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Island Climate Change Art
Installation at Turning the Tide Conference at UPEI
Turning the Tide conference, the exhibit will feature a variety of local and regional artists.
Visitors will experience an interflow of visual art, poetry, and ambient soundscape by Heather Taves, alongside a live-painting mural creation by artist Julea Hope Boswell. Projections will showcase over 100 of Boswell’s paintings combined with Islandthemed poetry by Laurie Brinklow and Len St-Aubin.
The evening will include screenings of three short films by local filmmaker Mille Clarkes and a self-guided interactive exhibit examining equity, vulnerability, and resilience on Prince Edward Island—co-led by public partners and researchers from the UPEI Centre for Health and Community Research. It will also feature photography, painting, and more.
Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, email turningthetide2025@gmail.com or call 902-620-5013.
An open art gallery at UPEI’s McDougall Hall on June 19 from 4–6 pm will showcase the Island Climate Change Art Installation. Part of UPEI’s
Paradise by Julea Hope Boswell
Profile:
Jaimie Augustine by Julie Bull
Creating change
An ambitious person, passionate about their culture, language, and the arts, Jaimie Augustine, whose Mi’kmaq name is Kitpu Pigun Epit (Eagle Feather Woman), has a longstanding history of being the change they wish to see in the world. “When I started to change, everything changed.”
As a Mi’kmaw person, Jaimie recalls growing up in challenging circumstances, being led to believe that a different life wasn’t possible. Jaimie is a millennial scoop survivor and has spent their lifetime re-connecting to that which was forcibly taken away from them. “We didn’t know what it was like to be free, and we still don’t.”
“First Nations Peoples across the country were forcibly placed on reservations, on parts of the land where nothing can grow.” Despite the ongoing colonial influence, Jaimie has vision beyond our current system of existence. “As we continue to rebuild ourselves, our communities, and our systems, we get closer to living in the future we wish to live. We learn that
cultural and language revitalization. “I am motivated by the next generation of young people. Those who are learning to be themselves fully in the world.” Jaimie is working hard to create unity within the communities that they are a part of. Jaimie doesn’t dwell on the hard parts of their upbringing and formative years. They have used that pain as a catalyst for change. “There was a lack of support when I was younger, so I keep working on being able to be the support that I needed back then, the support people still need today.” Jaimie’s generous compassion comes from a lifetime of struggle. They have learned a lot, and they freely share their gifts with the world. “I give what I need(ed) to receive.”
Along with their work at the Native Council of PEI, Jaimie is an artist who shares their culture and their healing in everything they create. “Art is both a practice and product of expression, and I’m so glad I allow my spirit to shine through art.” Jaimie’s artistic practice is one that allows deep healing and connection. “Art helps me work through my pain.” When someone engages with Jaimie’s art, they can feel the depth of emotional connection that has been part of the creation process.
we are deserving of all the healing and growth, even if we are put in circumstances where growth seems impossible. It’s never impossible, though it may be difficult.”
Struggling with addiction and homelessness from a young age, Jaimie is no stranger to overcoming adversity. For a long time, they couldn’t get their basic needs met so there was no space for dreaming and ambition. Their time was spent just finding ways to survive. Once Jaimie was able to get their basic needs met, they learned to start shifting their goals. “I’m thankful for every single person I have met along the journey who has helped me see that I am deserving of a good life.” Jaimie is deeply committed to healing so they can be there for their family and community. “Now I can live life. I can change and grow, supporting my children and community members along the way.”
Jaimie is the Language and Drumming Coordinator at the Native Council of PEI where they share their passion for
Growth and healing are not linear, and Jaimie continues to work diligently to create the life that they want for themselves and their family. “I continue to do the hard work of shifting my mindset and connecting to cultural and creative outlets.” Challenges and obstacles persist, and Jaimie has found the inner capacity to continue working through hard things. “I have learned that my voice matters and it’s ok not to be ok.” Jaimie’s tenacity comes from their strong connection to community and the land. “I remind myself and others to find the people and places that feel like home.”
As a 2-Spirit person, Jaimie is no stranger to living life in the in-between spaces. “I love the early part of spring where it feels like we are in-between seasons.” Jaimie is modernizing traditions and unravelling the ongoing impacts of colonization. “It’s important to me that 2-Spirit teachings are available to our community. We lost so much during the process of colonial influence through Christianity.”
Never shying away from difficulties, Jaimie is a cycle-breaker who is deeply committed to creating a more culturally responsive community. “Life can keep presenting challenges and struggles but no matter how many walls I come across, I find a way to climb over that wall.”
“Our wishes can become our reality if we are willing to do the hard work. Everyone is worthy and deserves to make their own dreams come true.”
Summer exhibitions
New exhibitions at Confederation Centre Art Gallery
New exhibitions exploring hip hop music, Irish heritage, Indigenous communities, and more are on view this summer at Confederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown. The public is invited to view the exhibitions at the Summer Gallery Opening on June 7 at 7 pm. An after party will begin at 8:30 pm with performances by LXVNDR with DJ Alley Cat, Eric Broadbent, and Norm Strangely.
Exhibitions on view include:
East of East
Dive into the rich history of hiphop culture in Atlantic Canada through this interactive exhibition that celebrates diverse communities, identities, and ideas. This archive of recordings, video, posters, and more showcases the often-overlooked hip-hop legacy of the East Coast while honouring the individuals who have contributed to its vibrancy. Curated by Michael McGuire. Originated at MSVU Art Gallery.
Benevolent, Irish, and Social: 200 Years of Service to Islanders
(top): Jerry Evans, Migration Cycles, 2002, Lithograph (14/20). Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Collection, The Rooms.
From buying coffins to hosting ceilidhs to supporting immigrants, this exhibition celebrates the preservation and promotion of Irish history, culture, and heritage on the Island. This exhibition presents a collection of artifacts and documents tracing the activities of the Benevolent Irish Society of PEI from 1825 to the present day. The exhibition’s official opening is June 1 at 2 pm. All are welcome to attend.
Jerry Evans: Weljesi
(bottom): Robert Emmett Irish Drama, Lyceum Theatre, March 17, 1894
the country – emphasizing its people and their ways of life rather than an idealized wilderness. Curated by Pan Wendt.
Hidden Blackness: Edward Mitchell Bannister (1828–1901)
One of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most significant visual artists, Jerry Evans has been dedicated to the preservation, reclamation, and continued growth of Indigenous communities for more than 30 years. This exhibition is rooted in Indigenous concepts of cyclical time, storytelling, and beauty, and features his iconic prints, paintings, projections, and video portraiture. Curated by Jenelle Duval. Organized and circulated by The Rooms.
Kathleen Daly and George Pepper: The Land and its People
For over three decades following their marriage in 1929, Kathleen Daly and George Pepper crisscrossed Canada, capturing its people and its landscapes in paintings and drawings. Influenced by the Group of Seven, they were interested in the unique character of
The story of Bannister’s life and art—from his humble beginnings in New Brunswick to international success—is a testament to the strength and conviction of his artistic vision. In 1876, Bannister won first place at the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition, making him the first Black artist and the first Canadian to win a major art prize in North America. This is the first major exhibition of his work presented in Canada. Featuring loans from the permanent collections of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Beaverbrook Art Gallery, and more, the exhibition is organized and circulated by Owens Art Gallery in partnership with the Black Artists Network of Nova Scotia.
The Summer Gallery Opening is admission by donation, and no registration is required. Visit confederationcentre.com/artgallery for more information.
Baskets: for ever and ever
Jane Whitten’s exhibit Baskets: for ever and ever... is on view until June 26 at the North Nook Gallery.
Whitten’s work reflects a profound dialogue between tradition and contemporary environmental concerns. As a basket maker rooted in traditional fiber techniques, Whitten repurposes discarded industrial materials—primarily plastics—to create innovative and thought-provoking works. Her practice draws attention to the escalating production of plastics, fueled by the fossil fuel industry.
By crafting objects that are both familiar and aesthetically compelling, Whitten invites viewers to reconsider their relationship with plastics. Her work challenges the viewer to confront the environmental consequences of their dependence on these materials and underscores the urgency of
Where the Light Gathers
New works by Patrick Guindon at Creative Rebel Studio
The exhibition Where the Light Gathers—A Celebration of Hope in Bloom by Patrick Guindon will open June 1 from 1–4 pm at Creative Rebel Studio in Montague.
Step into a world where joy rises through struggle, where bold colour meets quiet strength, and where each brushstroke carries the warmth of renewal. Where the Light Gathers is a vibrant collection of acrylic and mixed
collective action to address climate change.
Whitten was nominated for the Canada Council’s Saidye Bronfman Award for Excellence in Fine Craft in 2001 and 2024. Visit janewhitten.ca to learn more about the artist.
The North Nook Gallery is a tiny art gallery space in the front window of The Guild, located at 111 Queen Street in Charlottetown.
media works exploring themes of resilience, beauty, and transformation. Featuring expressive florals, soaring birds, and guiding lighthouses, this show invites you to witness the radiant moments that emerge from the shadows—and the powerful softness of light that lingers.
ArtTalk
With Artist-in-residence
Russna Kaur—June 19
Confederation Centre Art Gallery (CCAG) is supporting an artist-in-residence for the month of June through the Annandale Artist Residency. Artist-in-residence Russna Kaur will give an ArtTalk about her work on June 19 at 7 pm. This free public event will include time for questions and conversation with the artist.
Born in Brampton, ON, Russna Kaur is a painter living and working in Vancouver, BC. She is the recipient of the Takao Tanabe Painting Prize and the IDEA Art Award. She has exhibited works nationally at institutions including the Kamloops Art Gallery; Remai Modern in Saskatoon, SK; Vancouver Art Gallery; Audain Art Museum in Whistler, BC; College Art Galleries at the University of Saskatchewan, and internationally at Galerie Isa in Mumbai, India, and Gajah Gallery in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. She has an upcoming exhibition at the Art Gallery of Burlington, ON.
She was commissioned to create public artwork for the Translink Art Columns in the City of Richmond, BC; the Boren Banner Series at the Frye Art Museum, Seattle, WA; and the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives in Brampton, ON. Upcoming public art commissions include the Square Nine Developments in Burnaby, BC.
Kaur completed a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Waterloo and a Master of Fine Arts at Emily Carr University of Art + Design. She has been an artist-in-residence at the Burrard Arts Foundation in Vancouver, the Centrum Emerging Artist Residency in Port Townsend, WA, an Independent Artist Residency in Los Angeles, CA, and the Wassaic Project in New York.
Kaur’s work is held in numerous
private, corporate and institutional collections including the TD Bank Collection, RBC Art Collection, Audain Art Museum, the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Surrey Art Gallery, and the Gordon Smith Gallery of Canadian Art. For information on all Gallery events, visit confederationcentre.com/ artgallery.
Art Attack Edition
Art Night at The Guild—June 6
This month, CreativePEI is partnering with PridePEI to bring Art Night at The Guild: Art Attack Edition on June 6 from 5–7 pm.
During the event, attendees can enjoy screenings of select episodes from the classic ‘90s kids’ show Art Attack and follow along as host Neil Buchanan guides viewers through one of his iconic creative projects. All supplies will be provided, and the episodes will be pre-selected.
This free, all-ages event will also include light snacks. It’s a nostalgic drop-in evening where participants can finally take a crack at one of Buchanan’s big ideas.
Jane Whitten in the North Nook Gallery
Woven baskets by Jane Whitten
Russna Kaur, The intricacies of absence...chalk eyes (2024), acrylic and oil stick on canvas, 48 x 54 in
Arts Fest 2025
Celebrations throughout the city of Summerside
Arts Fest 2025 is a vibrant, citywide celebration of creativity, running from May 31 to June 18 in Summerside, PEI. With hands-on workshops, live performances, Art Alley at the Farmers’ Market, and community art projects, this year’s festival invites everyone to get inspired and make their mark.
In addition to artist and artisan workshops, community art projects, and city-wide exhibits and performances at cultural institutions, Arts Fest highlights include the Art Battle Opening Night at Evermoore Brewery on June 1, a Fibre Art Bee at Lefurgey Cultural Centre on June 4, an Arts Fest edition of the Summerside Farmers’ Market with Art Alley on June 7, Art in Bloom: Art in the Garden at Holman’s Ice Cream Parlour on June 7, Creative Kids Day
on June 8, and a rug-hooking exhibit at Lefurgey Cultural Centre on June 18.
Summerside Arts Fest invites artists, art-lovers, and those who are simply curious to make their mark and experience the joy of creativity in community.
Visit wyattheritagepropertiesinc. com or call 902-432-1298 for more information about the festival.
Hooked on Maurice
Lady Slipper Rug Hooking Guild exhibition
Hooked on Maurice: Art in Wool, a vibrant textile tribute to renowned PEI artist Maurice Bernard, will open June 18 at Lefurgey Cultural Centre in Summerside.
A professional artist since 1982, Maurice Bernard is known for his captivating paintings in oils and chalk pastels that reflect the beauty and grace of the Island and the warmth of family life. His work is cherished in homes and businesses across North America. In addition to his studio work, Bernard is a respected art instructor and a well-known sandcastle sculptor, often
found creating intricate castles along PEI’s north shore during the summer months. He lives and works in Summerside, PEI.
In this exhibition, members of the Lady Slipper Rug Hooking Guild have reimagined Bernard’s expressive imagery through the timeless craft of rug hooking. Using wool as their medium, they have created a textured collection of hand-hooked works that honour both Bernard’s artistic vision and the rich tradition of textile art.
Hooked on Maurice is presented by Wyatt Heritage Properties as part of Summerside Arts Fest 2025. This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the work of a celebrated Island painter through an entirely new lens—one stitched with colour, creativity, and care. It will be on display until September and can be viewed Monday through Saturday, from 9 am–4:30 pm. Admission is free, and all are welcome.
Anchored in Nature
Works by David Stewart at Ellen’s Creek Gallery
Anchored In Nature, a new exhibition of works by David Stewart, opens June 19, from 7–9 pm at Ellen’s Creek Gallery in Charlottetown. All are welcome to attend.
Dr. David Stewart, a family physician and lifelong Prince Edward Islander, presents his first art exhibition in 13 years, featuring over 70 works that reflect a deep and enduring connection to the Island’s landscapes and seascapes.
With more than 50 years’ experience in local photography and 30 years in painting—most recently focusing on oils and pastels—his work captures the beauty and complexity of PEI across all four seasons.
Fascinated by the Island’s ever-changing environment, he has spent over two decades painting outdoors, often working from a small boat close to shore to authentically portray the Maritime scenery that inspires him most.
This exhibition offers a compelling glimpse into a lifelong artistic journey, rooted in observation, experience, and an abiding love for the natural world of PEI.
Anchored In Nature will be on view until July 10.
Summerside Arts Festival 2022
David Stewart with some of his art
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Tiny Art Gallery
Nancy Cole installation opens fourth season
and resilience, creating a visual that speaks to the universal themes of hope and human vulnerability. Each piece is marked by a tedious, almost meditative process, where the act of stitching becomes a metaphor for the reconciliation of memory and identity. The resulting artworks are both unsettling and beautiful.
The Inn at Bay Fortune Brigade, friends, and community volunteers includes Inn at Bay Fortune Brigade, friends, and community volunteers includes entertainment, Island chowder, steak, lobster, Inn greens, fresh bread, entertainment, chowder, lobster, Inn greens, bread, delicious strawberry rhubarb shortcake, and much more. Thank you to our delicious strawberry shortcake, and much more. Thank to our many sponsors & volunteers! In support of Farmers Helping Farmers Kenya many sponsors & volunteers! In support of Farmers Helping Farmers Kenya CookHouses, PEI School Lunch program, Souris Food Bank & Community CookHouses, PEI School Lunch program, Souris Food Bank & Community Fridge, Souris School Breakfast Program & Coats for Kids. Souris School Breakfast Program & Coats
It truly takes a village to help kids in need. Our goal is to feed 500 people this truly takes village to help kids in need. Our goal is to feed 500 people this July! This outdoor East Coast grilling event led by July! This outdoor East Coast grilling event led by Chef Michael Smith Chef Smith , The , The Inn at Bay Fortune Brigade, friends, and community volunteers includes Inn at Bay Fortune Brigade, friends, and community volunteers includes entertainment, Island chowder, steak, lobster, Inn greens, fresh bread, entertainment, Island chowder, steak, lobster, Inn greens, fresh bread, delicious strawberry rhubarb shortcake, and much more. Thank you to our delicious strawberry shortcake, and much more. Thank to our many sponsors & volunteers! In support of Farmers Helping Farmers Kenya many sponsors & volunteers! In support of Farmers Helping Farmers Kenya CookHouses, PEI School Lunch program, Souris Food Bank & Community CookHouses, PEI School Lunch program, Souris Food Bank & Community Fridge, Souris School Breakfast Program & Coats for Kids. Fridge, Souris School Breakfast Program & Coats for Kids.
The Fitzroy St. Tiny Art Gallery’s fourth season opened with Flight Path, a mixed media embroidery installation by Nancy Cole, on view until June 14. This ephemeral tiny installation connects the human form to the world of flight. Murmurations tell the story of an instant. In a blink of the eye, it’s gone. Cole uses the French knot embroidery stitch to explore themes of legacy, abandonment, and nostalgia. Her work balances intricate thread work with a narrative. Trained as a journalist and photographer, she transitioned to thread art in search of her visual voice. Her work embodies a delicate balance between fragility
This exhibit, curated by Monica Lacey, can be viewed at 295 Fitzroy Street, Charlottetown.
Follow @fitzroysttinyartgallery
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Recruitment month
Breadalbane Gallery invites artists to contribute
June is recruitment month at the Breadalbane Gallery, and this month’s exhibition will highlight fresh approaches to art. The show opens on June 13, with a reception from 6–8 pm. Visitors can expect to see new visions.
Artists interested in contributing to this new vision are invited to submit photographic samples of their work to breadalbane.gallery@gmail. com or mjanowicz@hotmail.com. The gallery welcomes artists working in any medium and at any stage of their artistic development or training.
The Breadalbane Gallery features Island artists, offering them a chance
Excellence in Craft
Exhibition at Eptek Art & Culture Centre this summer
This year’s Celebration of Craft exhibition, Excellence in Craft, will be on display at Eptek Art & Culture Centre (EACC) in Summerside from June 17–September 26.
Mounted in partnership with the PEI Crafts Council, giving special
to share new pieces regularly—allowing the public to follow their creative process and progress throughout the year. Artists also have the opportunity to hold a solo exhibition in the gallery annex, with the other gallery artists showing simultaneously in the main gallery.
The gallery is located at 4023 Dixon Road in Breadalbane. Open from 11am–3 pm on Tuesday, 9 am–1 pm on Wednesday, and from 4–8 pm on Thursday.
attention to 2025 marking their 60th anniversary, this exhibition will feature a wide variety of well-crafted contemporary pieces inspired by PEI’s fine craft community.
The official opening reception will be held at Eptek on June 29 at 1 pm. This is a free event, refreshments will be served, and all are welcome.
EACC is a site of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation and is located at 130 Heather Moyse Drive on the Summerside waterfront. Exhibit admission is by donation. For more information, call 902-888-8373, visit peimuseum.ca, or follow @eptek.centre on social media.
Embroidery by Nancy Cole
Chef Michael Smith Chef Smith , The ,
Winter Birds by Zoe Novaczek
PEI Photography Club
43rd annual show at The Guild
The PEI Photography Club’s 43rd annual show will be held this year on June 27 and 28 in the Black Box Art Space at The Guild (upstairs) in Charlottetown. Everyone is invited to attend a celebratory reception on June 28 at 2 pm. The show will be open for viewing on June 27 and 28 and will then be available for viewing during shows held at the theatre until July 23.
“For this year’s show, we are continuing with our open exhibition format,” says photo show chair Elaine Schuller. “The goal is to encourage our diverse members to express who they are as photographers, with no limitations. No judging, no
Epekwitk Quill
Sisters
Artist talk at Hilda Woolnough Gallery
This Town is Small will present an artist talk this month with the Epekwitk Quill Sisters: Cheryl Simon, Melissa Peter-Paul, and Kay Sark.
For the past six years, this group
winners. Just an exhibition of what we are all about.”
Club members will present a series of photographs on a theme and in a style of their choice. With the diverse interests of photographers in the club, the show is sure to provide something for everyone to enjoy.
“The annual show is an opportunity for members to share their passion for photography with others,” says club president Phil Matusiewicz. “It also encourages members to develop their personal skills and learn through new challenges.”
For more information, visit peiphotoclub.com or theguildpei.com.
of skilled Mi’kmaq women from Epekwitk has worked together to revitalize the traditional art form of porcupine quillwork. The talk will explore their collaborative process, individual approaches to quillwork, and their recent exhibition, Elawika’tikne’l, at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery.
The Epekwitk Quill Sisters Artist Talk will take place from 6–7 pm on June 16 at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild in Charlottetown. A Q&A will follow. Everyone is welcome to attend.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
The Human Condition #1 by Stephen Donaldson (left) and Encore by Elaine Schuller
EXHIBITS
galleries, museums...
Acadian Museum of PEI
Lobster bites!, showcasing the role lobster plays in Acadian culture and history, is on display until this fall. Visit the permanent exhibit and video The Island Acadians: The Story of a People. Acadian genealogy resources are available and there is a gift shop on site. 23 Main Dr. E., Miscouche. Info: 902-432-2880, museeacadien@gmail.com
Black Box Art Space at The Guild
The PEI Photography Club’s 43rd annual show be on view June 27 and 28. All are welcome to the celebratory reception on June 28 at 2 pm. The show will be open for viewing during shows held at The Guild (upstairs) until July 23. 111 Queen Street, Charlottetown. theguildpei.com
Breadalbane Gallery
A new show opens June 13 with a reception from 6–8 pm. The Gallery is recruiting new artists. Submit photographic samples of work to breadalbane.gallery@ gmail.com or mjanowicz@hotmail. com. Current artists include: Denise Livingstone, Zoe Novaczek, Laura Bain, Joan Parker Sutton, Will Baker, Patricia Lush, Lily-Anne Hein, Sabine Nuesch, Leo (Liu, Xin), Vian Emery, Haley Lewis, Erin Veitch, Yuzhu Yang, Silver Frith, Zora Wendt, Marianne Janowicz, and others. Open Tuesday (11 am–3 pm), Wednesday (9 am–1 pm), and Thursday (4–8 pm). 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.
Confederation Centre Art Gallery
All are welcome to attend the Centre’s Summer Gallery Opening on June 7 at 7 pm. Admission is free, and no registration is required. On view are: Benevolent, Irish, and Social: 200 Years of Service to Islanders from June 1–September 14 (opening June 1 at 2 pm; all are welcome); Jerry Evans: Weljesi from June 7–September 28; Hidden Blackness: Edward Mitchell Bannister until September 14;
and Kathleen Daly and George Pepper: The Land and its People until September 28. Open daily. Admission is by donation. 130 Queen St, Charlottetown. confederationcentre.com
Cornwall Library Art Gallery
Cutest Place On Earth, a collection of paintings of Island farm life on a hill by Zoe Nichols, is on view until June 20. The opening celebration of the Captured Memories exhibit takes place on June 24 at 7 pm and will feature Fred and Joyce Gill sharing stories that have been captured in paint and thread. 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. library.pe.ca
Creative Rebel Studio
Where the Light Gathers—A Celebration of Hope in Bloom by Patrick Guindon opens June 1 with a reception from 1–4 pm. All are welcome. 538 Main St, Montague.
Details Fine Art Gallery
Island artist Richard Vickerson presents over 30 new works for the 2025 season, including scenes from PEI as well as works inspired by a recent trip to the Magdalen Islands. 166 Richmond St, Charlottetown. detailsfineart.com
Ellen’s Creek Gallery
Anchored in Nature by David Stewart opens with a reception on June 19 from 7–9 pm. All are welcome. The exhibition with be on view until July 10. Open Monday–Friday (9 am–5 pm). 525 North River Rd, Charlottetown. Info: 902-368-3494
Eptek Art & Culture Centre
The annual ArtsSmarts exhibition is on view until June 8. All are welcome to the opening reception on June 4 from 6–8 pm. The Summerside Art Club’s exhibition, Threads, is on view in the lobby until June 13. The Celebration of Craft exhibition, Excellence in Craft, will be on view from June 17–September 26. All are welcome to the opening reception on June 29 at 1 pm. Visit the permanent exhibition on the history and architecture of
Summerside. Admission is by donation. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. peimuseum.ca
Fitzroy St Tiny Art Gallery
Flight Path, a mixed media embroidery installation by Nancy Cole, is on view until June 14. Curated by Monica Lacey. Follow @fitzroysttinyartgallery on IG for updates. 295 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown.
Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild
Elawika’tikne’l by the Epekwitk Quill Sisters—Melissa Peter-Paul, Kay Bernard, and Cheryl Simon—is on view until June 28. Presented by This Town is Small. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Lefurgey Cultural Centre
Hooked on Maurice, an exhibition by the Lady Slipper Rug Hooking Guild, presented by Wyatt Heritage Properties as part of Summerside Arts Fest 2025, opens June 18 and runs through September. Open Monday–Saturday, 9 am–4:30 pm. Admission is free, and all are welcome. 205 Prince St, Summerside.
North Nook Gallery
Baskets: for ever and ever... by Jane Whitten is on view until June 26. The North Nook Gallery is a tiny art gallery space in the front window of The Guild, 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.
The Studio Gallery
The Artist’s Garden – A Retrospective of the Work of Sylvia Ridgway is on view until June 8. The summer exhibition opens June 9 with a selection of paintings by Sylvia Ridgway, P. John Burden, Maurice Bernard, and Doreen Foster, and digital art by Henry Dunsmore. Open Tuesday–Sunday (10 am–5 pm). 4 Howard Street, Victoria. studiogallery.ca
Summerside Rotary Library
Over 100 pieces of art by local artists adorn the library walls across three wheelchair-accessible levels, with an elevator for easy access. The variety of work includes original paintings, photography, handmade knits, mosaics, digital art, and more. This ongoing exhibition changes throughout the year. Call 902-436-7323 for hours of operation. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Art Love
Live painting competition at The Guild—June 7
Art Love, a live painting competition featuring local artists, will be held at The Guild in Charlottetown on June 7 at 6 pm.
Since 2021, the live painting competition at the Festival Hom’Art de Shediac has showcased the talent and creativity of artists from across the Maritimes. Each artist has just 20 minutes to create a unique painting in front of an audience. A panel of three judges determine the grand winner.
For the first time, Charlottetown is one of several stops on the ArtLove Tour. Each local winner earns a spot in the grand finale this September in Shediac, New Brunswick—along with a $500 cash prize and accommodation.
PEI artists are invited to register at shediachomart.com/en/artlove.
For tickets, visit theguildpei.com.
Plein air painting
Bedford Station Gallery & Gardens
Bedford Station Gallery & Gardens will welcome a group of plein air painters who will be onsite painting during the opening day festivities July 1 from 1:30–5:30 pm.
The Gallery represents 19 artists who call PEI home, whether full-time or seasonal. The Gardens are the creative vision of landscape designer and photographer Wayne Crouse, featuring unique sculptures that add to the visual experience.
All are welcome to participate, regardless of proficiency—just bring along any medium to work in. Arrive early to paint. Located at 96 Route 6, close to St. Peter’s Road.
Fix Your Plate by Tara Reeves
Strawberry season
The sweetest time of year is just around the corner! We’re talking about strawberry season. That wonderful period when bright red, juicy strawberries are finally ripe. It feels like a true sign that summer has arrived, doesn’t it?
Here in Prince Edward Island, strawberry season usually kicks off in late June or early July. You’ll see local farms and markets with these fresh berries, often lasting into August. This is prime time to get them at their best, full of sunshine and flavour.
Strawberries & Coconut Cream Serves 6
What’s so great about strawberries besides their amazing taste? They are doing some cool things for your body. Each berry brings vitamin C, a boost to your immune system, helping you stay healthy. They also contain antioxidants, which act like tiny protectors for your cells. And let’s not forget fibre, which helps keep your digestion running smoothly.
Incorporating them into your day is easy. Slice some onto breakfast cereal or mix them into yogurt. Blend them in a cool smoothie for a quick treat. Honestly, eating them right out of the container is a joy in itself. They make a fantastic, healthy snack. Think about a simple bowl of fresh strawberries and coconut cream after dinner. The perfect treat after a meal.
To snag the best strawberries, look for berries that are a bright, even red colour all over, right up to the green leafy cap. Avoid any with white or green patches, as these weren’t picked when fully ripe. The berries should have a nice, natural shine and look plump. Give them a gentle sniff too; ripe strawberries often have a sweet, fragrant smell. Skip any containers with bruised, mushy, or moldy berries, as one bad berry can spoil the rest quickly. Local, in-season berries usually offer the best flavour!
So, when you spot those local strawberries, don’t hesitate. Enjoy their fantastic flavour and all the goodness they offer. It’s a sweet, simple pleasure that makes summer even better.
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract For Garnish - Sliced strawberries
Directions
1. Place chilled coconut cream and vanilla bean paste in a large mixing bowl.
2. Beat until light and fluffy
3. Set cream aside or chill until ready to use.
4. Add half of the strawberries to a medium-sized bowl.
5. Sprinkle sugar over them and add the vanilla extract.
6. Mash the strawberries with a fork or potato masher, but leave some bigger pieces.
7. Stir in the remaining strawberries (the ones you didn’t mash). Let the strawberry mixture sit for a few minutes.
8. Add 1/3 of the strawberry mixture to the whipped cream and gently mix with a spatula
9. Keep the rest of the strawberry mixture aside – you’ll use it to layer in your dessert dishes.
To Serve
1. Spoon some of the strawberry mixture into six glasses or dishes.
2. Then, put a layer of the strawberry whipped cream on top.
3. Add another layer of the plain strawberry mixture.
4. Finally, add another spoonful or two of the strawberry whipped cream.
5. Top with sliced fresh strawberries.
6. Eat right away, or put them in the fridge to chill before serving.
EVERY WEDNESDAY EVERY WEDNESDAY JULY 2ND- AUG 27TH JULY 2ND- AUG 27TH 9AM TO 2PM 9AM TO 2PM
Beyond the Regalia
Beyond the Regalia is a portrait series by photographer Patricia Bourque that showcases the beauty, strength, dignity, and sacredness of women of the traditional territory of Mi’kma’ki.
