The Buzz - May 2024

Sylvia Ridgway (detail)

Wild Journey Holland College Visual Arts Student Showcase

Holland College School of Visual Arts presents its 2025 Student Showcase, Wild Journey, a captivating exhibition of creativity and innovation. The show features work by students from the Fundamental Arts, Graphic Design, Photography & Videography, and Video Game Art and Animation programs, on display at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery’s Upper East Gallery until May 25.

The showcase offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and celebrate the imaginative projects and artistic growth of Holland College’s talented students.

Wild Journey invites audiences to experience a diverse array of visual storytelling, design, and interactive art that reflects the passion and dedication of the next generation of creators. Students were asked to reflect on their own wild journeys of creativity and use those experiences to inform their visual creations.

April Condon, Graphic Design instructor, said the showcase will feature individual pieces of work unified by the theme.

“Seeing the students’ journeys come to life through their art is

incredibly inspiring. Not one person has travelled the same path to get to this moment, and each of our students will continue to use their creative skills in ways that we cannot fully predict. The ever-changing landscape of visual arts will continue to transform, but there will always be a place for creative and talented visual problem solvers. This exhibit is a culmination of years of creative effort that shows the viewers where they have been, where they are, and where they want to go on their unique wild journeys,” she says.

The Time of Our Lives

Seniors College art show and sale

The Time of Our Lives, featuring the artwork of PEI Seniors College students and instructors, will be showcased at Ellen’s Creek Gallery and Framing from May 5–16, with an opening reception on May 9 at 7 pm. There will be refreshments, and everyone is welcome.

This is the 13th year for this group show, with some old favourites exhibiting and lots of new faces as well. Many of the pieces will be for sale.

The show will feature works from all of the art classes, including watercolour, acrylic, drawing, and mixed media.

Seniors College is open to anyone over 50. It is a great opportunity to learn something new across a wide variety of topics. The camaraderie

among the students adds a lot to the enjoyment. A full list of Seniors College courses, schedules, and descriptions is available at seniorscollege.ca.

Ellen’s Creek Gallery and Framing is located at 525 North River Road in Charlottetown. The gallery is open Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm.

(clockwise from top): Kiara MacKenzie (Photography and Videography), Cierra Gallant (Fundamental Arts), Gerard Silva (Graphic Design), and Jordan Jenkins (Video Game Art and Animation)

The Fall Harvest, acrylic by Flora Martin

Profile: Nick MacDonald by Julie Bull

Grounded in song

Nick MacDonald is a heartfelt and enthusiastic teacher and learner, sharing his love of music education and artistry with the world. He picked up the guitar when he was 10 years old and started singing in choirs when he was in high school. Growing up in New England, there were opportunities for him to participate in choral festivals and tours where he was able to sing with and learn from a variety of people. He shared stories of these formative learning experiences, including a time in France when there were some language barriers that were overcome while sharing songs with another choir. “Even in cases where there may be language barriers, music is universal. It’s not about being the best singer, it’s about connecting through song.”

Throughout his early adulthood, Nick was actively engaged in teaching music and choral directing, working with singers of all ages in public and private schools as well as community choirs and private lessons. “I am passionate about both the expressive and educational sides of music.” This dual interest serves him well in

sound. “I’ve learned from some of the best in the field and I enjoy practicing these approaches as a way to help my singers and myself regulate and stay grounded.” With a wide range of interests in music, Nick takes an embodied approach to both the creative and technical aspects of singing. “It’s about bringing the body into the conversation, regulating our nervous systems, and sharing our voices.”

This embodied approach comes alongside a lifetime of interest in and connection to the natural world. We met during the in-between seasons of winter to spring and Nick commented on the seasonal and cyclical nature of his work and song. “Nature is such an incredible teacher, and those lessons always tend to make their way into my musical programming.”

This connection to nature is relational and reciprocal. “Connecting with nature is a powerful way to learn about ourselves. Our lives are reflected in the natural world and I’m passionate about fostering sustainable ecosystems, in our relationships with each other and with our planet.” Seamlessly weaving discussions about the seasons and song, Nick told countless stories of bringing people together to create the magic of music. “The options and opportunities for collaboration are endless.”

BUZZ

his current role as Director of Choral Music at the Confederation Centre of the Arts where he leads both youth and adult choirs. “I am keen to bring choral music to the public.” One of the ways that he has done that is having the youth choir as part of last year’s tree lighting event in Charlottetown. “We walked from Founders Hall to the tree lighting location, leading the crowd in singing familiar holiday songs along the way.”

When Nick and his family moved here in 2017, he was a student at the Culinary Institute of Canada, and he went on to work in restaurants for a few years. “I am still passionate about cooking and baking, and my wife and I are both foodies.” Though he isn’t working in restaurants now, he engages with the culinary arts in his home life to connect and find balance. “I love all aspects of food and cooking because it really engages all of the senses.”

Even in music and as a conductor, Nick approaches his practice in a holistic way, engaging all the senses by embodying the movement of

Any time I have spoken with choral music enthusiasts, there is a common thread of how important it is to share our individual voices within the collective. “Choir can be seen as a microcosm for how we build community.” There is beauty and power in the ways that a group of people can show up and support each other. “For example, memorizing can be difficult, and it becomes so much easier when we are in a group because the collective is holding us up.”

As a life-long learner, Nick excitedly shared some of the silver linings that came to be during the pandemic. During those days when we couldn’t gather, people were creating online content in ways that we didn’t see before. “So, even now, there is so much information to be found online that may not be there had it not been for the shutdowns in the early days of pandemic.”

Nick’s dedication and commitment to music education and artistry was shining through in each story he told and every example he shared. “Part of my job is to support people in understanding their voice, literally and metaphorically.” He reminded me that singing is inherent, whether we are “good” at it or not. There is healing power in music, sound, and sharing our unique expressions. “Our voice is a powerful instrument, and we always carry it with us.”

Hidden Blackness

New exhibition opens at Confederation Centre Art Gallery

Opening May 24, Hidden Blackness: Edward Mitchell Bannister is one of many exhibitions on view this summer at Confederation Centre Art Gallery. 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.

Born in Saint Andrews, NB, Bannister’s family lived in a segregated Black village colloquially referred to as Slabtown. Much of his early life was overshadowed by the limited job opportunities and racism that Black New Brunswickers faced. Before becoming a full-time painter, Bannister worked as a farmhand, cobbler, shipmate, and barber, and was also a prominent abolitionist and philanthropist. He co-founded the Providence Art Club, one of the oldest art societies in the United States. In 1876, Bannister won first place at the Centennial Exposition Art Exhibition in Philadelphia, making him the first artist of African descent and the first Canadian to win a major art prize in North America.

This is the first major exhibition of Edward Mitchell Bannister’s work ever

presented in Canada. Curator David Woods was shocked at how little was known about Bannister in Maritime and Canadian art circles, despite the artist’s success and reputation in the United States. This motivated him to organize an exhibition that would hopefully end widespread ignorance of Bannister’s work and elevate him to his rightful place in Canadian art history.

Hidden Blackness represents the artist’s Maritime homecoming. Featuring loans from the permanent collections of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Beaverbrook Art Gallery, and more, it gives a glimpse of the creativity and excellence of Bannister’s artistry, while also providing an important opportunity to examine the life of 19th-century Black New Brunswickers. The exhibition is organized and circulated by Owens Art Gallery in partnership with the Black Artists Network of Nova Scotia.

The Summer Gallery Opening will take place on June 7 at 7 pm. The opening is free to attend, and no registration is required.

confederationcentre.com

Quiltivisim

Presentation by Bill Stearman at PEERS Alliance

Quilt by Bill Stearman

Adult members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community are invited to drop-in at the PEERS Alliance in Charlottetown (250b Queen St) on May 21 from 6–8 pm for a presentation on “Quiltivism” with Bill Stearman.

Currently touring Canada, Bill is a Queer Elder from Ontario who will discuss his expression of activism— and past, present, and future Queer struggles— through the art of quilting. Snacks will be provided and there is no fee to attend.

billstearman.ca/calendar

(left): Edward Mitchell Bannister by Gustine L. Hurd, c. 1880, Albumen silver print, 14.5 × 10.3 cm, National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution; Edward Mitchell Bannister, People Near Boat, 1893, oil on canvas, 35.6 x 50.4 cm, Smithsonian American Art Museum

Elawika’tikne’l

Epekwitk Quill Sisters exhibition at Hilda Woolnough Gallery

Presented by This Town is Small, the exhibition Elawika’tikne’l by the Epekwitk Quill Sisters will be on view at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery at The Guild in Charlottetown from May 1 to June 28.

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

Realistic Art

Student art exhibition at The Guild

Katarina’s Art Studio presents its annual student exhibition, Realistic Art–A Student Exhibition, at The Guild in Charlottetown from May 21–24. This four-day gallery event celebrates the talent, discipline, and artistic growth of emerging artists from across PEI. The exhibition features a thoughtful collection of realistic drawings and paintings by students of all ages. Each piece reflects the careful practice, growing skill, and creative exploration encouraged in Katarina’s art classes. Whether visitors are art enthusiasts

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.

An opening reception for Elawika’tikne’l will be held on May 1 from 5–7 pm at the Hilda Woolnough Gallery, 111 Queen Street, Charlottetown. All are welcome.

L’esprit

de la musique

Paintings inspire Festival Route 11’s art installations

The Festival Route 11 team will unveil L’esprit de la musique, a new painting by Karen Gallant, at Evermoore Brewing in Summerside on May 19. This is the fifth work by Gallant to serve as inspiration for the festival’s art installations, led by Patrick Brunet and Kelly Caseley. Festival Route 11 celebrates its fifth anniversary this year.

Karen Gallant of Rustico, PE, is a celebrated visual artist, known for her otherworldly paintings. She draws her inspiration from the elements and rhythm of the sea, and from the land, people, and stories of the Island. While she does not place her scenes in any particular location, it has been said that her work evokes a particularly Acadian feeling.

or simply curious, the exhibition offers a welcoming glimpse into the work of PEI’s emerging artists. Admission is free, and the gallery is open daily from 12 noon–5 pm.

From the very beginning of Festival Route 11 in 2021, a collaborative partnership was struck between Gallant and the festival’s creative team. Patrick Brunet and Kelly Caseley, the brains behind the festival’s large-scale art installations, used elements from one of Gallant’s paintings to inspire the magical decor across the festival grounds. The inaugural festival was punctuated by kites and colourful houses, and an enormous whale in the big tent— all familiar figures in Gallant’s work.

Four years later, the partnership holds strong. “Karen Gallant’s artwork has this whimsical maritime quality about it,” says Brunet. “It is a great body of work to center the art around for Festival Route 11, whose core values share these commonalities with Karen’s work.”

L’esprit de la musique, the new work of acrylic on cradle-back wood panel, celebrates the strength and force of East Coast music in PEI and abroad. The public is invited to Evermoore on

May 19 to view the painting, celebrate at the Celtic Jam Session starting at 2 pm, and try the Route 11 Pale Ale. More festival paintings will be displayed elsewhere along PEI’s Route 11 in the coming months. In the meantime, they can be viewed online at festivalroute11.com. Festival Route 11 runs from August 1–3 at Union Corner Provincial Park. Tickets are on sale now.

Through Our Lens

Red Sands Photography Club show at Summerside Library

The Red Sands Photography Club presents their exhibition Through Our Lens this month at the Summerside Rotary Library. All are welcome to attend the grand opening on May 4 from 1–4 pm to view the collection of photography by members of the club.

L’esprit de la musique by Karen Gallant 2025

(L–R): Quill art by Cheryl Simon, Kay Bernard, and Melissa Peter-Paul

Arm study after Charles Bargue Drawing course, charcoal on paper, 2025 by Ava Reynolds (left); A Mountainous Landscape, acrylic on canvas, 2024 by Mary Ann Ross

The Artist’s Garden

The Studio Gallery in Victoria will present a special art show to open its 35th season. The Artist’s Garden–A Retrospective of the Work of Sylvia Ridgway will be on display from May 25 to June 8. An opening will be held on May 25 from 2–5 pm.

Starting her artistic career in Kingston, Ontario, where she took a course in batik at the Frontenac School, 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.

ArtsSmarts

Student art projects in Charlottetown and Summerside

The creative achievements of students and educators across PEI will take centre stage as ArtsSmarts presents artwork at two prominent Island venues this spring.

Throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, the GénieArtsSmarts program 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.

Since her return to her home on PEI in 1980, Sylvia has produced a vast portfolio of work interpreting the beauty of the Island—the seashore, skies, fields, gardens, wildlife, and home life—creating fond memories for visitors and friends alike.

Sylvia’s work is held in private and public collections around the world. She has participated in provincial, regional, and national group shows, as well as solo exhibitions at the Studio Gallery in Victoria and the Dunes Studio Gallery in Brackley Beach. For many years, she participated in the annual PEI Crafts Council Christmas Fairs and was a founding member of the South Shore Arts Council.

This retrospective celebrates Sylvia’s diverse and prolific output as a batik artist. It will be open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, May 26 to June 8, at the Studio Gallery in Victoria.

“Her [Sylvia’s] work is a reflection of her personality: genuine, gentle, natural,” says Peter Jansons of The Dunes.

The resulting artworks are currently on view at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown until May 25, and will be showcased at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside from May 28–June 6. These exhibitions celebrate the transformative impact of integrating arts into education, highlighting the talents and perspectives of Island youth.

ArtsSmarts is the largest education initiative of its kind in Canada, and is jointly supported by the Department of Education and Early Years, Department of Economic Development, Innovation and Trade and the Department of Fisheries, Tourism and Sports and Culture. This collaboration underscores the commitment to enriching children’s lives and fostering a culture of creativity and innovation within the educational framework.

PEI: Then & Now

In his latest exhibition, PEI: Then & Now, Summerside artist Chris Mollins takes viewers on a journey through the Island’s past and present, capturing its natural beauty, culture, and Maritime spirit through bold colour, impressionistic brushstrokes, and flowing movement. The show is part of Culture Summerside’s Sixty Days of Fame exhibition series at the MacNaught History Centre and Archives (75 Spring St) and will be on view until the end of May.

Mollins’ work captures not just the scenery, but the feeling of the Islandthe rhythm of the tides, the warmth of the land, and the pull of a familiar red dirt road.

Batik artwork by Sylvia Ridgway

Sylvia Ridgway retrospective at the Studio Gallery

Sunlight Flare on New Harmony Road by Chris Mollins

Chris Mollins exhibition at MacNaught

Wild Rose Sanctuary

Mother’s Day Art and Flower Sale—May 10

Wild Rose Sanctuary will host a Mother’s Day Art and Flower Sale on May 10 from 11 am–3 pm at Central Christian Church in Charlottetown (223 Kent St).

This fundraiser supports Wild Rose Sanctuary, a non-profit, registered charity in Forest Hill, PE, owned and operated by Dianne Foerg. The sanctuary is home to more than 70 large animals—including horses, mules, donkeys, and ponies—along with five sheep, three cows, a goat, and a pot belly pig. All have been rescued from slaughter, neglect, or abuse.

The sanctuary’s mission is to raise awareness about rescue horses and provide them with lifelong care in a safe, loving environment. Dianne and her team of volunteers are dedicated to giving every animal a life filled with compassion, respect, and quality care.

The event will feature original artwork and prints by PEI artists, including Marion Copleston, Helene LaRouche, Doreen Foster, Noella Shorgan, Ann Marie Clow, Virginia

Shewchuk, Judy Marshak, Flora Martin, Bud McEwen, Marie Sheehan, Iris Soloman, Renée Laprise, Tammie Matthews, and others. Some artists will be painting live during the sale.

Spring flowers will be available for purchase, and there will be a silent auction, 50/50 draw, door prizes, and light snacks and refreshments.

To learn more about the sanctuary—or to donate, sponsor, or volunteer—visit wildrosesanctuary.ca or follow on Facebook @ wildrosesanctuarypei.

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

Birchtree Gallery

Coastlines, a new exhibition of oil paintings by Geraldine Ysselstein, opens May 18 with a reception from 1–6 pm. Open Monday to Saturday (10 am–6 pm) and Sunday (1–5 pm). 8 Main St, Victoria. birchtreegallery.ca

Breadalbane Gallery

A new show opens May 9 with a reception from 6–8 pm. Attendees can meet the exhibiting artists and watch Ways of Seeing, a video by John Berger. Gallery artists include: Patricia Lush, Sabine Nuesch, Leo (Liu, Xin), Joan Sutton, Vian Emery, Zoe Novaczek, Denise Livingstone, Will Baker, Haley Lewis, Marianne Janowicz, Silver Frith, Laura Bain, Zora Wendt, Gail Rhyno, Lily-Anne Hein, and Erin Veitch. Open Tuesday (11 am–3 pm), Wednesday (9 am–1 pm), and Thursday (4–8 pm). 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.

Confederation Centre Art Gallery

The Summer Gallery Opening will be held on June 7 at 7 pm. It is free to attend, and no registration is required. On view: Ben Kinder: Still Lifes and Views closes May 4; Kim Morgan: Blood and Breath, Skin and Dust closes May 11; Hidden Blackness: Edward Mitchell Bannister opens May 24; Wild Journey, Holland College School of Visual Arts’ 2025 Student Showcase, closes May 25; 200 Years of Service to Islanders: Benevolent, Irish, and Social opens June 1; and Kathleen Daly and George Pepper: The Land and its People closes September 28. Open daily. Admission is by donation. 130 Queen St, Charlottetown. confederationcentre.com

Cornwall Library Art Gallery

The spring group show Inspired by Travel closes May 9. All are welcome to the opening celebration of Zoe Nichols’ exhibit, Cutest Place On Earth, a collection of paintings of Island farm life on a hill, on May 14 at 7 pm. The exhibit runs until June 20. Contact the library at 902-6298415 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

Details Fine Art Gallery

Spring Awakening: All New PEI Landscapes by René Tardif is on view until the end of May. 166 Richmond St, Charlottetown. detailsfineart.com

Ellen’s Creek Gallery

The Time of Our Lives, featuring artwork by PEI Seniors College students and instructors, is on view from May 5–16. All are welcome to the opening reception on May 9 at 7 pm. Open Monday–Friday (9 am–5 pm). 525 North River Rd, Charlottetown.

Eptek Art & Culture Centre

Quilting into Spring by members of the Northern Lights Quilt Guild runs until May 23. Threads by members of the Summerside Art Club, runs from May 5–June 13 in the lobby. The annual ArtsSmarts exhibition, showcasing student art projects from schools across PEI, runs from May 28–June 6. All are welcome to the opening reception on June 4 from 6–8 pm. Visit the permanent exhibition on the history and architecture of Summerside. Admission is by donation. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. peimuseum.ca

Hilda Woolnough

Gallery

at The Guild

Presented by This Town is Small, the exhibition Elawika’tikne’l by the Epekwitk Quill Sisters—Melissa Peter-Paul, Kay Bernard, and Cheryl Simon—runs from May 1–June 28. All are welcome to the opening reception on May 1 from 5–7 pm. Katarina’s Art Studio presents its annual student exhibition, Realistic Art –A Student Exhibition, from May 21–24 at The Guild. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown. theguildpei.com

MacNaught History Centre and Archives

PEI: Then & Now by Chris Mollins is on view until the end of May. Open for viewing Tuesday–Saturday, (10 am–4 pm). Admission is free. 75 Spring St, Summerside.

Studio Gallery

The Artist’s Garden–A Retrospective of the Work of Sylvia Ridgway will be on view from May 25–June 8, with an opening on May 25 from 2–5 pm. Open daily from May 26–June 8 (10 am to 5 pm). 4 Howard St, Victoria.

Summerside Rotary Library

Through Our Lens, by members of the Red Sands Photography Club, is on view in May. All are welcome to the grand opening on May 4 from 1–4 pm. The library walls also showcase over 100 pieces of art by local artists across three wheelchair-accessible levels, with an elevator for easy access. The variety of works include 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.

Lupins (detail) by Ann Clow

Thank you, nurses

May 12 is International Nurses Day, a time to recognize the amazing work nurses do every single day. Having recently spent a fair amount of time assisting a family member through some health challenges, I want to acknowledge the incredible nurses (and doctors) who work unbelievably hard in our healthcare system. Whether they’re working long shifts, moving from patient to patient, or managing emergencies, nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare. But while they’re caring for others, it’s easy for them to forget to take care of themselves, especially when it comes to eating well.

makes it much easier to avoid grabbing chips or candy when hunger hits.

A LEGENDARY CULINARY ESCAPE

Eating healthy can feel like a luxury when your schedule is packed and your breaks are short. But with a little planning and a few smart habits, eating well can fit into even the busiest workday. If you work in healthcare, here are a few simple ways you can eat well, stay energized, and feel your best throughout the day.

Start your day strong by not skipping breakfast. Skipping it might seem like a time saver, but it usually backfires. A balanced breakfast gives you the energy you need to stay sharp and focused. Try something quick and satisfying like overnight oats, Greek yogurt with fruit, or a smoothie made with frozen berries, spinach, and protein powder. These can be made the night before and grabbed on your way out the door.

What you bring from home can make a big difference. Hospital cafeterias and vending machines don’t always offer the healthiest options. Packing your own meals gives you control over what you eat and saves money, too. Aim for a mix of protein, fibre, and healthy fats to keep you full longer. Think grilled chicken with quinoa and roasted vegetables or a wrap with hummus, turkey, and fresh greens.

Meal prep doesn’t have to take hours. Choose one day a week, like Sunday or your day off, to prep a few key ingredients. Cook a big batch of brown rice or pasta. Roast a tray of vegetables. Bake or grill some chicken, tofu, or fish. Store everything in containers so you can mix and match meals in minutes.

Pre-chopped veggies, hard-boiled eggs, string cheese, and hummus are all quick snacks that can be prepped ahead of time. Having healthy options ready

It’s easy to forget to drink water during a busy shift, but dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and brain fog. Keep a refillable water bottle with

Discover a haven of luxury, flavour, and natural beauty at Prince Edward Island’s iconic five-star country inn. Nestled along seaside landscapes, The Inn at Bay Fortune is more than a place to stay, it’s a destination where culinary dreams come to life. Under the visionary leadership of Chef Michael and Chastity Smith, the inn offers one of the world’s most immersive and interactive dining experiences.

Cookies & crafts

2025 EXPERIENCES 2025 EXPERIENCES

The FireWorks Feast Opening Day

The FireWorks Feast Opening Day May 16 May 16

Wood, Fire & Smoke Cookbook Launch

Wood, Fire & Smoke Cookbook Launch May 16 – 18 May 16 – 18

Fortune Wharf Lobster Season

Fortune Wharf Season May 21 – June 30 May 21 – June 30

The Village Feast The Village Feast July 6 July 6

The FireWorks Feast Closing Night The FireWorks Feast Closing Night October 11 October 11

Chefs’ Harvest Culinary Retreat Harvest Culinary Retreat

October 16 – November 8 October 16 – November 8 (Thursday to Saturday) (Thursday to Saturday)

A Festive Feast A Festive Feast December 5 December 5

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.

Seniors art activities

Seniors are invited to visit the Confederation Centre Art Gallery on May 1 from 10 am–12 noon for an introduction to current exhibitions followed by an art-making activity in the Schurman Family Studio. Tea, coffee, and snacks are provided. Info/register: 902566-1267; confederationcentre.com

Knitting workshops at Eptek

Knitting designer Lucy Neatby will instruct a series of artist-led workshops in May at Eptek & Art Culture Centre in Summerside. Island knitters of all levels can learn practical skills and strategies. The workshops on May 1 are Hallelujah Grafting (9 am) and Phoenix From The Ashes (1 pm). On May 2, the workshops are Wondrous Pockets for Single Layer Knitting (9 am) and Dabble Into Double (1 pm). Registration is required. Info: 902-888-8373

Visual Arts PD Day Camp

Budding young artists can explore the visual arts at a PD day camp at Confederation Centre of the Arts on May 2. Students will be taken through a combination of guided and open-ended activities in painting, sculpture, drawings, and more. Info/register: 902-566-1267; confederationcentre.com

Art Journaling Club

The Art Journaling Club meets monthly at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) to create an untraditional journal. Record special moments using art and pictures rather than words. The next session is May 5 at 6:30 pm.

