brings dozens of local musicians, artists, and technicians together to make the shows happen. “I want to bring world-class entertainment to the stage here on PEI.”

“I have big dreams and I am working with phenomenal artists and musicians here on the Island to make those big dreams happen.” Craig carries the big picture view of the production in one hand and the details of the event in the other. Holding it all together, he creates spectacular shows that draw on the strengths of the entire team. “I love witnessing people learn and grow, and we are all constantly learning from each other on stage.

“I encourage musicians to bring their unique voice and style to the songs we’re performing. When it’s a cover of a popular song, people will have already heard many versions of it over time so it’s more important to elevate the song with our own personal flair. Our shows demonstrate that there are unique and new ways to perform the classics.”

back on the stage again.” Craig was based in Toronto and traveled all over for his work in the years before the pandemic. With the abrupt stop in live entertainment in 2020, he found himself contemplating his options and he made the move to PEI later that year. “I was ready to make a change, so I came back to PEI in an effort to feel rooted.”

For the first several months on the Island, he didn’t touch music. “I just needed a break and to allow myself to restore and reset.” Craig took the time needed to settle in and to decide where he would put his focus, which eventually led him back to music.

Craig’s first foray into the music scene here was Mixtape Nights at the Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown. As we all know, PEI is a relational province and our connections with each other are what make everything and anything possible. “I drew on my relationships from all those years with

A show by Craig Fair Music Productions is high energy, electric, and engaging. As an audience member, we are left in awe of what we have experienced. “At the end of every show, no matter the challenges or difficulties in getting there, we take a moment to recognize the magic we co-created in the space.”

Craig has found his footing by being authentically himself in the work that he does, and he shares that wisdom with others. “I want to continue encouraging other people to be fully themselves, on and off the stage.”

The collaborations and supports that Craig has built since living here continue to grow and flourish. “In this new chapter of my life, I get to choose who I work with, and I choose those who are joyous and respectful.”

With a full slate of incredible shows already scheduled for 2024, Craig is dreaming beyond this year into a future filled with world-class entertainment close to home, and he’s making those dreams come to life.

“I get to do what I love with the people I love in a place that I love.”

Breadalbane gallery

New opening with artist talk by Xin Liu

The next monthly group exhibition at the Breadalbane Gallery opens May 10 with a reception from 6 to 8 pm. Xin Liu (Leo), one of the exhibiting artists, will give a talk about his art at the event. All are welcome to attend.

Leo is a new resident to PEI, having arrived here just days before Hurricane Fiona. His art training was in China and his work bridges the gap between East and West, evoking both cultures through his use of colour and brushwork. He has done a number of paintings of hockey games—a sport new to his family and embraced by his young son. The works effectively convey the energy, movement and excitement of the game. Leo also did a series of paintings about Fiona—highly personal visions that show the light, winds and destruction. His work is constantly evolving, nurtured by his appreciation of his new home.

The Island Aglow

Pastel artwork by Kimberly Roach at Eptek

The Breadalbane Gallery is a casual community space located at

4023 Dixon Road. A new show opens on the second Friday of each month. The opening receptions are an opportunity for the public to speak with artists about their work. Gallery artists include Silver Frith, Zoe Novaczek, Haley Lewis, Will Baker, Joan Sutton, Denise Livingstone, Mariannne Janowicz, Adrianna Chandler, Vian Emery, Xin Liu (Leo), Patricia Lush, Sabine Nuesch, Yuzhu Yang, Erin Veitch and Laura Bain.

The Time of Our Lives

PEI Seniors College art show at Hilda Woolnough Gallery

The Guild presents The Time of Our Lives, artwork by PEI Seniors College students and instructors, at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery from May 8–28. All are welcome to the opening reception on May 8 at 7 pm.

The Time of Our Lives features work from all of the art classes, including watercolour, acrylic, drawing and multimedia. This is the 12th year for this group show, with some old favourites exhibiting and lots of new faces

as well. Many of the pieces will be for sale.

Seniors College is open to anyone over 50 and is a great opportunity to learn something new on a wide variety of topics. The camaraderie among the students adds a lot to the enjoyment. A full list of Seniors College courses, schedules and descriptions is available at seniorscollege.ca.

The Gallery at The Guild is located at 111 Queen Street in Charlottetown.

The Island Aglow by Kimberly Roach is on view at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside.

This collection of new pastel artwork reflects the artist’s love and appreciation of her Island home, wildflowers, and the beauty of PEI’s natural landscapes.

The Island Aglow is on display in the lobby at Eptek from May 1–31.

SUBMITTED

Artwork by Kimberly Roach

SUBMITTED

Beep! The Start Moment Of A Hockey Game by Xin Liu

(L–R): Kool Kitty, Acrylic by Carol MacKinnon; Robin Egg Blue, Mixed Media by Lorraine Thomas; Shimmering Dragonfly, Mixed Media by Fred Gill

Last call on the wall

Exhibitions closing this month

Solitude

Promise Ojo

Until May 5

Hilda Woolnough Gallery, Charlottetown

Ensemble:

Music and Sounds of the Island

Until May 6

Downtown Charlottetown

An outdoor lightbox exhibit presented by the City of Charlottetown showcases the artistic talent of 15 Island-based artists, including Agate Hoffmann-Dousset, Andrew Lewis, Ashley Anne Clark, Duncan Brooks, Gloria Wooldridge, Jen DesRoche, Josiane Vlitos, Karen Gallant, Katelynn Hicks, Kels Smith, Kristen Campbell,

Wisqoq (Black Ash) is a tree species specially adapted to grow in water-saturated soils. Once plentiful, Wisqoq graced the banks of rivers and wet forests across the Maritimes and throughout Turtle Island. For millennia Wisqoq has been harvested by the Mi’kmaq for basketry, canoe construction and much more, but are now in decline due to climate change-induced environmental stressors. Climate Artist-in-Residence Elder Francis Jadis is Mi’kmaw from Abegweit First Nation and comes from a family of basket makers. He has been harvesting Wisqoq in Northern Maine his whole life, but his ability to do so has become increasingly complicated due to climate change. This solo exhibition showcases a collection of intricately woven baskets displayed alongside family photographs, highlighting the rich tradition of skill-sharing and storytelling inherent in basket weaving. Through this visual narrative, Jadis underscores the interconnectedness of families and communities fostered by the diminishing Wisqoq, serving as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard both cultural heritage and the environment. This exhibition was curated by Alexis Bulman.

Circulations

Doug Dumais

Until May 25

TD Art Corridor at Charlottetown Library

From 1933 to 1936, Nora Bateson, a librarian hired by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, journeyed across PEI to establish the foundations of a regional library system. Before 1933, the Island had only three

libraries. Thanks to Bateson’s advocacy and the significant community support she received, by 1936, there were 22. Nearly 90 years later, PEI photographer Doug Dumais repeated Bateson’s travels, photographing all 25 PEI libraries. The exhibition presents seven images from these journeys overlaid with text, stickers and labels from scans of book jackets borrowed from the library system. The pairings are either thematic, historical, or political. The images unveil the uniqueness and adaptability of each library, highlighting their significance within their respective communities. Transformed into visual narratives resembling book covers, Dumais’ photographs compel viewers to look beyond surfaces, suggesting that libraries are not just places but texts that reflect the history and community they serve. Dumais will give an Artist Talk and tour on May 23 from 5–7 pm.

Here and There: A Journey in Colour

Sheila Forsyth

Until May 31

Lefurgey Cultural Centre, Summerside

PEI artist Sheila Forsyth’s solo exhibition explores the subjects and colours of the places and spaces that have inspired her from across PEI and around the world. Forsyth invites viewers to come on a journey of exploration with her to enjoy colourful fishing sheds, bright buildings, sea rocks and arches, happy harbours, beaches, and more. Forsyth primarily works in oils, along with linocut printmaking, silk dyes, and mixed media. This exhibition is part of the Sixty Days of Fame series.

Fish Sheds by Sheila Forsyth

PEI Photo Club

Annual show at Hilda Woolnough Gallery

The PEI Photo Club’s annual show will be held this year from June 3–17 at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery @ The Guild. A celebratory reception will be held on June 8 at 3 pm. Showcasing the work of their many talented members, each participant in the show will present a series of photographs on a theme and in a style of their choice. No judging, no winners—just an exhibition of what they are all about.

The annual print show is an opportunity for PEI Photo Club members to express their individual interests and skills as photographers. With the diverse interests of photographers in the Club, the show is sure to provide something for everyone. Club member Lynne F. Murphy is inspired by her surroundings—nature, ocean and seasonal changes at Covehead Bay. Her images are achieved in camera using a variety of techniques such as intentional camera movement and multiple exposures, which results in more painterly or abstract images. Club member David Weintraub focuses on abandoned structures, showing how nature reclaims the buildings back to basic elements. His images provide a peek into the past by illustrating the remnants of rural architecture.

This year’s show will again include short video entries, providing a showcase for the work of members who are venturing into exciting new territory and going beyond still photography.

Roam 2024

Roam 2024, new works by David Garcia Jimenez, will be on view at Ellen’s Creek Gallery from May 11–31.

David Garcia Jimenez is a traditional painter who uses acrylic as his main medium. Growing up in Charlottetown, David developed a great appreciation for the city, and as a result, he has accrued dozens and dozens of works depicting its scenery.

As a tourist destination, Charlottetown has cultivated an idyllic image for itself which David has chosen to ignore. Instead, he opts to capture what is not seen in popular brochures—wet streets during a rainfall, mounds of snow during the winter, or streetlights that affect their surroundings with their

the Bay”

Visit peiphotoclub.com or theguildpei.com/gallery for more information.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

David Weintraub “Forgotten but not gone” (above); Lynne F. Murphy “Across

glow. David’s main goal is to not just paint Charlottetown, but to document the ever-changing city.

Ellen’s Creek Gallery & Framing is located at 525 North River Road in Charlottetown.

New works by David Garcia Jimenez at Ellen’s Creek Gallery

The Marquee by David Garcia Jimenez

EXHIBITS

galleries, museums...

Acadian Museum of PEI

Acadiennes: Voix de la Génération Silencieuse/Voices of the Silent Generation opens May 5 at 2 pm. All are welcome. The exhibition will be on view until the end of June. Visit the permanent exhibit and video The Island Acadians: The Story of a People. Acadian genealogy resources are available to researchers and a new artifacts exhibit area opened last year. 23 Main Dr. E, Miscouche.

Blank Canvas

PaperWorks by Deb Murphy will be on view from May 14–27. Open daily from Tuesday–Sunday; closed on Mondays in May. 10 Prince St, Charlottetown.

Breadalbane Gallery

Gallery artists will open their monthly group exhibition on May 10 with a reception from 6–8 pm featuring an artist talk by Xin Liu (Leo). All are welcome. Artists include Silver Frith, Zoe Novaczek, Haley Lewis, Will Baker, Joan Sutton, Denise Livingstone, Mariannne Janowicz, Adrianna Chandler, Vian Emery, Xin Liu (Leo), Patricia Lush, Sabine Nuesch, Yuzhu Yang, Erin Veitch and Laura Bain. Artists wishing to show can submit photos of their work to breadalbane.gallery@gmail.com.

Open 11 am–3 pm Tuesday, 9 am–1 pm Wednesday and 4–8 pm Thursday. 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.

Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation

Wisqoq, The Basket Tree, a solo exhibition by Climate Artist-in-Residence Elder Francis Jadis is on view until May 7. The gallery is open weekly on Fridays from 9:30 am–4 pm in St. Peter’s Bay. To book a group tour or school field trip, email alexis@creativepei.ca.

Charlottetown Library Learning Centre

Circulations by Doug Dumais is on view until May 25. Dumais will give an Artist Talk and tour on May 23 from 5–7 pm. Presented by this town is small. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Confederation Centre Art Gallery

The future is _______ , featuring works from the graduating classes of Holland College’s Fundamental Arts, Graphic Design, Photography and Videography, and Video Game Art and Animation programs, is on view until May 12. ArtsSmarts, a group exhibition featuring the work of PEI students and educators will open May 18, with an open house in the Gallery Concourse on May 22 at 6 pm. Donald Andrus: A Retrospective is on view until May 19. Mn’tu wikk ti!, featuring artists Sandra Racine, Barry Pottle, Melissa Peter-Paul, Nancy Oakley, Jerry Evans, Jeremy Dutcher, Charles Doucette and Patricia Bourque, is on view until June 9. An exhibition reception for Mn’tu wikk ti! will be held on May 30 at 7 pm. The Sweet Spot is on view until January 2025. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown.

Cornwall Library Art Gallery

The Spring Group Art Show continues until May 3. Lindy Nichols’ photographic exhibit Architecture: [ahr-ki-tek-cher], It’s all about finding the right angle will be on view from May 7–June 14. Meet the artist at the opening reception on May 7 at 7 pm. Open 1–8:30 pm Tuesday–Wednesday, and 9:30 am–12:30 pm and 1–5:30 pm Thursday–Saturday. 15 Mercedes Dr, Town Hall, Cornwall.

Creative Rebel Studio

Patrick Guindon’s Beatles Collection will be on view May 25 from 5–9 pm and May 26 from 12–4 pm. 538 Main St, Montague.

Ellen’s Creek Gallery

Roam 2024, new works by David Garcia Jimenez, will be on view from May 11–31. 525 North River Rd, Charlottetown

Eptek Art & Culture Centre

The Island Aglow by Kimberly Roach is on view in the lobby from May 1–31.

A Retrospective of the Folk Art of Kerras Jeffery, featuring works by Kerras Trent Jeffery (1966–2017) is on view in the main gallery until May 17. ArtsSmarts, a group exhibition featuring the work of PEI students and educators will be on view from May 21–June 2, with an opening reception on May 28 from 5–8 pm. Visit the permanent exhibition on the history and architecture of Summerside. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Hilda Woolnough Gallery

Promise Ojo’s exhibition Solitude is on view until May 5. The Time of Our Lives, featuring artwork by PEI Seniors College students and instructors will be on view from May 8–28. All are welcome to the opening reception on May 8 at 7 pm. The PEI Photo Club’s annual show runs from June 3–7. A reception will be held on June 8 at 3 pm. The Guild, 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Lefurgey Cultural Centre

Sheila Forsyth’s Here and There: A Journey in Colour is on view as part of the Sixty Days of Fame series until May 31. Open on weekdays. Admission is free. 205 Prince St, Summerside.

The future is

Holland College School of Visual Arts student showcase

Graduating classes from Holland College’s Fundamental Arts, Graphic Design, Photography and Videography, and Video Game Art and Animation programs are holding their annual showcase at Confederation Centre of the Arts. The group exhibition is on view in the Frederic S. and Ogden Martin Concourse Gallery until May 12.

In the past, the students in the School of Visual Arts programs were encouraged to select a theme for their annual show; but this year, the instructors took a slightly different approach. On a snowy day in January, the students were asked to complete a short survey designed to capture their current mood and see where they would place themselves on a spectrum of happiness, recognizing that the results are neither good nor bad, but reflected how the students felt that day.

April Condon, an instructor in the Graphic Design program, said the exhibition exemplifies the individuality of the School of Visual Arts students.

They were then asked to visualize what the future might look like. Their solutions could be personal and introspective, or they could look outwardly at the world to create images that reflect their vision of what the future would be like in a couple of weeks, months, years, or even millennia. The titles of each piece are adjectives chosen by the students to describe the future as they imagined it. The resulting work is featured in the showcase, appropriately named: The future is _______

ArtsSmarts

Student art projects showcased in Charlottetown and Summerside

The creative achievements of students and educators across PEI will be showcased in ArtsSmarts exhibitions at two prominent Island venues this spring.

Throughout the 2023-2024 academic year, the GénieArtsSmarts program facilitated collaborative art projects involving four Early Years Centres, eleven schools, and fourteen local artists. This innovative initiative brought together artists and educators to enhance curriculum through artistic exploration, fostering creativity and enriching learning experiences.

The resulting artworks will be showcased at the Confederation Centre

“Our students are naturally very observant and often sensitive to the world around them. Reflecting on how we feel in this moment and what we think the future might be is important for anyone. It’s an opportunity to question the future and a collective showcase of imagination. Our soon-to-be graduates are expressing themselves through paintings, photography, illustrations, and 3D renderings, and I am excited to see their work on display,” Admission is free.

Art Gallery in Charlottetown from May 18–June 9, with an open house in the Gallery Concourse on May 22 at 6 pm, and at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside from May 21–June 2, with an opening reception on May 28 from 5–8 pm.

Collaborating with local artists, artisans and knowledge keepers, each class has produced a project showcasing the knowledge students gained through studying and learning a variety of creative media and traditional crafts. These exhibitions celebrate the transformative impact of integrating arts into education, highlighting the talents and perspectives of Island youth.

GénieArtsSmarts, the largest education initiative of its kind in Canada, is dedicated to improving the lives and learning capacity of Canadian children by injecting arts into academic programs.

(L–R): Graduating students from Holland College’s SoVA programs Chase Murphy, Valerie Duguay, Sara Lee and Donell Lloyd

Fix Your Plate by Tara Reeves

Reading food labels

Confused by the numbers and words on food labels? You’re certainly not alone! Understanding food labels is a key skill for making healthy choices about what you eat. This information will help you decipher the nutrition facts and make informed decisions about the food you eat.

Think of food labels as tiny instruction manuals on your food. The first step? Serving size. This number reveals exactly how much food the information on the label refers to. It could be a cup, half a package, or even just one piece. Why is this crucial? Because sometimes an entire box might seem like one serving, but the label might be talking about just a small handful. Big difference, right?

sodium can make your body hold onto extra water, and negatively affect your blood pressure.

FOOD & DRINK

St Pius X CWL Coffee Party

The St Pius X Catholic Women’s League Coffee Party will be held on May 11 from 9:30–11:30 am in the MacKenzie Room. There will be gluten free options available, a 50/50 draw and door prizes. Proceeds from ticket sales will go to local charities. 106 St Peters Rd #34, Charlottetown.

Take-out roast beef dinner

Trinity United is offering a take-out roast beef dinner on May 11 with pick up between 4:30–5:30 pm at the Sydney St entrance. The menu includes roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, turnip, carrots, peas, Yorkshire pudding and lemon cake with cream cheese icing for dessert. Tickets must be purchased in advance at trinitycliftonunitedchurch@gmail.com or 902-892-4114. The church is located at 220 Richmond St, Charlottetown.

Hilda Ramsay Fundraiser

The NDP PEI Women’s Committee Hilda Ramsay Fundraiser will be held on June 14 and will feature special guest, Canadian Labour Congress President, Bea Bruske. This year’s fundraiser will be held at the Beaconsfield Carriage House with a reception at 6 pm, and a roving buffet at 7 pm. The event will include live and silent auctions. For tickets, visit ndppei.ca. The Hilda Ramsay fund was created to encourage Island women to run as NDP PEI candidates. The fund assists with campaign expenses and supplements fundraising efforts. The objective is to disburse up to $1000 to each female candidate who runs a full and active campaign. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Annual Village Feast

All food labels are written in a standard way that clearly outlines the key information in the package. This includes calories, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and sodium. Calories are units of energy that provide fuel for your body’s essential functions throughout the day. Fat, carbohydrates, and protein are your body’s energy sources, each with a specific job to do. Dietary fiber aids in and promotes regularity in the digestive system. Protein helps build strong muscles and bones, and sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining electrolyte balance within the body.

When it comes to fats, there are a few different kinds in our food and not all of them are created equal. The label will break down total fat into saturated fat, trans fat, and unsaturated fat. Saturated and trans fats should only be consumed in very limited amounts, while unsaturated fats are the good fats that help keep your heart healthy.

Carbohydrates are another important group. Total carbohydrates include starches and sugars. Dietary fiber, a type of carbohydrate, is very helpful for our digestive system. Always be mindful of the sugar content, as excessive consumption of sugars can have negative health consequences. Look out for added sugars, which are sugars put into the food, not the natural ones already there.

Finally, there’s sodium, which is necessary for our body to function, however it can become problematic if too much is consumed. Too much

So, how do we use this information to make healthy choices? Each nutrient has a Daily Value (DV) listed next to it. This is like a target number that tells you how much of that nutrient you might need in a day (based on an adult’s needs). So, if a food has 10% DV of sodium, it means it has a small amount of sodium, when considering the recommended intake, for the day.

The most important thing is to use this information to choose foods that fit your goals. Want to build strong muscles? Look for foods that are high in protein. Want a steady stream of energy throughout the day? Choose foods with complex carbohydrates and healthy fats.

By using this information, you will be able to understand what you are actually eating and you will be able to make better and more informed choices in the grocery store!

The

Heavenly Feast

St. Paul’s will host The Heavenly Feast—A Divine Fundraiser Gala Dinner on May 16 from 6:30–8:30 pm. “Angels” will treat guests to a three-course meal in a “heavenly” venue (a transformed parish hall). Only 100 tickets will be sold with a charitable receipt component. Tickets are available at stpauls@pei.aibn. com or 902-892-1691. Visit sites.google. com/site/stpaulschurchsite/the-heavenly-feast to learn more. 101 Prince St, Charlottetown.

Evening of the Stars

This year’s Evening of the Stars Gala Dinner and Auction will be held at 6 pm on May 17 at the Delta Prince Edward in Charlottetown. All proceeds raised will go to the Stars for Life Foundation to provide vital day programming and residential services to adults on the autism spectrum on PEI. Info: paige@starsforlife. com or 902-894-9286.

The 16th annual Village Feast in Souris will be held on July 7 at its new home, the Souris Regional School Grounds. Support the work of Farmers Helping Farmers. Money raised goes towards community projects in Souris helping kids and families, as well as school gardens and cookhouses in Kenya. Farmers Helping Farmers is an Island-based organization of globally minded people. The group’s goal is to assist Kenyan farmers in becoming more self-reliant in agricultural food production, and their work with dairies, women’s groups, schools and farmers has been ongoing since 1980. Visit farmershelpingfarmers. ca or follow @farmershelpingfarmers to learn more. Visit villagefeast.ca/tickets-1 to reserve tickets.

SUBMITTED

Kerras Jeffery

Folk artist remembered at Eptek Art & Culture Centre

A Retrospective of the Folk Art of Kerras Jeffery is on display in the main gallery at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside until May 17.

Whether it’s the double-headed pig carvings, iconic bucket ladies, buoy fish, wily wide-mouthed fox, or any of his other hand-carved characters, Kerras Trent Jeffery (1966–2017) was known for his creative, playful spirit.

Jeffery was one of the leading folk artists of his generation in Eastern Canada and operated Back Road Folk Art in Alma, PEI, for 20 years. All of his creations were made from repurposed materials,

Beatles Collection

Weekend art exhibit by Patrick Guindon on view

Artist Patrick Guindon is celebrating the release of his long-awaited Beatles Collection this month with an exhibition showing for two days only at Creative Rebel Studio in Montague (538 Main Street).

This new collection, on view May 25 from 5–9 pm and May 26 from 12–4 pm, features new and vibrant expressionist floral works, each inspired and informed by songs by The Beatles— an exploration of movement, shape, colour, and emotion driven by the music and lyrics.

Along with Beatles Collection, Guindon’s current body of works will be on display and available for purchase. patrickguindon.com

and his playful sculptures continue to be collected across Canada and internationally.

PaperWorks

PaperWorks, a 26-piece art show featuring works by PEI artist Deb Murphy, will be on view at Blank Canvas from May 14–27.

Murphy will present pieces ranging from 4x4” self-contained boxes to 24x36” wall art—all constructed using highly textured and colourful papers. The artist tears, shapes and combines multiple layers of paper to create rich art. Using a binding medium and protective coating, Murphy seals and showcases her unique and innovative creations. All are ready for hanging.

Blank Canvas, located at 10 Prince Street in Charlottetown, is open daily from Tuesday–Sunday.

blankcanvasartsypplies.ca

Painting by Patrick Guindon

Kerras Jeffery with a collection of his folk art

SUBMITTED

Deb Murphy art show at Blank Canvas in Charlottetown

Artwork by Deb Murphy

CAMPS

Visual Arts PD Day camp

Budding young artists can explore the visual arts through the Visual Arts PD Day Camp on May 3 at Confederation Centre of the Arts. Students will be taken through a combination of guided and open-ended activities in painting, sculpture, drawings, and more. To register, visit confederationcentre.com or contact the box office.

Summer

camps at Confed Registration is now open for summer camps at Confederation Centre of the Arts. A wide variety of summer camps are on offer from July 2–August 23 for youth ages 4–17, including musical theatre, animation, dance, visual arts, Shakespearean theatre, and more. To register, visit confederationcentre.com or contact the box office.

Poem correction

In April’s poetry column, we didn’t have Dave Hickey’s poem formatted correctly. Here’s how it should look.

CLOTHESLINE

When your favourite shirt reaches out to greet you, it’s like a more comfortable version of yourself has offered its sleeve, stripped of everything and at ease with the angles it recedes to. I step forward when the clothesline leans back, and wait for prevailing winds to drape me in their directions. All week

I’ve been pinned to what others send my way, and I want to excuse what the indoor world has made of me, resume my rightful place among these restless sculptures of polyester and cotton. The clothesline shoulders them, holds the house to the tree, places my whole family under its care, arms open to our every imperfection. Where else can you sit and watch socks take flight, swirl off with the ambition of early aviators who hoped, if only for a while, to fly by chute or sail? They took to the sky, then fell to earth, so that’s where I choose to leave them.

—Dave Hickey

EXPLORE THE GALLERY

MAY GALLERY EVENTS

Seniors Art Activities - THURSDAY, MAY 9 AT 10 A.M.

Join us for an introduction to our current exhibitions followed by an art-making activity. Tea, coffee, and snacks will be provided. Cost is $10.00 per person.

Guided Gallery Tour - THURSDAY, MAY 9 AT 12 P.M.