See the banners installed along Queen Street in Charlottetown.
Presented by This Town is Small, this series is on view until July 2.
Learn more about Bourque at trishab223.wordpress.com or follow @ trishab223 on Instagram.
Last call on the wall
Exhibitions closing in June
Portrait series by Patricia Bourque on Queen Street in Charlottetown EARLY BUZZ
An Artist’s Garden—A Retrospective of the Work of Sylvia Ridgway
Until June 8
The Studio Gallery, Victoria
Sylvia has worked in the medium of batik for six decades. Traditional batik—the application of wax resist on cloth, then immersion in dye—is both an art and a craft developed over centuries in many parts of the world, including China, Japan, and India. However, unlike traditional batik, Sylvia has developed a style using paintbrushes—allowing the application of broad washes—and a tjanting pen, a small funnel-shaped copper pot that applies fine lines of wax to the fabric. This technique creates a more fluid, painterly quality, similar to that of watercolour. This retrospective celebrates Sylvia’s diverse and prolific output as a batik artist.
ArtSmarts
Until June 8
Eptek Art & Culture Centre, Summerside
This academic year, GénieArtsSmarts facilitated collaborative projects involving 800 students, 18 schools, and 12 local artists. This innovative initiative brought together artists and educators to enhance curriculum through artistic exploration, fostering creativity and enriching learning experiences. These exhibitions celebrate the transformative impact of integrating arts into education, highlighting the talents and perspectives of Island youth. An opening reception will be held on June 4 from 6–8 pm. This is a free event, and all are welcome.
Threads
Until June 13
Eptek Art & Culture Centre, Summerside
Threading through the Summerside Art Club’s newest exhibit—whether literally, figuratively, or transcendentally—members of PEI’s oldest art club have taken up the challenge of “Threads” using a variety of mediums, interpretations, and joyful takes on the theme. Works in oil, acrylic, fibre art, mixed media, and more are on display.
Elawika’tikne’l
Until June 28
Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild, Charlottetown
Quill
Friday, June 13th
Elawika’tikne’l—a Mi’kmaw word that serves as an invitation to see the quills used to create pieces of art—is a recent collaboration by the Epekwitk Quill Sisters: Melissa Peter-Paul, Kay Bernard, and Cheryl Simon. The three artists have created a collection rooted in Mi’kmaw cultural traditions that highlights the beauty of Mi’kmaw porcupine quillwork through their diverse styles. Presented by This Town is Small.
(L–R):
art by Cheryl Simon, Kay Bernard, and Melissa Peter-Paul
The Bookman and the Brother of Knowledge by Lori Ellis
Batik artwork by Sylvia Ridgway
SUBMITTED
Portraits by Patricia Bourque
ARTS
Artist Trading Cards
Confederation Centre Art Gallery invites artists of all ages and disciplines, professional and non-professional, to register for the 19th annual Artist Trading Cards event. Artist trading cards are miniature works of art. They can be created with any material imaginable, including paper, wool, wood, clay, and more. The main requirement is the size: cards must be the same size as modern baseball cards or 2 ½ x 3 ½ inches (6 cm x 9 cm), small enough to fit inside standard card-collector pockets, sleeves, or sheets. Artist trading cards must be self-produced. The artist’s name and contact information, as well as the card title and the edition or series number, is to be written on the back. This year’s registration deadline is July 14. People who sign up for the event must make as many cards as the number of people who have registered. Cards can be produced in editions (a limited number of the same card), series (a set of cards with a unifying theme), or as singular originals. Registration will be on a first-come, firstserved basis and is limited to 50 participants. Previous attendees are kindly asked to inform organizers if they can no longer participate in the event as a waiting list is expected. The 19th annual trading event will be held on August 14 at 7 pm in Studio 1 at Confederation Centre
of the Arts. For more information or to register, contact Monique Lafontaine by email at mlafontainem@icloud.com.
Membership with TTIS
This Town is Small has launched its 2025–26 membership year. Current members are invited to renew, and new artists are welcome to join. Visit thistownissmall.com/membership or email info@ thistownissmall.com to get started.
TTIS Call for submissions
This Town is Small (TTIS) is seeking visual and interdisciplinary artists, groups, and curators from Atlantic Canada who are interested in contributing to its 2025–26 programming. Artists are invited to submit applications that highlight their overall practice. Submitting an artist profile to TTIS is a way for artists to introduce their artistic and/or curatorial work, share ideas they’d like to explore, and showcase their unique perspective. TTIS will collaborate directly with selected artists and curators to realize their projects, provide creative development support, and identify opportunities for growth and meaningful engagement. Artist profiles are welcome from creators across all disciplines and at any stage of their artistic journey. Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis for TTIS programming, including exhibitions, events, rural projects, workshops, development opportunities, and more. Info: info@ thistownissmall.com
EXPLORE
SUMMER GALLERY OPENING
Saturday, June 7 at 7 PM - Memorial Hall
See everything the Gallery has on view this summer, then stick around for an after party in Studio 1 starting at 8:30 pm with performances by LXVNDR with DJ Alley Cat, Eric Broadbent, and Norm Strangely.
JERRY EVANS WELJESI
JUNE 7 - SEPTEMBER 28
EDWARD MITCHELL BANNISTER HIDDEN BLACKNESS
UNTIL SEPTEMBER 14
200 YEARS OF SERVICE TO ISLANDERS BENEVOLENT, IRISH, AND SOCIAL
UNTIL SEPTEMBER 14
KATHLEEN DALY AND GEORGE PEPPER THE LAND AND ITS PEOPLE
UNTIL SEPTEMBER 28
CONFEDERATIONCENTRE.COM/ARTGALLERY FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF GALLERY EVENTS
Curated by Pan Wendt
Curated by Jenelle Duval
Island
Jerry Evans, Place of Life, 2019 Lithograph on Somerset 100% rag paper, 76.2 × 55.9 cm. Courtesy of the artist.
ARTISTS & ARTISANS
Art Buds Gallery
The gallery features a gift shop and showcases locally handmade original art from over 45 Island makers and artisans. Daily drop in activities like DIY souvenirs and artist-led workshops on offer. artbuds.ca. 329 Water St, Summerside.
Art Gallery of Tony Diodati
Original works and limited edition giclee prints by Tony Diodati. Open 10 am–5 pm Monday–Saturday and 12–5 pm on Sundays in June. (902-886-3009). tonydiodati.com. 241 Paynter Rd (off Rte 20), Spring Brook.
Artisans Waterfront
Features the works of an artist-run cooperative gallery. Members offer works in all mediums – pottery, photography, paintings, hooked rugs, quilts, soaps, woodwork, and more. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the display of high quality handcrafted items and original works of art. Open daily June 14–September 30. artisanswaterfront.ca. 1 Station St, on Montague’s waterfront.
Bailey Studio Gallery
Features specialty pieces, major works, and large, traditional oil paintings by Kathy Marlene Bailey and professional calibre painting supplies. Email or call
ahead (902-962-3642, kmb@professionalart.ca). 119757 Shore Rd, Little Sands.
Bedford Station Gallery
Showcases the work of 19 local artists. Guests can stroll the gardens which have unique sculptures, created by designer and photographer Wayne Crouse. All are welcome to participate in on-site plein air painting during the opening day festivities on July 1 from 1:30–5:30 pm. Bring along any medium to work in, regardless of proficiency. Arrive early if planning to paint. 96 Rte 6, Bedford.
Birch Tree Gallery
Showcases Mi’kmaq woven baskets, painting, pottery, Island potato soap, beaded jewelry, landscape paintings, and more. Basket weaving classes offered on Tuesdays. Open daily 10 am–6 pm and Sundays 1–5 pm. birchtreegallery.ca. 8 Main St, Victoria-by-the-Sea.
Creative Rebel Studio
The studio features a boutique and gallery featuring artist Patrick Guindon’s vibrant, expressive paintings of nature and lighthouses. A number of programs are available throughout the summer, including workshops for adults, programs for kids, and open studio drop in times to make use of the studio and materials in unique ways. Open Monday–Tuesday 11 am–5 pm, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday 10 am–6
metalwork and more. Open daily 9 am–8 pm. dunesgallery.ca. 3622 Brackley Point Rd, Brackley Beach.
Ellen’s Creek Gallery
Dedicated to promoting PEI artists and producing high quality custom framing. Open weekdays 9 am–5 pm. 525 North River Rd, Charlottetown.
Galerie La Palette
Offering works from local artists, the gallery showcases paintings, prints, photography and sculptures. Open Tuesday–Sunday 11 am–4:30 pm from July 2–August 31. (902-854-3256, cooplapalette@gmail.com). Located in the yellow building at Village musical acadien. 1745 Rte 124, Abram-Village.
Gaudreau Fine Crafts Gallery
A unique collection of pottery, wood, fibre, weaving, paintings, glass and jewelry by Maritime artisans. Open Tuesday–Sunday 11 am–4 pm. (902-9632273, woodmagic@gmail.com). 11 Grand Pere Point Rd, Rte 242, South Rustico.
Island Girl Studio
Features artist Donna White’s collection of watercolours and art cards. Open Tuesdays and Saturdays 12–5 pm or by appointment. (dmwhite775@gmail.com). 65 Anderson Rd, St. Peter’s.
Island Winds
Features musically tuned, Island-made windchimes. Open daily 10 am–6 pm. islandwindcraft.com. 3827 Millvale Rd, South Granville.
J. Bergman Art Studio
Features unique, edgy and contemporary original paintings by internationally acclaimed Summerside artist Janos Bergman. Works are regularly exhibiting in Europe and PEI. Viewings available by appointment. (janosbergman917@gmail. com, 902-786-3614). bergmanartpei.ca. 123 Heron Ave, Summerside.
Jeanette Walker Jewellery
Designs custom jewelry and repurposes and redesigns heirlooms and outdated jewelry. (902-393-6376, jeanette@jeanettewalkerjewellery.com). jeanettewalkerjewellery.com.
June Ellis’s Studio
Features oil paintings, prints, notecards and bookmarks by PEI artist June Ellis. Commissions and appointments available (juneellisartist@gmail.com, 902-439-8774). juneellis.com. Rte 12, East Bideford, Ellerslie.
Karen Gallant Gallery In Rustico
Features paintings, cards, fine art reproductions and unique finds by artist Karen Gallant. Open Tuesday–Saturday 10 am–4 pm until mid-September. (902-9633999). karengallant.com. 1990 Church Rd, Rustico (former St Augustine’s Credit Union building).
Kensington Art Co-op Gallery
Artwork features an eclectic blend of over 30 local artists’ works. Host artists often paint on site. Open daily 10 am–4 pm starting June 21. (902-886-0331). 27
Commercial St, Kensington, behind the old train station (Island Stone Pub).
Knit Pickers PEI Studio
Features Canadian goods only, including wool, knitting needles, knitting and weaving accessories and wool pellets for gardening. Open Tuesday–Saturday 10 am–4 pm. knitpickerspei.com. 566 Line Rd, Rte 13, Mayfield.
Kro In The Sky Art Studio
An assortment of dichroic and seaglass jewelry, stained glass, mosaics and fine art. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10 am–5 pm. (902-213-6807). krointhesky.com. 1800 Point Prim Rd, Belfast.
McAskill’s Fine Crafts Studio
Featuring furniture and crafts, pottery, fine art, metal work, glass and giftware by PEI and Atlantic artisans. (902-5663416). mcaskillwoodworking.com. 26 Beasley Ave, Charlottetown.
Messy Crow Studio
Showcases wool artwork (felting on denim, in frames, and dimensional critters), sea glass, vintage jewelry, pottery, candles, soaps, and retro finds from over 20 Maritime artisans. Open
Tuesday–Friday 10 am–4 pm and Saturdays 10 am–1 pm. (416-523-6090, messycrowpei@gmail.com). Rte 335, St Catherine’s Rd, Souris.
Michael Stanley Pottery
Showcases pottery by Malcolm and Michael Stanley and features fine art by Michelle MacCallum, Sydney White Ceramics, Linko Pottery, Sea Clay Raku, Sticks and Stones Pottery, Moonsnail Soapworks, Joan Sutton photography, Renée Laprise prints and oracle decks, Unraveling Joy embroidery kits, Fish Shirts, Roaming Crow wood art, Sea Winds Pottery, The Quiet Potter, Yara Ceramics, and Amy’s Pots. Open daily June–September. (902-393-2339). michaelstanleypottery.com. 22 Howard St, Victoria-by-the-Sea.
Northern Watters Knitwear
Features handcrafted sweaters, shawls, stoles, ponchos, and PEI arts and crafts items. nwknitwear.com. 150 Richmond St, Charlottetown.
PEI Crafts Council
Showcases work made by 150 local artisans such as pottery, jewelry, wood, textile and quilting, glass, and fine art. Open daily 10 am–6 pm and Sundays 12–5 pm. (902-892-5152). peicraftscouncil. com. 98 Water St, Charlottetown.
PEI Fox Den
The Den features the works of over 60 local artists and artisans including pottery, apparel, candles, soaps, visual art, knitted goods, embroidery, woodwork, chocolate, tea, coffee, honey, maple syrup, music, FloaTEA treats and the home of the original PEI Fox Mug™. Open Tuesday–Sunday all summer. peifoxden.ca. 2852 1A, North Bedeque.
PhoArts Studio
Showcases photography, visual and digital art, and paintings by photographer and artist Leona Arsenault. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10 am–5 pm from July 1–August 31. (902-854-2543). 108 John Paul Rd, Abram-Village.
Silkwalker Originals Studio and Fine Crafts
Features quality Island crafted products, including hand-painted silk scarves, art and accessories by Heather Walker.
Custom orders accepted. Call ahead. (902-330-8188, heather@silkwalker. com). silkwalker.com. Seawalk Park and Boutiques, North Rustico.
Stanley Bridge Studios
Island crafts, jewelry, pottery, art, woodwork, ironwork, home and garden decor, clothing, accessories. Open daily 10 am–6 pm. (902-886-2800). 10090 Rte 6, Stanley Bridge.
The Studio Gallery
Find a selection of paintings by Sylvia Ridgway, P. John Burden, Maurice Bernard, and Doreen Foster, and digital art by Henry Dunsmore. The gallery also exhibits hand-pulled etchings/aquatints by Doreen Foster from her on-site studio, and collaborative ceramics by Emily Dunsmore and Doreen Foster. A selection of art-related gifts including fine art reproductions by Karen Gallant, art books, calendars and notecards. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10 am–5 pm. studiogallery.ca. 4 Howard St, Victoria.
Thompson’s Woodcraft
Features wood-turning by Wilfred Thompson. Open Monday to Saturday 9 am–6 pm and Sunday by appointment. (902-887-3459). thompsonswoodcraft.ca. 2979 Rte 1A, North Bedeque.
Twisted Knickers Indigo Dyeing
Features indigo dyeing and workshops. Open July–September, hours vary. (902439-0885, arlene@twisterknickers.ca). 94 Water St, Charlottetown.
GET CREATIVE
Monday Night Painting Group
The Monday Night Painting Group, led by Sophia Djuk, meets weekly at North Rustico Lions Club from 7–9 pm. Each week is a different theme. Canvas, paints and brushes are provided, but the fee is reduced for those who bring their own. 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.
Paint Club
Artists aged 16+ can bring their watercolour or acrylic projects to the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on June 2, 16, and 30 from 1–3:30 pm to paint, chat, and connect with fellow painters.
Fibre Arts Club
Fibre Arts Club runs weekly on Tuesdays at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St). 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.
Creative PEI ArtMobile
Drop into the Makerspace at the Charlottetown Library at 97 Queen St for some creative art time with the Creative PEI ArtMobile on June 4 and 18 from 10:30 am–12:30 pm. Bring a work-inprogress, or start something new with the materials provided.
Crafternoon for kids
Kids of all ages can drop by the Summerside Library (57 Central St) between 1–3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays to craft. Activities include puppet pals, bugs, exploring the senses, and an indoor carnival.
Life drawing for adults
Drop-in life drawing sessions with a nude model will be held on June 8 and 22 from 2–4 pm at the Gertrude Cotton Art Centre. All skill levels are welcome. Doors open at 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. 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.
Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild
The Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild meets on June 9 from 7–9 pm at the Benevolent Irish Society, 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown. New members and visitors are welcome. This is a scent-free meeting. Info: 902-393-3222; @Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild of PEI on FB.
Crafternoon
Crafternoon in the Makerspace at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) takes place on June 11 at 1 pm. This month, participants can create a work of art by making paper flowers. All materials are supplied. Call 902-368-4642 to pre-register.
Sewing Club
Join fellow sewing and mending enthusiasts (ages 12+) in the Charlottetown Library Makerspace (97 Queen St) on June 12 from 5–8 pm. Bring a machine and projects, start an entry-level project, or try a machine with some guidance.
PEI Modern Quilt Guild Open House
The PEI Modern Quilt Guild will hold an Open House at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on June 14 from 11 am–3 pm. Learn about modern quilting techniques with advice from Guild members, design a quilt block for a community wall quilt, or try English paper piecing. Everyone is welcome.
Crafting and social hour
Create a beach-inspired sign using sticks, shells, and more at a crafting and social hour on June 16 at 6:30 pm and June 18 at 2 pm at the Summerside Library (57 Central St). Call 902-436-7323 to register.
Stratford Poppy Project
Drop into the Makerspace at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St)
to knit or crochet poppies on June 21 from 10 am–12 pm. Help create the Poppy Drape that will be unveiled at the Stratford Town Hall on November 11. All supplies will be provided. Someone will be available to teach beginners.
Beaded wind chime
Teens are invited to create a window wind chime at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on June 22 at 2 pm.
Using the Makerspace
People aged 16+ are invited to the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on June 24 at 1 pm or June 25 at 6 pm for a brief orientation on how to register to use the Makerspace for creative projects outside regular hours.
Halftone & Haven
watercolour painting
Youth aged 13+ are invited to join the teen organization Halftone & Haven at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) for a watercolour paint session on June 26 at 2 pm. Student painters will help guide participants to create art that will be collected and used to raise money for local shelters. Registration is required. Materials are provided.
PEI Modern Quilt Guild
The PEI Modern Quilt Guild will meet on June 26 from 7–9 pm at the PEI Farm Centre, 420 University Ave, Charlottetown. New members and visitors are welcome. This is a scent-free meeting. Info: 902-393-3222; @Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild of PEI on FB.
Eptek workshops
Eptek Art & Culture Centre will offer a variety of workshops this summer, including: Sea Glass & Stained Glass (two-day) and Stained Glass Flower “Make It and Take It” (one-day) with Lynne Provance in July, August, and September; Broom Making with Baba’s Brooms on July 15; Making & Adapting Patterns from Original Garments with Arnold Smith on July 22; and Funky Starfish Rug Hooking with Periwinkle Laine on July 29. For details, fees, and to register, call 902-888-8373 or visit @ EptekCentre on Facebook and IG. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
SCREEN
Brackley Drive-In Theatre
PEI’s only drive-in theatre is open for the season. To find out what’s playing, visit drivein.ca or call 902-672-3333. Located 15 minutes outside of Charlottetown at Rte 15, Brackley Beach.
Tivoli Cinema
Tivoli Cinema screens a variety of new and old releases. Upcoming screenings include: Friendship (May 30–June 5); Gazer (June 6–12); Double Feature: Bound/Love Lies Bleeding (6); The Red Shoes (7); Dogma (8); A Knight’s War (11–12); Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (13); Clown in a Cornfield (13–17); Road House (14); Cruising (14); Cool Hand Luke (15); Rear Window (18); Diabolique (19); Double Feature: Top Gun/Days of Thunder (20); The People’s Joker (21); Batman Begins (21–22); Allen Sunshine (22–26); Hollywood Suite Presents: Almost Famous (24); @canada.gov.ca Live! (27); Pulp Fiction (28); Stealing Pulp Fiction (28–July 3). For showtimes, updates and tickets visit tivolicinema.com. 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Afternoon movie
Visit the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) for an afternoon movie on June 3 at 1 pm. This month’s screening is The Fifth Element (PG13) (1997).
Anime Club (18+)
Watch and discuss two episodes of anime at the Charlottetown Library(97 Queen St) on June 10 at 6 pm. Titles change monthly and are chosen at the start of every meeting.
Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story
Adult members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community can drop in to PEERS Alliance headquarters, (250B Queen St, Charlottetown) on June 19 at 6 pm for a free screening of Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story. Directed by Darrin Hagen, the documentary tells the true story of one man’s fight for equality and the landmark Supreme Court decision that changed Canada forever. Presented by PEERS Alliance in partnership with the Edmonton Community Foundation
and the Edmonton Queer History Project, this screening celebrates the resilience and contributions of the local 2SLGBTQIA+ community and creates space for meaningful conversations about justice and inclusion. Info: peersalliance.ca
Charlottetown Film Festival
The Charlottetown Film Festival (ChFF) returns from October 15–19. This year, ChFF is expanding beyond film to include television, stand-up comedy, dedicated French-language programming, and more opportunities for local screenwriters. Festival submissions are open at charlottetownfilmfest.com. ChFF is partnering with the PEI Writers’ Guild on the Page to Pitch Program, which supports Island-based writers entering the film and television industry. The final phase of the program will take place at the festival, with a live pitch event where selected writers present their original concepts to a panel of industry professionals. At least one selected participant will receive a development deal with an established Canadian production company. Applications for the Page to Pitch Program are now open at peiwritersguild.com.
EARLY BUZZ DEADLINE
Friday, June 13th
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 check the Venue Rental on our website and send us an email! 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 - $30.00
Network
June 2–3
Drama. 18A, Severe sex and nudity, mild violence. Dir: Sidney Lumet, US, 1976, 121 min. Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Peter Finch.
“I’m mad as hell and I’m not gonna take it anymore!”
A television network cynically exploits a deranged former anchor’s ravings and revelations about mass media for its own profit, but finds that his message may be difficult to control.
The Ballad of Wallis Island
June 4—8
Comedy, Drama. PG. Some language and smoking. Dir: James Griffiths, UK, 2025, 100 min. Tom Basden, Tim Key, Carey Mulligan.
“Writer-actors Tim Key and Tom Basden’s three-hander, set on a remote British isle, have delivered a rare blend of unkempt charm, emotional precision and soulful folk music… Charles, a jovial but lonely lottery winner has retreated to this remote idyll to mourn his wife and wear out the LPs of his favourite folk duo, McGwyer Mortimer. Once the ‘it’ couple on the folk music scene, Herb McGwyer and Nell Mortimer have long since split up, romantically and musically, but for Charles, their music is both the sound of happier times and the perfect articulation of his sadness. Charles offers them a suitcase of cash in return for a reunion gig on his island. Only, he sold it to them both as a solo gig. It’s a funny, smart premise that pays off in myriad ways… There’s something here in the relationship between art and money… but the story really comes alive when Mulligan’s Nell arrives with her amiable American husband in tow and forces Herb to finally face his past… Anyone who’s held a candle to a past love when they’ve long since moved on will pour one out for the salty singer-songwriter, who deals with his heartache in all the worst ways… This musical comedy really sings when it’s exploring the vagaries of the human heart. A bracing, windswept delight.” —Phil de Semlyen, Time Out (UK)
Clown in a Cornfield
June 9—13
Horror. 14A. Some language and bloody violence. Dir: Eli Craig, US, 2025, 96 min. Katie Douglas, Aaron Abrams, Carson MacCormac.
“If nothing else, Clown in a Cornfield delivers on everything hinted at in its title. There is a clown, Frendo, the living incarnation of a beloved small-town corporate mascot. This clown spends tons of time in cornfields, and not because the business he’s the face of happens to make corn syrup, but also because that’s where many of the community’s most troublesome teenagers tend to frolic. Frendo doesn’t take kindly to these pesky kids doing what they shouldn’t in his domain. It makes him downright angry, even homicidal. And if a few teens go missing, never to be seen again? That’s a mystery no one in town seems keen to solve… It also is built on a firm foundation of prescient social and political commentary that’s surprisingly intelligent… [Director] Craig keeps things fast and loose, and the 96-minute running time ensures the story never overstays its welcome… Dr. Glenn Maybrook and his high school senior daughter Quinn move to the close-knit community of Kettle Springs for a fresh start. Courtesy of a cantankerous teacher with a vindictively short fuse who stuffs her into detention minutes into her first class, the teenager quickly falls in with what the town Sheriff unironically likes to refer to as “the wrong crowd.”... What follows from there is an extreme night of terror, as someone (or something) has suited themselves up as Frendo… There are several terrific kills, Craig staging one with a chainsaw that almost rivals his inspired woodchipper mutilation from Tucker & Dale vs. Evil. Most of the laughs are genuine, and, even amidst all of the gruesome excess, the emotions fueling the drama are suitably grounded.” —Sara Michelle Fetters, Moviefreak.com
Bonjour Tristesse
June 13–17
Romance, Drama. PG. Dir: Durga ChewBose, Canada/Germany, 2025, 110 min. Chloë Sevigny, Lily McInerny, Claes Bang. In English and French with English subtitles.
“Bonjour Tristesse works best as a sustained mood, as an evocation of long summer days that might not actually exist outside films and fashion magazine photo shoots. The studied ennui by the sea is oh-so French… Luxuriate in the sun-dappled splendor of a summer afternoon in the south of France. That’s where 18-year-old Cécile is on holiday with her widower father, Raymond, and his latest, muchyounger girlfriend, Elsa. Cécile has a playmate of her own for the season, the handsome Cyril with whom we see her kissing and lazing
about on a sailboat… The deep blue of the water, the gentle glow of the late-afternoon sunlight. You can practically feel the warmth of the limestone and the gentle breeze through the trees. Playing solitaire, listening to records, dozing while reading in a lounge chair on the patio: there’s a timeless quality to these pastimes, and only the occasional appearance of an iPhone indicates that this version of the story takes place today… The film is always gorgeous to look at, as the daily doings at this French Riviera villa are rich with an impeccable style. The retro-inspired clothes, cars and interiors suggest a classic cool; the costume design is especially crucial in transporting us to this luxurious world. It’s a nice place to visit, but you wouldn’t want to live there. (Oh, who are we kidding, of course you would.)” —Christy Lemire, Rogerebert.com
Craft Along Movie Matinee: You’ve Got Mail
June 14, 2 pm
Comedy, Drama. PG. Dir: Nora Ephron, US, 1998, 119 mins. Meg Ryan, Tom Hanks, Parker Posey.
Bring your knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross stitch, or other handicrafts, plus your crafty friends for a cozy afternoon at the movies. Lights will be dim so you can see the screen and your skeins!
About The Film: Book superstore magnate Joe Fox and independent bookshop owner Kathleen Kelly fall in love in the anonymity of the Internet, both blissfully unaware that he’s trying to put her out of business.
City Cinema and Roving Picture Shows present:
Son of Godzilla
June 15, 4:30 pm
Sci-fi, Fantasy. PG. Dir: Jun Fukuda, Japan, 1967, 86 min. In Japanese with English subtitles.
this 1967
from the
not only to save Minilla, a baby kaiju, but also to adopt him and teach him to become a powerful monster, just as a real father would. Come celebrate Father’s Day with one of the most unusual and touching father-son relationships in cinema history.
Parasite
June 18–19
Drama, Crime. 14A, violence, moderate language and nudity. Dir: Bong Joon
In
entry in the Godzilla series, Godzilla emerges
ocean
Ho, South Korea, 2019, 132 min. Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong. In Korean and English with English subtitles.
Winner - Best Picture at the 2019 Academy Awards.
Greed and class discrimination threaten the newly-formed symbiotic relationship between the wealthy Park family and the destitute Kim clan.
City Cinema and Roving Picture Shows present:
Häxan: Witchcraft Through the Ages
June 20, 7 pm, $15
Dir: Benjamin Christensen, Sweden, 1922, 105 mins.
Presented with live musicians performing the soundtrack.
Danish actor/director Benjamin Christensen traces the historical roots and superstitions surrounding witchcraft from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. This unique silent film masterpiece is presented as part of the ciné-concert series mixing live music and cinema co-hosted by Roving Picture Shows and Island Jazz.
Pavements
June 21–26
Comedy/Drama/Documentary. Dir: Alex Ross Perry, US, 2025, 128 min. Stephen Malmus, Jason Schwartzman, Joe Keery.
“Alex Ross Perry’s slippery experimental mockumentary Pavements. A film about the 1990s slacker band… is as gleefully idiosyncratic and as suspicious of mainstream success as the band and its fans. Though the film doesn’t totally embrace an easy rise and fall structure, or even a jukebox format that feeds viewers the songs they love along with the stories behind them, it doesn’t disavow those formats either. Instead, Pavements recalls the satirical spirit of Walk Hard: The
Dewey Cox Story. It’s a film that takes these cliches and turns them inside out, lampoons them, and then reimagines them with such an unabashedly snarky tone, there’s never a second that feels forced, contrived, or sophomoric… As these components coalesce, oftentimes through split screens, aspect ratio changes and archival footage, it’s worth remembering the plurality of the film’s title... Because we’re witnessing the contradictions within the band’s artistic desires. They abhorred selling out. But appeared in an ad for Apple… And then, of course, there are the songs. While this isn’t your prototypical ‘play the hits’ documentary, that doesn’t mean a plethora of Pavement songs from across their career don’t take center stage. Pavements exemplifies all the group represents to its loyal listeners, and why, as the film wants to call them, they are ‘the world’s most important and influential band.’ ” —Robert Daniels, Rogerebert.com
So Bad it’s Good:
The Room
June 27, 7 pm, $15
Drama, Comedy. 14A, sexuality, language. Dir: Tommy Wiseau, US, 2003, 99 min. Tommy Wiseau, Juliette Danielle, Greg Sestro.
