The Buzz - November 2024

Days on the Island

New

Days on the Island—a photo diary of a mother by Sarah WangXin is currently on view at AURA Art Gallery in Charlottetown.

This exhibit tells the story of art director Sarah WangXin. In late autumn 2022, a mother from Shanghai landed on PEI at midnight, bringing her 11-year-old son and four big suitcases to a place she knew nothing about. With curiosity and unease, she began with resolve to develop her new life.

A former curator, art historian, and artist, WangXin was not satisfied with being a passive onlooker from away. With a Leica camera in hand, she started taking photos and recording her new life. WangXin captured her daily experiences—picking up her son from school, exploring with friendly neighbours, or strolling through parks.

Inspire 2024

Works of Island teachers at The Guild

The Visual Arts Educators Association of PEI is once again showcasing the work of Island teachers and school staff, past and present. The show, Inspire 2024—The Kitbag Collection, will be exhibited on a new community art wall, upstairs at The Guild, from November 7–23. An opening reception will take place from 4–5 pm on November 7.

This year’s “Kit Bag Collection” features small works in all styles and media made by educators and school support staff from across the province.

The exhibition is open Tuesday to Friday, 12–5 pm, and during Guild events at 111 Queen Street, Charlottetown.

Through these moments, she found her path into a new culture and society.

In September 2024, WangXin opened her own art gallery and art store, AURA.

“Based on our trans-cultural background, the art landscape of our gallery displays both Oriental and Western features,” says WangXin. “We also curate and hold exhibitions, small art library, space to hold local art events, art courses, all contributing to the local art scene and culture.”

Days on the Island is the gallery’s inaugeral exhibition and will run until December 31.

AURA Art Gallery is located in Unit 155 of the BDC Building, 155 Kent Street, Charlottetown. Follow @ AuraArtAura on Instagram, Facebook, and XiaoHongShu for updates.

Photo by Sarah WangXin

gallery and exhibition by Sarah WangXin

Linocut print, 4”x6” by Shannon Dunphy, arts teacher at Three Oaks Senior High

Profile: Jordan Beaulieu by Julie Bull

Art is life

Jordan Beaulieu is a book and zine maker, visual artist, and coordinator extraordinaire. They are actively involved in many arts projects and organizations on the Island, and they are the co-founder of the Charlottetown Zine Fest. “I love books and zines from around the world and I’m so grateful that so many folks share that love as part of the Zine Fest.”

“When the new library was being built, we thought it would be a really cool idea to take advantage of the new auditorium space and have a zine fest.” With that idea and passion in their pockets, Jordan and her team set out on an adventure to bring the first Charlottetown Zine Fest to life in 2022.

“The first Fest exceeded any and all of our hopes and dreams, and it keeps growing!”

One of the new additions to the Charlottetown Zine Fest this year is a workshop for kids, facilitated by a kid. “The kid garnered a lot of attention at last year’s fest and we’re so excited to

“I am greatly inspired by the ways in which the River Clyde Pageant builds and fosters community reciprocity and I knew I wanted to bring that same feeling to the Charlottetown Zine Fest.” Based on the feedback I’ve heard from Zine Fest attendees, Jordan’s vision for this community-building is happening. “Community is so important, and I love witnessing people come together with these shared interests.”

Jordan’s commitment to local arts is also evidenced in their service roles as a board member of organizations such as Art in the Open and This Town Is Small. “I’ve met so many people and have gained a lot of valuable experience during my time on these boards.”

Most of Jordan’s life and work is built around collaboration. “I love working on teams and practicing the art of surrendering our individuality to the collective. Everyone brings their own magic to the table and it’s incredible to watch the planning come to life.”

A lifelong learner and maker, Jordan enjoys reading zines and books any chance she gets.

“There is a really cool zine culture in the Flemish part of Belgium, and I have been enjoying their zines lately.”

have them come back this year in this capacity.”

“I am an only child, so I grew up with lots of opportunity to entertain myself and connect with my imagination.”

Jordan’s dad was an artist, so she grew up believing it was possible to create a career in the arts. “It is so important to show kids that there are opportunities and that an artistic life is possible.”

Jordan grew up in Montague and lived for a while in Montreal and Halifax for university. With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in fine art, Jordan has been immersed in art for as long as they can remember. “Art is the only thing that has been constant and consistent.”

Jordan can be found behind the scenes at many arts events across the province, such as Art in the Open and the River Clyde Pageant. They were a tech director with the River Clyde Pageant this past summer and recently tried stilt walking for the first time as part of the River Clyde fall event.

Jordan is also a freelance book maker and graphic designer, working with local companies like Pownal Street Press and others. She also makes exhibition catalogues and is passionate about documenting what is happening in our time. “It’s important to me to know that we have documentation of the art and artists of right now.” We took a stroll down memory lane as we discussed some of the art and artists in yearbooks from the 90s. “There was so little information written about the people or their creations and I want to continue ensuring that we are recording these important things.”

Knowing that she helps so many others bring their books to life, I was curious to know if we can anticipate a book from Jordan sometime down the road. “I think making our own book is one of the bravest things a person can do. Maybe someday I will make mine!”

Jordan’s preferred medium is drawing, and they appreciate connecting with creativity in various ways. They have an irregular arts practice, and notes that “consistency is not the goal”. There is a seasonality about creativity that Jordan practices in their life. It was refreshing to hear an artist talk about this seasonality and not put pressure on themselves to create or produce at a certain pace or to expect sameness throughout the year.

The seasons change, and so do we.

This Town Is Small

This Town Is Small (TTIS), PEI’s artist-run centre, has moved to the Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild in Charlottetown. This marks a major step for the previously spaceless organization, following extensive research on sustainable space models and community consultations.

In the new 1000 square foot space, TTIS will continue its mission, supporting both emerging and established artists through exhibitions, workshops, events, and development initiatives. It will also act as a hub for connection, collaboration, and artistic inspiration.

TTIS will present a group exhibition featuring work from Island-based artists, from November 14–December 19. The exhibition was organized from an open call for submissions for recent artworks that are original, forward thinking, and incite conversation. An opening reception will be held on November 14 from 5:30–7 pm.

“We believe deeply in the importance of supporting artists and highlighting the incredibly important work that they do,” shares Alexandra O’Sullivan, programming coordinator for TTIS. “We’re excited to bring our team’s skills and expertise into a permanent gallery space.”

Gallery hours are Wednesday

Exhibitions at Eptek

Wood turners, Remembrance Day and Mi’kmaq artists

Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside has several exhibitions this fall.

Turning Point, featuring work by the PEI Wood Turners Guild, runs until November 15. The Guild will hold free woodturning demonstra tions on November 3 from 1–3 pm and November 15 from 12:30–3:30 pm.

Eptek’s annual Remembrance Day exhibit, created in collaboration with Greg Gallant of the PEI Regiment Museum, is on view in the lobby. This year’s exhibit highlights PEI’s Indigenous veterans.

On November 26, The Creator’s Gift opens, showcasing works by over 20 Mi’kmaq artists. The immersive exhibit features quillwork, basketry, photography, jewelry, drum-mak ing, and more. It runs until early February, with an opening reception on December 8 from 1–3 pm.

Eptek is located at 130 Heather Moyse Drive, Summerside. Admission is by donation. For more info, call 902888-8373, visit peimuseum.ca, or follow @eptek.centre on social media.

This Town Is Small’s opening celebration in October

FOOD & DRINK

Orwell Corner fundraising supper

The Orwell Corner Historic Village Board is hosting a fundraising supper at 5 pm on November 2 at Orwell Historic Village. The meal will include a traditional roast beef dinner, tea, coffee, and dessert. Call Jim Culbert at 902-651-2202 or e-transfer to orwellcorner2023@gmail. com for tickets. 7 Old Uigg Rd, Orwell.

PEI Spirits Festival

Experience over 100 new, high-end spirits exclusively at the PEI Spirits Festival, presented by Johnnie Walker, from 7–9:30 pm on November 16 at the Delta Hotels by Marriott PEI. Tickets are on sale at peispiritsfest.ca, with a discount for tickets purchased before November 9. This tasting experience is a 19+ event. 18 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Frozen Pie Sale

Central Queens United in Hunter River is holding their annual Frozen Pie Sale from November 10–24. The 8-inch frozen pies are available in cherry, apple, strawberry/rhubarb, pumpkin, no-sugar apple, caramel/apple, blueberry, classic berry, and pecan. Pies can be ordered from members of the congregation or by contacting Lois at 902-621-0669. The pies will be available for pick up on December 12 from 12 noon–6 pm. Customers will be notified if the date of delivery changes.

Pancake breakfast

The Brackley Beach Women’s Institute will host a pancake breakfast from 8–10 am on November 23 at the Brackley Beach Community Centre. Diners can enjoy breakfast with friends and family. Community calendars for 2025 will be available for sale. 3330 Brackley Pt Rd, Brackley Beach. Info: 902-218-6984

Last call on the wall

Exhibitions closing this month

Bare

Various artists

Until November 3

Black Canvas Art Supplies, Charlottetown

Showcasing the works of local Island artists, this thought-provoking collection delves into the complexities of the human experience, exploring themes of identity, societal pressures, mental health, and personal narratives. Through a variety of mixed media artwork, Bare offers a unique opportunity for the audience to connect with the emotions and experiences of members of their community, to find solace in shared struggles, and to celebrate the perseverance that allows each of us to overcome adversity. From the depths of vulnerability to the heights of triumph, the artists featured in this exhibition share their unique perspectives and stories.

Your Community in Bloom

Various artists

Until November 8

Downtown Charlottetown

Artworks displayed in double-sided lightboxes installed on lampposts in downtown Charlottetown celebrate the natural beauty of PEI through the lens of community. From portraits to landscapes, and from cyanotypes to digital quilts, each artwork offers a unique interpretation of the Island’s complex and varied communities of humans, plants, and animals. The exhibit features 20 PEI-based artists: Angela Rowlings, Ann Winslow, Ashley Anne Clark, Barb MacLeod, Brenda Whiteway, Debra Wellner, Erin Arsenault, Kristen Moore, Lorna Mullen, Maurice Burgoyne, Monica Kani, Monica Macdonald, Nia Phillips,

Omar Broderick/Slickphotography, Paige Dudley, Renée Laprise, Rosalie Bourque, Sandra MacGillivray, Sarah Nicole Dart/Ukee Cruthu and Susana Rutherford/Firehorse Studios.

Turning Point

PEI Wood Turners Guild

Until November 15

Eptek Art & Culture Centre, Summerside

Featuring work by the PEI Wood Turners Guild, this exhibition explores a myriad of things that can be made on a wood turning lathe. A special focus

of this exhibit is in memory of Graham Goodwin and the work that he helped to inspire. Guild members have been showcasing free, live demonstrations of lathe-turned items, with upcoming events on November 3 from 1–3 pm, and again on November 15 from 12:30–3:30 pm.

Island Colours

June Ellis

Until November 30

MacNaught History Centre and Archives, Summerside

PEI artist June Ellis captures the Island’s rich colours on canvas. Having lived in rural PEI both as a child and an adult, Ellis has developed a deep connection to the Island’s beauty. She excels at capturing the soft colors of its sandy shores, lighthouses, and farmlands, using oil as her medium of choice. Ellis has studied with artists Henry Purdy, Lise Genova, Sandi Komst, and Maurice Bernard. Her work has been featured at various Island venues and added to private collections in every province across Canada, as well as in the United States, Italy, Spain, China, and Japan.

Untitled by Maurice Burgoyne

Misty Morning by June Ellis

Views from Below

New exhibition in Confederation Centre Concourse Gallery

Views from Below is on view in the Frederic S. and Ogden Martin Concourse Gallery at Confederation Centre of the Arts until January 12.

This exhibition, curated by Pan Wendt, presents irreverent works from the Gallery’s collection that undercut the exclusivity and self-seriousness of high culture. Featured artists deploy various ways to knock sacred cows off their pedestals—from absurdist humour to “low” imagery drawn from mass culture to sculptures made with

Breadalbane Gallery

New show with holiday-themed works—opening Nov 8

The Breadalbane Gallery will open its next show on November 8 with a reception from 6–8 pm, featuring many holiday-themed works. Artists include Patricia Lush, Sabine Nuesch, Xin Liu, Joan Sutton, Vian Emery, Zoe Novaczek, Denise Livingston, Will Baker, Marianne Janowicz, Silver Frith, Laura Bain, Samantha Joyce, Gail Rhyno, and Yuzhu Yang.

This non-profit community gallery opens a new show on the second Friday of each month. Artists wishing to show can submit photos of their work to breadalbane.gallery@gmail.com.

Gallery artists will also display works at the Small is Beautiful Christmas Craft Fair from 9 am–4 pm on November 23 at the Breadalbane

a chainsaw. Enjoy the flying pigs and vegetable-eating crocodiles.

The artists are Alexandra Haeseker, Robert Harris, Victor Cicansky, David Thauberger, Hal Forbes, William Featherson, Joan Jonas, Marvin Jones, Russell Stewart, Joyce Wieland, Colleen Wolstenholme, Donnalee Down, John Dohe, Rebecca Burke, Michael Fernandes, Elaine Genser, Sandra Meigs, Ransford Naugler, Bradford Naugler, Maxwell Bates. confederationcentre.com

Afternoon sky looking toward Rose Valley (detail), oil pastel by Marianne Janowicz

Community Centre. Located at 4023 Dixon Road, the gallery is open Tuesdays 11 am–3 pm, Wednesdays 9 am–1 pm, and Thursdays 4–8 pm.

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY!

• 22 Taps in our Taproom

• Tuesday Trivia Nights

• 3 Restaurants: Pizza, BBQ & Seafood

11 Brook St, Montague, PEI Brewery Open Daily, Year Round

Fri, November 29 6:30 pm Sat, November 30 5:00 pm

Rebecca Burke, Three Musclemen #1, 1984, charcoal and pastel on paper. Gift of the artist, 1997. Collection of Confederation Centre Art Gallery, CAG 98.13.2.

EXHIBITS

galleries, museums...

Acadian Museum of PEI

A textile exhibit featuring items from the museum’s own artifacts collection is currently on view. Visit the permanent exhibit and video, The Island Acadians: The Story oft a People. Acadian genealogy resources are available and there is a gift shop on site. Hours vary in November and December. Follow on FB for updates. 23 Main Dr. E, Miscouche.

AURA Art Gallery

Days on the Island—a photo diary of a mother by Sarah WangXin is on view until December 31. Unit 155, BDC Building, 119 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Blank Canvas Art Supplies

Bare, an exhibition by local Island artists, is on view until November 3. 10 Prince St, Charlottetown. blankcanvasartsupplies.ca

Breadalbane Gallery

A new show featuring holiday-themed works opens November 8 with a reception from 6–8 pm. Artists include: Patricia Lush, Sabine Nuesch, Xin Liu, Joan Sutton, Vian Emery, Zoe Novaczek, Denise Livingston, Will Baker, Marianne Janowicz, Silver Frith, Laura Bain, Samantha Joyce, Gail Rhyno, and Yuzhu Yang. Open Tuesdays 11 am–3 pm, Wednesdays 9 am–1 pm, and Thursdays 4–8 pm, and by request (902-200-3952, mjanowicz@hotmail.com). 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.

Confederation Centre Art Gallery

On view: Erica Rutherford: Her Lives and Works until January 5; The Sweet Spot until January 26; and Views from Below (in the Frederic S. and Ogden Martin Concourse Gallery) until January 12. Open daily. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown. confederationcentre.com

Cornwall Library Art Gallery

Darkness, a fall group show featuring local artists, is on view until November 29. The December youth art show will

open December 3 with a reception at 7 pm to meet the participating local artists. Contact the library at 902-629-8415 for information on displaying in the gallery. Open Tuesday–Wednesday (1–8:30 pm) and Thursday–Saturday (9:30 am–12:30 pm and 1–5:30 pm). 15 Mercedes Dr, Town Hall, Cornwall.

Downtown Charlottetown

Presented by the City of Charlottetown, Your Community in Bloom is on display until November 8. This lightbox exhibit features the artworks of 20 PEI-based artists displayed in double-sided lightboxes installed on lampposts in downtown Charlottetown. Visit charlottetown.ca/ publicart for the interactive map.

Eptek Art & Culture Centre

Turning Point, featuring work by the PEI Wood Turners Guild, is on view until November 15. Guild members will showcase free, live demonstrations of lathe-turned items on November 3 at 1 pm and November 15 at 12:30 pm. The Remembrance Day exhibit is currently on view. Created in collaboration with Greg Gallant of the PEI Regiment Museum, the exhibit highlights PEI’s Indigenous veterans. The Creator’s Gift, showcasing works by over 20 Mi’kmaq artists, will open November 26, with an opening reception on December 8 from 1–3 pm. Visit the permanent exhibition on the history and architecture of Summerside. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. peimuseum.ca

Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild

This Town Is Small (TTIS) is the new tenant at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery in The Guild. From November 14–December 19, TTIS will present a group exhibition featuring work from Island-based artists. Open Wednesday–Saturday from 12–5 pm. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown. thistownissmall.com

The Guild

The Visual Arts Educators Association of PEI’s exhibition, Inspire 2024: The Kit Bag Collection, will be on view on the new community art wall, upstairs at The Guild, from November 7–23. The exhibition will showcase the work of Island teachers and school staff. An opening reception will take place on November 7

from 4–5 pm. Open Tuesday–Friday from 12–5 pm, as well as during Guild events. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.

MacNaught History Centre and Archives Art Gallery

Island Colours by June Ellis is on view until November 30. Open Tuesday–Saturday from 10 am–4 pm. 75 Spring St, Summerside.

Red Island Cider

Beyond Abstraction: Where a new narrative begins by Paul Myer is on view until the end of December. 101 Longworth Ave, Charlottetown.

Festive Feast

With Chazz Smith’s Soul Food Quartet—Dec 11 & 12

Chastity (Chazz) and Michael Smith

This holiday season, Chef Michael and Chastity Smith, along with The Inn at Bay Fortune Brigade, in partnership with Delta Hotels by Marriott Prince Edward, are hosting a Festive Feast Party Extravaganza with music by Chazz Smith’s Soul Food Quartet. Taking place in the grand ballroom at the Delta in Charlottetown, this dinner event will be filled with holiday flavours and entertainment. The Festive Feast includes a cocktail hour and oyster bar, an interactive turkey dinner, wine, and prizes.

Choose between December 11 and 12, from 6 pm to midnight. Individual tickets and tables of eight available. Book tickets at innatbayfortune.com.

Fix Your Plate by

Tara Reeves

Immune boosters

A strong immune system is essential for fighting off infections and maintaining overall health. And, with cold and flu season approaching, it’s a good time to consider supporting your immune system. While there’s no quick fix, a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can significantly boost your immune response.

Prioritize a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune function. Consider supplementing with vitamin D, elderberry, echinacea, astragalus, garlic, if needed.

30 minutes of moderate-intensity exer cise most days of the week.

Limit alcohol and tobacco: alcohol consumption and tobacco use can weaken your immune system.

Incorporate immune-boosting herbs and spices like ginger, garlic, turmeric, and echinacea into your diet by adding them to meals, juicing them or adding them to tea. These foods have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help strengthen your immune system.

Don’t forget the importance of hydration in the colder months. Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health, including immune function, even in the winter. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day. Add some lime or lemon to your water for some added vitamin C.

By fueling your body with these nutrient-rich foods and herbs, you can provide your immune system with the essential building blocks it needs to function optimally. Remember, a balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to support your body’s natural defenses.

Additional Tips for a Strong Immune System:

Get enough sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to repair and rejuvenate.

Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress.

Stay active: Regular exercise helps improve circulation and strengthens your immune system. Aim for at least

Avoid processed foods: Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and sodium, which can negatively impact your overall health.

Fire Cider Recipe

Fire cider is a flavourful and immune-boosting concoction. Here’s a simple recipe to try:

Ingredients:

1 cup grated horseradish

1 cup grated ginger

1/2 cup grated onion

1/4 cup grated garlic

1/4 cup fresh turmeric root, grated

10-12 slices fresh jalapeño peppers

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup raw honey

1 quart raw apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. In a glass jar, combine the horseradish, ginger, onion, garlic, turmeric, jalapeño peppers, lemon juice, and honey.

2. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the ingredients, ensuring they are completely covered.

3. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 3 weeks, up to 6 months. Shake the jar daily to infuse the flavors.

4. After the infusion period, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or finemesh strainer into a clean glass jar.

How to use:

Take 1-2 tablespoons daily, diluted in warm water or honey.

You can also add it to your tea or use it as a marinade.

A FESTIVAL FEATURING THE ACADIAN MEAT PIE!

Regional competitions and the big finale in Rustico!

Saturday, November 16 Rustico

Sunday, November 17 Rollo Bay

Friday, November 22 Charlottetown

Sunday, December 1 Summerside

Friday, December 6 DeBlois

Sunday, December 8 Évangéline

CRAFT FAIRS & MARKETS

Craft Fair & Vendor Market

A craft fair and vendor market will take place at the Malcolm J Darrach Community Centre on November 2 from 8:30 am–1 pm. 1 Avonlea Dr, Charlottetown.

Westisle Christmas Market

The Westisle Christmas Market will be held on November 2 from 9 am–4 pm and November 3 from 12–4 pm at Westisle Composite High School. The market will feature over 100 local vendors selling Christmas goods. 39570 Western Rd, Elmsdale.

Country Craft Fair

The Wheatley River Women’s Institute is hosting a two-day Country Craft Fair on November 2 and 3 from 9 am–2 pm at the Wheatley River Community Hall. Island artisans will be selling their handmade goods on two levels of the hall and there will be a 50/50 draw. Lunch will also be available for purchase. Admission is at the door. This is a cash only event as cell service is unreliable at this venue. 16 Rackham Lane, Wheatley River. Info: wheatleyriverwi@gmail.com

Hunter River Holiday

Craft Fair

The Holiday Craft Fair at the Hunter River Community Centre will be held on November 9 from 10 am–3 pm. There will be a selection of holiday crafts and gifts on display, cider, and hot chocolate. Admission proceeds will go to the Dr. Kent G Ellis Heritage Park. 19816 Rte 2, Hunter River.

Milton Community Hall

Christmas Craft Fair

The Milton Community Hall Christmas Craft Fair will run on November 9 from 9 am–3 pm and on November 10 from

10 am–3 pm. There will be two floors of PEI crafters, bakers, and artisans, canteen service, and door prizes. Admission is at the door (free for youth aged 12 and under). Follow on FB for updates. 7 New Glasgow Rd, Rte 224, North Milton.

Bluefield Christmas Craft Fair

Bluefield High School will host its Christmas Craft Fair on November 15 from 5:30–9 pm and November 16 from 10 am–5 pm. Over 100 vendors will be showcasing Christmas decor, pottery, fibre arts, candles, jewelry and more. There will also be a bake sale, a canteen with hot cider, raffles, and door prizes. As part of their fundraising efforts, the Bluefield Band will also be selling (cash only) vouchers for poinsettias at VK Greenhouses (58 Allen St, Charlottetown). Admission is at the door (free for children under age 12). 924 Colville Rd, Rte 9, North Wiltshire.