Visual Arts Educator Andreas Fobes will provide insights into the gallery’s current exhibitions, with a focus on The Sweet Spot.

ArtsSmarts Exhibition - MAY 18 – JUNE 9

Features work created by students from schools across Prince Edward Island.

Open House: Wednesday, May 22 at 6-8 p.m.

Mn’tu wikk ti! Reception - THURSDAY, MAY 30 AT 7 P.M.

The public is welcome to attend a reception to celebrate Mn’tu wikk ti!

NEW EXHIBITION

Mn’tu wikk ti!

LOWER EAST GALLERY | ONLY UNTIL JUNE 9

A group show featuring work by Indigenous artists related to gathering, histories, and culinary heritage. Food brings us together; what happens next?

Jerry Evans, Mimajuaqne’kati (Place of Life), 2019, lithograph on Somerset 100% rag paper, 76.2 ×

Petapan 2024 First Light Symposium

LOUISE VESSEY

CREATIVE

Creative PEI Art Hive Pop-up

Creative PEI Art Hive Pop-ups take place on Wednesdays from 5–7 pm on May 1 and 15 at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. Drop in to make art and chit chat. Supplies are provided or bring a current project. 97 Queen St., Charlottetown.

Seniors Tinkercad workshop

Seniors will be introduced to the basics of 3D digital design for 3D printing using Tinkercad in a hands-on workshop at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. The workshop runs from 10 am–12 noon on Thursdays for four weeks, May 2–23. Registration is required in advance via phone at 902-368-4642 or in person at 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Crafty Kids

The next Crafty Kids session at the Summerside Rotary Library is called May The Fourth Be With You and will feature multiple activities for children to have Star Wars themed fun. The session will take place on May 3 from 1–3 pm. 57 Central St.

Life drawing sessions

Life drawing sessions are held on Sundays from 2–4 pm at the Gertrude Cotton Art Centre, unless otherwise posted @LifeDrawingPEI on FB. 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. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford.

Fibre Arts Club

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

Crafternoon Wednesday

The next Crafternoon Wednesday takes place on May 8 at 1 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. This month, create squeegee painting canvasses. All supplies are provided. Register in advance via phone at 902-368-4642 or in person at 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Seniors Arts Activities

Seniors Arts Activities at Confederation Centre of the Arts are held one Thursday a month from 10 am–12 pm. Visit the Gallery for an introduction to current exhibitions followed by an art-making activity in the Schurman Family Studio. Tea, coffee, and snacks are provided. The next session is May 9. To register, visit confederationcentre.com or contact the box office.

Book Page Flowers

Visit the Summerside Rotary Library for a crafting and social hour. Transform old books into beautiful bouquets of flowers at one of the Book Page Flowers sessions on May 13 at 6 pm or May 15 at 2 pm. Register by calling the library at 902-4367323. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Arts & Crafts

The next Arts & Crafts event for children at the Summerside Rotary Library is Garden Mobiles on May 18 at 10:30 am. Kids are invited to have fun with arts and crafts while they create a mobile for their garden using old CDs. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Makers Session

The next Makers Session at the Eptek Gallery in Summerside will be held on May 26 from 1–3 pm. Makers can gather up their latest project, or one they’ve been meaning to start, and join other makers for an afternoon session. Catch up with friends, meet new people, and see what other makers are creating. This event is free and all are welcome. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Cricut Tech Help

Want help with a Cricut project but don’t know where to start? The Charlottetown Library learning Centre can help. Sign up for an appointment time by emailing charlottetown@gov.pe.ca, bring supplies and projects, and learn how to get started. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

ARTS

Artisans Waterfront jury

Artisans Waterfront, an artist run gallery at 1 Station St, Montague, will be holding a jury session on May 1 for new members for their 2024 season. They are currently seeking three dimensional crafts (pottery, leather, woodworking, artisanal foods and glass) but do encourage all artists and artisans who are looking for an opportunity to showcase their talent to apply. Visit artisanswaterfront.ca for membership info, application guidelines and jury instructions.

Tour CCOA with Andreas Fobes

Yoon,

From

Join visual arts educator Andreas Fobes at Confederation Centre Art Gallery (CCOA) on May 9 at 12 pm for a free tour of current exhibitions, including The Sweet Spot. The exhibition features a selection of works from CCOA’s permanent collection that aim for that elusive place or moment that finds just the right balance between order and possibility, the ideal distance between intimacy and perspective, between freedom and generosity. It is the perfect jump shot or musical note. It takes practice and yet must be improvised. It is always moving, and never known in advance. Curated by Pan Wendt, it features artists such as Scotiabank Photography Award winner Jin-me Yoon, Jocelyn Alloucherie, Michael Fernandes, and Graeme Patterson.

Artist talk with Xin Liu

Xin Liu (Leo) will give an Artist Talk during this month’s show opening reception on May 10 from 6–8 pm at the Breadalbane Gallery. Xin Liu captures the essence of both Eastern and Western culture in his work. Other exhibiting artists include Silver Frith, Zoe Novaczek, Haley Lewis, Will Baker, Joan Sutton, Denise Livingstone, Mariannne Janowicz, Adrianna Chandler, Vian Emery, Patricia Lush, Sabine Nuesch, Yuzhu Yang, Erin Veitch and Laura Bain. 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.

Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild

The Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild meets on the third Wednesday of each month (except July, August and December)

from 7–9 pm at the Benevolent Irish Society in Charlottetown. This is a scent free meeting. New members and visitors are welcome. For more info, contact Roberta at 902-393-3222 or follow @ KindredSpiritsQuiltGuildofPEI on FB for updates. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

PEI Modern Quilt Guild

The PEI Modern Quilt Guild meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7–9 pm. If interested in attending a meeting as a guest or for inquiries, contact peimqg@gmail.com. Info: @peimqg on IG

Art talk and tour with Doug Dumais

Join this town is small at the Charlottetown Library for an artist talk and tour with Doug Dumais on May 23 from 5–7 pm. Circulations by Doug Dumais is the current exhibition in the library’s art corridor. The artist talk will begin at 5:30 pm and light refreshments will be provided. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and tour the exhibition. Circulations features seven photographic works from Dumais’ travels to all 25 of PEI’s libraries overlaid with text, stickers, and labels from scans of book jackets borrowed from the library system. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

This town is small’s space report is now

available

“Imagining a space for this town is small: a space needs assessment” is a document that shares the research and findings from the space needs assessment process that was undertaken by this town is small, a PEI artist-run centre, from March to November 2023. Through this process, this town is small (TTIS) has set a new facility goal: to create an affordable, sustainable, and accessible home for TTIS that enhances programming, unifies community, and increases visibility. The document includes: an organizational assessment of TTIS; an external scan; facility models; identifying space needs and wants; building an inclusive, accessible and community-led space; visioning a way forward; space availability and affordability; key next steps; and more. Visit thistownissmall.com/space-project to read the full report.

Mn’tu wikk ti! exhibition reception at CCOA

The public is invited to attend a reception for Mn’tu wikk ti! at 7 pm on May 30 at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery. The exhibition features works from Indigenous artists that are related to gathering, histories, and culinary heritage. Artists Sandra Racine, Barry Pottle, Melissa PeterPaul, Nancy Oakley, Jerry Evans, Jeremy Dutcher, Charles Doucette, and Patricia Bourque have considered food culture in their artwork through many mediums, including ceramics, porcupine quillwork, photography, ash basketry, and music production. The event is free to attend and no registration is required.

CHARLOTTETOWN JUNE 20 - 23 FIND

YOGA & FITNESS SESSIONS

WELLNESS WORKSHOPS

ON-THE-WATER ACTIVITIES

GUIDED MEDITATIONS

CULINARY EVENTS

5K RAINBOW RUN

UNIQUE VENUES

DANCE PARTIES

Jin-me

Touring Home

Away (Sacred Land, Golf Course), 1998/2000, ed. 1/3, chromogenic print on paper, diptych. Gift of the artist in honour and in memory of Keptin John Joe Sark, 2023. (CAG 2023.9 a,b)

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 $11.00

Member $8.00

65 and over $ 8.00

14 and under $ 8.00

We now accept credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema Annual membership - $25.00

You Can Call Me Bill

April 29–30

14A, language, mature content. Dir: Alexandre O. Philippe, US, 2023, 96 min. William Shatner.

“Captain Kirk. T.J. Hooker. Denny Crane. Big Giant Head. Alexander the Great. Henry V. Priceline’s Negotiator. These are but a handful of the innumerable masks worn by William Shatner over seven extraordinary decades onstage and in front of the camera. A peerless maverick thespian, electrifying performer, and international cultural treasure, Bill (as he prefers to be called), now 91 years young, is the living embodiment of his classic line ‘to boldly go where no man has gone before.; In unprecedented fashion, You Can Call Me Bill strips away all the masks he has worn to embody countless characters, revealing the man behind it all.” —Letterboxd

One Life

May 1–7

PG, mature theme. Dir: James Hawes, UK, 2023, 110 min. Anthony Hopkins, Lena Olin, Jonathan Pryce, Helena Bonham Carter.

“Anthony Hopkins is in sterling form in this moving biographical drama. He plays humanitarian Nicholas Winton, whose exploits in Czechoslovakia before the Second World War would see him later dubbed the ‘British Schindler’. We meet Nicholas as a young London stockbroker, whose visit to Prague in 1938 not only inspires him to help evacuate refugee Jewish children before the Nazis arrive, but also find homes for them in Britain. A race against time ensues and Winton saves hundreds of lives, but he spends the following decades uncelebrated and blaming himself for not doing more. It’s here that Hopkins takes centre stage, as an old leather suitcase unlocks memories that will eventually lead Winton to a life-changing appearance on the BBC’s That’s Life! show in 1988. Hopkins’s

subtle, emotionally powerful performance grounds the film, and he’s aided by classy support from Lena Olin, Helena Bonham Carter and his Two Popes co-star Jonathan Pryce.” —Jeremy Aspinall, Radio Times (UK)

Star Wars: Episode IVA New Hope

May 4, 2 pm

G. Dir: George Lucas, US, 1977, 121 min. Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill.

The Old Oak

May 8, 9 & 11–15

14A, strong language, mature themes. Dir: Ken Loach, UK, 2023, 113 min. Trevor Fox, Debbie Honeywood, Dave Turner, Ebla Mari. In English and Arabic with English subtitles.

Audience Award Winner at the Ghent, Calgary, Locarno & Valladolid International Film Festivals & Cinéfest Sudbury.

“Anyone who wants to understand the causes of right-wing populism need look no further than Ken Loach’s new film. It’s about the sense of grievance which can fester in a community once it’s lost its reason for being… In the opening scenes a group of Syrian refugee families are being delivered to their new homes in a village in the UK’s north-east and things are not going well. Once part of a thriving coal-mining region, the village is in decline… and some vociferous locals have gathered to express their resentment... One of the few friendly faces belongs to T.J. Ballantyne, owner of The Old Oak, the village’s only pub, which is barely surviving… The kindness he shows to Yara, a young Syrian refugee, and her family blossoms into a friendship... His courage costs him. He faces a couple of devastating blows before things begin to look up for him and the Syrian families, but Loach’s faith in the human capacity for empathy prevails in the end. Best of all, he

brings off this optimistic flourish without the taint of sentimentality... An immensely moving film.” —Sandra Hall, Sydney Morning Herald

Vishtèn

Connexions

Album Release: Expansion

May 10, 6 pm

Dir: Millefiore Clarkes, Canada, 2023. Cinematic Preview: Vishtèn Connexions Unveils Expansion

Tickets: $15; with a signed CD $34; and with signed Vinyl $54. Doors open at 5:30 pm.

Join us at the cinema for an exclusive preview event featuring Vishtèn Connexions’ upcoming album, Expansion. Be the first to experience the music through a captivating film presentation, including visuals, music videos, and exclusive content. Directed and edited by Millefiore Clarkes, the presentation promises to transport you into the heart of Vishtèn Connexions’ world. Meet the band and special guests, and immerse yourself in the magic of Expansion before the its release on May 24th.

Jamison England Presents: The Wicked, The Damned and Horrifying Mind of Jamison England

May 10, 8:30 pm

Unrated, mature content. Dir: Jamison England, Canada, 2023, 40 min + Q&A. Michael Gaddess, Nicholas Riley, Amy McLean, Matthew Calder, Ryerson England, Isaac Morrison, Nicholas Reeves.

All seats $10. Doors open at 8 pm.

Join us as we venture into the many terrifying horrors from writer and director Jamison England. From The Monster Outside The Closet, a story capturing a conversation between a child and serial killer, Food for the Heart with its vintage yet horrifying aesthetic of a mother cooking for her family, Restoration bringing the concept of Frankenstein to a new analog level, and Dear ****, showcasing a serial killer tape to taunt the world. All FOUR of these short films will be brought to you on the big screen alongside a Q&A and a glimpse at what’s next from the director.

May the Fourth be with you!

The People’s Joker

May 16–19

14A, coarse language, cartoon violence, substance abuse. Dir: Vera Drew, US, 2024, 92 min. Vera Drew, Griffin Kramer, Lynn Downey, Kane Distler, Nathan Faustyn.

“You should believe the hype. The People’s Joker is a fearless, gloriously funny, and moving act of cinematic anarchy… It follows Joker the Harlequin as she recounts her life story. We hear about her hazy childhood in Smallville, Kansas, where she aspires to escape the grip of her emotionally abusive and oblivious mother and make it to Gotham… She starts an alt-comedy club with her castmate, the Penguin. There she comes into her own, working with other familiar villains and creates a found family… However, no hero’s journey is without its challenges, and Joker has to go through a lot to reach self-actualization. This honesty and emotionally grounded nature is a part of what makes The People’s Joker such an essential watch. It’s funny (of course), but deeply vulnerable and genuine, too… As if that weren’t enough, it looks cool as hell too! The film features a wild, engaging mix of styles… with over 100 artists contributing background art and animations for the film. The whole movie is a loving mix of styles and influences… that work together to create something anarchic, vital, and wholly unique.” —Alejandra Martinez, The Austin Chronicle

Sherlock Holmes

May 20, 7 pm

PG, violent scenes. Dir: Guy Ritchie, US/ UK, 2009, 128 min. Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Rachel McAdams.

What better way to celebrate Victoria Day than with the iconic Victorian detective himself!

The Movie Man

May 21–25

PG, language, brief violent scenes. Dir: Matt Finlin, Canada, 2024, 89 min.

“A documentary about one guy deep in the forest of a tiny Canadian town desperately, and singlehandedly, trying to keep his movie theatre alive against all odds… Beyond being the story of this one solitary figure and maybe the most unusual movie theater on

the planet, it also really is the story of the industry itself… from the movies to their distribution to their exhibition to technological changes to, well, just trying to survive another season… Finlin has delved into the wild story of this particular hidden cinema and its eccentric but colorful entrepreneur Keith Stata, who himself is a true character, a non-stop raconteur with something to say about everything… Stata, now 75, had a sort of quixotic dream of building a theater in a little town called Kinmount, which has about 200 residents... Stata expanded out from a single screen in 1979, to two, then three , then four, and now five… Oh, and did I mention he also created a one-of-a-kind movie and nostalgia museum as part of the admission price? Oh, and also that he has put together a world-class collection of projectors (collected from Canadian cinemas)? Oh, and Stata also has 42 cats he single-handedly takes care of and are also part of the ambience for Highlands moviegoers… ‘Highlands Cinemas is one of the most unique moviegoing experiences in the world,’ says executive producer Ed Robertson (The Barenaked Ladies). Think of it as a Canadian Cinema Paradiso.” —Pete Hammond, Deadline

2023 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity

(The World’s Best Commercials)

May 25–29

PG. Dir: Various, International, 2023, 105 min. In English and other languages with English subtitles.

“Ads are art, and these ones will knock your socks off. Join in on one of our favourite traditions as we screen the best of the best of the 2023 Cannes Lions. Every year, the festival brings together 15,000 members of the global creative communications and advertising industries to celebrate the most innovative ad work from around the world. This impeccable collection of commercials is guaranteed to entertain—you’ll hoot, holler, cackle, wail and whimper, and otherwise delight in the vicarious joy of creativity. Prepare to be persuaded!” —Hot Docs

The Benevolent Irish Society and City Cinema Present:

A Date for Mad Mary

May 26, 4 pm

14A, very strong language, mature content. Dir: Darren Thornton, Ireland, 2016, 82 min.Seána Kerslake, Carolyn Bracken, Denise McCormack.

Irish Film Awards Winner, Best Film and Best Actress.

“Darren Thornton’s refreshingly affecting yet sparklingly funny debut feature showcases exactly why Irish film-making and talent is stronger than ever... a beautifully crafted coming-of-age-tale... Seána Kerslake leads the way as ‘Mad’ Mary McArdle, who returns to Drogheda after a short spell in Mountjoy for a vicious attack on a girl in a local nightclub... With three weeks before her long-time friend walks down the aisle, Mary becomes determined to bring a plus one... An exquisitely written, delicately made and superbly acted gem that will only get better with age and reflection.” —Laura Delaney, RTÉ “A canny blend of biting comedy and soulful drama” —Seattle Times

The Sting

May 30—June 2

PG. Dir: George Roy Hill, US, 1973, 129 min. Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert Shaw.

Pure entertainment! This tale of two con-men won 7 Oscars, including Best Picture, Director, Screenplay, and of course one for the music of Scott Joplin and Marvin Hamlisch. “A half-century on, this reteaming of the stars of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is still the ultimate big-star buddy movie”. The Washington Post

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

APRIL

You Can Call Me Bill

You Can Call Me Bill

The Old Oak

Vishtèn Connections

Jamison England… The Old Oak

The Old Oak

The Old Oak

The Old Oak

The Old Oak

The Old Oak

The People’s Joker

The People’s Joker

The People’s Joker

The People’s Joker

The People’s Joker

Sherlock Holmes

Movie Man

Movie Man

Movie Man

Movie Man

Movie Man

Best Commercials A Date For Mad Mary

Best Commercials

Best Commercials

Best Commercials

Best Commercials

The Sting The Sting MAY

JUNE

Brackley Drive-In opening

The Brackley Drive-In opens for the season on May 3 with screenings of the movies Kung Fu Panda 4 and The Fall Guy The gate opens at 7:30 pm and the first movie starts at 8:30 pm. Info: drivein.ca

Afternoon Movie Club

Visit the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre for an afternoon movie on May 7 at 1 pm. This month they will screen the movie Women Talking. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Filmworks Summerside at Harbourfront

The Filmworks Summerside at Harbourfront Series will screen Scrapper on May 13 at 7 pm. Customers can book advance tickets via phone at 888-2500, online at harbourfronttheatre.com/ shows/filmworks-summerside, or in person at the box office. Tickets can also be purchased on the day of the screening. 124 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Anime Club

2024 Heritage Awards

Islanders recognized at Eptek Art & Culture Centre

Several Islanders were recognized recently for preserving and promoting Prince Edward Island’s heritage.

PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation, along with Lieutenant Governor Antoinette Perry, presented the 2024 Heritage Awards to groups and individuals in several categories at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside.

The Heritage Recognition Award recipients were Myrna Babineau, Suzanne Campbell, Lorraine Clements, Leland Currie, Glen Kelly, Jennifer King, Nicole Lodge, Earle MacDonald (posthumous), Dianne Porter and Aggi-Rose Reddin.

(L–R): Lieutenant Governor Antoinette Perry, Jennifer King and Suzanne Campbell

Watch popular anime and chat about it with some pals at the Charlottetown Library on May 14 at 6 pm. Discuss new releases, what you’re watching now, your favorite shows, and anything and everything anime. Anime is shown in original Japanese with English subtitles. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Shrek

Kings Playhouse in Georgetown will take you to the land of Far Far Away with a screening of Shrek on May 18 at 1:30 pm. Tickets available at kingsplayhouse.com. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown.

Movie Monday

Watch a movie on the big screen in the auditorium at the Charlottetown Library on May 27 at 6 pm. This month’s film is Ghost World (Rated R). Based on the graphic novel by Daniel Clowes, this cult classic about two misfit high school graduates stars Scarlett Johansson, Thora Birch, and Steve Buscemi. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Heritage Awards in the following categories, were also given out: St. Patrick’s Ancestral Cemetery Restoration to Jamie Thomas and Jenene Woolridge; Volunteer of the Year to Brenda MacQuarrie Boudreau; Publication of the Year Academic Category to Kathleen Maude MacMillan for From Sword to Pen and to Joshua MacFadyen for Time Flies: A History of Prince Edward Island from the Air; Publication of the Year Creative Category to Genevieve Loughlin and

Charlottetown

Film Fest

Submissions now open

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Charlottetown Film Festival 2024 will run from October 17–20 on PEI.

Presented by the Charlottetown Film Society, the Festival will continue its mandate to champion emerging

Mo Duffy for Fiona: Prince Edward Island Accounts of Canada’s Biggest Storm; Irene Rogers Architectural Award to Josh Silver; Award of Honour to Confederation Centre Art Gallery; Boyde Beck Memorial Award to Linda Hennessey; Mary Cornfoot Brehaut Genealogy Award to Louis Joseph Arsenault; Natural Heritage Activity Award to Beth Hoar; Wendell Boyd Performance Award to Peter Gallant; and Catherine Hennessey Heritage Activism Award to Sophia Bourgue (young adult category) and Jaqueline MacNeill Doiron (adult category).

Visit flic.kr/s/aHBqjBihtm for photos of the event.

filmmakers, program exciting new films across all genres, and provide rewarding networking opportunities for creatives in the entertainment industry.

Canadian and international filmmakers are invited to submit films of all lengths and genres including shorts, features, music videos, web series episodes, and experimental—in both documentary and narrative.

The online submission portal is open at filmfreeway.com.

Info: charlottetownfilmfest.com

Route 15, Brackley Beach, PEI Only 15min. from Charlottetown

Enriching Lives

Special Olympics PEI fundraising gala in June

A Special Olympics PEI signature fundraising event, the Enriching Lives Gala, will take place on June 25 from 6–10 pm at the Delta Prince Edward Hotel in Charlottetown.

The evening will include a cocktail reception and dinner, silent auction and raffle, a live auction, celebrity guests, and Special Olympics athletes.

Special Olympics PEI offers their athletes, Islanders with an intellectual

WALK/RUN

May Flower Walk

The Tracadie Good Neighbourly Club invites Islanders to its annual May Flower Walk. Meet at the Tracadie Community Centre (148 Station Rd), rain or shine, on May 5 at 2 pm. The May Flower Walk is open to all and there is no fee to participate. Info: 902-330-2248

IG Wealth Management

Walk for Alzheimer’s

Join the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s to celebrate, honour, and support individuals living with dementia and their caregivers in PEI. The Walk is happening in Charlottetown at the Victoria Park Cultural Pavilion on May 25 at 2 pm. Registration opens at 1 pm. The event will feature musical entertainment, prizes, a pet zone, and a kid zone with face painting and bouncy castle. Fundraise and help the organization meet their goal of $100,000. All proceeds from the walk will directly fund crucial programs and services in the community. Join the walk for the 2800 Islanders impacted by dementia and make memories matter. Info: walkpei.ca

Points East Lighthouse Run/ Relay

The Points East Lighthouse Run/Relay will be held on June 8 beginning at 8 am.

disability, a place to belong. These athletes find their peer group and lifelong friendships, and receive access to inclusive health and athlete leadership, all through the transformative power of sport.

To purchase a table or to donate an item for the silent auction, contact Charity Sheehan at csheehan@sopei. com or 902-368-8919. specialolympics.ca/pei

Participants can sign up a team or run the solo 29.4 km course from the historic East Point Lighthouse to the Souris Lighthouse. Weaving their way through the scenery, participants will enjoy over 70 enthusiastic local volunteers along the way. Info/register: peilighthouserun.com

Lady Slipper Walk

The Tracadie Good Neighbourly Club will hold its annual Lady Slipper Walk on June 9. Meet at 2 pm at the Tracadie Community Centre (148 Station Rd). The Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium acaule) was made the official PEI provincial flower on April 25, 1947. The orchid gets its name from the shape and colours vary from pink to white to yellow. The Lady Slipper Walk is open to all and there is no fee to participate.

Walk to End ALS on PEI

The Walk to End ALS celebrates 20 years on PEI this year. Join the 20th annual event on June 15 at Victoria Park (across from the cannons) in Charlottetown, or participate in a virtual walk. The community-driven event is for people living with or affected by ALS, as well as for those who want to help create a world free of ALS. Enjoy activities for all ages including live music with Just Cuz, RC demonstrations from Great Hobbies, 50/50 tickets, a barbeque, facepainting, games, inflatables, door prizes, photo booth and more. Registration begins at 9 am with the walk starting at 10 am. Register a team at alspei.ca/walk-for-als.

GAMES

Nintendo Switch meetup

Hang out with fellow Nintendo Switch enthusiasts ages 13+ at the Charlottetown Library on May 1 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. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Scrabble Club

The Charlottetown Scrabble Club meets every Tuesday from 5–8 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. 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 a pencil for scorekeeping. Admission is free. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Cards, Crokinole, and Cronies

Socialize and play games like cribbage, crokinole, scrabble, checkers and more at the Summerside Rotary Library on May 8 and 22 at 2 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

mBot Battles

Teens are invited to use mBots at the Summerside Rotary Library to compete and battle in different activities such as obstacle courses, races and balloon duels on May 12 at 2:30 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Seniors Board Game Club

Join other seniors for an afternoon of playing board games and socializing at the Charlottetown Library on May 13 and 27 from 1–3 pm. Play a favourite game or learn a new one. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Board Game Café

The next board game café at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre is on May 29 at 6 pm. There is a wide variety of games to suit all types of gamers. 97 Queen St., Charlottetown.

PEI Sociable Singles

PEI Sociable Singles is a non-profit, non-denominational, social group for members ages 50 and over. The group provides the separated, divorced, widowed and unmarried with an opportunity to get out and participate in healthy group and social activities with other singles.