Interactive Screening!
“Oh, hi Mark!”
Join us at the City Cinema for a very special screening of one of the best experiences you can have in a darkened theatre: Tommy Wiseau‘s epic, pop-culture masterpiece The Room. A marvel of modern cinema, Tommy Wiseau‘s The Room is so powerful that it will, literally, “tear you apart.” (Or, maybe just your brain. And occasionally your eyeballs.) In the pantheon of you-gotta-see-it-to-believe-it, best-worst movies, it’s quite possible that nothing tops The Room. It’s the Citizen Kane of bad movies! And the best way to experience this “masterpiece” is in the dark, on the big screen, and with a packed audience of confused (and enthused!) lovers of director Wiseau’s bizarre cinematic oddity that has morphed into a pop-culture phenomenon. So Bad, it’s Good is a monthly interactive movie game series that brings a twist to the movie-going experience. With unique prompts to encourage participation, it promises to be a wild and fun night at the movies!
Pride PEI presents Queer shorts
June 28, 2 pm
Admission by donation Join Pride PEI for a series of all age short films curated by LACUNA.
Titane
June 28, 7 pm
Drama, Thriller. 18A, strong violence, disturbing scenes, graphic nudity. Dir: Julia Ducournau, US, 2021, 108 min. Vincent Lindon, Agathe Rousselle, Garance Marillier.
A woman with a titanium plate fitted in her head and murderous intent on her mind embarks on a bizarre journey of identity and unconditional love when she’s forced to go on the run.
Classic of the month:
Jaws
June 29–30
Drama, Thriller. 14A, frightening scenes, severe violence. Dir: Steven Spielberg, US, 1975, 124 min. Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss
When a young woman is killed by a shark while skinny-dipping near the New England tourist town of Amity Island, police chief Martin Brody wants to close the beaches, but mayor Larry Vaughn overrules him, fearing that the loss of tourist revenue will cripple the town. Ichthyologist Matt Hooper and grizzled ship captain Quint offer to help Brody capture the killer beast, and the trio engage in an epic battle of man vs. nature. Steven Speilberg’s summer masterpiece is widely regarded as the scariest film of all time. See it the way it was meant to be seen - on the big screen!
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
MAY
Ballad of Wallis Island
Ballad of Wallis Island
Ballad of Wallis Island
Ballad of Wallis Island
Ballad of Wallis Island
Ballad of Wallis Island
Ballad of Wallis Island Clown in a Cornfield Clown in a Cornfield Clown in a Cornfield Clown in a Cornfield
Bonjour Tristesse Clown in a Cornfield
You’ve Got Mail
Bonjour Tristesse Son of Godzilla
Bonjour Tristesse
Bonjour Tristesse
Bonjour Tristesse Parasite
Parasite
Haxan
Pavements
Pavements
Pavements
Pavements
Pavements
Pavements
Pavements
The Room Pride Shorts
Titane Jaws
Jaws Jaws
FOOD & DRINK
Roast beef takeout dinner
Central Queens United in Hunter River (19848 Route 2) is holding its annual take-out roast beef supper on June 7. The meal includes hot roast beef with all the trimmings and dessert. Pick-up times are 3:30 pm, 4:30 pm, and 5:30 pm. Tickets will be collected at diners’ vehicles, and meals delivered to their cars in the church parking lot. Free for children five and under. Order tickets in advance by calling 902-964-2882 or 902-621-0669.
Lobster sale
The Stratford and Area Lions Club is selling freshly cooked market lobster, delivered by local fishermen and prepared on-site at the Club (110 Mason Rd, Stratford). Sales run until June 14: Thursdays (1–5 pm), Fridays (9 am–5 pm), and Saturdays (9 am until sold out). Profits support the QEH, IWK, and a local school bursary.
Soup take-out and Book & Bake Sale
A Heat’N Eat Soup Take-Out Sale will be held at St. James Presbyterian on June 14 from 9 am–12 noon. Soup will be available in single servings or one-litre portions, with options including golden harvest, corn & ham chowder, and corn chowder. Each serving includes a roll and butter. Advance orders are encouraged and can be placed at auctria.events/kirksouptakeout2025 or by calling 902-8922839. A Book & Bake Sale will take place at the same time and location, offering baked goods and gently-used books. 35 Fitzroy Street, Charlottetown.
Canoe Cove Rhubarb Social
A rhubarb social hosted by the Canoe Cove Women’s Institute will take place at the historic Canoe Cove School (1066 Canoe Cove Rd) on June 18 from 6–8 pm. Join for dessert and sample a variety of homemade rhubarb pies, cakes, cookies,
squares, and more. All proceeds will go toward the Women’s Institute charitable projects for the PEI community.
Old-Fashioned Canada Day Picnic
The Wood Islands Women’s Institute is hosting an old-fashioned family picnic on the grounds of the historic Wood Islands Schoolhouse (822 Route 1) on July 1 from 1–3 pm in celebration of Canada Day. This free community event will include food, entertainment, games and prizes, and a special cake-cutting ceremony.
17th Annual Village Feast
The 17th Annual Village Feast takes place from 3–6 pm on July 6 at the Souris Regional School grounds. This outdoor grilling event—led by Chef Michael Smith, The Inn at Bay Fortune Brigade, friends, and community volunteers— features entertainment, Island chowder, steak, lobster, Inn greens, fresh bread, strawberry rhubarb shortcake, and more. The goal is to feed 500 people this July. Proceeds support Farmers Helping Farmers (Kenya Cook Houses), the PEI School Lunch Program, Souris Food Bank & Community Fridge, Souris School Breakfast Program, and Coats for Kids. To volunteer, sponsor, or buy tickets, visit villagefeast.ca.
Kings Playhouse High Tea
Kings Playhouse is offering the timeless tradition of high tea every Monday from 2–4 pm, beginning July 7 through August 25. Enjoy a selection of sweets and savoury treats, including homemade preserves and freshly baked goods served with clotted cream. Tickets are available at 1-888-346-5666. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown. Info: kingsplayhouse.com
Ice Cream & Strawberry Social
The Friends of Seacow Head Lighthouse Inc will host a community ice cream and strawberry social at Seacow Head Lighthouse on July 13 from 1–3 pm. Tickets to climb to the top of the historic lighthouse will be available and the Lighthouse Café will be open from 10 am–6 pm. Everyone welcome. 198 Lighthouse Rd, Fernwood. Info: seacowheadlighthouse.com
Route 15, Brackley Beach, PEI
15min. from Charlottetown
Island Tides
Yoga & Wellness Festival returns for fifth year
The fifth annual Island Tides Yoga & Wellness Festival, presented by Discover Charlottetown, returns June 19–22 with a fresh mix of movement, mindfulness, and maritime charm in the heart of Prince Edward Island.
The festival continues to expand with open-air massage sessions, outdoor spin and sculpt classes, and certified yoga teacher training. This year also features a partner event with PEI Brewing Company: Bring On the Joy with comedian Jessica Holmes on June 19. Known for blending humour and heart, Jessica will deliver an uplifting keynote that celebrates mental wellness, purpose, and the healing power of laughter.
From SUP Yoga and the colourful 5K Rainbow Run, to guided meditations, free outdoor classes, and the
ever-popular mobile silent disco, the weekend is full of feel-good experiences for all levels. Whether attendees are lifelong yogis or simply looking to reset, Island Tides offers a welcoming space to unwind and reconnect.
The festival takes place in beautiful locations across downtown Charlottetown—from waterside patios and harbourfront parks to cozy studios and green spaces—and is crafted in collaboration with local instructors, studios, and wellness leaders who bring energy and heart to every session.
Tickets are on sale now. Stay at participating accommodations and save on select event registration. Islanders are encouraged to book a local getaway for the ultimate wellness reset. Visit islandtidesfestival.com to browse the full schedule.
Mawio’mi
Annual Abegweit First Nation event in Scotchfort—June 7 & 8
Abegweit First Nation is hosting its annual Mawio’mi from June 7–8 in Scotchfort. The Mawio’mi is a time to celebrate rich culture, honour traditions, and strengthen community. Attendees experience vibrant dances, powerful drumming, delicious food, and meaningful connections— creating unforgettable moments. All are welcome to attend. Visit abegweit.ca or follow @ abegweitfirstnation on social media to learn more.
Best in chow
Dreadnaught Eatery’s “The Leroy” wins PEI Burger Love
Dreadnaught Eatery in Morell has emerged victorious with its burger creation, “The Leroy,” winning the title of “Most Loved Burger” by public vote in the PEI Burger Love 2025 fundraising campaign.
For the campaign, each participating restaurant donated $1 from every burger sold to Anderson House. This year $113,474 was donated to Anderson House, the largest amount raised in a single campaign to date.
Owners Derek and Natasha Perry have generously offered to continue donating $1 from every Leroy burger sold for the rest of the year.
With these funds, Anderson House will be able to continue and expand its many community supports, including emergency shelter, outreach, and support services for Islanders and children who need safety from violence in their lives. Info: fvps.ca
READERS/ WRITERS
Writers’ Social
The PEI Writers’ Guild (PEIWG) believes that one of the best things for a writer is to be around other writers. That’s why it is launching a new monthly Writers’ Social in Charlottetown (with plans to expand). This free to attend, drop-in gathering is for writers of all genres and backgrounds to connect with one another, share and build ideas, and help PEIWG further develop its writing community. The Writers’ Social will take place at bar1911 in Charlottetown on the second Saturday of every month at 1 pm. Info: peiwritersguild.com
Writing Group
A creative writing group meets at bar1911 (113 Longworth Ave, Charlottetown) on the third Saturday of every month at 10 am. The group is for folks who are looking for a consistent community of writers to share their work and receive constructive feedback on their writing. Hosted by The PEI Writers’ Guild (PEIWG), the aim is to create a safe space for local and likeminded writers to share, read, workshop, and develop their writing skills in a supportive environment. Info: peiwritersguild.com
Writers’ Open Mic
The PEI Writer’s Guild hosts an open mic on the fourth Thursday of every month at the Gallery Coffee House and Bistro at 7 pm. Each month, a crowd of writers, readers, and keen ears come together to experience a one-of-a-kind evening filled with nothing but support for the courageous folks who share their writing gifts. Email openmic@peiwritersguild.com to sign up to read. 82 Great George St, Charlottetown.
TD Summer Reading Club
Kids are invited to the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on June 27 at 10:30 am for the TD Summer Reading launch party. There will be games, crafts, activities, and more.
An evening of poetry
Three Maritime poets at Bookmark—June 3
Bookmark, Charlottetown’s independent bookstore, will host an evening of poetry on June 3 at 7 pm, featuring Maritime poets Cory Lavender, Jessica Hiemstra, and Nick Thran.
The larger-than-life characters and stories that tumble out of Cory Lavender’s Come One Thing Another assert the experiences of generations of Lavenders and Roys as a kind of rural epic, transposing ordinary occurrences into the ageless framework of myth and its preoccupation with shifting identities and values and the persistent transformations of people and places. Colloquial, humourous, exuberant, shot through with reverie, these poems are carefully crafted love songs for a vibrant heritage.
Lavender is a poet of African Nova Scotian and European descent living in Mi’kma’ki. His work has appeared in journals such as Grain, Prairie Fire, Riddle Fence, and The Fiddlehead, and in Watch Your Head: Writers and Artists Respond to the Climate Crisis.
Reflecting on a dual upbringing in two villages, Bobcaygeon (Canada/Turtle Island) and Badela (Sierra Leone), Jessica Hiemstra’s new collection of poems delves into her relationship with home. In Blood Root, she interrogates questions of legacy, land, belonging, and the breathtaking intimacy of death. One moment tender, the next moment dark, hard, and
raw, Blood Root blends diary entries, drawings, and lyricism to hold up a polished mirror to colonialism and its echoing impact.
Hiemstra is an award-winning artist, writer, and designer. Her writing has appeared in chapbooks, essay collections, journals, and in three full-length poetry collections that she also illustrated: The Holy Nothing, Self Portrait without a Bicycle, and Apologetic for Joy.
The poems in Nick Thran’s Existing Music both celebrate and interrogate the idea of the “sad song.” The lyrical narrative mixes autobiographical poems with fantasies about the speaker’s favourite musicians—from the long gaps between one artist’s records, and grief over another’s suicide, to the marvelling at another’s ability to write “beautiful songs about potatoes.” The collection considers the sad song as a collaboration within communities: whether at the bookstore, within a family or between two poets who write in different languages.
Thran’s books include the mixedgenre collection If It Gets Quiet Later On, I Will Make a Display and three previous collections of poems. His poems have been anthologized in Best Canadian Poetry and The Next Wave: An Anthology of 21st Century Canadian Poetry.
(L–R): Nick Thran, Jessica Hiemstra and Cory Lavender
A gift of Island Poetry
IT’S JUNE
for Linda and Jim
It’s June. The grackles have found the honeysuckle vine, just as, once again, the mid-day tide meets the low-lying land. Barley field entwines with pasture at the hedge-row verge— where a great flowering is underway.
A surge of greenery ripples toward the shore, undoes its boundaries beneath the herring-bone sky. Everywhere, one thing converges with another, even the birch tree, rooted as a column, reaches out— leafing for itself and for its other. When dew falls, each blade of grass accepts its kiss, for there is nothing to withstand, nothing amiss. Remember the summer nights when the screen door slammed against its jamb? All that coming and going echoes through the yard, beyond the open gate. Even the sun, when it moves aside, allows agreeable light. There is no singularity here. The stars are not alone. They congregate. They are sidling up each to each, while their light, too, is a loving reach like a million hands taking hold of all things near and far.
—Brent MacLaine
Brent MacLaine is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of English at UPEI and the author of six volumes of poetry, most recently, A Skeptic in Springtime
Each month Bren Simmers selects a poem by an Island poet for The Buzz
PEI BOOK LAUNCHES
Kate MacQuarrie book launch
Kate MacQuarrie’s Wild Foods of Prince Edward Island will be released by Acorn Press in June. All are welcome to attend the book launch on June 20 from 5–7:30 pm at Beaconsfield’s Carriage House in Charlottetown.
Linda Stewart book launch
All are welcome to attend the book launch of Place of Miracles by PEI author Linda Stewart on June 8 from 2–4 pm at Plough the Waves Hall, Wood Islands Market, 10356 Shore Road, Wood Islands.
Judith Graves book launch
Acorn Press is hosting a book launch for The Sandcastle that Jack Built, written by Judith Graves and illustrated by Maurice Bernard, will be held at Lefurgey Cultural Centre on June 10 from 1–2 pm. All are welcome to attend. 205 Prince St, Summerside.
WORD CLUBS
PEIWG Poetry Club
The Poetry Club meets at 10 am on the first Saturday of every month at bar1911 in Charlottetown (113 Longworth Ave). This club is for folks who love poetry and it has two goals: to discuss poetry written by other poets that members love; and to share and discuss one piece of original poetry, if a member feels like sharing. This program is for members of the PEI Writers’ Guild. To become a member, visit peiwritersguild.com/join.
Queer Poetry Club
The Queer Poetry Club is a chance for members of the Queer community to gather on the first Saturday of each month at the PEI Transgender Network (PEITN), from 2–4 pm, to write, read, share, and listen to poetry in a welcoming space. Upcoming meetings are on June 7 and July 5. Snacks and materials are provided, and no previous poetry experience is required. The PEITN office is located in Room 505 of the BDC Building, 119 Kent St, Charlottetown. Email elena.deagle@proton.me for more info or with any questions.
Patsy Dingwall book launch
Bookmark, Charlottetown’s locally owned independent bookshop, is partnering with the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre for the book launch of Freda the Fry by Patsy Dingwall on June 14 at 2 pm. Join the story time in the Children’s Room, meet Patsy, and participate in some potato-themed colouring activities. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Lynn MacNeill book
launch and signing
Pownal Street Press is hosting a book launch and signing event to celebrate the release of Gold Cup Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Gender-Based Violence by Lynn MacNeill. The event will be held on June 22 from 4–7 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. All are welcome to attend.
Georges Arsenault book launch events
All are welcome to attend the book launch events for L’Acadie de l’Île-duPrince-Édouard / The Acadians of Prince Edward Island by Georges Arsenault. The first event will take place on July 3 at 7 pm at the Acadian Museum in Miscouche, with a second event scheduled for July 4 at 6:30 pm at Le Carrefour in Charlottetown.
Afternoon Book Club
The Afternoon Book Club will meet at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on June 16 at 1 pm. Pick up this month’s book at the circulation desk.
Book Lovers Book Club
The Book Lovers Book Club will meet at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on June 17 at 6 pm for an informal, conversation-style gathering. Participants can chat about what they’re currently reading, share old favourites, offer recommendations, and celebrate their love of reading with fellow bibliophiles. There is no assigned reading, no pressure, and no registration required.
Summerside Book Club
Summerside Book Club members meet 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 circulation desk. The next meeting is June 28 at 2 pm at the Summerside Library (57 Central St).
Island poet Julie Bull will host an Erotic Poetry Workshop at Upstreet Craft Brewing on June 14 from 2–4 pm. For ticket info visit juliebull.net. 41 Allen St, Charlottetown.
PEI BOOKS
Wild Foods of Prince Edward Island
Kate MacQuarrie
Kate MacQuarrie’s Wild Foods of Prince Edward Island will be released by Acorn Press in June. All are welcome to attend the book launch on June 20 at 5 pm at Beaconsfield’s Carriage House in Charlottetown.
Wild food is everywhere.
PEI is famous for potatoes and seafood, but the forests, meadows, marshes, and shores are home to hundreds of species of edible plants and fungi. Of course, edible and palatable are not the same and award-winning biologist and forager Kate MacQuarrie knows the difference.
This book highlights 30 of her favourite wild foods, representing all seasons and habitats. She explains how, when, and where to harvest them—and shares some of her personal recipes, too.
Foraging can be elevated from the basic “can I eat this?” to a tool that helps people see plants, fungi, and the world around them in new ways. Each species in this book comes with fascinating, little-known information to pique curiosity. From the luminescent flowers of Evening Primrose to the insect-repelling properties of Pineapple Weed, readers will learn something new, fun, and interesting.
MacQuarrie has been eating wild foods, tracking wild animals, and interpreting the story this land tells about itself for more than 30 years. She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in biology, has researched PEI’s upland hardwood forests and coastal sand dunes, found plants not previously known to exist on the Island, and published papers in national and international peer-reviewed journals.
She also runs PEI Untamed, a business dedicated to helping people reconnect with the natural world. Nearly 1000 people attend her in-person programs annually and thousands more follow her on social media.
Gold Cup Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Gender-Based Violence
Lynn MacNeill
Pownal Street Press has released Gold Cup Girl: A Memoir of Surviving GenderBased Violence by Lynn MacNeill. All are welcome to attend the book launch and signing event on June 22 from 4–7 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown.
When Lynn MacNeill first shared her story of gender-based violence, it rallied a community. The first Circle of Safety & Support process to protect victims from harm formed around Lynn. Now, she shares her extraordinary story of survival. Gold Cup Girl is the story of the heartbreak of love, loss, and grief—and a celebration of the power to overcome. Set in and around the Charlottetown Driving Park when harness racing was king, the memoir describes growing up in a horse-racing family where women’s proudest role is to wear the silks of a Gold Cup and Saucer Girl.
Through trauma in her teens that included the loss of both her parents, Lynn struggles to recreate a loving family of her own in the face of violence and heartaches. Protecting her children as she remains vigilant against threats and the predators around her, Lynn must reckon with a justice system that can’t support her enough when terrible things happen—or prevent worse things from happening. Gold
Cup Girl illustrates the healing power of friendship, commitment, and trust to empower a survivor—and reveals the birth of the Circles of Safety & Support model, an approach that represents a paradigm shift in the landscape of gender-based violence. justiceoptions.ca/safetycircles
Place of Miracles
Linda Stewart
Published by Acorn Press, Place of Miracles by PEI author Linda Stewart will launch on June 8. All are welcome to attend the book launch from 2–4 pm at Plough the Waves Hall, Wood Islands Market (10356 Shore Road, Wood Islands).
Iris is a pastoral hamlet in PEI, full of people doing their best to live good lives. These folks help each other out— raising barns, children, and money whenever anyone’s in need. People have found home there: Jon, a professor who took a sabbatical in Iris to heal from his terrible childhood, is now a full-fledged community member, a husband and farmer. Jimmy, formerly a violent alcoholic, has found peace in the church and turned his life around completely. Idyllic Iris really is a place of miracles for so many, a place that feels like it’s from another time.
But it’s not another time. It’s 1967 now, and just when things seem settled, the outside world is asserting itself in Iris. Long-haired, far-out Dan rolls into town in what can only be described as a hippie van. His borrowed cabin is a mess, he doesn’t seem to have any occupation, he blasts horrible music, and is always surrounded by clouds of odd-smelling smoke.
Is there any room for Dan in this little community? Can Jon, Jimmy, and everyone else channel Iris magic one more time? Or has this place of miracles finally met its match?
This uplifting, heartfelt sequel to Stewart’s Beautiful Sadness brings readers back to the turmoil of the late
1960s, when old ways were forced to meet new—and sometimes found more common ground than anyone expected.
The Sandcastle that Jack Built
Judith Graves Illustrated by Maurice Bernard
is
a book launch
that
and illustrated
will be held at Lefurgey Cultural Centre in Summerside on June 10 from 1–2 pm. All are welcome to attend.
At once familiar and fresh, The Sandcastle that Jack Built is a lyrical and playful version of the traditional nursery rhyme. In this updated classic, Judith Graves’s text is perfectly accompanied by rich, vivid illustrations by Maurice Bernard.
On this fine day, we’re at the beach, and the house that Jack builds, step by step, is a sandcastle. But while the sandcastle grows, a storm draws closer and closer, and finally, a wave swamps Jack’s creation. Luckily, the best thing about sandcastles is that you can always build a better one tomorrow.
Graves is an adult fiction writer, screenwriter, and illustrator who lives in Summerside, PEI. A firm believer that fiction can be action-packed, snarky, and yet hit the right emotional notes, she writes stories with attitude.
Bernard is a Summerside, PEI artist who works mainly in oils and chalk pastels. His art captures the beauty and grace of the Island, the innocence of children, and the warmth of families. He is also an art teacher and has earned acclaim for his commissioned portraits.
Freda the Fry
Patsy Dingwell
Patsy Dingwell’s new children’s book Freda the Fry was released in May via Acorn Press.
In Freda the Fry, when Ivy picks up her favourite treat she is in for a big surprise. A golden fry comes to life and insists on telling Ivy how she came to be. Ivy listens with amazement as
Acorn Press
hosting
for The Sandcastle
Jack Built, written by Judith Graves
by Maurice Bernard,
Freda shares her magical journey from being a seed potato in her Grampy’s warehouse to a beautiful talking fry on her dinner plate.
A fun tribute to fries and one of PEI’s major food exports, this endearing story will appeal to fry lovers, young readers, educators, and parents. The twist at the end is simply delicious and handled with a light touch that will earn more laughs than tears.
Dingwell lives with her husband Rodney on their family farm in Marie, PEI. When she is not reading, writing or travelling, she likes to help with the potato harvest. It was during this time when Freda the Fry came to be. Realizing that many are now disconnected from farming practices, she could not resist creating the story of how potatoes become fries.
As a mom, grandmother and retired education assistant, Patsy would love to get the story of PEI potatoes into the hands of children who do not have a chance for first-hand farming experiences. This is her second book.
Bookmark in Charlottetown is partnering with the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre for the book launch on June 14 at 2 pm. Join the story time in the Children’s Room, meet Patsy, and participate in some potato-themed colouring activities.
They Can’t Take the Kids:
The Mooney/McCarthy/ Gillan Legacy
Frank Gillan
PEI author Frank Gillan launched his book They Can’t Take the Kids: The Mooney/McCarthy/Gillan Legacy in May.
This story of two remarkable widows, left with young children in harsh times, is also about their Irish ancestors, who over several generations passed on qualities that enabled the two women to endure.
The widows are Gillan’s grandmother, Jennie Mooney McCarthy of Morell Rear (now Green Meadows), and his mother, Marion McCarthy Gillan of Charlottetown.
Their story begins in Ireland in the 1820s, when many Irish Catholics, including the McCarthy and Mooney families, left their homeland because of
relentless British oppression. It follows the Mooney family to Nova Scotia and then to Lot 46 in Eastern Kings, PEI; the McCarthy family to the Morell area of Lot 39; and the Marion McCarthy Gillan family in Charlottetown.
It is the courageous story of how the two matriarchs, determined to keep their families together, carried on after their husbands’ deaths, at a time when women—especially married women with children—had few rights, no public financial support, and no power.
Books can be purchased at Bookmark in Charlottetown, the Co-op in Morell, MacPhee’s Market in Souris, or directly from the author (fgillan@ hra.ca).
L’Acadie de L’Île-duPrince Édouard
The Acadians of Prince Edward Island Georges Arsenault
All are invited to attend the book launch events for L’Acadie de l’Île-duPrince-Édouard / The Acadians of Prince Edward Island by Georges Arsenault. The first event will take place on July 3 at 7 pm at the Acadian Museum in Miscouche, with a second event scheduled for July 4 at 6:30 pm at Le
Carrefour in Charlottetown.
Today, hundreds of unidentified photos pile up phones and computers. Historically, images were treasured and preserved. Arsenault’s book highlights the cultural and historical importance of carefully documented and organized photo collections. In some ways, this book is like an old-fashioned family album, except that it illustrates the ordinary life of not just one, but many Acadian families. Most of the photos are informal snapshots taken by Acadians themselves, dating from the late 1800s to the 1960s. The snapshots take the viewer back to a time of large families, subsistence farming, and when the church was the centre of village life.
With this book, Arsenault has created a bilingual portrait of Island Acadians of yesteryear.
An Acadian historian and folklorist, Arsenault has been writing about PEI’s Acadian community since the 1980s.The French edition of his first major work, The Island Acadians: 1720-1980, won both the Champlain and the France-Acadie awards. He has published several translated books on Acadian folklore, including Acadian Legends, Folktales and Songs from Prince Edward Island. His Acadian Mi-Carême: Masks and Merrymaking—winner of the PEI Book Award—and Acadian Christmas Traditions explore Acadian customs across Eastern Canada.
40 years of research
Institute of Island Studies celebrates milestone—June 14
Founded in 1985, the Institute of Island Studies (IIS) is celebrating 40 years as a research and public policy institute based at the University of Prince Edward Island. IIS focuses on the culture, environment, and economy of small islands around the world, with an emphasis on Prince Edward Island. Celebrate this milestone birthday on June 14 at UPEI from 4–8 pm. The event is free and open to all.
The celebration begins at 4 pm in the Steele Recital Hall, where speakers will highlight the origin of the institute, its early years, and impact on the Island, while looking ahead to the future. The event will then move to the Faculty Lounge, Main Building 201, for refreshments and cake.
There will be plenty of time for guests to socialize with old and new friends and to share their love for the institute and all things island.
For more information, contact Laurie Brinklow at brinklow@upei.ca or call 902-894-2881.
COMMUNITY #1
Brain injury awareness barbecue and flag raising
To mark Brain Injury Awareness Month on PEI this June, the Brain Injury Association of PEI is hosting a barbecue at the Charlottetown Fire Department following a flag raising at City Hall on June 10 at 11:45 am. Everyone is welcome. Info: jmmcinnis65@gmail.com
Fathers of Confederation Car Show
The Rural Municipality of Miltonvale Park is hosting its third annual Fathers of Confederation Car Show by the Confederation Trail at Charlottetown Metal Products on June 14 from 12–4 pm. There will be live music and canteen service. Antique and special interest vehicles are welcome. On-site car registration begins at 10:30 am, or pre-register by June 12 at surveymonkey.com/r/ MVPCAR. There is a small admission fee or the option to donate to the Food Bank, with all proceeds going to the organization. The rain date is June 15. 2744 North York River Rd, Miltonvale Park.
Meals on Wheels volunteers needed
Charlottetown Meals on Wheels is seeking volunteers to donate approximately four hours a month to deliver diet-specific meals to individuals in the greater Charlottetown area who, due to age or disability, need some assistance. Meals are prepared at the Hillsborough Hospital, Beach Grove Home, and Prince Edward Home, and are delivered on weekdays at noon. Contact Elizabeth at 902-629-0639 or Isabel at 902-569-3802 for more information.
LDAPEI summer workshops
The Learning Disabilities Association of PEI (LDAPEI) is hosting two different workshops for kids under the new Think, Build, Thrive! program this summer. The workshops are: Science & Tech Engineering & Design; and Executive Functioning (EF) for Kids. Visit ldapei. ca/summer-science-and-tech-program-2025/ for details, fees, and more info. 40 Enman Cres, Charlottetown.