Crapaud Christmas Craft Fair

The community of Crapaud will hold its Christmas Craft Fair from 9 am–4 pm on November 16 at the Crapaud Community Hall. The fair will offer two levels of local vendors selling food, crafts, and more, as well as a canteen. Admission is a small fee at the door. This is a cash only event. All proceeds will go to the hall. 36 Rte 13, Crapaud.

Gluten Free Holiday Market

Celiac Canada PEI Chapter is hosting a Gluten-free Holiday Market at the PEI Farm Centre on November 16 from 1–4 pm. The market will feature gluten-free food vendors, a raffle, cookie decorating, prizes and giveaways. Admission proceeds (free entry for children) will go toward supporting those affected by celiac disease on PEI. 420 University Ave, Charlottetown.

Kings Playhouse Holiday Fair and Market

The Kings Playhouse Holiday Fair and Market will be held on November 16 from 9 am–4 pm. The market will feature Island crafts, art, and food, and Santa Claus will make an appearance. Admission is at the door (free for children under age 12). 65 Grafton St, Georgetown. Info: kingsplayhouse.com

Mental Health & Addictions Artisan Market

A Mental Health and Addictions Artisan Market will be held at the Cymbria Lions Club on November 16 from 10 am–4 pm. The market will feature hand-crafted greeting cards, jewelry, resin artwork, plaster creations, pencil sketches, permanent jewelry, upcycled fabric creations and more. Over 20 vendors will showcase their goods, including Island Girl Studio, Bonded Sisters Permanent Jewelry, Wicker and Thread, Fabrications by Jess, Space & Time Creations, and Creations by Linda MacDonald. All vendors are in recovery from addiction or mental illness, or someone who supports them. Admission proceeds will go towards a community organization that offers programs and supports for those dealing with addictions or mental illness. Contact event organizer Patricia Doiron (902-2189669, patricia.doiron@outlook.com) for details. 2184 Church Rd, New Glasgow.

Rice Point WI Christmas Craft Fair

The Rice Point Women’s Institute will hold its annual Christmas Craft Fair at the Afton Community Centre on November 16 from 9 am–2 pm. Admission is free and canteen service will be available. 1552 PE-19, New Dominion.

Stratford Schools Craft Fair

Stratford schools will hold their annual Craft Fair on November 16 from 9 am–5 pm at Glen Stewart Primary School. The fair will feature local vendors and a bake sale. Proceeds will go toward helping support Stratford schools and students. Admission is by donation. 34 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford. Info: @stratfordschoolscraftfair on FB

Donagh Regional Craft Fair

Donagh Regional School will host its annual craft fair on November 16 from 9 am–3 pm and November 17 from 12–4 pm. 928 Bethel Rd, Donagh. Info: donaghhomeandschool@gmail.com

Holiday at Harbourfront

Harbourfront Theatre will be holding its festive open house event, Holiday at Harbourfront, on November 17 from 12–3 pm. The event will feature backstage tours, live music, homemade crafts for sale from local artisan sellers, and exclusive ticket deals. 124 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. Info: harbourfronttheatre.com

Blank Canvas Christmas Marketplace

Blank Canvas Art Supplies is hosting a Christmas Marketplace from November 19–December 23 with handmade gifts and products from 14 local artists and makers. 10 Prince St, Charlottetown. Info: blankcanvasartsupplies.ca

Colonel Gray Band Christmas Craft Fair

The Colonel Gray Band Christmas Craft Fair will be held on November 22 from 5:30–9 pm and November 23 from 10 am–5 pm at Colonel Gray High School. There will be over 100 vendors and 125 tables of homemade crafts, a wreath sale, a canteen, live music, and homemade fudge. Admission is at the door. 175 Spring Park Rd, Charlottetown.

Mistletoe Market

The Mistletoe Market, a boutique pop-up market, offers a festive setting to shop for local holiday gifts. Running each weekend from November 22–December 22 in Boulder Park, locals and visitors can browse eight rustic artisan huts that have been transformed into little stores. 175 Richmond St (greenspace located on the corner of Grafton and Church St), Charlottetown. charlottetownchristmasfestival.com

PEICC Christmas Craft Fair

PEI’s longest running craft show since 1965, the annual PEI Crafts Council Christmas Craft Fair will be held November 22 from 12–7 pm, November

23 from 10 am–5 pm, and November 24 from 11 am–4 pm at the Seaport (Port Charlottetown). There will be handpainted silk, clothing, nature art, books, quilts, knits, mustard, woodworking, weaving, embroidery, photography, pet designs, pottery, visual art, leatherwork, jewelry, chocolate, and much more. 1 Weymouth St, Charlottetown.

Seniors Active Living

Christmas Craft Fair

The Seniors Active Living Centre in the MacLauchlan Arena at UPEI will host a Christmas Craft Fair on November 23 from 9 am–3 pm. The fair will feature over 25 vendors with Island crafts, a raffle, and a fudge table. Proceeds will help support programs at the Centre. Admission is free. 560 University Ave, Charlottetown.

Small is Beautiful Christmas Craft Fair

The Small is Beautiful Christmas Craft Fair at the Breadalbane Community Centre will run from 9 am–4 pm on November 23. The Breadalbane Gallery artists will be selling cards, reproductions of their work, t-shirts printed with their images, and more. 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.

Victorian Christmas Market

A Charlottetown Christmas Festival

Signature Event, the Victorian Christmas Market takes place on Queen Street in downtown Charlottetown from

November 29–December 1. This 10th annual open-air market is reminiscent of European Christmas Markets and features over 50 artisans, crafters and food vendors, as well as hot cocoa and warm apple cider, fire pits and seating, live outdoor music, a Fresh Christmas Tree Shop, carolling, Yuletide Walking Tours, visits with Santa, and more. charlottetownchristmasfestival.com

Spring Park Holiday Market

Spring Park United will host its Holiday Market on November 30 from 9 am–12 noon. The market will feature baked goods, jams, jellies, pickles, games, puzzles, jewelry, scarves, crafts, Christmas decor, festive greenery and new-to-you gifts. Admission is by donation. 65 Kirkwood Dr, Charlottetown.

Christmas Craft Fair & Tea

The Benevolent Irish Society is hosting a Christmas Craft Fair & Tea at the Irish Cultural Centre on November 30 from 10 am–4 pm. Admission is at the door, and includes a door prize ticket. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

Indigenous Artisans Christmas Market

The Indigenous Christmas Artisans Market will bring over 50 Indigenous Artisans from across the Mi’kmaq Territory of Epekwitk together to share their history, art, and culture as part of the Charlottetown Christmas Festival.

EXPLORE

The 2024 Market will be held November 30 from 10 am–5 pm at Confederation Centre of the Arts. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown. lottetownchristmasfestival.com

Holiday Maker Market

The 10th annual Holiday Maker Market, featuring 150 artists, makers and food vendors from Atlantic Canada, will take place November 30 and December 1 from 10 am–5 pm at the Eastlink Centre in Charlottetown. Admission is at the door (free for children aged 10 and under) and covers entry for both days with proceeds going toward Small Business Grants. Follow on FB for updates. 46 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.

Marché de Noël

Marché de Noël will take place at the Centre Acadien Grand-Rustico on December 7 from 10 am–4 pm. The market will feature artisans selling local goods, Kay’s Bistro, and children’s activ ities. Admission is free. A donation of a non-perishable food item is welcome. If interested in being a vendor, call 902-9633252 or email info@conseilacadienrustico. org. 2244 Church Rd, New Glasgow.

Artisan Christmas Market

Stop by to see what local craftspeople and artisans make at the Charlottetown Farmers Market on December 8 and 15, from 10 am–3 pm. Admission and parking are free. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown.

VIEWS FROM BELOW

UNTIL JANUARY 12

This exhibition presents irreverent works from Confederation Centre Art Gallery’s collection. The artists featured deploy various ways to knock sacred cows off their pedestals, from absurdist humour and “low” imagery drawn from mass culture, to sculptures made with a chainsaw. Enjoy the flying pigs and vegetable-eating crocodiles!

Curated by Pan Wendt

ERICA RUTHERFORD: HER LIVES AND WORKS

UNTIL JANUARY 5

This show will include over 100 works, accompanied by memorabilia and photographs that support the stories told by the work itself. Erica Rutherford is the first Prince Edward Island artist to be featured at the prestigious La Biennale di Venezia.

SENIORS ART ACTIVITIES: FAMILY SUNDAYS

OCTOBER 31

Please visit our website for tickets and upcoming Art Activities dates.

NOVEMBER 24

Join us at 11:00 a.m. for an hour of FREE art and craft activities for the whole family.

Curated by Pan Wendt

Rebecca Burke, Three Musclemen #1, 1984, charcoal and pastel on paper. Gift of the artist, 1997. Collection of Confederation Centre Art Gallery, CAG 98.13.2

Erica Rutherford, Tokyo Toughies, 1971, serigraph on paper, 51 x 52 cm, Rutherford Family Collection

Erica Rutherford, The Picnic, 1985, serigraph on paper, ed.2/4. Gift of Gail Rutherford. Collection of Confederation Centre Art Gallery, CAG 2009.1.19

Holiday Home Decorating Contest

ARTS

Seniors Art Activities

Seniors Arts Activities are held at Confederation Centre of the Arts on Thursdays, 10 am–12 noon, from October 31 to December 5. Participants 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. Info/register: 902-566-1267; confederationcentre.com

Crafty Kids in Nature

Kids aged 6–12 can explore nature indoors from 11 am–4 pm at the Summerside Library on November 1–3. Activities include making animals out of pinecones, making animal footprints, and matching the footprint to the animal. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Life Drawing sessions

Drop-in life drawing sessions with a nude model are held weekly on Sundays from 2–4 pm at the Gertrude Cotton Art Centre. All skill levels are welcome. Doors open 1:30 pm. Participants are encouraged to arrive early for set up and must be 18+ or have parent/guardian written permission. Some easels are provided but participants must bring their own drawing material. Life Drawing PEI is a not-for-profit organization. There is a fee for sessions, with proceeds going toward an honorarium for the model. Email lifedrawingpei2022@gmail.com if interested in being a model. Follow @ LifeDrawingPEI on FB for updates. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford.

PEI Wood Turners Guild demonstrations at Eptek

Members of the PEI Wood Turners Guild will be showcasing free, live demonstrations of lathe-turned items on select Sundays from 1–3:30 pm. Demonstrations include an oyster knife handle by Jason Woodside, a potato masher by John Bernard, and a segment bowl by Wilfred Thompson on November 3; and a gnome by John Bernard, and small bowl by Dave McKay on November 15. Everyone is welcome. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. Info: peimuseum.ca

Art Hive Pop-up

The next Creative PEI Art Hive Popups at the Charlottetown Library are on November 6 and 20 from 5–7 pm. Drop in, make art, and chat. Supplies provided or bring a current project. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Kids Crafternoon

Kids of all ages can drop by the Summerside Library between 1–3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays for crafting time. Activities this month include: Remembrance Day lanterns (Nov 9–10); paper planes and more (Nov 16–17); paper pizza (Nov 23–24); and build something (Nov 30). 57 Central St, Summerside.

Crafternoon

Crafternoon takes place on November 13 at 1 pm in the Makerspace at the Charlottetown Library. This month, participants will try abstract geometric painting to create their own work of art. All materials are supplied. Register in advance at 902-368-4642. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Needlecraft

Bring needlecraft paraphernalia and join a needlecrafting session at the Summerside Library on November 14 and 28 at 2 pm for some crafting and social time with knitters, crocheters, rug hookers, and other fibre and textile makers. All skill levels are welcome. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Sewing Club

Join fellow sewing and mending enthusiasts in the Makerspace at the Charlottetown Library on November 14 from 5–8 pm. Bring a current project to work on or check it out to see what the club has to offer. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Visitor appreciation event at Eptek

Charlottetown residents are invited to participate in this holiday season activity and share in the magical spirit with your neighbours and family by decorating the outside of your

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MONDAY, DECEMBER 2

Judging will take place the week of December 9

To register, call 902-628-5809 or email: jedoucette@charlottetown.ca

Art Journaling Club

The Art Journaling Club meets this month at the Summerside Library on November 4 at 6:30 pm. Create an untraditional journal to record special moments using art and pictures rather than words. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Fibre Arts Club

Fibre Arts Club takes place weekly on Tuesdays at the Charlottetown Library. Bring supplies or a current project and drop in between 1–3 pm to join other knitters, crocheters, rug hookers, and fibre and textile makers for crafting and social time. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

The Eptek Art & Culture Centre will host a visitor appreciation event on November 15 to thank the public for their continued support. Running from 12–4 pm, the event will feature PEI Woodturners’ Guild demos, free refreshments and snacks, and a raffle basket with PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation swag. Visitors and Foundation members will also enjoy a gift shop discount. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Makers Session

The next drop-in Makers Session at Eptek & Art Culture Centre is on November 17 from 1–3 pm. Makers are invited to gather their latest project, or one they’ve been meaning to finish, and join the free session. See what other makers are creating. All are welcome (BYO project). 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild

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

from 7–9 pm at the Benevolent Irish Society. The next meeting is November 20. New members and visitors are welcome. This is a scent-free meeting. Info: Roberta (902-393-3222); @Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild of PEI on FB. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

3D Print and Create

Learn about 3D printing with library staff in the Makerspace at the Charlottetown Library on November 21 at 4 pm. Decorate and bedazzle 3D printed heart charms for Crocs. Register at 902-3684642 to reserve a spot. All ages welcome. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Call for artists

The City of Charlottetown is seeking submissions from artists for its public art project, Traffic Control Cabinet Wrap. The deadline to submit artwork is November 22. Visit charlottetown.ca/ publicart to learn more and to apply.

Family Sundays at CCAG

Confederation Centre Art Gallery is hosting free art and craft activities for the whole family. Explore current exhibitions at a leisurely pace and create fun and simple crafts to take home at Family Sunday on November 24 from 11 am–12 noon. Drop in for a bit or stay the full hour. All materials will be provided. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown.

PEI Modern Quilt Guild

The PEI Modern Quilt Guild meets on the fourth Thursday of each month from 7–9 pm. The next meeting is November 28. This is a scent-free group. If interested in attending a meeting as a guest or for inquiries, contact peimqg@gmail.com.

Pottery in the Park

The winter session of pottery classes at the PEI Potters Studio, located in Victoria Park in Charlottetown, will begin the week of January 6 and run for 10 weeks. Perfect for beginners as well as those with previous experience, classes are taught by professional Island potters and are designed to be fun and educational. Classes are small, relaxed, and informal. The class covers the basics of clay preparation, wheel-throwing techniques, and glazing and decoration. Hand-building techniques can be explored depending on interest. A great way to relieve stress and enhance creativity while learning a new skill, participants create their own pieces from start to finish. Adult beginner classes run on Mondays and Thursdays (choose one) from 6:30–9:30 pm. Classes for children run on Saturdays beginning January 11: from 9–11 am (ages 9–11) and from 11:30 am–1:30 pm (ages 12–14+). Online registration opens December 9 from 7–8 pm. Due to limitied space, the selection process is as follows: adults who register during this timeframe will be entered into a software program that selects names randomly. Selected participants will be notified promptly. For details on classes, registration information, and more, visit peipottersstudio.ca. Questions can be forwarded by email to registration@peipottersstudio.ca.

PEI CRAFTS COUNCIL

CRAFT FAIR CHRISTMAS

at the SEAPORT

PORT CHARLOTTETOWN

Access by Stan MacPherson Way, street between Receivers Coffee and the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI building

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 22

12 PM - 7 PM SATURDAY NOVEMBER 23 10 AM - 5 PM SUNDAY NOVEMBER 24 11 AM - 4 PM

Carvings by Lucus Craft

SCREEN

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

The Guild has been transformed into a raucous, wild celebration of cult cinema for a special screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show on October 28, 29, and 30, from 7–10 pm. This interactive spectacle will feature live audience participation, Charlottetown Burlesque performances, and more. PEERS Alliance, in collaboration with Charlottetown Burlesque and Pride PEI, is kicking off its HIV awareness campaign during the celebration. With entertainment, education, and community engagement rolled into one, attendees are encouraged to wear their finest costumes for a chance to win a prize. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Eptek Film Series

The Friends of Eptek Centre’s Lunchtime Film Series continues until the end of April. The films, some new and some from late Friend Blanche Hogg, are screened on Thursdays at noon in the main gallery at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside. There is no charge for the film presentation. Upcoming screenings include: The Divine Craft of Carpentry on October 31; Forgotten Warriors on November 7; Lament of the Irish Immigrant: Woods Music Part One

on November 14; Kwa’u’tu: Micmac and Maliseet Artists on November 21; and Picturing a People: George Johnston, Tlingit Photographer on November 28. 130 Heather Moyse Drive, Summerside.

PD Day Movies

Free movie screenings take place at the Charlottetown Library on PD Days at 1 pm this fall. The lineup is: The Secret Life of Pets on November 1; Toy Story on November 7; Up on November 8; and The Little Mermaid (animated) on November 22. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Afternoon Movie

Visit the Charlottetown Library for an afternoon movie on November 5 at 1 pm. This month they will screen Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964). 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Anime Club (18+)

Watch and discuss an episode of an anime at the Charlottetown Library on November 12 at 6 pm. Anime is shown in original Japanese with English subtitles. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Monday Movie

Watch a movie on the big screen in the auditorium at the Charlottetown Library on November 25 at 6 pm. This month’s film is the 80s classic The Breakfast Club (Rated R). Popcorn is provided while supplies last. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

The Journey Home

The premiere of The Journey Home, a documentary presented by Jack Abby Productions in association with My Journey to Just Live, will be screened on November 16 at Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown.

The film follows a wife, mother, and cancer thriver Michelle Hughes on a personal journey to redefine a day that a rare sarcoma cancer once stole from her. For three years Michelle has navigated the challenges of incurable cancer. On the three-year anniversary of her diagnosis, she is attempting to re-write her history by swimming, biking, and running over 120 kms on a personal route that once left her with so much uncertainty.

The evening will honour Michelle’s choice to Just Live, and celebrate one cancer thriver’s fight to choose hard, chase joy, and live every day to the fullest. A live Q&A session with Michelle, her husband Ty, filmmaker Lance Phillips, and special guests will follow the screening.

A portion of the proceeds will

Fallen Heroes

Documentary screening at Cineplex Cinemas—Nov 3

Fallen Heroes: Their Journey Home will be screened at Cineplex Cinemas in Charlottetown on November 3 at 10:30 am. The documentary pays tribute to the courage and bravery of Canadian Armed Forces members who served in Afghanistan.

Fallen Heroes sheds light on the Afghan war’s impact on Canadians and highlights the sacrifices of military personnel. It is essential viewing

be donated to Michelle and Ty’s non-profit, Just Live Events Inc and allocated to Hope Happens Here, a women’s wellness retreat for cancer survivors, thrivers, and conquerors.

Showtime is at 7 pm. Visit ticketpro. ca for tickets.

for understanding this chapter in Canadian history. Produced by Karen Storwick and directed by Robert Curtin of Combined Forces (combinedforces.ca), the film recently completed a Canada-wide screening, including a showing on Parliament Hill.

Over 40,000 Canadian Armed Forces members served in Afghanistan during the 14-year campaign, yet many Canadians remain unaware of its significance. Fallen Heroes lays the groundwork for a planned 10-part documentary series to preserve this history for future generations.

Doors open at 10 am. Visit Eventbrite for ticket rates.

Welcome to City Cinema from The Charlottetown Film Society

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

Advance Tickets

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

Subject to Change

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

Rent City Cinema

City Cinema is available for rent for private film viewings! We provide the projectionist and will have the canteen and bar open for your group. Please fill out the form under Venue Rental on our website and we’ll respond with information and rates.

Admission

Regular $12

Member $9

65 and over $10

14 and under $ 8

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

Annual membership - $25.00

The Shining

October 29

18A, violence, strong language. Dir: Stanley Kubrick, US, 1980, 146 min. Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd.

Night of the Living

Dead

October 29, 31

14A, violence. Dir: George A Romero, US, 1968, 96 min. Duane Jones, Judith O’Dea, Karl Hardman.

A Nightmare on Elm Street

October 30

R, violence, gore. Dir: Wes Craven, US, 1984, 91 min. Heather LangenKamp, Johnny Depp, Robert Englund.

A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors

October 30

R, violence, gore, nudity. Dir: Chuck Russell, US, 1987, 96 min. Heather Langenkamp, Robert Englund.

The Exorcist

October 31

18A, strong language. disturbing images. Dir: William Friedkin, US, 1973, 122 min. Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Linda Blair.

Anora

November 1–7

18A. sexual content, nudity, coarse language. Dir: Sean Baker, US, 2024, 139 min. Mikey Madison, Paul Weissman, Lindsey Normington. In English and Russian with English subtitles. Winner Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival.

“A massive jittery comedown of nervous laughs follows a giggly, addictive high in Sean Baker’s Anora. Its wild energy and cynicism-free compassion matches the writer-director’s previous deep dives into the margins of American life… The glowing, sparky heroine of Anora is 23-year-old Anora herself, or ‘Ani’ as she prefers: she’s a lap dancer in a Brooklyn club who gets into an out-of-hours paid-sex relationship with Ivan, a stupidly rich Russian young layabout two years her junior… Things move fast. Days later, Ivan is paying Ani for a whole week in Vegas with his pals and proposing marriage. It’s all beaming smiles and devil-may-care partying as Ani runs with the crazy momentum of the whole thing, saying ‘yes’, accepting a ring, finding it genuinely cute when Ivan says he loves her, and, finally, marrying him in Vegas’s Little White Chapel… The smiles soon fade, with Baker bursting the cosy bubble of this fledgling relationship.... It shouldn’t all be so funny, but it is, and it’s to Baker’s huge credit that he’s able to inspire laughs and huge enjoyment from this madcap story without

leaving you feeling that the woman at the heart of this mess has been short-changed and exploited for our pleasure. Quite the opposite.” —Dave Calhoun, Time Out (UK)

Blitz

November 8–13

14A, frightening scenes. Dir: Steve McQueen, US, 2024, 120 min. Saoirse Ronan, Harris Dickinson, Benjamin Clementine.