Sociable Singles is not a dating club. Meet compatible people who are unattached and in similar circumstances.

The group holds Meet and Greet Socials every Tuesday at 7 pm at the Hillsborough Hall Community Centre, 199 Patterson Dr, Charlottetown. sociable_singles@yahoo.com

Grand Slam of Curling

Hearing Life Tour Challenge coming to PEI in October

The best curlers in the world are Island-bound as the Grand Slam of Curling takes over Charlottetown this October. Bell Aliant Centre will play host to the Hearing Life Tour Challenge, the Grand Slam of Curling’s biggest event of the 2024–25 season, running from October 1–6.

The Hearing Life Tour Challenge will feature the top 32 men’s and 32 women’s teams in the world, competing in a two-tier event. The field will include Olympic medallists, world champions, and Canadian favourites.

This is the first time a Grand Slam of Curling event has been held in Charlottetown. It is an elite series of men’s and women’s curling events, featuring the best teams from across Canada and around the world. Awarding equal purses to both men’s and women’s teams since 2015, Grand Slam of Curling presents $2.1 million in total prize money each season. For ticket details and more information, visit thegrandslamofcurling.com. Volunteer opportunities, qualifying teams and scheduling details to follow.

Special Olympics PEI

READERS & WRITERS

Eptek Centre Book Club

The Eptek Centre Book Club will meet on May 2 at 7 pm to discuss the book Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Poet-in-Residence

PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis is the Poet-in-Residence at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre on the second Thursday of each month. Davis will be writing, reading, and happy to speak one-on-one with Island writers about a specific project of theirs, or the writing life in general. The next Poet-inResidence day is May 9 from 3–5 pm. Contact the library in advance (or day of) to set up an appointment via phone at 902-368-4642 or in person at 97 Queen Street, Charlottetown.

Anne Hotchkis book signing

Drop by Bookmark, Charlottetown’s independent bookstore, on May 11 for a book signing with Anne Hotchkis from 11 am–1 pm. Hotchkis is the author of the Camden Mystery Club series and her newest book, You’re On Your Own: A Mother’s Letters on Life to Her Sons, is a heartfelt collection of 32 letters penned over 25 years. These letters reflect the wisdom gained through the joys and challenges of raising children. 172 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Margaret A. Westlie book launch

Selkirk Stories Publishing will launch Margaret A. Westlie’s latest book, Twitch’s New Neighbour, on May 11 at 2 pm at the Cornwall Public Library. Copies of all the author’s books will be availalble for sale. 15 Mercedes Dr, Town Hall, Cornwall.

Be Kind Storytime

Kids are encouraged to visit the Summerside Rotary Library for Be Kind Storytime, a special storytime all about strong beginnings, building resilience, and being kind. The event takes place during Family Violence Prevention Week on May 15 at 1 pm and will include crafts and treats. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Book Lovers Talk Books

Join Book Lovers Talk Books, an informal conversation-style book club where participants talk about the books they are currently reading with fellow certified book lovers. Get recommendations and

share the love of reading with others at the next meeting on May 21 at 6 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. Register in advance (902-3684642). 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

PEIWG open mic

The PEI Writers’ Guild hosts a monthly open mic at The Gallery Coffee House & Bistro in Charlottetown on the fourth Thursday of each month at 7 pm. Each month features a different theme, accompanied by a writing prompt. A couple of spots are held at each event for those who are inspired in the moment, so bring writing, sign up the night of, and be prepared to read. All levels and all genres of writers are encouraged to participate. Admission is free and open to all, but priority is given to PEIWG members for getting on the readers list. To be a reader, email to director@peiwritersguild.com.

Summerside Library Book Club

Join the Summerside Rotary Library Book Club for a lively discussion about some of today’s most thought-provoking books. Pick up a copy of the latest book club selection at the main circulation desk. The next meeting is May 25 at 2 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Silent Book Club

Silent Book Club will take place on May 30 from 6–8 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. There is no assigned reading and all readers are welcome—ebooks, audiobooks, textbooks, comic books: it’s BringYour Own Book. Everyone settles in for an hour of silent, sustained reading. At the end of the hour, attendees can socialize—or not. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Salon du livre de l’Î.-P.-É.

The Salon du livre de l’Île-du-PrinceÉdouard (book festival) is a non-profit organization which organizes a book fair every two years, alternating the event between Charlottetown and Summerside. Returning for its sixth edition, from May 30–June 1 at the Carrefour-de-l’IsleSaint-Jean in Charlottetown, this year’s celebration of books and reading will revolve around the theme “Viens voir! Viens lire!” (“Come see! Come read!”). There will be interactive activities for people of all ages, a keynote conference, fireside chats with authors and books will be on sale, among other activities. The Carrefour de l’Isle-Saint-Jean will host most of the events for the general public. Book fests are significant cultural events that take place all over the world with the goal of showcasing literature of all kinds. The event brings together 5000 participants, over 25 French-speaking authors from across the country and readers from all over the province. Info: salondulivreipe.ca

PEI BOOKS

Twitch’s New Neighbour

Margaret A. Westlie

PEI’s Selkirk Stories Publishing will launch Twitch’s New Neighbour, the newest work by local author Margaret A. Westlie, on May 11 at 2 pm. The launch event will take place at the Cornwall Public Library.

The colourfully illustrated children’s picture book is the sequel to Twitch, the Dog who Loved Carrots (2021) and continues the adventures of Twitch, the adorable Shih Tzu with a love for carrots. In Twitch’s New Neighbour, Twitch makes a new friend in another dog. The two dogs soon find a way to play together, but unfortunately for Twitch, playtime soon turns to bath time.

Intended for children age seven and under, this story teaches that actions have consequences but that good behaviour brings rewards. It also presents a loving relationship between a parent (the dog’s owner) and a child (represented in this case by the dog).

The story of Twitch is based on Westlie’s late dog, whose name was also Twitch.

The book will be available at Island bookstores and from the publisher’s website, selkirkbookpublishing.com.

This Summer Will Be Different Carley Fortune

This Summer Will Be Different from #1 New York Times bestselling author Carley Fortune will be released May 7.

Lucy is the tourist vacationing at a beach house on PEI. Felix is the local who shows her a very good time. The only problem: Lucy doesn’t know he’s her best friend Bridget’s younger brother. Lucy and Felix’s chemistry is unreal, but the list of reasons why they need to stay away from each other is long. When Bridget suddenly flees

Toronto a week before her wedding, Lucy drops everything to follow her to the Island. Her mission is to help Bridget through her crisis and resist the one man she’s never been able to. But Felix’s sparkling eyes and flirty quips have been replaced with something new, and Lucy’s beginning to wonder just how safe her heart truly is. Fortune is the author of Every Summer After and Meet Me at the Lake. Her books have sold more than one-million copies worldwide. Meet Me at the Lake is currently a 2024 Canada Reads finalist. Fortune is a Canadian journalist who has worked as an editor for Refinery29, The Globe and Mail, Chatelaine, and Toronto Life. She lives in Toronto, ON with her husband and two sons.

MARKETS

Charlottetown Farmers’ Market

The market is open weekly on Saturdays from 9 am–2 pm year-round and Wednesdays from 9 am–2 pm through the summer beginning June 21. Local farmers, crafters, artisans and hot food vendors sell local, organic produce, fish, meats, baked goods, preserves, roasted coffee, specialty teas and much more. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown.

Summerside Farmers’ Market

Find local produce, baked goods, meat, fish, prepared food, cheese, artisans and more. Open weekly on Saturdays from 9 am–1 pm. 250 Water St, Summerside.

Matthew Tierney

An

evening of poetry and conversation—May 29

Bookmark in Charlottetown will present an evening of poetry and conversation with Matthew Tierney on May 29 from 7–8:30 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House. Tierney will be reading from his newest poetry collection Lossless. This event is free and all are welcome.

Tierney’s new collection takes its title from lossless data compression algorithms. It positions the sonnet as lines of code that transmit through time and space those ‘stabs of self,’ the awareness of being that intensifies with loss of relationships, of faith, of childhood, of people.

The qualities of light, colour, and movement in the sonnets conjure a sense of arrested time, of dust motes in the air. Playing against this intimacy are loopy chapters of Borgesian prose poems—with appearances from Duns Scotus and Simone Weil, Wittgenstein, Niels Bohr and others—that extract knowledge from information to reconstruct the source experience into a subjectivity, a personality, and a life.

Island comic wins awards

Dark Sanctuary earns Favourite Artist and Writer

PEI’s Sandstone Comics was a winner during the 2023 Sequential Magazine Awards, announced on April 12, 2024. Recognized for their work on the four-issue comic book series Dark Sanctuary, Sandy Carruthers was named Favourite Artist and Dave (D.A.) Stewart earned Favourite Writer. Sponsored by Strange Adventures Comics & Curiosities in Halifax, Dartmouth and Fredericton, the Sequential Magazine Awards originated in 2017 and are Canada-wide, fan-voted awards that highlight indie comics and their creators.

Carruthers, best known for his past comic book work in Men in Black for Malibu Graphics, has owned and operated Sandstone Comics since 2018, and currently publishes both his own work and that of other Maritime creators.

Dave Stewart, who for his comic book work goes by D.A. to avoid confusion with another comic book writer, got his start in professional writing with the first issue of The Buzz.

Tierney is the author of four books of poetry. His most recent, Midday at the Super-Kamiokande, was nominated for a ReLit Award. He won the 2013 Trillium Book Award for Poetry and is also a recipient of the K. M. Hunter Award and the P.K. Page Founders’ Award. He works for U of T as a writer in the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering and lives in the east end of Toronto with his wife and son.

Since then, he’s written for publications and websites both in Canada and internationally, and has edited and contributed to the multi-author short horror story collection Fear from a Small Place, and has written and published a solo collection of short horror fiction entitled Monster Man

Dark Sanctuary is available at local comic shops and by email to info@ sandstonecomics.com.

A gift of Island Poetry

THE SURGICAL THEATRE

All merry, then, in the waiting room: I thumb Reader’s Digest like someone’ll watch while Mum ticks her maladies off on a pad, but swathed in her johnny shirt she laughs. Sister shifts on her orthopedic foam.

We fiddle with pamphlets: lymph nodes and the damages we do to hearts. Madcap Medusas, in wires and electrodes, roll past. The scritch of gauze on hurt.

Nurses tut at our slapstick smiles; our timing’s all off. But sister yells, “Flirt for extra morphine!” and the hall’s a grocery aisle stocked with symptoms. Past PT, the nursery, our Mum rolls on—the jester on her gurney.

—Sadie McCarney

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

Dark Sanctuary, Issue #4 by Sandy Carruthers and Dave (D.A.) Stewart.

Matthew Tierney

WRONGFUL CONVICTIONS IN CANADA

Presented by James Lockyer, C.M. Partner, Lockyer Zaduk Zeeh

Chief Justice Thane A. Campbell

THURSDAY,

Towards a New Forest Policy for Prince Edward Island

John Andrew Fishing Derby

Andrew’s Pond in East Royalty—June 2

Andrew’s Pond on Wright’s Creek in East Royalty has existed since 1800. For generations it was the preeminent area for brook trout fishing around Charlottetown. The Wright’s Creek Watershed Environmental Committee (WCWEC) and the Hillsborough River Association (HRA) wish to celebrate this history by hosting a public fishing derby on June 2 from 9 am–12:30 pm. Over the past 15 years, WCWEC has worked with their many partners and volunteers to restore and revitalize the ponds and adjacent streams, and to establish trails necessary to access the fishing spots and walk the woodlands and viewing stations.

Operation Releaf

Charlottetown to provide climate resilient trees to homeowners

The City of Charlottetown has relaunched Operation Releaf, providing eligible homeowners the opportunity to plant a single large, climate resilient tree on their private property.

Last year, the City and Tree Canada partnered to provide 175 trees to Charlottetown homeowners as a part of Operation Releaf and they have committed to continuing this program for a second year. A maximum of 100 eligible homeowners will be able to receive a tree for $20 this spring, with a further 50–75 applicants receiving trees in the fall.

Applications for the spring planting phase are open until May 17 or until all trees are assigned. Tree species offered this year include red maple, sugar maple, red oak, crab-apple “dolgo”

Central to this restoration work has been the vision and commitment of the late Dr. John Andrew whose family roots go back for generations on the Wright’s Creek and Andrew’s Mill Pond properties. To celebrate his leadership and stewardship efforts, the John Andrew Memorial Fishing Derby was established in 2023 to recognize John’s interest and work.

This free family event, sponsored by WCWEC and HRA, welcomes all ages. Registration at 9 am at Malcolm J. Darrach Community Centre (1 Avonlea Drive, East Royalty). Fishing from 9–11:30 am, equipment and bait required. Light refreshments and age group prize draws at the Community Centre from 11:30 am–12:30 pm, including prizes for longest and fattest fish. No fishing license is required for this event.

The derby proceeds regardless of weather, except in case of lightning.

For more information email wrightscreekcharlottetown@gmail.com.

and autumn brilliance serviceberry. Homeowners must meet the program criteria and be willing to dig the hole for the tree in an agreed location. If more than 100 applications are received before May 17, priority will be given to those who indicate that financial barriers would prevent them from planting trees on their property without this program, and to those residential properties in priority areas with highest tree canopy loss.

Info/register: 902-629-6620; charlottetown.ca/releaf

The Nature of PEI by Gary Schneider

The Warblers are coming!

There are many special times to be a birding enthusiast on Prince Edward Island. Watching Northern Gannets as they soar over the waters off East Point in the fall. Taking part in the Christmas Bird Count and finding Snow Buntings and Rough-legged Hawks. Or, from a distance, seeing Piping Plovers and their young on a beautiful Island beach in July. Really, there is no bad time to be a birder here.

Yet the spring migration of warblers is extra special. It is not just that these birds have returned to our province to raise a family, but that they do it with such a splash.

First, a bit about warblers. They are a family of small birds (about the size of a Black-capped Chickadee) that all have some kind of musical song. These can range from the loud “teacher, teacher, teacher” of the Ovenbird to the almost zipper-like song of the Northern Parula.

Improving salmon habitat

Hillsborough River Association receives funding grant

The Hillsborough River Association has received a 2024 Foundation for Conservation of Atlantic Salmon grant of $18,000 to implement wild Atlantic salmon habitat improvements and to continue the opening of stream enhancement work trails blocked by trees fallen by the recent Post Tropical Storm Fiona.

Woodland ecology school

Registration now open for 2024

Registration is now open for the 2024 School of Woodland Ecology (SWE) season at Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project.

The colours of many migrant warblers can be incredible. It is the males that moult into beautiful spring colours and give us some gorgeous reds, oranges, even blues, at times making it look like someone has decorated our forests. The sight of a Blackburnian Warbler or an American Redstart in breeding plumage is not quickly forgotten.

Given our winters and the fact that they are insectivores, all warblers are migratory in this climate. I’ve often heard reports of Islanders spending part of the winter in Cuba or other southern climes and being surprised to see so many of “our” warblers there. But they’re just migrating to places where they can find insects.

Some species are short-distance migrants, coming up from the southern states, while others winter in Mexico and even into South America. Over 20 species of warblers nest in the province, while some—including the Blackpoll Warbler—we only see on their way to or from nesting grounds in the northern boreal forest.

Getting back to birding, it is exciting when you get out and hear the returning American robins, Common Grackles, and Red-winged Blackbirds singing up a storm. A sure sign of spring. But somehow, it is that first call

of the Yellow-Rumped Warbler that lets you know that there soon will be a flood arriving from the south. And it really can be a flood. Species often fly together on migration, and when the weather changes, large numbers will drop into an area. I’ve seen flocks or 30 Yellow-Rumped Warblers descend on the dam at the Macphail Homestead in Orwell, along with a few of our other early species such as Black-throated Greens and Cape Mays. But there have been reports of much larger gatherings. This phenomenon is called a “fallout” of warblers, as they literally just drop out of the sky.

One of my favourite activities at Macphail Woods (macphailwoods. org) is our annual Birds and Breakfast, run in conjunction with the Macphail Homestead. This year it is on Saturday, May 18th. There is a free breakfast, starting at 7 am. Then at 8 am, we’ll walk the woodland trails and look for a variety of year-round resident birds as well as our spring visitors. It is a great opportunity to see everything from Common Yellowthroats to Blackburnian Warblers. We’ll have extra binoculars on hand and be accompanied by some excellent birders to help with identification. Everyone is welcome, no matter your age or skill level.

And if you are interested in learning more about warblers, or birds of any kind, check out Nature PEI (naturepei. ca). They often run bird identification workshops throughout the year.

The stream and riparian zone improvement work will take place on the Head of Hillsborough main stream, Pisquid River, Clark’s Creek, and Vernon River. This funding will assist the Hillsborough River Association and Pisquid River Enhancement Project staff to: maintain beaver-free zones on Pisquid River, Clark’s Creek, and Head of Hillsborough; trap silt to improve salmon spawning and rearing habitat; remove log jams to maintain fish access; continue temperature and nitrate monitoring; support salmon redd and electrofishing surveys; and educate student employees, elementary school students, and landowners. In addition, they will install two pairs of natural log flow deflectors and two digger logs; install at least 30 meters of brush mats to capture silt; plant and maintain native trees and shrubs to enrich diversity and create stream shade; and install floating log cover structures.

Over the last 30 years, Macphail Woods has offered an extensive variety of workshops focused on ecological concepts, woodlot management and building forestry skills. Their teaching method is based on direct experience, observation, and hands-on learning. Students are taught to recognize keystone patterns, whether in a flower or a forest. This time-tested approach works for students of every age and level of understanding.

Visit macphailwoods.org/courses/ school-of-woodland-ecology for more information and to register.

Male Black-throated Green Warbler

MACPHAIL WOODS

COMMUNITY #1

Breastfeeding basics

Pregnant and new parents are invited to Breastfeeding Essentials, a two-part presentation on May 22 and June 5, from 10–11 am, at the Beaconsfield Carriage House. Hosted by La Leche League PEI, the course covers preparing to breastfeed and dealing with challenges. The presentations are free to attend and all are welcome. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown. Info: 902-316-2167; @LLLC.PEI on FB

Forestry Commission seeking Islanders’ feedback

Islanders are invited to fill out a new 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.

PEI Public Libraries Service

PEI Public Libraries Service offers free community programming for all ages. Visit the Public Library events calendar at library.pe.ca or follow @PEI Public Library Service on FB.

French conversation group

A French conversation group is held on Mondays at 4 pm at the Charlottetown Library learning Centre. 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 Autistic Adults

PEI Autistic Adults is an online and in-person peer-support group for autistic adults/seniors on PEI to talk about autism, share experiences of navigating PEI as autistic adults, and support each other. The website, peiautisticadults. com, has a public blog where members can share their views, a private discussion forum, private chat functionality, and links to their social media. There are 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 do not wish to interact online can email peiautisticadults@gmail. com. PEI Autistic Adults is not affiliated with any organization.

Community fridges

Betty Begg-Brooks and the volunteers at Gifts from the Heart manage three community fridges. Food donations can be dropped off during community fridge operating hours (Monday–Friday from 9 am–5 pm) at the nearest fridge location—10 Maple Hills in Charlottetown, the West Royalty Community Centre, or the Stratford No Frills parking lot. Training is provided for those interested in volunteering at the community fridges. Volunteer shifts are from 9 am–1 pm or 1–5 pm. Monetary and food donations are accepted during the week at the Charlottetown office location, 10 Maple Hills Ave. Call Betty at 393-0171 for after hours drop-offs, to volunteer, or to register as a client.

Tech help

Members of the public can have their technology questions answered at the Charlottetown and Summerside libraries. Bring devices and questions, and drop in to the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre on Saturdays from 2–4 pm to get paired up with one of their teen volunteers for tech help. In Summerside, oneon-one tech help is offered on Thursdays at 3 pm. Call the Summerside Rotary Library in advance at 902-436-7323 to register.

Brain injury support meetings

A brain injury support group, hosted by the Brain Injury Association of PEI, is held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month in Stratford. Meetings take place in the Battery Point room at the Stratford Town Hall at 234 Shakespeare Dr, or on occasion, there are outings. Info: @BrainInjuryPEI on FB; Jo-Ann McInnis (902-213-1480); Elton Poole (902-9162750); Jeff Smith (613-301-9402).

CRHS Class of ‘74

A 50th anniversary reunion for 1974

Charlottetown Rural High School graduates will be held on June 8 at 6 pm at the Haviland Club in Charlottetown. Those interested in attending can send their email address to crhs1974reunion@ gmail.com or join the group on FB @ Charlottetown Rural Class of 1974 Reunion. Spread the word to fellow graduates and teachers. The deadline to register is May 10.

Hillsborough River Association AGM

The Hillsborough River Association is holding its Annual General Meeting in mid-May at Stratford Town Hall’s Stanhope Room starting at 7 pm. There will be a photo essay on the recovery on steam enhancement work trails damaged by Hurricane Fiona and the Association’s stream improvement work done during 2024. In addition, there will be a guest speaker. Visit their FB page

@ Hillsborough River Association for details on the date and speaker. Info: pisquidwatershed@gmail.com. 234 Shakespeare Dr, Stratford.

Seniors Café

The next Seniors Café at the Charlottetown Library is on May 16 at 1 pm. Michael Gaudet from GEBIS will lead a meditation session, followed by light refreshments and socializing. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

David ‘Eli’ MacEachern bursary applications open

The City of Charlottetown is accepting applications for the 27th David ‘Eli’ MacEachern Bursary. The annual bursary was established in 1997 to recognize Olympic gold medalist and Charlottetown resident David ‘Eli’ MacEachern. This $1000 bursary is open to students graduating this spring from Charlottetown Rural High School, Colonel Gray High School or École François-Buote who have been dedicated to excellence in sport and plan on continuing their education and development in their chosen field of sport. To apply, students must include their home address, be residents in Charlottetown and send a short essay detailing how they meet the criteria. The deadline to apply is May 15 at 4 pm. Applications can be submitted by mail to: City of Charlottetown PO Box 98, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 7K2 Attn: Jackie McKinnon; emailed to jmckinnon@charlottetown.ca or dropped off in person to Charlottetown City Hall, 199 Queen St. Info: 902-629-4101

PEI Rainbow Youth Club

Members and allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community who are looking for new pals and fun times are welcome to join the PEI Rainbow Youth Club at the Summerside Rotary Library. The Club is open to youth ages 12–18. Each meeting provides youth with the opportunity to participate in youth-led discussions and fun activities, complete with opportunities for creativity and self-discovery. These sessions are led by trained PEERS Alliance staff and volunteers, and include a healthy snack. Participants will not be asked to identify and all are welcome to attend. The next meetings are May 7 and 21 at 6 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Hospice PEI grief support

Hospice PEI holds monthly online meetings via Zoom on the third Thursday of the month at 7 pm. This spring, a structured eight-week, in-person grief support group will be held in the West Prince area. This group will occur once a week, and participants are encouraged to commit to the full eight weeks. To register for either group or for further details, call the Hospice PEI grief support coordinator at 902-330-3857. For info on navigating through grief and for helpful resources, call 902-330-3857 or email griefsupport@ hospicepei.ca. To learn more about Hospice PEI programs and services and how to get involved, visit hospicepei.ca.

Free children’s programming

Ongoing programs for babies, toddlers and young children continues at the Summerside Rotary Library in May, including: Wiggle Giggle Read (9:30 am, Wednesdays); Toddler Time (9:30 am, Thursdays); Saturday Storytime (1 pm, Saturdays); and Puppet Play (10:30 am, May 4). 57 Central St, Summerside.

CMHA’s National Mental Health Week

The Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) National Mental Health Week is May 6–12. This year’s theme, “Healing through Compassion,” calls on Canadians to show kindness towards themselves and others. Everyone has the capacity to be compassionate and this year’s Mental Health Week is centered on the healing power of compassion. Join CMHA during Mental Health Week to explore how compassion connects everyone. To download a Mental Health Week toolkit, visit mentalhealthweek.ca. Info: pei.cmha.ca

Plant swap

The Summerside Rotary Library is hosting a plant swap on May 5 at 2 pm. Bring plants and/or cuttings to the Library and swap with fellow plant lovers. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Call for public participation in travel activity survey

The City of Charlottetown has launched a “travel diary” survey to gather data on how people move in Charlottetown and gain a stronger understanding of foot and traffic flow in the community. The Canada Activity Travel Survey is a cross-Canada project conducted in partnership with the Dalhousie University Transportation Collaboratory to help guide future policy, understand greenhouse gas emissions and gather ideas on how to improve transit in participating cities. The survey is live and asks residents to provide a 24-hour travel log. Anyone who is a resident of Charlottetown can participate in the survey, including individuals who work from home or do not travel regularly. Visit charlottetownhall.ca/daltrac to learn more and participate. Info: 902-6294158; planning@charlottetown.ca

Planning for peace of mind

Planning for Peace of Mind: Navigating Life’s Final Chapters sessions will be offered at West River United on May 1 from 10 am–4 pm. Sessions will equip attendees with tools and knowledge to make informed decisions, ensure that their wishes are clear, and that their loved ones are prepared for their passing. Morning and afternoon sessions are available and participation is flexible; the day can be tailored to one’s interests. The session topics are: Demystify Wills, Bequests and Power of Attorney; Funeral Planning; Healthcare Directives; Palliative Care; and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). Info: office@westriverunited.com; westriverunited.com. 10 Church St, Cornwall.

The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson

Spectacles

We were driving home past Québec City on a gusty day in April, having been happily storm-stayed in Montréal, when the sky was filled with geese by the thousands—beautiful white snow geese—whirling and dropping and dancing, in loose V-formations or cavorting on their own, all playing with the fitful wind, putting on a spectacle, it seemed, just for us.