Canada Day at Seacow Head
The Friends of Seacow Head Lighthouse Inc invite community members and the public to its Canada Day celebration on July 1 from 1–3 pm at Seacow Head Lighthouse. There will be a flag raising, birthday cake, barbecue, and kids’ activities. Tickets to climb to the top of the lighthouse will be available and the Lighthouse Café will be open from 10 am–6 pm. 198 Lighthouse Rd, Fernwood. Info: seacowheadlighthouse.com
In the Time of Maud
Spend an afternoon in the time of L.M. Montgomery, author of Anne of Green Gables, during an immersive experience at Orwell Corner Historic Village on Thursdays in July and August. A costumed guide will lead attendees through the village, connecting its authentic late-Victorian charm to Montgomery’s life. Visit adorable farm animals, learn to dance on the village green, enjoy afternoon tea, and hop on a wagon for a ride along a route the author once travelled in 1910. This program is intended for adult audiences, but children over age seven are welcome with supervision. Groups are welcome. Costumes are encouraged but not required. 98 McPhail Park Rd, Orwell. Info: pei.museum.ca; 902-651-8515
Farmers Helping Farmers AGM
The Farmers Helping Farmers Annual General Meeting takes place at the PEI Farm Centre, 420 University Ave, Charlottetown, on July 16 at 6 pm. The meeting will include a review of the
past year and plans for the year ahead. A meal will be available for purchase, prepared by Makena Ambassa. Check out @Farmers Helping Farmers on social media. Info: farmershelpingfarmers.ca
Dot to Dot in the Sky
Kids aged 6–12 are invited to celebrate the beginning of summer on June 27 at 10 am in the auditorium at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St). Learn all about the night sky, how to find the North Star, and some myths and legends with Canadian author Joan Marie.
Emotions Anonymous
Emotions Anonymous (EA) meets at 7 pm every Thursday at Jack Blanchard Hall, 7 Pond St, Charlottetown. This 12-step group is a fellowship of people who seek emotional wellness. EA offers support, friendship, laughter, trust, and unconditional love for those who feel lonely, depressed, anxious, worried, fearful, angry, or unsure where to turn for help. Info: 902-218-6380
Spring Park anniversary celebration
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the United Church of Canada and 60 years in the community, Spring Park United is hosting an anniversary service on June 8 at 10:30 am, followed by a barbecue and a chance to check out the Grow to Give garden. Everyone is welcome. 65 Kirkwood Dr, Charlottetown. Info: springparkunitedchurch.ca
PEI Rural Beautification Competition
The PEI Rural Beautification Society has launched its annual competition for 2025. From heritage homes, farm homes, and commercial or community building improvements to veggie patches and flower or community gardens, there’s a competition for every age group and skill level across 18 different categories. The Community Spirit People’s Choice Award returns this year, with a $1000 prize awarded to both the winning rural town and municipality. Town councils simply need to enter the contest so community members can vote. New this year is a competition aimed at rural towns and municipalities that provide space for community vegetable gardens, offering residents access to fresh produce. The top prize is $300. See the Competition Book for full details on all competitions and categories. Competition books are available at peirbs.ca, all Access PEI locations, Veseys Seeds, Kool Breeze Farms, and other Island greenhouse locations. Open to all rural Island residents, a total of $15,000 in prizes is up for grabs.
Trinity United Summerside celebrates 100 years
A celebration is set for June 8 as Trinity United in Summerside observes its 100th anniversary. Following a formal service, all are invited to the church auditorium for food and fellowship, and to rejoice in Trinity’s rich history by enjoying photos and information from the Trinity archives that will be on display. Trinity invites
anyone who has ever been involved in Trinity life to attend the 10:30 am service. In preparation, organizers are collecting written memories (email peggy@trinitysummerside.ca or drop off at the church office) and old photos or memorabilia reflecting Trinity life (email admin@trinitysummerside.ca). To volunteer, and for more information, call the church office at 902-436-3155.
Haunted Tours of Yeo House
Peer beyond the veil—and the exhibition ropes—with the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation’s Haunted Tours of Yeo House at the Green Park Shipbuilding Museum this summer. Taking place on Tuesdays and Fridays in July and August, participants will learn about Victorian mourning customs, meet the Foundation’s haunted object “Wheelie,” and explore eerie legends and lore of this Victorian-era home, guided by staff who have experienced the hauntings firsthand. This program is for ages 12 and up only. 360 Green Park Rd, Tyne Valley. Info: pei.museum.ca; 902-831-7947
AA Secular 12-Step Group
The Alcoholics Anonymous Secular 12-Step Group meets every Thursday at 6:30 pm at the Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. The group discusses excerpts from Beyond Belief: Agnostic Musings for 12 Step Life by Joe C, using science-based content to guide informal conversations about getting and staying sober. Books are provided. Meetings last one hour, and all are welcome.
Stay in the Loop, Plan Your Route
A new online resource will help residents and visitors plan their travel more easily during peak road construction season, as traffic volumes increase and more projects get underway. Stay in the Loop, Plan Your Route will allow motorists to stay up to date on upcoming road and bridge construction projects by county, and access free government trip-planning tools, instructional videos, and other useful information about highway safety and infrastructure work. Information will also be available at Access PEI locations. PEI’s road construction season typically runs from the May long weekend to early November, leaving a limited window to complete all projects. Weather conditions and the province’s porous sandstone road base restrict the use of heavy equipment to certain times of the year. The provincial government and its contractors carefully pre-plan construction to minimize travel disruptions. While planning helps reduce delays, interruptions may still occur throughout the season. Info: princeedwardisland.ca/ planyourroute
ADHD monthly meeting
The monthly discussion about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder will take place at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St.) on June 18 at 7 pm. Peers can seek advice from others on specific topics or simply share their personal experiences and frustrations in a supportive environment.
DiverseCity Festival
Celebrating culture and community at seven locations
The DiverseCity Festival is back and bigger than ever in 2025, with celebrations planned across seven communities throughout Prince Edward Island. Kicking off in Charlottetown on June 22, the festival continues its tradition of showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the Island through music, food, art, and community engagement.
Founded in 2007, the DiverseCity Festival was created to celebrate Canadian Multiculturalism, foster connections between newcomers and long-time Islanders, and support settlement, inclusion, anti-racism, and retention. Since expanding in 2014, the festival has continued to grow, becoming one of the most anticipated cultural events on PEI each summer.
This year’s events will be hosted in: Charlottetown on June 22 from 12:30–4:30 pm at Confederation Landing Park; Alberton on July 6 from 12–3 pm on Main Street; West Point on July 20 from 12–2 pm at West Point Lighthouse (365 Cedar Dunes Park Road); Summerside on July 27 from 1 am–3 pm at Lefurgey Cultural Centre; Three Rivers (Montague) on August 3 from 12–4 pm at Waterfront Park; Kensington on August 17 from
11am–3 pm at the Railway Station & Confederation Trail; and Souris on August 24 from 1–4 pm at Centennial Park on Pond Street.
Each event will feature multicultural food vendors, artisan and craft booths, live performances, and fun activities for children—promising an experience that’s enjoyable for all ages.
Hai Nguyen, the newly appointed DiverseCity Festival Coordinator, expressed his enthusiasm for this year’s festival season:
“I am very excited to be running the festivals! As an immigrant, I see value in showing our culture to Islanders— but it doesn’t end there. These festivals are more than just a showcase of different cultures. They’re about integrating, engaging, and building a shared community with Islanders. That is the most important part.”
The DiverseCity Festival is made possible through the support of volunteers, community organizations, funders, and partners committed to building a welcoming and inclusive Prince Edward Island.
For more information about each festival location or to get involved, visit diversecityfest.com.
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. PEI Autistic Adults was started by an autistic senior and currently has over 140 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.
EAL Conversation circle
The Immigrant & Refugee Services Association PEI hosts EAL conversation circles for adults on Tuesdays at 6 pm at the Summerside Library (57 Central St), and on Thursdays at 6:30 pm and Saturdays at 10 am at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St). Adults interested in practicing their English language skills are encouraged to join for informal conversation.
PEI Sociable Singles
PEI Sociable Singles is a social group for members aged 50 and over that meets once a week at the Malcolm J. Darrach Community Centre, 1 Avonlea Dr, Charlottetown, on Tuesdays at 6:45 pm. This is not a dating group—just friends getting together for meals, outings, and games, day or night. Those interested in attending a Tuesday meet-and-greet can contact sociable_singles@yahoo.com.
Breastfeeding support
Pregnant individuals and new parents are invited to a breastfeeding information and support meeting on June 24 from 4:30–5:30 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. Hosted by accredited leaders of La Leche League PEI, topics include preparing to breastfeed and managing common challenges. Light refreshments will be provided, and all are welcome to attend. Follow @lllc. pei on FB for updates. Info: 902-316-2167
Survey seeks input on road safety
Each year, thousands of lives are affected by preventable road accidents in PEI. Incidents of impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, and not wearing a seatbelt continue to pose significant risks to road safety. The Province is developing a new 10-year highway safety strategy, Pathways to Highway Safety, aimed at reducing traffic collisions, improving infrastructure, and making roads safer for everyone. Residents, commuters, and all road users are invited to help
shape the future of road safety in PEI by completing a public survey open until July 4. The survey is a critical first step in developing the strategy and covers topics such as road use, safety concerns, and driving behaviours. Feedback will help guide decisions and future investments to support road safety. Pathways to Highway Safety will be released in late 2026. Visit princeedwardisland.ca/pathways to take part in the survey.
Seniors Cafes
Seniors Cafés take place at both the Charlottetown and Summerside libraries. The next session at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) is on June 13 at 11 am, where seniors can enjoy friendly discussion over tea or coffee. The next session at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) is on June 19 at 1 pm and will feature a focused conversation about future opportunities for the Seniors Café. Food and refreshments will be provided. All materials will be supplied, and registration is not required.
Teen advisory group
Teens are welcome to join the Teen Advisory Group on Mondays at 3:30 pm at the Summerside Library (57 Central St). Meetings begin with an opportunity for teens to share their voices and opinions, followed by assisting staff with various tasks. Participation allows teens to earn volunteer hours toward the Community Service Bursary.
Rainbow Youth Club
Members and allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community who are looking for new pals and fun times are welcome to join the PEI Rainbow Youth Club at the Summerside Library. Each meeting provides youth with the opportunity to participate in youth-led discussions and fun activities, complete with opportunities for creativity and self-discovery. The next meetings are June 3 and 17 at 6 pm.
These sessions are led by trained PEERS Alliance staff and volunteers, and include a healthy snack. The Club is open to youth aged 12–18. Youth will not be asked to identify and all are welcome to attend.
Community fridges
Food donations can be dropped off during community fridge hours (Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm) at the nearest location: 10 Maple Hills Ave in Charlottetown, the West Royalty Community Centre, or the Stratford No Frills parking lot. Training is provided for those interested in volunteering. Volunteer shifts run from 9 am–1 pm or 1–5 pm. Monetary and food donations are also accepted during the week at the Charlottetown office at 10 Maple Hills Ave. Call Betty at 902-393-0171 for after-hours drop-offs, to volunteer, or to register as a client.
Olde Fashioned Carnival
Family fun with games, clowns, animals and more
The annual Olde Fashioned Carnival of Wyatt Heritage Properties Inc will take place on June 20 from 4–7 pm. The lawn between the Wyatt Historic House Museum and the 1867 Gothic Revival Lefurgey Cultural Centre (205 Prince Street, Summerside) will be transformed into the grounds of an olde fashioned carnival.
There are five-cent carnival games, a ten-cent tea tent, tea leaf readers, miniature horse rides, clowns and
Architectural Heritage
Local history celebrated in Summerside
Culture Summerside has once again brought local history to life with an engaging outdoor exhibit along historic Water Street. The fifteen-panel display highlights the unique architectural elements that define Summerside’s Heritage District and contribute to the character of the city’s built environment.
Take a stroll through the downtown core and explore the beauty of architectural details such as balconies, towers, columns, and roundhead windows. Each panel offers insight into the form, function, and fascinating origins of these timeless features, revealing how
West Point
Lighthouse
150th anniversary celebrations
In 1875, construction of the historic West Point Lighthouse—nestled along the shores of the Northumberland Strait at the western tip of PEI—was completed, and the lamp was lit that December. In 2025, the West Point community, along with locals and tourists alike, is celebrating the lighthouse’s 150th anniversary and its significance to the province’s history.
A full calendar of events is planned to mark the occasion, celebrating local heritage through music, art, and storytelling. The festivities begin June 7 with an official opening ceremony at 11
street performers, a petting farm, exotic animals, a reading tent, live music, carnival food, and more. There is something for every age group and interest.
There is no admission to the threehour carnival. Be sure to bring nickels for the games, and dimes for the tea tent. Carnival food offerings are sold for a dollar per item.
Visit culturesummerside.com for more details. The rain date is June 24.
each element plays a role in shaping the city’s visual charm.
At the centre of the exhibit is the Summerside Heritage District, officially designated in 2003 under the Summerside Heritage Conservation Bylaw, SS-20. The exhibition encourages a closer look at the structures passed by every day, inviting a deeper appreciation of the architectural legacy.
To complement the panels, an interactive architectural scavenger hunt is available for those seeking a fun and educational experience. Participants can pick up a free leaflet at the Lefurgey Cultural Centre (205 Prince Street) or the MacNaught History Centre and Archives (75 Spring Street). The leaflet features images of various architectural details featured in the exhibit, and challenges participants to find their real-life counterparts throughout the district.
The exhibit will remain in place until the fall. Admission is free, and all are welcome to enjoy this celebration of Summerside’s architectural heritage.
am at the Lighthouse & Inn, including performances by local and Indigenous artists and free tours of the Lantern Room. That day also features an art exhibit at the Harbourside Centre from 10 am–4 pm, and a concert by Jamie Matthews, Kurk Bernard, and Joey Doucette from 8–11 pm.
The WPFD Show n’Shine Car Show takes place June 8 from 11 am–4 pm, followed by a Festival of Small Halls concert with Gordie MacKeeman and His Rhythm Boys on June 20 at 7:30 pm. The Lorna Ellis Memorial Prize Bingo Night wraps up the June events on June 24 at 6:30 pm, all at the Harbourside Centre.
Celebrations continue through September 27 with concerts, a Canada Day bike parade, the Potato Blossom Festival, daily storytelling, a songwriting contest (submit to alellis@edu.pe.ca by August 15), and more.
westpointlighthouse.ca
The Cove Journal by
JoDee Samuelson
Moving into summer
The election is over and we can finally pay attention to our own lives. Pack away winter clothes, put screens on windows, start the lawnmower. Dig up plants for the Perennial Sale down at the Cove.
The hummingbird feeder is up. What a delightful spring. No dramatic storms or flooding—oh maybe a few power outages and that sort of thing, but fields are being seeded, ducklings are paddling in the brook, and we feel the distant thrum of lobster boats. It’s clear that we’re moving into summer.
In our yard white and purple crocus blooms have been supplanted by tall handsome striped leaves. Along the garden path irrepressible Johnnyjump-ups nod cheerfully, while under the honeysuckle bush blue-rosy pulmonaria nudge up against a carpet of symmetrical bee balm leaves.
We eagerly await flowers, but often the leaves and buds are equally amazing. How can I describe the foliage of the fringed bleeding heart by the side door? Soft green, lacy, fern-like…a feast for the eyes, no blossoms needed.
Beside the bleeding heart chives are shooting up, ready to add to omelettes, salads, anything. They go all summer and you can even eat the flowers. A forsythia bush in golden glory gazes down tolerantly on these earth-bound specimens, proud of its status as the first bush to flower—why, it flowers before it has leaves!
In the garden the new garlic is already halfway to maturity. It was planted in November and bedded for the winter under eelgrass and chestnut leaves… oh dear, I suddenly remember that last year’s stored garlic is starting to sprout. The green shoots are bitter: no time to lose! I pause my reverie and fetch the basket of garlic bulbs, then
spend the next hour breaking them apart, cutting off root tips and dropping cloves into a bowl of warm water to soften the skins. Half the peeled garlic cloves are frozen and half made into paste (chopped cloves blended with olive oil and lemon juice). Whew, that was close.
My motto these days is: “Do it when you think of it.”
I notice that the elderflower buds are about to burst into glorious white blossoms. Should I make Elderflower Champagne this year? Catherine Clough, a true naturalist, gave us this very basic recipe:
4 elderflower sprays, 1½ lb sugar, 2 T white wine vinegar, 8 pints cold water, 2 lemons quartered and squeezed
Place all in bowl. Cover. Stand 24 hours, stirring occasionally. Strain and bottle in screw top pop bottles or Grolsch bottles. Drink in 2 weeks. That’s it. Non-alcoholic, bubbly and refreshing. Warning: Pressure builds up. Store in cool place and open carefully.
I haven’t mentioned the spectacular tulipfest in our yard. The forget-menots are something else too. We should have a lawn party or something, … no, can’t do it, too many projects. It’s garden garden garden full time. Lettuce, spinach and peas are planted and up but many seeds must wait until after the last frost (June 10) .
Don’t you love this time of year?
June 13th
NATURE
Climate change and mental health
This month’s Nature PEI meeting at Beaconsfield Carriage House (2 Kent St, Charlottetown) will be held on June 3 at 7:30 pm. The meeting will begin with a raffle and sharing of nature observations, followed by guest speaker Pelin Kinay presenting at 8 pm. Kinay will address the effects of climate change on mental health. Kinay is a Climate Smart Lab researcher at the UPEI Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation in St. Peter’s, PEI, and explores climate change adaptation and its associated impacts on human health. Admission is free and all are welcome. The meeting will be live-streamed on the Nature PEI FB page. Nature PEI meets on the first Tuesday of each month. Info: naturepei.ca
PEI Untamed with Kate MacQuarrie
Learn, explore, and reconnect with nature at PEI Untamed with Kate MacQuarrie. Upcoming sessions include: Plant Walk of Macphail Woods in Orwell on June 7; Lady Slipper Walk in Milltown Cross on June 14; Foraging with The Beach Goats on June 21; Cattail Flower Boil with The Beach Goats on July 5; Bog & Orchid Workshop in Ellerslie on July 12; and Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk in Hazelgrove on July 26. Info/register: pei-untamed.com
Celebrating Canadian Rivers Day
The second Sunday of June is a national day for all Canadians to celebrate the vital role rivers play in their lives. This year, on June 8, the Hillsborough River Association (HRA) invites everyone to visit their favourite Island river and celebrate the many values of rivers on Canadian Rivers Day. This day is a great opportunity for watershed residents to enjoy the beautiful viewscapes and the history of the Hillsborough, the first river designated as a Canadian Heritage River on PEI and the 17th designated as
a Canadian Heritage River. Some ways people can contribute to conserving the Hillsborough River’s history and environment include: planting native vegetation to enhance wildlife habitat; taking and sharing photographs of a favourite river; creating wildlife cover patches; sharing family history or researching its history; documenting wildlife sightings on platforms like inaturalist.ca or eBird Canada; and cleaning up and properly disposing of waste along a section of the river. To see the progress that’s being made on the Hillsborough riparian zone and watershed, contact the HRA at pisquidwatershed@gmail.com and ask for the latest issue of the Hillsborough Tidings newsletter or follow @hra-watershed-management on FB.
Wildflowers for Waste: Hyde Creek Cleanup
Lend a hand and help the Cornwall and Area Watershed Group clean up Hyde Creek on June 14 from 12–3 pm. Staff will be set up at two locations: Hyde Pond (Pond Street parking lot) and the Cornwall Community Gardens (MacArthur Drive). Helpers will receive native wildflower seeds as a thank you. Supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Info: cawgpei.com/get-involved
Lady Slipper Walk
The annual Lady Slipper Walk, sponsored by the Tracadie Good Neighbourly Club, will begin at the Tracadie Community Centre (148 Station Rd) on June 15 at 2 pm. The walk will follow the Confederation Trail and take about 45 minutes. Participants will view and photograph the Lady Slipper, but not pick the provincial floral emblem. Everyone is welcome, and there is no fee. Info: 902-330-2248
Atlantic salmon habitat improvement funding
The Hillsborough River Association has received a 2025 Foundation for Conservation of Atlantic Salmon grant of $20,000 to implement wild Atlantic salmon habitat improvements and continue reopening stream enhancement work trails blocked by overwinter blowdowns. Stream and riparian zone
improvement work will take place on the Head of Hillsborough main stream, Pisquid River, Clark’s Creek, and Vernon River. This funding will assist the Association and Pisquid River Enhancement Project staff to maintain beaver-free zones on the Pisquid River, Clark’s Creek, and Head of Hillsborough, trap silt to improve salmon spawning and rearing habitat, continue temperature and nitrate monitoring, support salmon spawning redds and electrofishing surveys, provide educational outreach, and more. In addition, five natural log flow deflectors will be installed; at least 30 meters of brush mats will be placed to capture silt; and at least 200 native trees and shrubs will be planted and maintained to enrich diversity and create stream shade. Floating log cover structures will also be installed, and the 2025 issue of the Hillsborough Tidings newsletter will be released.
Local wildlife fundraiser at Heron’s Nest in Mont-Carmel
To raise funds for local wildlife, Heron’s Nest in Mont-Carmel will open its private gardens on July 19 from 10 am–7 pm. All proceeds will go to the PEI Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Inc. Tax receipts will be available. The rain date is July 20. Address will be announced closer to the event. Search “Heron’s Nest 1 Day Only Private Gardens Invitation” on FB for updates.
Talk and Walk: The Birds of Glenaladale
The Glenaladale Heritage Trust (GHT) and the Winter River–Tracadie Bay Watershed Group (WRTB) present Talk and Walk: The Birds of Glenaladale— Their Lives in Summer on July 21 at the Glenaladale Schoolhouse. Ornithologist Dr. Kathy Martin, assisted by Clare Martin and staff from WRTB and GHT, will lead a walk around the Glenaladale Historic property to observe birds and their nests, followed by a talk on nesting ecology and other summer activities of birds. Light refreshments will be provided. Meet at the Glenaladale Schoolhouse, 257 Blooming Point Rd, Tracadie. The walk will begin at 8:30 am. Attendance is by donation. Info/register: kathy.martin@ubc.ca
BIPOC Business Expo
Celebrate diversity and empower business—June 7
The BIPOC Business Professionals Network (BIPOC BPN) presents the Mosaic BIPOC Business Expo 2025 on June 7 from 1–5 pm at the Delta Hotels by Marriott, Charlottetown.
The Expo is an opportunity to celebrate and elevate BIPOC-owned businesses across Prince Edward Island. Entrepreneurs, community organizations, and local supporters are invited to connect, collaborate, and champion diversity in the business landscape.
The event will feature over 30+ BIPOC-owned businesses showcasing products and services. There will be networking opportunities with business leaders, partners, and customers, as well as interactive learning sessions, including: Unlocking Growth: How Small Businesses Can Harness the Power of AI; and Strategies for Growing Your Business Panel Discussion.
“We believe that empowering BIPOC entrepreneurs strengthens our entire economy,” says Fadi Rashed, Vice President at BIPOC BPN.
Admission to the event is free. Exhibitor spaces are still available. To register, visit bipocbpn.ca/event.
Island entrepreneurs mixer in Charlottetown—June 4
Island entrepreneurs are invited to attend the networking mixer, Canadians Connected: Charlottetown, at Salt & Sol on June 4 from 5–7:30 pm.
Canadians Connected: Charlottetown is an opportunity to network with Canadian internet stakeholders and hear from local entrepreneurial talent while enjoying cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a pop-up marketplace from local .CA businesses (Colourful Island, Goldfsh Jewelry, Hoodle Haddles, Atlantic Mustard Mill, and Una Beauty) and hear from local entrepreneurial talent.
Award-winning technology expert, Amber Mac, will be in conversation with Coltin Handrahan, Founder of Stay Golden Custom, to discuss what it means to be a Canadian entrepreneur. This event will be in English only. It is open and free to all, but attendees must RSVP at cira. ca/en/resources/news/about/ canadians-connected-charlottetown.
The Nature of PEI by
Gary Schneider
The Butcher Bird
The Northern Shrike is an uncommon species in Prince Edward Island. Known as a songbird for its lovely warbling call, it also has a reputation as a fearsome predator. This spring a friend and I took a trip to Greenwich National Park to see what birds might be around. We’d heard about a Northern Shrike in the area but it wasn’t until the end of our walk when we heard one singing.
We followed the call and came upon the bird singing from the top of a shrub in a regenerating field. It flew from speckled alder to willow and back, looking for prey. Make no mistake this is as much a predator as any hawk or falcon.
About the size of an American Robin, an adult shrike is composed of shades of black and white. The wings are black, while the tail is black with white edging. It also has a distinctive black stripe through the eye that makes it appear to be wearing a mask. Younger shrikes have browner bodies and lack the mask.
All shrikes have strong, hooked bills that they use to capture prey—everything from grasshoppers and other insects to small birds, mice, and voles. They have an unpleasant habit—at least to my sensibility—of hanging food on the long thorn of a native hawthorn or even a barbed wire fence. Hence the nickname, Butcher Bird.
These are birds that I come across once or twice a year, despite being in appropriate habitats quite regularly. They are birds of open areas, especially ones with wires, fence posts, or shrubs to perch on. Rarely would you find them in a forest.
CAMPS
Art camp at Good Vibes
Good Vibes Art School is offering a summer art camp for kids aged 5–13. Sessions start June 30, July 7, and July 14. Activities include painting, drawing, mixed media, printmaking, and sculpture. Limited space is available. Call 902-916-0891 to register. 3421 Brackley Pt Rd, Brackley.
Summer camp at Confederation Centre
Registration is open for summer camps at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. A wide variety of camps are on offer for youth ages 4–17, including musical theatre, visual arts, dance, choral music, and more. Weekly
camps run from June 30 to August 22. Info/register: confederationcentre.com; 902-566-1267
Summer camp at Orwell Corner Historic Village
Young Islanders can step back in time and experience PEI’s past at a summer day camp in Orwell Corner Historic Village, running weekdays from July 7 to August 29. Designed for children aged 6–10, the program offers hands-on activities that bring the early 1900s to life. Campers can roll up their sleeves to churn butter, make ice cream, try blacksmithing, care for farm animals, and explore traditional crafts like rope making. The camp also includes old-fashioned games and scenic horse-drawn wagon rides. Registration is open at locarius.io/events/2369/orwell-cornersummer-camps. Info: peimuseum.ca/ visit/orwell-corner-historic-village
breeding season, you would have to visit the northern boreal forest to find this bird. And you won’t find it in a flock—it is a solitary bird that keeps its own company.
I’ve always been curious as to why they sing so sweetly. As they are on their winter grounds here, they aren’t trying to attract a mate. I had no idea why they would waste valuable energy by singing. It turns out that they are using their song to lure in prey. An American researcher set up an experiment to test his theory. He played tapes of Northern Shrike calls and monitored the responses by small birds. He also used the call of an American Robin as a control. More small birds responded to the shrike call than to the robin call. They came more quickly and more closely, and there were more of them. He watched as American Goldfinches and other small birds were attracted to the song, and witnessed several of them being chased and killed by the shrike. That really is one clever bird.
A good example of how things have changed in our treatment of birds stems from the 1870s. House Sparrows—native to Europe and Eurasia—were introduced in Brooklyn to control caterpillars on linden trees and to give settlers a taste of the homeland. Another genius idea, as now they are one of the most invasive birds in many places all around North America. The story goes that a warden was hired to shoot Northern Shrikes on the Boston Commons in winter, in order to protect the sparrows! I believe today that warden would be trying to get rid of the House Sparrows and leaving other birds alone.
We look for Northern Shrike every year and feel very fortunate to have found one.
SALES
Canoe Cove Perennial Sale
The Canoe Cove Community Association will be holding its 18th annual perennial sale at the Inman Park on June 7 from 9 am–12 noon. The sale will feature hundreds of perennials, annuals, herbs, dahlias, shrubs, trees and rich garden compost at a reasonable price. The canteen will be offering coffee and muffins during the sale. All proceeds go towards the maintenance and beautification of the historic Canoe Cove School. 208 Park Rd, Canoe Cove.
Under The Spire Garage Sale
Under the Spire will host a garage sale in the pavilion on June 7 from 9 am–1 pm. The sale includes antique and vintage items, CD and music memorabilia, tools and equipment, and more. 1374 Hamilton Rd, Kensington.
Church Mouse Thrift Shop
The Church Mouse Thrift Shop holds weekly sales every Saturday from 9 am–2 pm, with proceeds going to St. John the Evangelist Church in Crapaud. Each week features new items, including rotating selections of adult and children’s clothing, books, housewares, bedding, small furniture, collectibles, and more. Sales run to the end of October. The shop is located across from Englewood School at 391 Nelson St, Crapaud. Info: 902-6582995; @stjohnsanglicanchurch on FB
Musicabilia 2025
The large music sale, Musicabilia, returns to the Wood Islands Market at Plough the Waves Hall (13056 Shore Rd) on June 14 from 10 am–4 pm. The sale includes vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, instruments, equipment, raffle prizes, and more. A small admission fee applies, and proceeds will go toward the restoration of the historic Wood Islands Lighthouse. Info: wiadc@woodislands.ca
West River United Yard Sale
West River United will have an indoor yard sale on June 14 from 9 am–12 noon. All proceeds will go to Meals on Wheels. 10 Church St, Cornwall.
New Glasgow Yard Sale
The New Glasgow Christian Women’s Fellowship is hosting a yard sale at the New Glasgow Christian Church (617 Rte 258) on June 21 from 9 am–12 noon. All proceeds will go toward local missions. The sale will be held rain or shine.
Gifts from the Heart
Gifts from the Heart holds a public thrift sale from 10 am–3 pm on the last Saturday of each month (June 28, July 26). Proceeds support operating costs. Led by Betty Begg-Brooks 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. Info: giftsfromtheheartinc.com
Tracadie Yard Sale
The annual Tracadie community yard sale will be held on July 5 and 6 from 8 am–2 pm. The sale will feature items ranging from tools, plants, and kitchenware to collectibles, sports equipment, jewelry, and furniture. Free shopping bags will be available for the first shoppers. Crafts from around the world will be for sale, with proceeds assisting marginalized populations in the South. 1257 Donaldston Rd, Tracadie.
Prince Edward Island is part of their wintering ground. During the
DONNA MARTIN
A Northern Shrike perched on a hawthorn
Summerside Garden Tour
Eighteen gardens showcased throughout the summer
After a six-year break, the Summerside and Area Garden Club is bringing back its Summer Garden Tour. Eighteen gardens will be showcased on Sunday afternoons from 1–4 pm throughout the summer.