Island Treasures Needleart Guild

The Island Treasures Needleart Guild meets every Monday until June from 7–9 pm at the St. Eleanors Fire Hall (1 West Dr). New members are welcome. Practice embroidery and needlework in its all forms or exchange ideas in stitchery and related crafts. No experience is necessary and mentorship is available. Info: barryandshell@pei.sympatico.ca; 902-436-8795

Paint Club for adults

Adult artists can bring their projects and supplies to the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 5 and 12 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 Kids Club

Kids aged 6–12 can join a creative afterschool club at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St). The club meets weekly on Wednesdays at 3:30 pm. Each week offers a selection of crafts, activities, robots, science experiments or games. This month’s activities include outer space (May 7), comic club (May 14), puffy paint (May 21), and seed balls and launchers (May 28).

Creative PEI ArtMobile

Drop into the Charlottetown Library at 97 Queen St for some creative art time with the Creative PEI ArtMobile (formerly known as the Art Hive Pop-up) on May 7 and 21 from 5–7 pm. Bring a workin-progress, or start something new with the materials provided. These events are free and open to all ages. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Sewing Club

Join fellow sewing and mending enthusiasts (ages 12+) in the Charlottetown

Library Makerspace (97 Queen St) on May 8 from 5–8 pm. Bring a machine and projects, start an entry-level project, or try a machine with some guidance.

Intro to 3D Printing

In partnership with Lucy’s Nest and Protosource, an introduction to 3D printing will be offered at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 12 from 6–7 pm for ages 6–12, and on May 26 from 6–8 pm for ages 16 and up. Participants will learn about printer tuning, repair and maintenance, as well as the basics of 3D printing.

Crafternoon

Crafternoon in the Makerspace at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) takes place on May 14 at 1 pm. This month, participants can create a work of art by making paper Hyacinth flowers. All materials are supplied. Call 902-3684642 to pre-register.

Green’s Shore Quilters Guild

The Green’s Shore Quilters Guild meets at St. Eleanor’s Community Centre (1 West Dr) on the third Thursday of every month from 10–11:30 am. The guild offers an opportunity to meet fellow quilters, learn from their expertise, or focus on finishing current projects. The group also hosts sewing days every other Thursday from 10 am–3 pm. Everyone is welcome. Follow @Greens Shore Quilters Guild on Facebook for updates.

Stratford Poppy Project

Drop into the Makerspace at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) to knit or crochet poppies on May 17 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.

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 May 17 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 by Halftone & Haven.

Makers session

Drop-in for the makers session at Eptek & Art Culture Centre from 1–3 pm on May 18. Gather an unfinished project and join the free session. All are welcome. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Assumption Parish fundraiser

The Our Lady of the Assumption Parish Fundraising Committee is hosting an East Coast Art Party at the parish centre (145 Stratford Rd, Stratford) on May 20 at 6:30 pm. Participants will paint their own Country Road masterpiece, featuring a scenic red dirt road, the ocean, and lupin-filled fields. The evening includes door prizes, refreshments, art supplies, and guided painting instruction. No experience is necessary. For tickets, email audrey.fraser40@gmail.com or macleanmary@yahoo.ca.

Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild

The Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild meets on the third Wednesday of the month, except in July, August, and December. The next meeting is May 21 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.

Paper flowers

Learn how to create a wreath or garland from paper napkin flowers at a crafting and social hour on May 21 at 2 pm and May 26 at 6:30 pm at the Summerside Library (57 Central St). Call 902-436-7323 to register.

PEI Modern Quilt Guild

The PEI Modern Quilt Guild meets on the fourth Thursday of every month (May 22) from 7–9 pm. This is a scentfree meeting. If interested in attending a meeting as a guest or for inquiries, contact peimqg@gmail.com.

Creative time for teens

Mandala Meditation offers teens some easy-going creative time while colouring mandalas during operating hours

at the Summerside Library (57 Central St). Teens can also drop by the library on May 25 at 2 pm to make an oobleck stress ball using simple ingredients.

Using the Makerspace

People aged 16+ are invited to the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 27 at 1 pm or May 28 at 6 pm for a brief orientation on how to register to use the Makerspace for creative projects outside regular hours.

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 Star Wars fun, crowns and magic wands, sticker mosaics, Pokémon fun, and more.

Life drawing for adults

Drop-in life drawing sessions with a nude model are held weekly on Sundays from 2–4 pm at the Gertrude Cotton Art Centre. All skill levels are welcome. Doors open 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. Life Drawing PEI is a not-for-profit organization. There is a fee for sessions, with proceeds going toward an honorarium for the model. Email lifedrawingpei2022@gmail.com if interested in being a model. Follow @ LifeDrawingPEI on FB for updates. 57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford.

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.

All ages art workshops

Blank Canvas Art Supplies is offering a range of arts and craft workshops and classes for all ages. Located on the first floor of the Confederation Court Mall, 134 Kent St, Charlottetown. Info: blankcanvasartsupplies.ca

Disability Arts Initiative

Survey launch at Art Night at The Guild—May 2

Creative PEI will launch the Disability Arts Initiative Survey at Art Night at The Guild on May 2. The event will feature a public panel discussion and film screenings by Atlantic artists with disabilities. Recognizing that accessibility is essential for centring the needs of the disabled community, Creative PEI believes these conversations benefit everyone and hold the potential for meaningful dialogue.

The Disability Arts Initiative Survey was thoughtfully developed by Creative PEI’s accessibility team, including Rachel Matheson and Alexis Bulman. Drawing from their valuable lived experiences as disabled artists, Rachel and Alexis aim to identify, address, and discuss the barriers that can hinder an artist’s ability to thrive in their creative practices. The survey also serves as a resource for other arts organizations seeking to enhance their understanding of accessibility and inclusion.

Art Night at The Guild will be held in the black-box theatre on May 2 from 5–7 pm. Admission is free, and light snacks will be provided.

Membership with TTIS

SUMMER SUMMER

on June 30th

local winner earns a spot in the grand finale this September in Shediac, New Brunswick—along with a $500 cash prize and two nights’ accommodation. There is no registration fee, and materials are

This Town Is Small is beginning its 2025–26 membership year and invites current members to renew their membership and new artists to join. Info: info@ thistownissmall.com; thistownissmall. com/membership

PEI Arts Grants funding

PEI Arts Grants support, assist and encourage the arts community in the province. Funding is available to pro fessional PEI-based artists through a peer-assessed grant application process. The application deadline for the Spring 2025 intake period is May 12 at 4 pm. For information, eligibility requirements and to apply, visit princeedwardisland.ca/ en/service/pei-arts-grants-funding.

shediachomart.com/en for details and to register. Tickets available at locarius.io/

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 to introduce your artistic and/or curatorial work, share ideas you’d like to explore, and showcase your unique perspective. TTIS will collaborate directly

Art Love Tour registration

(902) 916-0891 3421 BRACKLEY POINT RD

PEI artists are invited to register for Art Love, a live painting competition at The Guild 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 and a panel of three judges, who determine the grand winner. For the first time, Charlottetown is one of several stops on the Art Love Tour. Each

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. Visit thistownissmall. com/artist-profiles-2025-26 to apply. Info: info@thistownissmall.com

Eptek exhibitions

Three shows on view in May

Three exhibitions at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside this month invite visitors to explore the creativity of Island artists, quilters, and students.

The exhibition Quilting into Spring, by members of the Northern Lights Quilt Guild, continues until May 23. This guild, which has been in operation for over 20 years, presents a wide range of items—from miniature pieces to king-size quilts, and everything in between.

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.” Visitors will be treated to a variety of mediums, interpretations, and joyful takes on the theme. Works in oil, acrylic, fibre art, mixed media, and more will be on display. The exhibition runs from May 5 to June 13 in the Eptek lobby.

reception will be held on June 4 from 6–8 pm. This is a free event, and all are welcome.

The annual ArtsSmarts exhibition will be on display from May 28 to June 6, showcasing student art projects from schools across the Island. An opening

Eptek Art & Culture Centre 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.

EXPLORE

EDWARD MITCHELL BANNISTER HIDDEN BLACKNESS

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.

24 - SEPTEMBER 14 KIM MORGAN BLOOD AND BREATH, SKIN AND DUST LAST CHANCE - CLOSES MAY 11

KATHLEEN DALY AND GEORGE PEPPER THE LAND AND ITS PEOPLE

UNTIL SEPTEMBER 28

200 YEARS OF SERVICE TO ISLANDERS BENEVOLENT, IRISH, AND SOCIAL

JUNE

Curated by Pan Wendt

Curated by David Woods

Curated by Susan Gibson Garvey and organized and circulated by Dalhousie Art Gallery

Edward Mitchell Bannister, Approaching Storm, 1886, oil on canvas,

Art Museum, Gift of G. William Miller (1983.95.62)

SUBMITTED

Freshly Knit by Michele Hartlen

Charlottetown Film Festival

Expanding in 2025 to include more local opportunities

The Charlottetown Film Festival (ChFF) is returning with its most ambitious edition yet. Running from October 15–19, 2025, the festival is expanding beyond film to include television, stand-up comedy, dedicated Frenchlanguage programming, and more opportunities for local screenwriters.

With growing interest from creatives and audiences, the festival is doubling its venues. In addition to its long-time home base, City Cinema, the festival is introducing Tivoli Cinema as a second screening location.

The Charlottetown Film Festival continues to operate in two key parts: the Festival and the Forum.

The Festival showcases an eclectic mix of feature films, shorts, documentaries, web series, television episodes, stand-up comedy sets, and more.

FOOD & DRINK

Lobster sale

The Stratford and Area Lions Club (110 Mason Rd) will be selling freshly cooked market lobsters starting May 1 through Father’s Day weekend. Sales run every Thursday from 1–5 pm, Friday from 9 am–5 pm, and Saturday from 9 am until sold out. Lobsters are delivered by local fishermen and cooked on-site at the club. Profits support the QEH, IWK, and a school bursary.

Chef Nation

Youth aged 13–18 can join Chef Nation on Tuesdays from 3–6 pm to learn practical cooking skills and food literacy. Presented by Boys & Girls Club, this program teaches participants how to make simple meals and snacks in the Community Kitchen at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St).

Fudge sale

The women of St. Peter’s Cathedral will be selling fudge in the Confederation Court Mall on May 8 from 9 am–5 pm. The sale will feature fudge of all kinds, from old-fashioned to gourmet selections. 134 Kent St, Charlottetown.

St Pius X Catholic Women’s coffee party

The St Pius X Catholic Women’s League will host a coffee party in the MacKenzie Room at St Pius X on May 10 from 9:30–11:30 am. There will be a 50/50 draw, door prizes, and gluten free goods

The Forum is an industry conference offering workshops, panels, mixers, and galas with some of Canada’s top film industry members.

ChFF is also 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. Festival submissions are also open at charlottetownfilmfest.com.

available. Proceeds go to local charities. Tickets are available at 106 St Peters Rd, Charlottetown.

Veterans’ Commemorative

Mixed Mess Dinner

The PEI Military Family Resource Centre (PEI MFRC), in partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada through its Commemorative Partnership Program, is hosting a Veteran Commemorative Mixed Dining-In Mess Dinner on May 31 from 4–9 pm at the Veteran Convention Centre in Summerside. This event is to commemorate D-Day and the role Islanders played in what was the largest seaborne invasion in history. Tickets can be purchased via peimfrc.ca or by phoning the PEI MFRC at 902-892-8999.

Roast beef takeout dinner

Central Queens United will hold its annual take-out roast beef supper on June 7. Each 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 902621-0669. The church is located at 19848 PE-2, Hunter River.

17th Annual Village Feast

The 17th Annual Village Feast will run from 3–6 pm on July 6 outside the Souris Regional School. Prepared by Chef Michael Smith and friends, menu highlights include chargrilled NY striploin, seawater lobster, shellfish chowder, freshbaked bread, strawberry rhubarb shortcake, and more. Proceeds support local food programs and school cookhouses in Kenya. Visit villagefeast.ca to buy tickets, sponsor, or volunteer.

Here Fishy, Fishy

New PEI lifestyle show now streaming

Here Fishy, Fishy debuted recently on Bell Fibe TV1, featuring four PEI chefs creating dishes from local fish supplied by fishing enthusiast Katie Mac.

Chefs Rachel Sauvé and Rebecca Reardon of Cork & Cast in Charlottetown, along with Government House Executive Chef Chanelle Doucette and Chef Adrianna Remlinger, Food Stylist and Butcher at the Inn at Bay Fortune, join forces with Katie Mac to bring home the catch and transform the fish into mouthwatering dishes.

A lot of people in PEI grew up with a fishing pole in their hands, but Mac says she is very late to the game. “Maybe five years ago, I read a book about a fly-fishing private detective, and I was hooked,” she says. “My friends and family would tell you I haven’t talked about anything else since…PEI has some of the best brook trout fishing in the whole world.”

Katie’s fish tales caught the interest of Louise Lalonde, the PEI filmmaker and producer behind Louise Lalonde Productions. “I was intrigued by

SCREEN

Tivoli Cinema

Tivoli Cinema screens a variety of new and old releases. Upcoming screenings include: Star Wars - Episode IV: A New Hope (1977) on May 2; Star Wars - Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980) on May 3; Eephus (2025) on May 3–7; A Man Escaped (1956) on May 4; Star Wars - Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983) on May 4; Darkest Miriam (2025) on May 8 & 10–14; Double Feature: Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991) & Aliens (1986) on May 9; Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) on May 15; Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964) on May 10; Bob Trevino Likes It (2025) on May 16–18; Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989) on May 17–18; Castration Movie Anthology i (2024) on May 19; The Encampments (2025) on May 19–22; The Rubber Gun (1977) on May 23–24 & 27; They Call Her Death (2025) on May 24–26; The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966) on May 25; Alex Apostolidis Presents: iWant2BeOnTV on May 28; Freaky Tales (2025) on May 29–June 1; A Knight’s War (2025) on May 30–31. For showtimes, updates and tickets visit tivolicinema. com. 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

A Hidden History

The Summerside Historical Society will present a special screening of the BellFibre TV mini-series, A Hidden History.

Katie’s dedication to the sport and soon discovered that she’s not alone. Women are embracing fishing in droves, not only for the end product, but for the peace they experience in nature combined with the thrill of the catch,” shares Lalonde. “One thing led to another, and I had identified a group of female chefs who wanted to learn about fishing and share their expertise on cooking fish.”

Here Fishy, Fishy is unique, not only because it combines female fishers and female chefs, but because Katie is still learning the sport. She admits, “You’re going to see me stumble and make some rookie mistakes.”

Visit tv1.bell.ca/fibetv1/shows/ here-fishy-fishy to watch.

The free event will be held on May 4 at 1 pm at Summerside’s Eptek Art & Culture Centre. In the series, author Katie Hickox travels to the Island to investigate a centuries-old mystery that has captivated her for decades. Katie and her team will be at Eptek event to answer any questions. Call 902-888-8373 to reserve a seat as space is limited. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Afternoon movie

Visit the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) for an afternoon movie on May 6 at 1 pm. This month’s screening is The Royal Tenenbaums (R) (2001).

Roving Picture Shows

Roving Picture Shows is a monthly series featuring silent film screenings with live music by Island Jazz. This month, F. W. Murnau’s The Last Laugh will screen at the Crapaud Community Hall on May 25 at 2:30 pm. For Mother’s Day, Mrs. Miniver—a film about a mother trying to hold her family together during the early months of WWII in England—will be shown at City Cinema in Charlottetown on May 11 at 3:30 pm.

Anime Club (18+)

Watch and discuss two episodes of anime at the Charlottetown Library(97 Queen St) on May 13 at 6 pm. Titles change monthly and are chosen at the start of every meeting.

Katie Mac and Collin Rayner

Talking from Experiences by Ashleigh Tremere

Escape rooms

Taking in Charlottetown’s two independent cinemas

I haven’t been out to see a film in a theatre since December. My daughter and I went to ‘the big theatre’ for her birthday. I think when you are very young, that chaotic ground of huge popcorn lines and overpriced fountain pop feels like a rite of passage. An experience you crave as much as hot butter and chocolate itself. The human brain loves indulging in stories—it’s why we fall so easily into the appealing escape of books and films. Personally, I desire something a little more intimate in my viewing experiences these days, and thankfully Charlottetown has got options for that.

It just so happened that I was presented with a whole weekend of films to my tastes and in my preferred setting. City Cinema, that long-standing gem of independent cinema was showing The Lord of the Rings. I have been trying to get one of my kids into starting the book series and figured that spending an afternoon seeing The Fellowship might help push her to dive in. Plus rewatching an old favourite with 70 other fans on the big screen didn’t sound like a bad evening to me. It was like getting to be with two old friends at once.

The vibe is always so much more chill, there aren’t tons of random dings and whirs or flashing lights assaulting my senses. The prices are right, the popcorn is fresh, and if you’re so inclined you can grab yourself a local adult beverage too. Parking may be a limiting factor but that is kind of an issue in the whole of downtown. Independent films are what make up the majority of their scheduling but the occasional mainstream hit does also make its way to the listings. If you’ve never been, you should really go check it out. If it’s been a while, it’s just like you remember in the very best way.

Charlottetown’s newest theatre, Tivoli Cinema, is one I have also been keen to get over and engage in some repertory viewing at. It opened its doors this past winter offering classics and curios, matinees and midnights, along with new and re-releases. I decided it was time to make the scheduling work for me when I saw a screening for Solastalgia by one of my favourite local filmmakers, Millefoire Clarkes of One Thousand Flower Productions.

The venue is located on Kent Street, so again parking is going to come into play, but being Sunday afternoon we scored a spot right out front. The underground establishment is vibrant and inviting. The staff were friendly and engaging and again the prices were in line with what I’m willing to pay for popcorn. The films are on a rotating roster that you want to keep an eye on because you never know what’s going to show up and pique your interest. The seating is immaculate, huge adjustable seats you can really sink your butt into. I will definitely be a repeat viewer here in the future.

The stairs leading down to Tivoli Cinema below the Arts Hotel

Welcome to City Cinema from The Charlottetown Film Society

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

Advance Tickets

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

Subject to Change

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

Rent City Cinema

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

Admission

Regular $12

Member $9

65 and over $10

14 and under $ 8

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

Annual membership - $25.00

The Shrouds

May 2–8

Drama, Sci Fi, Thriller. 18A, Severe sex and nudity, mild violence. Dir: David Cronenberg, Canada, 2025, 119 min. Vincent Cassel, Diane Kruger, Guy Pearce.

Described by co-star Diane Kruger as Cronenberg’s “most personal film” in his decades-long career, The Shrouds is also possibly the Toronto writer/director’s best film, showcasing his fascination with body horror, advanced technology and high paranoia in a way that also genuinely touches the heart. It’s inspired in part by the 2017 passing of Cronenberg’s beloved wife, Carolyn, to whom he was married for 38 years… Graveyard innovator Karsh [has created a] high-tech metallic garb wrapped around corpses at a switched on Toronto cemetery, “The Shrouds at GraveTech,” which allows mourners to view their loved ones decomposing in real time by either a gravesite screen or a handy smartphone app. Karsh has a personal interest in this. His beloved wife, Becca, died of cancer a few years ago and he’s never gotten over his loss. His initial impulse at her passing was that he’d rather be lowered into the ground with her than say goodbye to her. His shroud invention gives him the next best thing: he can watch her slowly decompose while he awaits his own death, whereupon he’ll be buried right next to her. It also proves to be a profitable business, with global expansions planned…Vincent Cassel’s carefully modulated performance, contrasting Kruger’s more expressive three roles, manifests the grieving process in ways that are simultaneously futuristic, frightening and all too human, a classic Cronenbergian combination.” —Peter Howell, The Toronto Star

Before Sunset

May 9 & 12

Drama, Romance. 14A, mild language.

Dir: Richard Linklater, US, 2004, 80 min. Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy.

Nine years after Jesse and Celine first met, they encounter each other again on the French leg of Jesse’s book tour.

Before Midnight

May 10 & 13

Drama, Romance. 14A, mild language. Dir: Richard Linklater, US, 2013, 109 min. Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy.

We meet Jesse and Celine nine years on in Greece. Almost two decades have passed since their first meeting on that train bound for Vienna.

Craft Along Movie Matinee: Lady Bird

May 10 (2 pm)

Comedy, Drama. PG. Dir: Greta Gerwig, US, 2017, 94 min. Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Timothée Chalamet.

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: A fiercely independent teenager tries to make her own way in the world while wanting to get out of her hometown of Sacramento, California and to get away from her complicated mother and recently-unemployed father.

City Cinema and Roving Picture Shows present: Mrs. Miniver

May 11 (3:30 pm)

Romance, Drama. PG. Dir: William Wyer, US, 1942, 134 mins. Greer Garson, Walter Pidgeon, Teresa Wright.

Winner of six Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director (William Wyler) & Best Actress (Greer Garson), Mrs. Miniver tells the story of a British family struggling to survive the first days of World War II.

‘’Balancing pathos with gentle comedy, humor with stark tragedy, Mrs. Miniver is rich in those human qualities that give a drama life and real humanity.’’ —Philadelphia Inquirer

Mother’s Day: Mildred Pierce

May 11 (7 pm)

Film-Noir, Drama. PG. Dir: Michael Curtiz, US, 1945, 111 min. Joan Crawford, Jack Carson, Zachary Scott.

hard-working

The Penguin Lessons

May 14–18

Drama. PG, mild language. Dir: Peter Cattaneo, UK/Spain, 2024, 112 min. Steve Coogan, Vivian El Jaber, Jonathan Pryce.

“Here’s an unexpected charmer, a true story based on a popular autobiographical memoir about a man and a penguin, with a lightness of tone that doesn’t overdo the whimsy. The excellent Steve Coogan plays Tom Michell, a cynical and disillusioned British writer and scholar who accepted a job in 1976 teaching proper English, poetry and soccer in an upscale boys’ prep school in Buenos Aires at the height of Argentina’s postwar military dictatorship. Intelligently directed by Peter Cattaneo, the man best remembered for The Full Monty, the stressful anecdotes Michell endures make the job of winning over both the unruly, rebellious students and the stern, humorless headmaster a taxing challenge… Things pick up when Michell accidentally rescues a penguin from a near-fatal oil slick, and the little bird repays him by following him halfway across South America. The poor English teacher, who hates birds and has no need for a pet anyway, is stuck with a feathered friend he can’t get rid of. It wins him over like a Disney duck in spite of himself, and I’m willing to bet the same thing happens to you… The Penguin Lessons is a work of surprising depth and subtle, irresistible impact.” —Rex Reed, Observer

Canuck Killers:

Curtains

May 19–20

Horror. 18A, moderate violence and gore. Dir: Richard Ciupka, Canada, 1983, 89 min. John Veronon, Samantha Eggar, Linda Torson.

A

mother inches towards disaster as she divorces her husband and starts a successful restaurant business to support her spoiled daughter.

City Cinema presents Canuck Killers — screenings of classic Canadian horror movies!

Curtains follows six young actresses that are auditioning for a movie role at a remote mansion. Then they’re targeted by a mysterious masked murderer.