“Set in September 1940, when London was getting pulverised from above. The writer-director Steve McQueen has been nurturing the project for over 20 years, and through his research work with the Imperial War Museum and his consummate skill as a stylist, he has delivered a film that unfolds as a breathtaking love letter to a complex and cosmopolitan city on the brink of collapse. The plot is steeped in fable and follows nine-year-old George, an evacuee refusenik who abandons the train to the countryside and decides instead to make the perilous journey back home across his bomb-blasted city. And so, over a five-mile odyssey… our pint-sized scamp encounters a plethora of eccentric characters during episodic adventures that occur under the ever-present threat of instant annihilation. At home, meanwhile, the single mother and factory worker Rita begins her own search for George… The film crosscuts between the two missions, son and mother, and intersperses their actions with ominous shots of German bombs falling and, most devastatingly, panoramic vistas depicting London in flames. Arguably the most heroic character in the film is the city. And Blitz is, instantly, one of the great ‘London Movies’.” —Kevin Maher, The Times (UK)

Bird

November 14–19

14A. Strong language, violence. Dir: Andrea Arnold, UK/France, 2024, 119 min. Barry Keoghan, Franz Rogowski, Jasmine Jobson.

“Twelve-year-old Bailey is a kid adrift. She lives in a squat in Gravesend, Kent with her older brother Hunter and tattooed-to-theeyeballs dad Bug, a sparky man-child who defines the word ‘chaos’ with every move he makes and word he speaks. Right up the top of Bird, which unfolds over a few hazy summer days, Bug announces to Bailey that he’s going to marry his girlfriend on Saturday,

a fixation that competes for his attention with a mad project to extract some hallucinogens from a toad to fund the nuptials... Appropriately for the Kentish setting, there are enough side characters and events in Bird for a Charles Dickens novel. But the presence that spins it into something more than a fast and loud Ken Loach film with blaring Fontaines DC on the soundtrack is the stranger Bailey meets in a field at dawn after running away from the mess of her family life. He’s Bird, a spirit-like, compassionate outsider… Given what we’ve experienced up to this point, it feels inevitable that he’s another ‘bad thing’ in Bailey’s life – but that’s not where this goes… And if ever a film puts its arm round a kid and says: ‘Don’t worry, I’ve got you’, that’s Bird and Bailey. She’s a character you feel Arnold would lie on railtracks to protect – and that’s a powerful, moving instinct to share.” —Dave Calhoun, Time Out (UK)

Conclave

November 20–26

PG. Dir: Edward Berger, US, 2024, 120 min. Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow. Based on Robert Harris’ 2016 novel “Conclave.” With English subtitles.

“Conclave begins with Cardinal Thomas Lawrence rushing to the dying pope’s bedside. The cardinal’s panicked breathing echoes through the Vatican as he rushes through the darkened halls, and it’s a solemn opening to a film burdened with heavy questions about faith and ambition… As the dean of the College of Cardinals, it falls on Lawrence to put together a gathering within the Sistine Chapel of cardinals from around the world to vote on which of them will become the new pope… During the voting process, the cardinals have to be sequestered away from the world to ensure that no outside influences can affect their decision-making. It’s a cunning setup for a simmering locked-room thriller, trapping these men and their secrets in a single location that becomes more tense with each new round of voting. And it helps that the cardinals, though pious men of God, behave like jealous high schoolers vying to become class president, dividing themselves into canteen cliques and gossiping incessantly about their rivals… Watching the candidates rise and fall over the course of the election makes for a compelling spectacle, and Conclave has a knack for adding another wrinkle to the race at just the right time to maintain the suspense.” —Ross McIndoe, Slant Magazine

City Cinema and The Benevolent Irish Society present:

Angela’s Ashes

November 24, 4 pm

14A. Dir: Alan Parker, US, 2000, 145 min. Robert Carlyle, Emily Watson, Kerry Condon.

An Irish Catholic family returns to 1930s Limerick after a child’s death in America. The

unemployed I.R.A. veteran father struggles with poverty, prejudice and alcoholism as the family endures harsh slum conditions.

Classic of the Month:

One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest

November 27–30

14A, strong language. Dir: Milos Forman, US, 1975, 133 min. Jack Nicholson, Louise Fletcher, Danny DeVito, Christopher Lloyd.

1976 Academy Award Winner for Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Director, and Screenplay.

“R.P. McMurphy, a convict who has himself transferred to a state mental institution by feigning insanity, draws a frighteningly persuasive portrait of a preeminently sane man being pushed to the outer limits of his sanity by the need to conform to hospital rules and regulations, as enunciated by Nurse Ratched... On his ward, McMurphy becomes a leader, pushing the mentally and physically disabled to rediscover their potential, testing hospital regulations to their limits, finding ways (generally extralegal) to break through the shuffling apathy of his ward-mates. And always, these adventures bring him up against the rigid, humorless, enormously efficient Nurse Ratched… On the surface, she is the model nurse, using her authority with a skill and impartiality that make her, in the words of the head of the hospital, ‘the best nurse we have.’ That she is also, in her daily encounter sessions, destroying the men on her ward is wholly beside the point.” —Arthur Knight, The Hollywood Reporter “An all but flawless film. It is a movie of numbing power with a raw humor that induces laughter made shrill by an undercurrent of despair.” —Desmond Ryan, The Philadelphia Enquirer

city cinema schedule

OCTOBER

Night of…Living Dead The Shining Nightmare on Elm St Nightmare on Elm St 3: Dream Warriors Night of…Living Dead The Exorcist

NOVEMBER

Anora

Anora

Anora

Anora

Anora

Anora

Anora Blitz Blitz Blitz Blitz Blitz Blitz Blitz Bird Bird Bird Bird Bird Bird Bird Conclave Conclave Conclave Conclave Conclave Angela’s Ashes Conclave Conclave Conclave One Flew Over… One Flew Over…

One Flew Over… One Flew Over… One Flew Over…

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

Nov 30 - Dec 1

Dec 6 - 15 (Weekends)

Charlottetown Tree Lighting - Confederation Centre Plaza

Indigenous Artisans Market - Confederation Centre

Charlottetown Christmas Parade

Holiday Maker Market - Eastlink Centre

Victorian Christmas Experience - Beaconsfield

Deck the Hall - Founders’ Food Hall & Market

QUEEN ST

FRIDAY 5 - 9PM SATURDAY 10 - 9PM

Charlottetown Zine Fest

Third annual event at Charlottetown Library—Nov 9

The third annual Charlottetown Zine Fest will take place from 10 am–4 pm on November 9 in the Rotary Auditorium at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre.

Zine Fest is a celebration of DIY publishing that highlights the work of zine makers, small press publishers, and all sorts of independent authors and artists.

The public is invited to stop by throughout the day to browse and buy unique publications from dozens of participants. Some tables may accept cards but many will be cash only.

Admission is free and all are welcome. Follow @chtownzinefest for updates and event details.

The Library is located at 97 Queen Street in Charlottetown.

BOOK CLUBS

Silent Book Club

Silent Book Club will meet at the Charlottetown Library on November 3 from 1:30–3:30 pm. There is no assigned reading at Silent Book Club—audiobooks, ebooks, textbooks, comic books it is bring-your-own-book. Everyone settles in for an hour of silent, sustained reading. At the end of the hour, attendees can socialize—or not. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Eptek Book Club

The Eptek Art & Culture Centre Book Club will meet on November 7 at 4 pm to discuss Of Women and Salt by Gabriela Garcia. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Book’in it Walking Club

The next book club meeting will be held at the Summerside Library on November 12 at 10 am. Participants will head outside for a 20-minute stroll before returning to the library to discuss the latest reading selection. Register in advance (902-436-7323) and get a copy of the current book at the front desk. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Afternoon Book Club

A new afternoon book club will begin at the Summerside Library on November 18 at 1 pm. The first few books will chosen by Club members at the first meeting. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Monday Book Club

The Book Club will meet in the Bluejay Room at the Charlottetown Library on November 18 at 6 pm to discuss The

Tanya Talaga

In conversation with Jenene Wooldridge

Bookmark and UPEI’s Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research, and Applied Studies welcome Tanya Talaga to Charlottetown for the launch of her new book, The Knowing, on November 7 at 7 pm in the UPEI Performing Arts Centre. The evening will be moderated by Jenene Wooldridge, Executive Director of L’nuey.

Alice Network by Kate Quinn. Pick up a copy of the latest book club selection at the welcome desk. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Book Lovers Book Club

The next informal, conversation-style book club at the Charlottetown Library is on November 19 at 6 pm. Participants chat about what they are currently reading, or old favourites, give and get recommendations, and share their love of reading with fellow bibliophiles. No assigned reading, no pressure, no registration. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Summerside Book Club

Join book club members 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 November 30 at 2 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Marlene Campbell book launch

Lefurgey Centre—Nov 17

PEI author Marlene Campbell will launch her new book, Name Your Game, a story about family and community, and the ties that bind them, on November 17 at 1:30 pm at the Lefurgey Cultural Centre. 205 Prince St, Summerside.

The Knowing is an exploration of Talaga’s family story and a retelling of the history of the country we now call Canada. For generations, Indigenous peoples have known that their family members disappeared— many sent to residential schools, “Indian hospitals,” and asylums through a coordinated system designed to destroy who First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples are. This is one of Canada’s greatest open secrets—an unhealed wound that, until recently, lay hidden by shame and abandonment.

Talaga retells this history through an Indigenous lens, beginning with the life of her great-great-grandmother, Annie Carpenter, and her family as they experienced decades of government- and Church-sanctioned enfranchisement and genocide. Deeply personal and meticulously researched, The Knowing is a seminal unravelling of the centuries-long oppression of Indigenous peoples that continues to reverberate in these communities today.

Of Anishinaabe and Polish descent, Talaga was born and raised in Toronto and is a member of Fort William First Nation. She is the acclaimed author of the national bestseller Seven Fallen Feathers, which won the RBC Taylor Prize, the Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for

Pownal Street Press expands

Increased availability and distribution for local business

Pownal Street Press, a Charlottetown independent press co-founded by Mo Duffy and Gen Loughlin, is expanding its availability across Canada and the United States through partnerships with Raincoast and Orca Books for distribution.

Duffy and Loughlin established the

Author

Political Writing, and the First Nation Communities Read: Young Adult/ Adult Award. She is also the author of the national bestseller All Our Relations: Finding the Path Forward. For more than 20 years, she was a journalist at the Toronto Star and is now a regular columnist at the Globe and Mail. Talaga is the founder of Makwa Creative, a production company formed to elevate Indigenous voices and stories.

Anyone who wishes to engage in Truth and Reconciliation are encouraged to attend this conversation. The free, ticketed event is open to everyone. Tickets are available online at bookmarkreads.ca/events or by calling 902-566-4888. The event will discuss a number of challenging topics, including but not limited to historical traumas, the Residential School System, sexual abuse, and suicide.

press to share compelling stories, focusing on picture books, mind-body-spirit themes, and diverse voices. Their children’s titles include A is for Anne, with art by Ellie Arscott, and Have You Seen A Whale Exhale, written by Caroline Woodward and illustrated by Claire Victoria Watson. Their adult offerings include Love Notes to Grievers by Angela Morris, and On the Edge of Being by Sharifa Sharif, an extraordinary narrative from Afghanistan that reflects the strength of a nation and its women. Visit pownalstreetpress.com for their complete list of titles and more information.

Tanya Talaga

A gift of Island Poetry

ONLY A RECESSION

After hunger two days long, sitting happy before a plate of beans,

I delicately slit each kernel with my incisors, let my tongue run twitching with joy across the texture of the meat.

— Milton Acorn

Known as “The People’s Poet,” Milton Acorn (1923–1986) was the author of ten books and winner of the Governor General’s Award for poetry. Reprinted with permission from The Edge of Home.

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

READERS/WRITERS

An Evening with Ted Barris

Ted Barris will launch his new book, Battle of Britain: Canadian Airmen in Their Finest Hour, in the Rotary Auditorium at the Charlottetown Library on October 30 at 6:30 pm. Presented by Bookmark, this event is open to all. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Karen MacLeod-Wilkee book launch

Karen MacLeod-Wilkie is hosting a book launch at 1561 Rte 225, North Wiltshire, on November 3 from 2–4 pm to celebrate the release of her new book, Isle of the Dawning Sun, the first installment of Sapphire’s Guardian Adventures. All of her books will be available for purchase (cash or e-transfer). There will be cake, tea, coffee, and punch. The author will also have a table at the Holiday Maker Market, November 30–December 1, at Eastlink Centre in Charlottetown.

Striking Stories from PEI’s Past

Striking Stories from PEI’s Past will take place at Bonshaw Hall on November 3 at 2 pm. Theresa Redmond, author of Bound, will share stories of Island history, focusing on influential yet overlooked women like Suzanne Torianno and

revealing hidden aspects of early PEI, including the roles of women, Quakers, and slavery. The presentation will feature Scott Parsons, Order of PEI recipient and co-founder of the Black Cultural Society, who, with Em Peters, will explore PEI’s Black history through stories and songs. A Q&A will follow, and copies of Bound will be available for purchase. Admission is by donation, with proceeds supporting the Hall.

Stella Shepard book launch

Stella Shepard will launch her novel The Baby Train at Trinity United on November 10 from 2–4 pm. The event will open with Julie Pellissier-Lush, a Mi’kmaq Knowledge Keeper, hand-drumming a traditional woman’s song. Charlottetown singer-songwriter Scott Parsons will perform, and Norah Pendergast, an artist and writer, will speak about her research into the unethical adoption practices

stories, receive a free copy of the book, meet the authors, mingle with fellow community members, and enjoy a live performance by the Queer Choir. 111 Queen Street, Charlottetown. Info/tickets: eventbrite.ca

French for the Future National Essay Contest

Students are invited to write and submit a 750-word essay, in French, for French for the Future’s 2024–25 National Essay Contest. The theme for this year is: What makes a good friend? Students can participate in one of two categories that apply to them: French as a first language or French as a second language. Since 2005, the contest has enabled students in Grades 10, 11 and 12 (Secondary 4 to CEGEP in Quebec) to win a scholarship to continue their post-secondary studies entirely or partially in French. This year, 102 scholarships ranging from $1000 to $28,000 will be awarded by 16 partner institutions, including Collège de l’Île in PEI. In addition to providing financial support for post-secondary studies, the contest is designed to encourage students

PEI BOOKS

The Baby Train

Stella Shepard

Stella Shepard will release her latest novel The Baby Train via Nimbus Publishing this month. A book launch event will be held from 2–4 pm on November 10 at Trinity United in Charlottetown, with performances and readings by Julie Pellissier-Lush, Scott Parsons, and Norah Pendergast. All are welcome.

The Baby Train follows Apple, who was thrust into the foster care system at an early age, moving from house to house on PEI without finding a permanent home until her teenage years, when she is taken in by a couple who never managed to have children themselves. When she falls pregnant, her foster parents are keen to raise the baby while Apple remains in the house—to live as a family. However, that opportunity is torn away from her by members of the Catholic Church, along with social workers and government officials. Their vicious practices take the babies of unwed mothers and give them to wealthy families in exchange for large “donations” to the church. Apple’s beloved baby ends up with a rich couple in the U.S. and is lost to her. The Baby Train traces her life in the aftermath of that loss as she raises subsequent children, forms deep bonds of friendship with other women struggling against society’s rigid norms, and carries an unending love

for her firstborn child. The book also follows her baby’s path, watching his affluent yet neglected childhood and adulthood unfold. He never knows that his birth mother still yearns for him and lights birthday candles for him every year.

The shameful legacy of forced and coerced adoption in Eastern Canada is brought to life in this sweeping sequel to Ashes of My Dreams.

The Baby Train is dedicated to unwed mothers. They are the inspiration for this novel. It is available locally at Bookmark and via Amazon.

Sacred Thought:

Mi’kmaq Meditations for our Times

Elder

George Paul

Sacred Thought: Mi’kmaq Meditations for Our Times by Mi’kmaq Elder George Paul, released via PEI’s Pownal Street Press on October 15, offers a philosophical exploration of traditional Mi’kmaq knowledge.

Practiced and maintained by North American Indigenous tribes since time immemorial, this search for spirituality draws on traditional knowledge, oral tradition, and symbols related to the environment and the universe. From the ceremonial to the sacred, the author reflects on the legends, stories, and designs of his ancestors, offering new perspectives to modern populations across Turtle Island who are eager to look inward. Elder Paul guides readers on a journey toward deeper understanding. Through creation stories, the Medicine Wheel, and Mi’kmaq legends, he delves into the heart of traditional knowledge. A lifelong teacher, Elder Paul wrote this book to share his Indigenous teachings with a broader audience.

Elder George Paul, or Spirit name “Sky Blue Eagle,” was born in Metepenagiag First Nation along the Miramichi River, New Brunswick. For over four decades, he has been involved with the Indigenous Traditional Movement, supporting the revival of Mi’kmaq songs, chants and ceremonies. A respected voice across Mi’kma’ki, Elder Paul is known for his expertise in Indigenous Studies and public speaking. A voice for his people, Elder Paul collaborates with schools, universities, and government agencies to support the development of Indigenous music, language, art and dance in school curriculum. He authored The Honour Song and My Journey to The Honour Song and has contributed to documentaries with UNB, APTN, and CBC. pownalstreetpress.com

Finding Home at the Harbour

Island Studies Press has released Finding Home at the Harbour, a collection of illustrated essays about St. Peters Harbour, PEI, by Barbara Palmer Rousseau.

A frequent summer visitor to PEI, Rousseau experienced its true beauty when she moved from Ontario to the Island. At her cottage in St. Peters Harbour on the northeast shore, she learned the seasonal rhythms of spring peepers and barefoot beach walks, fall hurricanes and winter freeze-up. Her creativity returned as she began to sketch her fox family neighbours, the nearby dunes and the sand-locked lighthouse. Weaving natural history with her own story and illustrations, Rousseau highlights the resilience of the Island and its inhabitants to ongoing environmental change. Her essays reflect on the fluid nature of the shore and tell a story of adaptation and hope.

Rousseau moved to PEI in 2020 to

return to school after a 30-year career in Ottawa’s software development industry. She is currently completing a Master of Arts in Island Studies (MAIS) at UPEI, studying the environmental history of the north shore dunes and the resulting implications for the future of the Island.

Books are available locally at Bookmark in Charlottetown, Coles in Summerside, and online.

Orchard of the Tame

Marlo Meekins and Nick Cross

PEI’s

Orchard

This coming-of-age/dark fantasy follows River Siren, a young mermaid navigating the beauty and horror of the world outside of her prison, on her journey towards self actualization. With help from her newfound friends she must overcome her fears and confront the monster who kept her caged.

“Orchard of the Tame is a wonderfully strange, personal, funny, dark, moving fairytale created by two of my favorite people in the world, brilliantly realized in gorgeous black & white. Ainsprid is one of the weirdest, creepiest villains ever,” says Patrick McHale, author of Over the Garden Wall.

Founded by PEI comic artist couple, Troy Little and Brenda Hickey, Pegamoose Press began as a venue to self-publish their quirky creator owned books and has, in 2024, grown to include other titles with a similar offbeat vibe.

pegamoosepress.com

Meddling with Mistletoe

Liz Johnson

Liz Johnson, the New York Times bestselling author of more than 20 novels, including the Prince Edward Island Dreams series, released her latest book,

Barbara Palmer Rousseau

Pegamoose Press presents

of the Tame, a debut graphic novel by Marlo Meekins and Nick Cross.

Meddling with Mistletoe, in September. Johnson returns to her popular setting of the Red Door Inn on beautiful Prince Edward Island for a Christmas romance. With its undeniable charm, PEI is the perfect place to spend the holiday season—especially when love is in the air.

Whitney Garrett isn’t looking for love. She’s only looking to show her parents she can make something of her life in culinary school. When she meets Daniel Sloan, her friend Aretha Franklin Sloan’s nephew, she can’t deny an instant attraction. But then Aretha asks her to help set up Daniel and a visiting businesswoman. As she and Aretha begin meddling with mistletoe, Whitney soon realizes that she might be Daniel’s perfect match.

Flash Write

Kevin Porter

Thirty years after its initial publication, Kevin Porter’s first collection of poetry is being reprinted. Flash Write, published by the West Prince-based poet in 1994 when he was in his early 20s, came before parenthood and the busy career and life in his community.

“On occasion I still go back to those poems, they’re still some of

my favourites,” he says. “It was just the beginning of my writing career. They were simple themes but a start for me and I had so much encouragement from members of the local arts community.”

People like Alan Graham, a wellknown poet and seasoned writer, edited Flash Write, while his wife Mary Graham, also a poet, handled the typing and layout. It was published as part of a series by the West Prince Arts Council highlighting local writers.

Kevin followed up Flash Write with Facing the Wind (2000), and most recently, Poems My Father Taught Me (2023).

The updated reprint of Flash Write will be launched in November. Books will be available directly from the author (kevinporter@eastlink.ca) and also from select locations across PEI. Follow @ Poems My Father Taught Me on Facebook for updates.

this is all we know

Robin Anne Ettles

PEI-based author and multidisciplinary artist Robin Anne Ettles released her second short story collection, this is all we know, in October.

The book is a self-published work through FriesenPress, a Canadian publishing company based in Manitoba. Copy editing took place closer to home with PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis. The new collection offers a version of the Canadian landscape against which eccentric tales and colourful characters evoke ever-shifting perspective on what we see and who we are.

Ettles’s first book won the Rubery Book Award Short Story Prize in 2020 and provided a base of learning and encouragement from which to create a second.

this is all we know is available online, ahead of its spring 2025 launch, via rae-creative.org with a pay-as-you-can via artist-direct ordering option, or through the FriesenPress website. It

will also be available on mainstream platforms.

There will be a parallel launch campaign on Ettles’s Instagram documenting the book having fun and “launching” in various places over the next year.

Isle of the Dawning Sun

Karen MacLeod-Wilkie

Karen MacLeod-Wilkie is launching her sixth book and a new series: Isle of the Dawning Sun, the first installment of Sapphire’s Guardian Adventures.

Moratovia is a devastated country where people survive on a gray mash called Susta, and the Gray permeates every aspect of life. Years ago, a remnant of the people, led by Myrtle, fled and built a life of colour and beauty on the Isle of the Dawning Sun. But now the Gray is spreading, and Myrtle fears for her people and her world. She turns to ancient Guardian legends and calls to the stars for help. Will her call be answered? Can the Gray be overcome?

The book launch is on November 3 from 2–4 pm at 1561 Route 225, North Wiltshire. All of Karen’s books will be available for purchase (cash

or e-transfer). There will be cake, tea, coffee and punch. Karen will also have a table at the 10th Annual Holiday Maker Market, November 30–December 1, at Charlottetown’s Eastlink Centre.

As They Are

Adam Florian

As They Are is a graphic memoir by Adam Florian, recounting Adam’s experiences with Crohn’s disease and the trials he and his wife had gone through with infertility.

Deirdre Kessler, former Poet Laureate of Prince Edward Island and author of the recent novel, Darwin’s Hornpipe, says “Adam Florian’s graphic memoir is a brilliant work, from the first ominous drawing of the exterior of a hospital’s emergency room to the last scene of its unexpected (and welcome) happy ending. Prepare to be spellbound by Adam’s story.” Florian was a recipient of a PEI Artist Grant for this project through Innovation PEI.