The tour kicks off July 6 with visits to the gardens of Roberta Gaudet (30 Townsend Cres, Traveller’s Rest), Guy Jacquart (111 Hillside Dr, Summerside), Carol Capper (657 Water St E, Summerside), Sandy Gallant (117 Bay Ave, Summerside), and Serenity Gardens—Alan and Heather Thorpe (45 South Dr, Summerside).
Tours are free and open to all. A donation box will be available at one location each week, with proceeds supporting the maintenance and enhancement of the Prince County Hospital courtyard garden—a space the Club has lovingly cared for over 20 years. Nearly every time volunteers are in the garden, someone—whether staff, patient, or visitor—stops to say how peaceful and healing the space is, and expresses their thanks for the efforts of the Club’s volunteers.
Tours continue on Sundays until August 3, with gardens featured in Summerside, Traveller’s Rest, Union Corner, Wellington, Tyne Valley,
TALKS
Know Your Rights legal presentation
and before
Bayview, Kensington, and more. Full details are at buzzpei.com.
The Summerside and Area Garden Club meets on the third Thursday of each month at the Wilmot Community Centre. New members are always welcome. For more information, follow on Facebook, email summersidegardenclub@gmail.com, or call 902-786-1348.
GAMES
Charlottetown Scrabble Club
The PEI Human Rights Commission and the Law Society of PEI will present a free legal information session on individuals’ rights under PEI’s Human Rights Act. Sessions will take place at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on June 17 and at the Law Society of PEI (119 Kent St, Charlottetown) on June 25, both from 6–8 pm. Topics include what constitutes discrimination under the law, which characteristics are protected (e.g., race, gender, disability), what the PEI Human Rights Commission can do for individuals, and how to file a human rights complaint. Registration is required, as space is limited. Register online at forms.office.com/r/S9EmMyks3W
Service Canada: Canadian Dental Care Program
David Lund from Service Canada will give an information session at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on June 24 at 10 am about revisions to the Canadian Dental Care Program.
The Charlottetown Scrabble Club meets on Tuesdays from 5–8 pm at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St). All skill levels are welcome. Scoresheets, strategy tips, and cheat sheets are provided. Admission is free.
Crokinole
Drop in to play a game of crokinole at the Summerside Rotary Library (57 Central St) on June 11 and 25 at 2 pm.
Bingo with Miz Majestix
Miz Majestix hosts Game Night Bingo on June 12 and 26 from 7–9 pm at Upstreet Craft Brewing. 41 Allen St, Charlottetown
AFL Sundays at Village Green
Drop in to Village Green Brewery on Sundays at 4 pm for Aussie Rules Football (AFL). Catch the Sydney Swans and learn about the Atlantic AFL League. 30 Church St, Cornwall.
Prince County Hospital Courtyard Garden, now (above)
Talking from Experiences by Ashleigh
Tremere
Foraging
Have you ever wandered around looking at plants on the ground and wondered, “What is that all about? Could I eat it?” I do, constantly. I love growing my own food, but I especially love food that just grows itself for free—like the mullein that found its way into my garden a few years back.
I was doing some end-of-season lazy weeding, and here was this fuzzyleafed beauty. Something tickled at the back of my brain, saying, “Let’s wait and see.” That’s the thing about plants, you have to spend some time amongst them to really learn their ways.
I think there is this tendency to just categorize what pops up around us in really broad terms: things I planted are to be kept, and everything else is a weed to pull up or mow down. But because I didn’t look at that mullein as something to be ripped up, because I let my curiosity lead me on a knowledge quest, I learned about its benefits and uses.
Now my nine-year-old makes tea and tinctures with it. She became enthralled by the idea of foraging last spring and now tells people that she’s halfway to being a herbalist. I’ve completely encouraged this. I’m naturally curious about it myself, and that mullein tincture really came in handy through the winter.
I’ve always kept identification books around for various bits of our natural world, but my favourite way to glean information with confidence comes from more hands-on, in-person learning. That’s why I’ve taken part in a number of sessions with Kate MacQuarrie.
If you have even the slightest curiosity about edible wild plants, animal tracks, or general ecology of PEI, you probably follow MacQuarrie on social media. A professional biologist and trapper, recreational angler, fisher, fossil hunter and an old school historian,
MacQuarrie is the brain behind PEI Untamed and a wealth of knowledge. I’ve also heard she has a forthcoming book, Wild Foods of Prince Edward Island. I will be buying it!
We began our walk at MacQuarrie’s property, greeted by her beautiful dogs and a charm of hummingbirds. Fifteen to twenty of us were eager to wander the woods and fields with an expert and our notebooks. Over a few hours, we were offered the knowledge of over 30 plants along the way. Recipes and wise warnings for consideration were mixed in, like: always wash your duckweed really well, and that cattails are bioaccumulators so make sure you collect them near running water or springs. Or that old man’s beard can be chewed for a toothache.
We moved at a reasonable enough pace so that everyone got pictures when they wanted and questions were thoroughly answered.
I’ve attended a number of MacQuarrie’s free talks, but I highly recommend you sign up for a session. The breadth of knowledge packed into them is immense, and the locational aspect is an integral part of the learning process.
Workshops at Macphail Woods
Three free events at the Homestead in June
June is always a busy month at Macphail Woods. Forests are teeming with birdsong, and the wildflowers are in their full glory. It’s a great time to be wandering through the woods. There are some free events this month that should be of great interest to anyone with an appreciation for nature.
On June 7 from 10–11:30 am, Kate MacQuarrie will lead a workshop on native plants of PEI. Kate is one of the province’s foremost biologists and hosts the PEI Untamed website. Her talk and walk will highlight many commonly encountered plants—both native and non-native—as well as a variety of rare trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and ferns found in the Macphail Woods arboretum.
On June 14 from 2–3:30 pm, there is a workshop with Bob Bancroft on How Healthy Forests Function. Bob is a well-known CBC Radio Noon guest. Drawing upon his career as a wildlife biologist and avid nature lover, Bob offers a unique perspective on Maritime ecology over the last half-century. PEI sorely needs a land and water ethic—as do most other places. This workshop will explore some of the intricate plant/wild animal/freshwater relationships within Wabanaki/Acadian forests and how those systems have historically coped with change. The last 300 years of land use have degraded most of those relationships, the soils, and the land itself. Ecological understanding can foster new actions to maintain and restore forest health while promoting greater resilience in the face of climate change.
On June 21 from 10–11:30 am, Daniel McRae will lead a timely workshop on Protecting Your Shoreline. Join Daniel for an important discussion on protecting PEI’s fragile shoreline,
especially in the face of increasingly harsh weather events. Participants will learn about living shorelines, harmful practices to avoid, and which native plants are best suited to withstand the tough coastal conditions found on PEI. All workshops begin at the Nature Centre on the Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead in Orwell. Each workshop includes time outside on the Homestead property. Dress for the weather, as these events are rain or shine. Participants are asked to pre-register online at macphailwoods. org/education/free-workshops.
The Buzz is published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc.
The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Compensation for errors in advertising copy which are the proven responsibility of the publisher is limited to a maximum of the cost of the placement of the advertisement.
Little Kit Bag Inc., operating as The Buzz, acknowledges that we are located on and operate on Mi’kma’ki, the traditional unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people who have lived here for many thousands of years, and who continue to live here.
COVER:
Young Christine’s Dream, watercolour, 22”x28” by Christine Zareck.
Christine Zareck is an artist and interior designer living in Stanley Bridge, PEI. She dabbled throughout the years with watercolours. Using the free time offered by COVID, she took an online course to improve her skills.
Young Christine’s Dream took over a year to create as she practiced the technique of each area separately to perfection (lace, jeans, hair) before painting it on the original.
Christine had an image in mind, a true story of herself in her early forties—reading Anne of Green Gables; dreaming of living on PEI. Her dream came true in 2017 when she moved to the Island from Quebec and started her company Material Girl Fabrics. @materialgirl.pei
HEELS & WHEELS
Gutsy Walk
The Gutsy Walk will take place at Summerside Intermediate School (247 Central St, Summerside) on June 1 at 12 pm. This national event is held in communities across Canada to raise funds and awareness for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. More than 322,000 Canadians are affected by these conditions. Visit gutsywalk.ca to register, fundraise, or make a donation. Info: 902-393-3952
Run To End Endo®
The Endo Network’s Run To End Endo® takes place on June 1, starting at 12:30 pm at the Victoria Park Cultural Pavilion. Charlottetown is one of eight cities participating between May 31–June 15. The event aims to bring hope, awareness, and support to the endometriosis community. Participants can run, jog, walk, or join virtually. To register or learn more, visit endometriosisnetwork.com.
Demystifying E-Bikes for Seniors
Discover the joy of e-bikes and make new friendships at Cycling PEI’s Demystifying E-Bikes for Seniors. Organized in partnership with Rising Tides E-bikes, the free event will be held on June 7 at the Culinary Institute parking lot (4 Sydney St, Charlottetown). Riding sessions start at 9 am and 11 am, followed by free refreshments. This event is open to those aged 60 and older. Participants must already know how to ride a conventional two-wheeled bike. All participants will receive basic e-bike instruction and have a chance to test and get comfortable with an e-bike in the parking lot before heading out on a guided group ride. Advance registration is required at ccnbikes.com/#!/events/ demystifying-e-bikes-for-seniors, or contact Cycling PEI at info@cyclingpei.org or 902-368-4985 for help reserving a spot.
Kidney Walk
Canadians come together each year at the Kidney Walk to celebrate and support the kidney and transplant community. Walks take place in Summerside at Credit Union Place (511 Notre Dame St) on June 7 and in Charlottetown at Victoria Park (100 Victoria Park Rd) on June 8, both starting at 10 am. Enjoy entertainment, prizes, face painting, and refreshments. Register at kidneywalk.ca.
Hike & Bike for Hospice PEI
Islanders are invited to walk, hike, or bike in memory of a loved one, friend, or family member as part of Hospice PEI’s fundraiser, Hike & Bike. Three in-person hikes will take place across the Island on June 8 from 2–4 pm at Mill River Resort, the Summerside Boardwalk, and Queen Elizabeth Park in Charlottetown. Participants can also take part in a
virtual Hike & Bike until June 8. As a non-profit organization, Hospice PEI relies heavily on community support to continue providing care to Islanders living with a life-limiting diagnosis and their families. Info: hospicepei.ca/ hike-for-hospice-2025/
Walk to End ALS
The 21st annual Walk to End ALS takes place at Victoria Park, beside the Kiwanis Dairy Bar, on June 14 at 10 am. The Walk is a community-driven event for people living with or affected by ALS, as well as for those who want to help create a world free of the disease. Activities for all ages include live music by Just Cuz, a 50/50 draw, face painting, games, inflatables, door prizes, a photo booth, and more. Register a team at alspei.ca/walkfor-als/ or participate virtually. On-site registration begins at 9 am. Victoria Park Rdwy, Charlottetown.
Cornwall Run Club
The Cornwall Run Club hosts 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), located in the old post office/dental clinic in Cornwall. Follow @CornwallRunClub on Facebook for updates.
Terry Fox Ride of Hope
Riders of all levels are invited to participate in the second annual Gravel Ride of Hope fundraiser on June 22 at 10 am. Hosted by Cycling PEI, the ride departs from the Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead and offers two scenic route options along the Confederation Trail: one with various distance choices suitable for all abilities, and another—a multi-surface route approximately 70 km long—for those seeking a bigger challenge. A gravel or mountain bike is recommended. The fundraising goal is $5000, with all proceeds supporting the Terry Fox Foundation and cancer research. After the ride, participants are welcome to explore the Homestead grounds. The Homestead Tea Room will also be open for lunch. Email macphailhomestead@gmail.com for reservations. Info: cyclingpei.org/events/tfroh2025
Glucose Grind Endurance Run
The inaugural Glucose Grind Endurance Run takes place on June 28 to raise funds for PEI seniors living with diabetes. This 65 km endurance run stretches from Kensington to downtown Charlottetown, but participation is open to everyone, regardless of fitness level. There are no expectations for distance or speed—participants can run the full 65 kilometres, split it with a team, walk, jog, or bike part of the route, exercise in their own community, or simply donate and help spread awareness. In partnership with the Community Foundation of PEI, the event is spearheaded by Geoff Kowalski. All donations are eligible for a tax receipt and will support seniors who struggle to afford medical supplies, nutrition, and other essential resources for managing diabetes. Info: geoffkowalski6@gmail. com, cfpei.ca/glucosegrind
Clerel, Festival of Small Halls 2023 (photo: Rachel Peters Photography)
River Clyde Pageant
10th year for performance and collective creation event
The River Clyde Pageant marks its 10th anniversary in 2025–26, celebrating a decade of community-engaged outdoor theatre along the banks of the River Clyde in New Glasgow, PEI. This milestone season launches a new two-year performance cycle, exploring the collective movement patterns of flocks and swarms, plant and animal migrations, and the shifting responses these movements evoke. Public performances of the 2025 Pageant will run on July 24–27 and July 31–August 3.
Leading up to the performances, the Pageant offers an expanded program of free, public arts workshops led by professional artists from across PEI and beyond, with opportunities for participants of all ages and experience levels to contribute to the creation of the anniversary production.
Several workshops return for the 2025 season. Puppet Ensemble, led by Evan Medd, Sébastien Labelle and Laura Stinson, will bring a collection of new and returning puppets to life. Flocking Together, the creative movement workshop led by the Pageant’s choreographer Reequal Smith, will explore the patterns of birds in flight, drawing from Afro-Contemporary dance traditions and Calypso Fusion. Sounds of the Flock, a choir workshop led by Choir Director Andrea Ellis with support from Marti Hopson, invites participants into the co-creation and learning of choral music for the Pageant. Music Director Garry Williams returns to lead A Sounder, A Swarm, which will gather instrumentalists and singers to explore improvisation and music creation inspired by the themes of the show.
For those interested in contributing to the design of the Pageant, two workshops are available. Ian McFarlane leads Co-creating with Landscape, a two-weekend workshop in outdoor scenic design in early June. Participants will explore found and natural materials while learning techniques in performance design, creating scenic elements for the Pageant that
reflect the environment and connect with the setting. As part of The Bee, a weekly drop-in workshop focused on crafting and socializing, participants will help with the making of costume and puppet elements.
For those interested in one of the Pageant’s performance features, stilt director Laura Astwood will offer an Introduction to Stilt Walking workshop on June 21–22. Playwright Mike Geither returns to lead a workshop in bird watching on June 14, and will also co-lead a new ecological creative writing workshop with poet Kristen Tetzmann called This Can’t Be the End, which invites written exploration of the climate crisis and environmental issues for writers from all genres and experience levels.
All are welcome in the creation of the 2025 Pageant, including those new to the event. Workshop spaces are limited, and early registration is encouraged. Find all the details at riverclydearts.com/get-involved.
Pageant tickets will go on sale on June 24 at 10 am and June 25 at 7 pm. Subscribe to the newsletter for early access to tickets and updates.
Charlotteown’s Got Talent
Charlottetown Library—June 21
Charlottetown’s Got Talent will take place at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre, located at 97 Queen Street, on June 21 at 1 pm.
Participants are invited to showcase a talent of their choice. Each demonstration limited to 10 minutes. Creativity is encouraged, and prizes will be awarded. Submission forms are required and must be submitted by June 13. Forms are available at the library’s welcome desk.
The 2024 River Clyde Pageant
The Waltz
Watermark Theatre’s fall production of The Waltz by Canadian playwright Marie Beath Badian, will run from October 14–18. Directed by Santiago Guzmán, this deeply personal and charming play explores the question: Do we ever truly feel at home in the world?
Set in Northeast Saskatchewan in the early ‘90s, The Waltz tells the story of Romeo Alvarez, a young man travelling cross-country from Ontario to British Columbia to begin university. Along the way, he makes a stop to visit friends of his mother’s and ends up at a remote cabin—where he’s unexpectedly greeted by Beatrice Klassen, a sharp and skeptical teenager.
As the sun sets, these two Filipino Canadian teens—whose histories are serendipitously interwoven—spend an evening together with a boombox, discovering what it means to be young, uncertain, and full of questions about identity, family, and the future.
This production is part of Watermark’s ongoing commitment to produce or present a play by a Canadian BIPOC playwright every year, a vital initiative that continues to enrich the cultural landscape of PEI.
Tickets are available at locarius. io/organizations/26 or by calling 902-963-3963.
Gab’n’Greg…
Variety show at The Guild
Gabrielle Roddy and Greg Ellard bring their Thursday night variety show, Gab’n’Greg & Greg’n’Gab, to the stage at The Guild in Charlottetown on June 12 and 26 at 7:30 pm.
These evenings of comedy and music will feature new songs, old songs, sing-alongs, skits, parodies, and a special guest each week. Visit theguildpei.com for tickets.
Seeker
Solo work by Tanya Davis at Victoria Playhouse
Seeker: The Surprising Findings, a new solo work from PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis, opens at Victoria Playhouse this month.
Seeker: The Surprising Findings is a droll and illuminating take on the misguided pursuit of happiness and the reality that often goes unnoticed along the way. With characteristic wit and clarity, Davis—both writer and performer—sifts through church, state, and wellness culture to parse humanity’s best intentions from its worst practices. Laying bare her own tendencies, Davis invites audiences to cringe and laugh along, to consider the harm that hides in seeking’s shadows, and to question what it is we are really looking for. Performances take place at 7:30 pm on June 27 and July 10, 12, 15, and 17. victoriaplayhouse.com
Annie:
The Musical
Revolution Productions will present Annie: The Musical at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown this month, with performances on June 27 and 28 at 7 pm, and on June 29 at 2 pm.
This family-friendly show features a cast from Revolution Productions’ musical theatre performance program, along with a group of local theatre professionals.
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, Little Orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-tonothing start in 1930s New York City. Determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago at a New York City orphanage run by Miss
Dear Jack, Dear Louise
Watermark Theatre’s summer season brings Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise to the stage in North Rustico with performances on select dates from June 24 to August 30.
Directed by Robert Tsonos, the play is an inspiring reminder of the best we can be, even in the worst of times.
Hannigan, she escapes with help from the other girls into the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, she foils Miss Hannigan’s plans and finds a new home with billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his secretary Grace Farrell, and a dog named Sandy.
Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray, Annie became a worldwide phenomenon and won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. With a book and score by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse, and Martin Charnin, the show features musical theatre hits like “Tomorrow.”
Tickets available at ticketpro.ca.
During World War II, a military doctor begins writing to an aspiring actress in New York City, hoping to meet her someday—if the war will allow. But as the war continues, it threatens to end their relationship before it even begins. Tony Award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig tells the joyous, heart-warming story of his parents and their courtship during World War II—a poignant and engaging love story, filled with comedy and an uplifting sense of hope.
The Woman in Black, by Stephen Mallatratt will open next month at Watermark, with performances on select dates from July 4 to August 29. Visit locarius.io/organizations/26 or call 902-963-3963 for tickets. watermarktheatre.com
Playwright Marie Beath Badian (left) and director Santiago Guzmán
Marie Beath play at Watermark Theatre this fall
Revolution Productions musical at Florence Simmons
Ken Ludwig’s play opens at Watermark Theatre in June
PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis
Charlottetown Festival
Tell Tale Harbour and Million Dollar Quartet begin mid-June 902 888 2500
Alan Doyle returns in the homegrown show Tell Tale Harbour this month. The original Canadian musical comedy is about a small Atlantic fishing harbour that will do anything to save its community. The harbour is looking for a miracle when an opportunity arises to bring a state-of-the-art frozen french fry facility to town. There’s just one major obstacle—to secure the factory, the harbour must have a full-time resident doctor. Realizing this might be their last chance to save their beloved community, the townspeople come together to charm an interim doctor into moving there permanently.
The musical full of East Coast pride delighted audiences when it made its world premiere at The 2022 Charlottetown Festival and completed a cross-province tour of Newfoundland and Labrador. Since then, the musical has been workshopped by its creative team for its return this summer.
“The Charlottetown Festival has a long history of producing new Canadian musicals, and an important part of that process is to revisit works to help them evolve so that they can be shared on stages across the country,” says Adam Brazier, the Centre’s artistic director of performing arts and one of the co-creators of Tell Tale Harbour “The 2025 version of this musical is the same story audiences fell in love with, but the entire world has been reimagined with new characters, additional songs, more dancing, and fresh set and costume designs.”
The musical is co-written by Canadian songwriter Alan Doyle, revered for his solo material and the band Great Big Sea. Doyle starred in the 2022 production and returns in the lead role this summer.
Performances of Tell Tale Harbour run June 14–August 29 at the Sobey Family Theatre.
Playing alongside Tell Tale Harbour
at The 2025 Charlottetown Festival is the wildly popular jukebox musical Million Dollar Quartet. The show is set on December 4, 1956, when an extraordinary true-life twist of fate brought Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins together at Sun Records in Memphis. Their first and only time playing together would go down as one of the greatest jam sessions in the history of rock and roll.
This smash-hit show brings that legendary night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal, and celebrations. The score features hit songs that defined an era, including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “I Walk the Line,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and more. Million Dollar Quartet has been staged around the world, including at The 2017 Charlottetown Festival.
Performances of Million Dollar Quartet run from June 17–August 30 at the Sobey Family Theatre.
Tickets can be purchased at confederationcentre.com/festival25, via phone at 1-800-565-0278, or in person at the Centre’s box office.
SAT, JULY 19
An evening with award-winning Island songwriter RANDY J. MARTIN
Supported by: Alyssa Harper & Keelin Wedge
harbourfronttheatre.com
SUN, JUNE 8
Acclaimed Island singer songwriter LENNIE GALLANT NEW ALBUM LAUNCH!
THU , JULY 24
Five-time ECMA winning fiddler RICHARD WOOD Through the Years
TUE, JULY 29
A unique spin on country and roots music from
OL BILLY BOB BOY
The cast of Tell Tale Harbour (The 2022 Charlottetown Festival)
Funny as Puck
Brian Patafie comedy show at Florence Simmons—June 24
Former NHL athletic trainer Brian Patafie is bringing the 2025 edition of his Funny as Puck show to the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown on June 24 at 7:30 pm.
Just over three years ago, Patafie finished a 44-year career as an athletic trainer in professional hockey, including almost 20 years with the Calgary Flames. He also spent two years in the ’80s with the Nova Scotia Voyageurs in Halifax.
Patafie kept notes throughout his career, and following his retirement from hockey, he turned those notes into a stand-up comedy routine. He has since shared not only his hockey stories but also tales from his dysfunctional life across North America, as well as on a multi-city, multi-show tour of the UK in 2022.
Patafie will be joined by Ottawa
Slide Piece
Comedy show with a twist at Trailside Music Hall—June 18
Slide Piece: A PowerPoint Comedy Show hits the stage at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on June 18. Showtime is 8 pm.
Slide Piece is a wonderfully weird comedy show featuring a rotating cast of performers—musicians, comedians, actors, improv artists, presenters, and personalities—each preparing and presenting a 15-minute PowerPoint on any topic of their choice… but with a twist. Before the show, host Shawn Hogan secretly inserts one surprise slide into each performer’s presentation. They won’t know what it is or when it’s coming—but they have to roll with it, live on stage, in real time, for the audience’s amusement.
After the presentation, the spotlight turns to the audience, who try to guess which slide was the plant. There’s a
Side Hustle
The Guild—June 20
Side Hustle, PEI’s only all-women improv troupe, returns to The Guild in Charlottetown on June 20 with all-original, made-up-on-the-spot entertainment—laughter, spontaneity, and moments of pure comic genius. Showtime is 7:30 pm. Visit theguildpei.com for tickets.
comedians Chris Connolly and Chad Noonan.
Visit tproatlantic.ticketpro.ca/en/ pages/1636268751 for tickets.
quick Q&A, then the crowd takes a collective guess: which slide was the imposter? Will the performer get away with it—or will the audience spot the odd piece out?
Doors open at 6:30 pm. Visit trailside.ca for tickets.
Bad Words for a Good Cause
Comedy in support The Upper Room Food Bank—June 20
Bad Words Productions brings thier Bad Words for a Good Cause comedy to Hunter’s Alehouse in Charlottetown on June 20.
Tickets are available at eventbrite. com. A portion of the proceeds will go to The Upper Room Food Bank. Hunter’s is located at 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Stompin’ Tom Festival
Concerts, dinner theatre and daily live entertainment
The Stompin’ Tom Centre opens for the season on June 1. Visitors can enjoy daily live music, weekly concerts, a songwriters festival dinner theatre, food and drink, a “shucked-in” experience, and more at the fully-licensed, open-air venue this summer in Skinners Pond.
The Stompin’ Tom Festival Series is an enduring tribute to Tom’s greatest passions: supporting musical talent and showcasing what it means to be Canadian. This year’s festival features Dave Gunning & JP Cormier, Gordie MacKeeman & His Rhythm Boys, Lennie Gallant, Kurk Bernard, Joey Doucette & Jamie Matthews, Cory, and Jay Gavin. Live concerts run every Saturday at 8 pm from June 15 until September 30.
Returning this year, straight from Nashville, is The Nashville Songwriters Festival, part of this year’s Summer Festival Series. The festival is hosted by PEI’s own Ben Chase and will run from August 28–30. The Centre has partnered with Chase, who has curated a lineup of seasoned and up-and-coming songwriters for this three-day festival of song circles and meet & greet events. Anyone who has experienced the Bluebird Cafe or any of Nashville’s iconic sound rooms will love the vibe.
New this year is Believe in Your Country, a Stompin’ Tom-themed dinner theatre production written by Erin Dunn-Keefe. With Dunn-Keefe’s attention to detail and sense of humour, this show features classic Stompin’ Tom
Comedy Night
Steve Patterson joins Patrick Ledwell at Victoria Playhouse
Comedy Night Victoria by the Sea, a two-night-only festival celebrating stand-up comedy and storytelling tradition, will make its debut at Victoria Playhouse on July 7 and 8. Island comedian Patrick Ledwell is bringing this idea to the Victoria stage, and inviting some of his best storytelling friends to join him for the inaugural edition.
Both nights will feature headliner Steve Patterson, stand-up comedian and host of the CBC’s The Debaters. Patterson is famous for keeping audiences across Canada engaged with heartfelt stories, off-the-cuff wit, and original songs. Patterson packs much more than punchlines into his show.
Ledwell will kick off both shows with a new opening set, sharing and
tunes and plenty of laughs. The cast features Chad Matthews as Tom, and Danalee Lynch-Veinotte, Kurk Bernard, and Josee Gallant. Shows run every Tuesday and Thursday from July 1–August 26.
The Centre also features free, live entertainment daily from 1–2 pm. In true Western PEI fashion, it is laidback fun for the whole family. Stomp along, dance a jig, or sing with Kurk. Stick around for the Shucked-In Series, offered every afternoon in July and August. Experience this PEI twist on Newfoundland’s Screeched-In: slurp a freshly shucked PEI oyster, chase it with a shot of PEI Shine, and recite a salty pledge to earn a title as an “Honorary Islander”—complete with certificate.
For tickets, schedule, and additional information, visit stompintomcentre. com, email info@stompintomcentre. com, or call 902-882-3214.
showcasing the brand of honest and smart comedy that has brought him from PEI venues to national stages.
Both shows will be hosted by Matt Rainnie, who recently hung up his microphone on CBC Mainstreet and is looking forward to bringing his storytelling in new directions.
Tickets can be purchased online at victoriaplayhouse.com.
Popalopalots
The Guild—June 21
The Popalopalots bring another unpredictable and outlandish night of hilarity—as only the Popalopalots can—to The Guild in Charlottetown on June 21. Doors open at 7:30 pm, and the show starts at 8 pm. Admission is cash-only at the door.
Musical comedian Jimmy Flynn
Comedian Brian Patafie
Comedian Shawn Hogan
Queerly Canadian
Queerly Canadian—a hilarious and heartfelt drag celebration of all things Canadiana—will sashay into The Guild in Charlottetown for three performances: June 11, 13, and 14 at 9 pm.
This raucous and randy revue features drag personalities Didi d’Edada (portrayed by theatre-maker Jay Whitehead) and her only begotten son, the operatically outrageous Castrati (brought to life by performer and musician Kathy Zaborsky). These two charismatic cross-dressers will bring a uniquely queer, proudly Canadian perspective to the stage in a show brimming with satire, song, and sequins.
their own terms, and delighted audiences from coast to coast.
Didi and Castrati are no strangers to the stage—or to each other. Their creative partnership spans over 20 years of gender- and genre-bending collaboration and performance art, including the cheeky, cinematic music video “Monique’s on Fourth” and the critically acclaimed original musical Castrati—An Electro Drag Opera, which toured nationally and internationally. With razor-sharp wit, their past work has challenged norms, defined drag on
Audiences can expect a fast-paced show packed with characters, nostalgia, original music, storytelling, surprise guests, and Canadian covers of songs by everyone from Alanis to Céline to Shania. It’s a timely production that connects the dots between identity, art, and national pride.
Doors open at 8:30 pm.
Tickets are available at theguildpei. com with tiered ticket prices available for every budget.
SUBMITTED
Scene from Castrati—An Electro Drag Opera
DANCING
Silent Groove in the Park
Silent Groove in the Park takes place every Wednesday this summer at Victoria Park in Charlottetown. Everyone is welcome, and dancers of all abilities can join in their own way with fun, easy steps. Headphones and simple instructions are provided to unite participants on the same groovy playlist. Text 902327-1035 to reserve a spot.
Latin social dance
Downstreet Dance is hosting a new Latin social dance on the first Saturday of every month from 8–10 pm. The next event is June 7. From Salsa to Bachata, Samba to Merengue, all Latin dance styles and levels of ability are welcome. No partner necessary. 101 Grafton St, Charlottetown. downstreetdance.com
Downstreet social dance
This month’s Downstreet social dance will be held on June 21 from 8–10 pm.