By total coincidence we saw the same thing last October in the same place. Then the snow geese were migrating south from their breeding grounds in the far north. Now six months later and holidays in the Carolinas over, they return to the Arctic for the serious job of starting another family. Their itinerary, coming and going, includes stopping at this small strip of coastline on the St. Lawrence River to dine on marsh grasses and delectable American bulrush roots.

I’ve seen them twice! Pure magic. And how about that eclipse… I was here in 1972 when our last total solar eclipse happened but don’t remember a thing about it. (I had a baby and a health food store: is that an excuse?)

Apparently it was a big deal. UPEI set up viewing sites on the North Shore and you can read about it at: projects. upei.ca/astronomy/tag/eclipse/

This time, April 8, 2024, we joined a modest number of bespectacled viewers down at the Cove. The low tide invited us to settle on a sandbar where, fortified by appropriate beverages and snacks, and entertained by the banter of lusty seals on a rocky outcropping (I hope they weren’t tempted to look up at the sun), we watched the moon edge across our life-giving star.

The sky grew softer, the shadows hazier, and a cold breeze sprang out of nowhere. We wrapped ourselves in

blankets, took another sip of restorative tonic, adjusted our dark glasses and waited... but the eclipse at the Cove wasn’t total. I would describe it as “dusk with an extremely bright streetlight.” Nothing out of the ordinary happened. Children kept playing on the park swings. Crows kept cawing.

It was still fabulous.

Things were more spectacular at North Cape where CBC recorded the gasps and passion of a crowd experiencing three minutes of total darkness. How lovely for Prince County to host such a significant event, and how unusual for those visitors to be part of a traffic convoy 20 kilometers long.

What a delightful eclipse. I didn’t hear one bad word about it. Maybe the true spectacle was seeing everyone on the same page, laughing, sharing and looking in the same direction. We need something like that every few months to bring us all together.

What am I thinking? We’re heading into May, a month full of special events and any number of kinds of reasons to get together. Graduations. Weddings. Mother’s Day. Lobsters, tulips, rhubarb pies. The Harlem Globetrotters.

Poets have written more poems about “the merry month of May” than about any other month, so watch out. Things are going to happen. There are going to be some spectacles.

Bread making basics

Learn the basics of bread making with Sheila from the Women’s Institute on May 7 at 6:30 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. Register in advance (902-368-4642). Space is limited.

Yom HaShoah

Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration ceremony

This year marks 25 years since the passage of PEI’s Holocaust Memorial Day Act (1999). The PEI Jewish Community is observing Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) with a commemoration ceremony on May 5 from 2–4 pm in the Rotary Hall at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre.

Jewish victims of the Holocaust will be remembered with the lighting of six memorial candles, reading the names of victims, reciting the Mourners’ Prayer, and the chanting of the Prayer for the Souls of the Departed.

The keynote address is “Whoever listens to a witness, becomes a witness” (Elie Wiesel): Roza VeermanSchneider’s story, witnessed by Ilana Sofron-Clyde.

Ilana Sofron-Clyde was born in Israel and studied Literature at Hebrew University and Tel Aviv University, then pursued dance at Bat-Dor School and danced with the Bat-Dor Dance Company. Ilana later taught dance in New York and chaired the Ballet Department at Princeton University. As her dance career wound down, she started teaching Hebrew and religious studies in New Jersey. She now teaches virtually to students across North America.

All are invited and welcome to attend this free event.

Info: info@peijc.org

*Donating an item to the Silent Auction* *Donating an item to the Silent Auction* *Purchasing Gala Tickets* *Purchasing Gala Tickets*

The Enriching Lives Gala, Special Olympics PEI’s The Enriching Lives Gala, Special Olympics PEI’s signature fundraising event, is taking place on signature fundraising event, is taking place on Tuesday, June 25. You can support the Gala by: Tuesday, June 25. You can support the Gala by:

PHILIP CLYDE

Ilana Sofron-Clyde

COMMUNITY #2

Victoria Park active transportation pathway open

The Victoria Park active transportation pathway is open for the summer season and will remain open until the end of October. Vehicular traffic will be permitted to travel one-way through the park via the outside lane. The inside lane will be for self-propelled (non-motorized) transportation that relies on the use of human energy such as walking, jogging, cycling, inline skating, skateboarding or the use of a wheelchair. Strollers and non-electric scooters are also permitted. Anyone using this pathway is asked to be conscious of other users and reduce their speeds when necessary. Info: parksrecreation@charlottetown.ca

Gifts from the Heart seeking donors and volunteers

Gifts from the Heart’s (GFTH) mandate is to serve low-income Island residents and those undergoing temporary hardships for free. Whether it’s families facing challenging times, seniors in nursing homes, children in shelters, people living with addiction or the unhoused, public support and contributions help to make a significant difference. Currently, GFTH is serving over 2000 families across the Island, providing food, furniture, household items, personal items and all their basic needs. As a nonprofit organization, GFTH relies heavily on the support of generous donors to continue their mission and serve more families and communities. Funds are used to purchase essential supplies, cover overhead operating costs, support ongoing operations, and provide support to low-income residents. Donations and contributions directly benefit families and individuals across PEI. GFTH is also seeking volunteers to help run their community fridges in Stratford and West Royalty. Volunteers can register at the head office located at 10 Maple Hills Ave, Charlottetown. Info: bettybegg@gmail.com; 902-393-0171; giftsfromtheheartinc.com

Community sustainability micro-grants

The City of Charlottetown is accepting applications for the Community Sustainability Micro-Grant Program, offering up to $2500 in funding to eligible projects focused on promoting sustainability in the community. Micro-grants are available to individuals or community organizations planning an event or project that works towards the goals of the City’s Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (ICSP). The ICSP focuses on environmental, economic, cultural and social concerns in the community. Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee based on project feasibility, positive impact and contribution to community sustainability goals and overall creativity. The application deadline is 4 pm on May 8 and all projects must be completed by the end of 2024. Visit charlottetown.ca/microgrants or contact Katrina Cristall (kcristall@ charlottetown.ca; 902-629-6368) for info.

Cape Bear Lighthouse and Marconi Station finalist

The Cape Bear Lighthouse and Marconi Station in Murray Harbour have been nominated as one of the 12 finalists for the National Trust for Canada’s The Next Great Save competition this year. The Next Great Save invites heritage advocates from coast to coast to make a case for a $50,000 cash prize that can help to protect, adapt, renew and improve Canada’s historic places. The historic Cape Bear Lighthouse has served as a light in the path for sailors and fishermen since 1881 at the southern tip of PEI.

Some of the artifacts in the lighthouse cannot be displayed due to lack of space, including a large replica model of the Titanic and Marconi operator’s desk. This, in turn, contributes to the inability of the lighthouse to achieve its mission of promoting public appreciation of its unique setting and history. The Next Great Save could help address deficiencies and ensure the ongoing viability of

the Cape Bear Lighthouse and Marconi Station as a premium point of interest and important historical place. Online public voting continues until May 6 at nextgreatsave.nationaltrustcanada. ca/2024. The winner and runners-up will be announced on May 7.

Beneficial changes to Legal Aid eligibility

Financial thresholds to access Legal Aid on PEI have been increased to match market basket measure (MBM) to more fairly represent the economic landscape and improve access to justice across the Island. The changes are a result of a review of the guidelines to better identify financial thresholds for Legal Aid moving forward. Using the MBM allows Legal Aid on PEI to become better aligned with other jurisdictions across Canada when measuring financial means and eligibility. Legal Aid PEI will continue to use a flexible means test to assess all aspects of financial eligibility, coverage and prioritization of legal needs and merit of the application. Legal Aid PEI also has discretionary approval where a strict application of guidelines would cause undue hardship, meaning a broader set of factors to determine eligibility will remain in existence and standard practice. Info: princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/ justice-and-public-safety/legal-aid

Lymphedema support

The PEI Lymphedema Education and Support Group meetings take place at 12:30 pm on the second Sunday of each month at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. The meetings are open to anyone with an interest. There are options to participate in person, online, or both. Contact Rose-Lune Goulet at 940-6780 or rlygoulet@yahoo.ca for info.

Breast cancer support

Charlottetown Breast Cancer Support Group will resume their meetings on April 6 at 2 pm. Meetings are held on the first Monday of each month, unless it falls on a holiday and will instead be held on the following Monday. Info: 569-3496; charlottetownbreastcancersg@ gmail.com

Health PEI Patient Navigators

Health PEI Patient Navigators will be offering public education sessions this month at both the Summerside and Charlottetown libraries. A patient navigator is a person who can help people access health care services and supports throughout PEI. These library sessions are designed to educate and inform the public on the resources available to them. The Summerside sessions will be held on May 4 and 7 at 10 am. The sessions in Charlottetown will be held on May 4 and 14 at 10 am. Call ahead to register.

Seniors Café

Visit the Seniors Café at the Summerside Rotary Library on May 10 at 11 am. Enjoy a free cup of tea or coffee and a discussion with guest Mark Greenan from Service Canada. Greenan will talk about Service Canada’s offerings, focusing on public pensions and the new Canadian Dental Care Plan. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Secondary traumatic stress and empathic strain info

A free presentation on Secondary Traumatic Stress & Empathic Strain with Françoise Mathieu will take place at the Silver Fox Entertainment Complex in Summerside on May 9 from 1–3 pm. Organized by the Community Sector Network of PEI, this session is for people working and volunteering in the nonprofit sector. Learn about the differences between burnout and secondary traumatic stress, gain tools for grounding and resetting, and discover strategies for organizations to support their staff effectively. Françoise Mathieu is a specialist in high-stress workplaces and has extensive experience in mental health and trauma-exposed work. Register at eventbrite. com. 110 Water St, Summerside.

Organization 101

Special guest Kendra Jenkins from Get Organized PEI will be at the Summerside Rotary Library on May 14 at 6 pm to present Organization 101. Jenkins will talk about tips on decluttering, how to get started, the benefits of a well-organized space, and how to not get overwhelmed or discouraged. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Talking from Experiences by

Ashleigh Tremere

We’re hooked

I grew up in a fishing family. One of my earliest memories is from sitting on the engine cover of my parents’ lobster boat. Stuffed in layers of clothes, wearing a life jacket, and wrapped in a checkered comforter, with my little sister falling asleep on my shoulder. Salty spray splashing over the port side and misting my face. It wasn’t a particularly nice day. That’s the thing about fishing though, the weather doesn’t have to cooperate for it to be memorable—as long as you’re dressed for it.

Angling season opened on April 15th, so with tackle boxes and packed lunches in tow, those with licenses saddled up along river banks and bridges, casting lines till at least September. I like to get myself and the kids out a couple times of year with some friends, and I always try to get them to a fishing derby.

Derbies are put on all across our Island, usually by watershed groups or local associations looking to get people exposed to the sport of fishing. They generally include prizes for different categories, like largest fish or youngest fisher. There will be snacks for snacking or a bbq for participants to enjoy.

Organizers also apply for exemptions for their event, which means registered participants don’t require a license during the time frame of the event. You do need to bring your own equipment but if you happen to have never used a rod before, there’s always someone eagerly waiting to give you a hand getting set up or to help you get your fish off the line.

They also usually take place at an area that’s been stocked by Forest, Fish and Wildlife, increasing your odds but definitely not guaranteeing them!

The John Andrew Memorial Fishing Derby at Andrew’s Pond is planned for June 2nd this year. It’s put on by the Wrights Creek Watershed Environmental Committee, which Andrew co-founded, and The Hillsborough River Association, of which he was a long standing, active member. Registration is at the Malcolm Darrach Centre starting at 9 am, with fishing taking place on the lower end of the beautiful trail system that John helped establish.

SALES

G’Ma Fabric & Yarn Sale

The G’Ma Circle of PEI will hold its annual Fabric & Yarn Sale on May 4 from 9 am–12 noon at West River United. All proceeds from this event will go to the Stephen Lewis Foundation to support African communities and grandmothers raising children orphaned by AIDS. Donations of yarn, fabric and notions are gratefully appreciated. Volunteers to help with various aspects of the sale (publicity, sorting donations, setting up and working at the sale) are also needed. Call 902-892-2837 to arrange for pickup or delivery of goods, or to volunteer. 10 Church St, Cornwall.

Bike Swap and Sale

Gifts from the Heart Sales

Betty Begg-Brooks and the volunteers at Gifts from the Heart offer free food, clothing, furniture and houseware to qualified low income families and those experiencing temporary hardship from their Charlottetown office at 10 Maple Hills Ave. Donations of new and gently-used clothing, furniture and household items can be dropped off on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 am–4 pm. Monetary donations are gratefully received throughout the week. End of Month Sales are held from 10 am–3 pm on the last Saturday of each month (May 25) for the public to thrift shop the inventory. The monthly sales help to defray operating costs. To register as a client, call 393-0171.

Zion Spring Clothing Sale

This derby is a free, family-friendly event. Even though the weather wasn’t very cooperative last year, lots of people were in attendance, many of whom had come straight from buying their first rods to make memories with their families on the river banks, wrapped in layers of clothes, little life jackets, and blankets.

Regardless of the weather or catches, there is something peaceful about spending a free morning by the water, especially when someone else is making lunch for you. No doubt wherever you reside on the Island, someone will be hosting a fishing derby soon. So grab a rod, a buddy and some bait, and hope for fair weather, but if it doesn’t come, put on some layers and cast a line anyways. As they say, there are no bad days on the water.

A Bike Swap and Sale event will take place at the PEI REACH store on May 10 from 3–6 pm. Get an old bike assessed for a store credit toward a new one from the REACH RE-Cycle Bike Program. This is a chance to get a child’s bike sized just right while supporting REACH’s youth mental health and addiction recovery programming. Snag a fresh bike, check out the soaps, and learn more about the embroidery shop. 49 Fourth St, West Royalty Industrial Park, Charlottetown. Info: reachfoundation.ca

Annual Compost Sale

The Annual Compost Sale will be held at St. Mark’s Presbyterian on May 18 from 9 am–1 pm. The compost, which is seafood delivered by Northern Peat, is priced by the bag or in bulk by the scoop. It will be available in the church parking lot at 7 Tamarac Ave in Charlottetown. Proceeds from the sale will go toward paving a new parking lot and church missions.

Tracadie Yard Sale

The Tracadie community will be holding a yard sale on Victoria Day weekend, May 18–20, at 1257 Donaldston Road. Tools, furniture, kitchen, collectables, books, plants, clothes and more will be available for purchase, as well as special items from around the world like batik, wooden carvings and straw baskets.

The Spring Clothing Sale at Zion Presbyterian will be open daily from 9 am–1 pm on May 31 and June 1. There will be large selection of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, as well as shoes, purses and jewelry at fair prices. There will also be a barbeque each day. 135 Prince St, Charlottetown.

Canoe Cove Perennial Sale

The Canoe Cove Community Association will be holding their 17th annual Perennial Sale on June 1 from 9 am–12 noon. The sale takes place at the Inman Park in Canoe Cove and will feature hundreds of perennials, annuals, herbs, dahlias, shrubs, trees and rich garden compost at reasonable prices. The Historic Canoe Cove School building had extensive foundation work last November and sale proceeds will go to the Association’s Foundation Fund to assist with covering the cost of the work and associated renovations. The canteen will be offering coffee and muffins during the sale. 208 Park Rd, Canoe Cove.

INSTANT SAVINGS ARE BACK!

ISSUE# 365 • MAY 2024

buzzpei.com @buzzpei

Editor: Yanik Richards

Editor: Michelle Ollerhead

Website: Nakeesa Aghdasy

Advertising: Adriane Gaudet

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

Contributors: Mike Bernard, Julie Bull, Dennis Ellsworth, Sadie McCarney, Sean McQuaid, Heather Millar, Takako Morita, JoDee Samuelson, Tara Reeves, Gary Schneider, Bren Simmers, Ashleigh Tremere

Office: 160 Richmond Street, Charlottetown

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

C1A7N5

Phone: 902-628-1958

E-mail: info@buzzpei.com

Social Media: @buzzpei

The Buzz is published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc.

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: Jam Mix ‘87, oil on canvas, 40”x 40”, by Heather Millar.

Heather Millar is a professional painter living and working in PEI since 2008. She completed her BFA at Alberta College of Art and Design in Calgary in 1998. Her work has evolved into her own unique blend of impressionist melded with realism, with the overall impression of contemporary pop-art whereupon the image depicted is the sole focus of the painting.

Heather is currently represented at Canvas Gallery in Toronto, ON, Adele Campbell Fine Art Gallery in Whistler, BC and Jones Gallery in Saint John, NB. Her work can be found in private collections worldwide, in public collections nationwide, and on the set of “Suits” and HGTV.

DEEDEE

Inn Echo, Music PEI Week 2024 (photo: Mike Bernard Photography)

Mondays | 8 pm

Rat Tales Comedy Night

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Apr 29 | 8 pm

Jazz Avenue

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Apr 30 | 7:30 pm

Holland College Community Band: Heroic Measures

Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

May 1 | 7:30 pm

ECMA: Day One

Opening Night Concert feat. The East Pointers, The Once and Two Hours Traffic. Delta Prince Edward, Charlottetown

May 2

ECMA: Day Two

Canadian Music. East Coast Style. Export Showcase // ECMA 2024 Awards Show // Amplified at the Beer Garden // Blame it on my Roots // Lyrics & Beats. Various locations, Charlottetown (see Buzz page B16)

May 2 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Ryan Van Winkle Quartet

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

May 3

ECMA: Day Three

Children’s Stage // Tunes & Tales // Friday Night at the Church // Canadian Music. East Coast Style. Export Showcase // Black Vibes // Late Night at the Trailside // Late Night at the Ballroom. Various locations, Charlottetown (see Buzz page B17)

May 3 | 5 pm

DeeDee Austin Confederation Court Mall, Charlottetown

May 3 | 7:30 pm

The Alan Jackson Tribute Experience Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 4

ECMA: Day Four

ECMA Fan Fest // Around the World with ECMA // Blues Matinee // Classical Showcase // Screamin’ Teens // Tunes & Tales // Canadian Music. East Coast Style. Export Showcase // Saturday Night at the Church // Jazz Night // Late Night at John Browns. Various locations, Charlottetown (see Buzz page B17)

May 4 | 2:30 pm, 7:30 pm

dance umbrella: Year-end Showcase

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

May 4 | 7:30 pm

Queen: It’s Kinda Magic Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 5

ECMA: Day Five

ECMA 2024 Awards Show - Part II // Songwriters’ Circle Showcase. Delta PE, Charlottetown (see Buzz page B17)

May 5 | 3 pm

Summerside Community

Choir: Sing Into Spring Trinity United, Summerside

May 7–Oct 15 | select dates

Anne & Gilbert: The Musical

Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

May 8, 9

The Good Brothers

May 8, 8 pm: Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 9, 7:30 pm: Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

May 9 | 8 pm

Island Jazz plays TV Themes with Kelley Mooney Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

May 9–11 | 7:30 pm

The Addams Family: A New Musical

Presented by Charlottetown Rural High School. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

May 9–11 | 7:30 pm

The Mousetrap

A Murder Mystery By Agatha Christie. Presented by Seaside Theatre Company. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 9 ,10, 11

A Brahms Bonanza

Feat. Sarah Hagen (piano), Per Johannson (clarinet) and Marit Sjödin (cello).

May 9, 7 pm: Souris Show Hall, Souris May 10, 7:30 pm: St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

May 11, 2 pm: Hillcrest United, Montague

East Coast Music

Five-day celebration of Atlantic Canada’s music scene

Atlantic Canada’s music scene hits Charlottetown from May 1 to 5 with the 36th annual East Coast Music Awards (ECMA). The week-long celebration will feature a diverse and dynamic lineup of musical talent, as well as the ECMA Industry Conference, the International Export Buyers Program, and the Atlantic Musicians Town Hall.

The festivities kick off with an Opening Night Concert on May 1 at 7:30 pm at the Prince Edward Confederation Ballroom (PECB) at Delta Prince Edward Hotel (Delta PE), presented by Atlantic Lottery in partnership with Noisemaker Management. Pop-folk duo The East Pointers (PE) will share the stage with roots-folk trio The Once (NL) and pop-rock group Two Hours Traffic (PE).

The marquee event of ECMA 2024 arrives with the Awards Show on May 2 at 8 pm. Co-hosted by Damhnait Doyle and Rose Cousins, the Ballroom at Delta PE will come alive with performances by The East Pointers (PE), Tara MacLean (PE), Rum Ragged (NL), Morgan Toney (CB), Maggie Andrew (NS), KAYO (NS), Jenn Grant (NS/PE), Émilie Landry (NB), Tim Baker (NL), and Lennie Gallant (PE).

The Joining Atlantic Musicians Town Hall on May 3 at 3:30 pm in the Aspen Room at Delta PE will provide a platform for artists and industry insiders to exchange ideas and perspectives, fostering the community and collaboration that lies at the heart of Atlantic Canada’s music scene.

On May 4 at noon, the Dairy Farmers of Canada ECMA Fan Fest returns to Victoria Row, offering free, family-friendly performances by Neon

Dreams, Brandon Howard Roy, Rum Ragged, and KINLEY.

For those who crave storytelling and songcraft, the SOCAN Songwriters’ Circle takes place on May 5 at 2:30 pm in the Riverview Room at Delta PE. Closing out the ECMA festival, this annual tradition will feature the 2024 Award Show hosts Damhnait Doyle (NL) and Rose Cousins (PE), alongside Émilie Landry (NB), Kellie Loder (NL), Morgan Toney (CB), Reeny Smith (NS) and The East Pointers (PE).

Beyond the spotlight, the ECMA Industry Conference offers insights and opportunities for professionals across the music spectrum. From workshops on promotion strategies to the Music in Motion Sync Summit, attendees will find a wealth of resources to navigate and thrive in the evolving music industry landscape.

The 22nd International Export Buyers Program shines a spotlight on Atlantic Canada’s homegrown talent, attracting over 100 international talent buyers from the United States, Denmark, Belgium, Sweden, Finland, Ireland, France, Australia, the United Kingdom and Canada. With performances spanning a myriad of venues and genres, ECMA showcases the diversity and vitality of Atlantic Canadian music on a global stage.

There are many events and performances happening throughout the five-day celebration. For all the details see the ECMA Schedule on pages B15–B18 in this issue of The Buzz, visit ecma.com or download the app.

Tickets and passes are now available at ecma.com.

DeeDee Austin, ECMA 2023

• 2 Tickets to Jersey Boys

• 2 Night Stay at The Hampton Inn & Suites Charlottetown

• $200 Food Island Gift Card

• $200 Gas Card

• $50 Tim Hortons Gift Card

• Confederation Bridge Pass

Review by Sean McQuaid

A Tale of Two Cities

RENT

Florence Simmons Performance Hall April 11, 2024

In publicizing its revival of the late Jonathan Larson’s 1996 musical RENT, ACT (A Community Theatre) has noted how modern PEI’s homelessness problem echoes the challenges faced by New Yorkers in this classic show. True enough, though that’s only part of how late 20th Century New York City and early 21st Century Charlottetown have begun to overlap.

Charlottetown has changed a lot since RENT’s off-Broadway debut (followed by a long Broadway run, Pulitzer and Tony Awards, a movie adaptation and assorted revivals). That’s partly the dark side of progress, as PEI’s growing capital drifts into big-city problems like housing shortages; but Charlottetown is also more multicultural and diverse than it was decades ago, including a larger and more visible 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Today’s PEI capital looks and feels much more like Larson’s milieu than 1990s Charlottetown ever did, so the musical seems timelier and more accessible for Island audiences now than it might have in its heyday.

Set in late 1980s Manhattan and loosely based on Giacomo Puccini’s classic 1896 opera La bohème, RENT depicts lower-class East Village artists struggling to pay the bills while dealing with urban gentrification, rising rents, drug addiction, romantic entanglements, artistic dilemmas and the encroaching menace of AIDS. Alternately raucous and bleak but always alive, it’s a coarse, earthy, funny, sometimes moving story with memorable tunes like contemplative earworm “Seasons of Love” (the “525,600 minutes” song), performed well here.

Directed by Maggie Wright with musical direction by Jamie Feinberg and choreography by Charlee Whitty, ACT’s impressive, entertaining production features an impressionistic, multi-location jumble of a set that’s both visually engaging (especially its radiant, larger-than-life moon) and logistically functional. There’s a lot of moving parts here, all meshing smoothly under the guidance of the directors, Whitty and stage manager Sarah Bruce.

Chief among those moving parts is a big cast of 18 actors playing 34 roles. Well-directed, they move easily through the set’s convoluted nooks and crannies, always engaged: up front or in the background, animated or idle, they all inhabit their parts large and small with focus and purpose throughout.

all meshing smoothly under the guidance of the directors

The eight key cast members, the ones whose roles are big enough that they play only one part, are mostly superb. Hayden Lysecki exudes easy, comedic everyman charm as indie filmmaker Mark, Jeremy Hickey is moodily intense as struggling musician Roger, Rebekah Brown is alluringly compelling as troubled dancer Mimi, Ryan Whitty is equally deft with both comedy and tragedy as ramshackle academic Collins, Colin Hood is suitably sour as petty landlord Benny, and Nicole Brenner is a bristling ball of frustration as tightly-wound lawyer Joanne, the long-suffering girlfriend of flirtatious, exhibitionist performance artist Maureen, played to scene-stealing perfection by a luminously magnetic, oft-hilarious Allegra Wright. [The role of Angel was played by Lucas Panizzi]. Carter Baird, Jenn Carson, Maryanne Fitzpatrick, Sydney Innis, Keir Malone, Carter McDevitt, Eden McFadden, Melanie Murray, Valerie Reddin and Megan Stewart offer solid support in the smaller parts, notably ACT mainstay Malone’s adroit versatility as five different characters and Stewart making a crowd-pleasing, full-course meal of her bite-size scenes as unscrupulous tabloid journalism executive Alexi Darling.

The show has occasional audibility issues in terms of dialogue or lyrics getting lost in the rocking soundscape of Feinberg’s small-but-mighty pit band; but the audio balance finds the right mix more often that not, ensuring that ACT’s RENT mostly sounds as good as it looks.