As They Are is available locally in Charlottetown at Bookmark and Back Alley Music, and online at Amazon.

COMMUNITY #1

Intermediate Skills Competition

Skills Canada PEI is seeking entries for its first ever Intermediate Skills Competition, taking place from 9 am–1 pm on November 9 at Holland College Prince of Wales campus, in celebration of National Skilled Trades & Technology Week. The competition is open to the public and will include interactive try-atrade booths. The registration deadline is November 1. Visit skillscanada.pe.ca to register.

Remembrance Day at Kings Playhouse

A Remembrance Day ceremony will take place at Kings Playhouse on November 11 at 10:45 am. A light lunch will follow. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown.

White poppy campaign

The Island Peace Committee’s white poppy campaign begins in November with the distribution of white poppies to the public. The Committee wants to broaden the Remembrance Day focus to include civilians, who make up 90 per cent of conflict victims in today’s warfare. Peace activists urge the government to promote and fund effective non-military means of dispute resolution. White poppies are available by calling 902-3687337 or visiting the VRC at 81 Prince St, Charlottetown.

Seniors Cafés

Seniors Cafés take place at the Charlottetown and Summerside libraries. The next Seniors Café at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) is on November 8 at 11 am, where seniors can join guest speaker Carolyn Mackie from Elderdog and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. The next Seniors Café at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) is on November 21 at 1 pm. The PEI Emergency Measures Organization will provide essential tips and strategies for handling hurricanes, floods, and power outages. No registration is needed; drop-ins are welcome.

PEI Genealogical Society meeting

The PEI Genealogical Society will hold a meeting at 2 pm on November 23 at North Tryon Presbyterian. A short demonstration on how to use islandnewspapers.ca will be followed by an open table discussion on genealogy research topics such as new breakthroughs in family trees, questions for other researchers, and suggestions for new resources. The meeting offers an opportunity to pool collective knowledge for those who want to become better family historians. All are welcome. 21592 Trans Canada Hwy, North Tryon. Info: peigs_queries@outlook.com

PEI Military Family Resource Centre funding

The RBC Foundation recently donated $25,000 to the PEI Military Family Resource Centre (PEI MFRC). The donation coincided with the sixth annual Military Family Appreciation Day, which takes place on the third Friday in September. PEI MFRC helps to support Islanders facing emergency situations who are family members of those in the military or are veterans. The Centre offers counselling resources, provides social opportunities for military children, and assists families facing mental health crises, relationship challenges, and occupational stress. Those in need of assistance can call 902-892-8999, email info@ pei-mfrc.org, visit cfmws.com/pei, or stop by in person at 3 Lower Malpeque Rd, Charlottetown.

2025 Heritage Awards

The PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation’s 2025 Heritage Awards nominations are open for submissions until November 29. These awards are given annually to individuals or groups in recognition of their work in sharing and preserving heritage on PEI. For details and to submit a nomination, call 902-368-6600 or visit peimuseum.ca.

Coats for Kids campaign

Downtown Charlottetown Inc., in partnership with The Salvation Army, Sterns Launderers & Drycleaners, and the Confederation Court Mall, has launched the annual Coats for Kids campaign to provide essential winter clothing to families in need across the Island. The Salvation Army (158 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown) will host a free shop from November 4–7, open daily from 10 am–12 pm and 1–3 pm, where families can select from a variety of clean, donated winter coats, snowsuits, hats, and mittens. Info: 902-892-2281

Teen advisory group

Teens aged 13–18 can join the Summerside Library’s Teen Advisory Group on Mondays at 4 pm. Meetings begin with an opportunity for teens to share their voices and opinions, followed by helping staff with various tasks. The group also offers a way for teens to earn volunteer hours toward the Community Service Bursary. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Health PEI Patient Navigator

A Health PEI Patient Navigator will be at the Charlottetown Library from 2–3:30 pm on November 28. Patient Navigators can help people access health care services and supports throughout PEI. These sessions are designed to educate and inform the public on the resources available to them. Register in advance. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Atlantic Slam Basketball

The 2024 Atlantic Slam NCAA Division Women’s Basketball tournament will take place at the Eastlink Centre in Charlottetown November 22–24. The tournament will showcase three teams playing three games over the course of three days. 46 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown. eastlinkcentrepei.com

Cornwall Run Club

The Cornwall Run Club holds a social run every Wednesday at 6 pm, covering approximately five kilometres. Runners of all skill levels are welcome. The run starts and ends at Village Green Brewery (30 Church St, at the old post office/ dental clinic in Cornwall). Follow @ Cornwall Run Club on FB for updates.

Senior’s Navigator

The Seniors Navigator will be at the Charlottetown Library for drop-in assistance on November 6 and 20 from 9:30 am–3:30 pm. The Seniors Navigator helps seniors access programs and services from community organizations and municipal, provincial, and federal governments more efficiently. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Reconnections Program

Women’s Network PEI is launching a free new program this fall called Reconnections. The goal is to create an intergenerational space where women and non-binary Islanders can build meaningful connections in a warm, supportive environment. The monthly meetups will include food and activities chosen by the participants. One group will meet in North Milton, and another in Lower Montague, on Monday evenings. Women aged 18 and older can register at wnpei.org/en/reconnections-signup.

Parks and Recreation programming

The City of Charlottetown’s Parks and Recreation fall and winter program brochure is now available for residents. The brochure lists programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department and by not-for-profit organizations throughout the city. The wide range of activities offers something for everyone, from preschool children to seniors. Limited printed copies are available at City Hall and the West Royalty Community Centre. Visit charlottetown.ca to view an e-edition of the brochure. Info: 902-368-1025

Unity of Humanity Festival

The Baha’i Community of PEI is hosting the Unity of Humanity Festival from November 2–3 in Charlottetown. Two themes will be celebrated: “Our Inherent Oneness” on November 2 at 3 pm at the Baha’i Centre (20 Lapthorn Ave), featuring performances, artworks, light refreshments, and food bank donations; and “Our Joyful Diversity” on November 3 at 3 pm at the Farm Centre (420 University Ave), with a multicultural showcase and potluck supper. All are welcome. Info: 902-626-7419

Christmas Festival

Six-week event in Charlottetown—Nov 22 to Jan 2

The Charlottetown Christmas Festival, presented by Discover Charlottetown, is a holiday tradition running throughout the capital city from November 22 to January 2.

In partnership with the City of Charlottetown, this six-week event features festive programming, including Breakfasts with Santa, the Charlottetown Christmas Parade, live music, Yuletide Walking Tours, horse and wagon rides, Christmas craft fairs, children’s entertainment, and a Whoville-inspired Christmas Village.

The festival’s signature event, the Victorian Christmas Market, takes place on Queen Street in downtown Charlottetown from November 29 to December 1. This 10th annual openair market, reminiscent of European Christmas markets, offers over 50 vendors, fire pits with cozy seating, live outdoor music, carolling, visits with Santa, and much more.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market will be transformed into a holiday destination with over 40 Christmas trees, nutcrackers, and twinkling lights. Their “Deck the Hall” series runs each weekend from December 6–22, featuring fire pits for gathering, ice sculpting, visits with Santa, outdoor cinema nights, a Night Market, and more. Founders’ will also host Capital City New Year on December 31, offering free, family-friendly activities, including face painting, ice carving displays, live performances by The Last Forevers–a pop icon tribute band (think Tina Turner, Fleetwood Mac, Sabrina Carpenter, and more)—and a fireworks display at 7 pm.

The Mistletoe Market, a boutique pop-up market in Boulder Park, is running each weekend from November 22–December 22.

For more information visit charlottetownchristmasfestival.com

Senior Islander Awards

Five recipients honoured for 2024

Five Island seniors were honoured with the Senior Islander of the Year Award for the positive impact they have made to their communities. These awards recognize the efforts that seniors have made in areas like volunteering, artistic achievement, fundraising, sports, recreation, and business.

The 2024 Seniors Islander of the

Year Award recipients are: Bernadette McDearmid Pedersen of Tignish; Helen Lockerby of Brudenell; Bryson Guptill of Charlottetown; Ernie Stavert of Cornwall; and Marion Trowbridge of Bridgetown.

For more information, visit Senior Islander of the Year Awards at princeedwardisland.ca.

The PEI Advisory Council on the Status of Women is hosting a pinning bee to prepare ribbons and bookmarks for its Purple Ribbon Campaign Against Violence Against Women. The 2024–25 theme emphasizes community responsibility: Communities can end gender-based violence: awareness, advocacy, and action

Purple ribbons are worn in honour and remembrance of the 14 women murdered in Montreal in 1989, and the 10 women murdered in PEI since 1989 by someone they knew. Purple ribbons are also worn as a call for justice for the thousands of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in Canada. Volunteers cut and pin

thousands of ribbons to information cards for distribution across the Island.

The pinning bee will take place from 6:30–8 pm on November 6 at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre, 97 Queen Street. Everyone is welcome to join for all or part of the evening—enjoy coffee, tea, snacks, and good conversation.

For more information, contact Michelle at info@peistatusofwomen.ca. peistatusofwomen.ca

JENNA RACHELLE

Charlottetown Christmas Festival 2022

(L–R): Ernie Stavert, Bryson Guptill, Marion Trowbridge, Bernadette McDearmid Pedersen, Minister of Social Development and Seniors Barb Ramsay, and Chair of the Seniors’ Secretariat Audrey Morris. Missing: Helen Lockerby

COMMUNITY #2

Community Exchange

A Community Exchange will be held on November 23 from 10 am–2 pm at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St). This swap will include a variety of gently used items, such as clothing, books, craft supplies, and toys, as well as a mending corner. Contact Wild Child or PEITN for drop-off details; do not drop items off at the library.

Tenant rights and responsibilities

Renting PEI will present “Let’s Talk About Renting” in the Rotary Auditorium at the Charlottetown Library on November 27 at 6:30 pm. Tenant rights and responsibilities will be discussed. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Divorce Recovery Workshop

A 10-week divorce recovery workshop with divorce coach Michelle Beaman will be offered at Charlottetown Rural High School on November 5 and in Summerside at Three Oaks Senior High School on November 6. The workshops run from 6–9 pm and are designed for those seeking healing and support during and after divorce. For more information, email michellebeamandivorcecoach.com.

Government & Politics in Canada and the U.S.

Retired M.P. Shawn Murphy is leading a six-week course on the development, current structure, and workings of the Canadian and U.S. governments. Lectures, discussions, and guest speakers will cover topics such as political parties, public policy, and the role of the public service. Upcoming sessions are from 6–8 pm on November 5 and 12. Registration is required. Open to teens and adults. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Kensington Parent Pod

A new and free parent pod will be held Saturday mornings until November 23 in Kensington at the Murray Centre attached to Kensington United. Play group, support circle and discussions on mental health topics will be from 9:30–11:30 am for parents of children under four. Snacks and refreshments provided. Drop ins welcome though pre-registration is preferred if possible. For more information and to register, contact Rebecca at lovethatbabybump@ gmail.com or Nicole at 506-261-1033. 17 School St, Kensington.

Haviland 50/50 fundraiser

The Haviland Club is selling tickets for the Friends of Farringford 50/50 Draw. Tickets can be purchased from Susan MacDonald at 2 Haviland St, Charlottetown. The draw date is November 8. havilandclub.com

Chief’s Haunted Barn

Presented by Abegweit First Nations, the Chief’s Haunted Barn in Scotchfort continues until October 31. The Barn is open nightly from 6–8 pm, with extended hours on Friday and Saturday until 10 pm. Admission is free with a non-perishable food item for the local food bank.

31 Kitpu St, Scotchfort. Info: @Abegweit First Nation; abegweit.ca/events

NDP Meet & Greet

NDP Cardigan Riding will hold a Meet and Greet with their Federal candidate, Lynne Thiele, on November 24 at 2 pm. Ms Thiele was nominated in September

at a meeting in Montague. With an election to occur within the next year Ms. Thiele’s campaign team is building momentum. New members are welcome. 1257 Donaldson Rd, Tracadie.

Homeschooler Hour

Homeschool families can enjoy a variety of activities at Homeschooler Hour at 2 pm on November 5 at the Summerside Library. This month’s activities focus on exploring the library. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Island Build Awards Gala

The Island Build Awards Gala takes place at the New London Carriage House on November 1 from 6–9 pm. Visit chba-pei. ca for tickets, details and more. 10686 Rte 6, New London.

Free children’s programming

Ongoing programs for babies, toddlers and young children continues at the Summerside Library in November, with Wiggle Giggle Read at 9:30 am on Wednesdays, Toddler Time at 9:30 am on Thursdays, and Saturday Storytime at 9:30 am. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Senior tech help

Seniors can register for one-on-one tech help at the Summerside Library on Tuesday evenings at 4 pm. This program will begin November 5 and run weekly for six weeks. Call 902-436-7323 to register. 57 Central St, Summerside.

EAL conversation circles

The Immigrant & Refugee Services Association PEI hosts EAL conversation circles for adults on Mondays and Tuesdays at 6 pm at the Summerside Library, and on Thursdays at 6:30 pm and Saturdays at 10 am at the Charlottetown Library. Adults interested in practicing their English language skills are encouraged to join for some informal conversation. No registration is required.

Resources for Veterans

Canadian Veterans and their family members, friends, and community members who recognize the need for professional resources can receive help from the Royal Canadian Legion PEI Command. Reach out by phone (902-8922161) or email (royalcanadianlegion@pei. aibn.com) and ask to be referred to the Chairman of Veterans Services.

Tech help

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

PEI Autistic Adults

PEI Autistic Adults is an online and in-person peer-support group for autistic adults and seniors on PEI to talk about autism, share experiences of navigating PEI as autistic adults, and support each other. The website, peiautisticadults. com, has a public blog where members can share their views, a private discussion forum, private chat functionality, and links to their social media. There are meetings every Saturday via Zoom. PEI Autistic Adults was started by an autistic senior and currently has over 100 members ranging from students to seniors. Those who wish to participate in the meetings but who do not wish to interact online can email peiautisticadults@gmail. com. PEI Autistic Adults is not affiliated with any organization

PEI Rainbow Youth Club

Members and allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community looking for new friends and fun times can join the PEI Rainbow Youth Club at the Summerside Library. Open to youth aged 12–18, the Club offers opportunities for youth-led discussions, engaging activities, and creative self-discovery. Led by trained PEERS Alliance staff and volunteers, meetings include a healthy snack. Participants will not be asked to identify and all are welcome to attend. The next meetings are November 5 and 19 at 6 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

A.A. Secular 12-Step Group

The A.A. Secular 12-Step Group practices a secular approach to recovery from alcoholism. The goal is to encourage recovery by providing a forum where members can freely express themselves as agnostic, atheist, or free-thinking, with no requirement to disclose any religious affiliation. The group meets weekly on Thursdays at 6:30 pm at the Beaconsfield Carriage House, 2 Kent St, Charlottetown.

The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson

Chestnut fatigue

A high wind came up after dark, and the long night was spent listening to hundred-year-old horse chestnut trees gleefully hailing down their spikycoated fruits on the shed roof. In the morning I raked up a wheelbarrow full of nuts and casings, knowing that this chestnut storm would last for days.

The horse chestnut, aesculus hippocastanum, is a flowering hardwood in the same family as maples. It was brought to the New World in the 1700s as an ornamental tree, and I wonder why people thought this was a good idea. Obviously the hardy immigrants who brought the first saplings did not have horse chestnuts in their own yards.

Squirrels and chipmunks adore the shiny brown nuts; in spring the tall blossom “panicles” attract bees from the entire Cove; and the soft smooth wood is good for carving. Also, horse chestnuts can apparently be made into potions for such old-fashioned ailments as haemorrhoids and varicose veins. I just wish that I personally knew what to do with them.

One idea from some possibly unreliable website suggests using horse chestnuts to make soap: “Grate 12 conkers [the shiny nuts] and soak in 2 cups warm water. Squeeze out the water through cheesecloth and press the pulp into a mold. Save the water for laundry soap.”

Okay, I thought, that’s a little vague but worth trying. I gathered a handful of nuts, smashed them with a hammer and peeled off the brown skin—not a simple matter. But I was outside, and entertained by geese overhead honking and possibly burping on their way to the Cove after feasting at a harvested cornfield that’s had a 1950s-style brushcut…

In the kitchen I chopped the pale flesh (color and texture of parsnips) as finely as possible, and tossed them optimistically into a pot of warm water.

After a couple hours I didn’t think anything had happened (what could happen?) so I put the pot on the stove and heated it up. Got out the trusty hand blender and turned the whole thing into mash. Strained the mixture through cheesecloth, kept the liquid aside, and pressed the solid matter into a little tub that once held delicious Comeau Lobster Spread.

While I’m doing this I’m fondly remembering the sweet “castanea sativa” chestnuts that littered the roadsides in Italy before they were gathered and roasted to aromatic perfection in drums over fires at outdoor autumn festivals...

Now several hours later, I can report that the solid matter is firm enough to turn it out onto a plate… it kind of looks like hand soap… but will it start to mould in a few days? I have also added some horse chestnut liquid to hot water in the dishpan and it’s really foaming up!… but does it cut grease? It seems to… Mind you, I’m only using a dozen chestnuts…

Goodness, enough with the chestnuts! it’s night-time already. Where did the day go? With shortening hours of sunlight my Scandinavian hermit instincts are really kicking in. Thank heavens for anything that nudges a body off the couch in the evening but doesn’t require distant travel. Tonight is choir practice at the school. Perfect.

“...BUT IT TAKES A HORSE CHESNUT TO FETCH THE GORGEOUS BIG HORSE-LAUGH.” —Mark Twain

Upper Room Angels

Annual fundraiser now underway

The URHM Upper Room Angels, founded in 1989 as a financial support group, is the main fundraiser for the Upper Room Hospitality Ministry’s (URHM) Food Bank and Soup Kitchen. These services recently relocated to 15 Plywood Place in the renovated Chandler Building in Charlottetown.

The group primarily raises funds through an annual membership fee of $52—one dollar for each week of the year. Since its founding, the Angels have contributed over $2.6 million.

The Angels’ 36th annual fundraiser is now underway, with a goal of raising $75,000.

To become an Upper Room Angel, send a cheque or money order for $52 to: Upper Room Angels, c/o URHM Food Bank, 15 Plywood Place, Charlottetown, PE C1A 5H2.

For online donations, visit urhm. org and go to the Be an Angel tab, then Canada Helps, then Donate Now, and select Fund #2 Upper Room Angels.

Official tax receipts are provided.

Email nancy.barrett@pei.sympatico. ca or urhm.pei@outlook.com for more information.

Day of the Dead

Mexican holiday celebrated at Island Hill Farm—Nov 2

Island Hill Farm, in collaboration with Los Nopales, will host its second annual Day of the Dead celebration on November 2 from 5–9 pm.

Honouring the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos, a Mexican holiday that celebrates and remembers loved ones who have passed away, the Day of the Dead blends Indigenous customs with Spanish influences, creating a colourful and heartfelt celebration. Families create altars (ofrendas) adorned with photographs, mementos, and favourite foods of the deceased, inviting their spirits to join in the festivities. It is a time of remembrance, joy, and reflection, marked by vibrant decorations, sugar skulls, and marigold flowers.

Island Hill Farm (351 Rte 225, Hampshire) offers a charming backdrop where families can enjoy the countryside and interact with the farm animals. There will be authentic Mexican food, drinks, and desserts, along with face painting in Day of the Dead designs, live music, and local vendors. Children’s activities will run from 5–7 pm, followed by an open mic until 9 pm.

For tickets, visit islandhillfarm.ca/ dayofthedead.html.

The Nature of PEI

by Gary Schneider

Protecting plantings

It is great to see so many communities and watershed organizations actively involved in tree planting. Especially since the devastating effects brought about by post-tropical storm Fiona, we desperately need to be planting more trees. As I’ve mentioned many times over the years in these columns, it is not about numbers—it is all about planting the right trees in the right places.

While it is important to choose the right species, select well-rooted, healthy plants, and make sure the necessary nutrients and water are available, there is another step that is often overlooked. I’ve been called to countless schools, community parks, and private properties to provide some insight as to why the trees are doing poorly.

Often these are larger trees that the owner has invested significant time and money to install, hoping to gain many years of pleasure from having a lovely tree around. If there is no visible damage, I’ll often just dig the tree up and point out the poor roots, the too small hole, or the terrible soil. All of these conditions are much too common.

But the main reason for trees not doing well—and one that we can safeguard against—is damage from lawn mowers and whipper snippers.

Understandably, if you’re planting hundreds or even dozens of hardwood seedlings, it is difficult and expensive to protect them all, especially if it is from rodents. In these cases, we’ll often choose which trees to protect with some kind of fencing or tree wrap, and we protect the trees that are most susceptible to being chewed upon. Yellow birch and sugar maple are especially attractive to mice and snowshoe hares. And red oak seemed to be regularly chewed off, though since it will come back from the dormant buds under the bark, that is less of a problem.

But the bigger trees really are a challenge. No one can really afford to plant a $200–$1000 tree and have it banged into by landscapers, or even worse, by a car or truck. Every time you create an opening in a tree—a wound of any kind—you set the table for pathogens and fungi to enter the

NATURE

Call for submissions

Submissions for Turning the Tide: Island Imaginaries and Interdisciplinaries in Climate Change will be accepted until October 31. The third international conference on small island states and subnational island jurisdictions will be hosted in June 2025 on the UPEI campus in Charlottetown and at the Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation in St. Peter’s Bay. Turning the Tide 2025 is an interdisciplinary conference that is open to everyone. It is a way to share stories, thoughts, and knowledge about climate change in the context of the lived experience of islandness. Consider how to highlight Canada’s smallest subnational island jurisdiction across the world next June, and send the abstract submission to projects.upei.ca/ unescochair/turningthetide2025

Island Trails AGM

SUBMITTED

tree. Any pruning cut—even one that is perfectly done—creates the same problem, which is why you should always have a good reason to prune a tree. And there are many, for sure. But done well, those cuts are as small and smooth as possible, and at the correct angle and position.

A gash created by a lawn mower, whipper snipper, or a vehicle is none of those things. Too often it is wide and jagged. And the bark is loose, which can prevent the tree’s woundwood (think “scar tissue”) from closing the wound.

My advice to those who love trees, and who want to see them around for a long time, is to think carefully about what kind of protection you will use before you plant them. If we’re planting at a school or a park, we try to make sure that the maintenance people understand that their job isn’t just to cut the grass as quickly as possible. It also involves making sure you don’t damage the tree you are cutting around. Some kind of collar is often all that is needed to keep small machines away from the base of the tree.

For more vulnerable trees, it means a combination of a collar plus serious protection. The picture is from Amsterdam, showing how they almost dare you to run into their trees! That’s how highly they are valued.