All levels and styles of dance are welcome. Participants are encouraged to bring water and dancing shoes or socks. Attendees may catch a special performance or demo class. 101 Grafton St, 2nd floor, Charlottetown.
Volunteer at Downstreet
Volunteers are needed to keep things running smoothly at Downstreet Dance, a non-profit studio in Charlottetown. The studio offers a variety of adult classes year-round and aims to build an inclusive, active community through cultural and social dance practices. Volunteer hours can count toward various programs and may also be exchanged for free dance classes. Fill out a volunteer form at downstreetdance.com. 101 Grafton St, 2nd floor, Charlottetown.
Downstreet programming
Dance classes at Downstreet Dance continue in June. Intermediate Tango runs on Mondays at 6 pm. Tuesday classes include Beginner Bellydancing at 6:30 pm and All Levels 1940s Swing at 7:30 pm. Classic Burlesque runs on Thursdays at 7:30 pm. Saturday classes include Zumba at 10:30 am, Intro to West Coast Swing at 5 pm, West Coast Swing Fundamentals at 6 pm, and West Coast Swing Practice at 7 pm. Sunday classes are drop-in Tango Practica at 2 pm, Samba into Summer Block class (until June 22), Beginner Salsa Cuban Style at 6 pm, and Advanced Beginner Salsa Cuban Style at 6:30 pm. 101 Grafton St, Charlottetown. downstreetdance.com
Under the Spire
Festival kicks off with concerts and community events
Coal miners’ choir Men of the Deeps
Under the Spire, just outside of Kensington, has a full lineup of community events and concerts to kick off the season.
Community events happening in early June include Under the Spire’s annual general meeting on June 3, a pre-season concert with JUNO- and Grammy-nominated choir the Elora Singers on June 3, and a spring cleaning garage sale on June 7.
Live music concerts at Historic St
Mary’s begin with a sold-out season opener featuring blues musician Matt Andersen on June 20, followed by the coal miners’ choir Men of the Deeps on June 22, folk powerhouse Irish Mythen on June 27, and PEI storyteller and folk troubadour Shane Pendergast with his trio on June 29.
Tickets and information for all events can be found at underthespire. ca/2025-concert-series.
Victoria Playhouse summer
43rd season gets underway in late June
PEI’s longest-running little theatre is celebrating its 43rd season this year. The curtain is about to rise at Victoria Playhouse, and with shows running from June 27 to September 8, the 2025 season promises laughter, heart, and rich storytelling as the Playhouse reaffirms its role as a cherished cultural landmark of PEI.
With a diverse lineup of theatre, comedy, music, and more, the Victoria Playhouse will present Seeker: The Surprising Findings with PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis in June and July. July programming includes Comedy Night Victoria by the Sea with Steve Patterson and Patrick Ledwell, as well as Are You There Margaret? It’s Me Gahd featuring Uma Gahd of Canada’s Drag Race Season 5.
In both July and August, audiences can enjoy Campfire Sing-along with Tunes & Tall Tales, Willie Nelson—A Celebration of the Man & His Music featuring Nudie and Bobby McIsaac, and Perk Up, Pianist! with Sarah Hagen. August will also feature a
new work from Tanya Davis—part of the Playhouse’s first ever Playwright In-Residence program. The Ross Family Ceilidh will be presented across July, August, and September.
In addition to these mainstage offerings, the Playhouse will also host a number of free events to help foster community and connection, including the second annual Summer Social on August 10, and a new Patio Tunes series on June 28 and August 30.
Tickets are on sale for all performances. To save a seat, or find more information and the full schedule, visit victoriaplayhouse.com or call 902-658-2025.
Festival of Small Halls
Multiple shows in multiple venues across PEI—June 13 to 22
The PEI Mutual Festival of Small Halls, a traditional music, dance and storytelling festival, returns to rural communities across Prince Edward Island from June 13–22. Over 40 acts across 30 shows will fill community halls and performance spaces from tip to tip.
The signature Shakin’ The Shingles opening show at Historic St. Mary’s, just outside of Kensington, kicks things off June 13. The bill includes Inn Echo, Kellie Loder, Patrick Ledwell, and festival favourite, The Fretless.
For two weeks, Islanders and visitors alike are invited to share in the love of music, dance and storytelling in traditional meeting places steeped with community significance and cultural heritage. Venues like St. Peters Courthouse, Stanley Bridge Hall, and the Stompin’ Tom Centre offer intimate backdrops for these eclectic shows.
Big local acts like Maukin, Vishtèn, Richard Wood, and Joce Reyome will grace the stages alongside rising PEI stars like Noah Malcolm, Shane Pendergast, and Tiffany Liu. Canadian performers include singer-songwriters
Harbourfront
Players donation
Charitable causes receive money for community projects
The Pairs, Nico Paulo, and Wyatt C Louis, and Clerel, Shane Cook, and Les Royal Pickles. Maritime favourites such as Fiddlers’ Sons, Garrett Mason, and Campbell and Johnson are on the bill once again, while comedians Arthur Simeon, Martha Chaves, and Shawn Hogan return to the Festival.
The rich traditions embedded in the artistry of these local and national performers reverberate in the gracious host venues that have been essential to the communities they reside in for years on end. This timeless pairing is a part of why the PEI Mutual Festival of Small Halls has been named Music PEI’s Event of the Year on six occasions.
For the full schedule and list of performers, see pages B16 & B17 of this issue of The Buzz or visit smallhalls.com. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone at 902-892-2308, and in person at the Maypoint Plaza, 161 Maypoint Rd, Charlottetown. Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets early, as performances sell out regularly.
Harbourfront Theatre’s 2024 festive season—the Harbourfront Players donated profits from the production to charitable causes across East Prince.
A total of $5100 in profits from the production has been donated across four local community projects: $2100 to Harbourfront Theatre for the purchase of an automated external defibrillator, $1000 to the Salvation Army Food Bank, $1500 to the Kensington Food Bank, and $500 to the Summerside Community Fridge.
An ALL-OUT Island Christmas! was devised and performed by the Harbourfront Players, a local community theatre company consisting of 10 acting members and two backstage support staff—all volunteers—with professional director Marlane O’Brien, and produced with support from the Harbourfront Theatre team.
Robin Anne Ettles
Brielle Ansems
Cameron MacDuffee
Carlie Howell Emilea May
Max Gallant Greg Gale
Shane Pendergast Julain Molnar
Emi Smith
Mike Ross Kirk White Alicia Toner
Following its production of An ALLOUT Island Christmas! by Karen Slater and Wayne Murphy—part of
PERFORMANCE
music, theatre, dance, comedy…
Mondays | 8 pm
Rat Tales Comedy Night
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
›› until Oct 15 | select dates
Anne & Gilbert—The Musical
Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
June 1 | 2 pm
International Children’s Memorial Place Concert
Annual fundraiserft. Lawrence Maxwell, Mike Dixon, Danny Drouin, and Caroline Bernard, Remi Arsenault, and their sons Riel, Benoit and Maxime. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre Summerside
June 1 | 2 pm
Friends of St. Paul’s Concert
Ft. Phase II, Sarah Hagen, Dean Perry, Amanda Rae Donovan, and the choir. St. Paul’s, Charlottetown
June 1 | 2 pm
Stratford Community Choir
25th anniversary concert
With Kelley Mooney. Spring Park United, Charlottetown
June 1 | 2 pm
Definitely Not the Symphony:
Music to Greet the Spring Steel Recital Hall, UPEI, Charlottetown
June 1 | 3 pm
Revolution Rhythm Showcase
Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlotteown
June 1 | 7 pm
Feast of Music Choir Concert
Ft. Hillcrest Senior and Youth Choirs, A Joyful Sound Community Choir, and The Sibbick Sibling Singers. Hillcrest United, Montague
June 1 | 7:30 pm
The Starlings Choir & Guests
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
June 1 | 8 pm
Daniel Romano’s Outfit
With Uni Boys and Pearly Gates. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
June 2, 8, 15, 22, 29 | 7:30 pm
Kings Ceilidh–A PEI Kitchen
Party
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
June 3 | 7:30 pm
The Elora Singers
Under the Spire, Kensington
June 5 | 7 pm
Sea Songs
Ft. the Capella Regalis Youth Choir (NS). St. Mary’s Anglican, Summerside
June 5 | 8 pm
Island Jazz Quartet
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
June 6 | 7:30 pm
Off The Rock
Tribute to Great Big Sea. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
June 6 | 7:30 pm
Jeff Leeson: Jokes on You
Tour
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
June 6 | 7:30 pm
Fiddle Fandemonium 3
Ft. Richard Wood, Ivan Hicks, Tim Chaisson, Karine Gallant, and Melissa Gallant. Centre 150, Summerside
June 6 | 8 pm
Heartland
Tribute to Petty, Springsteen, Seger and Mellencamp. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
June 6 | 8 pm
More Soul
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
June 6, 7 | 7:30 pm
Country Boys
Tribute to Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Brad Paisley and George Strait.
June 6: Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
June 7: Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
June 6–7 | 8 pm
Inside The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald
Ft. Shane Pendergast, Brielle Ansems, Cameron MacDuffee, Alicia Toner, Greg Gale, and Mike Ross. Harmony House, Hunter River
June 7
Coyote
With DJ Dennison. Sportsman’s Club, Charlottetown
June 7 | 7 pm
Summertime Sillies Comedy
Show
Upstreet Craft Brewing, Charlottetown
June 7 | 7 pm
Kendall Docherty and the Ceilidh in the City Band
Park Royal United, Charlottetown
June 7 | 7:30 pm
Kim Dunn & Terra Spencer
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
June 7 | 8 pm
Jimmy Flynn
Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinner’s Pond
June 7 | 8 pm
Skydiggers
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
June 7, 8
A Joyful Sound: Singing into Hope
June 7, 7 pm: Memorial United, Murray River
June 8, 3 pm: Souris Show Hall, Souris
June 8 | 2 pm
The Listeners’ Room: Jessica Pearson & The East Wind
Hosted by Ward MacDonald and Shane Pendergast. Glenaladale Schoolhouse, Tracadie Cross
June 8 | 3 pm
Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes
Benefit for Kayla Sellick. Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinner’s Pond
June 8 | 7 pm
Great George Street Brass Band
Zion Presbyterian, Charlottetown
June 8 | 7:30 pm
Lennie Gallant Album Launch Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
June 8 | 8 pm
Parabolus
Tribute to Tool. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown
June 11 | 7 pm
East Prince Community Band spring concert
Summerside Intermediate School
June 11, 13, 14 | 9 pm
Queerly Canadian
The Guild, Charlottetown
June 11, 14 | 2 pm
June 12–14 | 8 pm
Behind the Veil: a Lucy Maud Concert Experience
Ft. Alicia Toner, Mike Ross, Brielle Ansems, Carlie Howell, and Julain Molnar. Harmony House, Hunter River
June 11, 13, 14 | 9 pm
Queerly Canadian - A Late Night Drag Revue
Ft. Mama Didi & Castrati. The Guild, Charlottetown
June 12 | 7:30 pm
Salt Water Dollies
Souris Show Hall, Souris
June 12 | 7:30 pm
Gab’n’Greg & Greg’n’Gab Variety show ft. Gabrielle Roddy and Greg Ellard. The Guild, Charlottetown
June 12 | 8 pm
Island Jazz: Isaac Mazer
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
June 12–13 | 8 pm
Irish Mythen
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
June 13 | 7:30 pm
Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
June 13 | 7 pm, June 14 | 2 pm/7 pm, June 15 | 2 pm
Charlotte’s Web
Victoria Playhouse Theatre School. Victoria Playhouse, Victoria
June 13–22 | 7:30 pm
Festival of Smalls Halls
Music, dance, and storytelling. See schedule on pages B16 & B17 in this issue of The Buzz Various halls across PEI. smallhalls.com
June 14 | 7:30 pm
Bad Moon Rising
Tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
June 14 | 8 pm
Rags to Riches
Ft. Max Keenlyside & Les Royal Pickles. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
June 14,15 | 7:30 pm
Sirens: Elements
June 14, 7:30 pm: Park Royal United, Charlottetown
June 15, 3 pm: Hillcrest United, Montague
June 14–Aug 29 | select dates
Tell Tale Harbour
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
June 15 | 2 pm
For The Girls
Ft. Whitney Rose. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlotteown
…continued on page B14
Harbourfront Highlights
Series showcases Canadian talent this summer
Summerside’s Harbourfront Theatre has announced its Summer 2025 Harbour Highlights series of hand-picked works, showcasing talent from across Canada.
The season begins with a concert from Island singer-songwriter Lennie Gallant on June 8, marking the launch of his new 14-song album, Shelter from the Storms.
On July 19, Confederation Bridge construction worker turned songwriter Randy J. Martin returns to the stage, supported by Alyssa Harper and Keelin Wedge.
A Harbourfront summer tradition, on July 20, fiddlers Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy, along with their seven children, return for two performances.
PEI fiddler Richard Wood performs on July 24 with Through the Years, a multimedia concert highlighting his 30-year career.
On July 29, St. John’s, Newfoundland-based artist Ol Billy Bob Boy makes his Harbourfront debut with a performance blending traditional country and roots music.
Following sell-out performances in past years, local bands The Ellis Family
Band and Fiddlers’ Sons return for a double bill on August 13, celebrating music, family, and friendship.
Finally, Queen of Bluegrass and Grammy Award winner Rhonda Vincent and her band, The Rage, return on August 25, following a previous sold-out concert in 2022 and a recent appearance at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry.
Tickets can be booked online at harbourfronttheatre.com, by phone at 902-888-2500, or in person at Harbourfront Theatre.
Watermark Music Series
2025 lineup curated by Sarah Segal-Lazar
Watermark Theatre recently announced the 2025 Watermark Music Series, a three-part summer concert series curated by Sarah Segal-Lazar. This year’s lineup brings together a range of musical styles performed by some of PEI’s most exciting artists.
The three concerts in the series are as follows. On July 27, Canadian Folk: A Tribute to Gordon Lightfoot, Joni Mitchell, and Neil Young will feature Island artists Nudie, Noah Malcolm, and Dianadelirio. On August 10, Swingin’ with the Rat Pack will feature 2025 Music PEI award winners Hikado and Carlie Howell, along with multilingual artist Jorge Peña. On August 24, Golden Year: Hits of 1975 will feature PEI artists Brielle Ansems, Nick Doneff, and Luisa Güiza.
Sarah Segal-Lazar
“This series is designed to celebrate the music that has shaped our cultural landscape, while offering a stage for exceptional artists to reinterpret and revive these timeless works,” says Sarah Segal-Lazar. “Each performance invites the audience on a journey — whether through the poetic heart of Canadian folk, the smooth charm of the Rat Pack era, or the transformative soundscape of 1975.”
Sarah Segal-Lazar is a performer, playwright, and singer-songwriter. Nominated for Folk Music Ontario’s 2024 Recording Artist of the Year, she is passionate about blending music and theatre and spent three seasons as Music Series Curator at Montreal’s Centaur Theatre. She splits her time between Montreal and PEI.
Tickets are on sale at locarius.io/ organizations/26 or by calling the box office at 902-963-3963.
Dundas Fairg rounds
The Kody Norris Show USA
SUBMITTED
Lennie Gallant will launch his new album Shelter from the Storms on June 8
EMELIA HELLMAN
Showtunes
Singalong
A musical afternoon at Beaconsfield Carriage House—June 29
The Showtunes Singalong with Jamie Feinberg invites community members to take part in a musical afternoon of Broadway ballads, uptempo numbers, and more—no stage experience required. Presented by Pink Pony Productions, this event takes place on June 29 from 12:30–3 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown.
For one afternoon, the Carriage House will be set up in the style of a New York piano bar. Audience members are welcome to request showtunes, sing along to well-known songs, and explore a range of Broadway repertoire. Requests are welcome, and tips are encouraged.
The event features Jamie Feinberg, a performer, musical director, and vocal coach with experience in both community and professional theatre. Refreshments will be available for purchase from Red Island Cider, including locally crafted alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
The organizers of this event support 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and advocacy. A portion of proceeds will be donated to PEI’s PEERS Alliance and the Transgender Law Centre in support of equity, inclusion, and community health.
Feinberg is also a mental fitness trainer, speaker, and writer. She founded her own theatre company in New Hampshire in 2010 and relocated to PEI in 2021. She is currently the director of Island A Cappella, a competitive community chorus for women and non-binary people based in Charlottetown. Most recently, she served as the musical director and pianist for ACT’s production of RENT. Doors open at 12 noon.
Visit bit.ly/427WbPG for tickets.
Harmony House
Two unique concerts kick off the 2025 summer season
Two unique concerts kick off the 2025 Summer Season at Harmony House Behind the Veil: A Lucy Maud Concert Experience and Ladies of the Canyon
In Behind the Veil: A Lucy Maud Concert Experience, Alicia Toner and Mike Ross create a concert experience that examines the life and soul of one of Canada’s most iconic and enduring authors—Lucy Maud Montgomery.
Island Songwriters were commissioned to compose original music inspired by L.M. Montgomery’s letters, diary entries, and poetry. This unique Harmony House production will pull back the veil to reveal who Maud really was.
Featuring Brielle Ansems, Carlie Howell, Julain Molnar, with Max Gallant on drums—as well as Alicia and Mike, this tight knit ensemble will bring to life the spirit of a beloved Canadian icon.
There will be only five performances of Behind the Veil, with matinee performances on June 11 and 14 at 2 pm, and evening performances on June 12, 13, and 14 at 8 pm.
In the world premiere of Ladies of the Canyon, Alicia Toner and Mike Ross have created one of Harmony House’s signature docu-concerts, taking audience members on a deep dive into the music of this unique time and place.
Joni Mitchell, Mama Cass, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Carole King, The Eagles—these are just a handful of the extraordinary songwriters who took up residence in the legendary neighbourhood of Laurel Canyon in California. Located just outside Los Angeles, this artist commune created a musical alchemy that birthed some of the greatest songs and artists of the 20th century.
Featuring four of Atlantic Canada’s most electric women—Brielle Ansems, Robin Anne Ettles, Alicia Toner and Emilea May—this distinguished quartet will tell the story of this time in music history and celebrate the songs that came out of Laurel Canyon. Young up and coming performer, Emi Smith, will be stepping in to cover various roles on select dates through the summer.
Ladies of the Canyon will be performed on select dates from June 18 to September 6.
Harmony House Music Hall in Hunter River is a unique and intimate venue less than 20 minutes from Charlottetown, with a licensed pub on the lower level. Visit harmonyhousepei.com for the full schedule, tickets, and more. Tickets can also be purchased by calling Ticketpro at 1-888-311-9090.
Summer Kick-Off Night Market
Free event at Founders’ Hall in Charlottetown—June 21
The Summer Kick-Off Night Market will take place at Founders’ Hall & Market at the Charlottetown waterfront on June 21 from 5–10 pm. This free family-friendly event will feature live music, local eats, and oneof-a-kind vendors.
Headlining the music lineup for the evening, The Love Junkies will bring their high-energy sound.
(top): Julain Molnar, Emilea May, Alicia Toner, and Brielle Ansems (bottom): Robin Anne Ettles, Max Gallant, Mike Ross, and Carlie Howell
Jamie Feinberg
SUBMITTED
For the Girls
For The Girls, starring singer-songwriter Whitney Rose, will be on stage at Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown this summer, with performances on June 15 at 2 pm, and on July 5, July 25, and August 8 at 7:30 pm.
In For The Girls, Whitney Rose and her band pay homage to both widely and lesser-celebrated women who have made lasting footprints in the world of music. For The Girls is “a through-the-decades nod to the women who helped to shape the music industry, the world, and me,” says Rose.
Spanning genres and decades, the two-set concert includes music from Dolly Parton to Taylor Swift and Carole King to Chappell Roan—each delivered with Rose’s personal touch.
Country Boys
At Kings Playhouse and Harbourfront Theatre
Country Boys, a tribute to the music of Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Brad Paisley, and George Strait, will be at the Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on June 6 and Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on June 7.
Featuring Scott Delhunty, Gerald Delhunty, Marc Babin, and Daniel Goguen—along with five other musicians—the show will include many of these country legends’ timeless hits, such as “Chattahoochee,” “Friends in Low Places,” “The Fireman,” and “Mud on the Tires.”
Each member of the Country Boys band has shared the stage with different country music icons like George Jones, Alan Jackson, Alabama, Brooks
Rose blends classic country with vintage pop, crafting a timeless sound that has taken her around the world. Praised by Rolling Stone and The New York Times, she has shared the stage with Emmylou Harris, The Mavericks, Dwight Yoakam, Jason Isbell, and Midland.
Visit tproatlantic.ticketpro.ca/en/ pages/HC_ForTheGirls for tickets.
Ft. Micheal Cloud Duguay with Mathias Kom, Ariel Sharratt, Carlie Howell, Doug
Hoyer, Owen Davies, Andrew MacKelvie, Jeff Reilly, Donald MacLennan, Sara May Jarvie Clark, and more. Rock Barra Artist Retreat, Rock Barra
June 29 | 12:30 pm
Showtunes Singalong with Jamie Feinberg
Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown
June 29 | 2 pm
Sarah Hagen: Perk Up, Pianist!
Victoria Playhouse, Victoria
June 29 | 7:30 pm
Shane Pendergast Trio Under the Spire, Kensington
June 30 | 8 pm
Daniel Drouin Band
Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinner’s Pond
June 30 | 8 pm
Blink-902
Tribute to Blink-182. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
June 30–Aug 1
The Creator’s Plan
The Mack, Charlottetown
July 1 | 2 pm/3 pm
Canada Day Show
2 pm: Al Widmeyer
3 pm: Joey, Jamie & Kurk Band
Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinner’s Pond
July 1
Joel Plaskett Emergency & Two Hours Traffic
Capital City Canada Day Coastal Vibes Stage headliners. Victoria Park, Charlottetown
July 1–Aug 26 | Tues/Thu
Dinner Theatre: Believe in Your Country
Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 | 8 pm
C’mon In: Atlantic Canada’s Best Kitchen Party
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
July 3 | 7:30 pm
Good Ol’ Boys
With William McCarthy. Souris Show Hall, Souris
July 3 | 8 pm
Island Jazz: Harmony Wagner & Rob Drew
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
…continued on page B18
Capital City Canada Day
Family activities, live entertainment and fireworks
Capital City Canada Day returns to Victoria Park in Charlottetown on July 1 from 12–10 pm.
Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy a full day of free, family-friendly activities and live entertainment, culminating in fireworks at dusk. Headlining the Coastal Vibes Stage are Canadian favourites, JUNO Award winner Joel Plaskett Emergency and Charlottetown indie rock band Two Hours Traffic.
For over three decades, Joel Plaskett has proven himself a spinning wheel of reinvention. The Nova Scotia songwriter’s eclectic body of work reveals a restless and playful spirit, always
National Acadian Day
Lineup announced for celebrations in August
Official ceremonies at 12:30 pm will include the raising of the Acadian flag and speeches by community leaders and elected officials.
transforming and expanding. His appetite for new sonic horizons is an integral part of his work.
Two Hours Traffic formed in 2002, and over a 12-year span, they toured extensively in Canada and around the world. The band’s second album Little Jabs was shortlisted for the 2008 Polaris Music Prize. In 2013, Two Hours Traffic played their farewell concerts. Five years later, in 2018, they quietly came out of retirement for what was meant to be a one-off performance, and have been playing sporadically since.
Visit charlottetown.ca/canadaday for the full schedule of events.
The Société Nationale de l’Acadie (SNA), in partnership with the Carrefour de l’Isle-Saint-Jean and Productions du Milieu, has unveiled the lineup for the 2025 National Acadian Day celebrations, taking place on August 15 at the PEI Convention Centre in Charlottetown. This festive event will feature renowned Acadian artists and offer a memorable, nationally-televised musical experience for festivalgoers.
The concert, broadcast on ICI TÉLÉ and ARTV, will spotlight a lineup of artists reflecting the richness of Acadian culture: Zachary Richard, Marie-Jo Thério, Louis Michot, Baie, Marc à Paul à Jos, Vishtèn, Denique Leblanc, Lilianne Cormier, Sirène et Matelot, and Port-aux-Poutines.
Co-hosting the evening are two well-known Acadian personalities: Marcella Richard and Patricia Richard.
Festivities begin with the Gold Cup and Saucer Parade—one of the largest parades east of Montreal, attracting close to 60,000 spectators each year. A lively Acadian Tintamarre will join the parade, featuring community members, Acadian-themed floats, and the distribution of small Acadian flags.
DIVERSE CITY DIVER CITÉ
Confederation Landing, Charlottetown
Sunday, June 22, 2025
12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Confederation Landing Park will host a free family celebration from 1:30–6:30 pm with live music, entertainment, games, food, and the unmistakable Acadian joie de vivre. A youth t-shirt design contest is also underway in Island schools—the winning design will become the official event shirt, available in advance and on-site. An oversized Acadian flag will be on display for attendees to sign with their hometowns. This symbolic flag will later be carried to the evening concert.
The public is invited to the PEI Convention Centre at the Delta Prince Edward Hotel for an exclusive preshow starting at 6:30 pm featuring Louis Michot and special guests.
The nationally televised concert will begin at 9 pm, followed by a festive after-party with Vishtèn and guests—a modern take on the classic kitchen party to end the night on a high note.
More than just a concert, this event is a national celebration of Acadian culture—televised and accessible to audiences across the country.
ROBERT GEORGEOFF
Joel Plaskett (left) and Two Hours Traffic headline the music program
Ft. Chad Matthews and Cheryl Banks. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
July 17 | 7:30 pm
Tara MacLean
With Drea MacDonald. Souris Show Hall, Souris
July 17 | 8 pm
Island Jazz: Striped Shirt Band
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
July 17–26 | select dates
Simply the Best: A Night of Tina Turner
Craig Fair Productions. Stratford Town Hall, Stratford.
July 17–Aug 14 | select dates
Highland Storm
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
July 18 | 7:30 pm
TULUA: Traditional Irish Fusion
Under the Spire, Kensington
July 18 | 8 pm
Stolen Goods Tribute Band
Tribute to Chris Stapleton. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
July 19 | 7:30 pm
An Evening with Randy J. Martin
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
July 19 | 8 pm
Johnny Ross & Family
Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinner’s Pond
July 19 | 8 pm
High Voltage
Tribute to AC/DC. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
July 20 | 7:30 pm
Tara MacLean
With KINLEY and Ben Aitken. Under the Spire, Kensington
July 20 | 7:30 pm
MacMaster Leahy Family Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
July 21
The Old Blue Bus
On the Road to a Dream. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
July 22 | 7:30 pm
Cine-Concert: A Buster
Keaton Evening
Co-hosted by Island Jazz and RPS. The Guild, Charlottetown
July 24–27
The 2025 River Clyde Pageant
New Glasgow
July 24 | 7:30 pm
Richard Wood - Through The Years
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
July 25
Tiffany Liu Trio
Double Hill Cidery, Calendonia
July 25 | 7:30 pm
Okavango African Orchestra Under the Spire, Kensington
July 25 | 8 pm
Island Jazz: Lana Turner Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
July 25 | 7:30 pm
From the Heart
Tribute to Lorette Lynn ft. Jolee. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
July 25 | 7:30 pm
For The Girls
Ft. Whitney Rose. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlotteown
July 25 | 8 pm
Brooke & Brad Play Country Classics
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
July 25 | 8 pm
Brooke & Brad Play Country Classics
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
July 26 | 8 pm
Jonny Ray & Louise Arsenault Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinner’s Pond
July 27
Lennie Gallant
Rendez-vous Rustico.
July 27 | 7:30 pm
Watermark Music Series:
Canadian Folk
Watermark Theatre, North Rustico
July 27 | 7:30 pm
Montreal Guitar Trio Under the Spire, Kensington
July 27 | 2 pm, July 28 | 7:30 pm
Belle Alliance
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Elements
Sirens explore earth, water, air, and fire in song—June 14
PEI treble choral ensemble
Sirens invites audiences to experience Elements, a musical exploration of earth, water, air, and fire, on June 14 at 7:30 pm at Park Royal United in Charlottetown, and on June 15 at 3 pm at Hillcrest United in Montague.
and ensemble through the universal language of nature and song.
Sea Songs
Capella Regalis Youth Choir in Summerside—June 5
Inspired by Katerina Gimon’s evocative work Element, this concert aims to capture the raw energy and expressive beauty of the natural world. Through soaring harmonies and contemporary soundscapes, Elements reflects on the grounding strength of earth, the emotional fluidity of water, the clarity and breath of air, and the transformative spark of fire. This performance promises a vivid and moving musical journey, uniting audience
Singing into Hope
A Joyful Sound performs two concerts in June
A Joyful Sound, led by Christie Beck with accompaniment by Sara White, will present two performances of its spring concert Singing into Hope this month: on June 7 at 7 pm at Memorial United in Murray River, and on June 8 at 3 pm at Souris Show Hall in Souris.
Audience members can expect a little jazz, some folksongs, a touch of gospel and classical fare, a few pop hits, a lullaby, and some silliness—all sung by the joyful members of A Joyful Sound, who have been sharing music and fun with audiences since before 1989.
As part of its ongoing commitment to accessibility and community connection, Sirens Choral Association offers a pay-what-you-can ticket structure this season. There is a recommended admission for Elements, with flexible pricing options available. Audiences are encouraged to contribute what they can, whether more or less, by selecting the “donation” option when purchasing tickets at sirenschoir.com/ concerts. Tickets will also be available at the door.
The choir hopes attendees will leave with a spring in their step and hearts full of hope for a better world.
Admission is by donation at the door. For more information, call 902-978-1943.