The Addams Family

Charlottetown Rural High School musical at Sobey Family Theatre

Charlottetown Rural High School presents The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy in the Sobey Family Theatre at Confederation Centre of the Arts on May 9, 10 and 11 at 7:30 pm.

The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice is based on characters created by Charles Addams, with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and orchestrations by Larry Hochman. confederationcentre.com

dance umbrella

Students present year-end showcase—May 4

LIVE @ the Centre closes out the 2023–2024 season with a performance from dance umbrella students at Confederation Centre of the Arts.

After a full season of training, students will perform their year-end showcase on May 4 at the Sobey Family Theatre. The performance will

feature students of all ages and include a wide range of styles, from ballet to jazz to contemporary and more. There will be a matinee and evening performance. Tickets can be purchased online at confederationcentre.com, via phone at 1-800-565-0278, or in person at the Centre’s box office.

PEI theatre revitilization

New funding available to performing arts venues

Performing arts venues across PEI can access new funding to help modernize their spaces for artists and patrons. As part of the Province’s commitment to building a sustainable arts, culture and creative sector, Innovation PEI will provide up to $30K to eligible Island venues through Encore! The PEI Theatre Revitalization Program. Grants will be made available to maintain existing performance spaces and develop different strategies to support their continued operations. The three funding streams include the Performance Venue Grant (up to $30K), Developing Audience Engagement Grant (up to $20K), and Developing Engaging Content Grant (up to $10K).

Applications for the revitalization program will be open until October 31 at princeedwardisland.ca/en/service/ encore-prince-edward-island-theatre-revitalization-program.

“IT WAS ONLY IN THE THEATRE THAT I LIVED” —Oscar Wilde

CompassTech

LOUISE VESSEY

dance umbrella showcase, 2023

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

…continued from page B2

May 9–11 | 8 pm

The Journey: A Night of Martin Sexton

Feat. Logan Richard, Alicia Toner, Joce Reyome, Mike Ross and Craig Fair. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 10 | 7:30 pm

Fandango On Stage Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 10 | 7:30 pm

Amabile Singers: To Spring St. Peter’s Cathedral, Charlottetown

May 10 | 8 pm

Setting Day: Barra MacNeils Live!

Zion Presbyterian, Charlottetown

May 11 | 2:30 pm

Sirens: Into the Spin Park Royal United, Charlottetown

May 11 | 8 pm

Whitney Rose with band Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 12 | 2:30 pm

Forte Men’s Choir: Sing My Child

Mother’s Day Concert. Kirk of St. James, Charlottetown

May 12 | 1 pm

Dolly Parton Mother’s Day

Feat. Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 15 | 7:30 pm

The Jack Pine Folk Club

With host Shane Pendergast. Feat. The Old Beef Stringband, Dennis Mackenzie and poet Jo Godden. Pourhouse, Charlottetown

May 15 | 8 pm

Boy Golden

With Fontine. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 15, 16 | 6:30

Tales of Stubble & Strength

A monologue performance uplifting male survivors of sexual assault. The Guild, Charlottetown

May 15–Oct 15 | select dates

Anne & Gilbert, The Musical Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

May 16 | 8 pm

Island Jazz Macabre with Dotty Davis

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

May 17 | 7 pm

Jeanie & Charles

Album launch party. Pourhouse, Charlottetown

May 17 | 7 pm

Hoist the Sails

Variety show with The Saltys (A Shanty Group), The Becks, The Weiler Family, special guests Sylvia Mutch and Joey Rowledge, and more. Central Christian, Charlottetown

May 17 | 7:30 pm

The Slocan Ramblers

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 17 | 7:30 pm

The Fabulously Rich Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

May 17 | 8 pm

Comedian Jon Dore

PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

May 17, 18 | 8 pm

Gypsy

Tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 18

Danspirations

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 18 | 7:30 pm

Styx

Credit Union Place, Summerside

May 18 | 8 pm

Lady Soul

10-year anniversary celebration. Pourhouse, Charlottetown

May 18 | 8 pm

Denny & Benny

Dennis Ellsworth with special guest Benny Von. Harmony House, Hunter River

May 19 | 8 pm

Nudie & Shane

Feat. Nudie and Shane Pendergast. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 21 | 8 pm

Chris Webby

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 22 | 8 pm

Nathalie Duguay Band

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 23| 7:30 pm

Brian Pitafie: Funny as Puck

Tour

Feat. Brian Pitafie, Milton NG and Hector Rivas. The Mack, Charlottetown

May 23 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Teresa Doyle

Quintet

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

May 23 | 8 pm

LACUNA presents: Maïa Davies

With Noah Malcolm. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 23, 24

Matilda Junior: The Musical

Presented by Athena Consolidated School.

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 24 | 7:30 pm

Pride Comedy Night

Feat. Britt Campbell and special guests. Brothers 2, Summerside

May 24 | 8 pm

Amanda Jackson & Route 225

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 25 | 7 pm

Dahlia Ave

Park Royal United, Charlottetown

May 25 | 7 pm

Winterjazz: Nathan Wiley Pourhouse, Charlottetown

May 25 | 7:30 pm

Rory Gardiner

Music and Comedy. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

May 25 | 7:30 pm

Side Hustle Improv

The Guild, Charlottetown

May 25 | 9:30 pm

Rockers for Recovery

Fundraiser for Lennon House and Compassion First Care feat. Shipwrecks, Powerhouse, Vaettir, Noyz, and Swamp River. Silver Fox, Summerside

May 25 | 7:30 pm

Jimmy the Janitor

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 25 | 7:30 pm

Logan Richard

With special guests Moira & Claire. Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

May 26 | 2 pm

International Children’s Memorial Place Fundraising Concert

Feat. Terry Kelly, The Ross Family and Leon Gallant. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 26 | 2 pm

Stratford Community Choir spring concert

Spring Park United, Charlottetown

May 26 | 2 pm

Fiddlers’ Sons West River United, Cornwall

May 26 | 7:30 pm

Project X

UPEI Performing Arts Centre, Charlottetown

May 26 | 8 pm

Death from Above 1979 Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 29 | 8 pm

Chastity: Trilogy Tour

Album release. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 30 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Harmony Wagner & Rob Drew

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

May 30 | 8 pm

A Tribute to Talking Heads

Featuring members of Coyote, Sorrey and Calm Baretta. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 31 | 7:30 pm

Fiddle Fandamonium II

Feat. Richard Wood, Howie MacDonald, Melissa Gallant, Roy Johnstone and Beverly MacLean. Centre 150, Summerside

May 31 | 7:30 pm

Dave Gunning & J.P. Cormier Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 31 | 7:30 pm

The Country Legends Tribute Show

Feat. Gordon Cormier and Dave Pike. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

May 31 | 8 pm

Little Barry Cooke and The Blue Devils

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

…continued on page B10

Outdoor Amphitheatre

Indigenous stories, Island Steps and Carribean dance The

Dynamic shows from Island performers will bring lively dance and music to downtown Charlottetown this summer at Confederation Centre of the Arts. The 2024 Charlottetown Festival will feature two productions at the Centre’s Outdoor Amphitheatre, a venue known for accessible and family-friendly performances.

Celebrating over a decade as Atlantic Canada’s premier Indigenous theatre company, the Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors return to The Charlottetown Festival for the fourth year with the new show Rhythms and Stories of the Red Earth. The performance will share the history of Indigenous peoples on Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island) through stories, songs and beautiful traditional dance. This fun and interactive show features colourful regalia, traditional instruments, and teachings for all ages. Performances run at noon on select dates from July 4–26.

The Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors company includes Caleb Acorn, Keegan Bernard, Rory Cote, Tristan Harrison, Mike Julian, Britt Lush, Sean Lush, Alex Maclean, Julie PellissierLush, and Richard Pellissier-Lush. They are joined by several local youth, including Caseon Acorn, Makayla Bernard, Warren Bernard, Stakayla Brown, Ellie Bourque, Liam Bourque, Sophia Bourque, Esme Davidson,

Paisley Labobe, Talia Labobe, Miah Lush, Aandeg MacDonald, Jaylynn Tuplin, Bailey Sark, Layla Sark, Taite Wooldridge, and Taya Wooldridge.

In August, the acclaimed Roberts Academy of Dance and Xclusiv Crew will collaborate for the new production Island Steps. This high-energy dance show explores the fusion of traditional Island step with Caribbean and South American movement, demonstrat ing how diverse cultures can come together and share their love for dance.

Performances run at noon on select dates from August 1–30.

The company of Island Steps features dancers from both groups, including Margaret 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 asso ciate artistic director at Confederation Centre of the Arts.

Dancers are preparing for the performance by training in each other’s disciplines, with step dancers embracing Caribbean movement and vice-versa.

Admission to both performances at the Outdoor Amphitheatre is free, with donations welcome.

The company of Mi’kmaq Voices, 2022 (above) and the company of Island Steps, 2024

DANCING

E&A Social Dance

A social dance presented by E&A featuring Kim Albert and Faces will take place at the Charlottetown Fire Station at 89 Kent Street on May 4 at 8 pm. Reservations are required in advance by calling 902-201-5900 or 514-570-3169.

Downstreet programming

Downstreet Dance is a full non-profit studio offering a variety of solo and couples classes for ages 18+ and a partner is not needed. The upcoming dance class schedule includes: Zumba at 7:30 am and 5 pm on Mondays; Bellydancing at 6:30 pm on Tuesdays; 1940’s Swing for Continuing Dancers at 7:30 pm on Tuesdays; Zumba at 7:30 am on Wednesdays; Tango at 5:30 pm on Wednesdays; ConfiDANCE at 7:30 pm on Wednesdays; Salsa at 5:30 pm on Thursdays; Classic Burlesque at 7:30 pm on Thursdays; Line Dancing at 1:30 pm on Saturdays; Beginner West Coast Swing at 5 pm on Saturdays; West Coast Fundamentals at 5 pm on Saturdays; West Coast Swing Choreography at 6 pm on Saturdays; West Coast Swing Level 1 at 7 pm on Saturdays; Salsa Rueda at 6 pm on Sundays; and Dance Your You at 7:30 pm on May 26. Info: downstreetdance.com

Dance studio volunteer meeting

Downstreet Dance is a full non-profit studio and volunteers are needed to help keep things running smoothly. Once everyone is signed in, volunteers are welcome to join the class for free. Volunteer hours can go towards credit hours for different volunteer programs. Learn more at the next volunteer info meeting on May 7 at 5:30 pm. 101 Grafton St, 2nd floor, Charlottetown. Info: downstreetdance@gmail.com

FallBack’s dance series

Dance to 50s and 60s rock ’n’ roll music at FallBack’s Spring Ahead Dance Series. The weekly dances run from 8–11 pm on Thursdays until May 30 in the Empire Room at the Loyalist Country Inn in Summerside. FallBack is a six-piece group compiled of Scott White, Dale Gaudet, Tom DesRoches, Johnny Ross, Wayne Robichaud and Steve Guy. The band performs hit songs from artists like Elvis, Buddy Holly, Beach Boys, Chuck Berry, and many more. Admission is at the door, which opens at 7:30 pm. These are 19+ events. Each night there is a 50/50 draw with proceeds going to the local food bank.

Irish set dance sessions

Irish Set Dance Sessions continue on Sundays from 1–3 pm until May 26 at York Point Community Centre, 346 York Point Road, Cornwall. Dance to traditional Irish reels, polkas, jigs and more. This is social dancing for fun, not for performance. Experienced instructors and dancers guide participants through easy to learn partner dances. Couples and singles are welcome. No previous dance experience is required and all levels of dance experience are welcome. Participants should wear lightweight, smooth sole footwear and comfortable clothing. Info: fredchorne@gmail.com

201 Wing social and dance

A Royal Canadian Air Force Association Social and Dance sponsored by 201 (Confederation) Wing will be held at the Malcolm Darrach Community Centre on May 19 from 1–4 pm. Entertainment will be provided by We3 and a light lunch will be served. Admission is at the door. All are welcome. Info: Debbie Reid (902367-0450). 1 Avonlea Dr, Charlottetown.

Downstreet Social Dance

This month’s Downstreet Social Dance is happening on May 18 from 8–10 pm. Social dances are an opportunity to practice the skills and moves learned in class and to see what else the dance world has to offer. There are a variety of styles, including West coast swing, lindy hop, salsa, and more. All levels and styles of dance are welcome. See what the studio is about and meet some local dance enthusiasts. Info: downstreetdance@ gmail.com. 101 Grafton St, second floor, Charlottetown.

Anne & Gilbert

Rebekah Brown and Graysen LaPointe star in 20th season

Anne and Gilbert, The Musical, celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024 with a return to the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown this May, with both Anne and Gilbert played by new actors.

Rebekah Brown, hailing from Bayside, PEI, takes on the role of Anne.Despite her youth, Brown’s maturity and charm allow her to delve into Anne’s character as she navigates the challenges of young adulthood, courtship, and career. Aware of the historical context, Brown acknowledges the fine line she treads as a 21st-century woman portraying a character from the 1890s, emphasizing empathy for the struggles faced by women of that era.

Confident in her ability to portray Anne’s complexity, Brown’s positive energy and long-standing commitment to dyeing her hair “Anne red” since age 15 add depth to her performance.

but who is determined to chart her own course.

Opposite Brown, Graysen LaPointe, from Fredericton, NB, steps into the role of Gilbert, understanding his supporting role alongside Anne.

Brown and LaPointe have good chemistry and an easy rapport, a good sign that the young pair will be able to convey the playful dynamic between a thoughtful and focused young man and a woman who is led by the heart,

Project X

Brown recognizes the importance of conveying Anne’s unspoken energy and proto-feminism throughout the performance, ensuring an authentic portrayal that will resonate with today’s audiences.

Performances of Anne and Gilbert, The Musical run from May 15 to October 15. Tickets are available at tproatlantic.ticketpro.ca.

Variety dance show at UPEI Performing Arts Centre—May 26

Project X, a variety dance show presented by Xclusiv Crew will be performed at the UPEI Performing Arts Centre in Charlottetown on May 26 at 7:30 pm.

The show, created by Xclusive Crew owners Joe Dames and Dawn Ward-Dames, will feature local talents such as magician Ethan Ross, drag queen Tori Nylon, Michael Jackson

impersonator Leon Gardiner, and the UPEI Dance Club.

This is not a 19+ event, however there is adult content, so parental guidance is advised. Tickets are available at Upstreet Craft Brewing and Craft Beer Corner, as well as at the door.

Follow Xclusiv Crew on IG at @xclusiv.crew for updates or email xclusivcrewbookings@gmail.com.

Rebeka Brown (left) and Graysen LaPoite

Xclusive Crew dance company

Souris Show Hall summer

Full lineup focuses on community and culture

Tucked away just off Main Street, with a view of the water, the Souris Show Hall, a venue now owned and operated by local residents, is gearing up for a summer of music and storytelling. This season, the Hall will host an array of musicians, from well-known Canadian artists to emerging talents, offering something for every music enthusiast.

Setting the tone for the season, the summer lineup kicks off with Jenn Grant on June 15. Other highlights include Portuguese singer-songwriter Nico Paulo bringing her unique melodies to Souris on July 20, and the ever-popular PEI duo Salt Water Dollies will return on July 27 with their blend of traditional fiddling and beautiful vocal harmonies.

Saltwater Hank—an Indigenous folk and country artist from the West Coast, whose latest album is written entirely in the Ts’msyen language Sm’algyax, will perform on August 1. On August 10, Jing Xia, a virtuoso of the Guzheng, will take the stage, offering a mesmerizing experience with her traditional Chinese instrument, and JUNO Award winning songwriter Catherine MacLellan will continue the musical journey on August 22.

The season will continue in September with two standout performances. Charlottetown group Inn Echo, known for their dynamic blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, will perform on September 7. The legendary Lennie Gallant will perform on September 5.

Adding to the musical offerings, Souris Show Hall will also host two songwriter circles. These special events are designed to spotlight emerging talents, providing a platform for up-and-coming artists to shine alongside established names, offering unique evenings where fresh voices can share their craft in an intimate and supportive environment. These nights will be hosted by Nick Doneff and take place on July 4 and September 15. In addition, the Souris Show Hall is initiating a new Songwriter-in-Residence program in partnership with Music PEI in order to foster emerging talent. Now community-owned and operated, the Souris Show Hall aspires to

be a beacon of cultural enrichment and entertainment in Eastern Kings. It not only serves as a gathering place for art lovers but also plays a pivotal role in supporting and nurturing local talent. This summer’s lineup is a testament to the Hall’s commitment to delivering diverse and high-quality performances that resonate with and enrich the community.

Visit sourisshowhall.com for more information on the full lineup and schedule, ticket purchases, or to keep up with upcoming announcements.

The Mousetrap

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre—May 9 to 11

PEI’s newest community theatre company, Seaside Theatre, is debuting with Agatha Christie’s renowned murder mystery, The Mousetrap, at the Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside on May 9, 10, and 11.

Written by Guinness World Record holder Agatha Christie, the play, running since 1952, has captivated over 10 million audiences in London alone. Set in an English countryside guest house during a snowstorm, the plot unfolds as a murder occurs, trapping the owners and six strangers.

Directed by Stuart Smith, the production features seasoned community theatre talents alongside fresh faces.

Seaside Theatre Company aims to foster community engagement through diverse theatrical experiences, employing color-blind and gender-blind casting practices.

Tickets and further details are available at collegeofpiping.com.

Conderation Centre survey

Seeking feedback from all Islanders

Confederation Centre of the Arts has launched a survey to learn more about how Island residents interact with the Centre and to identify opportunities and areas for improvement. The 2024 Audience Engagement Survey will help the Centre to understand Islanders’ participation in Centre programs like theatre, visual arts, live music and arts education, and will help identify ways to better connect with Islanders. The survey will also request demographic information to help identify who is and who is not participating in Centre activities in a rapidly changing province.

The Centre, along with the federal and provincial governments, recently announced plans for a $65 million renovation of the former library space in the Centre’s south pavilion. That project will see the creation of the National Cultural Leadership Institute which will expand the heritage and arts education programs offered by the Centre and will create a national hub for the creation of new works, and building capacity in the culture sector

of Atlantic Canada.

“By completing this survey, Island residents have an opportunity to help us see what’s working, and what could improve,” says Andrew Sprague, the Centre’s director of communications and community engagement. “The Centre is proud to be PEI’s national cultural centre, so we’d like to hear from as many Islanders as possible – long-time residents, newcomers, young, and old—about how we can best connect with Islanders.”

To fill out the survey visit confederationcentre.com/survey. Everyone who completes the survey and enters the contest will have a chance to win a one night stay at the Holman Grand, two tickets to a 2024 Charlottetown Festival show, and a restaurant gift card.

Jenn Grant (left) and Saltwater Hank are two of the many performers this season

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

…continued from page B6

May 31, June 1, 7, 8 | 8 pm

Ladies of the Canyon

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

June 1 | 7:30 pm The Hounds

Tribute to Tyler Childers. Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

June 1 | 3 pm/7 pm, 2 | 2 pm/7 pm

Shrek: The Musical

Presented by Havenwood Studios. Carrefour Theatre, Charlottetown

June 1, 2

Daniel Champagne

June 1, 7:30 pm: The Guild, Charlottetown

June 2, 3 pm: Souris Show Hall, Souris

June 2 | 8 pm

20 Eyes

With Green Eyes, Witch Hands. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 6 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Rob Oakie Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

June 6 | 8 pm

Union Duke

With special guest Nick Doneff. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 6–27 | Thu & Fri, 7:30 pm Country Roads

Craig Fair Music production feat. Lawrence Maxwell, Brooke MacArthur, Brad Milligan, Anna Vail, Pierce Clarke and Marli Trecartin. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

June 7 | 8 pm

Blink 902

Tribute to Blink 182. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 7 | 8 pm

Glimmer & Glow

Hosted by Tori Nylon. Featuring queens Alexas Styles, Brooke Rivers, Elle Noir, Heckella Jeckyll, Trinity Foxx, and Vera Getty. Red Shores, Charlottetown

June 8 | 8 pm

Bobcaygeon

Tribute to The Tragically Hip. The Guild, Charlottetown

June 8 | 7:30 pm

Hotel California: The Original Eagles Tribute

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

June 13 | 8 pm

Island Jazz Quartet plays Strayhorn & The Duke

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

June 14 | 8 pm

Jim Henman (April Wine)

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 14, 15 | 7:30 pm

The Grand Tour: Timeless Country Classics

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

June 14–23

PEI Mutual Festival of Small Halls

PEI Mutual Festival of Smalls Halls

Feat. Montuno Cubano, Sirène et Matelot, Maukin, Encore Dance Troupe & Roberts Academy of Dancers, Catherine MacLellan, Andrea Ramolo, Inn Echo, Luka Hall, Beauxmont, Dave and Jud Gunning, Logan Richard Band, Cassie and Maggie, Emilea

May ft Justyn Thyme, The Vaudevillian, Richard Wood, The Bombadils, James Mullinger, Patrick Lewell, Deborah Kimmett, Kellie Loder, Lucy Farrell, Abigail Lapell, Fiddlers’ Sons, Heidi Brander, TzuCheng Wang, Tiffany Liu, The Lumber Jills, STRUM, Kaia Kater, Tim Chaisson, Atlantic String Machine, Gadelle, Mary Frances and Michael Leahy, The Three Tellers, Cynthia MacLeod Trio, Nick vanOuwerkerk, Jake Charron, Remi and Family, Alicia Toner, Meaghan Blanchard, Joce Reyome, Brielle Ansems, and more. Small halls across pei. smallhalls.com (see Buzz page B12 for full schedule)

June 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 | 8 pm

Inside Americal Pie

Harmony House, Hunter River

June 15 | 7:30 pm

Jenn Grant

Souris Show Hall, Souris

June 15 | 8 pm

19th Nervous Breakdowns

Tribute to Rolling Stones. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 16 | 1 pm

Blues Matinee with The Logan Richard Band

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 16 | 8 pm

Dave & Jud Gunning Father’s Day Show

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 19–Aug 31 | select dates

Anne of Green Gables—The Musical™

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

June 20 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Ken Fornetran Trio

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

June 20, 21 | 8 pm

Afte Hours Band

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 21 | 7:30 pm

Jeff Leeson: The Unscripted Tour

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

June 25–Aug 31

Same Time, Next Year

Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

June 22

Halifax Gay Men’s Chorus

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

June 22 | 7:30 pm

Green River Revival: CCR

Tribute

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

June 22 | 8 pm

Skydiggers

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 23

Mass for Shout-Outs by Tanya Davis

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

June 25–Sept 21 | select dates Jersey Boys

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

June 27 | 8 pm

Island Jazz plays Pat Metheny

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

June 27 | 8 pm

D.O.A.

With Mvll Crimes and Cell Deth. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 28

Joel Plaskett

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

June 27, 28 | 7:30 pm

Lennie Gallant

June 27: Kings Playhouse

June 28: Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

June 29–July 1 | 8 pm

Dancing Queen

Tribute to ABBA. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

June 30

Philip Chiu

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

June 30 | 8 pm

Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance Credit Union Place

July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 | 8 pm

C’mon In!: Atlantic Canada’s Best Kitchen Party Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

July 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 25–28 | 8 pm

July 27 | 2 pm

The 27 Club

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

July 4

Songwriters Circle Souris Show Hall, Souris

July 4 | 8 pm

Island Jazz Harp feat. Caedda Enright

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

July 4–26 | 12 pm

Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors: Rhythms and Stories of the Red Earth

Outdoor Amphitheatre, Confederation Centre, Charlottetown

July 4–Aug 24 | select dates

Becoming Dolly

The Mack, Charlottetown

July 5–7

37th PEI Bluegrass & Old Time Music Festival

Feat. Nick Chandler & Delivered, Joe Hott & The Short Mountain Boys, Bluegrass Tradition, Ray Legere & Acoustic Horizon, Ivan Rosenberg & The Hound Dog Ramblers, Janet McGarry Band, The Stiff Family, Bluestreak, Whitecap Drive, Just Grass, SK Bluegrass, Heartfelt Bluegrass and Bluegrass Revival. Dundas Fairgrounds, Dundas

Jon Dore

Live at PEI Brewing Company—May 17

Whitecap Entertainment presents Comedian Jon Dore live at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on May 17 at 8 pm.

Winner of the 2023 JUNO Award for Best Comedy Album and named one of “10 comics to watch” by Variety Magazine, Dore is renowned for his offbeat humour and unique bait-andswitch style.

He is a favourite on the comedy club and festival circuit. Audiences have seen him on Just for Laughs, Comedy Central, Conan, Baroness Von Sketch Show, @Midnight, Inside Amy Schumer, Hart of Dixie, a

guest starring role on How I Met Your Mother, and more.

This is a 19+ event. Visit peibrewingcompany.com for tickets.

Glimmer & Glow

With host Tori Nylon at Red Shores in July

Celebrate Pride Month at Glimmer & Glow, hosted by Tori Nylon, at Red Shores in Charlottetown on June 7.

Experience a drag extravaganza featuring Alexas Styles, Brooke Rivers, Elle Noir, Heckella Jeckyll, Trinity Foxx, and Vera Getty.

Pride Comedy Night

Brothers 2 in Summerside— May 24

Britt Campbell

Join Pride PEI for a night of laughs at Pride Comedy Night on May 24 at Brothers 2 in Summerside.

Britt Campbell and special guests take the stage at 7:30 pm. Contact info@pridepei.ca for tickets and details.

VIP Meet & Greet kicks off at 7 pm, followed by a spectacular show at 8 pm. Secure tickets by calling 902-6204264 or visiting redshores.ca.