Island Trails will hold their annual general meeting on November 6 from 6–8 pm at the Wilmot Community Centre. The meeting will discuss the organization’s progress, future plans, and how the public can support the growing trail community. There will be two guest speakers: Matt MacNeill, adaptation coordinator and climate action secretariat, will present on the Climate Hazard and Risk Information System (CHRIS); and Ruth Delong, trails community relations coordinator, will provide updates on trail development and the status of ongoing projects. All are welcome to attend. 110 Gillespie Ave, Summerside. Info: info@ islandtrails.ca

INT Impact Report

Marking its 45th anniversary, Island Nature Trust (INT) celebrated a year of conservation successes with the release of its 2023–24 Impact Report. INT’s efforts have led to significant milestones such as: protecting 1405 new acres of natural areas; enhancing species conservation; engaging the community through public events and volunteer programs; and forging innovative partnerships with other conservation organizations like Korotu Technologies to monitor habitat resilience following Hurricane Fiona. Visit islandnaturetrust.ca/impact for the full report.

Proper protection of trees in Amsterdam, Netherlands

INFO & LECTURES

Local Energy Efficiency Partnerships info session

The Canadian Home Builders Association PEI is offering a Local Energy Efficiency Partnerships (LEEP) Building Envelopes information session on October 31 from 8:30–11:30 am at the PEI Farm Centre. Learn about industry best practices and new products for energy efficient homes, with a focus on building envelopes. The session is geared toward builders, designers, installers, advisors, inspectors, architects, examiners, trades, suppliers, energy utilities, and government officials in the building sector. Free for members. 420 University Ave, Charlottetown. Info: chba-pei.ca

Mikinduri Children of Hope Lunch & Learn

Mikinduri Children of Hope (MCOH) is holding two fundraisers this month to help support their projects in Kenya. The first is a Lunch and Learn session hosted by the PEI Chapter of Engineers Without Borders on November 2. Along with a presentation on the impact of MCOH’s work in Kenya, the event, which begins at 12 noon in Room 128 at UPEI’s Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering building, includes a hearty vegetable stew with rolls and dessert. The second fundraiser, a ceilidh hosted by Boomer Gallant with music by We3, Sylvia Abikhattar-Mutch, and Kelly Mooney, will take place at Jack Blanchard Hall in Charlottetown on November 16 at 7 pm. A light lunch will be served and tickets will be available at the door. MCOH has been helping to feed and educate children in Kenya for 20 years. Based in PEI, this small non-profit supports school feeding programs, improves water access, builds classrooms, and provides assistance with school fees. Its partner organization in Kenya, Beyond Limitations, works with families to enhance health, sanitation, and community development. An agricultural expert offers hands-on education

to diversify gardens and improve nutrition. In 2023, the community on Mageta Island opened a library with donations from MCOH. Before this, the population of 11,000 had no access to books, not even in schools. Today, the well-used center offers everything from picture books for toddlers to study materials for adult health care volunteers. Info/ donate: mikinduri.com

Homelessness and Food Insecurity presentation

The Institute of Island Studies at UPEI is hosting the Harry Baglole Memorial Public Symposium in Island Studies on November 7. The presentation, “Homelessness and Food Insecurity on Canada’s Food Island,” will begin at 6 pm in the Mackinnon Auditorium at UPEI’s Don and Marion McDougall Hall. Seating is limited. To attend, RSVP by email to iis@upei.ca. 550 Univeristy Ave, Charlottetown.

A History of Heritage Preservation presentation

Area resident Andrea Battison will deliver an illustrated presentation entitled “A History of Heritage Preservation in the 500 Lot Area: Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going” at 7 pm on November 9 at Beaconsfield Carriage House. An opportunity for open discussion will follow. All are welcome to attend. Doors open at 6:30 pm. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown.

CLI presentation about wills

Community Legal Information (CLI) recently launched a new presentation series about wills. Island residents with questions about creating their will or serving as an executor can attend a free presentation at 1 pm on November 14 at the PEI Farm Centre. 420 University Ave, Charlottetown. Info: legalinfopei.ca

Island Lecture Series

Hosted by the Institute of Island Studies at UPEI, the next presention in the Island Lecture Series, “Water sustainability on PEI: environmental flows research on groundwater abstraction,” will take place on November 19 at 7 pm in the faculty lounge of UPEI’s Main Building. The event is free, and all are welcome to attend. 550 Univeristy Ave, Charlottetown.

Old Age Security Pension info session

Service Canada is offering a free information session at the Charlottetown Library on November 20 at 10:30 am. Angie McCarthy from Service Canada will discuss Old Age Pension Security and answer questions. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Talking from Experiences by

Ashleigh Tremere

Stories to tell

Wild Threads Literary Festival... literary festival?

Sounds like a lot of beanies and cardigans—oh, but it was so much more! This was the fifth year of the four-day festival, celebrating all that the written and spoken word bring to our lives—which, if you think about it, is a whole heck of a lot.

Literary works don’t just lend themselves to the creation of books. TV shows, plays, comedy, and music all start with someone jotting an idea down somewhere, then taking the time to expand it into the entertainment we consume daily. It might be the only form of consumption I can really get behind.

The PEI Writers Guild coordinates this event and has been expanding it each year, offering a really great variety of experiences. There were workshops, feasts, interviews, comedy, and music.

I had to miss the welcome ceremony at the Salvador Dalí Café, which I would have enjoyed for my own nerdy networking purposes—maybe you would have, too. So, the first place I found myself was at a workshop offered by author Trevor Corkum. It was a twohour interactive session, held in scenic Victoria at the schoolhouse. It was advertised as his signature workshop and I can confidently recommend it.

Everyone really does have a story to tell, but how do you make it interesting to hear? Well, go to one of Trevor’s workshops and find out, I say. I went in with half an idea of something to write about and came away with the realization that there was a lot more to the story than I had considered. Through his creative engagement and prompts, paired with a quick, well-natured pace, he kept a full room of diverse individuals fully absorbed in the task of writing.

The Guild hosted a hilarious evening of comedy with both local and international comedians. There were great laughs, few groaners, and an all-female lineup. What’s not to love?

Acorn Publishing offered a free professional development panel with a Q&A at the learning library in Charlottetown, which was enlightening. We have a real variety of aspiring authors on this island, and I think

GAMES

Charlottetown Scrabble Club

The Charlottetown Scrabble Club meets on Tuesdays from 5–8 pm at the Charlottetown Library. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Tips and cheat sheets are offered. Participants should bring a Scrabble set if they have one, paper, and a pencil for scorekeeping. Admission is free. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Charlottetown Chess Club

The Charlottetown Chess Club meets on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm in the downstairs Members Room at the Benevolent Irish Society. All levels and ages are welcome to attend. Info: fredmckim@gmail.com

Intergenerational board games

Bring the whole family to the Charlottetown Library on November 3 from 2–3 pm for some board game fun for all ages. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

the Summerside Library for an evening of board game fun on November 25 at 6:30 pm. Bring a board game or use one of the library’s. 57 Central St, Summerside.

InclusiCon

A free, family friendly gaming convention will take place on November 30 from 10 am–4 pm at the Charlottetown Library. There will be tabletop roleplaying games, a board game cafe, and workshops. For more information, to register for a game, or for volunteer opportunities, visit peersalliance.ca. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Eptek scavenger hunt

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

all in attendance appreciated the opportunity.

I think my favourite part of the weekend’s programming was held at Harmony House in Hunter River. The aptly named Interwoven Voices was— let me check my notes—intensely powerful, genuinely moving, and a beautiful unfiltered look at process. The emotional range I felt during that show is still giving me shivers. The good, tingly kind. The extremely amusing Evelyn Bradley sat as host and questioner to Carlie Howell, Alicia Toner, Joce Reyome, and Brielle Ansems, whom I’m now kind of in love with. The talent of these artists is unquestioned; they are some of our best. However, getting to hear more about the people behind the music and their process was really thought-provoking and surprising in many ways. I really hope this becomes a staple of the festival going forward.

Cartoon mini putt

Kids aged 6–12 can play a round of mini putt on a cartoon-themed course at the Summerside Library on November 7, 8, and 9, from 11 am–4 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Crokinole

Socialize and play a game of crokinole at the Summerside Library on November 13 and 27 at 2 pm. 57 Central St, Summerside.

Speedcubing

This competitive sport challenges participants to solve a 3x3x3 Rubik’s Cube as quickly as possible. Competitors of all ages can bring their own cube, test their skills, and face off against others. The next event is at 1 pm on November 22 at the Summerside Library (57 Central St).

Board Game Café

Celebrate national game and puzzle week by bringing family and friends to

SALES

Indoor Yard Sale

The Charlottetown Pickleball Club is hosting an indoor yard sale at the Sherwood Community Centre on November 9 from 12 noon–5 pm. There will be furniture, small appliances, sports equipment, dishes, jewelry, clothing, books, and more. Funds raised will go toward the venue and other operational costs. 56 Maple Ave, Charlottetown.

Gifts from the Heart

Gifts from the Heart holds a sale on the last Saturday of each month, giving the public a chance to thrift its inventory. The next sale is on November 30 from 10 am–3 pm, with proceeds supporting operating costs. Led by Betty BeggBrooks and volunteers, the organization provides free food, clothing, furniture, and housewares to low-income families and those facing temporary hardship across PEI. 10 Maple Hills Ave, Charlottetown.

ISSUE# 371 • NOVEMBER 2024

buzzpei.com @buzzpei

Editor: Yanik Richards

Editor: Michelle Ollerhead

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Contributors: Milton Acorn, Mike Bernard, Julie Bull, June Ellis, Dennis Ellsworth, Sean McQuaid, Takako Morita, JoDee Samuelson, Tara Reeves, Gary Schneider, Bren Simmers, Ashleigh Tremere

Office: 160 Richmond Street, Charlottetown

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

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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:

Fall Leaves (detail), oil on canvas, 11”x14” by June Ellis.

June Ellis has been creating original seascape and landscape paintings for over 23 years, inspired by growing up on the family farm and the beautiful scenery on Prince Edward Island. Her favourite medium is working in oil, and she also enjoys acrylic and pastels. Now retired, June can be found most days painting in her art room. She also gives art classes and paint nights. See more of June’s work at her current solo exhibition at the MacNaught History Centre and Archives in Summerside, at juneellis.com, or on Instagram @ juneellisart.

FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Christmas

Open House

Island Girl Studio is hosting a Christmas Open House, offering the public an opportunity to browse original Christmas paintings and cards by watercolour artist and storyteller Donna White. There will be a gift basket raffle and hot apple cider. All are welcome to attend. Open November 1 from 3–7 pm, November 2 from 10 am–7 pm, and November 3 from 1–7 pm at 65 Anderson Rd, St. Peters. Info: 902-940-3547; FB @watercoloursbydonna; IG @dmwhite775

Festive Wreath Contest & Exhibition

The annual Festive Wreath Contest and Exhibition returns this holiday season at Confederation Centre of the Arts. All are welcome to participate—adults, youth, businesses, and groups. Themes include: children’s solo; children’s group; traditional; Dunes “off the wall;” green living (recycled materials); and adult group/business. Participants can create a wreath and drop it off at the Centre on November 16 or 17 from 1–3 pm. There is a small entry fee and there are prizes to be won. Wreaths will be displayed until mid-December. This is a project of the Friends of Confederation Centre. Info: confederationcentre.com; friends@ confederationcentre.com

Holiday Village craft

Create a Scandinavian-inspired holiday village at the festive crafting and social hour at the Summerside Library. Sessions take place on November 18 at 6:30 pm and November 20 at 2 pm. Register for this program by calling the library at 902436-7323. 57 Central St, Summerside.

St. Peter’s Christmas bake sale

The Women of St. Peter’s Cathedral are holding their annual Christmas bake sale at the Confederation Court Mall on November 21 from 8:30 am until goods are sold out. There will be selection of sweets, savouries, breads, pies, cakes, cookies, jams, pickles, and more. 134 Kent St, Charlottetown.

St. Mark’s Christmas bake sale

A Christmas bake sale will be held from 9 am–12 noon on November 23 at St. Mark’s Presbyterian. There will be baked goods, preserves, fudge, and other treats. 7 Tamarac Ave, Charlottetown.

QEH Yuletide Gala

The QEH Yuletide Gala and Auction at Delta Hotels by Marriott Prince Edward

takes place on November 23 at 6 pm. The event aims to support the health of Islanders by raising funds for equipment needed in the QEH Endoscopy Unit. Ticketholders can bid on items donated to the auction, which will occur during the in-person event. 18 Queen St, Charlottetown. Info/tickets: 902-8942425; qehyuletide.ca

Charlottetown Tree Lighting

The City of Charlottetown will present its official tree lighting ceremony at 6:30 pm on November 29. Full details will be available at charlottetown.ca/ holidayactivities.

Christmas House Tour in support of Meals on Wheels

A Christmas House Tour in support of Kensington Meals on Wheels will run on November 29 from 6–9 pm and November 30 from 1–4 pm. The house tour locations are 155 Kelvin Rd (Barb & Don Moase) and 3362 Grahams Rd (Bertha & Vernon Campbell). Tickets are available for purchase from Mary Brennan (902-432-2478) or at the door.

Charlottetown Christmas Parade entries

The City of Charlottetown’s annual Christmas Parade takes place on November 30 at 5 pm. Organizers are seeking float entries to be a part of this holiday tradition. Visit charlottetown.ca

or contact Jenna Doucette at 902-6285809 or jedoucette@charlottetown.ca to register.

Holiday home decorating contest

Charlottetown residents are invited to participate in the City’s holiday home decorating contest this season. They are encouraged to share the magical spirit with neighbours and family by decorating the exterior of their homes. The registration deadline is December 2, and judging will take place during the week of December 9. Info/register: 902-6285809; jedoucette@charlottetown.ca

Christmas House Tour

A Christmas House Tour will be held on December 7 from 2–5 pm in Charlottetown. The locations of the house tour will be provided at the time of purchase. Tickets go on sale November 7 and can be purchased on weekdays from 9–11 am via phone at 902-894-5234 or in person at the Central Christian office, 192 Hillsborough St., Charlottetown.

DECEMBER BUZZ DEADLINE

Friday, November 15

per heat pump per unit

coffees and tasty lunches await you at Confederation Court Mall

www.confedcourtmall.com

Tzu-Cheng Wang, Music PEI Week 2024 (photo: Mike Bernard Photography)

Storm’s A’Brewin’

Feast Dinner Theatres production—Nov 17 to Dec 21

Storm’s A’Brewin’—A Boyle Family Brewery Story, the new production by Feast Dinner Theatres, will be performed at Rodd Charlottetown and Summerside’s Brothers 2 Restaurant on select dates from November 17–December 21.

The holiday show is a Christmas party full of festive fun and stormy surprises, with lively music and an old-fashioned Christmas buffet. Visit feastdinnertheatres.com to reserve tickets. Group rates are available, email info@feastdinnertheatres. com or phone 902-436-7674.

THEATRE

HA Club Improv Comedy

HA Club Comedy’s long-form improv classes in performance run from 6–7:30 pm on Tuesdays until December 3 at the Haviland Club in Charlottetown. Laurie Murphy and guest instructors teach about creating the environment through activity, the relationship between characters, and the crux of the scene—also known as the ABCs. Classes are for people aged 17+ and no experience is necessary. Info: marram.ca or call/text 902-960-1735

Theatrical reading

A theatrical reading of Elmsdale, a new play by Charlottetown playwright Kris Williams, will be performed at 7:30 pm on November 8 and 9 at The Guild in Charlottetown. The play pulls the audience inside a neglected farmhouse in West Prince where they watch a fractured family try to reconcile with their own deceit, selfishness, and jealousy. It is a story about the lengths people will go to protect their family’s legacy and way of life, even if protecting it requires violence and a shallow grave. Seating is limited. Tickets: theguildpei.com

Watermark gives to AFC

Watermark Theatre raised $1488 for the AFC (formerly the Actors’ Fund of Canada). Generous donations were made by audience members at the performances of Misery on August 30 and Same Time, Next Year on August 31. Cast, crew, and administrators also contributed. The AFC provides compassionate, confidential support to help Canadian entertainment professionals maintain their health, dignity, and ability to work. It reflects the community’s goodwill, offering assistance when professionals face vulnerability due to injury, illness, or personal hardship. To donate, visit afchelps.ca.

Yuk Yuk’s in November

Three shows at Scott MacAulay Centre in November

Yuk Yuk’s, presented by Loudmouth Productions, continues its lineup of stand-up comedy performances at Summerside’s Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre this month with Jen Grant on November 7, Ron Josol on November 14, and Peter White on November 21.

Jen Grant is a stand-up comedian known for her clean, observational storytelling. She has performed at Just for Laughs, as well as the Halifax and Winnipeg Comedy Festivals. Grant was the first Canadian to reach the finals of the prestigious Boston Comedy Competition and was listed as one of the top five funniest people in Toronto by Toronto Life magazine.

Ron Josol, a multi-talented FilipinoCanadian comedian, has entertained

audiences globally for over 25 years. His TV appearances include Comedy Now in Canada, two specials for Showtime Arabia, a Showtime special in the US, Gotham Comedy Live on AXS TV, Comics Unleashed, Last Call with Carson Daly on NBC, and the Kevin Hart LOL Show.

Peter White is a clean, clever comedian and a writer for This Hour Has 22 Minutes and That’s So Weird on YTV. He has appeared with Pierce Brosnan in a television mini-series and has written and performed on CBC Radio One and XM Satellite Radio. His writing has been nominated for a Canadian Comedy Award and a Writers Guild of Canada Award.

Showtime is 7:30 pm. collegeofpiping.com

Odd and Unusual PEI

Storyteller Reg “Dutch” Thompson will present Odd and Unusual PEI at Kings Playhouse on November 15.

Dutch is one of the Island’s best-known researchers in folklore and oral history, largely thanks to his popular, long-running CBC Radio show, The Bygone Days.

Attendees can expect stories about bears and deer on PEI, a visit from the Queen Mum, an Islander in The Great Escape, Canada’s first female lighthouse keeper, the wreck of the Marco Polo, two sailors in the Georgetown Jail, the winter the railway’s coal vanished, rum-running and cod liver oil, the 1929 earthquake in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and more.

Admission is free, with no advance tickets required. Doors open at 6 pm, with showtime at 7 pm. Kings Playhouse is located at 65 Grafton Street, Georgetown.

Dutch Thompson regales at Kings Playhouse—Nov

Dutch Thompson

(L–R): Comedians Jen Grant, Ron Josol and Peter White

From November 7–10, River Clyde Arts presents One for All, a festival of solo performances written and performed by women, at The Mill in New Glasgow.

PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis will perform Seeker, a new work in progress that offers a candid and comedic commentary on the many ways individuals seek, the realities they find, and the truths they miss along the way.

Jane Wells’ new show, How to Live with Dread, grapples with the death of her brother, shining a gentle light on grief and one’s identity within, and after, loss.

Tannis Kowalchuk, a Pennsylvania theatre artist and organic farmer,

protest, refusing to come in from the fields until he agrees to try farming regeneratively. This performance will take place on November 10 at 2:30 pm, followed by a community conversation about regenerative farming practices with Dale and Tannis. All other performances are at 7:30 pm.

On Sunday morning, November 10, Tannis will lead a free performance workshop for community members from 10:30 am–12:30 pm, teaching from her experience in song and performance creation (registration required).

One for All will be held in the Loft at the Mill in New Glasgow, with evening shows preceded by a prix fixe meal in the dining room. Chef Emily Wells’ festival menu will

(L–R from top): Dale Colleen Hamilton, Tanya Davis, Tannis Kowalchuk, Jane Wells.

Photo by Dylan Evans

Trailside Christmas

With Patrick Ledwell and Mark Haines—Dec 5 to 8

Christmas is a chance to enjoy everything, all at the same time—shopping malls and manger scenes, the loudest racket and the most silent of nights. With their show, Trailside Christmas, Mark Haines and Patrick Ledwell pack up the many joys of the season, all in one hilarious evening. From Decmeber 5–8, the pair will deliver a high-spirited sleigh ride through Christmas tradtions at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown.

With the long-running Island Summer Review, Haines and Ledwell earned a reputation for blending homegrown comedy with tunes that move both feet and heartstrings. The duo is looking forward to bringing this energy to their holiday-themed review, full of funny recollections, melodies, and mishaps.

“I am just hopping with yuletide anticipation,” says Mark Haines. “I will be tuning the festive fiddle for some great Christmas classics. Bring your best singing voices and oh yeah …. you might want to pack your bathrobe.”

“We’re already hard at work on holiday surprises,” comments Ledwell. “I’ve been in touch with lounge singer Terry Velour, by calling his number at the back of the Sears Wishbook. He’s booked to be there.”

Group bookings for dinner and shows are available for celebrating the season with family, friends, and coworkers. Tickets can be purchased online at trailside.ca or in person or by phone (902-367-3311) at Back Alley Music in Charlottetown.

Review by Sean McQuaid

Step in the name of love

One Step at a Time – a Father’s Journey Watermark Theatre, North Rustico October 3, 2024

I was literally sick and tired when I shambled into the Watermark Theatre that night. A stubborn respiratory infection had been smacking me around for weeks, so I’d become an oxygen-starved, oft-coughing wreck. But there was theatre to be seen, so I’d sallied forth.

The show was the touring oneman production One Step at a Time – a Father’s Journey. I was groggy, trying to keep my distance from folks in case I was contagious, masked up to protect others and to reduce the risk of me picking up any additional viruses, sucking cough drops in hopes of not becoming a distraction. Long story short, I was tense.

So it’s a good thing this show about a family raising a disabled son—not necessarily a sunshine-and-rainbows premise—turned out to be so engaging and funny and surprisingly joyous. I was awake and entertained and my cough drops mostly kept me from spoiling it for everybody else.

Written, composed and performed by professional dancer, singer and actor Andrew Prashad, OSTFJ is the story of how Andrew, his wife and their young daughters have raised Andrew’s son Ezra, born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Those conditions have complicated and endangered Ezra’s health, impaired his mobility and required a great deal of specialized care, much of it delivered by the Prashad family themselves.

Since his wife Beth is a schoolteacher, Andrew is Ezra’s primary caregiver—which makes it challenging when Andrew’s show business career occasionally entails long-distance travel for gigs. One of the show’s recurring threads is this dilemma, Andrew balancing his passion for his art against his love for his son and for the rest of his family, finding ways to serve all three of these priorities with the help of Beth, daughters Nyasha & Sophia and others.

That might sound dull or bleak or both, and parts of the show can be downright harrowing when Andrew relives medical emergencies, crises of faith and more; but the Prashad family work hard to infuse joy into Ezra’s life and each other’s lives wherever they can, so there’s always moments of happiness and hope peppering this show amidst all the angst.

Andrew’s a strong enough writer and actor that this could probably be a solid one-man show—smart and funny and moving—even if it were just

engaging and funny and surprisingly joyous

monologues; but he’s a triple threat, so he levels it all up by singing original music and dancing his heart out, showing off the percussively nimble virtuosity of his tapdancing skills in particular.