The Friend

May 21–27

Drama. 14A. Dir: Scott McGeHee/David Siegel, US, 119 min. Bill Murray, Naomi Watts.

“Iris is being pulled too many ways. One of her writing students is coyly semi-threatening to show her his erotic fiction. A current project is steadfastly refusing to take wing. Her best friend and mentor, a beguiling verbal magician named Walter, has just taken his own life, leaving behind what seems a platoon of ex-wives and lovers. And also leaving behind a dog, which for reasons Iris can’t quite fathom, he has bequeathed to her. Apollo, who’s played by the superb canine performer Bing, seems an unlikely hero at first. The Great Dane has sadder-than-sad eyes complemented by frowning jowls… As Iris seeks to find a suitable place or person on which to offload the dog, she increasingly finds herself not wanting to. She has plenty of human friends, but you know how people in the writing world are. What Apollo offers Iris is unconditional. She seems never to have experienced that before, and she comes to value it. How could she not?

..Both emotionally raw and acutely thoughtful, rife with specificity. It’s career-high stuff.”

—Glenn Kenny, Roger Ebert.com

So Bad It’s Good:

The Wicker Man

May 24 (7 pm) - Admission $15

Horror. 14A. Dir: Neil LaBute, US, 2006, 102 min. Nicholas Cage, Ellen Burstyn, Leelee Sobieski.

City Cinema presents a So Bad it’s Good screening of the infamous and unintentionally hilarious Nicholas Cage remake of The Wicker Man. A sheriff investigating the disappearance of a young girl from a small island discovers there’s a larger mystery to solve among the island’s secretive, neo-pagan community. 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!

Pulp Fiction

May 28–29

Crime. 18A, severe violence, profanity, and drug use. Dir: Quentin Tarantino, US, 1994, 154 min. John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson.

lives of

redemption.

The Goonies

May 31 (2 pm)

city cinema schedule

a

a

Family, Adventure. PG. Dir: Richard Donner, US, 1985, 114 min. Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Corey Feldman.

A group of young misfits called The Goonies discover an ancient map and set out on an adventure to find a legendary pirate’s longlost treasure.

Classic of the month: Days of Heaven

May 30–June 1

Drama. PG. Dir: Terrence Malick, US, 1978, 94 min. Richard Gere, Brooke Adams, Sam Shepard.

A hot-tempered farm laborer convinces the woman he loves to marry their rich but dying boss so that they can have a claim to his fortune.

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!

7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 2:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 2:00 7:00 4:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 2:00 7:00

JUNE APRIL

MAY

private event

The Shrouds

The Shrouds

The Shrouds

The Shrouds

The Shrouds

The Shrouds

The Shrouds

The Shrouds

Before Sunset Ladybird

Before Midnight Mrs. Miniver

Mildred Pierce

Before Sunset Before Midnight

The Penguin Lessons

The Penguin Lessons

The Penguin Lessons

The Penguin Lessons

The Penguin Lessons

The Penguin Lessons

Curtains Curtains

The Friend

The Friend

The Friend

The Friend

The Wicker Man

The Friend

The Friend

The Friend

The Friend

Pulp Fiction

Pulp Fiction Days of Heaven

The Goonies Days of Heaven

Sun 1 7:00 Days of Heaven

The

two mob hitmen,

boxer,

gangster and his wife, and a pair of diner bandits intertwine in four tales of violence and

PEI BOOK LAUNCHES

Leona Dalton book launch

Getting Baked with Bikers on LSD & other short stories of my life on PEI by Leona Dalton will be celebrated at a book launch at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown on May 10 from 10 am–1 pm. The launch will feature comments from the author and a member of her writers’ group, snacks, tea and coffee, and music. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. A second launch will be held at St. Mark’s Parish Hall in Burton, later this summer.

Chef Michael Smith book launch and book signing

Chef Michael Smith will celebrate the release of his new cookbook, Wood, Fire & Smoke, at a book launch event during The Inn at Bay Fortune’s opening weekend, May 16–18. Wood, Fire & Smoke: Recipes and Techniques for Wood-Fired Cooking will be featured throughout the evenings, and every guest room or Feast reservation will receive an autographed copy. To make a reservation, visit innatbayfortune. com/special-events-offerings. Bookmark in Charlottetown is hosting Chef Michael for an in-store book signing on May 31

from 10 am–12 noon. Drop by the store at 172 Queen St, meet Chef Michael Smith, and get a signed copy of his cookbook. For more info, visit bookmarkreads.ca.

Frank Gillan book launch

They Can’t Take the Kids: The Mooney/ McCarthy/Gillan Legacy by PEI author Frank Gillan explores the author’s Irish ancestry and features two matriarchs— the Gillan’s mother and grandmother. Widowed with young children, they each managed to keep their family together in an era when women had few rights. It is a story of courage and resilience, qualities passed down through their Irish lineage. Book launch events will take place at the Haviland Club in Charlottetown on May 22 at 7 pm, and at the Morell Fire Hall on May 25 at 2 pm. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the launch events.

Callum Beck book launch

The Belfast Historical Society will host the local launch of Callum Beck’s new book, The Belfast Riot of 1847, on May 25 at 2:30 pm at St. John’s Presbyterian in Belfast. On March 1, 1847, Prince Edward Island experienced the second-worst election riot in Canadian history. During the Belfast Riot, about 200 Scottish Protestants and 300 Irish Catholics got into a brawl, resulting in at least three men dead and up to 100 others injured. This event set the stage for the hardening of the sectarian conflict between Protestants and Catholics on PEI for the next 125 years. The Belfast Riot of 1847 (Island Studies Press) examines the social and political conditions that led to the riot, introduces us to the major players on both sides, provides a detailed account of its unfolding. Beck was born and raised in Charlottetown, PEI. The free event will feature a lecture followed by lunch. Books will be available for purchase. All are welcome. Info: 902-5660386; ispstaff@upei.ca

Charlottetown Forum

Essential national conversations at Confederation Centre

Presented by Confederation Centre of the Arts, the Charlottetown Forum includes two days of essential discourse exploring critical topics for Canada at this pivotal moment—from healthcare to climate change to restoring dialogue in polarizing times.

On May 23 and 24, academics, journalists, doctors, artists, and thought leaders will gather for a transformative exchange of ideas on the future of Canada. Forum speakers include Nora Young, CBC tech journalist and broadcaster; Drew Fagan, professor and public policy advisor; Sabreena Delhon, CEO of the Samara Centre for Democracy; Stephanie Arnold, climate specialist at CLIMAtlantic; and Dr. Megan Miller, PEI’s first chief physician recruiter.

Also included on the Forum’s agenda are poetic responses from PEI Poet Laureate Tanya Davis, a performance from the River Clyde Pageant, and a private tour of exhibitions at Confederation Centre Art Gallery.

are welcoming an impressive group of speakers from several provinces and are thrilled to be hosting these engaging conversations.”

Meeting next to the site of the 1864 Charlottetown Conference, the Charlottetown Forum seeks to promote open learning and sharing of diverse perspectives about important issues in Canada. The inaugural Charlottetown Forum took place in 2023 and featured discussions on immigration, economic reconciliation, and finding shared national narratives in a fractured time. The Forum is part of the Centre’s revitalization plan, which includes the creation of a Canadian cultural leadership institute housing new spaces for public discourse, the creation of art, and cultural learning.

JUNE BUZZ DEADLINE

Tuesday, May 13

“Whether you are passionate about social change, intrigued by the role of art in public dialogue, or simply looking for thought-provoking discussions, the Charlottetown Forum turns discussions into experiences that resonate beyond the room,” says Francesca Perez, the Centre’s director of arts education and heritage. “Expect dynamic panels, interactive open discussions, and powerful, inspirational artistic responses.”

“The Charlottetown Forum is an occasion for listening to experts and leaders and considering multiple perspectives on important issues,” says Centre CEO Steve Bellamy. “We

Passes are on sale now. Student pricing is available. For more information or to purchase a pass, visit confederationcentre.com/charlottetownforum, or contact the Centre’s box office via phone at 1-800-565-0278.

(clockwise from top-left): Stephanie Arnold, Sabreena Delhon, Dr. Megan Miller, and Nora Young

An Eve with Carley Fortune

Bestselling author tour stops at Delta Hotel—May 26

Bookmark will welcome #1 New York Times bestselling author Carley Fortune back to Charlottetown for the launch of her new book, One Golden Summer, on May 26 at 7 pm in the Bedeque Cardigan Ballroom at the Delta Hotels Prince Edward.

“An Evening with Carley Fortune,” moderated by Jessica Doria Brown, will be Carley’s only Maritime stop on this book tour.

Following the success of last year’s launch of This Summer Will Be Different, this year’s event is being held in a larger venue. Tickets are limited and include a copy of the book. They can be purchased online through Bookmark at bookmarkreads.ca.

One Golden Summer is a new escape to the lake. Good things happen at the lake. That’s what Alice’s grandmother says, and it’s true. Alice spent just one summer there at a cottage with Nan when she was 17—it’s where she took that photo, the one of three grinning teenagers in a yellow speedboat, the image that changed her life. Charlie Florek was 19 when Alice took his photo from afar. Now he’s all grown up—a shameless flirt, who manages to make Nan laugh and Alice long to be 17 again. Sun-slanted days and warm

Marie Wilson

Reading from her new book at Spring Park United—May 25

Presented by the UPEI Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research and Applied Studies, the PEI Chapter of the Council of Canadians, Spring Park United Church, and Wapna’kikewi’skwaq Women of the First Light, Marie Wilson will read from her book, North of Nowhere: Song of a Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner, on May 25, 1 pm, at Spring Park United in Charlottetown.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established to record the previously hidden history of more than a century of forced residential schooling for Indigenous children. Marie Wilson helped lead that work as one of just three commissioners. She will read from her moving, deeply personal account of the historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission and respond to questions.

“This is a privileged opportunity for United Church members to deepen

nights on the lake with Charlie are a balm for Alice’s soul, but when she looks up and sees his piercing green gaze directly on her, she begins to worry for her heart.

Carley Fortune’s books have sold more than one-million copies worldwide. She is an award-winning Canadian journalist who has worked as an editor for Refinery29, The Globe and Mail, Chatelaine, and Toronto Life She lives in Toronto with her husband and two sons.

Jessica Doria Brown is a CBC journalist based in PEI. Originally from Toronto, ON, she has reported for CBC in Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Ontario. She’s an accomplished reporter, video journalist, radio newsreader, and producer, filing stories across TV, radio, and the web.

our understanding of why the United Church apologized for our part in the deeply harmful Residential School system,” say organizers. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Visit springparkunitedchurch.ca for more information.

Carley Fortune

Chef Michael Smith

Book signing event at Bookmark—May 31

Bookmark, Charlottetown’s independent bookstore, will host Chef Michael Smith for an in-store book signing on May 31 from 10 am—12 noon to celebrate the launch of his new cookbook, Wood, Fire & Smoke: Recipes and Techniques for WoodFired Cooking. Drop by the store at 172 Queen Street, meet Chef Michael, and get a signed copy of his cookbook. Wood, Fire & Smoke is a celebration of the power of live-fire cooking, featuring over 80 innovative recipes and techniques for grilling, smoking, spit-roasting, cooking over coals, and more. Throughout the book, various cooking fires—each with its own purpose—are showcased, including wood ovens, offset smokers, rotisserie rigs, grills, campfires, wood candles, and more. Inside this new cookbook, Smith shares his knowledge and cooking

techniques for building and tending every type of cooking fire as well as how to harness the power of smoke.

Chef Michael Smith and his wife, Chastity, are the proprietors of The Inn at Bay Fortune and the award-winning restaurant FireWorks in Bay Fortune, PEI. Chef Michael is the bestselling author of 12 cookbooks. He has hosted several TV shows on Food Network Canada, appeared as a judge on Chopped Canada, and is a member of the Order of Canada.

For more information, visit Bookmark’s website bookmarkreads.ca.

READERS/WRITERS

Children’s Book Week

Celebrate Canadian Children’s Book Week with stories, music, and interactive activities at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) featuring special guest Willie Poll on May 2 at 1 pm.

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 PEITN, from 2–4 pm, to write, read, share, and listen to poetry in a welcoming space. Upcoming meetings are on May 3, 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.

Kindness story time

Children can enjoy a special story time all about kindness on Wear Purple Day, during Family Violence Prevention Week, at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on May 14 at 1 pm.

Marie Wilson book reading

Marie Wilson will read from her book, North of Nowhere: Song of a Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner, on May 25 at 1 pm at Spring Park United in Charlottetown. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Info: springparkunitedchurch.ca

Susan

Buchanan Hideout scholarship recipient

Nova Scotia writer Brian Braganza is the recipient of the 2025 Susan Buchanan Hideout Scholarship, allowing him to attend a one-week writing residency at The Hideout in North Tryon, PEI. Braganza’s collection Landings explores his experience navigating largely white rural and outdoor wilderness spaces as a racialized man. He is currently working on a collection of essays about belonging and humans’ relationship to land, place, and community for healing. The Hideout residencies provide a lowcost opportunity for writers, wellness practitioners, and other artists to fully dedicate themselves to their creative and personal practices. Susan Buchanan was a well-known Island writer and disability activist who ran a bed and breakfast called The Evening Primrose on The Hideout property with her life partner, Jeanne Sullivan. Info: thehideoutpei.com; brianbraganza.ca

Island Reading Series

Featuring writers from British Columbia and PEI

Island Studies Press presents a coast-to-coast reading featuring visiting writers Jenna Butler and Karen Loucks from the West Coast, alongside local poets Brent MacLaine and Bren Simmers. The event takes place on May 15 at 7 pm in Schurman Market Square, McDougall Hall, UPEI.

Dr. Jenna Butler’s essays about beekeeping, climate grief, and trauma recovery, Revery: A Year of Bees, was a finalist for the 2021 Governor General’s Literary Award and a longlisted title for CBC Canada Reads. A retired professor of creative and environmental writing, Butler works on the land between a collaborative off-grid organic farm in northern Treaty 6 and the unceded traditional territories of the lək̓wəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ peoples of Vancouver Island.

Karen Loucks is the winner of the High Marsh Press Deborah Wills Chapbook Contest (2024) and was longlisted for the CBC Poetry Prize (2023). Her poetry appears in the anthologies Worth More Standing, Sweet Water: Poems for the Watersheds, and Rocksalt: An Anthology of Contemporary BC Poetry. She lives and writes in Victoria, BC, the unceded traditional territory of the lək̓wəŋən speaking peoples.

Dr. Brent MacLaine is a Professor Emeritus at the Department of English at UPEI and the author of six volumes

BOOK CLUBS

Book’in It Walking Book Club

The “Book”in It Walking Book Club meets at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on May 13 at 10 am. Members will enjoy a 20-minute stroll before heading inside to discuss the latest book. Register in advance at 902-436-7323 and pick up a copy at the front desk.

Book Lovers Book Club

The Book Lovers Book Club will meet at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen

of poetry, most recently, A Skeptic in Springtime. He is the recipient of the PEI Book Award and the Atlantic Poetry Award. He grew up in the rural community of Rice Point, PEI. Bren Simmers is the author of five books including The Work, which was a finalist for the 2024 Governor General’s Literary Award and the J.M. Abraham Atlantic Poetry Award. Born and raised in Vancouver, she now calls Epekwitk home.

The event is free and all are welcome. Thanks to Bookmark, books will be available for purchase. For more information, contact Bren Simmers at Island Studies Press, 902-566-0386 or ispstaff@upei.ca.

St) on May 20 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.

Afternoon Book Club

The Afternoon Book Club meets at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on May 26 at 1 pm. Pick up this month’s book at the circulation desk.

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 May 31 at 2 pm at the Summerside Library (57 Central St).

Brian Braganza

PHOTOS

(clockwise from top-left): Dr. Jenna Butler, Bren Simmers, Brent MacLaine, and Karen Loucks

A gift of Island Poetry

BREATHING IN TIME

come, lie in the grass with me. don’t mind your phone, don’t worry about your jeans, either— the morning dew dries fast. don’t hesitate, don’t question— this sunrise will only last so long. if the ground’s too hard, rest your head on my chest and hear the beating. it thumps in time with the earth, spinning and spinning and spinning— don’t you ever feel dizzy? like life’s too fast, too loud, especially now? I do, and that’s why we’re here, watching the clouds tinged in orange, breathing in time with the wind on the grass, tickling our calves.

—Fiona Steele

Fiona Steele is the author of coming home (Acorn Press), which was shortlisted for the 2024 PEI Book Awards for poetry. She previously published a chapbook through Island Studies Chapbooks.

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

2025 Heritage Awards

Islanders recognized for preservation and promotion efforts

Several Islanders and local organizations have been recognized for their efforts in preserving and promoting Prince Edward Island’s heritage.

The PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation, along with Lieutenant Governor Dr. Wassim Salamoun, presented the 2025 Heritage Awards to 20 individuals and eight groups in a variety of categories at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown recently.

The Heritage Recognition Award winners included: Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative; Jennifer Stenhouse; Hanna Wylie; Confederation Centre of the Arts; Parks Canada; Benevolent Irish Society of PEI; Town of Stratford Subcommittee; Sylvia MacPhail and Larry Gaudet; Jacques and Janet Cyr; Kara Griffin; Island Nature Trust; Shawn Larson; Carter Jeffery and Arnold Smith; Dr. Allan MacRae; and Denis Gallant.

Other recipients include: Claude Henry Arsenault, Volunteer of the Year; Julie-Lynn Zahavich, Natural Heritage Activity Award; Dr. Alan MacEachern, Academic Publication of the Year;

MacKenzie Cutcliffe, Catherine Hennessey Heritage Activism Award; Jenny McQuaid, Mary Cornfoot Brehaut Genealogy Award; Under the Spire, Architectural Conservation Project of the Year; and Doug Sobey, Award of Honour.

“These award winners are proof that heritage is not just about the past,” says PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation executive director, Matthew McRae. “It’s a living legacy and all of us benefit from it, right here in the present. Our communities are better when we actively cherish and preserve our heritage, as these inspiring people do every day.”

Florence Simmons Performance Hall

4:00-5:00pm - Mix & Mingle 5:00-6:30pm - Public Presentation

UNDERSTANDING

Learn about PEI’s unique role in advancing Basic Income Guarantee in Canada and how it would impact lives and sectors in PEI. Hear updates on local milestones, national efforts, and what lies ahead. Closing reflections from Island Poet Laureate Tanya Davis.

Barbara Palmer Rousseau, Creative Publication of the Year; Heritage Players, Wendell Boyle Performance Award; Caeley Currie, Boyde Beck Memorial Award;

PEI BOOKS

Meal Planning Made Easy

Julia Stewart

Meal Planning Made Easy by Julia Stewart offers a straightforward approach that helps save time, money, and stress around mealtime—especially for those who struggle to get healthy, home-cooked meals on the table, feel overwhelmed by the idea of meal planning, or want to try it but just can’t find the time.

The book covers why meal planning is important, how to get started and get into the rhythm of meal planning, tips for organizing a kitchen you’ll want to cook in, eight weeks of meal plans, and over 100 simple recipes using regular pantry ingredients.

Julia is passionate about homemaking that works for life in the 21st century. A retired licensed practical nurse with a diploma in business administration and a post-grad certificate in journalism and communications, Julia has acquired a variety of skills she uses in her home every day. She’s the creator of Homemaking Jewels, where she shares practical, efficient ways to manage life at home.

Copies of the book can be purchased locally at Bookmark, Riverview Country Market, Inspired Living, Vesey’s Seeds, Lillibet’s Gift Shop, Clow’s Red & White, Carr’s Gift Shop, Prestige Kitchens in Summerside, Callbeck’s Home Hardware, SeaShell Cafe, O’Leary Co-op, Wellington Co-op, and Tignish Co-op.

Wood, Fire & Smoke: Recipes & Techniques for Wood-Fired Cooking

Michael Smith

Wood, Fire & Smoke: Recipes & Techniques for Wood-Fired Cooking by Chef Michael Smith will be released on May 13.

Having spent a lifetime cooking with a passion for the flame, Smith has mastered the many ways that wood, fire, and smoke go beyond merely cooking food, elevating it instead to crave-worthy meals. Gathering wood, building a fire, tending it, and cooking delicious food with it also offers a connection to the primal art of cooking over fire.

Wood, Fire & Smoke is a celebration of the intoxicating power of live-fire cooking. In over 80 recipes, the book explores the many ways to cook with fire—methods include wood-grilled, wood-smoked, wood oven–roasted (or baked), pit-smoked, plancha-seared, fire-kissed, barbecued, and charcoal-cooked. Cooking fires, each with its own purpose, are featured throughout and include wood ovens, offset smokers, rotisserie rigs, grills, campfires, wood candles, and more.

A book launch will be held during The Inn at Bay Fortune’s opening weekend, May 16–18. Reservations are required (innatbayfortune.com/ special-events-offerings). Bookmark in Charlottetown is hosting a book signing on May 31 from 10 am–12 pm. Drop by the store at 172 Queen Street, meet Chef Michael Smith, and get a signed copy of his cookbook.

Girl Crazy

Erin Suurkoivu

Girl Crazy, by PEI-based poet and writer Erin Suurkoivu, is a gripping coming-of-age novel about love, identity, and the choices that shape

a person. Set in the late 90s and early 2000s, the story follows Fallon Andersen as she navigates the turbulent path from adolescence to adulthood. Struggling with her own desires, ambitions, and past mistakes, Fallon’s journey is one of self-discovery, grappling with trust, betrayal, and the complexities of intimate relationships. Through its raw and emotional narrative, Girl Crazy captures the universal experience of growing up, facing one’s flaws, and learning that even the most difficult choices can lead to growth and understanding.

Suurkoivu is the author of four poetry books; Girl Crazy is her first novel. All of her books are available on lulu.com.

Swinging Between Water and Stone

Stephen Mayoff

“Some will say we are monkeying with the grieving process when we swing between water and stone. Some say love is only courageous when we can let go.”

This excerpt from the poem “Courgette’s From My Sister’s

Garden” is from Swinging Between Water and Stone, a revised edition of PEI author Steven Mayoff’s 2019 poetry collection, which is now being reissued by Galleon Books. The majority of the revisions were focused on rethinking line breaks rather than language, and four new poems have been included.

The collection is divided into four sections that loosely represent birth, life, death, and rebirth. Reincarnation, seen as lacking empirical evidence, is often taken on faith. And yet, something as commonplace as the cycles of the seasons can provide clues to the mysteries that may lie beyond mortality, offering a way to make sense of the end of one cycle and the beginning of the next. These poems are meant to celebrate the wheels within wheels that are constantly in motion throughout the natural world and in imagined landscapes.

The poems in this revised edition are not, strictly speaking prose poems, but Mayoff is trying to use the ideals of prose and poetry to mutually support each other. Or, put another way, he wants the poems to celebrate their inner-prose selves. A two-style solution that seeks to recognize the sometimes uneasy, but always mercurial alliance between language and narrative.

Sometimes You Stay

Liz Johnson

Prince Edward Island’s shores and maritime charm once again take centre stage in author Liz Johnson’s latest novel, Sometimes You Stay, out May 20. This contemporary romance returns readers to the Red Door Inn, showcasing PEI’s thriving dog breeding community and the Island’s irresistible ability to turn visitors into residents. Johnson’s previous PEI-set novels have introduced thousands of readers to the Island’s unique culture and beauty. This new story weaves together

SQUARE Ruby

hic design

modern digital nomad culture with PEI’s traditional way of life, highlighting local landmarks and the close-knit community that makes the Island special.

Travel vlogger Cretia Martin’s home is wherever her suitcase lands. But when she bumps into a handsome man on PEI and her equipment falls into the harbour, she’s forced to stay awhile at the Red Door Inn. As she gets to know the man and the locals, she wonders if she should risk opening her heart and planting roots.