Side Hustle: Live Improv

All-women troupe at The Guld—May 25

Side Hustle, PEI’s only all-women improv troupe, returns to The Guild on May 25 at 7:30 pm with all original, made up on the spot entertainment. Side Hustle’s shows are filled with laughter, spontaneity and many moments of comic genius. theguildpei.com

John Dore

Tory Nylon

2024 SHOW SCHEDULE

JUNE 14

THURSDAY MAY 09

FRIDAY MAY 10

FRIDAY MAY 10

SATURDAY MAY 11

SUNDAY MAY 12

PRESENTED BY

Party at the Pearl

VALLEY PEARL OYSTER CO, TYNE VALLEY

DOORS: 6:00PM · DINNER & SHOW: 6:30PM

A four course meal featuring Island Lobster and Valley Pearl Oysters. Raise a glass and have a laugh with our special guest comedian, Patrick Ledwell.

Island Chef Showcase

DELTA HOTEL, CHARLOTTETOWN · START: 5:30PM

14 Chefs from all over PEI come together to celebrate the best the Island has to offer. Be treated to an all-you-can-eat roving-feast of fresh Island hors d’oeuvres.

Barra MacNeils Live!

ZION PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

DOORS: 8:00PM · SHOW: 8:30PM

An unforgettable evening with multi-award winning Celtic ambassadors; The Barra MacNeils! Get ready to stomp your feet and clap your hands.

Freshest Lobster Feast

DELTA HOTEL, CHARLOTTETOWN

RECEPTION: 5:30PM · MEAL: 6:00PM

Island Chef Extraordinaire Adam Loo has prepared a mouth-watering

5 course menu featuring a whole one pound fresh PEI lobster. To top it all off, an unforgettable concert from Island group 6 Hearts.

Mothers Day Brunch

COPPER BOTTOM BREWING, MONTAGUE SEATINGS AT 10:30AM & 2:00PM

Foodies and Music lovers rejoice! Delightful Mother’s day brunch with traditional Maritime Music from Rachel and Darren of COIG.

Dundas Fairg rounds

260 Li ttle Ri ver R oad, Dunda s, PEI July 5, 6, 7 – 2 2024

Nick Chandler & Delivered USA

Joe Hott & The Short Mountain Band USA

Ray Legere & Acoustic Horizon NB

Ivan Rosenberg & The Hound Dog Ramblers NB

Janet McGarry Band PEI Bluegrass Tradition NS

Bluestreak PEI The Stiff Family PEI

Whitecap Drive PEI Just Grass PEI/NS SK Bluegrass PEI Heartfelt Bluegrass PEI

Bluegrass Revival PEI

p e i b l u e g r a s s . c a 90 2-56 6-26 41 ADVANCE WEEKEND PASSES AVAILABLE UNTIL JUNE 15

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

…continued from page B10

July 5–7

Cavendish Beach Music

Festival

Cavendish

July 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 | 8 pm

July 6, 13, 20 | 2 pm

Inside Americal Pie

Harmony House, Hunter River

Jul 5–Aug 30

Misery

Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

July 6

Chad Matthews Band

Souris Show Hall, Souris

July 6, 13, 20 | 7:30 pm

That’s The Island For Ya Deer

Feat. Michael and Shane Pendergast. Scott MacAulay Performance Centre, Summerside

July 6 | 8 pm

J.P. Cormier

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

July 7

Duo Concertante

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

July 11 | 8 pm

Island Jazz Quartet plays Movie jazz

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

July 11–26 | Thu & Fri, 7:30 pm

Anything for Love: The Music of Meat Loaf

Craig Fair Music production feat. Joce Reyome, Brad Milligan, Marli Trecartin, Brandon Howard Roy and Carrie MacLellan. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

July 12

Gordie MacKeeman & The Rhythm Boys

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

July 13

Terra Spencer Souris Show Hall, Souris

July 13

Elizabeth Shepherd Trio

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

July 14

Maryna Krut

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

July 14 | 7:30 pm

Natalie MacMaster & Donnell

Leahy

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

July 18

Island At Heart

Souris Show Hall, Souris

July 18 | 7:30 pm

Matt Minglewood Band Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

July 18 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Victoria Row Quartet

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

July 18–Aug 15 | Wed & Thu

Highland Storm 2024

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

July 19

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

July 20

Nico Paulo Souris Show Hall, Souris

July 21 | 7:30 pm

Off The Rock: A Tribute to Great Big Sea Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

July 21

SHHH!! Ensemble

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

July 12 | 7:30 pm

From The Heart: A Tribute to Loretta Lynn

Feat. Jolee. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

July 23 | 7:30 pm

Off the Rock: A Tribute to Great Big Sea Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Free event

Separate ticketed event

*Please note the schedule is subject to change. For full scheduling details & door prices please visit ECMA.com

THUR | WED |

○ 7:30 PM

Delta Prince Edward

The 2024 Opening Night Concert presented by Atlantic Lottery in partnership with Noisemaker Management

Featuring performances by The Once, Two Hours Traffic & The East Pointers

2:30 PM

Delta Prince Edward - Ballroom Canadian Music. East Coast Style. Export Showcase

With KINLEY, Kellie Loder, Beauxmont, Reeny Smith & Willie Stratton

○ 8:00 PM

Delta Prince Edward

The 2024 East Coast Music Awards presented by Rogers

10:30 PM

Charlottetown Beer Garden

Amplified at the Beer Garden

With Dali Van Gogh, The Order of the Precious Blood, Death Valley Driver & Orchids Curse

10:30 PM

John Browns

Blame it on my Roots

With Jenny Mallard, Joe H Henry, Witchitaw

Hosted by Rose Cousins & Damhnait Doyle

With performances by The East Pointers, Tara MacLean, Rum Ragged, Morgan Toney, Maggie Andrew, KAYO, Jenn Grant, Émilie Landry, Tim Baker and Lennie Gallant

10:30 PM

Trailside Music Hall

Lyrics & Beats

With Black Rook, Nomad Quinn, Vince The Messenger, City Natives & Albert Dalton

FRI |

12:00 PM

Children’s Stage

Charlottetown Librar y Learning Centre

With The Swinging Belles, Levon the Prince & Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors

5:30 PM

Trailside Music Hall

Tunes & Tales

With Kristen Mar tell (Host), Baraka, Dennis Ellswor th & Braden Lam

6:45 PM

St . Paul’s Church

Friday Night at the Church

With Hailey Smith, Alanna Matty Ian Sher wood, Sirène et Matelot , Scott MacKay & DanieL James McFadyen

7:30 PM

Delta Prince Edward - Ballroom Canadian Music. East Coast

St yle. Expor t Showcase

With Sarah Hagen, Dylan Menzie, Quote the Raven, Tara MacLean & Jenn Grant

8:00 PM

Delta Prince Edward - River view Canadian Music. East Coast

St yle. Expor t Showcase

With Richard Wood, Mar y Beth Carty, Rachel Davis & Darren McMullen, Morgan Toney, Rum Ragged, Villages & Mallor y Johnson

SUN |

11:00 AM

Delta Prince Edward 2024 East Coast Music

Awards Par t ll presented by Canada’s Food Island

9:00 PM

John Browns

Black Vibes presented by ANSMA

With Blessing Tangban, Dee Hernandez and D'Fusion, HARMZ , JupiterReign, Kayo & Mayaya

9:45 PM

Charlottetown Beer Garden

Canadian Music.

East Coast St yle. Expor t Showcase

With Brett Matthews, Plywood Joe, Jessica Rhaye & The Ramshackle Parade, Willie Stratton, Lawrence Maxwell & Lisa Richard

10:00 PM

Trailside Music Hall

Late Night at the Trailside

With Sluice, June Body, Absolute Losers, Before The Dinosaurs & Andre Pettipas and the Giants

11:30 PM

Delta Prince Edward Late Night at the Ballroom

With Rachel Cousins, Burry, Nicole Ariana & Rich Aucoin

○2:30 PM

Delta Prince Edward - River view SOCAN Songwriters’ Circle Showcase

Hosted by Damhnait Doyle and Rose Cousins with Morgan Toney, Emilie Landry Kellie Loder, The East Pointers and Reeny Smith.

♫ 12:00 PM

Victoria Row

Dair y Farmers of Canada ECMA Fan Fest

1:00 PM

John Browns Around the World with ECMA

With Shaun Ferguson, Tzu-Cheng Wang, Gina Burgess, XIA-3 & The Umbrella Collective

♫ 1:00 PM

Salvador Dali Cafe

Blues Matinee presented by East Coast Blues Society

With Dan Doiron Band, Kim Doolittle, Allen Snow & The Quorum, Campbell & Johnston & Joce Reyome

♫ 1:30 PM

St Paul’s Church

Classical Showcase presented by CMC & Debut Atlantic

With Catherine Little, Edward Enman, Essential Opera, Jennifer King & SHHH!! Ensemble

♫ 3:00 PM

Charlottetown Beer Garden Screamin’ Teens

With Dali Van Gogh, The Order of the Precious Blood, Death Valley Driver & Orchid's Curse

5:00 PM

Trailside Music Hall

Tunes & Tales

With Carleton Stone (Host), Christina Mar tin, Charlie A'Cour t & Kylie Fox

SAT | tickets & passes

7:30 PM

Delta Prince Edward - Ballroom Canadian Music. East Coast St yle. Expor t Showcase

With The Swinging Belles, Silver Wolf Band, DeeDee Austin, Lennie Gallant & David Myles

7:30 PM

St . Paul’s Church

Saturday Night at the Church

With Champagne Weather, The Gilber ts, Carolina East , Noah Malcolm & Nico Paulo

♫ 7:45 PM

Salvador Dali Cafe

TD Jazz Night

With Fiona MacGillivray, Jackson\Wilson Duo & Duane Andrews and The Hot Club of Conception Bay

8:00 PM

Delta Prince Edward - Ballroom Canadian Music. East Coast St yle. Expor t Showcase

With Sirène et Matelot , Jah'Mila, Adyn Townes, Beauxmont KINLEY & Vince The Messenger

9:00 PM

John Browns

Late Night at John Browns

With Bradley Murphy, Brad Reid, Wayne Bedecki, Hear ts of Kin, Freya Milliken & Derina Har vey Band

tickets & passes

CHARLOTTETOWN

A ARON MACDONALD / ABSOLUTE LOSERS / ADYN TOWNES / AL ANNA MATTY / ALBERT DALTON / ALLEN SNOW & THE QUORUM

ANDRE PETTIPAS AND THE GIANTS / BARAKA / BEAUXMONT / BEFORE THE DINOSAURS / BL ACK ROOK / BLESSING TANGBAN

BRAD REID / BRADEN L AM / BRADLEY MURPHY / BRETT MATTHEWS / BROOKLYN BL ACKMORE / BURRY / CAMPBELL & JOHNSTON

CARLETON STONE / CAROLINA EAST / CATHERINE LITTLE / CHAMPAGNE WEATHER / CHARLIE A'COURT / CHRISTINA MARTIN

CITY NATIVES / DALI VAN GOGH / DAMHNAIT DOYLE / DAN DOIRON BAND / DANIEL JAMES MCFADYEN / DAVID MYLES

DEATH VALLEY DRIVER / DEE HERNANDEZ AND D'FUSION / DEEDEE AUSTIN / DENNIS ELLSWORTH / DERINA HARVEY BAND

DUANE ANDREWS AND THE HOT CLUB OF CONCEPTION / DYL AN MENZIE / EDWARD ENMAN / ELYSE AERYN / ÉMILIE L ANDRY

ESSENTIAL OPERA / FIONA MACGILLIVRAY / FREYA MILLIKEN / GINA BURGESS / GOOD DEAR GOOD / HALIEY SMITH / HARMZ

HEARTS OF KIN / IAN SHERWOOD / JACKSON\WILSON DUO / JAH'MILA / JENN GRANT / JENNIFER KING / JENNY MALLARD

JESSICA RHAYE & THE RAMSHACKLE PARADE / JOCE REYOME / JOE H HENRY / JUNE BODY / JUPITER REIGN / JUSTIN FANCY

KAYO / KELLIE LODER / KIM DOOLITTLE / KINLE Y / KRISTEN MARTELL / KYLIE FOX / L AURIE LEBL ANC / LAWRENCE MAXWELL

LENNIE GALL ANT / LES MOONTUNES / LISA RICHARD / MAGGIE ANDREW / MALLORY JOHNSON / MARY BETH CART / MAYAYA

MORGAN TONEY / NICK EARLE & THE RECKLESS HEARTS / NICO PAULO / NICOLE ARIANA / NOAH MALCOLM / NOMAD QUINN

ORCHID'S CURSE / PLYWOOD JOE / QUOTE THE RAVEN / RACHEL COUSINS / RACHEL DAVIS & DARREN MCMULLEN / REENY SMITH

RICH AUCOIN / RICHARD WOOD / ROSE COUSINS / RUM RAGGED / SARAH HAGEN / SCOTT MACKAY / SHAUN FERGUSON

SHHH!! ENSEMBLE / SIRÈNE ET MATELOT / SLUICE / TARA MACLEAN / THE EAST POINTERS / THE GILBERTS / THE MAINL ANDERS

THE ORDER OF THE PRECIOUS BLOOD / THE SWINGING BELLES / THE UMBRELLA COLLECTIVE / TIM BAKER / TZU-CHENG WANG VILLAGES / VINCE THE MESSENGER / WAYNE BEDECKI / WILLIE STRATTON / WITCHITAW / XIA-3

Cloggeroo #11

Festival brings world class music to Three Rivers in August

Cloggeroo is bringing Bruce’s saxophone player Jake Clemons Clemons, direct from Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band’s World Tour, to Cloggeroo this summer.

Clemons is a gifted singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist—a true magnet for positive energy and emotion. The Jake Clemons Band of top Canadian musicians will be on the Cloggeroo stage August 10 at Georgetown’s West Street Park in Three Rivers.

Jake Clemons has become a familiar figure around the world, spending the last 12 years as the tenor and baritone saxophonist with Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band, including appearing on Springsteen’s album Letter To You and the companion

Apple TV documentary. He has also recorded and/or performed with The Killers, Eddie Vedder, Glen Hansard, and more.

The Cloggeroo Music Festival brings a full weekend of music August 9–11. Joining Clemons in the lineup are The Sadies, Dave Sampson, Dee Dee Austin, Jah’Mila, The Hypochondriacs, Old Man Luedecke, Steve Somers, the Converts, and the funky jazz of Christine Tassan et les Imposteures.

The Sunday blues show in the Boggeroo Blues Tent at Bogside Brewing is headlined by Monkey Junk, Theresa Malenfant, and Amanda Jackson featuring Route 225.

Tickets will be on sale in early May. Check cloggeroo.com and watch for social media posts for updates.

Denny & Benny

Dennis Ellsworth with Benny Von at Harmony House—May 18

Denny & Benny—Dennis Ellsworth with special guest Benny Von—are set to perform an evening of their original music at Harmony House in Hunter River on May 18. This evening of songs and stories from two PEI songwriters will begin at 8 pm.

It has been almost a decade since Ellsworth performed at Harmony House. He will play with a small but mighty band to present songs from his most recent ECMA-nominated album, Modern Hope, as well as songs from his past albums and projects.

Ellsworth has invited Benny Von to be his guest. Benny has just released his debut single “PEI Waltz” and he is generating a lovely buzz around it. He is a performer with a terrific voice and fresh sounding material.

Rory Gardiner

Musician and comedian at Kings Playhouse—May 25

Fresh off the 2024 season of Canada’s Got Talent, musician and comedian Rory Gardiner brings his show to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on May 25 at 7:30 pm.

As a musician, he is a CCMA nominated country artist who has shared the stage with a number of great country acts, including Keith Urban. As a stand up comedian, his short form videos have over 100 million views across all platforms and his comedy sketches have been featured on Funny or Die and America’s Funniest Videos. Catch his hilarious 2019 TEDx Talk on using humour as a coping mechanism.

In this crowd-engaging, one-man show, Gardiner untangles life in suburbia, raising kids, marriage, ageing parents, dogs and mother nature. Don’t have kids? Consider this performance “comedy birth control.”

Doors open at 6:30 pm. Visit kingsplayhouse.com or call 902-652-2053 for tickets.

Daniel Champagne

Australian artist brings his spring tour to PEI—June 1 and 2

For the Atlantic Canada leg of his spring tour, Australian virtuoso Daniel Champagne will return to The Guild in Charlottetown on June 1 at 7:30 pm and also make a stop at Souris Show Hall in Souris on June 2 at 3 pm.

Tickets are available online through harmonyhousepei.com or by calling the box office at 1-888-311-9090.

Growing up in the Bega Valley, on the Far South Coast of New South Wales, Australia, the story goes that the young singer-songwriter and one-of-a-kind guitar virtuoso first picked up his instrument of choice as a five year old following in the footsteps of a musical father. Champagne began writing songs at age 12, training classically throughout his teens and performing wherever he could, honing his craft and developing the dynamite live show that he is renowned for today. At age 18, he finished school, turned professional, and hit the road without looking back. The following 15 years have seen him independently release seven studio albums, tour relentlessly around

the globe, play some of the biggest festivals and share stages with the likes of Tommy Emmanuel, INXS, John Butler, Lucinda Williams, Ani DiFranco, Judy Collins and Rodrigo y Gabriela. Playing upwards of 250 shows a year, Champagne is passionate about spreading live music around the world. theguildpei.com sourisshowhall.com

LISA MACINTOSH

Jake Clemons will headline on Saturday night of this year’s festival

SUBMITTED

Daniel Champagne

Denny Benny

Rory Gardiner

Music PEI Awards

A recap of winners from the 2024 celebrations in March

Twenty-five awards were presented to Island musicians and industry people at the 2024 Music PEI Week Awards Gala at Sobey Family Theatre in Charlottetown in March. The following is the complete list of winners:

SWENN Album of the Year (OTY): The East Pointers—Safe in Sound The Buzz Album Art OTY: Inn Echo: Hemispheres (Graphic Designer Jud Haynes)

Hijinks Design Agency Digital Presence Award: Noah Malcolm Rising Tide Community Fund Lloyd Doyle New Artist OTY: Absolute Losers—At the Mall

Stay Golden Custom Recording Sector Award: Colin Buchanan

Terra Nova Fund Achievement in Classical/ Jazz Music: Sirens Choral Association Inc.

SOCAN Songwriter OTY: Dylan Menzie

ECMA Single OTY: Tara acLean—Sparrow ExamOne Atlantic Music Video OTY: Nadia—”Intertwine” (directed by Griffin O’toole)

Olde Dublin Pub Contemporary/Traditional

Roots Recording OTY: Sirène et Matelot— Un Monde de Dissonances

Discover Charlottetown Rock Recording

OTY: Liam Corcoran—Hints and Traces

GFL Environmental R&B/Soul Recording OTY: The Umbrella Collective—Welcome to Studio UC!

Arsenault Best Cameron Ellis Pop Recording OTY: Noah Malcolm—Feel the Same

Downtown Charlottetown Rap/ HipHop Recording OTY: The Umbrella

Collective Welcome to Studio UC!

SaltWire Entertainer OTY: Lawrence

Maxwell

Maritime Electric Live Sector Award:

Canada Games IllumiNATION Festival

Collège De L’Île Prix de L’Acadie: Sirène et Matelot

Diversecity Festival Achievement in World Music: Tiffany Liu

City of Charlottetown Leo Cheverie

Community Contributor OTY: Mi’kmaq

Heritage Actors

Long & McQuade Educator OTY: Alan

Dowling

Sara Roach Lewis: SRL Solutions

Industry Person OTY: Alyssa Gallant

Atlantic Lottery Lifetime Achievement Award: Chris Roumbanis

CYMBA Music Publishing Live Music

Production Professional OTY: Sergey Varlamov

Caledonia House Rooted to The Island:

Jenn Grant

Holland College Musician OTY: Hannah Melanson

Sing into Spring

Summerside Community Choir concert—May 5

The Summerside Community Choir presents their Sing Into Spring concert at Trinity United in Summerside on May 5 at 3 pm.

The repertoire from Music Director Ruth Ann Read-Clay includes sacred and secular songs that welcome spring in all it’s myriad facets—sunny to stormy.

Sing My Child

Mother’s Day concert with Forte Men’s Choir—May 12

Forte Men’s Choir presents Sing My Child, a special Mother’s Day concert on May 12 at 2:30 pm at the Kirk of St. James in downtown Charlottetown.

Directed by Dr. Margot Rejskind, Forte is the 16-member choir with the unique blend of male (TTBB) voices. Piano accompaniment is provided by Jacqueline Sorenson Young.

Rejskind has designed a varied concert program, mixing pieces that are traditional and new, gentle and

Pipes and Pizza

An introduction to the world of the pipe organ—June 8

St. Dunstan’s Basilica is inviting parents to bring their children to attend their special Pipes and Pizza event on June 8, a fun introduction to the world of the pipe organ. The start time for the event is 11:30 am.

Sponsored by the Royal Canadian College of Organists, together with the Queen’s County Music Festival, this hands-on event is an opportunity for music students ages eight and up to go behind the scenes and see how the pipe organ actually works.

Organist Leo Marchildon and organ student Jason Chen will demonstrate

A native of Summerside, ReadClay is the founder and conductor of Amabile Singers, based in Charlottetown, PEI.

Tickets are available from choir members and at the door which opens at 2:30 pm. Visit @SummersideChoir on FB or email sumchoir@gmail.com for more information.

powerful, comforting and quirky. This concert program ranges from a Billy Joel lullaby, through two powerful biblically-based chants, to the fun novelty of Henry Mancini’s “Pink Panther.” Forte will perform “Mothering Sunday” in honour of the British custom, which originated in medieval times—the Sunday on which one honours their ‘mother church’ where they were baptised. Inspiring the concert’s name, the choir will also perform Sarah Quartel’s anthem of optimism, “Sing My Child.” The finale is a (very macho) version of “When the Saints Go Marching In.”

Admission is at the door. For more information email islandchoralsociety@gmail.com or call 902-628-6778.

the three-manual Casavant in the choir loft, after which students will experience an “organ crawl,” witnessing the mechanical inner workings of the instrument. Piano students will have an opportunity to play and adapt their favourite piano pieces to the new instrument.

Pizza and juice will be provided in the church basement following the presentation. This is also an opportunity for students to apply for the Alan Reesor Memorial Scholarship, which would entitle the winning candidate to eight free organ lessons, allowing them to get their feet wet and find out if this is an instrument they would like to study more fully.

Admission is free, but registration is recommended by emailing leomarchildon88@gmail.com.

Summerside Community Choir

A Brahms Bonanza

Sarah Hagen with special guests from Sweden

Pianist Sarah Hagen welcomes Swedish musicians

Per Johannson and Marit Sjödin for a celebration of the chamber music of Johannes Brahms during his birthday week. This trio has toured together in Sweden a multitude of times over the past two decades. The ensemble will perform concerts in Souris, Charlottetown and Montague.

Johannson has been Principal Clarinet of Helsingborg Symphony Orchestra for 26 years. He performs as soloist with orchestra, tours internationally and is an avid chamber music and recording artist.

and tours internationally as both soloist and chamber musician.

To Spring

Amabile Singers concert at St. Peter’s Cathedral—May 10

With a varied programme of choral and vocal music, PEI’s Amabile Singers will perform their seasonal concert To Spring at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Charlottetown on May 10 at 7:30 pm.

The evening’s programme includes choral settings of poems by acclaimed writers such as H.D. Longfellow, Robert Burns and Charles Dickens. The six-part “Vignon, Vignon, Vignette” by Roland di Lasso and selections by Canadian composers add to the concert’s variety. For a taste of global/ world music, Amabile Singers will perform Karl Jenkins’ well-known “Adiemus.” In addition, a Mexican concert selection will be sung by Ximena Godoy and Daniel Vazquez.

Sjödin plays cello with many of Sweden’s professional orchestras, including the Gothenburg and Malmö Opera Orchestras, Malmö and Helsingborg Symphony Orchestras and the Swedish Chamber Orchestra. Her wide-ranging musicality has led to many successful collaborations with jazz musicians, actors, and dancers, where performances have explored experimental improvisation and acting.

An award-winning pianist, Hagen

Into the Spin

The ensemble’s programme will consist of duo sonatas and the lavish trio for clarinet, cello, and piano, all of which highlight the intimacy of Brahms’ chamber music.

The concerts will take place on May 9 at the Souris Show Hall at 7 pm, May 10 at St Paul’s in Charlottetown at 7:30 pm, and May 11 at Hillcrest United in Montague at 2 pm. All shows are pay-what-you-will. sarahhagen.com

Sirens’ final performance of the season—May 11

Journey through time on a musical voyage with Sirens. The PEI choral ensemble will present its final performance of the 2023-24 concert season, Into the Spin, at Park Royal United on May 11 at 2:30 pm.

The acclaimed choral ensemble invites its audience to be swept “into the spin” with a thought-provoking program. Fusing themes of time, life’s chapters and mindfulness, the ensemble will deliver an experience that encourages listeners to consider their own relationship with the past, present and future.

At the heart of this program lies

a repertoire designed to stir the soul and ignite the imagination. Among the pieces to be highlighted are: Eric Whitacre’s ”Goodnight Moon,” a piece inspired by Margaret Wise Brown’s bedtime storybook; David Lang’s hauntingly minimalist “I Lie” sung in Yiddish, exploring themes of truth and self-deception; and Einojuhani Rautavaara’s ethereal “Suite de Lorca,” inspired by the poetry of Federico García Lorca, and featuring Spanish folk influences and emotive melodies. Tickets for this event are are available online at sirenschoir.com/concerts or at the door.

Directed by Ruth Ann Read-Clay, the 20-member ensemble includes Sarah White from Montague as collaborative pianist, and organist, Clement Carelse, of St. Peter’s.

Admission is at the door, and free to children 12 and under.

MORE MUSIC

Tuesday night choir

Head to The Guild any Tuesday night from 6–8 pm until May 7 for singing in the round. All voices are welcome. Folk songs and rounds are taught by ear in an inclusive and welcoming group led by Lucy Farrell. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Informal jamt session

The next jam session for adults at the Summerside Rotary Library will be held on May 13 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.