The multimedia show also includes assorted audio and video clips, adding some extra layers to the tale and giving Andrew a few moments of much-needed respite between bursts of emotionally and physically intense song-and-dance sequences. He and director/dramaturge Scott Hurst and musical director Jeannie Wyse make it all flow smoothly, and the hour glides by despite the oft-heavy subject matter.

Touring assorted Canadian venues since 2018, OSTFJ is an inspirational story—it feels a tad corny and trite typing that, but it’s true. Hearing and seeing how this extraordinary family built a rich, full life for a kid with so many challenges is legitimately uplifting stuff.

A moment near the end of the show sums up that sensation for me, a video clip in which Ezra, with some support, dances with his father for a few moments. Watching that small, quiet moment of gleeful triumph, this tired old reviewer broke into a big, goofy grin under his mask. Best medicine I had all day.

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre—Nov 1 to 3

Seaside Theatre Company presents Dear Jack, Dear Louise by Ken Ludwig at the Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside on November 1, 2, and 3.

Loosely based on his parents’ wartime letters, playwright Ken Ludwig creates a funny but deeply touching story. Jack, an army doctor, and Louise, an aspiring actor, are two young people who find humour and love through letters. Although set during World War II, Ludwig has crafted a story that resonates today.

collegeofpiping.com

Patrick Ledwell (left) and Mark Haines

Pagan North

Desert Island Theatre Company will return to The Guild in Charlottetown on November 23 for a live reading of a brand-new play: Pagan North by PEI playwright Benton Hartley.

Inspired by Hartley’s family history, Pagan North tells the story of Hudson Heaven, an Anglican priest who comes to own the Island of Lundy, off the coast of Devon, after the death of his father. As he plans to build a church on the Island, he comes into conflict with the local population, who have their own ideas about how Rev. Heaven should spend his inheritance. As Heaven and the community begin to get to know each other better, secrets come to light, true motivations are revealed, and the fate of the souls of everyone on Lundy hangs in the balance.

Performing in the reading is an all-Island company of Kassinda Bulger, Benton Hartley, Jacob Hemphill, John

The Weir

ACT play staged at various venues in November

ACT (A Community Theatre) is bringing The Weir by Irish playwright Conor McPherson to Island venues throughout the month of November.

The Weir spans a single night in a bar near Carrick-on-Shannon in Leitrim, the most rural county in the Republic of Ireland. Set in the 1990s, the play is a modern story but also reaches far enough back in time to feature the telling of ghost stories and supernatural occurrences as an everyday part of life.

PEI playwright Benton Hartley

MacCormac, Melissa Mullen, Rebecca Parent, and Graham Putnam, with dramaturgy by Lindsay Kyte.

Doors open at 7 pm, with the reading at 7:30 pm. Admission is by donation. Seating is first come, first served.

Old-Fashioned Christmas Buffet! Enjoy roast turkey, ham, all the

salads, and a delicious dessert. Plus, an incredible show with lively music—sure to be the most fun you’ll have all year!

The Weir will be on stage at Watermark Theatre in North Rustico, with performances on November 7–9 and 13–15. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

On November 16, The Weir will be staged at the Irish Cultural Centre in Charlottetown. Doors will open for a luncheon at 6:30 pm, with the play starting at 7:30 pm. This event, presented by the Benevolent Irish Society, will also feature a 50/50 draw. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

On November 22, ACT brings The Weir to The Haviland in Charlottetown. Tickets for this performance are available by texting or calling 902-330-0889 or emailing thehavilandclub@gmail.com.

Reserve tickets at: www.feastdinnertheatres.com Group reservations of 20 plus the Box Office call: 902-436-7674

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

Oct 29 | 7:30 pm

Joel Plasket

Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Oct 29 | 7:30 pm

DeeDee Austin Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Oct 30 | 7:30 pm

Jack Pine Folk Club

Ft. The Devil’s Punchbowl, Ryan Christopher Stanley, John MacKenzie, and host Shane Pendergast. The Pourhouse, Charlottetown

Oct 30 | 8 pm

Static Age

Halloween tribute to The Misfits. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Oct 31 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Macabre for Hallowe’en feat. Dotty Davis Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Nov 1 | 7:30 pm

New Orford String Quartet

UPEI Department of Music recital. Dr. Steel Recital Hall, UPEI, Charlottetown

Nov 1 | 7:30 pm

Charlie A’Court Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Nov 1 | 8 pm

Brothers MacPhee: Nirvana

Unplugged

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 1 | 8 pm, Nov 2 | 2 pm/8 pm

Anne Murray Songbook

Ft. Mike Ross, Ben Kunder, Keelin Wedge, Julain Molnar, Carlie Howell and Garrett Sherwood. Harmony House, Hunter River

Nov 1–3 | 7:30 pm

Dear Jack, Dear Louise Play by Ken Ludwig. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Nov 2 | 7 pm

Winterjazz: Campbell & Johnston

The Pourhouse, Charlottetown

Nov 2 | 7:30 pm

Good Dear Good

The Mack, Charlottetown

Nov 2 | 7:30 pm

Jason Cyrus Live

Hypnotist show. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Nov 2 | 8 pm

Matt Minglewood Band: Thru The Years

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 4 | 8 pm

70’s 80’s Mixtape Night

Craig Fair Music Producitons fundraiser with all proceeds going to PEI Cares. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 6 | 7:30 pm

Kellie Loder

The Mack, Charlottetown

Nov 7| 7:30 pm

Yuk Yuk’s: Jen Grant

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Nov 7 | 7:30 pm

Irish Mythen

With 10-peice string ensemble and special guests Catherine MacLellan and Joce Reyome. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

Nov 7 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Paulina

Hernandez Quartet Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Nov 7 | 8 pm

David Myles: Devil Talking Tour

With special guest Logan Richard. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Nov 7–9, 13–15

ACT: The Weir

Play by Conor McPherson. Watermark Theatre, North Rustico

Nov 7–10

One for All: A Festival of Solo Performances

Ft. Tanya Davis, Jane Wells, Tannis Kowalchuk and Dale Colleen Hamilton. The Mill, New Glasgow

Nov 8 | 7 pm

Tom Green

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Nov 8 | 7:30 pm

UPEI Faculty Recital

UPEI Department of Music recital. Dr. Steel Recital Hall, UPEI, Charlottetown

Nov 8–9 | 7:30 pm

Stairway To Zeppelin

Tribute to Led Zeppelin. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Nov 8–9 | 7 pm

Elmsdale

Theatrical reading of Kris Williams play. The Guild, Charlottetown

Nov 8–9 | 8 pm

Dancing Queen

Tribute to ABBA. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 9 | 7:30 pm

Luminos Ensemble: Grant Us

Peace

St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

Nov 10 | 7 pm

Celebrate Island Women

Presented by Women’s Network PEI ft. Joce

Reyome, Alicia Toner, Brielle Ansems, Keelin Wedge and emcee Irish Mythen. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 12 | 8 pm

Sheila Smith Band

Tribute to Eva Cassidy. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 13 | 8 pm

Craig Fair Productions 2025 Season Launch

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 13 | 8 pm

JJ Wilde: All My Vices Tour

With special guest Fionn. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Nov 14 | 7:30 pm

Yuk Yuk’s: Ron Josol

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Nov 14 | 8 pm

Harry Manx

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 14| 8 pm

Sommo Presents: Valley PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Nov 14 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Reade Guavin Trio

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Nov 15 | 7 pm

Dutch Thompson: Odd and Unusual PEI

Kings Playhouse , Georgetown

Nov 15 | 7:30 pm

Sarah Hagen

Schubert, Shostakovich, & Chaminade: a solo piano recital. St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

Nov 15 | 8 pm

Amanda Jackson with Route 225

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 15, 16, 22, 23 | 8 pm

Nov 16, 23 | 2 pm/8 pm

Behind the Veil: a Lucy Maud Concert Experience

Ft Alicia Toner, Mike Ross, Brielle Ansems, Carlie Howell, Julain Molnar and Garrett

Sherwood. Harmony House, Hunter River

Nov 16 | 1 pm

Autumn to Advent

Cornwall Community Choir. West River United, Cornwall

Nov 16 | 2 pm

PEI Senior Honours Band

Dr. Karem J. Simon directing. UPEI Performing Arts Centre, Charlottetown

Nov 16 | 6:30 pm

ACT: The Weir

Play by Conor McPherson. Irish Cultural Centre, Charlottetown

Nov 16 | 7 pm

Mikinduri Fundraising Ceilidh

Ft Sylvia Mutch, Kelley Mooney, We3 and host Boomer Gallant. Jack Blanchard Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 16 | 7:30 pm

Gregorian: Pure Chants

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

Nov 16 | 7:30 pm

Torch Songs: Songs of Love and Light for Dark Days

Ft The Forgive-me-nots (Rob Drew and Harmony Wagner). Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown

Nov 16 | 8 pm

Shawn Desman

PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Nov 16 | 8 pm

More Soul

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 17 | 8 pm

Lightfoot: The Man & His Music

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

Nov 17–Dec 21 | select dates

Storm’s A’Brewin’—A Boyle

Family Brewery Story

Feast Dinner Theatres. Rodd Charlottetown and Brothers 2, Summerside

Christmas at Harbourfront

Festive season of performances begins in late November

This festive season at Summerside’s Harbourfront Theatre will showcase music, comedy, drama, and family entertainment.

Kicking things off on November 30 at 7:30 pm is Christmas in Cape Breton, a festive celebration filled with beloved characters, laughter, and tunes.

Providing the comedy for the night, comic actor Bette MacDonald (Mr. D) and cast bring beloved characters Mary Morrison, Wayne Tomko, Beulah Claxton, Martin MacKinnon, and Beaver MacLeod to life on stage.

Alongside the comedy, which humorously explores seasonal tribulations, the show brims with musical talent from all five performers: Bette MacDonald, Maynard Morrison, Wendy MacIsaac and Mac Morin of JUNOnominated Beòlach, and ECMA Award-winner Jordan Musycsyn.

Christmas in Cape Breton slides on to the Harbourfront stage on November 30

As Bette says, “The idea of Christmas in Cape Breton is to have as much fun as we possibly can while staying within the confines of the law. We put everything we love about Christmas into this show!”

PEI singer songwriter Lennie Gallant will be joined on stage with a full band, bringing his Christmas Tour 2024 to Harbourfront on December 1, featuring seasonal songs, heart-warming stories, and captivating visuals in a multimedia presentation.

Harbourfront will welcome the local community onto their stage, showcasing some of the Island’s finest talent on December 6 and 7, with Fandango Musical Players’ presentation of Carols at Christmas. Featuring the ever-popular Singing Christmas Tree, the troupe of singers, dancers,

and actors will deliver an evening filled with music, dance, and seasonal storytelling for all ages.

Local theatre company, The Harbourfront Players, returns with their new family drama, An ALLOUT Island Christmas. Written by Karen Slater and Wayne Murphy, and directed by Marlane O’Brien, performances run from December 12–14.

On December 29, Dufflebag Theatre returns with their trademark take on the classic story of Peter Pan.

Harbourfront Theatre is also holding its festive open house event on November 17. Holiday at Harbourfront will feature backstage tours, live music, homemade crafts for sale from local artisan sellers and exclusive ticket deals.

harbourfronttheatre.com

Grant Us Peace

Luminos Ensemble Remembrance Day concert

Luminos Ensemble, PEI’s ECMA-winning professional choir and chamber orchestra, will perform a Remembrance Day concert, Grant Us Peace, focusing on music that highlights the words of people who have served on the front lines of conflict. The performance takes place at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown on November 9 at 7:30 pm.

Taking Crosby, Stills & Nash’s “Find the Cost of Freedom” as its starting point, the Ensemble will give voice to and pay tribute to the experiences of soldiers in both past and modern conflicts. The program will include “In Flanders Fields,” a meditation by the last soldier to leave the battlefield at Gallipoli, and culminate with Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Dona Nobis Pacem.” For this work, the Ensemble will be joined by members of Luminos Chamber Orchestra and soloists Georgia Edwards (soprano) and Gaige Waugh (baritone), under the direction of Artistic Director Dr. Margot Rejskind.

PEI Senior Honours Band

Concert at UPEI Performing arts Centre—Nov 16

The PEI Senior Honours Band provides an enrichment opportunity for senior high school instrumental music students from across PEI. Members are selected based on their playing ability and dedication to their school band programs. After an intensive weekend

Vaughan Williams composed “Dona Nobis Pacem” as storm clouds gathered ahead of the Second World War, drawing on battlefield observations from Walt Whitman, political commentary on the Crimean War, and excerpts from the Book of Revelation, the Requiem Mass, and the Book of Luke. The result is a cantata that remains relevant today—an evocation of the destruction and death caused by war and violence, with an overarching message of peace and reconciliation. Visit luminosensemble.com for tickets.

of rehearsals, they will perform a final concert under the direction of conductor, clarinetist, and educator Dr. Karem J. Simon at 2 pm on November 16 at the UPEI Performing Arts Centre. Dr. Simon served on the UPEI Music Faculty from 1991–2023. Upon retirement, he was awarded the title Emeritus Professor of Music. Before joining UPEI, he taught instrumental music in public schools in Corner Brook, Newfoundland. A passionate and sensitive musician, he inspires performers of diverse backgrounds. His teaching philosophies reflect 42 years of experience.

Admission by donation at the door.

UPEI Department of Music

Music series features New Orford String Quartet

The UPEI Department of Music continues its concert series this month with performances by the prestigious New Orford String Quartet, a faculty recital, and the UPEI Wind Symphony. All concerts begin at 7:30 pm.

On November 1, the New Orford String Quartet will perform on the SDU Stage at Dr. Steel Recital Hall. Comprised of four elite orchestral leaders and soloists—Andrew Wan, Jonathan Crow, Sharon Wei, and Brian Manker—the quartet has been described by the Toronto Star as “nothing short of electrifying.” The program will feature works by W.A. Mozart, Franz Schubert, and the PEI premiere of Métis composer Ian Cusson’s “Yume (Dreams),” inspired by Akira Kurosawa’s film of the same name.

The Department of Music will showcase several of its faculty members in recital on November 8 on the SDU Stage at Dr. Steel Recital Hall. This annual recital, popular among students and the public alike, features a diverse range of instruments and repertoire. The performance includes

Sarah

Hagen

Schubert, Shostakovick and Chaminade

Music by Schubert, Shostakovich and Chaminade will be performed at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown on November 15. The program, played by Island pianist Sarah Hagen, features Schubert’s heartbreakingly beautiful “Sonata in B-flat Major,” a timeless, profound, and transformative work.

Known for her unique, heartfelt interpretations and witty commentary, Hagen tours across Canada and internationally.

The show begins at 7:30 pm and

Stephen Bouey (baritone), Hannah O’Donnell (mezzo-soprano), Morgan Saulnier (flute), Dale Sorensen (trombone), Nicole Strum (saxophone), and Magdalena von Eccher (piano).

On November 28, the UPEI Wind Symphony will present Wind, Sand, and Stars, a program of music inspired by nature. Directed by Dale Sorensen, with guest conductor Nicole Strum, the program will include an arrangement of Bedřich Smetana’s “Vltava (The Moldau),” a symphonic poem depicting Bohemia’s great Vltava River, alongside works by Canadian composers John Herberman (“The Fisher Who Died in His Bed”), Nova Pon (“Tilting Sunward”), Dana Reason (“Currents”), and Barbara York (“River of Stars”). Of special note will be the PEI premiere of “Wind, Sand, and Stars” by Kevin Lau, commissioned in 2024 by a consortium of 25 North American wind ensembles, including the UPEI Wind Symphony. The concert will take place at UPEI’s Performing Arts Centre theatre.

Visit upei.ca/music for tickets.

will run approximately 75 minutes without an intermission.

Admission is pay-what-you-will at the door or by e-transfer to sarah@ sarahhagen.com. sarahhagen.com

DAHLIA KATZ

(L–R): New Oxford Quartet—Brian Manker, Sharon Wei, Andrew Wan and Jonathan Crow

Soloists Gaige Waugh (left) and Georgia Edwards

PEI Symphony Orchestra

Second concert of the season: Influencers—Nov 24

The PEI Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) continues its 2024-25 season on November 24 at Confederation Centre of the Arts with Influencers at 2:30 pm. Attendees are invited to the free, pre-concert talk at 1:30 pm.

This concert highlights how the course of history can often be changed by one good influencer, which is reflected with music by Leonard Bernstein and Florence Price.

Under the baton of Music Director Jaelem Bhate, the PEISO welcomes guest oboist Ari Cohen Mann, who will perform the rarely heard Oboe Concerto by Clémence de Grandval.

“From the moment I heard Ari Cohen Mann play oboe, I knew they were going to be a superstar, and that I wanted to work with them professionally,” says Bhate. “I can’t wait to introduce Ari and the Grandval Oboe Concerto to Island audiences.”

Also on the program is a work by one of classical music’s biggest influencers; the overture to Candide by Leonard Bernstein. His music is described as “jazz meets orchestra meets Broadway and is cool enough for Bradley Cooper to make a movie about him.”

The main feature of the program

African American woman to have an orchestral work played by a major American orchestra. She was a pioneer and a musical genius.

“This concert is for you if you want to hear music that tells stories of resilience and perseverance, with the power to bring about reflection and change,” continues Bhate.

Tickets and subscriptions can be purchased at confederationcentre.com or 902-566-1267. peisymphony.com

Autumn to Advent

Christmas concert at West River United—Nov 16

Autumn to Advent, a Christmas concert by the Cornwall Community Choir, will be held at 1 pm on November 16 at West River United.

The program for the concert features a selection of seasonal choral music performed under the direction of Lisa Stead, with special guest performers adding to the festivities.

The Cornwall Community Choir typically performs for residents of

community care homes, with public concerts held every two years.

Admission is at the door, with no charge for children 12 and under.

Attendees can enter through the church hall entrance at 10 Church Street, Cornwall. Following the concert, the audience is invited to enjoy a light lunch hosted by the choir.

The storm date is November 17.

Info: 902-675-3838

is Symphony No. 1 in E minor by Florence Price, the first

Guest oboist Ari Cohen Mann

ELLIE REDDIN

Cornwall Community Choir

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

…continued from page B6

Nov 20 | 7:30 pm

Jack Pine Folk Club

Ft. The McMillans’ Camp Boys, Steve MacIntyre, Lauren Lafrance, and host Shane Pendergast. The Pourhouse, Charlottetown

Nov 21 | 7:30 pm

Yuk Yuk’s: Peter White

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Nov 21 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Nicola Romera

Dada Quintet

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Nov 21 | 7:30 pm

Christmas with The Ennis Sisters

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

Nov 21–23 | 8 pm

Life in the Fast Lane: A Night of The Eagles

Craig Fair Music production ft. Brad Milligan, Joce Reyome, Alyssa Harper and Craig Fair. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 22

ACT: The Weir

Play by Conor McPherson. Haviland Club, Charlottetown

Nov 22 | 7 pm

Jeanie & Charles album launch

Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown

Nov 22 | 8 pm

Queen Priyanka: The Devastatia Tour

PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

Nov 23

An Evening with Dennis Ellsworth

The Mill, New Glasgow

Nov 23 | 7:30 pm

Pagan North

Live play reading. The Guild, Charlottetown

Nov 24 | 2:30 pm

PEI Symphony Orchestra: Influencers

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

Nov 24 | 8 pm

A Kenny & Dolly Christmas

Ft. Kelly Mooney, Keelin Wedge, Christine Cameron and Roland Beaulieu. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 24 | 1 pm , Nov 28 | 7 pm

Elf: The Musical

Revolution Dance Studio. Florence

Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 24–25

Home For The Holidays: A Nightingale Christmas

Ft. Christina Johnston and Pablo Diemecke. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Nov 26 | 7:30 pm

Winter Wonder

Holland College Community Band. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 27 | 7:30 pm

The Great Canadian Roadtrip:

Doc Walker, Michelle Wright & Jason McCoy

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Nov 27 | 8 pm

Dave Gunning & J.P. Cormier

Christmas

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 28 | 7:30 pm

Side Hustle

Improv comedy. The Guild, Charlottetown

Nov 28 | 7:30 pm

UPEI Wind Symphony: Wind, Sand and Stars

UPEI Department of Music concert. UPEI Performing Arts Centre, Charlottetown

Nov 28 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Ken Fornetran’s Forgalhorn

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Nov 28 | 8 pm

Kelley Mooney & Route 225

Tribute to Bonnie Raitt. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Nov 29 | 7:30 pm

A Tribute to Taylor Swift

Ft. Katy Ellis. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Nov 29 | 7:30 pm

The Grand Tour

Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

Nov 29 | 2:30 pm

PEI Symphony Orchestra: Influencers

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

Nov 29 | 7:30 pm

Aaron Goodvin

With special guests Basil Bauer and Justin Fancy. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

Nov 29 | 8 pm

Celtic Christmas: The Salt Water Dollies

With guest Kelley Mooney. Red Shores Charlottetown

Nov 29–30 | 8 pm

Live! with Logan Richard

With musical guests Terra Spencer and Dennis Ellsworth (Nov 29) and Craig Fair, Tamara Steele and Collin Buchanan (30). Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Nov 30 | 7 pm

Lucy Blu & The Diamond Groove

With Mike & Ava Gallacher. The Seashell Cafe, Travellers Rest

Nov 30 | 7:30 pm

Poet of the Common Man

Tribute to Merle Haggard ft. Lawrence Maxwell. Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

Nov 30 | 7:30 pm

Charlottetown Improvisation Laboratory

Ft Adam Hill, Roy Johnstone, Caedda Enright, Luisa Güiza, and Matt Bridges. City Cinema, Charlottetown

Nov 30 | 8 pm

Popalopalots

Improv comedy. The Guild, Charlottetown

Nov 30 | 7:30 pm

Christmas In Cape Breton

Ft. Bette MacDonald and Maynard Morrison, Wendy MacIsaac, MacMorin and Jordan Musycsyn. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Nov 30 | 8 pm

Paper Soul

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 1 | 2 pm

The Island Jubilee Old Time Music Radio Show

Third season premiere. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 1 | 7 pm

Brass the Halls

The Great George Street Brass Band. Zion Presbyterian, Charlottetown

Dec 1 | 7 pm

Island Christmas Traditions

Ft. Kendall Docherty & Friends. St. Mark’s, Charlottetown

Dec 1 | 7:30 pm

Lennie Gallant Christmas Tour 2024

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Dec 3 | 7:30 pm

UPEI Jazz and Popular Music Ensembles

UPEI Performing Arts Centre, Charlottetown

Dec 5 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Holland College SOPA Showcase

Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

Dec 5–6 | 8 pm

A Creature is Stirring: A Christm-ish Comedy

Ft. Justin Shaw. The Mack, Charlottetown

Dec 5–7 | 8 pm

Harmony House Holiday Kitchen Party

Ft Alicia Toner, Mike Ross, Brielle Ansems, Trevor Grant, Carlie Howell and Joce Reyome. Harmony House, Hunter River

Dec 5–8 | 8 pm

Ledwell & Haines: A Trailside Christmas

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 6 | 7 pm

Dave Gunning & J.P. Cormier

The Fiddling Fisher Lookout, Souris

Dec 6 | 7 pm , Dec 7 | 1 pm

Elf: The Musical Revolution Dance Studio. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown

Dec 6–7 | 7:30 pm

Fandango’s Carols at Christmas

With The Singing Christmas Tree. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

LIVE @ the Centre

Irish Mythen, Kellie Loder, The Ennis Sisters and more

The LIVE @ the Centre 2024–25 season continues this month with performances by Atlantic Canadian musicians.