Johnson is the New York Times bestselling author of more than 20 novels, including the Georgia Coast Romance and Prince Edward Island Dreams series.

Crafting Stories From the Past: A

How-To

Guide for Writing Historical Fiction

Jillianne Hamilton

Mari Anne Christie

Crafting Stories From the Past: A How-To Guide for Writing Historical Fiction takes the reader through the lengthy and difficult process of writing a historical novel from scratch—from deciding when and what to research to using facts to build a fictional historical world.

Co-edited and co-written by PEI author Jillianne Hamilton, this compendium of working knowledge and resources from twelve genre experts illuminates the researching and writing process specific to historical fiction. No matter how many books authors have written or their level of success, they will find new techniques, ideas, tools, and resources to help in their journey.

Crafting Stories From the Past is available May 1 at most e-book retailers. To order a paperback copy, email writer@jilly.ca.

Getting Baked with Bikers on LSD & other short stories of my life on PEI

Leona Dalton

The release of Leona Dalton’s first major book, Getting Baked with Bikers on LSD & other short stories of my life on PEI, will be celebrated at a book launch at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown on May 10 from 10 am–1 pm.

Leona’s stories about growing up in rural PEI have historical significance, as they highlight the experiences of those eking out a living in the farming and fishing communities of PEI and those who left the Island for work and adventure.

The launch will feature comments from the author and a member of her writers’ group, snacks, tea and coffee, and music. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. All are welcome.

Black Islander history

Tours of The Bog in Charlottetown

Islanders and visitors can learn about Black Islander history with the Bog Tours. Explore the historic Bog neighbourhood in Charlottetown, where many Black Islanders once lived.

Tours run on Fridays and Saturdays until May 31, starting at Beaconsfield Historic House, 2 Kent St., Charlottetown.

For more information, email peiblackhistorytour@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY #1

Stanhope Historical Society meeting

The Stanhope Historical Society will hold a meeting at Stanhope Place on May 5 at 7:30 pm. Guest speakers will be JP Gaudet and Kevin Lewis, hosts of the popular radio show Saturday Night Hoedown. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome.

PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation AGM

The PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation’s annual general meeting will be held at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside on May 14 at 6:30 p.m. The guest speaker will be Heather Harris, a heritage enthusiast who runs the Instagram and Facebook account Old Island Homes. Heather shares stories, facts, and photos about historic houses and buildings across PEI, aiming to make this information accessible, interesting, and entertaining. This is a free event, and all are welcome.

ADHD monthly meeting

A monthly discussion to talk about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder will take place at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 21 at 7 pm. Peers can seek advice from others on a particular subject or simply have personal experiences and frustrations heard and understood.

Death Café

A Death Café will take place at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 22 at 2 pm. Founded by Jon Underwood and based on the work of Bernard Crettaz, this gathering is a directed discussion—not grief support or a counselling session. Join others to eat cake, drink tea or coffee, and talk about death. Call 902-368-4642 to register. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

AA 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.

Teen volunteer club

Teens interested in obtaining volunteer hours and participating in the teen volunteer club at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) are welcome to meet weekly on Mondays from 4–5 pm to brainstorm and discuss new library programs.

Teen leadership program

Teens aged 13–18 interested in developing leadership skills and helping their community can join a volunteer and leadership program in the Charlottetown

Library Board Room every Thursday from 3–6 pm. Presented by the Boys & Girls Club, this program offers an opportunity to work on a project from start to finish, and make a valuable impact in the community.

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 start 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.

Peace March and Rally

The Island Peace Committee (IPC) will hold a Peace March and Rally on May 10 at 2 pm, giving Islanders an opportunity to voice their opposition to war. Meet at Boulder Park on Grafton Street in Charlottetown. The march will proceed through downtown and return for speakers, music, and poetry. IPC condemns violence against civilians.

Fundraising for Island cats

The Cat Action Team PEI and Keeping Cats Homed will host a joint fundraising event at the Wilmot Community Centre on May 4 at 2 pm. Entertainment for the afternoon will be provided by the Men of the Harvest, and there will be a silent auction, a live cake auction, and a bake sale. All proceeds will support both organizations. Cash or e-transfer accepted. The Centre is located at 110 Gillespie Dr, Summerside. Tickets: 902-394-1584; turner.susan53@gmail.com

Unmasking Mental Health

The Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) 74th annual National Mental Health Week runs from May 5–11. This year’s theme is: Unmasking Mental Health. The Association will raise awareness about the impact that masking can have on mental health, relationships, and well-being. Living with mental health challenges often forces people to hide behind a “mask” to protect themselves from judgment and discrimination. But the heavier the stigma, the heavier the mask becomes—and the more isolated individuals feel. CMHA encourages people across Canada to look beyond the surface and see the whole person. By embracing honesty and vulnerability, Canadians can open the door to deeper connections and the mental health benefits that come with them, creating a ripple effect of courage and understanding across the country. Visit mentalhealthweek.ca to download the Mental Health Week toolkit. Info: pei. cmha.ca

PEI Autistic Adults

PEI Autistic Adults is an online and in-person peer-support group for autistic adults and seniors on PEI to talk about autism, share experiences of navigating PEI as autistic adults, and support each

other. The website, peiautisticadults. com, has a public blog where members can share their views, a private discussion forum, private chat functionality, and links to their social media. There are meetings every Saturday via Zoom. PEI Autistic Adults was started by an autistic senior and currently has over 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.

John Andrew Memorial Fishing Derby

The John Andrew Memorial Fishing Derby will take place on May 31 from 9 am–12:30 pm. Registration is at the Malcolm Darrach Centre, 1 Avonlea Drive in East Royalty. This free, family-friendly event is open to all, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Sponsored by the Wrights Creek and Hillsborough River Associations. For full details, visit their social media pages.

AstroFest PEI

Celebrate International Astronomy Day at AstroFest PEI on May 3 from 1–3 pm at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St). Explore the solar system with the Charlottetown Astronomy Club, enjoy telescopes, crafts, and presentations— and don’t forget to dress as your favourite sci-fi star.

Spring Schoolhouse Social

The PEI Fox Den and Historic North Bedeque School are hosting a Spring Schoolhouse Social on May 31 and June 1. Enjoy artisan demonstrations, live music, and refreshments in a charming heritage setting. For details, visit peifoxden.ca or call 902-303-8327.

Summer Camps

Registration is now open for summer camps at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. A wide variety of summer camps are on offer for youth ages 4–17, including musical theatre, visual arts, dance, choral music, and more. Info/register: confederationcentre. com; 902-566-1267

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. 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. The next meetings are May 6 and 20 at 6 pm.

Brain Injury Association

The Brain Injury Association of PEI meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 2 pm at Canada House, 293 Allen St, Charlottetown. For more info, email jmmcinnis65@gmail.com.

Breastfeeding support

Pregnant individuals and new parents are invited to a breastfeeding information and support meeting on May 27 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 dealing with challenges. Light refreshments are provided and all are welcome to attend. Follow @LLLC.PEI on FB for updates. Info: 902-316-2167

French post-secondary scholarships

French-speaking students can now apply for the 2025–26 post-secondary scholarships offered by the Société Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin Foundation. In partnership with the Société acadienne et francophone de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard, these scholarships aim to support French-speaking students from PEI in their pursuit of post-secondary studies in French. The Foundation offers several scholarships for a variety of profiles awarded through a rigorous selection process based on merit, financial need, community involvement, and career aspirations. The application deadline is May 15. Visit safile.org/boursesdetudespostsecondairesipe for eligibility criteria. Visit form.jotform.com/80673151070247 to apply. Info: fondationssta@safile.org

Agriculture scholarship

Island students attending Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus will soon have access to more financial assistance through the new R. Elmer MacDonald Agricultural Scholarship. The Provincial Government will provide PEI undergraduate students attending Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus with $1500 in student financial support annually. This new scholarship will aim to encourage more Island students to pursue an education and career in agriculture. The scholarship honours and continues the legacy of R. Elmer MacDonald— Order of PEI recipient and long-time leader in PEI’s agriculture industry. Info: princeedwardisland.ca

David ‘Eli’ MacEachern

Bursary applications open High school athletes can now apply for the 28th annual David ‘Eli’ MacEachern Bursary. This $1000 award is open to students graduating in spring 2025 from Charlottetown Rural High School, Colonel Gray High School, or École François-Buote. Established in 1997 in recognition of PEI’s first Olympic gold medalist, the bursary supports a Charlottetown resident who plans to continue their education and development in their chosen sport. Applicants should demonstrate a passion for excellence and a commitment to compete with honour, fairness, and sportsmanship. The application deadline is 4 pm on May 9. To apply, students must submit a short essay explaining how they meet the criteria. Applications can be emailed (jmckinnon@charlottetown.ca), dropped off (City Hall, 199 Queen St), or mailed (City of Charlottetown, PO Box 98, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 7K2, Attention: Jackie McKinnon). Info: 902-629-4101

West Point Lighthouse

150th anniversary for historic Island beacon

In 1875, construction of the historic West Point Lighthouse—nestled along the shores of the Northumberland Strait at the western tip of Prince Edward Island—was completed, and the lamp was lit in December of that same year. The Island’s tallest lighthouse had only two keepers—Lighthouse Willy (1875–1925) and Benjamin MacIsaac (1925–1963)—until electrification in 1963 ended the need for staff. Although the structure is no longer staffed by keepers, its majestic light still burns brightly over the Strait and the local community—a beacon to all.

In 2025, the West Point community, along with other locals and tourists alike, will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the lighthouse and its significance to the history of the province—particularly to the fishers and other seagoing vessels that have travelled the waters between the Island and New Brunswick over the years.

A full calendar of celebratory events will recognize the heritage, culture, and diversity of the lighthouse and the surrounding community through music, art, and storytelling. The celebration kicks off June 7 with an official opening ceremony at the lighthouse, featuring local and Indigenous

performers entertaining dignitaries, special guests, locals, and tourists in attendance. Visitors will be offered free tours of the Lantern Room at the top of the lighthouse that day. An art exhibit featuring the West Point Lighthouse in various mediums will be on display at the Harbourside Centre, and that evening, local musicians Jamie Matthews, Kurk Bernard, and Joey Doucette will perform in concert.

The celebration continues throughout the summer months with a car show, live music concerts, a Canada Day bicycle parade, the Potato Blossom Festival (featuring a mini DiverseCity Festival, boat races, a gospel concert, fireworks, and more), daily storytelling at the beach, and a songwriting competition (submit by August 15 to alellis@edu.pe.ca). The Grand Finale on September 27 will feature the Clements Family Ceilidh, a local group with Indigenous roots.

The 150th anniversary events will conclude with the burial of a time capsule containing items that reflect the history, heritage, and culture of the West Point Lighthouse. It will be buried at the West Point Cenotaph and opened in 50 years, in 2075. westpointlighthouse.ca

Asian Heritage Month

Third year of annual celebrations on PEI

May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada—a time to honour and celebrate the ongoing contributions of Canadians of Asian descent to the country’s history, culture, and society. A vibrant celebration of Asian cultures will take place in Charlottetown and Summerside this May as part of the 2025 PEI Asian Heritage Month Celebration.

On May 10, the event will be held at the UPEI Performing Arts Centre in Charlottetown. On May 17, it will move to Credit Union Place in Summerside.

Hosted by the Asian Heritage Foundation and the Chinese Cultural Foundation, in partnership with various community organizations, these events celebrate Asian traditions, foster meaningful connections, and embrace shared aspirations.

Over the past two years, the celebration has been a tremendous success,

GAMES

Drag Bingo

Drag Bingo is happening on May 1, 15 and 29 at 7 pm at Upstreet Craft Brewing. 41 Allen St, Charlottetown.

Charlottetown Scrabble Club

The Charlottetown Scrabble Club meets on Tuesdays from 5–8 pm at the Charlottetown Library. All skill levels are welcome. Scoresheets, strategy tips, and cheat sheets are provided. Admission is free. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Auction in Dunstaffnage

The card game Auction is played weekly on Fridays at 7:30 pm at Dunstaffnage School Centre. Admission is at the door. 13529 St. Peter’s Rd, Dunstaffnage.

bringing together 500–600 guests, community members, and leaders each time. Building on that momentum, this year’s event will feature even greater participation from Asian communities, artists, performers, and friends.

The celebration promises to once again showcase PEI’s rich cultural diversity, offering a heartwarming opportunity for residents with Asian roots and connections to experience the Island’s unique charm and inclusive spirit.

Guests can enjoy performances from diverse Asian cultures, business exhibitions, social activities, tea, snacks, and more. As always, the events will continue to support the QEH Foundation and local charities.

Doors open at 1 pm. Both events run from 2–5 pm. Traditional or ethnic clothing is encouraged.

For more information, email asianheritage9@gmail.com.

Board game café

Bring family and friends to the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on May 26 at 6:30 pm for an evening of board games. Bring a game or choose to play one of the library’s.

Crokinole

Play a game of crokinole at the Summerside Rotary Library (57 Central St) on May 14 and 28 at 2 pm.

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.

Eptek scavenger hunt

Visitors of all ages are invited to test their skills at Eptek Art & Culture Centre’s scavenger hunts. Try to find all 20 images. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.

Cornhole Tournament

To kick off its 21st season, the American Cornhole Organization (ACO) is hosting its first-ever ACO Canada Major tournament at the Eastlink Centre from September 25–27. Cornhole is a popular sport played in backyards and on professional courts, requiring strict rules, various throwing techniques, and strategic play. Dozens of professional cornhole players will take to the court for a shot at championship titles and prize money. The event includes eight tournament categories for players of all ages, with two open to the general public. Registration opens soon at americancornhole.com/majors.

COMMUNITY #2

Seniors Cafés

Seniors Cafés take place at the Charlottetown and Summerside libraries. The next session at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) is on May 9 at 11 am. Dr. Christine Beck, a clinical psychologist, will discuss how psychologists help with depression and suicidal thoughts. Tea and coffee will be provided. The next session at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) is on May 15 at 1 pm. Mary Lynn and Michael from the Great Enlightenment Buddhist Institute Society will lead a short presentation called “Emotional Resilience & Mindfulness.” Food and refreshments will be provided. All materials will be supplied and registration is not required.

Seniors Navigator

The Seniors Navigator will be at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) for drop-in assistance on May 14 and 28 from 9:30 am–3:30 pm. The Seniors Navigator helps seniors access programs and services from community organizations and municipal, provincial, and federal governments more efficiently.

Community fridges

Betty Begg-Brooks and the volunteers at Gifts from the Heart manage three community fridges. Food donations can be dropped off during operating hours (Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm) at the nearest fridge 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 at the community fridges. Volunteer shifts are from 9 am–1 pm or 1–5 pm. Monetary and food donations are accepted during the week at the Charlottetown office location (10 Maple Hills Ave). Call Betty at 393-0171 for after hours drop-offs, to volunteer, or to register as a client.

Hormone health conversations needed

A women’s wellness event held in Cymbria, PE, last month, sold out

within days of being announced. The overwhelming response demonstrates how needed conversations are around hormone health, burnout, and mental well-being. The event featured personal stories from Island women alongside practical insight from a panel of respected practitioners, including HRT Specialist Rebecca Dunn, Naturopathic Dr. Céline Leduc, Osteopath Laura Hubley, Counsellor Katherine Thompson, and Pelvic Floor Therapist Dr. Paige Rankin. All proceeds were donated to Blooming House Women’s Shelter, a registered charity and safe overnight shelter for women in the Charlottetown area. Organizers are discussing how to make space for more women to take part in future sessions and continue the conversation in meaningful, accessible ways. To be notified of future events, email Julie Ann Gauthier at info@julieangauthier. com or call 403-836-8756.

PEI Spiritual Expo 2025

The PEI Spiritual Expo 2025 will take place at the Rodd Royalty Inn in Charlottetown on May 17 from 9 am–4 pm. The day will be filled with spiri tual enlightenment, personal growth, and education with professional prac titioners. Connect with like-minded individuals, browse through vendors, and attend workshops and presenta tions. Participants can discover new healing modalities, psychic readings, and meditation techniques. The Expo offers something for everyone, from seasoned practitioners to beginners—an oppor tunity to grow and nurture the soul in a supportive space. Online registration is opening soon. On-site tickets will also be available. 14 Capital Dr, Charlottetown. Info: 902-626-9857.

Fossil Day

The public is invited to the 2025 Fossil Day presented by the PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation on May 2 from 1–3:30 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House, 2 Kent Street, Charlottetown. This all-ages event will feature fossil displays, hands-on family-friendly activities, a talk by fossil expert Laura MacNeil,

founder of Prehistoric Island Tours, and more. Admission is free. Donations are accepted, with all proceeds going toward purchasing additional cabinets for new fossil storage. Info: 902-368-6600; peimuseum.ca; @heritagepei

PEI Sport and Recreation Facilities Map

A new online tool is now available to help Islanders easily find information about sports and recreation facilities across the province. The Sport and Recreation Facilities Map at princeedwardisland.ca makes it easy to explore a wide range of options, offering quick access to detailed information with just a few clicks. The map includes everything from sports fields and community centres to gyms and outdoor spaces, as well as helpful details like facility names, addresses, and other key information to help plan activities or events.

Tech help

Members of the public can have their technology questions answered at the Charlottetown and Summerside libraries. Bring devices and questions to the

accessible vision care for children aged 6–12 by ensuring that eligible students and families receive the financial support they need. Developed in partnership with the PEI Association of Optometrists, it covers up to $300 for single vision lenses and up to $350 for specialty or bifocal lenses. The program is available to students who are enrolled in or eligible to be enrolled in grades one through six and possess a current PEI Health Card. Families need to register their child(ren) at healthpei.ca/visioncare to confirm eligibility and to apply. Info: visioncare@ ihis.org; 902-213-2970

Toddler play date

Caregivers and children aged 0–5 can enjoy a toddler play date of movement, exploration, and sensory fun at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 13 at 1 pm.

Homeschooler Hour

Homeschool families can enjoy a variety of activities at Homeschooler Hour at 2 pm on May 6 at the Summerside Library (57 Central St).

The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson

This fragile world

Middle of April, still parka weather. Our morning walk takes us through the summer camp and down the slip to the water.

Lately we’ve been finding tree fossil fragments all along the capes and today is no exception. “Here’s another one!” A smooth red scrap of an ancient pine tree, 300 million years old. Of course the sand is even older than that, but there’s something fascinating about petrified remnants of organic life.

Fossils, sea glass, shells, driftwood— they all vie for attention—but what I find most fascinating today is the stark reality of our fragile world in this place where sea meets land, where water and ice patiently, ceaselessly, carve pillars and caves and inukshuks out of soft island sandstone. It seems impossible that these tenuous sculptures can hold up our island.

“I suppose we’ve lost a foot or two of shoreline this winter,” I muse. “What a shame,” says our neighbour and walking friend. A shame? – but I know what she means. We don’t want our bayberry bushes and cosy summer cottages and ladders and fences and breakwaters to tumble into the sea. We want everything good to last, and this island certainly seems good to us...

And it seems good to the Island’s wild creatures. At the place where brook empties into Cove, the water’s edge is dotted with ring-billed gulls, plus one black duck that seems to belong to the gang, all happily minding their own business. Two plump Canada geese, obviously a couple, take turns foraging in the reeds and marsh grass, one rooting out tasty sprouts while the other stands guard.

Further along the shoreline are large lumps of seaweed… that move… and turn out to be ducks. American black

ducks? Ring-necked ducks? Where are my binoculars when I need them? I don’t know why we love to put names to things, but we do.

In the salt marsh a handful of blue herons have laid claim to the deep brackish pools (the mucky bottomless kind of pools you wouldn’t want to step into by mistake), each bird studying the still black water for a flash of anything edible.

As we tiptoe across the bridge, a soft brown mallard duck and her handsome green-headed consort fly up in a panic, quacking madly. They’re always like this. Their kind has had experience with humans and they don’t like us getting too close. A crow on the power line looks down, throws his head back and caws boldly: “Ha ha ha! I’m not afraid of you!” Crows seem to know that humans don’t consider them good eating.

We cast one last glance back at the Cove. High above the water three large dark birds soar effortlessly: falcons? A flock of tiny birds flying even higher catch the sun on white wings and bellies: terns?— it must be time for these chatty darlings to arrive from their winter retreats in Argentina and Chile.

Back at the highway it’s “See you tomorrow” as we go out separate ways. Crows, ducks, fossils, friends. We’re all part of this fragile world.

WorkSource Alliance

Research project transforms into social enterprise

Entrepreneur Daniel Ohaegbu arrived on PEI in 2014 as an international student from Nigeria. He graduated from UPEI in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree and again in 2019 with a BSc with Honours in Psychology. When working on his honours thesis, he delved into the experiences of international students at Canadian post-secondary institutions, focusing specifically on how Black African men thrive despite systemic challenges and racism. The interviews he conducted opened his eyes to the interwoven struggles and resilience within his community, and they also ignited a spark in him—an entrepreneurial drive to create change. This journey of discovery laid the foundation for his work in the not-for-profit sector and inspired the creation of WorkSource Alliance.

A forward-thinking not-for-profit organization, WorkSource Alliance is dedicated to facilitating meaningful work connections and promoting inclusive organizational practices for international students and graduates. The goal is to empower talented

individuals to overcome systemic barriers and unlock their potential in the workforce.

Through tailored programs, recruitment initiatives, and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) support, WorkSource Alliance empowers a diverse pool of talented international students and graduates to thrive in short- and long-term employment opportunities in Atlantic Canada.

Co-founders Jonah Chininga, Dante Bazard, Khadija Usman, and Elizabeth Iwunwa have a strong belief in the mission of WorkSource Alliance.

With over 1000 users on their platform, the team facilitates over 200 job connections each year, serves over 400 organizations across PEI, and establishes long-term relationships with industry partners.

SATURDAY, MAY 17 | 10AM to 1PM

Advertising: sales@buzzpei.com

Editorial: info@buzzpei.com

Daniel Ohaegbu

SUBMITTED

SALES & SWAPS

Church Mouse Thrift Shop

The Church Mouse Thrift Shop, located across from Englewood School at 391 Nelson Street in Crapaud, holds a thrift sale every Saturday, beginning May 3, from 9 am–2 pm. Each week features new items, including a rotating selection of adult and children’s clothing, books, housewares, bedding, small furniture, collectibles, and more. Proceeds support St. John the Evangelist Church in Crapaud. Info: 902-658-2995; @ stjohnsanglicanchurch on FB

Clothing swap

A clothing swap organized by Wild Child and Pride PEI will take place in the auditorium of the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 3 from 10 am–2 pm. The swap will include a variety of gently used items such as clothing, books, craft supplies, toys, and a mending corner. Early drop-offs can be made at the Voluntary Resource Centre (81 Prince St) on weekdays from 9 am–4 pm, until May 2 at noon. No drop-offs at the library.

Plant swap

Bring plants or cuttings to the Summerside Library (57 Central St) and swap with fellow plant lovers on May 4 at 2 pm. Do not bring any plants that are categorized as an invasive species.

Mother’s Day Art and Flower Sale for Wild Rose Sanctuary

Wild Rose Sanctuary will host a Mother’s Day Art and Flower Sale on May 10 from 11 am–3 pm at Central Christian Church in Charlottetown (223 Kent St). The fundraiser supports the sanctuary’s care for over 70 rescued animals, including horses, donkeys, and other farm animals. The event features original art and prints by PEI artists, live painting, spring flowers for sale, a silent auction, 50/50 draw, door prizes, and light refreshments. Learn more at wildrosesanctuary.ca or on Facebook @wildrosesanctuarypei.