Sea Songs—an evening concert with the Capella Regalis Youth Choir from Halifax, Nova Scotia—will be held on June 5 at 7 pm at St. Mary’s Anglican in Summerside.
The concert, directed by Nick Halley and featuring organist Paul Halley, will showcase music from the choir’s new album, Sea Songs—a collection of traditional Maritime sea shanties and original compositions.
For tickets, call 902-888-2234 or visit capellaregalis.com.
United in Praise
San Diego choirs perform at the Kirk—June 25
The combined choirs of La Jolla and Solana Beach Presbyterian Churches, both from the San Diego area, will present a concert on June 25 at 7 pm at the Kirk of St. James, 35 Fitzroy Street, Charlottetown.
The choirs are currently on a music ministry tour through New England, the Canadian Maritime Provinces, and Quebec. Their program features choral and instrumental selections focused on themes of communal worship and renewal.
Following the performance, attendees are welcome to stay and connect with choir members.
Admission is free. Donations in support of the Kirk’s Choral Scholar program will be gratefully accepted.
Noise
Winsloe United—June 15 Make a Joyful
Winsloe United presents a concert titled Make a Joyful Noise, celebrating the 100th anniversary of The United Church of Canada, on June 15 at 7 pm.
Performers include the Winsloe United Church Choir, Courtney Hogan-Chandler, and Kristyn Visser-Perkin.
Anniversary cake and other refreshments will be served following the concert. The church is located at 121 Winsloe Road, South Winsloe.
The Silvertones
Ladies’ choir at Summerside Presbyterian—June 26
The Silvertones, a senior ladies’ choir, will host a fundraising concert at Summerside Presbyterian on June 26 at 7 pm. Accompaniment will be provided by Ivan Tapel, a dedicated mentor, music educator, and pianist. Admission by donation. The church is located at 130 Victoria Road, Summerside.
Sirens choral ensemble
PEI RECORDINGS
Character Traits
Logan Richard
PEI singer-songwriter Logan Richard released his new album Character Traits on May 23. This marks his first release with Outside Music—and his most personal and polished work to date. He is celebrating with an all-ages hometown album release show, featuring special guest Daniel James MacFadyen, on June 21 at 8 pm at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown.
There’s a depth to this record that sneaks up on the listener. Richard’s songwriting is dialed in, and his guitar work is smooth, expressive, and quietly virtuosic.
He says it best: “Each song is its own character trait, telling its own story—from falling in love, to falling out of it, to figuring myself out in adulthood.”
Throughout Character Traits, Richard navigates the trials and tribulations of youth with clear eyes and an uncommonly honeyed voice. The album highlights Richard’s talents as he explores slick pop, spacey R&B, and soulful folk. As the thesis song and title track attests, he’s a 21st-century
renaissance man in both skill and style. Produced by friends and fellow artists David Myles and Joshua Van Tassel, Character Traits is the inevitable result of commitment to craft—a collection of considered and close-tothe-heart songs that provide a detailed picture of a songwriter who’s hitting his stride.
Shelter from the Storms
Lennie Gallant
PEI singer-songwriter Lennie Gallant is set to release Shelter from the Storms, his16th album to date and his first English-language album in seven years. A PEI album release show will take place at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on June 8 at 7:30 pm.
“I am super excited to be sending these songs out into the world by way of this wonderful theatre. We worked hard on this one and early response from those who have heard it has been over the moon,” says Gallant. “Hope you join us for this first concert launch at one of my favourite venues. It’s going to be special!”
The 16-track release is an exploration of these challenging times, yet it’s ultimately a celebration of the human spirit and how love, beauty, and laughter help people deal with, and rise above adversity.
The album’s first single, “Counting On Angels” has been receiving reviews for its heartfelt message and timely resonance, tapping directly into the emotions many people are grappling with today. With songs that span a wide range of perspectives on life and the state of the world, the album is an uplifting ode to rising above troubles faced individually and collectively, through stories of courage and connection. Whether he is reflecting on grand existential questions, capturing poignant moments of human-nature interaction, or radiating pure joy, Gallant’s songwriting takes listeners on a journey that touches the heart in profound ways.
In addition to the Summerside
show on June 8, Gallant’s PEI dates this summer include July 27 in Rustico for Rendez-vous Rustico, and August 15 in Charlottetown for National Acadian Day with Sirène et Matelot. For tickets and more information on all shows, visit lenniegallant.com.
SINGLES
“It Could Be Worse” Coyote
On the recording front, it’s been something of an eight-year hiatus for Charlottetown band Coyote. However, during that time, the band has emerged for a handful of unforgettable shows across the East Coast, playing to sold-out crowds.
In 2025, they will release a new four-track EP titled Hope You Feel It—a collection of songs originally demoed in the summer of 2016, resurrected in the early months of 2025, and given new life through a modern lens to create something contemporary yet unmistakably Coyote.
Once again teaming up with longtime collaborator Colin Buchanan, the band made subtle adjustments in the studio, primarily redefining vocal and keyboard sections, while allowing the heart of the original recordings to shine through.
Listen to the first single, titled “It Could Be Worse,” streaming now. The single’s artwork is by Paul Atwood.
Coyote will perform their upcoming EP Hope You Feel It in its entirety with a show at the Sportsman’s Lounge in Charlottetown on June 7. A DJ set by Dennison will open.
“The Vendome” Richard Wood
PEI fiddler Richard Wood is set to release his latest single, “The Vendome (Radio Edit),” on June 1 across all major streaming platforms. The release is distributed by Symphonic.
Known for his electrifying performances and deep roots in traditional music, Richard Wood delivers a tight, polished version of this crowd-favourite in his new release, which is included in its entirety on Richard Wood Live! 2 An Evening of Celtic Music. This
radio-friendly cut highlights the raw spirit of East Coast fiddle, balanced by sophisticated musicianship and infectious rhythm.
Recorded live by Jesse Périard at Housefront, the track features Wood (fiddle), Kimberley Holmes (keyboard), and Brent Chaisson (guitar/ percussion). Chaisson also mixed and mastered the song at Studio Dimanche. The single’s artwork is by Faye WilliamsWood.
“‘The Vendome (Radio Edit)’ combines traditional roots with meticulous precision and lets us share it in a fresh, punchy way that still keeps the spirit of the original intact,” says Wood. rwood.ca
“Heavy Weight”
Kary Lyn
Toronto-based, PEI-raised singer-songwriter Kari Lyn unveils her soul-baring new single, “Heavy Weight,” a thought-provoking indie folk anthem. Rooted in the rich textures of modern folk, alternative country, and Americana, the track blends rhythmic acoustic grooves with raw, vulnerable storytelling.
Written during a creatively explosive summer on PEI, the song emerged as a reflection of Kari Lyn’s transition into full-time music. Originally titled “I Can’t Stay,” the song began as a story about leaving her hometown, until a pivotal moment in the studio with producer Dan Hosh (Serena Ryder, Arkells) transformed its course. On a whim, Kari Lyn added the track to their session playlist. When Hosh asked why she didn’t love it, his push to rewrite the chorus and bridge reshaped the song and reignited her connection to it. The result? A haunting, honest anthem now fittingly called “Heavy Weight.”
Listen to the new single at karilyn. fanlink.tv/heavyweight or watch the lyric video at youtu.be/f_01Ewh3wjo.
MUSIC FESTIVALS
June 3–September 14
Under The Spire Music Festival
The Elora Singers, Matt Andersen, Men Of The Deeps, Irish Mythen, Shane Pendergast Trio, Cheng2 Duo, Philip Chiu, TULUA, Tara MacLean, KINLEY, Ben Aitken, Okavango African Orchestra, Montreal Guitar Trio, Measha Brueggergosman-Lee, Julie Nesrallah, The Ennis Sisters, Tracy Cantin, Rose Cousins Trio, Champagne Weather, Heather Rankin, Maritime Brass Quintet, Inn Echo, Bayfield String Quartet, Cameron MacDuffee, Lawrence Maxwell Trio, Nick Doneff, Catherine MacLellan, JP Cormier, Dave Gunning, and Adam Cicchillitti.
Historic St Mary’s, Kensington. underthespire.ca
June 13–22
PEI Mutual Festival of Small Halls
Patrick Ledwell, Inn Echo, Kellie Loder, The Fretless, Lawrence Maxwell, Brooke MacArthur, Isaac King, Fiona MacCorquodale, Shane Pendergast, Nico Paulo, Gammons and Knorr, Tanya Davis, Les Royal Pickles, Max Keenlyside, Joce Reyome, Roger Stone, Fiddlers’ Sons, Wyatt C. Louis, Maukin, Martha Chaves, Shawn Hogan, Arthur Simeon, Gordon Belsher, Cynthia MacLeod, Todd MacLean, Jenina MacGillivray, The Pairs, Campbell & Johnston, Richard Wood, Vishtèn, Garrett Mason, Catherine MacLellan, Lucy Farrell, Gadelle, Caroline, Remi & The Family Band, Georgia Harmer, Clerel, Dutch Thompson, Mike Dixon, Atlantic String Machine, Joe H Henry, Gordie MacKeeman and His Rhythm Boys, Ross Family Band, Mary Beth Carty Trio, Encore Dance, Jake Charron, Nick van Ouwerkerk, Shane Cook & The Woodchippers, Tiffany Liu, and Noah Malcolm.
Various venues Island-wide. smallhalls.com
July 4–6
38th Annual PEI Bluegrass & Old Time Music Festival
The Kody Norris Show, The Grass Messengers, Common Ground, Country Connection, Shane Douthwright and The Virtuosos, Janet McGarry Band, The Stiff Family, Bluestreak, Whitecap Drive, The Bad Hoss, SK Bluegrass, Heartfelt Bluegrass, and Bluegrass Revival. Dundas Fairgrounds, Dundas. peibluegrass.ca
July 10–12
Cavendish Beach Music Festival
Shania Twain, Tyler Hubbard, Lainey Wilson, Josh Ross, Stephen Wilson Jr, Wyatt Flores, Bryan Martin, Meghan Patrick, Bayker Blankenship, Sacha,
Adrien Nunez, Tim & The Glory Boys, Tony Stevens, Nate Haller, Abby Anderson, The Wild Palominos, Amanda Rheaume, Justin Fancy, Darryl Worley, Boomtown Saints, Waylon Wyatt, Adam Baldwin & The Jenny Wren, Suzi Kory, MC4D, Hannah McFarland, Pretty Archie, Rum Ragged, Eric Brandon, Inn Echo, Devora, Charlie A’Court, Savannah Jade, Nolan Compton, Daniel James McFadyen, Waylon Napadogan, and Brooke MacArthur.
Cavendish Beach Events Centre, Cavendish. cavendishbeachmusic.com
July 11–13
Evangeline Bluegrass & Traditional Music Festival
Beartracks, Eddy Poirier & Grassline, Bluegrass Diamonds, Ray Légère & Acoustic Horizon, High River, Bluegrass Traditions, Janet McGarry and Serge Bernard, Heartfelt Bluegrass, SK Bluegrass, The Treble Makers, Country Connection, Leon Gallant, Dawson & Les Country Boys, and Jeunes musiciens acadien.
Maukin, The Backyard Devils, JeanFrancois Berthiaume, Louis-Simon Lemieux, Vishtèn, Polky, Steve Riley & The Mamou Playboys, Fiddle Summit, Irish Mythen, Mary Frances Leahy, and the Jack Pine Folk Club.
Union Corner Park Road, Mont-Carmel. festivalroute11.com
August 7–10
Cloggeroo
Josh Ritter, Jenn Grant Trio, Quote The Raven, Garrett Mason, Elliott Brood, Roxy & The Underground Soul Sound, KINLEY, Carson Downey Band, Nick Gauthier, Joe Murphy & The Water Street Blues Band, Koconut Kings, Tiffany Liu, Absolute Losers, Steve Somers & the Red Wing Blackbirds, Max Keenlyside, Hello Mischief, Luka Hall, and Karson McKeown.
Three Rivers. cloggeroo.com
September 13–14
Sommo Festival
Hozier, Alanis Morissette, Jamie Fine, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Michael Marcagi, Alice Merton, Ducks Ltd., Campbell & Johnston, Cameron Whitcomb, Valley, Rich Aucoin, Goodnight Sunrise, Gizmo, Alex Warren, Pvris, Hollow Coves, Chiara Savasta, Brooks & Bowskill, Hunter Metts, IchiBons, King Cruff, Billianne, Charlie Houston, and Customer Service. Cavendish Beach Events Centre, Cavendish. sommofest.com
The Listeners’ Room
Music series at Glenaladale Estate—June 8
Hosted by Ward MacDonald and Shane Pendergast, the Listeners’ Room series celebrates the rich musical culture of Prince Edward Island in an idyllic setting: the Schoolhouse at the historic Glenaladale Estate. The Schoolhouse is modernized, accessible, and air-conditioned, with a stage backdropped by a wall of windows overlooking the historic mansion—and beyond it, Tracadie Bay.
On June 8, the show will feature Jessica Pearson & The East Wind, with an opening set by Shane Pendergast.
Like sirens calling from an ancient shore, the haunting three-part harmonies of Jessica Pearson & The East Wind bind listeners in a timeless folkloric spell. Alchemizing roots, classic country, Americana, and Celtic soundscapes, the trio spins tales of outlaw heroics, matriarchal power, resistance and resilience, and the unrelenting beauty of becoming who you are.
Admission is at the door, which opens at 1:30 pm. Showtime at 2 pm.
Glenaladale is located at 257 Blooming Point Road, Tracadie Cross.
SUBMITTED
Jessica Pearson
PERFORMANCE
music, theatre, dance, comedy…
…continued from page B18
July 28–29 | 8 pm
The Best in Island Comedy
Ft. Patrick Ledwell and Friend. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
July 29 | 7:30 pm
Ol Billy Bob Boy Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
July 31 | 7:30 pm
The Burning Hell & Shotgun
Jimmie: Never Work Souris Show Hall, Souris
July 31 | 8 pm
Kelley Mooney and Route 225
Tribute to Bonnie Raitt. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
July 31–Aug 3
The 2025 River Clyde Pageant New Glasgow
Aug 1
The Polky Band
Double Hill Cidery, Calendonia
Aug 1 | 7:30 pm
Midsummer Magic: Measha Brueggergosman-Lee Under the Spire, Kensington
Union Corner Park Road, Mont-Carmel festivalroute11.com
Aug 3, 17, 24, 31 | 8 pm
The Summer Side of Lightfoot: A Celebration of the Man and His Music
Ft. Nudie. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Aug 4 | 8 pm
Half Moon Run
PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown
Aug 4, 5, 12, 19, 26 | 8 pm
The Best in Island Comedy
Ft. Patrick Ledwell and Friend. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Aug 4, 11, 12
The Old Blue Bus
On the Road to a Dream. Scott MacAulay
Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Aug 5, 12, 19, 26 | 7:30 pm
Kings Ceilidh–A PEI Kitchen Party
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Aug 7 | 7:30 pm
Richard Wood & Friends
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Aug 7 | 7:30 pm
Montuno Cubano Duo
With Luisa Güiza. Souris Show Hall, Souris
Aug 7 | 8 pm
Island Jazz Show #400
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Aug 7–9 | 8 pm
Life in the Fast Lane: A Night of The Eagles
Craig Fair Productions. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Progressive Organ Concert
Three short recitals at three different locations—June 22
On June 22, music lovers can experience pipe organ music performed in a variety of churches as members of the Royal Canadian College of Organists present a Progressive Organ Concert.
This Progressive Organ Concert features short recitals at different locations, one after the other—people walk into a church to attend a 30-minute recital, then head down the street to another church for another 30-minute concert by different artists, and so on— offering a chance to experience some of Charlottetown’s churches.
The concert begins at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Prince Street, with a 30-minute program from 1:30–2 pm. The next recital takes place at Trinity United, also on Prince Street, from 2:30–3 pm. The final portion occurs at
Sarah Hagen
Solo piano recial at St. Paul’s—
June 20
A Little Midsummer Night Music, a solo piano recital with Sarah Hagen, will be held at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown on June 20 at 7:30 pm.
The programme will include works by Debussy, Merikanto, and Chopin.
Known for her insightful playing and humorous commentary, Hagen tours across Canada and internationally.
Great George Street Brass
Anniversary concert at Zion Presbyterian—June 8
Formed in 2015, the Great George Street Brass Band, PEI’s only full brass band, is marking its 10th anniversary with a concert on June 8 at 7 pm. The event will take place at Zion Presbyterian in Charlottetown.
The concert program includes selections from Chess, A Whiter Shade of Pale, Wallace & Gromit, and several Canadian arrangements. The band will be joined by PEI vocal quartet, the Four Hoarsemen.
Admission is by voluntary donation at the door.
Follow @peibrassband on FB.
St. Dunstan’s Basilica on Great George Street, from 3:30–4 pm. A 30-minute break between each recital allows time to travel between venues.
Performers include Leo Marchildon, Louise Elder, Dean Perry, Don Fraser, Tom Loney, Gloria Jay, Sandra Gerreau, Clement Carelse, and Ann Francis. As the event coincides with DiverseCity in Charlottetown, attendees are encouraged to plan ahead for parking.
Admission to any or all recitals is by free will offering. Proceeds will support the Dr. Alan Reesor Scholarship Fund, which helps educate aspiring student organists.
This concert of dreamy and dramatic nocturnal music will be approximately 75 minutes without intermission.
Admission is pay-what-you-will at the door or by e-transfer to sarah@ sarahhagen.com.
East Prince Community Band
Spring concert at Summerside Intermediate—June 11
The East Prince Community Band will present its spring concert on June 11 at 7 pm in the cafetorium at Summerside Intermediate School on Central Street. This multigenerational band brings together players of all ages to create music and offer Summerside a fresh listening experience. The band is always looking for new members— anyone searching for a place to play is encouraged to get in touch at raxawa7@yahoo.ca.
Entrance is by donation.
Pipe organ at St. Dunstan’s Basilica
Evangeline Bluegrass
Traditional music celebration includes young performers
New York’s Beartracks, along with more than a dozen Atlantic Canadian bands, will hit the stage at the Evangeline Bluegrass and Traditional Music Festival from July 11–13 on the Exhibition Grounds in Abram-Village. The festival will also showcase three newer bands made up of teens and young adults.
The special guests at this 23rd annual edition of the festival, Beartracks, have recorded six albums since their inception in 2004. The group includes co-founders, vocalists, and cousins Tom Venne (acoustic guitar) and Julie Hogan (electric bass), along with fiddler Freeman Corey and mandolin player Sten Isachsen. They perform everything from traditional to rock’n’roll- and country-styled bluegrass. Beartracks will perform three times during the weekend: July 11 at 7:35 pm, and July 12 at 3:45 pm and 8:55 pm.
Among the other featured acts are several bands from New Brunswick, including Eddy Poirier & Grassline, Bluegrass Diamonds, Ray Légère & Acoustic Horizon, and High River. Also performing, from Nova Scotia, is the band Bluegrass Traditions. PEI bands taking the stage include Janet McGarry and Serge Bernard of Eastern PEI, Heartfelt Bluegrass, SK Bluegrass, and The Treble Makers. Three younger country-bluegrass bands will be featured for the first time: Country Connection from Nova Scotia, along with Dawson & The Country Boys, and Les Jeunes musiciens Évangéline from PEI.
A pre-festival country show will take place on Thursday from 7:30–10 pm in the Acadian Festival Barn. On Friday night, a Country Music Cabaret featuring Leon Gallant begins at 9:05
pm, also in the barn. Free entry for weekend bracelet holders.
The bluegrass festival’s stage shows begin Friday at 1 pm with an open mic session. The rest of the day features eight sets until 9 pm. Official opening ceremonies will be held at 7:15 pm. On Saturday, entertainment starts at 9:45 am with another open mic, followed by 14 sets throughout the day, wrapping up at 10:30 pm.
Sunday’s eight sets run from 10 am to the closing circle at 4 pm.
Weekend bracelets, as well as day and evening passes, are available at the gate. Camping is available on-site but must be reserved in advance by calling 902-854-3300 or by emailing info@ evangelinebluegrass.com or info@ villagemusical.com. The campground opens July 6. Visit evangelinebluegrass. com for more information.
Souris
Show Hall
2025 season continues in June
The Souris Show Hall’s lineup of events for its 2025 season continues this month in Souris.
First up, Salt Water Dollies take the stage on June 12. On June 15, the Festival of Small Halls presents Kellie Loder & The Fretless. Rounding out the month, Charlie Chaplin Shorts with a live soundtrack will be showcased on June 26.
For the full summer lineup, tickets, and more, visit sourisshowhall.com.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
(top): Beartracks, (bottom, L–R): Bluegrass Diamonds, Eddy Poirier & Grassline, and the Janet McGarry Band
ONGOING MUSIC
ceilidhs, dances, series, sessions...
Aaron’s Jam Jar
Aaron Stevenson hosts a monthly community jam at the Bonshaw Community Centre. The next jams are June 21 from 1–4 pm and July 19 from 2–4 pm. Admission is free and all are welcome. 25 Green Rd, Bonshaw.
Back Home Tonight
The “Back Home Tonight” concert series with host Gordon Belsher returns to the
at the Irish Cultural Centre. Music starts at 7:30 pm. The lineup in June includes: Tip ‘Er Back (Allan Betts, Wade Murray, and Clive Currie) (June 6); Guinness (Jim, Laura, and Paddy Farrell) (13); Dr. Zoo (Randall Arsenault) & Morgan Wagner (20); and the Chaisson Trio (Kevin Chaisson, Louise Chaisson-MacKinnon, and Sheila MacKenzie) (27). Tickets are available at benevolentirishsocietyofpei. com or at the door. 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown.
Dunstaffnage Ceilidh
A ceilidh hosted by Road Masters Band
Burton (June 7); Little Big Band—guitarist/singer Brian Langille, saxophonist Jonathan MacInnis, keyboardist David Gordon, saxophonise Ross MacDougall, and drummer Alan White (14); SEASON FINALE with singer Amanda Jackson & saxophonist/keyboardist Todd MacLean (21). 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: Island Jazz Quartet (June 5); Isaac Mazer (12); Trio from Mars with Chris Coupland (19); Dianodelirio Neo Soul (26). Admission is by donation. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
song and story, music and dance, siblings Stephanie, Johnny, and Danielle explore their deep Island roots, from Acadian and Celtic origins to present day influences. This established group’s latest show is a cultural adventure. Visit victoriaplayhouse.com or call 902-658-2025 for tickets. 20 Howard St, Victoria.
Schooner Sessions
Sessions with Mark Douglas and friends take place weekly on Thursdays at 7 pm at The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Stratford and Area Lions Club
CANADA DAY
Kings Ceilidh: A PEI Kitchen
Kings Playhouse is presenting a new show this summer. Created and directed by John Connolly, The Kings Ceilidh: A PEI Kitchen Party will showcase the unique blend of party and performance that defines a PEI kitchen party. The show features an Island cast of musicians—including Cynthia MacLeod, Lawrence Maxwell, Brooke MacArthur, Luka Hall, and Todd MacLean—serving up Island favourites, East Coast classics, and fiddle tunes. The show opens July 2 then runs weekly on Tuesdays until August 26. Tickets are available by calling 1-888-346-5666, at kingsplayhouse. com, or at the door one hour before showtime. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown.
Michael Pendergast & “Uncle” Tom McSwiggan
A monthly Ceilidh is held on the second Sunday of every month at the Cotton Centre in Stratford. Admission includes a light lunch. Info: Erma Rose 902-569-3956
Summerside Kitchen Party
A matinee kitchen party featuring classic country and old rock ‘n’ roll with Back in Tyme (Blair Coughlin, Peter Burke, George MacPhee, Bob Gagnon) is held at the Summerside Legion on Saturdays, June 7, 14 and 21, from 2–5 pm. Admission is at the door. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.
Sunday Session
An afternoon Tune Session featuring traditional music and craic with host fiddler Roy Johnstone takes place weekly on Sundays from 2–4 pm at The Old Triangle. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
An Irish Trad Night is held every Thursday in the taproom at Village Green. Enjoy free, live music from 7–9 pm. Space is limited. Located at 30 Church St in the old post office/dental clinic in Cornwall.
Enjoy Celtic and Maritime music, traditional and local songs, lively fiddling, step dancing, and plenty of amusing stories. Malpeque Ceilidhs run on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm, June 25–August 27 at Malpeque Hall (Route 20). Stanley Bridge Ceilidhs run on Thursdays at 7:30 pm, June 26–September 25 at Stanley Bridge Hall (4897 St Marys Rd, Stanley Bridge). Hosted by Michael Pendergast and “Uncle” Tom McSwiggan, with Shane Pendergast (vocals/guitar), Andy Doucette (fiddle), and Veronica Murray (step dance). Island strawberries and ice cream are available at intermission. Family-friendly entertainment. Admission is cash only at the door, which opens at 7 pm. Info: 902-836-4310
Orwell Corner Ceilidh
The Orwell Corner Historic Village Board hosts a fundraising ceilidh each month in the Village Hall at Orwell Corner. The next ceilidh is June 25 at 7 pm. A 50/50 draw and a light lunch is included. Admission by donation. Rte 2, Vernon Bridge.
Ross Family Ceilidh
The Ross Family will be on stage at Victoria Playhouse with shows on Mondays at 7:30 pm, from June 30–September 8 (no show July 7). Through
Artist and songwriter Blair “Arnie” Gaudet, joined Wade Carragher (bass), presents a monthly music series in collaboration with the Albert & Crown Pub. Once a month the pair will feature a different artist performing live in a jam-style atmosphere at the pub. On June 14 at 8 pm, the guest is Jordan LeClair. Reservations are recommended by calling 902-853-0000. Info: @albertandcrownpub on FB. 480 Main St, Alberton.
Winsloe United Ceilidh
The next fundraising ceilidhs at Winsloe United run on June 8 and 22 at 2 pm. Host Jacinta MacDonald and the Winsloe United House Band welcome special guests Sandra and Ricky Jones—a husband and wife duo—along with Vernon Smith on June 8. On June 22, Terry Dunsford and Marcella Richard take the stage, with a comedy skit by Barb Perry. The church is wheelchair accessible, and a light lunch will be served during intermission. Admission is at the door, which opens at 1:30 pm. 121 Winsloe Rd, Winsloe.
CAPITAL CITY
Trailside Music Hall
and performances at venues like the Sydney Opera House and Glastonbury Festival.
of the ’80s and ’90s, including “Peace of Mind,” “Backward Town,” “All the Things I Wasn’t,” “What Was Going Through My Head,” “I Am Here,” and “You May Be Right.”
Gordie Sampson
June 29 ›› 8 pm
Skydiggers is a Canadian roots rock band from Toronto, formed by Andy Maize and Josh Finlayson. Since 1990, they have released 19 albums and EPs, and several of their singles have charted in Canada. Their most successful album is Restless, released in 1992.
A globally acclaimed artist known for their raw vocal power, magnetic stage presence, and ability to forge deep connections with audiences, Irish Mythen is originally from Ireland and currently based in PEI. Their career highlights include a JUNO nomination
Influenced in equal parts by the British Invasion of the ’60s and the DIY attitude and immediacy of punk and new wave, the group took the name The Grapes of Wrath in 1983 and began working on the songs that would make up their debut EP (The Grapes of Wrath, 1984) and first album (September Bowl of Green, 1985). The band was signed to Capitol/EMI for Treehouse (1987), Now and Again (1989), and These Days (1991). These records spawned some of the most well-known Canadian songs
A writer and producer with a dynamic on-stage presence and a mentor to emerging writers, Gordie’s musical genius and generosity are applauded by audiences and industry players alike. Raised in the community of Big Pond (population 47), near the rugged, edge-of-the-world coastlines of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Sampson’s songwriting has taken him across the globe. But besides the island he hails from, there may be no place in his story more important than Nashville, Tennessee, where he now lives with his family. He moved to Music City in 2005, and in less than a year, Carrie Underwood had recorded his song “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” which stayed at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for six consecutive weeks and earned Gordie a Grammy for Best Country Song. Since then, Sampson’s songs have been cut by a long list of established artists—including Florida Georgia Line, Luke Bryan, Rascal Flatts, Dan + Shay, Hunter Hayes, and Caitlyn Smith—as well as up-and-comers like Carly Pearce, Caylee Hammack, and Tenille Townes.
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.
Canadian roots rock band Skydiggers
Jane & Kyle
With Gammons & Knorr at The Pourhouse—June
Celebrating the release of their new album Many an Open Ground, Canadian fiddle champions Jane Cory & Kyle Burghout of Winnipeg, MB, bring their cross-Canada tour to Charlottetown on June 24. Catch them at The Pourhouse at 7:30 pm.
Jane & Kyle will be joined by Alanna Jenish (guitar/step dance) and John Mitchell (piano), with special guests Gammons & Knorr opening the show.
Seating is limited. Advance tickets are available at janeandkyle.ca/ charlottetown.
Family tradition
Ross Family Ceilidh moves to Victoria
The Ross Family Ceilidh will be on stage at Victoria Playhouse this summer, with shows running on Monday evenings beginning June 30.
Through song and story, music and dance, siblings Stephanie, Johnny, and Danielle lovingly explore their deep Island roots, from Acadian and Celtic origins to present day influences.
Stephanie (front) and Danielle
Bluegrass & Old Time Music
Annual festival at Dundas Fairgrounds for 38th year in July
The 38th Annual PEI Bluegrass & Old Time Music Festival is being held at the Dundas Fairgrounds in Dundas on July 4, 5, and 6. Headline performers from the USA are The Kody Norris Show and The Grass Messengers. Common Ground and Country Connection will be here from Nova Scotia. From New Brunswick comes Shane Douthwright and the Virtuosos. PEI bands are Janet McGarry Band, The Stiff Family, Bluestreak, Whitecap Drive, The Bad Hoss, SK Bluegrass, Heartfelt Bluegrass, and Bluegrass Revival.