On November 2, Halifax pop-rock quartet Good Dear Good will perform at The Mack. Fresh off wins at the East Coast Music Awards and Music Nova Scotia Awards for their debut EP, the group delivers an endearingly infectious positivity on stage. However, a closer listen reveals deeper themes of resilience, perseverance, and love.

Newfoundlander Kellie Loder will bring songwriting prowess and a distinctive blend of folk, Americana, and indie pop to The Mack on November 6. Their lyrical brilliance is honest and vulnerable in ways that make the music feel deeply personal, inspiring profound emotion among audiences with their heartfelt songs, playful charm, and live show.

Charlottetown singer-songwriter Irish Mythen returns to the Centre on November 7 with a completely

reimagined show. Backed by a 10-piece ensemble, hear Mythen’s folk/roots music in a brand-new sonic landscape at the Sobey Family Theatre. Their live performances are a thing of raw power, emotion, and connection with the audience. Special guests Joce Reyome and Catherine MacLellan will join Mythen on stage.

Holiday programming at the Centre kicks off on November 21 with The Ennis Sisters at the Sobey Family Theatre. For over 25 years, Maureen, Karen, and Teresa Ennis have been captivating audiences with their harmonies and humour. With a mix of original songs, holiday classics, humorous recitations, and a little Irish step-dancing, this show is sure to ignite the holiday spirit.

More holiday programming will take place in December, including performances from The Irish Descendants, Confederation Centre Choirs, and Lennie Gallant. confederationcentre.com

Gunning & Cormier Christmas

Special concert at Trailside Music Hall—Nov 27

Dave Gunning and J.P. Cormier will perform a special Christmas concert at Trailside Music Hall on November 27. Showtime is 8 pm.

Two of the busiest solo musicians in the country, these multiaward-winning artists are joining forces to deliver a one-of-a-kind holiday concert. Featuring a mix of new songs, old classics, and fan favourites, the show promises to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Visit trailside.ca for tickets.

Dave Gunning (left) and J.P. Cormier

SUBMITTED

The Ennis Sisters get the holiday programming started on November 21

Live! With Logan

Late-night-TV-style shows at Harmony House—Nov 29 & 30

After a successful first season, Live! With Logan returns this month for two nights only at Harmony House in Hunter River.

With the house band and special guests, Live! With Logan delivers a night of late-night-TV-style antics. Richard will interview guests, play games, and invite them to share songs and stories.

The second season will feature special musical guests Terra Spencer and Dennis Ellsworth on November 29, followed by Craig Fair, Tamara Steele, and Colin Buchanan on November 30.

Showtime is 8 pm. For details and tickets, visit harmonyhousepei.com.

Charlottetown Improv Lab

New compositions with room for interpretation—Nov 30

What happens when a Celtic fiddler, a jazz harpist, a classical bassist, a rock drummer, and a Latin singer are asked to develop a common musical language on stage together? The results will be revealed at the Charlottetown Improvisation Laboratory in a live concert performance at City Cinema on November 30 at 7:30 pm.

The Charlottetown Improvisation Laboratory will feature bassist Adam Hill leading an ensemble of five musicians in an exploration of improvisational music that crosses genres and styles. The group includes Roy Johnstone on fiddle, Caedda Enright on harp, Luisa Güiza on vocals, and

Winterjazz

On November 2, Christine Campbell and Blake Johnston will open the 2024–25 season of the award-winning Winterjazz concert series at the Pourhouse. Showtime is 7–9:30 pm.

Matt Bridges on drums. The program will feature five new compositions alongside a few not-so-standards. For this event, each member of the band has composed a brand-new piece of music based on the concept of “structured improvisation.” The tunes are written with some elements of notation, but each one includes plenty of room for interpretation and risk-taking. The composers will take turns directing the musical conversation, while everyone on stage and in the audience gets to participate in the dialogue.

Advance tickets are available online at citycinema.ca, with pricing options for adults and students/artists.

Campbell & Johnston deliver a blend of vintage blues-rock, roots, and folk with a modern twist. Known for seamless guitar solos, lead vocals, and harmonies, their performances create both exhilarating energy and intimate connection. Their debut album won the 2022 East Coast Music Award for Best Blues Album and earned a Maple Blues nomination. Their music has featured on Canadian TV shows Hudson & Rex and Sullivan’s Crossing, and they’ve shared stages with Steve Earle, Burton Cummings, and Bob Seger. Their 2024 album, Paisley Hearts, captures their vintage vibe and has received extensive airplay in Canada, the UK, and the US.

Anchoring the Winterjazz concert series for season 17 are house band members Deryl Gallant, Glen Strickey,

Ian Toms, and Max Gallant. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Admission is cash-only, with a portion of the proceeds supporting an annual scholarship for Island students entering a jazz program. Reservations are strongly recommended—call The Old Triangle at 902-892-5200. Follow @winterjazz on FB for updates.

NATHANIEL COLE

Christine Campbell and Blake Johnston

PHOTOS

(L–R): Adam Hill, Luisa Güiza, Roy Johnstone and Caedda Enright. (missing: Matt Bridges)

SUBMITTED

Logan Richard

Torch Songs

Songs for Love and Light for Dark Days—Nov 16

The Forgive-me-nots will present Torch Songs: Songs of Love and Light for Dark Days on November 16 at the Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown.

ECMA-nominated guitar virtuoso Rob Drew and vocalist Harmony Wagner will offer an evening of uplifting, transcendent jazz standards to help attendees through this dark month.

The performance will interweave the backstories of triumph over trouble behind the composers and singers who made these songs timeless classics.

While the term “torch song” was originally associated with unrequited or lost love, this selection, curated from the American Songbook, aims to brighten dark days and highlight the beauty and strength of love.

Tickets are cash only at the door

and include a choice of beer, wine, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Doors open at 7 pm, and the show starts at 7:30 pm.

The Carriage House is wheelchair accessible.

Info: @The Forgive-me-nots on FB

Celebrate Island Women

Women’s Network PEI hosts fundraiser—Nov 10

As part of its 40th anniversary, Women’s Network PEI (WNPEI) is hosting Celebrate Island Women, a fundraising event at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on November 10 from 6–9 pm. Irish Mythen will emcee the evening, with performances by Alicia Toner, Joce Reyome, Brielle Ansems, and Keelin Wedge.

This event aims to raise crucial funds to support WNPEI’s nonprofit work empowering women and gender-diverse individuals in the

community. All proceeds will benefit WNPEI project participants, advancing the Network’s vision of an Island free from oppression and ensuring equitable access to essential resources.

Visit trailside.ca or wnpei.org for tickets and more information.

Gerdan

Ukrainian folk singing group at Florence Simmons

Gerdan: Never Mind The Night Tour is coming to Florence Simmons Performance Hall on December 7. Showtime is 7 pm.

Gerdan is a 16-member folk singing group from Chernivtsi, Ukraine and their arrangements of traditional folk songs are reinvigorating authentic Ukrainian music.

There is a primal vibration in the ancient songs from villages across Ukraine. On this Canadian tour, Gerdan will astound audiences with their energy and soulfulness, as well as their passion for a culture that has for too long been under threat.

This tour is also helping to support families in Ukraine affected by the war that will need support and rehabilitation in the months and years to come.

Harmony Wagner and Rob Drew

SUBMITTED

Irish Mythen will be emcee for the evening

Lucy Blu

An evening of original music at Seashell Café—Nov 30

BluRobinMusic and The Seashell Café present an evening of music featuring Lucy Blu & The Diamond Groove, with opening act Mike and Ava Gallacher, on November 30 from 7–9 pm. Lucy Blu has shared the stage with Alfie Zappacosta, David Gogo, Karen Lee Batten, and Alice Francis, to name a few. In 2018, CBC Radio picked up her original song, “You’ve Got To Give Your Love To Me,” as a lead-in to CBC’s Searchlight. Lucy will be backed by her band, featuring Christopher James on guitar and Steve Guy on saxophone.

Ava Gallacher is the winner of the 2024 PEI youth talent search competition and has been steadily building her repertoire of original compositions. Her father, Mike, will join her on guitar.

Doors open at 6:30 pm. Housebaked sweets, tea, coffee, and non-alcoholic drinks will be available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Seashell Cafe or reserved by calling 902-724-2119.

The Cafe is located at 26152 Rte. 2, Summerside.

Christmas Tour 2024

Lennie

Gallant show stops in Summerside and Charlottetown

PEI singer-songwriter Lennie Gallant’s 15-date Christmas Tour 2024 will feature two performances on the Island next month—at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on December 1 and at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown on December 21.

This holiday favourite is filled with original seasonal songs, heart-warming stories, and captivating visuals in a multimedia presentation. The show will also feature new arrangements of traditional Christmas classics, along with several songs from Gallant’s upcoming

Irish Descendants Christmas

Newfoundland folk group at Sobey Family Theatre—Dec 7

The Irish Descendants Christmas 2024 tour is making a stop at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown on December 7.

Newfoundland folk group, The Irish Descendants, features Con O’Brien on lead vocals and guitar, Rowan Sherlock on mandolin, fiddle, piano, and vocals, Jeff Kinsman on bass and vocals, and Madeline Carter on fiddle and vocals. They will be joined by the founding members of Rum Ragged: Mark Manning on vocals and guitar, and Aaron Collis on accordion and vocals.

Now in its 15th year, The Irish Descendants Christmas evokes the

spirit of traditional Newfoundland and Labrador seasonal celebrations.

The show will feature songs from their two Christmas albums—The Gift (2001) and An Irish Descendants Christmas (2023)—along with some festive favourites.

The Irish Descendants were the first band from Newfoundland and Labrador to sign a five-album deal with Warner Music Canada. Their discography includes 14 studio albums, with two certified Canadian Gold Albums, a JUNO Award, and three East Coast Music Awards. confederationcentre.com

Jack Pine Folk Club

Folk music and poetry at the Pourhouse

Take a step back in time and enjoy some folk music and poetry at the Jack Pine Folk Club, from 7:30–9:45 pm, at the Pourhouse in Charlottetown.

album, set for release in 2025.

Gallant has performed this ever-evolving Christmas show across Atlantic Canada to sold-out crowds for several years, and this year’s multimedia version promises to be the best yet. Joining him on tour are his partner, well-known Acadian musician Patricia Richard, her son Julien Robichaud—a piano marvel—and New Brunswickbased Acadian violinist/fiddler MarieAndrée Gaudet.

Showtime is 7:30 pm.

Visit lenniegallant.com for tickets.

On October 30, host Shane Pendergast will welcome PEI’s gothic folk band, The Devil’s Punchbowl, as well as songwriter Ryan Christopher Stanley and poet John MacKenzie. With songs of monsters and vagabonds, The Devil’s Punchbowl promises to bring the spirit of Halloween to the Jack Pine stage.

On November 20, Pendergast will welcome fan-favorite oldtime group The McMillans’ Camp Boys. Hailing from Cape Breton, singer-songwriter Steve MacIntyre will also perform a set of music. Rounding off the night, poet Lauren Lafrance will read some selections.

Admission is at the door.

Con O’Brien (left) and Rowan Sherlock

Old-time group The McMillans’ Camp Boys will be featured on November 20

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Lucy Blu & The Diamond Groove (above) and Mike & Ava Gallacher

Live at Trailside

A selection of upcoming music shows in November

Guitarist, pianist, singer, and songwriter Matt Minglewood crafts an inspired blend of country, blues, folk, roots, and rock. Both on record and on stage, he keeps the music thriving.

creating musical short stories that wed the tradition of the Blues with the depth of classical Indian ragas. Playing the Mohan Veena (a 20-stringed sitar/ guitar hybrid), lap steel, harmonica, stomp box, and banjo, he has created a unique sound that is hard to forget.

Manx is a prolific artist, with eleven albums and counting. He has received seven Maple Blues Awards and his mantel shelf also holds honours from the Canadian Folk Music Awards, Vancouver magazine Georgia Straight, and the South Australia Blues Society. He received CBC Radio’s Great Canadian Blues Awards for 2007 and his albums have garnered five JUNO nominations.

225, the result is a diverse night of music, spanning everything from soul, blues, and funk to 80s rock.

More Soul November 16

More Soul will fill the dance floor with old-school soul and funk all night long. Playing hits from James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Sam & Dave, Charles Bradley, Otis Redding, and many more.

Island Jubilee

Third season premiere at Florence Simmons—Dec 1

The Island Jubilee Old Time Music Radio Show will premiere its third season at Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown on December 1, with a 2 pm showtime.

The Island Jubilee is a Grand Ole Opry-style radio show. The performance is recorded in front of a live studio audience and broadcast on Tantramar 107.9 FM (CFTA).

Following the premiere, the Island Jubilee will present the Hank Williams Tribute Show, with performances on December 28 at 7:30 pm at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside, and on December 29 at 2 pm at Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown.

To purchase tickets, call 1-888-3119090 or visit islandjubilee.com.

“Mysticssippi” Bluesman Harry Manx has been called an “essential link”

Amanda Jackson is one of PEI’s most in-demand singers and performers. When paired with a band like Route

November 30

After a 25-year hiatus, PEI band Paper Soul returns to revisit original material from their self-titled 1998 album, along with classics from the bands that inspired them. Attendees can expect some groove-based jams and a lively dance floor.

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

Anne Murray Songbook

Harmony House—Nov 1 & 2

The final three performances of Anne Murray Songbook at Harmony House in Hunter River are on November 1 at 8 pm, and November 2 at 2 pm and 8 pm. Mike Ross and local PEI artists— Ben Kunder, Keelin Wedge, Julain Molnar, Carlie Howell, and Garrett Sherwood—interpret the music of Canadian icon Anne Murray.

A singer of pop, country, and adult contemporary music, Murray has sold more than 55 million albums worldwide. Her songs comfort, inspire, and celebrate important milestones.

The Lounge is open for food and drinks before the show. To reserve, call 902-964-2255. For tickets, visit harmonyhousepei.com.

“Mysticssippi” Bluesman Harry Manx

PEI RECORDINGS

Richard Wood Live! An Evening of Celtic Music

Richard Wood

PEI fiddler Richard Wood has released his tenth album (and first live album), Richard Wood Live! An Evening of Celtic Music, via Symphonic Music. It is available now at rwood.ca and on all streaming platforms.

The album was recorded live at the last show of a record-breaking 15th season of Richard Wood’s Evening of Celtic Music series, presented annually at the Sterling Women’s Institute Hall in Stanley Bridge, PEI. From the lively, heart-pounding jigs, reels, and strathspeys to the energy Wood creates during his live performances, and poignant pieces rich in emotion, the listening audience is taken through a taste of what it feels like to be part of his live audience, whose clapping and reactions become part of the overall experience.

ALBUMS SINGLES

released in May. The 10-song collection was written by Jeanie Campbell and Charles Reid. Special guest bassist Mike Johnston played on three tracks. Gordon Belsher of Guernsey Cove Parlour Productions produced, recorded, and engineered the release, with artwork by Charlene Belsher. Tickets to the album launch are available at j_c2018@yahoo.com or EventBrite. Follow Jeanie & Charles on their socials for updates and more.

“Feels This Way”

Logan Richard

The album features Richard Wood on fiddle, Brent Chaisson on guitar and percussion, Kimberley Holmes on keyboard, and Skip Holmes on guitar and bouzouki. Brent Chaisson recorded, engineered, and mastered the album live at Studio Dimanche, with cover and graphic design by Faye Wood.

Heart’s in Pieces

Jeanie & Charles

Jeanie & Charles will celebrate the launch of their newest album, Heart’s in Pieces, on November 22 at the Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown at 7 pm.

The album takes a mature look at good love, bad love, and no love; the environment; and even favored places. It is the second release for the Cornwall-based duo this year, following Cream to My Coffee, which was

PEI indie-pop musician Logan Richard dropped his newest single, “Feels This Way,” on October 3.

Something wild happens in the body when a new partner gives the tour of where they come from—an excited, elated anxiousness, kind of like a fuzzy coming alive of one’s nerve endings. With the warm and wiry groove of “Feels This Way,” Richard taps into that feeling. Over a catchy guitar line, he sings about taking off to meet his lover’s Francophone mom, fumbling his French, scoping out where she got high for the first time, and getting

nervy when she tells him a friend of hers is going to medical school. The single was written by Richard and longtime collaborator Ben Aiken. New Brunswick songwriter David Myles, for whom Richard frequently plays guitar live, helped with the bridge of the song. The single is Richard’s first with his new label home, Outside Music. Richard will open for Myles at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on November 7.

“Cereal”

Noah Malcolm

Malcolm, a queer music artist and composer from PEI, released his single “Cereal” to radio and all major streaming and download platforms on October 18.

The new single is a delicate indiefolk meditation on its magic and messiness, featuring a tranquil backing of plucked strings, piano, and pads beneath Malcolm’s vocal finesse. When singing “Cereal,” he pictures the mattress on the floor in his first apartment in Charlottetown. Underneath the weight of coursework, part-time jobs, and a fractured family life after coming out of the closet, Malcolm’s safe place was his small bedroom and his partner—his first serious relationship. Eventually, cracks and flaws surfaced. He later wrote “Cereal,” able to look back with gratitude and recognize the challenges of being in love. Contrasting

with other recent releases, this one digs deeper with revealing lyrics and an intimate rendering.

The single was published by CYMBA Music, produced by Noah Malcolm and Jake Charron of The East Pointers, and funded by Music PEI, with cover art by Andrew Lewis Photography.

“Only Drifting By” Shane Pendergast

Shane Pendergast released his single, “Only Drifting By,” on October 25. The track, which features harmony from Emilea May, elaborates on the significant people in one’s life becoming strangers and the complex feelings surrounding that.

Growing up in PEI with folk music in his blood, Pendergast hails from a lineage of storytellers and musicians. Drawing inspiration from the landscapes and lore of his Maritime home, his songs resonate with themes of community, history, and the sea. In 2020, he founded the Jack Pine Folk Club—a monthly gathering inspired by the coffeehouses of the 1960s, featuring a mix of traditional music and poetry. Under his guidance, the Jack Pine stage has become a vibrant hub for folk music, attracting talent from across Canada.

“Only Drifting By” was produced by Logan Richard and recorded by Adam Gallant at The Hill Sound Studio. Pendergast will release a full album, Winter Grace, in January.

Noah

PEI Brewing Company

JJ Wilde: All My Vices tour will be on stage at the PEI Brewing Company on November 13 at 8 pm.

David Myles brings his Devil Talking tour to the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on November 7 at 8 pm. PEI singer-songwriter Logan Richard will open.

Myles is a Canadian singer-songwriter renowned for his captivating blend of folk, jazz, and pop. Weaving tales of love, friendship, and introspection, Myles has garnered acclaim for his dynamic live performances and impressive discography including the albums Into the Sun and Real Love

selling album, five Platinum selling singles, multiple chart-topping radio hits, and a plethora of awards including a JUNO Award for R&B Sound Recording of the Year, three MMVAs, and multiple SOCAN Awards.

Queen Priyanka

A dominant voice in the rock music scene since her debut album Ruthless in 2020, musician JJ Wilde has over 36 million global streams and prominent playlist placements on digital platforms, captivating a diverse international audience.

Sommo presents Valley at 8 pm on November 14 at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown.

Based out of Toronto, the JUNO Award-nominated Canadian indiepop band carves out a distinct musical niche with their eclectic mix of indiepop, synth-pop, and alt-rock influences. Their music resonates globally as a testament to their boundless creativity and unwavering passion for their craft.

International performer and musical artist Queen Priyanka brings her Devastatia Tour to the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on November 22 at 8 pm.

Priyanka soared to superstardom on Canada’s Drag Race. She has since released her debut EP Taste Test, hosted HBO’s We’re Here, and performs to sold out crowds around the globe.

For more info and to purchase tickets, visit peibrewingcompany.com.

PEI CARES

Companion animal fundraiser at Trailside Music Hall—Nov 4

PEI CARES (Companion Animal Rescue Education Society) is hosting its inaugural fundraiser at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on November 4. With entertainment privided by Craig Fair Music Productions, the evening will feature 70s and 80s favourites performed by Craig Fair, Joce Reyome, Alicia Toner, and Brandon Howard Roy. A silent auction and 50/50 draw will also be held.

PEI CARES is a 100 perc ent volunteer-based companion animal welfare and advocacy organization, launched in early 2020. They formally registered as a nonprofit in early 2024. Doors open at 6:30 pm, and showtime is at 8 pm. All proceeds will go directly toward supporting companion animals on PEI. Tickets are available through PEI CARES and at trailside.ca.

Shawn Desman performs live at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on November 16 at 8 pm.

With his signature sound and style, Desman’s accolades include a Platinum

Queen Priyanka performs on November 22

Karla Shallay (left) and Jennifer Gordon

ONGOING MUSIC

ceilidhs, dances, series, sessions...

Assumption Ceilidhs

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

Blues Jam

The Plain Dirty Blues Band plays at Baba’s Lounge on the last Saturday of each month from 5:30–8 pm. Admission is by donation. Upcoming dates are November 30 and December 28. Follow Plain Dirty Blues Band on FB for updates. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Ceilidh in the City

The 14th season of this family-friendly ceilidh series continues on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm until December 4 at the Jack Blanchard Centre. Hosted by Kendall Docherty, Peter Burke, Brian Knox, Brian Langille, and Brian Blacquiere, the ceilidhs feature PEI music and weekly guests. The upcoming lineup includes: Halloween Rock ‘n’ Roll show with Terry Dunsford, Todd MacLean & Mike MacGarry (October 30); A Night to Remember—Veterans Tribute Show with guest Marcella Richard (November 6); Country Legends Show encore with guests Rodney Savidant & George MacPhee (13); Legends of Rock ‘n’ Roll Showcase featuring music of the 50s, 60s, and beyond (20); Island Country Christmas in support of Santa’s Angels with Blake Crockett & Jacinta MacDonald (27); and the season finale, Rockin Around the Christmas Tree in support of Toys for Tots with Niall MacKay, Gary Cudmore, David Altass, Jimi Platts & Heather MacAulay (December 4). The venue is fully accessible with parking, canteen and bar service. Admission is cash only at the door, which opens at 6:30 pm, and free for children 13 and under. For large group reservations or accessibility needs, contact Kendall at 902-569-1133 or peimusicman@gmail.com. 7 Pond St, Charlottetown.