Community Yard Sale and BBQ in Hunter River

Hunter River will host its 10th annual Community Yard Sale in the Central

Queens Elementary parking lot (19821 Rte 2) on May 17 from 8 am–12 pm. The 323 Blue Heron Sea Cadets will also be holding a fundraiser barbecue and bake sale, with coffee available for purchase. The rain date is May 24. To register as a vendor (no home businesses), email natalie@springwillowfarms.com.

Summerside and Area Garding Club Plant Sale

The Summerside and Area Gardening Club is hosting a plant sale at the Wilmot Community Centre (110 Gillespie Ave) on May 17 from 9 am–12 noon. The sale includes various plants and vegetables, gardening crafts, and books. Everyone is welcome.

Our Lady of Assumption Parish Garden Market

The third annual Garden Market at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish Centre in Stratford (145 Stratford Rd) will be held on May 17 from 9 am–1 pm. Visitors will find a wide variety of items for spring gardening, including perennials, seedlings, hanging baskets, tools, and unique garden crafts. There will also be a homemade baked goods table, draws for gift baskets, the popular sale of gently used books and puzzles, silent auctions, and complimentary tea and coffee. All are invited, and admission is free.

St. Mark’s Compost Sale

St. Mark’s Presbyterian’s annual compost sale will take place on May 17 from 9 am–1 pm. The compost, which is seafood provided by Northern Peat, will be for purchase by the bag or in bulk by the scoop. It will be available in the church parking lot at 7 Tamarac Ave in Charlottetown. The sale is cash only, with proceeds funding various church projects. Info: 902-368-8246; 902-892-5255

Pinch Penny Fair

Friends of Confederation Centre of the Arts are accepting donations for one of its annual fundraising events—the Pinch Penny Fair. For over 50 years, this event has raised funds to support arts

education programs at the Centre. This year’s fair will be held on May 17 from 10 am–1 pm at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. Admission is free for children 12 and under. This giant indoor yard sale includes books, sporting goods, toys, plants, music, jewelry, furniture, tools, glassware, and more. Donations for the fair will be accepted at the Centre’s box office entrance (130 Queen St) on May 3 (1:30–5:30 pm), May 9 (3–7 pm), and May 13 (10 am–1 pm and 3–6 pm). Clothing, televisions, and computer donations cannot be accepted. Info: friends@confederationcentre.com

WoHeLo/QEH Auxiliary Spring Clothing Sale

The WoHeLo/QEH Auxiliary will host its three-day spring sale at 144 Dorchester Street in Charlottetown on May 22 from 3–8 pm, May 23 from 10 am–6 pm, and May 24 from 10 am–2 pm. With every clothing sale comes new and updated medical equipment for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). Donors, buyers, and volunteers all know families who have used the NICU and understand the importance of keeping families close to their support systems at the QEH. All proceeds from the sale will go toward the purchase of breastfeeding chairs and a biliblanket for the NICU. These chairs are essential for allowing parents to spend as much time as possible with their babies and to promote skin-to-skin contact. Bring your own bags. The sale is cash only; an ATM is available on site. Follow @qwhauxiliary on FB for updates.

Zion Spring Clothing Sale

Zion Presbyterian’s Spring Clothing Sale will run from 9 am–1 pm on May 30 and 31. Shoppers will find a large selection of adult and children’s clothing, along with shoes, purses, and jewelry. A café and barbecue will be available each day of the sale. Debit and credit cards are accepted. The church is located at 135 Prince St, Charlottetown.

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 (May 31, 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. Visit giftsfromtheheartinc.com for more info.

Canoe Cove Perennial Sale

The Canoe Cove Community Association will be holding its 18th annual Perennial Sale on June 7 from 9 am–12 noon. The sale takes place at the Inman Park in Canoe Cove and will feature hundreds of perennials, annuals, herbs, dahlias, shrubs, trees, and rich compost for the garden—all at very reasonable prices. Proceeds go towards the maintenance and beautification of the historic Canoe Cove School. The canteen will be offering coffee and muffins during the sale.

Bumble bees

Nature PEI meeting with guest speaker

Janelle MacLeod

Janelle MacLeod is the guest speaker for this month’s Nature PEI meeting on May 6. She will speak about bumble bees—explaining the different types of bees found on PEI, focusing on the bumble bee species present, and highlighting why it’s important to know more about them. Attendees will learn about her study methods and results, future study opportunities, and how anyone can help support native bees.

MacLeod holds a Bachelor of Wildlife Conservation from UPEI and has a strong passion for pollinators, insects, and the natural world. She and her co-authors recently published work on the bumble bees of PEI.

Nature PEI meets on the first Tuesday of each month, October to June, at the Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. Admission is free and all are welcome. The meeting begins at 7:30 pm with a sharing of nature observations and a raffle break. Janelle’s presentation will begin at 8 pm and will also be live-streamed on Facebook @naturepei.

PEI Witch Market

The pink edition at The Guild— May 17

The PEI Witch Market will take place at The Guild on May 17 from 12–5 pm. This isn’t your average witch market—it’s dipped in pink and filled with something for every curious soul. Attendees can wander through aisles of quirky crafts, witchy wares, and one-of-a-kind creations from local artisans. Sit for a reading with tarot readers, palmists, and an astrologer— or simply soak in the energy of the day with a slice of vegan pizza in hand and the scent of freshly baked bread in the air. Pink attire encouraged. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.

JANELLE MACLEOD

The Nature of PEI

by Gary Schneider

Thinking warm thoughts

Though it is certainly possible that we can have snow in May, and occasionally even into June, this is the time of year when gardening and growth come to mind. Leaves are breaking out of their protective bud casings. The spring ephemerals—those early awakening wildflowers that disappear in the heat of summer—are popping up all over the place. Once winter is done and we’re inching towards summer, we see change all around us.

Although nature is truly alive throughout the year, May often feels like a rebirth. We hear a lot more birds singing, trying to attract a mate or scare away rivals. Some songsters, such as the black-capped chickadees and the red-breasted nuthatches, have been waiting here all year. Their familiar songs are gentle reminders that creatures other than ourselves have made it through another winter.

But we’re also starting to hear the songs of tourist birds. These are the opposite of the thousands of Canadians—at least up until now—who flock to Florida and other warm parts of the world for some relief from the cold. The redwinged blackbirds that are calling from every wetland, the song sparrows that are singing up a storm, and the migratory warblers have all arrived with the sole purpose of nesting and raising the next generation.

The ”conk-a-ree” of the red-wing reminds us that we’ve made it through another winter. And that the promise of warm, sunny days is just around the corner.

Warm thoughts lead to thinking about gardens and all their beauty and potential. One of the plants that I continue to be in awe of is our native swamp milkweed. It is exciting just to think about these plants. Our native milkweed has a love pink flower and

is easy to grow. Despite its name, you don’t need to have a swamp to be success with this plant. In our nursery at Macphail Woods, it grows well in our relatively dry raised beds that rarely get watered.

As with many plants, the names reflect the conditions they will tolerate, not that they demand. For example, bog birch indeed grows well in boggy areas but doesn’t need those conditions.

Seaside goldenrod thrives in the sandy, dry soils along the north shore, but grows very well in many other places. And dune grass—the truly wonderful plant that sometimes can be the only thing holding our hills of sand together—can do admirably under many other conditions.

But as beautiful as the swamp milkweed is, I would have a hard time growing beds of it just for the flowers. We have literally dozens of native plants that are things of beauty.

Wildflowers such as Canada anemone, blue-flag iris, painted trillium, and virtually all of our orchids are stunning reminders of the beauty all around us. But none of them bring Monarch butterflies into our neighbourhood.

As we’ve seen time and time again, growing swamp milkweed magically attracts these endangered butterflies, who then lay eggs on the leaves. These eggs turn into caterpillars, such as the one pictured above, the caterpillars morph into pupae, and before too long a stunning Monarch emerges. Even with a working knowledge of science, it seems to be a mind-boggling process.

Seeing the first Monarch caterpillar of the season reminds me why I love to garden. In some ways it’s like planting beans while thinking of all the delicious meals that they will become. While the swamp milkweed is a beautiful plant, the Monarchs are really the icing on the cake.

NATURE

Biodiversity workshop

Macphail Woods (269 Macphail Park Rd, Vernon Bridge) is hosting a free biodiversity workshop on May 3 at 10 am. The workshop will introduce a variety of hardy native plants that attract wildlife and beautify yards. Participants will enjoy an educational slideshow and hands-on learning designed to maximize the experience and leave them feeling equipped to make decisions about the land around them—decisions that support wildlife, from pollinators like bees and butterflies to birds. Registration is required at macphailwoods.org.

School of Woodland Ecology

The Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project is offering School of Woodland Ecology workshops this month. Upcoming workshops include Native Tree ID at 9 am on May 3, Native Shrub ID at 12:30 pm on May 3, and Building a late-successional, resilient forest at 12 pm on May 31. Visit macphailwoods.org for details, fees, and to register.

Nature-themed trivia

Nature PEI is hosting a nature-themed trivia night from 6–8 pm on May 7 at Copper Bottom Brewing in Montague. Participants can gather with fellow wildlife enthusiasts to showcase their passion for, and knowledge of, the environment. Register a team of up to six people or sign up as a free agent. There will be various prizes throughout the evening. RSVP by email to naturepei@mail.com.

Functional hedgerows and windbreaks workshop

A free workshop on creating diverse, beautiful, and functional hedgerows and windbreaks using a variety of native plants will take place at Macphail Woods (269 Macphail Park Rd, Vernon Bridge) on May 10 at 10 am. The workshop will begin with a presentation inside the Nature Centre, followed by a walk through the arboretum. Participants will learn about plant selection, spacing, planting, and maintenance. Dress accordingly, as the event will go ahead rain or shine. Registration is required at macphailwoods.org.

PEI Untamed with Kate MacQuarrie

Learn, explore, and reconnect with nature at PEI Untamed with Kate MacQuarrie. Upcoming sessions include Foraging & Cattail Pickles with The Beach Goats on May 17, Edible & Medicinal Plants in Hazelgrove on May 24, Plant Walk of Macphail Woods in Orwell on June 7, Lady Slipper Walk in Milltown Cross on June 14, and Foraging with The Beach Goats on June 21. Info/ register: pei-untamed.com

Birds & Breakfast

Macphail Woods is hosting a complimentary breakfast at the historic Homestead (269 Macphail Park Rd, Vernon Bridge) on May 17 at 7 am. The meal will be followed by a guided birding walk with Dwaine Oakley and Fiep de Bie at 8 am. Everyone is welcome. There is no fee, but registration is required at macphailwoods.org.

Native landscape gardening

Macphail Woods is offering an in-depth exploration of planting with native species on May 24 at 10 am. The workshop will cover plant habitats, and participants will explore the native plants on the property and get answers to their questions about incorporating native species into their yard or outdoor space. There is no fee, but registration is required at macphailwoods.org. Property is located at 269 Macphail Park Rd, Vernon Bridge.

MACPHAIL WOODS

A Monarch caterpillar

TALKS, etc.

Emergency preparedness

The Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) will present about both Emergency Preparedness and the FireSmart™ program from the provincial FireSmart™ coordinator at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 6 at 5:30 pm.

How to obtain a PEI driver’s license

Nicole Noonan from Queens Driving School will give a free information session on how to obtain a PEI driver’s license at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 7 from 6:30–8 pm.

Foster Care Program

Social workers from the Department of Social Development and Seniors will give a presentation on the province’s Foster Care Program at 6:30 pm on May 13 at the Summerside Library (57 Central St). The session will provide an in-depth look at the foster care system, including how it operates, the role of foster parents and how to become one, the needs of children in care, and the rising need for foster families in PEI.

Building a future without ageism or abuse

A program designed to combat ageism and mistreatment of older persons will be presented by the PEI Network to Confront Ageism at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 16 at 10 am. Join the conversation and be part of a growing network that champions respect and safety for everyone.

Island Lecture Series with Heidi Haering

The next Island Lecture Series, hosted by the Institute of Island Studies at UPEI, will feature guest speaker Heidi Haering presenting “The ‘Family Farm’: A Keyword in Prince Edward Island Land Politics.” The lecture will take place in the Faculty Lounge of Main Building on the UPEI campus on May 20 at 7 pm. (This lecture was originally scheduled for March but was postponed due to weather.) Admission is free, and all are welcome. Haering’s talk will explore the struggle to define the “family farm” in PEI, and how this ambiguity helps—or hinders—the work of farmers, agribusiness, and government. She will discuss how participants’ definitions of the

“family farm” often contrasted with how they actually farmed and were sometimes at odds with their ideals. The talk will also shed light on why agribusiness and governments may turn to the pastoral romanticism of the “family farm.” Heidi Haering lives in Charlottetown and recently completed her MA in Anthropology at Memorial University. Her thesis is titled “Three Keywords in the Campaign Against Farmland Consolidation and the Loss of Small Farms: Through the Lens of the Prince Edward Island Chapter of the National Farmers Union.”

Quiltivism with Bill Stearman

Adult members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community can drop-in at PEERS Alliance on May 21 from 6–8 pm for a presentation on “Quiltivism” with Bill Stearman. Currently touring Canada, Bill is a Queer Elder from Ontario who will discuss his expression of activism— and past, present, and future Queer struggles— through the art of quilting. Snacks will be provided and there is no fee to attend. 250b Queen St, Charlottetown.

Wills and estates

Community Legal Information PEI will present a free information session on wills and estates at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) on May 21 from 6–8 pm. Topics include wills, power of attorney, and picking an executor.

Viking traditions in modern boat design

The Vinland Society returns to the PEI stage with an event that connects the crowning pinnacle of Viking technology to a bustling modern boatyard. Kevin Jeffrey, a Viking enthusiast since childhood, will trace developments in Viking shipbuilding that enabled early sailors to break free of the Scandinavian Peninsula and “go viking” to distant lands. Powered by immense squaresails, Viking “knarrs,” or cargo ships, island-hopped across the Atlantic as far as North America, and just maybe, to PEI. Kevin now lives his Viking dreams by inserting Norse design elements (lapstrake hulls, sails, and oars) into the vessels he constructs at the NorseBoat boatyard in Flat River, PEI. An actual NorseBoat will be on display in front of the meeting hall, so attendees can personally feel the echoes of ancient seafaring technology. The event starts at 7 pm on May 25 at the Beaconsfield Carriage House, 2 Kent St, Charlottetown. Kevin’s program will follow a brief AGM. Admission is free to all, but cookie-jar donations will be gladly accepted.

ISSUE# 377 • MAY 2025

buzzpei.com @buzzpei

Editor/Sales: Yanik Richards

Editor: Michelle Ollerhead Website: Nakeesa Aghdasy

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

Contributors: Emily Benoit, Julie Bull, Dennis Ellsworth, Sean McQuaid, Takako Morita, Sylvia Ridgway, Tara Reeves, JoDee Samuelson, Gary Schneider, Bren Simmers, Fiona Steele, Ashleigh Tremere

Office: 160 Richmond Street, Charlottetown

Mail: P.O. Box 1945, Charlottetown, PE C1A7N5

Phone: 902-628-1958

E-mail: info@buzzpei.com

Social Media: @buzzpei

The Buzz is published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc.

The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Compensation for errors in advertising copy which are the proven responsibility of the publisher is limited to a maximum of the cost of the placement of the advertisement.

Little Kit Bag Inc., operating as The Buzz, acknowledges that we are located on and operate on Mi’kma’ki, the traditional unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people who have lived here for many thousands of years, and who continue to live here.

Sylvia Ridgway started her artistic career in Kingston, Ontario, where she took a course in batik at the Frontenac School. Since returning home in 1980, she has produced a vast portfolio, interpreting the beauty of the Island. Her work is held in private and public collections around world. She has been included in group and solo exhibitions locally and regionally.

A retrospective of Sylvia’s work will be on display at the Studio Gallery in Victoria from May 26 to June 8.

COVER:

Ladies of the Forest, 2008, batik on cotton, 14”x 9”, by Sylvia Ridgway.

HEELS & WHEELS

Cornwall Run Club

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

Colour Run & Walk

UPEI Medical Brigades is hosting a Colour Run & Walk on May 3 in the Charlottetown area! Participants can run or walk a 1.6 km or 5 km route and enjoy a fun colour powder experience. Both routes will begin near the Charlottetown Airport. The 1.6 km run/walk will end back near the airport, while the 5 km run/walk will finish near the Winsloe Lions Club. A free barbecue and social will follow for all participants. All ages and fitness levels are welcome. In-person registration will be available, with budget-friendly pricing. On-site sign-in opens at 9 am. Route maps and start times will be announced soon. The rain date is May 4. This event is not affiliated with The Color Run™.

May Flower Walk

The annual May Flower Walk, sponsored by the Tracadie Good Neighbourly Club, will start at the Tracadie Community Centre on May 4 at 2 pm. Walkers will search for the first flowers of the season. Everyone is welcome and there is no fee. 148 Station Rd, Tracadie.

Stroll with Pride PEI & PEERS

Take a stroll with Pride PEI and PEERS Alliance this month. On May 10 in Kensington, walkers will meet at C & B Café (55 Broadway St N) before heading out on a 2 km walk along the Confederation Trail to the John A. Hogg Kensington Public Forest. Once there, participants can take a break or explore the 2.7 km trail through the forest. On May 17 in Montague, the group will meet at The Lucky Bean (576 Main St) and enjoy a 3 km stroll along the Confederation Trail by the waterfront. In both locations, groups will gather at 11 am, depart at 11:30 am, and return to the starting venue to wrap up the walk. Refreshments will be provided. All are welcome—including pets. For more info, visit pridepei.com.

Cycling 101

On behalf of the Active Transportation Coalition, SAFE Summerside will present a hands-on bicycle maintenance demonstration for all ages at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on May 20 at 6:30 pm. Topics will include bike maintenance, proper seating and sizing, cycling safety, preparedness, and more.

Walk for Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer Society of PEI is hosting the annual IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s on May 24. Walk in one of three PEI locations: Charlottetown, Summerside, or Montague. Participants can visit walkpei.ca to choose their walk location, decide how they’d like to participate, and complete the registration form. The Walk raises crucial funds that allow the Alzheimer Society of PEI to offer programs and services to meet the needs of people living with dementia and their caregivers across PEI.

Community hike

Macphail Woods is hosting a free, family-friendly community hike on May 31 at 10 am. Participants will have a chance to get to know both their neighbours and the trails. The hike is intended to be strenuous, rather than a casual stroll— so bring water and dress accordingly. Registration is required at macphailwoods.org. The property is located at 269 Macphail Park Rd, Vernon Bridge.

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 from May 31–June 15. The event is aimed to bring hope, awareness, and support to the endometriosis community. Participants can run, jog, walk, or join virtually. To register and for more info, visit endometriosisnetwork.com.

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 or learn more at kidneywalk.ca.

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, at any level. There are no expectations for distance or speed—participants can choose to 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, who understands firsthand the “grind” of living with diabetes and uses distance running to help manage his blood sugar. 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

Demystifying E-Bikes for Seniors

Cycling PEI hopes to spark new hobbies and new friendships at a free event for seniors, organized in partnership with Rising Tides E-bikes, on June 7 at the Culinary Institute parking lot, 4 Sydney St, Charlottetown. Riding sessions start at 9 and 11 am, and are followed by free refreshments. Advance registration required at ccnbikes.com/#!/events/ demystifying-e-bikes-for-seniors, or con tact Cycling PEI at info@cyclingpei.org or 902-368-4985 for assistance in reserving a spot. This event is open to those aged 60 or older. Participants must already know how to ride a conventional two-wheeled bike. All participants will be given basic e-bike lessons and have a chance to test out and get comfortable with their e-bikes in the parking lot before heading out on a guided group ride.

Victoria Park active transportation path open

The City of Charlottetown is advising residents that the Victoria Park active transportation pathway is open for the season. Vehicular traffic will be permitted to travel one-way through the park via the outside lane. The inside lane will be for active transportation use, which includes any form of non-motorized transportation like walking, cycling, wheelchair use, rollerblading and skateboarding. The active transportation pathway will remain open until the end of October.

EPEKWITK | PEI’S GUIDE TO WHAT’S GOING ON

Tiffany Liu and company, Music PEI Awards Gala 2025 (photo: Emily Benoit)

Sleeping Beauty

Ballet Jörgen brings classic to Harbourfront Theatre—May 10

Following past visits to Harbourfront Theatre with Cinderella, Romeo and Juliet, and Anne of Green Gables–The Ballet ®, Canada’s Ballet Jörgen returns to Summerside on May 10 at 7 pm with their production of Sleeping Beauty

This acclaimed ballet, choreographed by Bengt Jörgen, tells the story of Aurora and her prince. The fairy tale is about a young woman placed under a spell to sleep for a hundred years only to be awakened by a kiss. The underlying theme is the tug between the forces of good (the Lilac Fairy) and evil (Carabosse), serving as an important thread to the plot. Told in three acts, the ballet benefits from the character development and technical expertise.

Charles Perrault’s story La Belle au bois dormant.

Charlottetown Festival

Company members announced for 2025 musicals

Sleeping Beauty by Ballet Jörgen draws on the traditional choreography by Marius Petipa to spin a tale of nature and love.

The story will be danced to the original 1890 score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, set to a libretto based on

Fandango Musical

Players

Fairytale fun at Summerside Rotary Library—May 10

Families are invited to an afternoon of fairytale fun at the Summerside Rotary Library on May 10 at 1 pm. The Fandango Musical Players will be on hand to share stories, sing a few favourite songs, and perform lighthearted skits for children and their families.

The professional company will also be joined on-stage by youth members of local PEI dance schools. Visit harbourfronttheatre.com for tickets.

Irish Set dancing

Tuesdays in May at BIS

Dance to traditional Irish reels, polkas, jigs, and more at the Benevolent Irish Society in Charlottetown at 6:30 pm on Tuesdays in May. Instructors and dancers will guide participants through easy-to-learn partner dances.

This is social dancing for fun. Couples and singles with all levels of experience are welcome; No previous experience required. Light, smoothsole shoes and comfortable attire are recommended. There is a small fee. All are welcome. Irish ancestry is not required to enjoy this cultural dance. Info/register: fredchorne@gmail.com; 902-675-4246

and

and Million Dollar Quartet at The 2025 Charlottetown Festival. Playing at the Sobey Family Theatre, the Confederation Centre of the Arts’ main stage, the productions are crosscast—meaning many company members appear in both productions.

Alan Doyle returns to the lead role in Tell Tale Harbour, a hilarious homegrown show about a small Atlantic fishing harbour willing to do anything to save their community. He will be joined by Island talent Jacob Hemphill, Melissa MacKenzie, and Kristen Pottle.

Back by popular demand after its world premiere in 2022, Tell Tale Harbour is an original Canadian musical comedy that will make audiences laugh, sing, and feel proud of wherever they call home. Actors Laurie Murdoch and Alison Woolridge will also reprise their roles in the production, and be joined by fellow Festival alumni AP Bautista, Stephen Guy-McGrath, Susan Henley, and Daniel Williston.

company members Frankie Cottrell, Connor Lucas, and Kale Penny will take on the parts of rock and roll legends Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins in Million Dollar Quartet. Islander Jacob Hemphill will play Johnny Cash, with Festival alumni Stephen Guy-McGrath and Jamie McRoberts rounding out the cast. The smash-hit jukebox musical tells the story of one of the greatest jam sessions ever and features songs that defined an era, including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “I Walk the Line,” “Great Balls of Fire,” and more.

Company members making their Festival debut this summer include Karen Burthwright, Joel Cumber, and Gabrielle Jones.

Performances of Tell Tale Harbour run June 14–August 29.

Performances of Million Dollar Quartet run from June 17–August 30.