Tennessee are the reigning Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America Entertainers of the Year.
The Grass Messengers, featuring lead singer Chris Luquette, are based in New York State.
Shane Douthwright has been performing bluegrass for 30 years, beginning as a youngster with his family band. The Virtuosos are Marcel Duplessis (bass), Ryan Dillman (banjo), and Richard Bourque (mandolin).
This established group’s latest show is a cultural adventure and sure to lift the audience’s spirit, forging a lasting bond with PEI.
The show runs weekly on Mondays at 7:30 pm until September 8 (no show July 7).
Pendergast & McSwiggan
Ceilidhs in Malpeque and Stanley Bridge
Ceilidhs with hosts Michael Pendergast and “Uncle” Tom McSwiggan, now in their 29th season, take place in Malpeque and Stanley Bridge all summer.
Enjoy an evening of Celtic and Maritime music, traditional and local songs, lively fiddling, step dancing, and plenty of amusing stories. Shane Pendergast (vocals/guitar) and Andy Doucette (fiddle) complete the band, with Veronica Murray as the featured step dancer. It’s family-friendly entertainment with a distinctive PEI flavour. Island strawberries and ice cream are
For ticketing details and more information, visit victoriaplayhouse.com and rossfamily.ca.
available at intermission.
Malpeque Ceilidhs run on Wednesdays from June 25 to August 27 at Malpeque Hall (Route 20), and Stanley Bridge Ceilidhs run on Thursdays from June 26 to September 25 at Stanley Bridge Hall (Routes 6 & 224). Doors open at 7 pm, and shows run from 7:30–9:30 pm.
Admission is cash only at the door. Info: 902-836-4310
The three-day festival includes stage shows on Friday afternoon, Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, Saturday evening, and Sunday, along with Open Mic stages on Wednesday and Thursday for early arrivers. The festival also offers camping facilities, workshops, a children’s program, food services, and late-night jamming sessions. Registration is available at peibluegrass.ca, and an early bird price is available until June 15.
The Kody Norris Show from
Fiddle
Fandemonium 3
Celebrating roots and traditional music at Centre 150—June 6
Richard Wood Live! presents Fiddle Fandemonium 3 on June 6 at 7:30 pm at Centre 150 in Summerside. This high-energy show brings together five dynamic fiddlers and five distinct styles in a rare performance inspired by the popular songwriters’ circle format—fiddlers taking the lead, sharing tunes, stories, and styles.
Joining Wood are Ivan Hicks, Tim
Canada’s Daughter of Bluegrass, Janet McGarry, will take the stage with her husband, Serge Bernard, and bandmates Trevor Boutilier and Karen DaCoste from Nova Scotia’s Bluegrass Tradition.
This year’s line-up also includes Country Connection from Nova Scotia and, from PEI, Bluestreak, The Stiff Family, Whitecap Drive, Heartfelt Bluegrass, The Bad Hoss, SK Bluegrass, and Bluegrass Revival.
Tickets and festival details are available at peibluegrass.ca/tickets or by calling 902-218-8916.
Chaisson, Karine Gallant, and Melissa Gallant. Together, they’ll explore five styles—Old Tyme, Acadian, Irish, Scottish, and Cape Breton—celebrating the deep roots and evolution of traditional music across the East Coast and beyond. Supporting them are Kimberley Holmes and Vivian Hicks on piano, and Brent Chaisson on guitar. The evening also spotlights Samuel Stretch, inaugural recipient of the Wood Family Fiddle Scholarship, and features energetic dance performances by Isla Rousseaux-Bridle and Alexis MacLaren. To purchase tickets in advance, visit square.link/u/7HqYR0Nw?src=sheet, e-transfer richardwoodlive@hotmail. com, or call 902-330-3293. Remaining seats will be available at the door.
The ceilidh at Malpeque Hall
SUBMITTED
Kyle Burghout and Jane Cory
(L–R)(top): The Kody Norris Show, The Grass Messengers; (bottom): Janet McGarry, The Stiff Family, Bluestreak, and Shane Douthright
Arcade by Dennis Ellsworth
Nick Doneff
Nick Doneff grew up in Fort Erie, Ontario, but he has called Charlottetown his home since 2013. Nick spent a good portion of his youth tuned into the Oldies 104 station from Buffalo, NY or listening to a solid collection of hand-me-down records in the basement of his childhood home. He recalls his father entertaining guests at gatherings and bonfires with songs by Bob Seger, The Eagles, and contemporary country or classic rock songs. He admits, country radio or CMT was always on somewhere in the house.
When he graduated high school, he wanted his post-secondary education to be something inspiring. He moved to Toronto where he studied music at Humber College. At Humber, he really started to get a feel for his voice and his songwriting. In fact, over half of his debut album was recorded as a school project while at Humber. During this time, Nick found himself in a romantic relationship with an east coaster with one year of school left to complete. While she finished her studies, Nick bounced around the Toronto scene and when she graduated, they packed up and moved east to Charlottetown.
In 2013, as Nick was arriving, the once brimming scene in Charlottetown was starting to fade. Nevertheless, he bought a PA and started playing any kind of gig he could find. One night while playing at Smugglers Jug, he met Mark Phillips. Mark recognized Nick’s talent and suggested he come by The Haviland Club for the weekly Monday Night Country Music Jam. Here, Nick met Nudie, Wally Young, Mark Geddes, and Thomas Webb.
Through the early days in Charlottetown, Nick relied heavily on cover songs to entertain the audiences
Back Home Tonight
Concert series is back in Stanley Bridge this summer
The “Back Home Tonight” concert series with host Gordon Belsher returns to the cozy and air-conditioned Stanley Bridge Women’s Institute Hall in Stanley Bridge, on Monday evenings from June 16 to September 22.
Belsher has toured worldwide, performing a range of Island music. Audiences can now join him “back home” for an evening of sing-alongs, jigs and reels, ballads, and a few additional selections.
SUBMITTED
he’d found. One day, while playing on the sidewalk outside Back Alley Music (Great George location), Pat asked Nick if he had any original songs, and Nick played him Old Dog. Impressed, Pat started asking Nick to open for artists at Trailside in Mount Stewart. It was here where Nick started to gather steam and build his audience.
In 2018, he played his first show in tribute to one of his musical heroes, John Prine. This show was extremely well received and has gone on to become an anticipated annual event, happening every year around Prine’s October birthday. Every year, Nick plays host to a cast of local singers and songwriters who all contribute their takes on John Prine’s wonderful songs. There has been plenty of interest from theatres all around the east coast, but so far Nick has opted to reserve this show for Charlottetown.
As a sideman, he has played for Tara MacLean, Meaghan Blanchard, Nudie, Lawrence Maxwell’s tribute to Merle Haggard, The Good Ol Boys, and Liam Corcoran. Also, since their reformation, Nick has been a member of Two Hours Traffic. There is no doubt he has woven himself into the fabric of the Island’s music scene. He is respected and recognized for his terrific songwriting, his storytelling, his charm and wit on stage and off, and his musical skill.
Nick has released a self-titled debut album and his follow-up, Late August Days. Recently, he put out a new single called “Sixteen Tons (It’s Gonna Have to Do).” He’ll be busy promoting a new Two Hours Traffic EP this spring and summer, but you can find him at Under the Spire in September performing songs from the Paul Simon songbook, as well as his annual John Prine tribute in October.
PEI multi-instrumentalist Todd MacLean (Gordon’s son-in-law) is a highly sought-after PEI entertainer, weaving together his saxophone mastery, piano skills, and ukulele and percussion. From blues to Celtic, pop to folk, Todd’s musical versatility and genuine love of music shine bright.
One of PEI’s finest ambassadors of traditional music, Cynthia MacLeod has toured across Canada and throughout New England for years, along with hosting the popular Brackley Beach Ceilidhs. Her joyful, charismatic
Ceilidh in the City
personality shines through in her playing, and her natural way with audiences turns strangers into instant fans.
PEI’s “Red Headed Fiddler,” Courtney Hogan-Chandler, is well known for hosting her own ceilidhs for over 15 years, with four CDs, numerous Music PEI Award nominations, and her own ceilidh cookbook to her credit. Her ability to move seamlessly from lively jigs and reels to slow airs has entertained audiences for decades. Each show will feature an infectious combination of three of them. For the complete schedule and to book seats, visit gordonbelsher.com. Doors open at 7 pm, show starts at 7:30 pm.
MORE MUSIC
Informal jam session
Pre-season fundraising concert at Park Royal—June 7 SUBMITTED
Ceilidh in the City is kicking off early with a special pre-season fundraising performance at 7 pm on June 7 at Park Royal United in Charlottetown. Featuring Kendall Docherty and the Ceilidh in the City Band, the concert is in support of the church’s ongoing community programs and outreach initiatives.
The band includes Kendall Docherty (vocals, keyboard), Peter Burke (vocals, rhythm guitar, harmonica), Brian Knox (drums), and Brian Blacquiere (guitar, banjo, fiddle).
Tickets are available through Eventbrite, at the church office, or at the door on the evening of the performance (cash only). Admission is free for children.
The next jam sessions for adults at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) will be held on June 9 and 23 at 6:30 pm. Bring an instrument or borrow one from the library and join other musicians for an informal evening of playing music.
Pipes & Pizza
Pipes & Pizza, an introduction to the pipe organ offered by Leo Marchildon and members of the Royal Canadian College of Organists (RCCO), will take place in the choir loft of St. Dunstan’s Basilica, 45 Great George St, in Charlottetown on June 28 at 10 am. Music students will have the opportunity to try out the three manual Casavant and receive helpful hints on how to adapt their pieces for the King of Instruments. Following an “organ crawl” and instructive demonstration, the students and parents can enjoy fellowship and pizza downstairs. Admission is free but registration is required by contacting Leo at leomarchildon88@gmail.com.
Friday, June 13th
(clockwise from top-left): Gordon Belsher, Cynthia MacLeod, Todd MacLean and Courtney Hogan-Chandler
Songs on fire
Monthly series focuses on the creative process of songwriting
Songs on Fire: Live and in the Round, a monthly concert series by Canadian songwriter and composer Ben Kunder, continues at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on June 24.
Each month, Kunder is joined by two guest songwriters for an evening of songs and chats the explore “the how and why we write songs.” This community-focused show offers audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the secrets of songwriting.
Showtime is 8 pm, with doors open at 6:30 pm. Tickets are available at trailside.ca.
Blink-902
Live show and Pop Punk Dance Party—June 30
Catch Blink-182 cover band Blink902 live at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on June 30 at 8 pm.
It’s a standing-room-only show with the band, who will kick off the night by playing the 1999 album Enema of the State from front to back, followed by a set of other favourites spanning the entire Blink-182 catalog.
After the show, the band is hosting the Pop Punk Dance Party next door at PonyBoat, and the Trailside ticket provides free admission.
For tickets at Trailside visit trailside.ca or call 367-3311. 155 Kent St, Charlotteotwn.
Industry in Residence
Violent Femmes bassist
Brian Ritchie to visit PEI
Legendary alt-rock band The Violent Femmes are touring Canada this summer, but before they get on the road, founding member and bassist Brian Ritchie is coming to PEI to get to know Island musicians as part of the Island’s first Industry in Residence programme.
Ritchie’s resume is impressive: as well as being part of one of the world’s best-loved and most enduring bands, he was the first—and only—curator of MONA FOMA, the Festival of New and Old Art in Tasmania, for 17 years, where he conjured up line-ups that featured artists like Nick Cave, PJ Harvey, John Cale, Philip Glass, Laurie Anderson, FKA twigs, The Flaming Lips and Bikini Kill; is proficient at the shakuhachi—so much so that he acquired a teaching licence; and is a prolific international multi-genre collaborator.
“Brian…[has] got such diverse experience,” explains Chloe Goodyear, who has been working with the province on projects to support the Island’s musicians. “He’s worked with some of the most famous artists and biggest stages in the world, but he also has genuine interest in so many forms and levels of music and musicians.”
Wobblefest
Solar-powered performances at Rock Barra—June 28
On June 28, a team of artists led by Canadian composer and producer Michael Cloud Duguay will be hosting a special, one-day event featuring a unique approach to the performance of his recent album release, Wobbly Yonder
Wobbly Yonder was recorded at multiple locations around the east coast of PEI in June of 2022. Co-produced by the Burning Hell’s Ariel Sharratt and Mathias Kom, the project utilized engineer Jake Nicoll’s solar-powered camper RV/mobile recording studio (The Scamper) to record in spaces including East Point Lighthouse, Souris Show Hall, Rock Barra Artist Retreat, and multiple outdoor locations.
On June 17, Ritchie will be “In Conversation” at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown at 6:30 pm. He will talk about his life as a musician, tell stories from the road, and give his impression of music today. This event is free to both Island musicians and the general public, but registration via trailside.ca is essential.
Ritchie will also be available for several days of one-on-one consultation. Island artists and industry can register for 20-minute sessions through Music PEI (visit musicpei.com) from June 1, and do not need to be Music PEI members to do so.
Some of the recording locations for the album Wobbly Yonder
Wobblefest, sponsored by the Canada Council for the Arts, will feature solar-powered live performances of the album material on the grounds of Rock Barra on June 28 (time TBA). Performers include Mathias Kom, Ariel Sharratt, Carlie Howell, Doug Hoyer, Owen Davies, Andrew MacKelvie, Jeff Reilly, Donald MacLennan, Sara May Jarvie Clark, and more. The event offers a unique, immersive experience to audiences, and a one-of-a-kind “music festival” experience. Visit michaelcduguay.com/shows or follow @michaelcloudduguay on socials for updates.
Brian Ritchie
Songwriter and composer Ben Kunder
LIVE MUSIC
Albert & Crown Pub
Joey Doucette (June 5/12/19/16 @8 pm); Crystal Paynter & Cory Gallant (7 @7 pm); Louise & Jonathan Arsenault (13 @7 pm); Very Best of Up West with Jordan LeClair (14 @8 pm); Alyssa Harper & Jim Williams (21 @8 pm); Blair Gaudet (27 @6 pm); Crystal Paynter & Joey Doucette (28 @7 pm). 480 Main St, Alberton.
Baba’s Lounge
Fridays & Saturdays (10 pm)(*unless noted): Plain Dirty Blues (May 31 @5 pm); DJ Hype Retro Night (31); Jo Chevrie (June 6); BraedonV DJ Night (7); Ice Cream Social, Sam O, We Bully Clouds (13); Riptyde (14); Emo Night (20); Connor Fox Trio (21); Riley Burns (24 *Tue @8 pm); Javier & Diego (27); Adjust the facts (28); Plain Dirty Blues (28 @5 pm). Open Mic with KINLEY on Wednesdays (9 pm). Island Jazz on Thursdays (8 pm). Karaoke on Mondays (10 pm). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Boonoonoonoos
Karaoke on Saturdays (9–11 pm) with KiiKii Rose & DJ Selecta Chevron. 177 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Bogside Brewing
Fridays & Saturdays (6:30–9:30 pm)(*unless noted): Steve Zaat (May 31); Carter MacLellan (June 6); private event (7); Margarita Wayne (13); Lisa Birt (14); Brian Dunn (20); Barry O’Brien (21); Rodney Perry (27); private event (28); Lisa Birt (29 *sun @3 pm). 11 Brook St, Montague.
Brothers 2
Thursdays (7–9 pm) & Fridays (7–10 pm): Logan Maddix (June 5); Danny Drouin (6/19); Marc Coughlin (12); D’Arcy & Moe (13); Nick Hann (20); Jordan Cameron (26); Todd & Chris (27). 618 Water St, Summerside.
Charlottetown Beer Garden
Richie Bulger Duo (June 5/12/19/26); Kim Albert Band (6/13/20/27); Adam MacGregor & The Foes (14/21/28). Late night DJ Dance Party on Saturdays: Josh Hood (7); Derek (14); Method (21); Douce (28). 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Charlottetown Legion
Saturdays (9:30 pm–12:30 am): Kim Albert (May 31); Wrecking Crew (June 7); No Turmoil (14); Miller Creek (21); Kim Albert 28). All are welcome. 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.
Craft Beer Corner
Live DJ on Saturdays (10 pm). 156 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Evermoore Brewing
Tuesdays (6–8 pm): Nick Doneff (June 3); Adam MacGregor (10); Marc Ekins (17) TBA (24). 192 Water St, Summerside.
The Factory
Late Night DJ Party on Fridays & Saturdays): Derek (June 6/27); Douce (7/13/20); Method (14/28); Josh Hood (21). 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
FiN Folk Food
Live music (6–8 pm): Shane Pendergast (June 4/11/18); Maxine & Bruce (6/13); Nathan Carragher (16/23/30); Mat Hannah (25). 106 Beach Rd, Grand Tracadie.
Founders’ Food Hall & Market
Fridays (4:30–6:30 pm) & Saturdays (5–7 pm): Martin Watson (May 31); Brian J Dunn (June 6); Jordan Cameron (7); Claude Bergeron (13); Caitlin Robinson (14); Luka Hall (20); Night Market Kick Off with The Love Junkies (21 *time TBA); Adam MacGregor (27); Fraser McCallum (28). 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.
Gahan House
Fridays & Saturdays (9–11 pm). 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
Harmony House Lounge
Jazz in the Lounge on June 4 (7–9 pm). 19814 Rte 2, Hunter River.
The Hub Lounge
Friday (6–9 pm) and Saturday (1–4 pm) (*unless noted): Wayne Gallant (June 5 *thu @12 pm), Ashley Gorman (5 *thu @5 pm); Wayne Gallant (6/26); Steve Zaat (7); David Woodside (13/20); Ashley Gorman (14); TBA (21/27). Andersons Creek Golf Club, 68 North Rd, Stanley Bridge.
Hunter’s Ale House
Brad & Griff (June 5/12); Magic 93 (7); Isaac King Duo (19/26); Copycat with guests (20); Soul Filter (21); Don & Laura (24); The VLTs (27); Crimson Clay (28). Open mic on Mondays with Travis. Corner of Kent & Prince Sts, Charlottetown.
Kettle Black: Stratford
Open Mic with NiQi Deveaux & Brian Bradley on Sundays (1–4 pm). 17 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford.
Lone Oak Brew Pub
Thursdays (6–8 pm): Craig Fair (June 5/12/19); Mike Stratton (29). Live DJ on Fridays (6–9 pm). 15 Milky Way, Charlottetown.
Montague Legion
Karaoke on Fridays (8 pm) with Gloria. 15 Douses Rd, Montague.
Next Door @ The Merchantman
Thursdays (6–8 pm) and Fridays (12–2 pm/6–8 pm) and Saturdays (12–2 pm/5–7
pm): Wayne Gallant (June 5); Sydney Thompson & Luka Hall/Ryan Merry (6); Wayne Gallant/Ryan Merry (7); Brian Dunn (6); Sydney Thompson & Luka Hall/Ashley Gorman (13); Brian Dunn/Wayne Gallant (14); Rodney Perry (19); John MacAllar/Mike Stratton (20); Wayne Gallant/Gordon Butler (21); Brian Dunn (26); Wayne Gallant/Wayne Gallant (27); Adam McGregor/Kev McPhee (28). 23 Queen St, Charlottetown.
North Rustico Lions Club
Saturdays (8–11 pm)(*unless noted): Kelly Buote (June 7); TBA (14); The Rod & Blake Duo (20 *Fri @7:30 pm); Gypsy Soul (21); No Turmoil (28). Jam Night on Tuesdays (7 pm start). 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.
The Old Triangle
Fridays & Saturdays (8–11 pm). 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Olde Dublin Pub
Keira Loane (June 5/12 @7:30 pm); Gordon Butler (6 @6 pm); Main Street Bullies (6 @10 pm); Saul Good Duo (7 @6 pm); Gypsy Soul (7 @10 pm); Richie Bulger & Trevor (11/18/15 @7 pm); Dan Doiron (13 @7 pm); Stratton & Kays (14 @6 pm); Wannabeez (14 @10 pm); Gordon Belsher & Cynthia MacLeod (15/22/29 @7 pm); Lawrence Maxwell (16/23/30 @7 pm); Robbie Doherty (17/24 @7 pm); Vintage 2.0 (19/26 @8 pm); Vintage 4.0 (20 @10 pm); Ross Family (21 @1 pm); Robbie Doherty & Pierce Clarke (21 @6 pm); Boys In The Kitchen (21 @10 pm); Dan Doiron (27 @6 pm); Brad Milligan (27 @10 pm); Ryan Merry (28 @6 pm); Roundabout (28 @6 pm). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
Peake’s Quay
Saturdays (7 pm/10:30 pm): Mike & Karen Penton/Crimson Clay Band (May 31); Sarah Jenkins/Danny Druin Band (June 7); Acoustic Brothers/Brad Milligan Band (14); Billy White/Magic 93 (21); Brian Dunn/Wannabeez (28). 11 Great George St, Charlottetown.
PEI Brewing Company
Acoustic Fridays (4–7 pm): Stephen Szwarc (30); Brothers MacPhee (June 6); Lawrence Maxwell (13); Adam MacGregor (20); Ethan MacPhee (27). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.
PonyBoat
DJ Gufaah & DJ Mando on Fridays and Saturdays (11 pm). 157 Kent St, Charlottetown.
RCAF Wing Summerside
Saturdays (9 pm): Nightshift (May 31); Neon Country (June 7); Nightshift (14); Roundabout (21); Dunk River (28). Karaoke on Sundays (7–10 pm). 329 North Market St, Summerside.
Salvadore Dalí Café
Got Blues Matinee on Saturdays (2–4 pm *until June 21). Brunch Matinee with Emma Clark & Ben Aitken on Sundays (2–4 pm). 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Slaymaker & Nichols
Nick Gauthier on Fridays & Sundays (2–5 pm). 82 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown.
St. Luke’s Hall
Wednesdays (7:30 pm): Jason Campbell & Kevin Arthur (June 4); Johnny Ray & Louise Arsenault (11); Sandra & Ricky Jones and the Kitchen Party Band (18); Crystal Paynter & Cory Gallant (25). 1020 O’Leary Rd, O’Leary.
Summerside Legion
Back in Tyme on June 7, 14 & 21 (2–5 pm). Karaoke on Thursdays (7:30 pm) with Lesa Coughlin. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.
Tekila
Fridays & Saturdays (7–9 pm). 165 Prince St, Charlottetown.
Upstreet Craft Brewing
Jeffrey Morris (June 6 @7:30 pm); Jacob R (13 @7:30 pm); Ashlyn Johnstone (27 @7:30 pm); Stratton & Kays (28 @7 pm). Open Mic with Basil Wong-Southey on June 21 (7–10 pm). 41 Allen St, Charlottetown
Village Green Brewery
Karaoke on June 14 (9–11 pm) with Christina MacLean. 30 Church St, Cornwall.
For updates throughout the month visit
buzzpei.com
BUZZ IFIEDS
DOWNSIZING SALE. Vintage, curios, several large framed prints AND one 1864 Four-Poster Bed. Argyle Shore. By appointment only. Call 902-675-3221.
PROFESSIONAL ART
PRODUCTS. Bailey Studio Gallery offers the highest, professional calibre painting supplies to be found in Canada - including Gamblin Oils, Libeco Linen, Meeden Easels and Boxes, Rosemary & Co and Princeton Brushes. www.professionalart.ca.
2025 ECMA Awards
Wins for PEI’s Vishtèn, Noah Malcolm and Ghislaine Cormier
The 37th East Coast Music Awards: Festival & Conference, hosted by the East Coast Music Association (ECMA), was held in St. John’s, NL, in May.
PHOARTS STUDIO NOW
OPEN—Seasonal Only! Visit 108 John Paul Rd in beautiful AbramVillage to explore stunning photography, digital art, and paintings by local island artist Leona Arsenault. (902) 315-1747
BRANCH MANAGER TREE
SERVICE—Full-service arborists handling trimming, removals, and stump grinding—Island-wide. Safe, reliable, and professional. Call (902) 888-7729 for a free quote
SILENT DISCO at Victoria Park w/ Groove™️PEI. All welcome, suitable for all abilities. Text for next day/time & to reserve your headset $10. 902327-1035. Private group bookings also available. #getgrooved
RUN A BUSINESS? I build websites and help businesses that serve their community show up on Google—so you’re easy to find online! Call (800) 988-3252 or visit www.PEISEO.com
SHOP SUSTAINABLY WITH RECYCLED RUNWAY, offering size-inclusive thrifted and vintage women’s fashions. Follow us for Thrift Thursday drops on Instagram and shop in-person by appointment or at events! Instagram: @ recycledrunwaypei
TEXT ONLY BUZZIFIEDS
30 words for $25 (+tax). Buy in bulk to save—6 months for $125 (+tax).
Ghislaine Cormier received the Stompin’ Tom Award for PEI, which honours individuals from each of the ECMA’s five geographical regions who have made long-term contributions to the East Coast music industry and helped pave the way for today’s successful artists. Cormier is the Executive Director of the Fédération culturelle de l’Île-duPrince-Édouard, where she leads cultural and artistic development for the Acadian and Francophone community. As a producer of Festival Route 11 and a champion of professional and export development, she works to amplify the cultural vitality of PEI’s Francophone artists and organizations.
PEI singer-songwriter Noah Malcolm earned the 2025 ECMA for Pop Release of the Year for his song “January.”
Vishtèn Connexions brought home three 2025 ECMA Awards, winning Folk Release of the Year and Fusion Release of the Year for “Kouma,” and Album of the Year for Expansion, a major achievement and a first for an Acadian and francophone band.
In 2022, the PEI Acadian band Vishtèn suffered an immense loss
TRIVIA
Bogside Brewing
Tuesdays (6:30 pm). 11 Brook St, Montague.
Churchill Arms
Tuesdays (8:30 pm) with Henry. Saturdays (2 pm) with Wade Babineau. Reserve by calling 902-367-3450. 89 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Copper Bottom Brewing
Fridays (7 pm) with PEI Beer Guy. 567 Main St, Montague.
The Factory
Entertainment Trivia Thursdays (7 pm) with Darcy Campbell; Music Bingo on Saturdays (8 pm) with Darcy Campbell. 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Hopyard
Wednesdays (8 pm) with Hank. 151 Kent St, Charlottetown.
with the death of group co-founder Pastelle LeBlanc. In the wake of this tragedy, the other two band members, Emmanuelle LeBlanc and Pascal Miousse, launched Vishtèn Connexions, a project dedicated to completing and sharing Pastelle’s unfinished compositions. This project honoured her musical vision while opening the door to new collaborations and artistic evolutions.
The musicians who collaborated on the album are De Temps Antan, Catherine MacLellan, 6 Hearts, Cédric Dind-Lavoie, Julie Pellissier-Lush, Seckou Keita, Catrin Finch, Rowen Gallant, and Jesse Périard.
The full list of 2025 ECMA winners is available at ecma.com.
The Hub Lounge
Thursdays (7 pm) with Barry Parsons. Andersons Creek Golf Club, 68 North Rd, Stanley Bridge.
Hunter’s Ale House
Sundays (9 pm) with Andrew Rollins; Thursdays (9 pm) with Darcy Campbell. 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Lone Oak Brewing Co
Fridays (7 pm) with Bailey Dawson or Cody Dawson. 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.
North Rustico Lions Club
June 6 (7:30 pm) with Barry Parsons. 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.
Village Green Brewery
Saturdays (7 pm) with Bryan Carver. 30 Church St, Cornwall.
Upstreet Craft Brewing
Trivia on June 5 & 29 (7 pm) with Miz Majestix. 41 Allen St, Charlottetown.
Expansion by Vishtén Connexions wins ECMA Album of the Year
SQUARE Ruby grap hic design
PEI Shellfish Festival
Returning to Charlottetown for 29th year in September
The 2025 PEI International Shellfish Festival presented by the Dairy Farmers of Canada, returns to the Charlottetown Event Grounds from September 18–21. Now in its 29th year, the Festival continues its vision to grow as a world-class culinary event and one of the world’s leading shellfish festivals. This year promises four jampacked days of feasting on shellfish, high- calibre competition, and headline entertainment.
Hightlights include celebrity Chef Corbin Tomaszeski (Food Network
Canada, Restaurant Makeover) leading high-energy culinary demos on the Main Stage; Signal Hill, The Trews, and Vishtèn performing live under the big tent; high-stakes oyster shucking, mussel industry and cooking competitions; and four days of feasting, celebration, and East Coast hospitality.
Tickets are on sale now at peishellfish.com with early bird pricing available until August 31. The PEI International Shellfish Festival is a project of the PEI Aquaculture Alliance and PEI Shellfish Association.
Game On
Island Pro Wrestling at PEI Brewing Company—June 7
Island Pro Wrestling returns with Game On at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on June 7 at 6 pm.
Game On will feature the first round of a tournament to crown a men’s Heavyweight Champion. There will be multiple women’s wrestling matches and the PEI Championship will be defended.
Spectators will see Maritime wrestlers “The Vandal” Chantal, “The Muscle Beast” Wesley Pipes, Logan Green, Bobby Boyette, The Giant Orion, The Maritime Luchador Fantana, PEI Champion Zane Valentine, and more. Flying in to compete are TNA, OVA and ROH veteran Alex Silva, “That Girl” Dani Leo, and “Real & Raw, The International Draw” August Artois.
This is an all-ages show. Visit islandprowrestling.com/event-details/ ipwgameon for tickets.
KARAOKE
Boonoonoonoos
Saturdays (9–11 pm) with KiiKii Rose & DJ Selecta Chevron. 177 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Baba’s Lounge
Mondays (10 pm). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
The Factory
Thursdays (10 pm) with Jack. 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Montague Legion
Fridays (8 pm) with Gloria. 15 Douses Rd, Montague.
North Rustico Lions Club
June 13 & 27 (8 pm) with Len Skinnner. 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.
RCAF Wing Summerside
Sundays (7–10 pm). 329 North Market St, Summerside.