PEI Songwriters’ Open Mic

All levels and genres are welcome to join the PEI Songwriters’ Open Mic from 2–4 pm at The Lucky Bean in Stratford on May 18 and June 15. Share an original song or two and receive feedback, if desired, in a supportive setting. 17 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford. Info: june@junemorrow.com.

Stratford Community Choir concert

The public is invited to join the Stratford Community Choir for a concert that celebrates spring through song. The concert will take place on May 26 from 2–3:30 pm at Spring Park United, 65 Kirkwood Dr, Charlottetown.

Sirens, Music PEI Week 2024

makes her home down east in PEI

SUBMITTED

(L–R): Sarah Hagen, Per Johannson and Marit Sjödin

The Slocan Ramblers

Bury your troubles down at the Harbourfront—May 17

The Slocan Ramblers return to Summerside’s Harbourfront Theatre on May 17 at 7:30 pm.

On their most recent album Up the Hill and Through the Fog, the Canadian roots ensemble channels the past three years of loss into a surprisingly joyous collection of twelve songs intended to uplift and help make sense of the world. Bluegrass music is nothing short of catharsis for The Slocan Ramblers. The album showcases the breadth of their varied influences while staying true to their roots in the rough and tumble bluegrass scene of Toronto’s no-nonsense bars and dancehalls.

The band won Momentum Band of the Year at the 2020 International Bluegrass Association Awards and

Troubadours at Trailside

Featuring Nudie and Shane Pendergast—May 19

Join Island troubadours Nudie and Shane Pendergast for an evening of songs and stories at Trailside Music Hall on May 19 at 8 pm.

An Island sensation for years, Nudie has toured long and far at festivals and venues across North America. Joining him is PEI folk singer-songwriter Shane Pendergast. Hailing from a long lineage of storytellers and musicians, Pendergast has been keeping the Maritime folk tradition alive at festivals across the globe.

Ensemble of the Year at the 2023 Canadian Folk Music Awards, and they were nominated in 2019 for a JUNO Award for Traditional Roots Album of the Year. They made their Grand Ole Opry debut in late 2023. harbourfronttheatre.com

The intimate evening will be full of original country and folk music from two of PEI’s finest troubadours.

37th PEI Bluegrass Festival

The traditional continues at Dundas Fairgrounds—July 5 to 7

The 37th annual PEI Bluegrass & Old Time Music Festival is being held at the Dundas Fairgrounds, Dundas, PEI on July 5, 6 and 7. Headline performers from the USA are Nick Chandler & Delivered and Joe Hott & The Short Mountain Boys. Bluegrass Tradition from Nova Scotia returns to the Festival and from New Brunswick come Ray Legere & Acoustic Horizon and Ivan Rosenberg & The Hound Dog Ramblers. PEI bands are Janet McGarry Band, The Stiff Family, Bluestreak, Whitecap Drive, Just Grass, SK Bluegrass, Heartfelt Bluegrass and Bluegrass Revival.

Nick Chandler & Delivered is a hard-driving, traditional bluegrass band from western North Carolina. Over the past few years the band has captured the attention of bluegrass fans world wide. In 2022 they were an IBMA 2022 Official Showcase Artist. Chandler is a master on the mandolin.

Joe Hott, originally from West Virginia but now based in Nashville, plays a blend of retro-bluegrass,

tra- ditional country, gospel music and Appalachian mountain music. His latest release, The Last Thing On My Mind, features original songs and traditional favourites. Hott now tours with his Short Mountain Band which includes guitar, banjo, bass and mandolin. They have shared the stage with artists such as Rhonda Vincent and Vince Gill. The most accomplished and awarded bluegrass musician ever to come out of the Maritimes, fiddle and mandolin player Ray Legere has performed with Tony Rice, Alison Krauss, David Grisman, Rhonda Vincent, Alison Brown, Rita McNeil, John McDermott, Bowfire, and Michelle Shocked. He was a guest artist on Great Blue North with Special Consensus which won Collaborative Performance of the Year at the 2023 IBMAs for their rendition of “Alberta Bound.” Acoustic Horizon features the “cream of the crop” of Maritime bluegrass musicians: Frank Doody on banjo, Alan Jeffries on guitar, and Marcel Duplessis on bass.

The Hound Dog Ramblers is a new band based in New Brunswick focused on music by classic bluegrass artists such as Delia Bell, Larry Sparks, Flatt & Scruggs, Jim & Jesse and Hazel Dickens. They perform original songs as well. Dobro master Ivan Rosenberg has released eight solo CDs and appeared on albums with Chris Jones & the Night Drivers, John Reischman, Chris Coole, Raffi, and David Francey, and played on the Jerry Douglas–produced album Southern Filibuster: A Tribute to Tut Taylor. Other band members are: Kristin Cavoukian, guitar, vocals; Kyle Legere, banjo, guitar, vocals; Ron Girouard, mandolin, vocals; Joe Potter, upright bass. Tickets and festival details are available at peibluegrass.ca/tickets or by calling 902-566-2641.

(top, L–R): Nick Chandler & Delivered; Joe Hott & The Short Mountain Boys (bottom, L–R): Ivan Rosenberg & The Hound Dog Ramblers; Ray Legere & Acoustic Horizon

The Slocan Ramblers

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Nudie

Shane

The Good Brothers

Performances in Charlottetown and Montague

The Good Brothers are coming to PEI this month with performances in Charlottetown at Trailside Music Hall on May 8 at 8 pm and in Montague at Copper Bottom on May 9 at 7:30 pm.

The Good Brothers are eight-time JUNO Award winners. They have headlined gigs at Massey Hall, Roy Thompson Hall, the National Art Centre and performed countless shows

at LA’s Universal Amphitheatre with (their mentor) Gordon Lightfoot. They were inductees into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame (2004), and have gained a worldwide audience over the course of their accomplished career.

Tickets for the Trailside show are available at trailside.ca, and for Copper Bottom at copperbottombrewing.com.

Gunnings & Cormier

Celebrating their new album at Harbourfront Theatre—May 31

Canadian roots singer-songwriters Dave Gunning and J.P. Cormier visit Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside for one night only at 7:30 pm on May 31, coinciding with the release of their first joint album together, Leather and Dust

With fourteen albums to his credit, there’s no denying Dave Gunning’s impressive body of work. The Nova Scotian folk musician has shared the stage with legends like Ron Hynes, Rita MacNeil, Stuart McLean and Stompin’ Tom Connors. He is a master of his craft, both as a singer-songwriter and a performer. Known for his abilities as a gracious storyteller, Gunning has knack for connecting with audiences.

Roots artists Dave Gunning (left) and J.P. Cormier have recorded their first album together.

Whitney Rose

Trailside Music Hall—May 11

Rose

PEI’s own Whitney Rose is bringing her band and countrypolitan sound back to the Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on May 11. Showtime is 8 pm.

Rose has been globe trotting and singing her songs for most of her life and she has the stories and songs to prove it.

Visit trailside.ca for tickets.

Dolly Parton Mother’s Day

Featuring Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron

Celebrate Mother’s Day on May 12 at Trailside Music Hall with the music of Dolly Parton.

Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge and Christine Cameron will perform beloved Dolly favourites and a few hidden gems, in lush three-part harmonies. They’ll be telling stories about Dolly, her songs, her philanthrophy and why she’s everybody’s favorite person. Additionally, they will share their own personal connections to some of Dolly’s songs.

Showtime is 1 pm. Visit trailside.ca or call 902-367-3311 for tickets.

J.P. Cormier is regarded as one of the most important singer songwriters of his generation. From starting his career as a sideman to Stompin’ Tom Connors, Cormier released his first

album Another Morning in 1997.The album garnered a JUNO nomination and an ECMA win. Sixteen albums followed, winning 12 more ECMA’s, another JUNO nomination, a Canadian Folk Music Award and five Music Nova Scotia Awards. Each album was a snapshot of what Cormier can do— fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar, tribute records, songwriting—a spectrum of talent and musical vision. harbourfronttheatre.com

Whitney

Dolly Parton

Fiddle Fandemonium II

Richard Wood is back for one night only—May 31

After a successful show last year, fiddler Richard Wood returns to present an evening that showcases the area’s traditional fiddling culture. For one night only, Fiddle Fandemonium II will be on stage at Centre 150 in Summerside on May 31 at 7:30 pm.

Fiddle Fandemonium II will feature celebrated fiddlers from both Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton Island. The show will again be presented in the songwriters’ circle format, but instead of songwriters, fiddlers representing five different genres will take the lead.

Wood will be joined by fiddlers Howie MacDonald, Melissa Gallant, Roy Johnstone, and Beverly MacLean. Guitarist Brent Chaisson, dancer Janelle Banks, and 2021’s Wood Family Fiddle Scholarship recipient Samuel Stretch round out the lineup.

Jack Pine Folk Club

The Old Beef Stringband featured at The Pourhouse—May 15

Take a step back in time and enjoy some folk music and poetry at the Jack Pine Folk Club on May 15 from 7:30–9:30 pm at the Pourhouse in Charlottetown.

Host Shane Pendergast will welcome The Old Beef Stringband to the stage, as well as songwriter Dennis Mackenzie and poet Jo Godden.

The Old Beef String Band is an old-time song and tune band based in

Fiddlers’ Sons

Island music and stories at West River United—May 26

PEI folk music group Fiddlers’ Sons will play at West River United in Cornwall on May 26 at 2 pm.

The band features storyteller, author and three-time Music PEI Male Vocalist of the Year Eddy Quinn, singer-songwriter and guitarist John B. Webster, and multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and step dancer Keelin Wedge. Together the group entertains with a mix of Island music, local stories, heartfelt ballads, and a few laughs for good measure. For this special concert, Fiddlers’ Sons will preview material

Doors open at 6:30 pm. Centre 150, located at 150 Industrial Crescent in Summerside, is fully accessible with free parking. Advance tickets are available at rwood.ca. Any remaining seats will be available at the door on the day of the event.

Nova Scotia. Their sound is rooted in Appalachian mountain music of the American south. Performances include original and traditional repertoire featuring playful harmonies, compelling ballads, melodic step dancing and driving tunes with fiddle and mandolin.

Admission at the door.

from their upcoming album, which is set to be released this summer. Books and CDs will be available for sale from the performers, and a light lunch will be served during intermission.

Info/tickets: 902-566 4052.

The Old Beef String Band from Nova Scotia

(L–R): Eddy Quinn, Keelin Wedge and John B. Webster

Richard Wood

ONGOING MUSIC

ceilidhs, dances, 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

Blues Jam at

Baba’s Blues Jam with the Plain Dirty Blues band will run from 5:30–8 pm on May 25 at Baba’s Lounge. Admission is by donation. Follow @Plain Dirty Blues on FB for updates. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Ceilidhs at the Irish Hall

The Benevolent Irish Society’s ceilidhs resume at the Irish Hall in May. The series features: Fiddlers’ Sons with Keelin Wedge (May 17); Tip ‘Er Back with Cynthia MacLeod (24); and Fullerton’s Marsh (31). Music starts at 8 pm. Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets at the door or at benevolentirishsocietyofpei.com. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

Dunstaffnage Ceilidh

A ceilidh takes place on the first Sunday of each month at 7 pm at the Dunstaffnage School Centre. Hosted by Road Masters Band and guest entertainers. There is a 50/50 draw. Admission at the door. 13529 St. Peter’s Rd, Dunstaffnage.

FallBack’s dance series

Dance to 50s and 60s rock ’n’ roll music at FallBack’s Spring Ahead Dance Series. The weekly dances run from 8–11 pm on Thursdays until May 30 in the Empire Room at the Loyalist Country Inn in Summerside. FallBack is a six-piece group compiled of Scott White, Dale Gaudet, Tom DesRoches, Johnny Ross, Wayne Robichaud and Steve Guy. The band performs hit songs from artists like Elvis, Buddy Holly, Beach Boys, Chuck Berry, and many more. Admission is at the door, which opens at 7:30 pm. These are 19+ events. Each night there is a 50/50 draw with proceeds going to the local food bank.

Got Blues Matinee

A Blues matinee hosted by Got Blues (ft. Chris Roumbanis and friends Mike Robicheau and Alan Dowling) is held several Saturdays a month from 2–4 pm at the Salvatore Dali Café. Each show features a special guest for the first set and

the second set is always an electric blues jam. Special guests in May are: singer/ guitarist Mark Haines (May 11); singer Annette Drapeau Corbett from NS and keys/sax Todd MacLean (18). Got Blues has been running from September to June since 2009. There is no cover charge; rather they pass the hat. Find them on FB for updates. 155 Kent 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. Admission is by donation. The May lineup includes: Ryan Van Winkle Quartet (May 2); Island Jazz Quartet plays TV Themes with Kelley Mooney (9); Island Jazz Macabre with Dotty Davis (16); Teresa Doyle Quintet (23); Harmony Wagner & Rob Drew (30). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Parkdale Sherwood Lions open mic sessions

Open mic is held on the first Monday of each month (May 6) at the Lions Den. Doors open at 6:30 pm with music from 7–9 pm. 56 Maple St, Charlottetown. Info: 902-314-7177

Schooner Sessions

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

Stratford and Area Lions Club Ceilidh

A ceilidh is held at the Robert L. Cotton Centre on the second Sunday of each month (May 12) from 2–4 pm. Coffee, tea and a light lunch is provided. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford. Info: 902-569-3956

Summerside Kitchen Party

Kitchen parties take place at the Summerside Legion on Saturdays from 2–5 pm. The May lineup includes: Back in Tyme with Brian Coughlin, Peter Burke, George MacPhee and Bob Gagnon (May 4, 11 and 18); and the McGarry brothers, Mike and John (25). 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.

Sunday Session

An afternoon Tune Session featuring traditional music and craic with host fiddler Roy Johnstone takes place weekly on Sundays from 2–4 pm at The Old Triangle. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Trad Night at Village Green

PEI’s smallest brewery, specializing in traditional and modern beer styles, hosts

a Trad Night every Thursday. 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.

Winsloe United Spring Ceilidh Series

A ceilidh is held at 2 pm every second Sunday at Winsloe United. Each week features the Winsloe United House Band and special guests. Jacinta MacDonald will host on May 5, with special guest Lester MacPherson and guest drummer and vocalist Billy Matthews. Dino Dunsford will host on May 19 with special guests Louise and Jonathan Arsenault. Tea, coffee and cold drinks are served at intermission. Admission is at the door, which opens at 1:30 pm. The church is wheelchair accessible. Follow on FB. 121 Winsloe Rd, Rte 223.

Dahlia Ave

Fundraising concert at Park Royal United—May 25

Celtic-Acadian folk trio Dahlia Ave will perform a fundraising concert at Park Royal United in Charlottetown on May 25 at 7 pm.

Playing a blend of old time, Celtic, and Acadian melodies, Dahlia Ave create a kitchen party atmosphere with their piano, fiddles and step dancing.

Tickets at the door. For more information call the church office (902-8949656). Park Royal United is located at 11 Christie Drive in Charlottetown.

Hoist the Sails

Variety show to raise funds for steeple repairs

Central Christian Church presents Hoist the Sails, an evening of entertainment on May 17 at 7 pm.

The variety show will feature The Saltys (A Shanty Group), The Becks, and The Weiler Family, as well as other performers, including a special appearance by Sylvia Mutch and Joey Rowledge.

Hoist the Sails is a fundraising effort to raise funds for steeple repairs and a new roof at Central Christian Church, located at 223 Kent Street in Charlottetown.

Tickets are available at the church office or by calling 902-894-5234. Tickets will also be available at the door (use Hillsborough Street entrance) after 6:30 pm. For more information, contact Jean at 902-894-4999 or Irene at 902-626-9952.

PEI RECORDINGS

Expansion

Vishtèn Connexions

Acadian roots duo (formerly trio) Vishtèn have joined forces with seasoned, formidable artists for their upcoming album Expansion, to be released on May 24. A preview launch is slated for May 10 in Charlottetown.

After the passing of Vishtèn member Pastelle LeBlanc, remaining members Emmanuelle LeBlanc and Pascal Miousse created Vishtèn Connexions, working with other artists as a solution for moving forward with her in spirit.

Expansion features seven different artists on its seven songs. The artists are: De Temps Antan, Catherine MacLellan, Rowen Gallant & Jesse Périard, 6 Hearts (members of The East Pointers), Julie Pellissier-Lush, and Seckou Keita & Catrin Finch.

The group will host an exclusive preview event at City Cinema in Charlottetown on May 10 at 6 pm. Attendees will be the first to experience the music from Expansion through a captivating film presentation, including visuals, music videos, and exclusive content.

Videos for a number of the songs, more information, and artist links are available online at vishten.net.

Jazz Avenue

Trailside Music Hall—Apr 29

Jazz Avenue returns to Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown for an evening of three distinct sets of music on April 29 at 8 pm.

Cream to My Coffee

Jeanie

Campbell & Charles Reid

PEI duo Jeanie Campbell & Charles Reid will launch their sophomore album Cream to My Coffee in May. Written by Campbell and Reid, the eight songs on the new album look at everything from love (and sometimes lack thereof) to relationships in the modern world.

Once again, the duo recorded with Island producer and musician Gordon Belsher of Guernsey Cove Parlour Productions, who captained their debut, Regarding Brookfield... (2022). Charlene Belsher did the artwork.

Two singles, “What We’ll Brave” (with accompanying music video) and “It’s Lovely, Dear” were released in April. Two more singles, “Let Me Down Easy” and the title track “Cream to My Coffee,” are coming in May. All songs are on SoundCloud.

A launch party will be held at the Pourhouse in Charlottetown on May 17 at 7 pm. Donations accepted at the door will benefit the PEI Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation in Miscouche PEI. CDs will be available at the launch or purchase by email to j_c2018@yahoo.com.

The first set will invite audience members to get up off their feet and dance to some electrifying swing dance classics. The second set will transport the venue to the home of soulful starts with New Orleans tunes. The night will conclude with jazz and crooner classics. This quartet of experienced musicians is eager to play and share the very music that brought them together. Doors open at 6:30 pm with the show starting at 8 pm. trailside.ca

Little Barry Cooke

and The Blue Devils at Trailside Music Hall—May 31

Little Barry Cooke and The Blue Devils will take the stage at the Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on May 31 at 8 pm.

The group brings an energetic mix of Chicago blues, 50s rhythm and blues, jump blues and boogie woogie.

For decades, Cooke has been a major player in the blues community of Nova Scotia. He held the piano chair with Joe Murphy and the Waterstreet Blues Band during their regular Saturday matinees for 22 years. He has performed alongside many East Coast legends such as Dutch Mason, Theresa Malenfant, Rick Jeffery, Garrett Mason, Shirley Jackson, Johnny Sansone and

Winterjazz

Last show of the season features Nathan Wiley—May 25

Closing out its 16th season at the Pourhouse in Charlottetwon, Winterjazz will feature Nathan Wiley on May 25. The concert series offers dinner and jazz with an early show from 7–9:30 pm.

Summerside, PEI’s Nathan Wiley first earned acclaim for his ECMA Award-winning debut Bottom Dollar, one of Billboard Magazine’s top ten albums of 2002. Since then, he has released High Low (2004), the Steve Berlin (Los Lobos) produced effort The City Destroyed Me (2007), Bandits (2015) and Modern Magic (2021). He has shared the stage with Blue Rodeo, Sarah Harmer, Steve Earle, Billy Bragg, Ron Sexsmith and more, and his work has appeared on television, film and stage. Wiley recently scored the feature film, Nightblooms.

The Winterjazz house band includes Deryl Gallant, Glen Strickey, Ian Toms, and Max Gallant. This group has been busy hosting the Winterjazz series and performing regularly across PEI.

John Campbelljohn. Currently, Cooke is a regular member of Shrimp Daddy and the Sharpshooters.

Providing vocals and piano, Little Barry Cooke is joined on stage with some of Halifax’s finest session musicians that make up The Blue Devils, including Tom Crilley (guitar), Rory Leitch (sax), Aaron Churchill (drums), and PEI’s Rheo Rochon (bass).

Little Barry Cooke and The Blue Devils are very active on the music scene throughout the East Coast, including the 2023 Halifax Jazz Festival, and Cloggeroo in Three Rivers, PEI.

Visit trailside.ca for tickets.

Some highlights for the group include winning Music PEI awards for both Best Jazz Recording and Achievement in Classical or Jazz. The Pourhouse is located at 189 Great George Street in Charlottetown. A portion of admission proceeds go toward a scholarship fund for Island students entering a jazz program. Reservations are strongly recommended, as tables fill early, by calling 902-892-5200. For more information, call or text 902-393-4536 or email glenstrickey@yahoo.ca.

Little Barry Cooke

Jazz Avenue

Cornwall,

Nathan Wiley

10 years of Lady Soul

Anniversary celebration show at the Pourhouse—May

18

On May 18, Lady Soul will host a special 10th anniversary show at the Pourhouse, located on the second floor of The Old Triangle at 189 Great George Street in Charlottetown.

In April 2014, nine-piece soul band Lady Soul squeezed onstage to debut at Baba’s Lounge in Charlottetown for a dance-infused late-night set at the ECMA 150 Hour Jam. Ten years later, the group is still going strong, bringing their funky sounds to audiences Island-wide.

The origins of the band are as distinctive as the band’s sound.

“It was a Sunday night and I was at Mel’s Convenience,” recalls founding member and bassist, Jason Rogerson. “I was about to leave when it hit me. You need to start a female-fronted soul band and bring that powerful, sassy music to the masses. I called Kelley

Maïa Davies

Album launch with guest Noah Malcolm—May 23

LACUNA Presents Maïa Davies’ album launch with special guest Noah Malcolm on May 23 at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown.

Montreal’s Maïa Davies is a JUNO and ECMA nominated, SOCAN #1 bilingual Canadian songwriter, recording artist and producer.

Her new collection of sorrowful, introspective songs for her upcoming solo release on Acronym/Universal (May 10) is packed with piano-driven compositions that instantly and intentionally recall the incandescent baroque pop of Tori Amos and Kate Bush.

Logan Richard

With guests Moira & Claire at Copper Bottom—May 25

Copper Bottom in Montague presents Logan Richard & His Band, with special guests Moira & Claire, on May 25 at 7:30 pm.

Logan Richard may just be the Canadian East Coast’s answer to John Mayer, Theo Katzman and Colin James all rolled into one. Spellbinding R&B grooves, pop hooks galore, a smooth voice that wraps listeners in, and tasteful blues-tinged guitar licks that make one realize why many are calling him one of the best up-and-coming young guitarists in the country. His most recent project is his Learning To Love EP.

Mooney that night.”

The band’s mission is to share the music of Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Amy Winehouse, and other soul divas, while delivering a passionate and energetic show.

Lead singers Kelley Mooney, Emi Smith, and newest member, K’eziah Collie, all back each other up with soulful three-part harmonies. The horn section features Mark Parsons (trumpet) and Joanna McKearney (tenor sax). On rhythm are Dave Gordon (keys), Jason Rogerson (bass), Kirk White (drums), and guest guitarist Chad Deagle.

Tickets are cash only, available in advance at The Old Triangle or at the door, which opens at 7 pm. Showtime is 8 pm. This is a 19+ licensed event.

Check out Lady Soul on their YouTube and Vimeo channels, or follow @LadySoul on FB.

Her new body of work finds Davies wistfully weaving elements of pop and classical into well-crafted motifs, tempering the lyrical sting with nostalgic melodies and buttery vocals. The result is a musical tale shared with empathy and composed with heart, confessional and piercing in its intimacy and scope. Showtime is 8 pm. Visit trailside.ca for tickets.

Born on one side of Canada and now living on another, Nova Scotia’s Moira & Claire write lighthearted, indie folk-pop songs. The sisters have been singing together for longer than

their professional careers; their voices harmonizing in the kind of familial magic that only living together their entire lives can attain.

This is a 19+ event with standing room only. Tickets can be purchased in the taproom or online via Locarius at locarius.io.

Golden Ticket Program

Music PEI helps emerging Island artists

The RBC Golden Ticket Program, put on annually by Music PEI, is designed to help emerging PEI artists.

The program is open to six musicians each year (solo or band) from any genre who have demonstrated commitment to their craft and a strong desire for industry advancement. It mentors them through the process of recording and releasing a single, with a more focused approach on: building a production team; building a marketing team; playlisting/radio campaign; career development; business planning and overall release strategy.

Golden Ticket is run by Colin Buchanan, a music industry veteran with years of experience as both an artist (Paper Lions, Sorrey) and a producer/mixer (Logan Richard, KINLEY, Braden Lam). This year’s Golden Ticket participants were Luka Hall, Emilea May, Carlie Howell, Hit The Coast, Tigwe and Somewhere Soon.

With the ever changing state of the music industry, finding success in it can feel like a game of whack-a-mole. An artist’s ability to be nimble and adapt their approach to finding an audience has never been more important. The Golden Ticket Program acts as the fertile ground to find and develop that approach with the funding and support of Music PEI.

Much of the program’s success over the last seven years has been due to its emphasis on collaboration. Whether it’s building meaningful creative relationships with a music

producer, developing strong visuals and branding with the help of designers and photographers, or utilizing new music services to strategize on a fresh approach to getting traction on DSPs (digital streaming platforms), the Golden Ticket Program hopes to have something for all its participants.

“Building a career in music is anything but ‘one size fits all’” says Buchanan. “Each recording process and release strategy has to be considered with care, and a deep understanding of who each artist is and what they want to convey to their audience. What might work well for one artist could be a terrible choice for another. Talking through those endless choices with the artist and building a strategy that makes sense for where they are in their career is the best way to help them find a clear path.”

Once the program wraps, the hope is that the artist can implement their new recording and release strategy on a consistent basis, keeping in mind that adapting to future changes in the industry will be necessary.