Tickets for all Festival shows can be purchased at the Centre’s box office, online at confederationcentre.com/festival25, or via phone at 1-800-565-0278.

Islanders

several familiar faces will star in the musicals Tell Tale Harbour

Festival

(top): Alan Doyle; (L–R): Kristen Pottle, Jacob Hemphill and Melissa MacKenzie

Watermark Theatre

Local

Watermark has announced the artistic team working on its summer plays: Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise and Stephen Mallatratt’s The Woman in Black

PEI actor Brandon Stafford will star in both shows, joining actors Caroline Bell and Paul Van Dyck in bringing the characters to life. The artistic team also includes Robert Tsonos and Rahul Gandhi, directors; Sabrina Balliana, set and costume designer; Ryan Rafuse, lighting designer; and Rehan Lalani, sound designer.

Stafford, known to PEI audiences from several plays with Feast Dinner Theatres, will be playing the leading roles of Jack in Dear Jack, Dear Louise and Kipps in The Woman in Black

Dear Jack, Dear Louise will run from June 24 to August 30 under the direction of Robert Tsonos. The play is an inspiring reminder of the best we can be, even in the worst of times.

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 and based on the novel by Susan Hill, will be performed from July 4 to August 29 and directed by Rahul Gandhi. In the shadowy

season

corridors of an old Victorian theatre, a young actor meets a haunted lawyer compelled to unravel the sinister secrets that plague his nightmares. Together, they recount the tale of a young solicitor who ventures to the eerie marshlands of the English countryside to settle the affairs of a recently deceased woman. Audience members can expect a riveting theatrical journey through the unknown—one that keeps them on the edge of their seats and sends shivers down their spines. This haunting play ran for three decades in London’s West End.

Individual tickets and ticket passes (four- and six-packs) are now on sale at locarius.io/organizations/26 or by calling the box office at 902-963-3963. watermarktheatre.com

The Body & The Belvedere

Original murder mystery at Haviland Club—May 10 & 11

The Haviland Club in Charlottetown presents The Body & The Belvedere, a murder mystery directed by Gordon Cobb. Performances of this original play take place on May 10 at 7 pm, and at a special Mother’s Day Matinee on May 11 at 2 pm.

In April 1872, Esther Lowden is hosting the first-ever ball in her new home — the building now known as The Haviland Club. She says the ball is to honour the builder of her house, described in the newspaper as “a gem on the Charlottetown waterfront.” But Esther has other, more personal reasons for wanting to dance.

During the evening, a young couple sneaks off to the upstairs belvedere

and makes a shocking discovery. The police are called in, but Esther’s home and reputation are at stake. Whodunit? The architect? The builder? The railway magnate on the verge of the scandal that brought PEI into Confederation the following year? Or was it the captain of Esther’s ship, Rival—a man she secretly admires? Esther sets out to solve the mystery. And the audience can too. Who will solve it?

Desserts and sweets will be served. For tickets and reservations, email thehavilandclub@gmail.com or call 902-330-0889. The Haviland is located at 2 Haviland St, Charlottetown.

SUBMITTED

Brandon Stafford

PEI actor Brandon Stafford to star in summer

Island Boys

Stand-up comedy at Trailside Music Hall—May 14

Island Boys live stand-up comedy will be on stage at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on May 14.

Two of Canada’s Island-dwelling comedians, Prince Edward Island’s Shawn Hogan and Vancouver Island’s Dan Duvall, unite the country’s coasts through jokes—often at the rest of the country’s expense.

Doors open at 6:30 pm. Show time is 8 pm. Visit trailside.ca for tickets.

A Couple of Nice Women

Maggie Estey and Katherine Cairns at PEI Brewing Company

Comedians Maggie Estey and Katherine Cairns will be on stage at PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on May 2 at 7:30 pm.

These two Nice Ladies have some thoughts to share. Cat hair, healthy digestion, online dating, and marriage —they’ll cover it all.

Tickets are available at peibrewingcompany.com. 96 Kensignton Rd.

YAH Theatre

Final public shows for NEXT!

After touring Island community care facilities, long-term care, hospitals, and community halls this spring, Young at Heart Theatre presents a special fundraising performance of NEXT! on May 2 at 2 pm at the Crapaud Community Hall, with pay-what-you-wish admission, refreshments, a 50/50 draw, and door prizes.

A second public performance will take place May 3 at 2 pm at the St. Peters Circle Club in St. Peters Bay. Call 902-393-1482 for tickets.

This original one-act musical, written and performed by Gabrielle Roddy and Greg Ellard, with music by Susan Stanger and direction by Catherine O’Brien and Wade Lynch, follows a year in the lives of two older actors who form a friendship through a series of auditions.

Tracy & Martina Shootin’ The Sh!t

Live show at PEI Brewing Company—May 24

CBMF presents Cape Breton comedy queens Tracy & Martina at PEI Brewing Company on May 24 at 8 pm, bringing their real take on Maritime life to a live audience for their PEI debut.

The pair are known from their viral videos, CBC Comedy, Swearnet alongside The Trailer Park Boys, and their chart-topping podcast Shootin’ the Sh!t. Audience members can expect improv, storytelling, and “if there’s something you’re Just Wonderin’ or Flippin’ about, you can take the mic and tell ’em.”

Tickets are available at peibrewingcompany.com. 96 Kensignton Rd, .

Bad Words for a Good Cause

Comedy in support of PEERS Alliance at Upstreet—May 10

Michelle Petite at Punch Lines (NB)

Bad Words Productions brings stand-up comedy to Upstreet Craft Brewing in Charlottetown on May 10 at 8 pm with Bad Words for a Good Cause: PEERS Alliance

Headliner Michelle Petite will be joined by feature comedian Katelin Dean, guest Tanya Nicolle and host Cive Lucas.

Tickets are available at eventbrite. com. A portion of the proceeds will go to PEERS Alliance. Upstreet is located at 48 Allen St, Charlottetown. peersalliance.ca

Comedy by the sea

Patrick

Ledwell brings new show to Victoria Playhouse

This summer, the Victoria Playhouse invites audiences to roll in the aisles in a brand new way. The Playhouse will host the debut of Comedy Night Victoria by the Sea, a two-night-only festival celebrating stand-up comedy and storytelling tradition. 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 long-running hit, The Debaters. Patterson is famous for keeping audiences across Canada engaged with heartfelt stories, incredible off-the-cuff wit, and original songs. In short, Patterson packs much more than punchlines into his show.

“I’m so excited to bring Steve to a summer theatre on PEI,” says Ledwell. “He’s a comedy hero and now a good friend. If you love The Debaters on the

radio, you can imagine how much fun he’ll be live.”

Ledwell will kick off both shows with a new opening set, showcasing the brand of honest and smart comedy that has brought him from PEI venues to national stages, with regular appearances on The Debaters.

“I got a huge first opportunity to be on stage with comedy in Victoria, doing two seasons of a show called The New Potato-time Review. It’s such a welcome opportunity to return, to this very special theatre.”

Both shows will be hosted by much loved CBC voice, Matt Rainnie, who has recently hung up his microphone on Mainstreet and is looking forward to bringing his storytelling in new directions.

Comedy Night Victoria by the Sea runs two nights only, July 7 and 8. Tickets can be purchased online at victoriaplayhouse.com.

Live at Red Shores Charlottetown—May 30

Canadian stand-up comedian Jon Dore takes the stage at the Red Shores Charlottetown on May 30 at 8 pm. Island comedian Shawn Hogan will open the show. Winner of the 2023 JUNO Award for Best Comedy Album and named one of “10 comics to watch” by Variety Magazine, Dore is renowned for his offbeat humour and unique bait-andswitch style.

He is a favourite on the comedy club and festival circuit—appearing on Just for Laughs, Comedy Central, Conan, Baroness Von Sketch Show, @ Midnight, Inside Amy Schumer, Hart of Dixie, a guest starring role on How I Met Your Mother, and more. Shawn Hogan has produced and

starred in hundreds of comedy shows throughout the East Coast and beyond. He has made national television appearances as part of the Halifax Comedy Festival and has been featured on CBC Radio’s Laugh Out Loud and on Sirius XM’s JFL Originals. For tickets, visit redshores.ca. John Dore

Steve Patterson (left) and Patrick Ledwell

Jon Dore

(L–R): Dan Duvall and Shawn Hogan

Review by Sean McQuaid

Sweet zomic relief

What’s Eating You?

The Guild, Charlottetown March 27, 2025

Weird old man that I am, I was probably the only person in the packed opening night audience of zombie dramedy What’s Eating You? who kept thinking about His Kind of Woman, RKO’s 1951 film noir starring Robert Mitchum and Jane Russell.

At first glance it’s a seemingly random connection, even by the oft-erratic standards of the ramshackle Pachinko machine masquerading as my brain; but there is a link here, and the key is classic horror icon and occasional zombie slayer Vincent Price.

His Kind of Woman went through near-endless rewrites and reshoots under meddling RKO studio boss Howard Hughes. His changes expanded the supporting role of Hollywood ham actor Mark Cardigan (played by real life Hollywood ham Vincent Price), who morphs into a campy action hero and steals the movie out from under its designated stars.

Some critics feel Hughes’ tinkering ruined a perfectly fine conventional noir thriller. Me, I love Price’s kooky, over-the-top Cardigan despite – or maybe because of – the film’s tonal whiplash. When Cardigan’s really cooking, an ordinary noir picture becomes something weirder, sillier and much more fun.

Which brings me back to What’s Eating You? (WEY for short), a heartfelt-message-driven drama that veers intermittently into surreal zombie apocalypse comedy and is immeasurably better for it; only instead of Vincent Price, we have Cameron Bennett MacDonald and Graham Putnam stealing every dang scene they’re in as zombie apocalypse characters Steve & Peter, with results that are equal parts ridiculous and glorious. In various forms of development since 2020, WEY is written and directed by PEI community theatre veteran Jay Gallant. The play’s main plot, about a woman coming out as a trans man after decades of denial and self-loathing, is deeply personal for Gallant, a trans man himself and a trans rights activist and educator.

Not surprisingly, this is a very message-driven play, and it works well enough on that level. The show’s themes of self-acceptance, tolerance and pro-trans sentiment are expressed with sincerity, heart and frequent leavening comedy.

But what elevates the play beyond its knowing-is-half-the-battle, eat-your-vegetables, very-special-episode levels of earnestness is Gallant’s deft trick of blending his trans

quasi-memoir with zombie apocalypse content. Anytime the play’s message starts feeling heavy or heavy-handed, wacky zombie-related antics inject some bizarre comic relief. Or zomic relief, this being a “zomedy” and all.

In a fresh twist on the old play-within-a-play structure, WEY ’s main character Sam (played by Ash Arsenault) has an identity crisis triggered during a zombie apocalypse role-playing game (RPG) hosted by Sam’s semi-estranged childhood friend Laura (Kassinda Bulger) and her husband Denis (Noah Nazim). Putnam, MacDonald and Marli Trecartin all play characters in the game. Gallant’s script ping pongs back and forth between Sam’s realworld soul-searching and scenes from the zombie RPG, sometimes blending the two in unexpected ways.

Arsenault is the least dynamic or showy performer of the bunch, but he gives Sam a sympathetic sad-sack everyman vibe and dials up the role’s energy in spots as needed. Bulger, often a backstage figure or improv comedian, reminds us she’s a very talented, genuine and engaging dramatic actor as Laura, while Nazim makes a yummy scenery-chewing meal of his role as melodramatic dungeon master Denis. Trecartin lends likable support in multiple roles (one of several cast members doubling as various flashback folk from Sam’s memories), and a very funny MacDonald shows impressive range in the play’s most complex role as an RPG character who becomes Sam’s advisor and confidant; but for sheer entertainment value nothing tops the oddball genius of Putnam, who spends much of the play as a zombie turned implacable undead running gag – well, more of a shambling or staggering gag, but you get the idea.

Gallant and producer/stage manager Grace Kimpinski do a lot with a little here by using big-screen background projections to establish locations despite sparse set dressing. Backed by The Guild, PEERS Alliance and PEI Transgender Network, this plucky indie production succeeds largely due to its crackerjack cast and Gallant’s often self-satirizing, cleverly split-personality script, which sweetens its didactic themes with an oddball undead candy coating. Or to paraphrase Mary Poppins: A spoonful of zombie comedy helps the messaging go down.

Dessert Buffet Included Both Shows Th e Ha vi la nd Saturday, May 10, 7pm

S un day May 11, 2p m (Mother ʻs Day)

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

Apr 30 | 7:30 pm

The Ennis Sisters

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

Apr 30 | 7:30 pm

ABRA Cadabra

Tribute to ABBA. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

May 1 | 7:30 pm

Shaun Majumder: Cool Dad Tour

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

May 1 | 8 pm

Island Jazz: Iván Garnica Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown

May 1 | 8 pm

Garrett Mason

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 1–3 | 7:30 pm, May 4 | 2 pm

Black Comedy by Peter Shaffer

Seaside Theatre Company. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 2 | 7 pm

Sherwood School Playground

Fundraising Show

Ft. host Patrick Ledwell and local performers including Lawrence Maxwell, Brooke MacCarthur, and Vintage 2.0. Eastlink Centre, Charlottetown

May 2 | 7:30 pm

A Couple of Nice Women

Ft. Maggie Estey and Katherine Cairns with host Hugh McLarty. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

May 2 | 7:30 pm

Old Man Luedecke

Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

May 2 | 7:30 pm

The Céline Experience

Tribute to Céline Dion. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 2 | 8 pm

Hit The Coast Album Launch

With Benny Von and Emilea May. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 2, 3

YAH Theatre: NEXT!

May 2 (2 pm): Crapaud Community Hall, Crapaud

May 3 (2 pm): St. Peters Circle Club, St. Peters Bay

May 2–3 | 8 pm

Soundtrack Songbook

Ft. Brielle Ansems, Melissa MacKenzie, Braeden Woods, Mike Ross, Drew Cassibo, and Kirk White. Harmony House, Hunter River

May 3 | 11:30 am

Confederation Centre Youth

Chorus: Beautiful As You Feel

Confederation Centre Memorial Hall, Charlottetown

May 3 | 2 pm

Many Journeys

Fundraiser for the Hall. Bonshaw Hall, Bonshaw

May 3 | 7:30 pm

Walk The Line

Tribute to Johnny Cash. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 3 | 7 pm

Drag Show with Molly Pocket

Upstreet Craft Brewing, Charlottetown

May 3 | 8 pm

Kelley Mooney & Route 225

Tribute to Bonnie Raitt. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 3 & 4 | 8 pm

Gammons & Knorr EP release concert

With Shane Pendergast and Romy Munkres & Jesse Periard.

May 3 (7:30 pm): The Pourhouse, Charlottetown

May 4 (2 pm): Listeners’ Room at Glenaladale, Tracadie

May 4 | 3 pm

PEISO: May the Fourth Be With You

The Music of Star Wars. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

May 4 | 7:30 pm

Classic Troubadours Live

The Songs of James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne & Carole King. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 8–9 | 7:30 pm

Black Comedy by Peter Shaffer

Seaside Theatre. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 9 | 8 pm

Brothers MacPhee

Tribute to Nirvana (Unplugged in NY). Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 9 | 7:30 pm

Amabile Singers: And Together Singing Harmony

Ft. pianist Sara White and The Four Hoarsemen. St. Peter’s, Charlottetown

May 10 | 2:30 pm

Harmonia Youth Choir: The Songs We Weave

Park Royal United, Charlottetown

May 10 | 2 pm & 7 pm

dance umbrella: Year End Showcase

Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown

May 10 | 7 pm

Ballet Jörgen: Sleeping Beauty

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 10 | 8 pm

Joce Reyome

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 10 | 8 pm

Lady Soul

Harmony House Theatre, Hunter River

May 10 | 7:30 pm

Bad Word for a Good Cause: PEERS Alliance

Ft. Michelle Petite, Katelyn Dean, Cive Lucas and Tanya Nicolle. Upstreet Craft Brewing, Charlottetown

May 10 | 7 pm, May 11 | 2 pm

The Body & The Belvedere Haviland Club, Charlottetown

May 11 | 1 pm

The Brunch Prophets

Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

May 11 | 2 pm

Kelley Mooney, Keelin Wedge & Christine Cameron

Tribute to Dolly Parton. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 11 | 2:30 pm

Forte Men’s Choir: The Water is Wide

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

May 11 | 3 pm

Dayna Pirso

Red Island Cider, Charlottetown

May 14–16 | 6:30 pm

Moana Jr. The Musical

Parkside Elementary School. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 14 | 8 pm

Island Boys Live Stand-up

Comedy

Ft. Shawn Hogan & Dan Duvall. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 15 | 7:30 pm

Fiddlers’ Sons

Souris Show Hall, Souris

May 15 | 8 pm

Sue Foley Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 16–17 | 8 pm

Gypsy

Tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 17 | 7:30 pm

John Reischman and The Jaybirds

Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 18 | 2:30 pm

Amabile Singers: And Together Singing Harmony

Ft. pianist Sara White and The Four Hoarsemen. Hillcrest United, Montague

May 18 | 8 pm

Jake Vaadeland & Shane

Pendergast

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 20 | 8 pm

Colonel Gray High School

Senior Performance Showcase

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 21 | 7:30 pm

The Jack Pine Folk Club

Ft. Shane Pendergast, Whitney Rose, Brent MacLaine, Luisa Güiza. The Pourhouse, Charlottetown

May 21 | 8 pm

Kelly McMichael & Space Bud

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 22 | 1 pm

Sound Series Collective: Drone Day 2025

Kirk of St James, Charlottetown

May 22 | 8 pm

PEI Songwriters Contest Finals

With host Lawrence Maxwell. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 23 | 7:30 pm

The Good Brothers

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Stages for Students

New program to develop youth engagement with theatre

For World Theatre Day 2025 (March 27), Summerside’s Harbourfront Theatre launched a brand-new program, Stages for Students, in memory of their founding volunteer Marcia Whelan, who passed away in 2024 at the age of 84. This groundbreaking initiative will reimagine how young people access and engage with theatre. As such, it aims to develop and nurture a new generation of performing arts enthusiasts, audiences, and theatre makers.

Thanks to a generous donation of $25,000 from Marcia Whelan’s sons, Bill and Scott, in her memory, Harbourfront Theatre has been able to launch this program, which will facilitate attendance by providing free theatre tickets to schoolchildren. It will also enable local schools to stage their own productions on Harbourfront’s stage.

Marcia Whelan was a passionate advocate for the arts and a dedicated educator. From 1997 to 2018, her unwavering commitment to Harbourfront Theatre’s volunteer program helped grow the group into a thriving membership that today surpasses 130 volunteers. Dozens of our long-serving members were recruited and trained personally by Marcia. She also volunteered hundreds of hours at Harbourfront events, particularly enjoying productions with a young audience element—whether programming for local schools to attend or those productions the schools themselves staged for families and the community. In these ways, Marcia contributed indelibly to Harbourfront Theatre’s growth, development, and ongoing significance in Summerside and Prince County. The fund will

celebrate her life and contributions while continuing to make the arts accessible to young audiences—a cause she truly valued.

Benefactors Bill and Scott Whelan says, “The Stages for Students program is such a fitting way to honour Mom and her passion for education and the performing arts. She loved to entertain, make people smile, and she was at times hilarious. She also loved being part of the Harbourfront Theatre community. We are so pleased to be able to provide this gift in Mom’s memory.”

Mary Dennis, Harbourfront Theatre’s Executive Director, says, “By fostering accessibility to theatre and nurturing a love of the performing arts in local schoolchildren, Harbourfront Theatre’s Stages for Students will ensure Marcia Whelan’s legacy continues to inspire future generations—creating a vibrant connection between the arts and education in our community, in a way that Marcia would have cherished. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Bill and Scott Whelan for the incredible gift in Marcia’s memory.”

To find out more about Stages for Students and sign up for email updates, visit harbourfronttheatre. com/stagesforstudents

The Wizard of Oz

Havenwood Studios brings classic to the Carrefour Theatre

Havenwood Studios is inviting audiences to follow the Yellow Brick Road in its upcoming live production of The Wizard of Oz, directed by John MacCormac. This magical, family-friendly musical adventure will be performed at the Carrefour Theatre in Charlottetown on May 30 at 7 pm, and again on May 31 at 2 pm and 7 pm.

The production promises a journey “over the rainbow” into the Land of Oz, brought to life with unforgettable characters and classic songs. The cast

Black Comedy

Seaside Theatre Company production—May 1 to 4

Seaside Theatre Company’s third production, Black Comedy by Peter Shaffer, is coming to the Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside. Performances will take place May 1, 2, and 3 at 7:30 pm, and May 4 at 2 pm.

Black Comedy is a British farce with a twist. Brinsley Miller has borrowed expensive furniture from the absent antique dealer next door, hoping to impress his fiancée’s father and a wealthy art dealer. The fussy neighbour returns just as a blown fuse plunges the apartment into darkness. Brinsley must return the furniture before the lights are fixed, while dealing with unexpected guests, aging spinsters, and tangled phone cords.

The twist: when the stage lights are on, the characters believe they’re in the dark; when the lights are off, they think they’re in the light. This reversal means the audience can see everything the characters can’t. As the evening descends into chaos, hilarity ensues as Brinsley tries to salvage the night from one disaster after another.

Directed by Stuart Smith and Al Harrington, with stage management by Vanessa MacArthur and Katie Kelly, the cast includes Mark Enman, Dominique Lapierre, CarolAnne Luddington, Zachary Martin, Emmeline Meister, Shelley Schurman, Meghan Skerry, and Ashley Vautour. Visit proatlantic.tickepro.ca to purchase tickets.

Technology Hits the Peppers

Barb Perry comedy at St. Mark’s—May 29 to 31

The St. Mark’s Performers will present Technology Hits the Peppers, a three-act comedy written and directed by Barb Perry. Performances take place on May 29, 30, and 31 at 7 pm at St. Mark’s Presbyterian in Charlottetown.

ARTS EDUCATION

Tickets must be purchased in advance. To reserve, call Barb at 902368-2620, Lois at 902-368-8246, or the church office at 902-892-5255. Fudge will also be available for purchase at the show.

features Addison Perry as Dorothy, Arielle Foulkes as the Scarecrow, Spencer Knudsen as the Tin Man, and Caleb Arsenault as the Cowardly Lion. Together, they set off in search of the Wizard, meeting colourful characters and discovering the true meaning of home, heart, and courage.

With music, magic, and memorable moments, this beloved story is for audiences of all ages.

To reserve tickets, call or text 902-314-1800.

Exploring Performing Arts Camp

Exploring Visual Arts Camp

Kinder Performing Arts Camp

Musical Theatre Intensive Camp

Intermediate and Junior Dance Camps

Youth Choir Camps: Fundamentals

The Light of Stars

Luminos Ensemble concludes eighth season—May 25

What do Gregorian chant, tuned water glasses, Leonardo da Vinci, and “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” have in common? All are featured in Luminos Ensemble’s final concert of the season, The Light of Stars, on May 25 at 2:30 pm at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown.

In this all-a cappella program, PEI’s ECMA Award-winning professional choir will present a musical exploration of humanity’s obsession with space, stars, and the music of the spheres— performing works spanning more than a thousand years. Highlights include Renaissance master Claudio Monteverdi’s “Sfogava Con Le Stelle,” Ēriks Ešenvalds’s haunting “Stars,” Eric Whitacre’s virtuosic tour-de-force

Beautiful As You Feel

PEI performers close LIVE @ the Centre season—May 3

Join the Confederation Youth Chorus for Beautiful As You Feel at Memorial Hall on May 3. The songs in this choral performance celebrate the joy in each moment, share ways to show

Feast of Music

Choral showcase in Montague

The Feast of Music Choir Concert will take place on June 1 at 7 pm at Hillcrest United in Montague.

and

“Leonardo Dreams of His Flying Machine,” a chant by 11th-century mystic Hildegard of Bingen, and more.