Dunstaffnage Ceilidh

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

Got Blues Matinee

Running from September to June since 2009, Got Blues with Chris Roumbanis and friends Mike Robicheau and Alan Dowling returns for its 15th season this month with weekly Saturday matinees from 2–4 pm at the Salvadore Dali Café. Each week, a special guest joins the first set, followed by an electric blues jam in the second set. There is no cover charge; they pass the hat. The upcoming guest list includes: singer/harmonica player Shrimp Daddy from NS (Nov 2); singer Annette Drapeau Corbett from NS & saxophonist/keyboardist Todd MacLean (9); singer/guitarist Kim Doolittle from NS (16); singer/guitarist Kendra Phan Gale & drummer Warren Beatteay from NB (23); singer Joey Kitson, guitarist Chris Corrigan and the SOPA band with Sean Ferris (30). Follow 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. The upcoming lineup includes: Macabre for Hallowe’en feat Dotty Davis (Oct 31); Paulina Hernandez Quartet (Nov 7); Reade Guavin Trio (14); Nicola Romera Dada Quintet (21); Ken Fornetran’s Forgalhorn (28). Admission is by donation. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

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.

Sturgeon Ceilidh

Entertainers Appreciation Social on November 10; The Christmas Ceildh on December 8 at 6:30 pm. Admission by donation. Everyone is welcome. St. Paul’s Hall, Rt 17a, Sturgeon.

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

Aaron Goodvin

In concert at Sobey Family Theatre—Nov 29

Country music artist Aaron Goodvin is bringing his East Coast tour to Charlottetown. Joined by special guests Basil Bauer and Justin Fancy, Goodvin will take the stage at the Confederation Centre of the Arts on November 29 at 7:30 pm.

Goodvin first made waves with his self-titled debut album, earning critical and commercial success. He quickly caught the attention of fans and industry insiders, leading to a JUNO nomination for Album of the Year and a CCMA Songwriter of the Year win for his sophomore album, V

With two #1 hits and six Top 10s—including the double-platinum international hit “Lonely Drum”—Goodvin has proven his staying power. His relatable songs resonate with audiences of all ages, as evidenced by the success of his third release, the EP Lucky Stars

Beyond his recording career, Goodvin is a sought-after songwriter, penning hits for artists like Luke Bryan, Jon Pardi, and Cole Swindell. His knack for melody and storytelling have led to collaborations with

industry heavyweights. As a performer, he has toured extensively across Canada, the US, and Europe, with a string of sold-out shows during his first headline tour in 2023. Known for his distinctive voice, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious energy, Goodvin is a mainstay in country music. His latest EP is set for release in February 2025.

The Grand Tour

Hits from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s

The Grand Tour—a timeless journey through the heart of classic country music—is coming to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on November 29.

Performing hits from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s, the band features Jamie Matthews front and center on lead vocals, with Louise Arsenault on fiddle, Tanya Bernard on piano, Danny MacNevin on lead guitar, Troy McArthur on steel guitar, banjo, and harmonica, Kurk Bernard on bass, and Wayne Robichaud on drums. With seamless collaboration, the group

recreates the hits of George Jones, Vern Gosdin, Conway Twitty, Jim Reeves, and more.

Tickets are available via phone at 902-652-2053, online at kingsplayhouse.com, and at the door one hour before showtime.

The Grand Tour will bring their show, with a dash of Christmas, to the stage at the Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside on December 19, 20 and 21. For tickets to the Summerside show, visit collegeofpiping.com.

Music Arcade by Dennis Ellsworth

Absolute Losers

in 2019. The Charlottetown-based band consists of Josh Langille (guitar, vocals), Sam Langille (bass, vocals), and Daniel Hartinger (drums, vocals). They may have named their band after something Josh saw on the bathroom wall at Plan B in Moncton, NB, but they aren’t entirely sure. Daniel says he didn’t like the name much at first, but when they began writing songs, it started to feel right, and today, he admits he loves it.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, the band set up a makeshift studio in their rehearsal space (Josh’s basement in Stratford), and began the trial and error process of self-recording their music.

The very first self-recorded, self-produced offering from The Losers was a two song cassette/digital release called Coexist / Astray, that featured a photograph of Josh and Sam’s grandfather Gerard Mooney holding a bird. It was released in 2021.

Absolute Losers were steadily gathering fans with their 70s post-punk leanings, showing clear influences from bands like Gang of Four, Talking Heads, and Television. Their live shows were fun, precise, yet ragged. Their material twists and turns and offers hooks that could spend some time in your head.

Following a string of early tours, the band, once again, began the arduous process of self-recording. This time, they scrutinized the results, re-recording the songs almost three times before they were satisfied. They handed the tracks over to Graham Walsh (Holy F@#k) to mix it, and he passed them on to Mikey Young, in Australia, for mastering. Their first full length album, At the Mall, was released in August 2023, and featured artwork by Brandon Hood. In 2024, on the strength of At the Mall, they were awarded New Artist of the Year by Music PEI. As well, they signed a publishing deal with CYMBA Music Publishing.

In support of their first album, the band spend a fair amount of time on the road. They toured in Ontario, Quebec, and all around the East Coast. They played SappyFest, Dawson City Music Festival (Yukon), Flourish Festival (Fredericton), and Sommo Festival. They toured with or played shows with Daniel Romano’s Outfit, Dusted, Skydiggers, Tuns, and Holy F@#k, and during these performances, began showcasing new material.

These new songs are heavily influenced by 70s and 80s power pop. The tracks are punchy, precise, once again full of hooks, and loaded with jangly guitars and sweet harmonies, a few times tapping into The Beach Boys. They have traces of Big Star, Fleetwood Mac, The Toms, The Knack, and sometimes they borrow from more recent East Coast Canadian bands like Sloan or The Flashing Lights.

The songs that made up At the Mall were created from rehearsal jams that the trio worked and developed into fully formed songs. That method served the band well when they needed it, but they’ve settled nicely into a new direction, in both style and writing. All three members take turns singing lead vocals. They each brought songs, and as a band they arranged and refined them over a period of creative rehearsals.

Once again, they connected with Graham Walsh (as producer), but this time in Toronto at Palace Sound. Look for news on this release sometime in the near future.

Before they get to the album release, they are preparing a standalone single, to be recorded and released through the Music PEI Golden Ticket program.

If you’re interested in catching Absolute Losers live, you can find them in Charlottetown at Sportsman’s on November 1 and 23, and at The Guild on December 14.

HOLIDAY MUSIC

Winter Wonder

The Holland College Community Band presents their holiday concert, Winter Wonder, at 7:30 pm on November 26 at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall. Donations to the Upper Room Food Bank are gratefully accepted. 140 Weymouth St, Charlottetown.

SUBMITTED

Celtic Christmas

Celtic Christmas, a festive dinner and concert presented by Red Shores, will take place at Top of the Park Restaurant in Charlottetown on November 29. The evening will feature tunes from the Salt Water Dollies and special guest Kelley Mooney. The three-course dinner starts at 6:30 pm with showtime at 8 pm. Tickets are available by calling 902-620-4264.

Brass the Halls

The Great George Street Brass Band will present Brass The Halls 2024 at Zion Presbyterian on December 1 at 7 pm. The musical evening will feature the holiday sounds of PEI’s only full brass

band as well as the popular audience sing-a-long and some special guest stars. Admission by voluntary donation at the door. 135 Prince St, Charlottetown. Info: @PEIbrassband on FB

Island Christmas Traditions

Island Christmas Traditions with Kendall Docherty and Friends will be performed at St. Mark’s Presbyterian on December 1 at 7 pm. Fudge will also be sold. Tickets are available by calling Lois at 902-3688246 or the church office at 902-892-5255. 7 Tamarac Ave, Charlottetown.

Jingle & Mingle

The Jingle & Mingle holiday dance, presented by Red Shores Park After Dark, will be held on December 7 at Red Shores in Charlottetown. The evening will feature live music by Kim Albert & Faces, with the opening act Tip ‘Er Back. Doors open at 7:30 pm, and the dance begins at 8 pm. This is a 19+ event. 58 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown. Tickets: 902-620-4264

Tip ‘Er Back Christmas

The Benevolent Irish Society presents the Tip ‘Er Back Christmas Concert, featuring Allan Betts, Clive Currie, and Wade Murray, at the Irish Cultural Centre on December 13. Admission is available at the door, which opens at 7 pm. Showtime is at 8 pm. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

Absolute Losers formed

Behind the Veil

Harmony House production explores Lucy Maud

(L–R,

Behind the Veil: A Lucy Maud Concert Experience will premiere at Harmony House in Hunter River this month. Evening performances take place at 8 pm on November 15, 16, 22 and 23, with matineed performances on Novemer 16 and 23 at 2 pm.

Created by Alicia Toner and Mike Ross, this concert experience examines the life and soul of one Canada’s most iconic and enduring authors: Lucy Maud Montgomery. Blending letters, diary entries, and poetry with original songwriting from the ensemble, this unique Harmony House production will pull back the veil to reveal who Maud really was.

Featuring Brielle Ansems, Carlie Howell, Julain Molnar and Garrett Sherwood, as well as Alicia and Mike, this tight-knit ensemble will bring to life the spirit of a Canadian icon. harmonyhousepei.com

Sounds familiar

A selection of tribute performances in November

Eva Cassidy by Sheila Ann Smith

Trailside Music Hall

November 12

Bonnie Raitt by Kelley Mooney

Trailside Music Hall

November 28

Kelley Mooney and Route 225 present a tribute to Bonnie Raitt at Trailside Music Hall on November 28 at 8 pm.

Bonnie Raitt has spent over three decades inspiring generations with a unique style that blends blues, folk, and pop influences, spanning everything from Robert Johnson to Motown and soulful ballads.

Eva Cassidy, an American singer-songwriter, passed away from melanoma in 1996 at just 33. She gained international fame posthumously when a 2000 BBC broadcast of her singing “Over the Rainbow” became one of the most requested performances on Top of the Pops. Her album Songbird topped the UK charts, and her renditions of “Fields of Gold,” “Over the Rainbow,” and “Songbird” earned her a devoted fan base.

Eva’s legacy continues through Alberta-born Sheila Ann Smith’s tribute. With family roots in Summerside and nearly a decade living in eastern PEI, Smith has released four studio albums and performed on five continents.

Tickets: trailside.ca

A Night of the Eagles: Life in the Fast Lane

Trailside Music Hall

November 21–23

Craig Fair Music Productions brings back A Night of the Eagles: Life in the Fast Lane after two sold-out runs. Performances, starring Brad Milligan, Joce Reyome, Alyssa Harper, and Craig Fair, will take place at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on November 21, 22, and 23 at 8 pm.

Tickets: trailside.ca

Dive deep into the catalog of this living legend as Kelley Mooney and Route 225 (Deryl Gallant, Todd MacLean, Adam Gaudet, and Roland Beaulieu) pack as many Raitt classics as one show can hold. Together, they bring decades of professional music experience to the stage.

Tickets: trailside.ca

Taylor Swift by Katy Ellis Harbourfront Theatre

November 29

Presented by Forrest Jones Entertainment, A Tribute to Taylor Swift with Katy Ellis takes the stage at Summerside’s Harbourfront Theatre on November 29 at 7:30 pm. Ellis and her band promise an accessible concert experience for Swift enthusiasts, celebrating her chart-topping hits and capturing the essence of her signature sound and performances.

For more information, visit forrestjonesentertainment.com/taylorswift. Tickets: harbourfronttheatre.com

Sheila Ann Smith and her band will perform a tribute to Eva Cassidy at Trailside Music Hall on November 12 at 8 pm.

from top): Mike Ross, Alicia Toner, Brielle Ansems, Carlie Howell, Garrett Sherwood and Julain Mulnar

LIVE MUSIC

bars, lounges, cafés...

Albert & Crown Pub

Thursday (8–11 pm), Friday (6–9 pm) and Saturday (7–10 pm) (unless noted): DanaLee Lynch-Veinotte & Vanessa Millman (Nov 1); Blake Crockett (2); Joey Doucette (7/14/28); Blair Gaudet (8); Boondockers (9); Evan Oliver (15); TBA (16/21); Crystal Paynter & Cory Gallant (22 @7 pm); Very Best of Up West (23 @8 pm); Floyd Gaudet (29). 480 Main St, Alberton.

Baba’s Lounge

Fridays & Saturdays (10 pm) (unless noted): EDM Rave night with Molly Pocket (Nov 1); Takeda Takeda, He She They (2); GG Band + Guests (8); Danny Gallant Band (9 @5 pm); Riptide (9 @10 pm); Dylan K Punk Show (15); Ocean Charter of Values, Takeda Takeda, Zebedee (16); Keepin’ Busy with Billy Bonka, DMayne Event and George Jonesin’ (22); EMO Night (23); BELVK, Johnny Deathwish, Cutdeep (28); Plain Dirty Blues (29 @5 pm); Javier & Diego (29 @11 pm). Island Jazz on Thursdays (7:30 pm); Open Mic with KINLEY on Wednesdays (9 pm). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Bogside Brewing

Fridays & Saturdays (6:30–9:30 pm): Stephen Szwarc (Nov 1); Jon Matthews (2); Margarita Wayne (8); Marvin Birt (9); Rick Arsenault (15); Barry O’Brien (16); Lisa Birt (22); Billy White (23); David Woodside (29); Keira Loane (30).. 11 Brook St, Montague.

Brothers 2

Thursdays (7–9 pm) & Fridays (7–10 pm): David Woodside (Nov 1/21); Nick Hann (7); D’Arcy & Moe (8); Jordan Cameron (14/28); Chris & Alyssa (15); Danny Drouin (22); Todd Gallant & Chris Arsenault (29). 618 Water St, Summerside.

Charlottetown Legion

Saturdays (9:30 pm): No Turmoil (Nov 2); Hache (9); Rustlers (16); Miler Creek (23); Kim Albert (30). All are welcome. 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.

Craft Beer Corner

Live DJ on Saturdays (10 pm): Diego (Nov 2); Dekz (9); Javier (16); Sirreal & Old Milk (23); Mojo (30). The Corner Session (jazzy house) with Diego on November 15 (9 pm). 156 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Evermoore Brewing

Tuesdays (6–8 pm): Nick Doneff (Nov 5); Jordan LeClair & Tyler McDonnell (12); Margarita Wayne (19); Jordan Cameron (26). 192 Water St, Summerside.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market

Fridays (4:30–6:30 pm) & Saturdays (5–7 pm): Nathan Carragher (Nov 1); Jordan Cameron (2); Nat & Wayne (8); Mark &

Spencer Phillips (9); David Woodside (15); Brian J Dunn (16); Trever Cameron (22); Tiantian & Vivian (23); Luka Hall (29); John MacAllar (30). 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.

Gahan House

Wednesdays & Thursdays (9 pm): Curtis Reginald (Oct 30); Nathan Carragher (Nov 6); Stephen Szwarc (7/20); Mat Hannah (13); Adam MacGregor (14); private event (21); Ryan Merry (27); Fraser McCallum (28). 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Harmony House Lounge

Occassional (6:30 pm): Jon Rehder & Chris Gauthier (Nov 8); Brian Dunn (9); Nick Doneff (28). HH Jazz Jam with Garrett Sherwood and guests on Wednesdays (7 pm). 19814 Rte 2, Hunter River.

Lone Oak at Fox Meadow

Fridays (6–8 pm): Fraser McCallum (Nov 1); TBD (8); Mike Stratton (15); Nathan Carragher (22); Brad Milligan (30). 167 Kinlock Rd, Stratford.

Lone Oak Brew Pub

Craig Fair on Thursdays (6–8 pm). 15 Milky Way, Charlottetown.

The Local Pub & Oyster Bar

Sundays (1–3 pm). 202 Buchanan Dr, Charlottetown.

The Lucky Bean Café

Hard Ticket acoustic on November 30 (7–9 pm). 576 Main St, Montague.

Marc’s Lounge

Fridays & Saturdays (9–11 pm): Jordan Cameron (Nov 1/16); Mike Stratton (2); John McLaren (8/29); Lawrence Maxwell (9); Mat Hannah (15/22); Adam McGregor (23/30). 125 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Montague Legion

Karaoke on Fridays (Nov 8/15/22 @8 pm) with Gloria. 15 Douses Rd, Montague.

North Rustico Lions Club

Saturdays (8–11 pm) (unless noted): North Star Minor Hockey Association Dance with The Wannabeez (Nov 2 @9 pm); Seaglass (9); Kenny Pearl and the Oysters (16); Kelly Buote (23); TBA (30). Jam Session on Tuesdays (7 pm start). Karaoke with Len Skinner (1/15/29 @8 pm). 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.

Olde Dublin Pub

Fridays and Saturdays (10 pm): Wrecking Crew (Nov 1); Adam MacGregor and Foes (2); Main Street Bullies (8); Gypsy Soul (9); Lieutenant Dan (15); Down With Darby (16); Shipwrecks (22);

MacBeth (23); TBA (29); Wannabeez (30). Trivia and Tunes with Cone, Robbie & Pierce on Thursdays. 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

The Old Triangle

Fridays & Saturdays (8–11 pm). 189 Great George St, Charlottetown

Parkdale Sherwood Lions Club

Open mic session of the first Monday of the month (Nov 4) at 7 pm. 56 Maple St, Charlottetown.

Razzy’s Roadhouse

Fridays (6–9 pm): Kevin Arthur (Nov 1/15); Brian Dunn (8/22/29). Karaoke with JROD on November 16 (7–10 pm). 161 St. Peters Rd, Charlottetown.

RCAF Wing Summerside

Saturdays (9 pm). 329 North Market St, Summerside.

Red’s Gold Cup Lounge

Fridays & Saturdays (9 pm–midnight Barry O’Brien (Nov 1); Mat Hannah (2); Roger Stone (8); Mike Hannah (9); Billy White (15); Wayne Gallant (16); Nathan Carragher (22); Breakwater Acoustic (23); Mat Hannah (29); Karen & Mike Penton (30). Red Shores, 21 Exhibition Dr, Charlottetown.

Salvador Dalí Café

Got Blues on Saturdays (2–4 pm) featuring weekly guests and blues jam. 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

The Silver Fox

Fridays (10 pm) & Saturdays (2:30–5:30 pm/9:30 pm): No Turmoil (Nov 1); Trevor Cameron/Kenny Pearl & The Oysters (2) Swamp River (8); TBA/ Down With Darby, Brad Milligan & Brooke MacArthur (9); TBA (15); Floyd Gaudet/TBA (16); Kenny Pearl & The Oysters (22); Acoustic Brothers/ TBA (23); No Turmoil (29); Trevor Cameron/Roundabout (30). 110 Water St, Summerside.

Summerside Legion

Karaoke with Lesa & Leonard Coughlin on Thursdays (7:30 pm). 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.

Learn About Wills

MUSIC

Informal jam session

The next jam sessions for adults at the Summerside Library will be held on October 28 and November 25 at 6 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.

Music Composition workshop with Rebekah Maxner

The PEI Registered Music Teachers’ Association presents a Music Composition Workshop with Canadian composer and educator Rebekah Maxner on November 2 at UPEI’s Dr. Steel Recital Hall. The 10 am workshop is for teachers. Piano teachers often struggle with guilt, self-doubt, and hesitant students when teaching composition. In this workshop, Maxner will share her journey through these challenges, offering practical steps to spark creativity in teachers and in their students. Stay for the student workshop to see these ideas in action. The 11 am workshop is for students. This hands-on session invites students to bring a percussion instrument (or two) and make some noise. Through interactive music-making activities, participants will build confidence in creating without sheet music and develop basic improvisation skills—the foundation of composition. The workshop also explores the importance of creativity and self-expression. Maxner is a versatile composer whose piano music blends impressionist, jazz, Baroque, and popular styles, evoking vivid imagery and emotion. She is an active member of the global music community, writes the Rebekah Maxner Piano@Play blog, and releases new music monthly through her MaxMusic Piano eSheet Club. Fees vary based on PEIRMTA membership. Payments can be made via e-transfer to

treasurer@peirmta.ca (include the participant’s name and “Composition” in the memo). Info: info@peirmta.ca

Sound Series XV

Sound Series is a concert, meet-up, and open jam for Island electronic musicians and audio experimentalists. The series will take place from 7–10 pm at the Kirk of St James on November 30. Anyone with an interest in any genre of electronic or experimental music is invited to listen, learn, and participate. 35 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown.

SoPA mentorship progam

Kendra Lyttle, BeiBei Zhu, mentor Craig Dodge, Ivàn Garnica, and Diana Castro look over the marketing strategy that the group is developing for the SoPA music label they plan to launch

Holland College’s School of Performing Arts (S0PA) is launching a new mentorship program that will enable seven second-year Music Performance students each year, for the next three years, to receive additional training to enhance their skills. Established through a donation from the R. Howard Webster Foundation, the program offers two streams: the technical aspects of live event production (sound, lighting, and more) or the business and promotion side of performing arts. Mentors will work with each student for three hours per week in the first semester, developing specialized skills in their chosen stream. In the second semester, students will apply their knowledge by producing concerts, events, and other creative projects. Those in the business stream will collaborate with their mentor to promote music created by current and former students through a SoPA record label. The program not only benefits students but also helps meet the demand for skilled workers in the local and regional music industry. Info: hollandcollege.com

BUZZ IFIEDS

THE MOTHERZ OF CONFEDERATION. Keep an eye out for The Motherz of Confederation appearing and performing at random on a sidewalk or public space near you this fall!

ORGANIC VEGGIE DELIVERY

Home delivery (year-round) of fresh local organic veggies, fruit, and other foods and products. $25 / $40 / $50 Veggie Boxes or custom orders. Aaron Koleszar 902-629-2575, aaron@organicveggiedelivery.com, www.organicveggiedelivery.com

CHRISTMAS MARKETPLACE AT BLANK CANVAS Pick up the perfect handmade gift this holiday season. Shop 14 local artists and makers products from November 19 until December 23. Blank Canvas Art Supplies 10, Prince St, Charlottetown.

THE STOICS (A NOVEL) by wdford. A story with East Coast Flavour. And historical Plot lines! At THE BOOKMAN on Queen Street in Charlottetown.

TEXT ONLY BUZZIFIEDS

30 words for $25 (+tax). Buy in bulk to save—6 months for $125 (+tax).

PRIVATE VOICE LESSONS for non-classical singers with JUNO nominated recording artist Teresa Doyle. For shy beginners to touring musicians. Contact teresa@teresadoyle.com

PROFESSIONAL ART

PRODUCTS. The highest, professional calibre painting supplies to be found in Canada - including Gamblin Oils, Libeco Linen, Rosemary & Co and Princeton Brushes, Meeden Easels. www.professionalart.ca.

Rebekah Maxner