Buchanan explains, “I’ve been working in music for 20 years now and it’s never stopped changing. It’s one of the things I love about it! The artists I’ve seen have sustained success are the ones who view these changes not as a negative, but a new opportunity to express their creativity and share their perspective. It’s not about jumping on trends, it’s about being curious and finding things that work for you.”

Maïa Davies

Logan Richard

SUBMITTED

Nick Bike returns

DJ shows at Baba’s Lounge and the Sportsman’s Club

Nick Bike returns to PEI this month, headlining two exclusive shows during the weekend of May 10–11 in Charlottetown.

All 45s Vinyl Night on May 10 at Baba’s Lounge will feature two hours of Nick Bike spinning his own lathe cut 45s. Setting the stage, DMayne Event, who is coincidentally celebrating his 45th birthday this month, will kick things off with a 45-minute set. At 11 pm, That Matty Mofo will keep the energy high before handing it over to Nick at midnight.

On May 11, the Sportsman’s Club will be HOUSE-centric with Good Neighbour opening, followed by DNCTHNG B2B DMayne Event, and Nick playing from midnight–2 am.

unanimously by R.O.A.D. Podcast listeners as Best Editor & Remixer.

The Umbrella Collective

Since graduating from UPEI and relocating to Vancouver, BC, Nick’s [Nick Bike Edit/Remix] has become synonymous with many of the favourite DJs’ digital and physical crates around the world, gathering play support from the likes of Questlove, Just Blaze, Gilles Peterson, and D-Nice. In 2022, Nick was voted

He is also a two-time Vancouver Red Bull Thre3style champ, as well as a dual invitee to Jazzy Jeff’s prestigious Playlist Retreat. Nick continues to create and DJ each month, while also operating his newest venture, Chosen Spokes, producing small batch lathe cut records.

Both events will run from 10 pm–2 am. Admission at the door.

Steven Page

“The Concept of World Music Is Not It”—Siddu

The Umbrella Collective formed in 2021, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The band formed around lyricist and MC, Charles Ruth. As a result of the imposed circuit breakers during the band’s early days, they almost called themselves C. Ruth and the Setbacks.

Vancouver by a collaborator of Sid’s named Joshua Eastman.

The recording sessions were experi mental and relaxed, and were happening at all hours of the day and night, with whomever was available, hanging around or scheduled to be there. They set a loose deadline, settled in and dedicated themselves to a creative process.

Trailside Music Hall—May 15

Boy Golden is coming to Charlottetown and will perform at Trailside Music Hall on May 15 with Fontine. Showtime is 8 pm.

Everything becomes fluid when one can pass through time and space like a ghost, a story, a melody. Boy Golden manifests all three on For Jimmy When listening to Boy Golden’s music, everything flows—introspective and vulnerable, traditional and queer, hard-headed and sensual, his everyman-aesthetic appeals to many. trailside.ca

Live at PEI Brewing Company in August

Steven Page

Sommo presents Steven Page live in concert on August 17 at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown. Kristen Martel will open. Page is the founding member, and former lead singer, guitarist and primary songwriter, of the Barenaked Ladies. He continues to garner acclaim for his solo career since 2009.

Doors open at 7:30 pm. Show time is 8 pm. This is a 19+ event. peibrewingcompany.com

The Umbrella Collective is made up of Tamara Steele (bass, vocals), Mark Steele (guitar), Jonathan Holmes (drums), (Siddu) Siddhu Sachidananda (keys, samplers, vocals, producer), Loic Niyonsenga (lyricist, MC), and Charles Ruth (lyricist, MC). The band’s name was inspired by a meaningful and beautiful photograph of Charles Ruth’s late mother holding an umbrella.

Geographically, there is an intercontinental element to this band. Jon, Tamara and Mark are all from PEI, while Loic is from Rwanda, Charles is from Nigeria, and Siddhu is from India. The youngest member of the band is 24 and the oldest is 48. This all makes for a very fine blend of influences—culturally and musically.

Up front, they are a live rap, hip-hop group, but there are many layers to The Umbrella Collective’s sound. They are pulling from and weaving jazz, reggae, R&B, metal, funk, and traces of psychedelic music. It feels very good and this band feels very much like a family.

Siddu is the sonic guide, producer, and driving force behind their debut, 2024 ECMA nominated album, Welcome to Studio UC!. However, everyone feels like a very important piece to the sound. Welcome to Studio UC! was self-recorded at their home base in Sherwood, during the summer of 2023. It was mixed and mastered in

The songs were written/created in the studio setting by building up seeds or ideas until the songs felt right. Once the album was completed, they had to learn how to perform these songs live.

A lot of the drum tracks were built by Siddu by chopping up the parts Jon was capturing in the room. Sometimes he would record drum ideas for two hours until he felt like he found what he was looking for. A very interesting process for sure, and to some, maybe somewhat backwards, but regardless of the process the band produced a record that feels world class. It feels alive. There is big spirit.

The Umbrella Collective will be busy this summer, as they head west to play the Vancouver Island Music Festival in mid-July, and the Calgary Folk Fest in late July. This spring, you can see them perform at ECMA’s Around the World Showcase at John Brown’s in Charlottetown on May 4th.

At the moment, they are fine tuning plans to record a live album. They have also started collecting ideas for whatever studio recording project lies ahead, but they recognize there is a spark to Welcome to Studio UC! and they don’t want to brush it off prematurely. There’s no hurry, this band is working on a journey.

The Buzz welcomes veteran PEI musician, singer and songwriter Dennis Ellsworth to our roster of columnists.

Nick Bike

Music Arcade by Dennis Ellsworth

Boy Golden

LIVE MUSIC

bars, lounges, cafés...

Albert & Crown Pub

Julie & Danny (May 4 @8 pm); Joey Doucette (9 @8 pm); Alyssa Harper & Jim Williams (11 @8 pm); Mother’s Day with Chad Matthews (12 @4 pm); Blair Gaudet (17 @6 pm). 480 Main St, Alberton.

Baba’s Lounge

Tuesdays at 8 pm; Fridays and Saturdays 10 pm (unless noted): Island Jazz (May 2 @7 pm); Joel Miller and guest (2 @11 pm); Mercy, Please with Guests (3 @6 pm); Takeda Takeda, Marion (NB), Graeme Kennedy and Radiator (3 @11 pm); Danny Gallant Band (4 @2 pm); House party (4 @5:30 pm); DJ Late night (4 @11 pm); Todd King (7 @8 pm); Island Jazz (9 @8 pm); DMayne 45 Special - Nick Bike with That Matty Mofo & DMayne Event, (10); Danny Gallant Band (11 @5 pm); Human Missle Crisis (11); Vinyl Night (14); Island Jazz (16 @8 pm); Len O’Neill, Marc McLaughlin, Emilea May and Oscar Kempe (17); Riptyde Night (18); Vinyl Night with Spencer Swaine (21); Island Jazz (23 @8 pm); TBA (24); Doug Burton and The Plain Dirty Blues Band (25 @5 pm); Ivy Garden, Baited, and Old Habits (25); Doug Hoyer & Owen Davies (28); Island Jazz (30 @8 pm); Somewhere Soon, Jacob Reddin and the Striped Shirt Band (31). Open Mic with KINLEY on Wednesdays at 9 pm. Karaoke with Britt on Mondays at 10 pm. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Bogside Brewing

Fridays and Saturdays from 6:30–9:30 pm: Dan Doiron (Apr 31); Billy White (May 3); Taylor Johnson (4); Adam MacGregor (10); Lisa Birt (11); Barry O’Brien (17); Carter MacClellan (18); Chris Johnston (24); Steve Zaat (25); Dan Doiron (31). Blizzard Goat Band on Saturdays from 3–5 pm. 11 Brook St, Montague.

Brothers 2

Thursdays and Fridays at 7 pm. 618 Water St, Summerside.

Charlottetown Beer Garden

ECMA Amplified (May 2 @10:30 pm); ECMA Export Showcase (3 @9:45 pm); ECMA Screemin’ Teens (4 @3 pm). 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Charlottetown Legion

Saturdays at 9:30 pm: Hache (May 4); Roundabout (11); Rustlers (18); Kim Albert (25). All are welcome. 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.

Craft Beer Corner

Live DJ on Saturdays at 10 pm: Rich O Coin (May 4); Tully (11); Javier (18); Andy & Duncan (25). 156 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Salvador Dalí Café

ECMA Blues Matinee (May 4 @1 pm); ECMA Jazz Night (4 @7:45 pm); Got Blues Matinee (May 11/18 @2 pm); Jeff Doherty on piano (May 17/18 @6 pm); Sheila Smith on piano (May 24 @6 pm). 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Evermoore Brewing

Tuesdays from 6–8 pm: Lawrence Maxwell (Apr 30); Nick Doneff (May 7); Logan Maddix (14); David Woodside (21); Iain McCarvill (28). Celtic Jam on Saturdays from 2–4 pm with host Geoff Charlton. 192 Water St, Summerside.

The Factory

Late Night DJ Party on Fridays and Saturdays. Karaoke on Thursdays. 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.

The Fiddling Fisherman

Pub Nights on Fridays from 7–11 pm. 13 Lower Rollo Bay Road, Souris.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market

Fridays from 4:30–6:30 pm and Saturdays from 5–7 pm: Jorge Peña (May 3); Margarita Wayne (4); Mike Stratton (10); Wayne & Nathalie (11); Brooke MacArthur (17); David Woodside (18); Jerry Laird (31). 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.

Gahan House

Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9 pm: Fraser McCallum (May 1); Curtis Reginald (2); David Woodside (8); Benny Von (9/29); Stephen Szwarc (15); Nathan Carragher (16/30); Justyn Thyme (22); Adam MacGregor (23); Benny Von (29); Nathan Carragher (30). 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Harmony House Lounge

Live music at 6:30 pm (unless noted): Claire on Keys (May 3); Max Keenlyside (8/15); Dan Doiron (17); Nick Doneff (23); Brielle Ansems (24 @7 pm). 19814 Rte 2, Hunter River.

The Hub Lounge

Saturday Kitchen Party from 1–4 pm: Dave Connolly (May 4); Brian Dunn (11); Sam Ramsay (18); Ashley Gorman (25); John McAller (June 1). Anderson’s Creek Golf Club, 68 North Rd, Stanley Bridge.

Hunter’s Ale House

Live music (May 2/3/4 @6 pm–4 am). Copy Cat (11/25); Main Street Bullies (17); TBA (31). Corner of Kent & Prince Sts, Charlottetown.

John Brown Grille

ECMA Blame it on my Roots (May 2 @10:30 pm); ECMA Black Vibes (3 @9 pm); ECMA Around the World (4 @1 pm);

ECMA Late Night (4 @9 pm). Fridays at 10 pm and Saturdays from 2–4 pm. 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.

The Local Pub & Oyster Bar

Fridays and Saturdays from 7–10 pm and Sundays from 5–8 pm: Carter MacLellan (May 3); TBA (4/5/19); Dan Doiron (10); Saul Good Duo (11); Kenton Wedge (12/26); Todd MacLean & Justin Simard (17/31); Ella Campbell (18); Thatcher MacKay (24); Adam MacGregor & Liam Kearney (25). 202 Buchanan Dr, Charlottetown.

Lone Oak Brew Pub

Thursdays from 6–8 pm: Nathan Carragher (May 2); Jordan Cameron (May 9); Brooke MacArthur (16); Fraser McCallum (23); Brad Milligan (30). 15 Milky Way, Charlottetown.

Lone Oak Brewing Co

Live music on Thursdays from 6–8 pm and Saturdays from 6–9 pm: Brothers MacPhee (May 5 *Sun @1 pm); Mike Stratton (9); Chris Ahern (12); Dan Doiron (16); Rick Sparkes (19); David Woodside (25); Blue Robin (26 *Sun @1 pm). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.

The Lucky Bean: Stratford Open Mic with Robert McMillan every Sunday 1–4 pm. 17 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford.

Marc’s Lounge

Fridays and Saturdays from 9–11 pm: Wayne Gallant (May 10); Dave Woodside (11); Steve Zaat (17); Brian Dunn (18); Brooke MacArthur (24); Jordan Cameron (25); Steve Zaat (31). 125 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Montague Legion

Nick Doneff (May 4 @8 pm); Joe Hynes (11/25 @7 pm); Steven Somers (18 @8 pm). Karaoke on Fridays at 8 pm with Gloria. 15 Douses Rd, Montague.

North Rustico Lions Club

Saturdays from 8–11 pm: Gypsy Soul (May 4); The Wrecking Crew (11); TBA (18); Seaglass (25). Tuesday Jam Nights starting at 7 pm. 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.

Olde Dublin Pub

TBA (May 2/14 @10 pm); Luka Hall (3 @6 pm); Raglan Road (3 @10 pm); Cole Brioux (4 @3:30 pm); Jud Gunning (4 @6 pm); Raglan Road (4 @10 pm); Gypsy Soul (10 @10 pm); Adam MacGregor and The Foes (11 @10 pm); Ella Campbell (17 @7 pm); Wannabeez (17 @10 pm); Saul Good (18 @10 pm); TBA (31 @7 pm); Brad Milligan & Nick Gauthier (31 @11 pm). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Parkdale Sherwood Lions Club

Open mic session of the first Saturday of the month (May 6) at 7 pm. 56 Maple St, Charlottetown.

PEI Brewing Company

Acoustic Fridays from 5–8 pm: Acoustic Brothers (Joey Enman) (May 3); Ashley Gorman (10); Adam MacGregor (17); Brothers MacPhee (24); Mat Hannah (31). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.

Razzy’s Roadhouse

Fridays from 5–8 pm and Saturdays from 4–7 pm: Brian Dunn (May 3/10/31); Kevin Arthur (4/24); Tarky Whitlock (11); TBA (17); John MacAller (18); Grant Pye (25). 161 St. Peters Rd, Charlottetown.

RCAF Wing Summerside

Saturdays at 9 pm and some Fridays at 7 pm: Hoss and Friends (May 4); Johnny Ray (10); Neon Country (11); Dave Doyle Band (18); Roundabout (25); Johnny Ray (10). Karaoke on Mondays at 7 pm. 329 North Market St, Summerside.

Red’s Gold Cup Lounge

Fridays and Saturdays: Billy White (Apr 31 @8 pm); Richie Bulger (May 3 @8 pm); Lisa Birt (4 @10 pm); Lawrence Maxwell (10 @10 pm); Breakwater Acoustic (11 @8 pm); Wil McGonegal (17 @10 pm); Nathan Carragher (18 @10 pm); Margarita Wayne (24 @10 pm); Mike & Karen Penton (25 @8 pm); Billy White (31 @8 pm). Red Shores, 21 Exhibition Dr, Charlottetown.

The Silver Fox Fridays at 9:30 pm and Saturdays from 2:30–5:30 pm (unless noted): Neon Country (May 3); Acoustic Brothers (4); Powerhouse (10); Jonny Ray Arsenault (11); Disco 2: On Repeat feat. DJ Biggar Beats (11 @9:30, ticketed); 30 Russell (17); Kim Albert & Mike Arsenault (18); Rock The Fox: Spring Fling feat. Kim Albert and Faces with Neon Country (18 @9:30, ticketed); Hired Guns (24); Rick Sparkes & Danny Drouin (25); Rockers for Recovery in support Lennon House and Compassion First Care feat. Shipwrecks, Powerhouse, Vaettir, Noyz, and Swamp River (25 @9:30, ticketed); Kenny Pearl and the Oysters (31). 110 Water St, Summerside.

The Sportsmans Club

Nick Bike with DNCTHNG B2B DMayne Event & Good Neighbour on May 10 at 10 pm. 175 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Summerside Legion

Karaoke on Thursdays from 7:30–11 pm with Leisa Coughlin. 340 Notre Dame St. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.

Upstreet Brewing

Friday Patio Party on May 3 from 4–6:30 pm with Steve MacIntyre, Isabella Samson, The Brackish, Hubert Francis, and RG & The Peacemakers. Saturday Patio Party from 4–7 pm with Brad Milligan, Jenina MacGillivray, Casual Cries for Help, and Cameron Nickerson. 41 Allen St, Charlottetown

ECMA Honourary Awards

Ten recipients will be recognized during celebrations in May

The East Coast Music Association (ECMA) has announced ten Honourary Award Recipients for ECMA 2024 in Charlottetown in May.

Presented by the ECMA’s Board of Directors, most of these awards will be conferred during the East Coast Music Awards: Part II, at the Delta Prince Edward Confederation Ballroom on May 5 at 11 am.

The Director’s Special Achievement Award will be presented at the 2024 East Coast Music Awards show on May 2 at 8 pm.

“The ECMA Board of Directors is proud to recognize the dedication and commitment of our Industry professionals,” says Debbie Mullins, Chair of ECMA. “Their long-time contributions

to the industry have been invaluable. Congratulations to everyone.”

The recipients are as follows:

Director’s Special Achievement Award: Bruce Guthro (CB)

Dr. Helen Creighton Lifetime Achievement Award: Denis Parker (NL)

Musician’s Achievement Award: Deryl Gallant (PE)

Industry Builder Award: John Poirier (NS)

Bucky Adams Memorial Award: Scott Parsons (PE)

Stompin’ Tom Awards (5): Pamela Morgan (NL), Ian Alistair Gosbee (NS), Stephen Muise (CB), Zachary Atkinson (NB), and Kerri Wynne Macleod (PE).

To learn more about these awards or to get tickets for the awards shows, visit ecma.com.

Triple header at Baba’s

Sarah Segal-Lazar, Myhill and Doug Hoyer—Apr 30

(L–R): Doug Hoyer, Myhill and Sarah Segal-Lazar

A triple header featuring Sarah SegalLazar, Myhill, and Doug Hoyer will share the stage at Baba’s Lounge on April 30 from 8–11 pm.

Segal-Lazar took her love of music and theatre, hitched them together, and created her company, Sermo Scomber. She’s gone on to release her own music, as well as compose for others. Her songs have even been featured on

Take The Mic

Live band karaoke at Trailside Music Hall—May 10

Take The Mic: Live Band Karaoke is a chance for all vocal stars and bathroom belters to own the stage and belt out their favourite tunes with the support of a live band. Featuring seasoned musicians with a passion for popular

Tribute shows

Queen, The Tragically Hip, Tyler Childers and more

Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic

May 4, Harbourfront Theatre

Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic, a tribute show to the band Queen, will take the stage at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on May 4 at 7:30 pm as a part of their national tour.

The Australian stage production is bringing its big sound, big screens, lighting and special effects for a night of non-stop rock anthems, including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You,” “We Are the Champions,” “Radio Ga Ga,” “I Want to Break Free,” “Somebody to Love,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” and more.

The show features classically trained artist Dominic Warren reprising his role as Freddie Mercury and performing vocals, piano and guitar, live on stage and in original key.

harbourfronttheatre.com

CBC’s As It Happens multiple times. Her latest album Valleys, produced by Canadian folk luminary Matthew Barber, is out now.

Myhill is a folk acoustic singer-songwriter from Ottawa. Hoyer, currently based in Chicago, writes music for podcasts. sarahsegalmusic.com; myhill.bandcamp.com; doughoyer.com

The Fabulously Rich

May 17, Kings Playhouse

music, Take The Mic on May 10 at Trailside Music Hall offers an electrifying live band karaoke experience, with over 300 songs spanning various genres and decades.

Take the spotlight, sign up, choose a song, and get ready to shine as the band expertly backs each performance.

Doors open at 6:30 pm, with the show starting at 8 pm. This is a 19+ event. To register, email Pat at info@ trailside.ca.

The Fabulously Rich pay homage and share their love for The Tragically Hip’s music. Catch them at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on May 17 at 7:30 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm.

Together with their audiences, The Fabulously Rich look to keep The Tragically Hip’s music alive and celebrate the magic that made them a force in Canadian music history.

“We’re not here to imitate or impersonate,” says The Fabulously Rich. “Our mission is to recreate that

indescribable experience of being at an authentic Hip show. We strive to capture every musical and vocal nuance, ensuring that the essence of the music remains intact.”

Visit kingsplayhouse.com or call 902-652-2053 for tickets.

The Hounds

June 1, Copper Bottom

Copper Bottom in Montague presents The Hounds, a Tyler Childers tribute band, in their taproom on June 1.

The Hounds are Island musicians Taylor Buote (lead vocals/rhythm guitar), Lucas Pineau (lead guitar), Dennis Dunn (bass/supporting vocals) and Logan Hammond (drums). The band has performed multiple sold out events in Charlottetown and covers a wide collection of songs from Childers’ discography.

Tickets can be purchased in the taproom or online via Locarius at locarius. io. This is a 19+ event.

Country Roads

June 6–27

(Thu/Fri), PEI Brewing Co.

Craig Fair Music Productions and Whitecap Entertainment are bringing the production Country Roads, to the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown with performances on select dates from June 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 26 and 27 at 7:30 pm.

Country Roads is a nostalgic road trip celebrating artists like Faith Hill, Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, Trisha Yearwood, Rascal Flatts, Willie Nelson, Shania Twain, Little Big Town, Alabama, Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks and many more.

Starring Lawrence Maxwell, Brooke MacArthur, Brad Milligan, Anna Vail, Pierce Clarke and Marli Trecartin, the production includes over 50 songs and an eight-piece band.

This is an all ages show. peibrewingcompany.com

Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic’s Canadian Tour stops at Harbourfront Theatre

Kings County Music Festival

Performances and awards for young musicians

Many young musicians in Eastern PEI are putting the final touches on their performances in preparation for the upcoming Kings County Music Festival. Running from May 6–10, the Festival will include piano, voice, choral and instrumental classes.

Magdalena von Eccher, assistant professor of piano at UPEI, will adjudicate piano classes. Dr. von Eccher, based in Charlottetown, completed her studies at the University of Lethbridge, University of British Columbia, and McGill University, earning the Faculty of Fine Arts Gold Medal. She’s an accomplished performer.

Kiera Galway, assistant professor at Mount Allison University, will adjudicate vocal and choral classes. A Newfoundland native, Dr. Galway earned Bachelors’ degrees in Bassoon Performance and Music History/ Literature and Music Education, plus

TRIVIA

Ch’town Firefighters Club

Fridays at 7:30 pm. 89 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Churchill Arms

Tuesdays at 8:30 pm with Henry; Saturdays at 2 pm with Wade. 89 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Coach’s Restaurant & Bar

Thursdays at 7:30 pm. 345 Mt Edward Rd, Charlottetown.

Copper Bottom Brewing

Fridays at 7 pm with PEI Beer Guy. 567 Main St, Montague.

Craft Beer Corner

Quizzing Queer Trivia on May 3 and 31 at 7 pm with Katie Perry. 156 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Evermoore Brewing

Thursdays at 8 pm with Will MacDonald. 192 Water St, Summerside.

The Factory

Fridays at 8 pm with Doc. 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Hopyard

Wednesdays at 8 pm with Hank. 151 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Magdalena von Eccher will adjudicate piano classes at the Festival

a Masters in Choral Conducting at Memorial University. She holds a Masters’ degree in Musicology and a PhD in Music Education from the University of Toronto.

The week will conclude with the Awards Night Concert on May 10 at 7 pm at Hillcrest United in Montague.

The public is invited to attend the Music Festival. Visit peikmfa.ca/ kings-county for the full program and schedule.

BUZZ IFIEDS

Hunter’s Ale House

Name That Tune Trivia on Sundays at 9 pm with Andrew Rollins; Entertainment Trivia on Thursdays at 9 pm with Darcy Campbell. 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Lone Oak at Fox Meadow

May 3, 10 and 17 at 7 pm with Kirk MacKinnon; 167 Kinlock Rd, Stratford.

The Lounge at Harmony House

May 2, 16, 30 at 6:30 pm. 19814 Route 2, Hunter River

North Rustico Lions Club

May 10 and 24 at 7:30 pm with Barry Parons. 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.

The Old Triangle

Saturdays at 2:30 pm with Dave Connolly. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown

Olde Dublin Pub

Thursdays at 7:30 pm with Cone. 131 Sydney St, Charlottetown

PEI Brewing Company

Thursdays at 7 pm with Barry Parsons. 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.

Upstreet Brewing

Taproom Trivia on May 11 and 24 at 7 pm with Ross. 41 Allen St, Charlottetown

BRIDGE TO GO! Our experienced team will simplify the guidelines of the game, developing your confidence and enjoyment as a bridge player. Four-two sessions, starting Monday May 6, 6:30–8:30 pm. Haviland Club, Charlottetown. $40. carolreid012@gmail.com, irene. macarthur.pei@gmail.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!

ARGENTINE TANGO CLASSES WITH MARCO. Now at our new location. Vital Kinetics, 112 Longworth Ave, Ch’town. Fri & Sat 5:30–7:00 pm. To sign up or for more info: argentinetangopei@ gmail.com or text/call (782) 377-6719.

PRIVATE VOICE LESSONS for non-classical singers with JUNO nominated recording artist Teresa Doyle. For shy beginners to touring musicians. Contact teresa@teresadoyle.com

TEXT ONLY BUZZIFIEDS 30 words = $25 (+tax). Buy in bulk to save—6 months for $100 (+tax). Text and payment due by mid-month deadline.

HALIFAX GAY MEN’S CHORUS b TANYA DAVIS b JOEL PLASKETT b PHILIP CHIU b DUO CONCERTANTE b GORDIE MACKEEMAN & THE RHYTHM BOYS

b ELIZABETH SHEPHERD TRIO b MARYNA KRUT b THE ONCE b SHHH!! ENSEMBLE

b PALLADE MUSICA b SARAH HAGEN b RUM RAGGED b JACKSON/WILSON DUO

b SECHILE SEDARE b TIFFANY LIU b MI’GMAFRICA b LARA DEUTSCH b ADAM CICCHILLITTI b VISHTÈN CONNEXIONS b DUO CBJ & MH b MORGAN TONEY b ALICIA TONER b DAVID POTVIN