Featuring the unaccompanied voices of the Ensemble, the concert will take the audience on a thrilling, haunting, and charming journey to the stars and back.

Tickets are available at the door or online at luminosensemble.com.

(and grow) the love in our hearts, and remind us that every one of us can make the world more beautiful.

On May 10, after a full season of training, over 200 dance umbrella students will perform their year-end showcase in the Sobey Family Theatre. The performance will feature a variety of dance styles, including ballet, contemporary, jazz, and more.

Tickets can be purchased online at confederationcentre.com, via phone at 902-566-1267, or in person at the Centre’s box office.

The annual choral showcase will feature the Hillcrest Senior and Youth Choirs, A Joyful Sound Community Choir, and The Sibbick Sibling Singers—a musical family of singers.

Admission is by donation, and a lunch will follow the concert. Everyone is welcome.

25th anniversary concert

The Stratford Community Choir is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a celebration concert on June 1 at 2 pm at Spring Park United in Charlottetown. Everyone is invited to attend.

Directed by Lori Linkletter, the choir is working hard to produce a memorable event.

The choir was the dream of Dunstan MacDonald, who wanted a community choir in the Stratford area. With the help of his wife, Heather, friends Neil and Gail MacDonald, and the mayor at the time, Michael Farmer, that dream came to fruition in 1999.

For 10 years, the Town of Stratford supported the choir financially as they became ambassadors for the town at several “Stratfords of the World” cultural gatherings in various countries.

The choir has sung at many venues on the Island—Remembrance Day services, nursing homes, church services, and more—and has earned awards in numerous music festivals. It also established the annual Dunstan and Heather MacDonald Bursary, awarded to a school choir in the Queens County Music Festival.

Kelley Mooney, a charter member of the choir, will be joining as a guest on June 1. The audience will also be treated to some choral singing, featuring a number of genres.

Tickets are available from choir members or at the door. Ticket rates are available per person and per family (no matter the size).

The Water is Wide

The Forte Men’s Choir offers its annual musical bouquet for Mother’s Day on May 11 at 2:30 pm at the Kirk of St. James in Charlottetown.

A bouquet? Yes—a multicoloured variety of springtime musical blossoms.

The concert title, The Water is Wide, is taken from a folk song about love. There’s an invitation to merry-making—a drinking round by Mozart. Then, a triple-decker of rollicking sea pieces: “The Wellerman,” “Fogarty’s Cove,” and “Drunken Sailor”—as well as an eerily mournful song from whalers trapped in Arctic ice.

Add two hits from Les Mis, and a couple of lyrical pieces: “Skye Boat

Song” and “The Parting Glass.” And the Forte men hope you’ll “Save the Last Dance for Me.”

Forte is an 18-member male choir— two ranges of tenor, plus baritone and bass—directed by Dr. Margot Rejskind. Margot is known for her leadership of the professional Luminos Ensemble and Luminos Chamber Orchestra, as well as the Island Choral Society. Jacqueline Sorenson Young provides piano accompaniment for the choir, and Ross Boyd is the guest guitar artist. Admission is cash-only at the door. For more information, follow @ Forte - PEI Mens Choir, email islandchoralsociety@gmail.com or phone 902-628-6778.

Forte Men’s Choir led by Dr. Margot Rejskind

Hildegard of Bingen, Claudio Monteverdi,

Eric Whitacre are three of the featured composers

Stratford Community Choir celebrate at Spring Park United

Guest singer Kelley Mooney

Forte Men’s Choir Mother’s Day performance at the Kirk

From Disney to The Duke

Charlottetown Jazz Ensemble with James Ronahan—May 30

The 19-member Charlottetown Jazz Ensemble will perform music ranging from Toy Story, The Simpsons, and The Incredibles to Fats Waller, Sinatra, and Duke Ellington at Florence Simmons Performance Hall on May 30 at 7:30 pm. The band will also accompany guest vocalist James Ronahan in an eclectic mix of standards and show tunes.

James Ronahan, a UPEI music student entering his third year of studies, recently performed to great acclaim in a revival of Godspell staged in Charlottetown and Summerside. His vocal talents will be featured on the Disney hit “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” Fats Waller’s “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” the Sinatra standard “Come Fly With Me,” and the Thad Jones ballad “A Child Is Born.”

The Charlottetown Jazz Ensemble, founded in 1995, boasts several of PEI’s leading jazz soloists, including Dan Rowswell (alto sax), Peter Wynne (tenor sax), Jacob Reddin (trombone),

and Leo Marchildon (piano). Among the selections on the band’s setlist are music from The Incredibles, Duke Ellington’s version of Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Overture,” a raucous romp through “The Simpsons Theme,” and an epic big band showcase called “Latin Dance.”

This is an all-ages and licensed event. Tickets are available online through Ticketpro.

And Together Singing Harmony

Amabile Singers spring concerts—May 9 & 18

Amabile Singers present their spring concert, And Together Singing Harmony, on May 9 at 7:30 pm at St. Peter’s in Charlottetown. This well-loved chamber choir, now in its 12th season, is directed by Clem Carelse and supported by collaborative pianist Sara White.

Choir members will present time-tested chorale selections including Randall Thompson’s “Alleluia,” Edward Elgar’s “My Love Dwelt in a Northern Land,” and Ola Gjeilo’s “Ubi Caritas,” and feature favourite Canadian composers, including Stephanie Martin, PEI’s Evan Hammell, and Oscar Peterson.

Should audience members feel compelled to burst into song during Peterson’s “Hymn to Freedom,” they can blame it on the concert title—and give in to the urge.

A special treat for the audience will be the guest appearance of The

Carried by the Water

A choral journey with PEI Legion Choir

The Prince Edward Island Legion Choir, under the direction of Travis Boudreau, invites music lovers on a journey through the waters that shape our lives. Their upcoming concert, Carried by the Water, explores this theme through a unique blend of sea shanties, Maritime folk songs, and evocative compositions inspired by the stormy shores of Canada’s East Coast. The choir will perform on May 25 at 2 pm at the Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside, and on May 31 at 2 pm at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown.

Carried by the Water takes the audience on an emotional voyage, celebrating the powerful connection between water and the people who live beside it. The program includes traditional sea shanties—once sung by sailors to make the hard work of sailing more bearable—as well as songs reflecting the Maritime culture of Canada. From crashing waves to still waters, the music captures the many moods and meanings of water—its life-giving qualities, tempestuous storms, and role in the livelihood of Atlantic Canadians.

Of particular note are songs inspired by the Maritime people of Canada—fishermen, sailors, and coastal communities—honouring their stories, struggles, and triumphs. The choir will also perform pieces that explore the influence of water on our lives, including music created using water itself and songs evoking the sounds of nature.

Known for its rich harmonies and powerful performances, the PEI Legion Choir promises a concert as moving as it is memorable.

Tickets are available at the door or in advance at peilegionchoir.ca. All proceeds support the ongoing efforts of the PEI Legion Choir.

Music to Greet the Spring

Definitely Not the Symphony (DNTS), PEI’s orchestra for all-comers, will present its annual spring concert, Music to Greet the Spring, on June 1 at Steel Recital Hall in Charlottetown. Showtime is 2 pm. Admission is pay-what-you-can with a suggested donation of ten dollars.

Four Hoarsemen, a barbershop quartet featuring two members of the Amabile Singers.

And a special treat for the choir: taking the show on the road. This concert will be performed a second time on May 18 at 2:30 pm at Hillcrest United in Montague.

For both concerts, suggested admission is payable by cash at the door or by freewill offering. All are welcome.

DNTS at Steel Recital Hall

Charlottetown Jazz Ensemble (above) and vocalist James Ronahan

Amabile Singers

PERFORMANCE

music, theatre, dance, comedy…

…continued from page B6

May 23 | 8 pm

FauxFX & Magic 93

Tributes to NOFX and Green Day. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 23–24 | 7:30 pm

Anything for Love - the Music of Meatloaf

Craig Fair Productions. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

May 23–24, 30–31 | 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

May 24 | 7:30 pm

A Fandango Fairytale

Fandango Musical Players. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 24 | 7:30 pm

Bobcaygeon

Tribute to The Tragically Hip. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

May 24 | 7:30 pm

Silver Wolf Band

Souris Show Hall, Souris

May 24 | 8 pm

Tracy & Martina Shootin’ The Sh!t Live Show

PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

May 25 | 2:30 pm

Luminos Ensemble: The Light of Stars

St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

May 25 | 7:30 pm

Susan Aglukark

This Child 30th Anniversary Tour Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 25 | 8 pm

Songs on Fire: Live and in the Round

Songwriter circle with Ben Kunder and guests Shane Pendergast and KINLEY. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 25 & 31 | 2 pm

The PEI Legion Choir: Carried

by the Water

May 25: Eptek Art & Culture Centre, Summerside

May 31: St. Paul’s, Charlottetown

May 27 | 8 pm

LeFunk

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 29 | 8 pm

Mo Kenny

With Sophie Noel. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 29–31 | 7 pm

St. Mark’s Performers:

Technology Hits the Peppers

St. Mark’s Presbyterian, Charlottetown

May 30 | 7:30 pm

Charlottetown Jazz Ensemble with James Ronahan

Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlotteown

May 30 | 7:30 pm

Country Legends

Ft. Gordon Cormier & Dave Pike. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown

May 30 | 8 pm

Jon Dore Live

With Shawn Hogan. Red Shores, Charlottetown

May 30 | 8 pm

Tributefest: 21 Gun Salute & Bad Reputation

PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown

May 30–31 | 7 pm

May 31 | 2 pm

Havenwood Studios: The Wizard of Oz

Carrefour Theatre, Charlottetown

May 30–31 | 7:30 pm, May 31 | 2 pm

Country Roads

Craig Fair Productions. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside

May 30–31 | 8 pm

Matt Minglewood Band

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

May 31 | 2 pm

The Road to Fortune School of Music 2025 Graduation Concert

Fortune Community Centre, Bay Fortune

May 31 | 7:30 pm

Taylor Buote & The Stolen Goods

Tribute to Chris Stapleton. Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

May 31 | 7:30 pm

Dusted with Kim Barlow Souris Show Hall, Souris

June 1 | 2 pm

International Children’s Memorial Place Fundraising Concert

Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

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 | 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, 12, 26 | 7:30 pm

Greg n’ Gab & Gab n’ Greg Variety Show

Ft. Gabrielle Roddy & Greg Ellard. The Guild, 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, 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 | 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

Skydiggers

Trailside Music Hall, 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, 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

Musical youth

Some PEI Kiwanis Music Festival Association events in May

Kings County Music Festival

Many young musicians in Eastern PEI are putting the final touches on their performances in preparation for the upcoming Kings County Music Festival, which runs from May 5–9 and features piano, voice, choral, and instrumental classes. The public is invited to attend.

The week will conclude with the Awards Night Concert on May 16 at 6:30 pm at Hillcrest United in Montague.

Magdalena von Eccher will adjudicate the piano classes. Based in Charlottetown, she is Assistant Professor of Piano at UPEI. She studied at the University of Lethbridge, UBC, and McGill, and is an award-winning performer and educator.

Marion Abbott will adjudicate the vocal and choral classes. A graduate of Sheridan College’s Musical Theatre program, she is a vocal coach, accompanist, and playwright with over 1000 accompaniment tracks on YouTube for teachers to use, and two original musicals to her name.

The full program and schedule is available at peikmfa.ca/kings-county.

Queens County Music Festival

This year’s annual Queens County Music Festival runs from May 5–16 in Charlottetown. Affiliated with the Federation of Canadian Music Festivals and the PEI Kiwanis Music Festival Association, the festival will showcase a lineup of young musicians at Park Royal United, Spring Park United, and Steel Recital Hall.

Adjudicators Clement Carelse, Esmée Gilbert, Robyn Cathcart, James Kalyn, Mary Castello, and Danielle Sametz—all professional musicians— will provide encouraging feedback on each performance.

The Rosebowl Competition will be held on May 9.

For more information, visit peikmfa.ca/queens-county.

PEI Kiwanis Music Festival Provincial Finals

The PEI Kiwanis Music Festival Association, now in its 78th year, is presenting this year’s festival of PEI’s young amateur musicians and community ensembles. Performers have been recommended to the Provincial Finals from their local festivals, which take place in early May in Montague, Charlottetown, Summerside, and O’Leary. The Provincial Finals take place in Charlottetown on May 30 and 31 at Steel Recital Hall on the UPEI campus and Park Royal United.

There will be solo performers competing in a range of disciplines— including musical theatre, piano, organ, voice, strings, woodwind, and brass—as well as school and community choirs and ensembles. Performances receive adjudicator feedback, and a winner is selected from each age group in every discipline. In addition, adjudicators will recommend some senior and advanced competitors to represent PEI at the National Festival in July.

Competitors have put many months of hard work into preparing for the festivals, and being recommended to the Provincial Finals is a great honour. All sessions, at all festivals, are open to the public, and everyone is invited to attend in support of these young musicians.

To support the festival through donations, sponsorship, volunteering, or other contributions—or to find information about festival schedules and programs—visit peikmfa.ca.

The PEI Kiwanis Music Festival Association is a registered non-profit organization and issues tax receipts for any donation over ten dollars.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Previous Kiwanis Music Festival performers Matilda and James

PEI RECORDINGS

Echoes of a Vanished People

Jim O’Leary

Echoes of a Vanished People is a new recording by Island composer Jim O’Leary, released by the Centrediscs label on May 2. With a focus on intimate songs for soprano and small ensembles, it surveys music composed between 2007 and 2022 for long-time collaborator, singer Helen Pridmore. Themes of nature, longing, and the otherworldly are central to all compositions. The album includes a setting of poems by Newfoundland author Michael Crummey. Another song, “Susan Pennefather Gray”—originally commissioned to celebrate PEI’s 2014 Sesquicentennial—was recently selected for performance at the prestigious ISCM World New Music Days 2025 Festival, being held in Portugal.

In addition to Pridmore, the recording features David Rogosin (piano), Karin Aurell (flutes), Eileen Walsh (clarinet), James Gardiner (trumpet), and Dale Sorensen (trombone). jimoleary.net

Richard WOOD Live! 2

An Evening of Celtic Music

Richard Wood

available online at rwood.ca and will soon be available on all streaming platforms.

Distributed by Symphonic Music, the album was recorded live at the 5th annual sold-out “Richard WOOD & Friends” event at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown on January 31, 2025.

From Wood’s high-energy jigs, reels, and strathspeys to his poignant, emotionally rich pieces, listeners are treated to the full experience of what it feels like to be part of his live audience.

Musicians on the album include Wood (fiddle), Brent Chaisson (guitar, percussion), and Kimberley Holmes (keyboard). It was recorded, engineered, and mastered by House-Front’s Jesse Périard and Studio Dimanche’s Brent Chaisson. The album cover photo and graphic design are by Faye WilliamsWood.

“Bittersweet Surprise”

Brooke MacArthur

Rising PEI country artist Brooke MacArthur unveiled her new single “Bittersweet Surprise” on April 18. It is available on all streaming platforms.

Produced by Music PEI’s Producer of the Year, Colin Buchanan, “Bittersweet Surprise” is a smoky, blues-infused country gem. Drawing inspiration from the raw honesty of Megan Moroney and the grit of Chris Stapleton, the single tells the story of giving up on love—only to have it find you when you least expect it. With its laid-back groove, effortless vocal delivery, and timeless production, the song hits that rare sweet spot between modern polish and classic country soul.

MacArthur has earned national attention with her soulful voice, signature low register, and heartfelt storytelling. Her singles—including a duet with PEI troubadour Lawrence Maxwell—have received extensive radio play, including on SiriusXM’s Top of the Country. She’s performed at Cavendish Beach Music Festival and shared stages with The Reklaws, Tim Hicks, and Steven Lee Olsen.

Copper Bottom presents

Three main events in May

Old Man Luedecke

May 3 ›› 7:30 pm

Old Man Luedecke is the recording name of two-time JUNO Awardwinning, Polaris Prize-nominated, and multiple East Coast Music Awardwinning singer-songwriter Chris Luedecke. Known for his high energy banjo driven stompers, touching guitar ballads and dry, humorous stories, he has been making a soundtrack to an authentic life for nearly twenty years.

Mother’s

Day Gospel Brunch

The Brunch Prophets May 11 ›› 1–3 pm

Classic Troubadours

Harbourfront Theatre in May

Classic Troubadours Live: The Songs of James, Joni, Jackson & Carole will perform at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on May 4 at 7:30 pm.

The recorded works of seminal singer-songwriters James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, and Carole King are eternal. Hamilton-based singer-songwriter Jacob Moon leads a troupe of veteran indie artists and performers to honour the timeless songs

The Brunch Prophets bring their mix of classic R&B, folk, and country gospel to Copper Bottom Brewing for Mother’s Day. Treat your mother to brunch while enjoying some soulful tunes. The Brunch Prophets are Cameron MacDuffee, Karen Graves, Melissa MacKenzie, and Chris Corrigan.

Echoes: A Night of Chris Stapleton

Taylor Buote & The Stolen Goods May 31 ›› 8 pm

Channelling the raw grit and soulful melodies of Grammy Award-winning Chris Stapleton, Taylor Buote & The Stolen Goods will serve up a night of country, blues, and rock n’ roll. The four-piece band hailing from PEI, brings the heart and soul of Stapleton to the stage with a whole lot of energy and maybe just a touch less hair.

Tickets for these performances are available in the taproom or online via Eventbrite. These events are 19+. If you plan to dine, reservations are recommended. Doors open at 11:30 pm (brunch) or 5:30 pm (evening). 567 Main St, Montague. copperbottombrewing.com

of these four songwriting legends. Moon will play guitar and sing alongside keyboardist and vocalist Alex Whorms, singer Ashley St. Pierre, and vocalist Selena Evangeline. Rounding out the group is bassist Mark McIntyre, and drummer Rob Brown. harbourfronttheatre.com

Richard’s 11th album—the second in a live two-album set—Richard WOOD Live! 2: An Evening of Celtic Music, is

The Brunch Prophets perform on Mother’s Day

Reischman & The Jaybirds

Bluegrass and roots band at Harbourfront Theatre—May 17

Grammy-winning and JUNOnominated bluegrass and roots band

John Reischman and The Jaybirds will take the stage at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on May 17 at 7:30 pm.

John Reischman and The Jaybirds offer a stylish take on bluegrass, seamlessly blending original songs and instrumentals with Appalachian old-time music to create a unique sound. Now in their 20th year, with seven acclaimed albums and two JUNO nominations, the Jaybirds are both innovative and unadorned, sophisticated yet stripped-down—happily old-fashioned and 21st-century contemporary.

Bluegrass Unlimited calls John Reischman “one of the world’s undisputed masters” of the mandolin, known for his outstanding tone and taste. Many of his original instrumentals—like the jam standard “Saltspring”—have become session and cover favourites. He has released three critically acclaimed solo albums and played on numerous projects, including the Grammy-winning True Life Blues: The Songs of Bill Monroe. John also performs Latin-based jazz and choro music with finger-style guitarist and composer John Miller; the duo has released three albums.

Tickets: harbourfronttheatre.com

Country Legends Tribute Show

Newfoundland duo return to Kings Playhouse—May 30

The Country Legends Tribute Show returns to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on May 30 at 7:30 pm.

Gordon Cormier and Dave Pike, both from Newfoundland, have been delighting Playhouse audiences for years with their renditions of country classics. Expect favourites from Charley Pride, George Jones, Conway Twitty, Merle Haggard, and Johnny Cash, along with Newfoundland songs, jigs, and reels.

Gordon Cormier, formerly of the family group The Cormiers, earning six MusicNL awards and an ECMA nomination for Group of the Year (2008). He’s also performed solo for over 40 years, playing a wide range of instruments, including guitar, mandolin, fiddle, pedal steel, bouzouki, button accordion, banjo, harmonica, and bagpipes.

Jack Pine Folk Club

Music and poetry at the Pourhouse—May 21

Island folk singer-songwriter Shane Pendergast will bring PEI’s beloved Jack Pine Folk Club to the Pourhouse stage for a night of music and poetry on May 21.

The show will feature Island country songwriter Whitney Rose, poet Brent MacLaine, and singer-songwriter Luisa Güiza.

Admission is at the door. Doors 7 pm, showtime 7:30 pm.

Dave Pike, formerly of the duo Dave & Aubrey, is known for hits like “Bartender’s Sweetheart” and “Little Jimmy’s Christmas.” Signed by RCA Records, the duo received a CCMA nomination in 1982. Dave also performed solo on Marine Atlantic ships for 30 years.

Tickets: kingsplayhouse.com, 902-652-2053, or at the door one hour before showtime.

Country songwriter Whitney Rose

SUBMITTED

John Reischman (mandolin) and The Jaybirds

SUBMITTED

Dave Pike (left) and Gordon Cormier

ONGOING MUSIC

ceilidhs, dances, series, sessions...

Aaron’s Jam Jar

Aaron Stevenson hosts a monthly community jam at the Bonshaw Community Centre. The next date is May 17 from 1–4 pm. Admission is free and all are welcome. 25 Green Rd, Bonshaw.

Assumption Ceilidhs

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

Dunstaffnage Ceilidh

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

Got Blues Matinee

Got Blues, led by Chris Roumbanis with friends Mike Robicheau and Alan Dowling, hosts a weekly Saturday matinee from 2–4 pm at the Salvadore Dali Café. Each week, a special guest joins the first set, followed by an electric blues jam in the second. There is no cover charge; they pass the hat. The upcoming performances feature: singer Kenny Pearl & singer/guitarist James Phillips (May 3); singer/harmonicist Colin Campbell (10); Outside for Street Feast with singer Annette Drapeau Corbett from NS & saxophonist/keyboardist Todd MacLean (17 from 2:25–3:10 pm); singer/guitarist Mark Haines (24); singer/guitarist Anica from NB & singer/keyboardist Doris Mason from NS (31). 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Ceilidhs at the Irish Hall

The Benevolent Irish Society’s ceilidhs feature local bands and musicians. Doors open at 7 pm and music now starts at 7:30 pm. The upcoming lineup includes Fiddlers’ Sons (Eddy Quinn, John B Webster, Fiona MacCorquodale and Keelin Wedge) on May 23 and Fullerton’s Marsh (Frank MacDonald, Randy Dibblee and Willie Arsenault) on May 30. Tickets are available at the door or online at benevolentirishsocietyofpei.com. 582 North River Rd, 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: Mango Street Trio (May 1); Chris Corrigan Group (8); Nico Romero Dada (15); SOPA Grad Party (22); Canadian Jazz with Pat Nabuurs (29). Admission is by donation. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Stratford and Area Lions Club

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 Legion 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 from 2–5 pm. Admission is at the door. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.

Sunday Blues Jam

Dan Doiron hosts a weekly blues jam on Sundays from 2–5 pm at Copper Bottom Brewing. Each week, a special guest joins him for the first set before the floor opens for others in the second. The upcoming guests are Brian Pawley (May 4), no jam (11), Todd MacLean (18), and Mike Robicheau (25). Free admission. 567 Main St, Montague.

Trad Night at Village Green

A 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.

Very Best of Up West

Artist and songwriter Blair “Arnie” Gaudet, joined by bass player Wade Carragher, 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 fun-filled, jam-style atmosphere at the pub. The guest for May is Sandra Jones. Reservations are recommended by calling 902-853-0000. Info: @albertandcrownpub on FB. 480 Main St, Alberton.

Winsloe United Celidh

The next fundraising ceilidh at Winsloe United is on May 25 at 2 pm. Host Jacinta MacDonald and the Winsloe United House Band welcome special guests Tip ‘Er Back and Darlene Bradley, who will perform traditional material written by Allen Betts and Clive Currie, along with country, gospel, Irish, and old rock ‘n’ roll. 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.

Ceilidh in the City

Pre-season fundraising concert at Park Royal United

The popular summer concert series, Ceilidh in the City, is kicking off early with a special pre-season fundraising performance in Charlottetown. Featuring Kendall Docherty and the Ceilidh in the City Band, the lively concert takes place June 7 at 7 pm at Park Royal United, supporting the church’s ongoing community programs and outreach initiatives.

The band includes well-known Island performers Kendall Docherty on vocals and keyboard; Peter Burke on vocals, rhythm guitar, and harmonica; Brian Knox on drums; and Brian Blacquiere, a talented multi-instrumentalist on lead guitar, banjo, and fiddle. With decades of experience performing across the Island, this dynamic group

brings a rich variety of musical styles. Tickets will be available for purchase starting May 7 through Eventbrite, at the church office, or at the door on the evening of the performance (cash only). Admission is free for children. The office is open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8:45 am to 4 pm, and Wednesday from 8:45 am to noon.

For more information, call 902-894-9656.

Fiddle Fandemonium 3

Five fiddlers exploring five styles of traditional music

Richard Wood Live! will present Fiddle Fandemonium 3 on June 6 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—with fiddlers taking the lead, sharing tunes, stories, and styles.

Joining PEI fiddler Richard Wood on stage are fiddle masters Ivan Hicks, Tim Chaisson, Karine Gallant, and Melissa Gallant. Together, they’ll explore five fiddle styles—Old Tyme, Acadian, Irish, Scottish, and Cape Breton—celebrating the deep roots and exciting evolution of traditional music across the East Coast and beyond.

Supporting this lineup are musicians Kimberley Holmes and Vivian Hicks on piano, and Brent Chaisson on guitar. The evening also shines a spotlight on Samuel Stretch, the inaugural recipient of the Wood Family Fiddle Scholarship, and features energetic dance performances by Isla RousseauxBridle and Alexis MacLaren.

Centre 150 is a fully accessible, softseat theatre with free parking. Audience members can also enjoy an onsite treat from Holman’s Ice Cream Truck (try the Richard Wood Twist). Artist merchandise will be available for sale, and there will be a 50/50 draw with proceeds supporting the Wood Family Fiddle Scholarship at Holland College.

Fiddle Fandemonium is an annual celebration of culture, creativity, and community. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Show time is 7:30 pm. Advance tickets for general seating are available at square.link/u/7HqYR0Nw?src=sheet, or call 902-330-3293. E-transfer payments can be sent to richardwoodlive@ hotmail.com. Remaining seats will be available at the door. Hotel, dinner, and show packages are available—visit rwood.ca for more information.

The Kids

Students perform at Fortune Community Centre—May 31

The Road to Fortune School of Music students will present their 2025 Graduation Concert on May 31 at 2 pm at the Fortune Community Centre in Bay Fortune. Under the direction of Prof. Mark Haines, “The Kids” will perform an eclectic repertoire ranging from violin-based tunes, jigs, and reels—like “Mason’s Apron” and Pachelbel’s “Canon in D”—to a rock set of 70s-style popular songs (think The Beatles and Fleetwood Mac).

Admission to the concert is by donation at the door.

Kendall Docherty and the Ceilidh in the City Band

Susan Aglukark

30th anniversary tour of This Child at Harbourfront Theatre

Susan Aglukark is bringing the 30th anniversary tour of her seminal album This Child to Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on May 25.

Aglukark is Canada’s first Inuk artist to win a JUNO Award, as well as a Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement. She is an Officer of the Order of Canada and holds several Honourary Doctorate degrees.

Her journey as a singer-songwriter began in the early ’90s. In Aglukark’s early reflections, she discovered the platform as a space for learning, sharing, and healing. This inspired her major-label debut album, This Child (1995), which subsequently went triple platinum and sold over 300,000 copies.

Combining contemporary melodies, traditional Inuit chants, modern lyrics, and Inuit folklore, the album features “O Siem,” an anthemic call to turn away from racism and prejudice. The song hit No. 1 on the Canadian country and adult contemporary charts in 1995 and peaked at No. 3 on the pop chart.

Since then, she has written and recorded 10 albums, founded the

Kings Ceilidh

Kitchen party will feature East Coast music by local talent

Kings Playhouse is presenting a new show this summer season. Kings Ceilidh–A PEI Kitchen Party will feature some of the best East Coast music, an Island cast of musicians, fiddling, and vocals.

Created and directed by John

Arctic Rose Foundation, authored two children’s books, and has a personal memoir in the works.

Aglukark’s writing of This Child sparked a personal call to action: to get on the platform, speak up, learn, heal, and share. This has been her work for the past 30 years.

Visit harbourfronttheatre.com to purchase tickets.

Connolly, Kings Ceilidh will showcase the unique blend of party and performance that makes up a PEI kitchen party. Audiences can expect to hear Island favourites, East Coast classics and rousing fiddle tunes. The whole cast will be announced soon.

Kings Ceilidh will play at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on July 2, 8, 15, 22, and 29, and August 5, 12, 19, and 26. Find tickets and more information at kingsplayhouse.com or call 902-652-2053.

Showtunes

Singalong

Join in at Beaconsfield Heritage House in June

Showtunes Singalong with Jamie Feinberg takes place at the Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown on June 29 at 12:30 pm. Presented by Pink Pony Productions, this off-off-Broadwaystyle event invites audiences to sing along to Broadway ballads, uptunes, and more.

Visit bit.ly/427WbPG for tickets.

Dayna Pirso

Red Island Cider—May 11

Red Island Cider in Charlottetown will host touring musician Dayna Pirso on their patio on May 11 from 3–5 pm. Dayna Pirso is a multi-instrumentalist from Ontario. Their music career began with busking full-time in the subway system of Toronto and on sidewalks across Canada. Fate eventually nudged them closer to New Orleans, playing early Americana and traditional jazz. Dayna has been known to weave stories using song, puppetry, clowning, poetry, and crankie movies on both stages and sidewalks.

Red Island Cider is located at 101 Longworth Ave, Charlottetown.

Live at Trailside Music Hall

A few of the live music shows in May

Hit the Coast Album Launch

With Benny Von & Emilea May

May 2 ›› 8 pm

Celebrate the release of Spewing Junk, the debut album from Hit the Coast, with a three-act bill featuring performances by the lovely Benny Von and the handsome Emilea May. Both openers will be performing with their full bands. Spewing Junk is a collection of Hit the Coast’s past singles, plus two new, previously unreleased tracks.

Sue Foley

May 15 ›› 8 pm

The Canadian blues ingénue turned Texas axe-slinger brings over 35 years of professional experience back to the Trailside stage. Grammy nominee Sue Foley delivers her own brand of high-energy, guitar-driven Texas blues alongside her band. Foley’s seasoned rhythm section responds to her every move as she sways, rocks, and digs in with equal parts ease and intensity.

Jake Vaadeland

With Shane Pendergast

May 18 ›› 8 pm

Twenty-one-year-old Jake Vaadeland from Cut Knife, Saskatchewan, has had an impressive year as a 2025 JUNO Award nominee and made history as the youngest artist to achieve Road

Gold Certification by selling 25,000 tickets in 12 months across Canada. Along with his band, The Sturgeon River Boys, Vaadeland embarked on a global tour—solidifying his status as a rising star in the music industry. Jake strives to write and play with a focus on storytelling and messages that his audience can relate to.

Kelly McMichael

With Space Bud

May 21 ›› 8 pm

Kelly McMichael is an artist and producer based in St. John’s, NL, originally from Peterborough, ON. She is a multi-instrumentalist fluent in alternative pop/rock and has performed across North America and Europe, accompanying The Burning Hell, Tim Baker, and Sarah Harmer. McMichael’s debut independent album, Waves, had a breakthrough in 2021, garnering a spot on the Polaris Prize shortlist, three Music NL Awards, and the ECMA for Best Rock Recording of the Year. Her sophomore album, After The Sting Of It (2024), is a genreless expansion on the classic sound of her debut.

LeFunk

May 27 ›› 8 pm

Lefunk delivers high-energy, groovy performances and music releases. The band features a tight rhythm section and a four-piece vocal section. Lefunk has been nominated twice for R&B/ Soul Recording of the Year by Music PEI (2024 and 2025) for their debut EP Le Disco and their single “Reflection.”

Mo Kenney

With Sophie Noel

May 29 ›› 8 pm

On their fifth studio album, From Nowhere, Mo Kenney embraces the textures of ambiguity and the rich blur of being, failing, and becoming. As they shift through lush arrangements that

touch on dreamy folk, sparse alt-country, and warm, hazed-out lo-fi pop, everything is up for interpretation and nothing is fixed. In their lyrics, Kenney opts instead to defy definition, making room for non-linear and fragmentary sentiments that challenge their own feelings about personal growth, acknowledge the slippery and shadowy nature of memory, and build love songs that conjure the bonds of friendship just as much as they hint at romance.

Matt Minglewood Band

May 30–31 ›› 8 pm

Matt Minglewood—guitarist, pianist, singer, and songwriter—creates an inspired blend of country, blues, folk, roots, and rock. Both on record and on stage, Matt keeps the music thriving, dynamic, and full of life. With over a dozen recordings and more than 30 years of touring from Cape Breton to Vancouver, Europe, and across the United States, he has earned the respect and loyalty of thousands of devoted fans.

Skydiggers

June 7 ›› 8 pm

For over three decades, Skydiggers have been at the heart of Canada’s roots, rock and folk scene, known for crafting songs that are both timeless and deeply resonant. Rooted in a deep appreciation for storytelling and melody, their music reflects life’s highs and lows with honesty and heart.

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.

Jamie Feinberg

Two Hours Traffic

Two Hours Traffic formed at the University of Prince Edward Island in 2002. They are named after a line in the prologue to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The band was started by Liam Corcoran and Alec O’Hanley, and they added Derek Ellis and Andy MacDonald to fill out the sound. In their initial twelve-year run, they released four full-length albums and three EPs. The majority of their music was produced by fellow East Coaster, Joel Plaskett, including their 2008 Polaris Music Prize shortlisted album, Little Jabs. Two Hours Traffic’s music has been featured in the high-profile television shows The OC, One Tree Hill, The Office, and Gossip Girl.

Despite an impressive run, in 2013, Two Hours Traffic announced a farewell tour and disbanded following its completion. Cut to 2018, as the legal weed industry was heating up, they were approached by Figr to play an event at PEI Brewing Co. to help promote the brand. They hadn’t really considered this scenario, but were receptive to it. At this time, having been through a few substitutes and member swaps in the final years of the band’s initial life, they found themselves short a fourth member. Discussing the idea of playing this show, Liam, Derek and Andy settled on asking Nick Doneff if he might want to step in on guitar and play this show. Nick obliged and the band made a very successful return to the stage. This reunion sparked a craving for more amongst the band members and fans alike.

With no commitment to a record label or management team, the band managed the increased demand and inquiries as best they could. Finding themselves booked to play a few random festivals each year since their reformation, the slow trickle of activity

kept the band in a form of natural, unforced, no pressure existence. Without really consciously deciding to begin working on new songs, the songs naturally started to show up, and over the course of the last few years the members met regularly to collaborate on new music. Through this process they’ve found the fun parts again and in turn, they’ve re-established a trust in each other that feels organic, unforced, and has allowed them the artistic freedom and democratic basis for being in the position of releasing their first new music in 12 years. The new six-song EP, called I Never See You Anymore, will be released on May 23.

I Never See You Anymore was produced by bandmate and bass player, Andy MacDonald. It was recorded in various locations, including Don’t Wake Baby Studios (Greg Alsop), Fang Studios in Dartmouth NS, Mark “Lefty” Geddes’ Hope River studio, Nick Doneff’s house, and Howie’s Loft. The EP was mixed by Graham Walsh. The band has since started working with Noisemaker to help manage the dayto-day business.

In the fall of 2020, they did a small tour of East Coast cities to get a sense of touring again and to test the markets. In support of the new EP, Two Hours Traffic is off to Ontario in late May for a small tour, taking them to London, Hamilton, Toronto, and Guelph.

The first single from the EP is currently enjoying some well-deserved attention on the CBC Radio 2 Top 20, and they recently contributed a version of Joel Plaskett’s “Deny, Deny, Deny” to the brand new Plaskett tribute covers record called Songs From the Gang

Two Hours Traffic may not have intended to return, but they are back and that is reason to celebrate.

ROBERT

GEORGEOFF

Under the Spire

30th season begins in June at Historic St. Mary’s

After three decades of delivering world-class music, Under the Spire has built a legacy of exceptional musical entertainment in a stunning acoustic venue. The 30th anniversary artist lineup has just been released, and the season begins on June 20 at Historic St. Mary’s in Kensington.

The season begins with a solo show from Matt Andersen, followed by folk artists like Rose Cousins, the Ennis Sisters, and a triple bill featuring Catherine MacLellan, JP Cormier, and Dave Gunning. Classical performances include Measha Bruggergosman-Lee, Cheng2 Duo, Maritime Brass Quintet, and Philip Chiu. World music acts

include Tulua and Okavango African Orchestra. Local artists such as Inn Echo, Lawrence Maxwell, and Irish Mythen will also perform. Special shows include a Paul Simon tribute curated by Nick Doneff, and Acoustic East Coast: A String Ensemble Experience, featuring East Coast songs rearranged by Natalie Williams Calhoun and performed by the Bayfield String Quartet. Under the Spire’s full season lineup and tickets are available at underthespire.ca/2025-concert-series. For more information, phone 902-836-4933 or email music@underthespire.ca.

Souris Show Hall

Entertainment lineup announced for 2025 season

The Souris Show Hall has announced its 2025 lineup of events for the season, including four-time JUNO Award winner David Francey, PEI/Magdalen Islands trad favourites Vishtèn, Indigenous Labrador rockers Silver Wolf Band, Halifax reggae artist Jah’Mila, Mi’kmaw Cape Breton fiddler Morgan Toney, and many more.

“We’re so pleased to be able to offer such an incredible lineup of events in this part of the province,” says Ariel Sharratt who works with the Show Hall to put together their programming season. “We hope that we’ve got a little bit of something for everyone, from established favourites to artists that may be new to our audiences. I hope that the Souris Show Hall can be a place to discover great new music and support incredible Canadian talent.”

The Show Hall is reopening in May after several months of winter renovations. With funding from the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, the Province’s Rural Regional Development Program, and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the historic theatre received major upgrades to its foundation and insulation.

Judy Burke, Chair of the Board, says these improvements will help the Hall operate year-round.“We want to be able to serve our community year-round, and these upgrades to the facility are going to help us make that happen. But this is just the beginning. We have big dreams for this space, and we have a great team of volunteers

working to make them a reality.”

The Souris Show Hall will reopen on May 15 with a season kickoff concert featuring local favourites Fiddlers’ Sons, followed by Silver Wolf Band on May 24, and Dusted (Brian Borcherdt of Canadian alt-electronic legends Holy F***) with JUNO Award nominee Kim Barlow on May 31.

For the full lineup of events, tickets, and more, visit sourisshowhall.com.

Cloggeroo 2025

Annual festival changes to a new format in multiple venues

After ten years of dancing, singing, and celebrating under the big tent at West Street Park in Georgetown, PEI, Cloggeroo is shaking things up and taking over all of Three Rivers this year. That’s right—Cloggeroo is going on tour… without actually leaving town.

As a non-profit organization whose mission is to champion live music and the arts in the Three Rivers area, the festival is turning the whole community into its stage—and partnering with fantastic local venues in Eastern PEI’s largest town.

This summer, the festival will bring its infectious spirit—along with 17 topnotch musical performances—to seven

local venues over four days in August: Kings Playhouse, Copper Bottom, Bogside, the Wheelhouse, Cardigan Station, Lucky Bean, and even the floating Drifters Tiki Bar.

Old favourites are back: Saturday afternoon’s family-friendly, pay-whatyou-can events with something for everyone, and the Boggeroo Blues Tent on Sunday afternoon, featuring some of the best blues musicians in the Atlantic region.

Cloggeroo returns August 7–10. The full lineup and ticket sales are coming soon. Follow Cloggeroo on social media and visit cloggeroo.com for updates.

(top–bottom): Fiddlers’ Sons; Silver Wolf Band; Dusted (left) & Kim Barlow

Matt Andersen (left) and Irish Mythen perform in June

LIVE MUSIC

bars, lounges, cafés...

Albert & Crown Pub

Bruce & Robert Jones (May 2 @6 pm); Joey Doucette (8/15/22/29 @8 pm); DanaLee & Vanessa (9 @6 pm); Very Best of Up West with Sandra Jones (10 @8 pm); Crystal Paynter & Cory Gallant (16 @7 pm); Blair Gaudet (23 @6 pm); Mark & Spencer Phillips (24 @7 pm). 480 Main St, Alberton.

Baba’s Lounge

Tuesdays (8 pm) and Fridays & Saturdays (10 pm *unless noted): Eliza Niemi, Advance Base Doug Hoyer (May 2) Stone House Sticky Honey & Zebedee (3); Riptyde (9); Danny Gallant Band (10 @5 pm); 2010 Drag Event with B.I.L.F (10); Lung Dazey Babyland (13); Homestead Elite Trevor, Trevor Lowell Clements & the Barn Cat Poetry Beat (16); D-Rok & Jezza San Miguel, Tony Haze (17); John Rehder (20); Chris Wolf Dayglow Abortions, Devil’s Punchbowl (23); Javier & Diego (24); Elyse Aeryn (30); Plain Dirty Blues (31 @5 pm); DJ Hype Retro Night (31). 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

Fiesta Mayo with Dj Spi (May 10); Graduation Pop Up with Selecta Chevron (23). Latin Graduation - Edition 2 with DJ Spi (24). 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): Stephen Szwarc (May 2); Brian Dunn (3); Taylor Johnson (9); Nathan Carragher (10); Rodney Perry (16); Adam MacGregor (17); John Allaire (23); Billy White (24); Ethan MacPhee (30); Steve Zaat (31). 11 Brook St, Montague.

Brothers 2

Thursdays (7–9 pm) & Fridays (7–10 pm): Chris Ahern (May 1/9); Nick Hann (2); Logan Maddix (8); Jordan Cameron (15): Karen & Mike (16); Dan Doiron (22); Todd & Chris (23); Ryan Merry (29); Danny Drouin (30). 618 Water St, Summerside.

Charlottetown Legion

Saturdays (9:30 pm–12:30 am): Roundabout (May 03); Hache (10); Rustlers (17); No Turmoil (24); Kim Albert (31). All are welcome. 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.

Copper Bottom Brewing

Sunday Blues Jam with Dan Doiron and guests on Sundays (2–5 pm *except May 11). Old Man Luedecke (3 @7:30 pm, *ticketed); Mother’s Day Gospel Brunch with The Brunch Prophets (11 @1 pm, ticketed); Echoes: A Night Of Chris Stapleton (31 @7:30 pm, *ticketed). 567 Main St, Montague.

Craft Beer Corner

Live DJ on Saturdays (10 pm). 156 Great George St, Charlottetown.

FiN Folk Food

Fridays (5–7 pm): Shane Pendergast (May 2/9); Nathan Carragher (6/23/30); Shane Pendergast (11 *Sunday). 106 Beach Rd, Grand Tracadie.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market

Fridays (4:30–6:30 pm) & Saturdays (5–7 pm): Steve Zaat (May 02); Carter MacLellan (3); Mark & Spencer Phillips (9); Mike Stratton (10); Dan Doiron (16); Tiantian Liu & Vivian (17); Luka Hall (23); Nathan Carragher (24); David Woodside (30); Martin Watson (31). 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.

Gahan House

Fridays & Saturdays (8–10 pm). 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

Harmony House Lounge

Live in the Lounge with Brian Dunn on May 8 (6:30–8:30 pm). 19814 Rte 2, Hunter River.

Kettle Black: Stratford

Open Mic with Robert McMillan on Sundays (2–4 pm). 17 Glen Stewart Dr, Stratford.

Lone Oak at Fox Meadow

Fridays & Saturdays (6–8 pm): John McLaren (May 2); Lawrence Maxwell (3/24); Mike Stratton (9/30); Fraser McCallum (10); Brad Milligan (16); Ethan MacPhee (23). 167 Kinlock Rd, Stratford.

Lone Oak Brew Pub

Thursdays (6–8 pm): Craig Fair (May 1/15/22/29); Mike Stratton (8). 15 Milky Way, Charlottetown.

Lone Oak Brewing Co

Saturdays (6–8 pm): Nathan Carragher (May 3); Lawrence Maxwell (10); Dan Doiron (17); TBD (24); Kev MacPhee (31). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.

Marc’s Lounge

Fridays & Saturdays (9–11 pm): Mike Stratton (May 2); Bruce Rooney & Curtis Klein (3/16); Mat Hannah (10); Adam MacGregor (23); David Woodside (31). 125 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

North Rustico Lions Club

Saturdays (8–11 pm). 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

Adam MacGregor & Liam Kearney (May

2 @7 pm); Woodpeckers (2 @11 pm); Tip ‘Er Back (3 @1:30 pm); Ella Campbell (3

@6 pm); Dean James Band @10 pm); Carter MacLellan (9 @6 pm); Shipwrecks (9 @10 pm); Gordon Butler (16 @6 pm); Raglan Road (16/17 @10 pm); Luka Hall (17 @6 pm); Dan Doiron (23 @6 pm); Roundabout (23 @10 pm); Brian Dunn (24/30 @6 pm); Main Street Bullies (24 @10 pm); MacBeth (30 @10 pm); Neon Country (30 @10 pm). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

PEI Brewing Company

Acoustic Fridays (4–7 pm): Ethan MacPhee (May 2); Nathan Carragher (9); Curtis Reginald (16); Brian Dunn (23); Stephen Szwarc (30). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.

PonyBoat

DJ Gufaah & DJ Mando on Fridays and Saturdays (11 pm). 157 Kent St, Charlottetown.

RCAF Wing Summerside

Live music on Saturdays (9 pm). Karaoke on Sundays (7–10 pm). 329 North Market St, Summerside.

Salvadore Dalí Café

Brunch Matinee with Ben Aitken & Emma Clark on May 25 (2–4 pm). 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Slaymaker & Nichols

Nick Gauthier on Fridays & Sundays (2–5 pm). 82 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown.

Summerside Legion

Back in Tyme (Apr 5/12/26 @2 pm). Karaoke on Thursdays (7 pm) with Lesa Coughlin. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.

Upstreet Craft Brewing

Fridays (7:30–8:30 pm *unless noted): Just Cuz (May 2); Takeda Takeda (9); Jesse MacCormac (16); Aaron Stevenson (30). Trevor Lowell Clements & the Barn Cat Poetry Beat with Groove Court (23 @7:30 pm *ticketed); (24 @7 pm *Sat *ticketed). 41 Allen St, Charlottetown

Village Green Brewery

Karaoke on May 10 (9–11 pm) with Christina MacLean. 30 Church St, Cornwall.

Bonnie Raitt

tribute

Kelley Mooney and Route 225 at Trailside Music Hall—May 3

A Tribute to Bonnie Raitt with Kelley Mooney and Route 225 will be on stage at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on May 3 at 8 pm. Kelley Mooney and PEI’s Route 225—featuring Deryl Gallant, Todd MacLean, Adam Gaudet, and Roland Beaulieu—take a deep dive into the catalogue of this living legend. Visit trailside.ca for tickets.

BUZZIFIEDS

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.

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

MUSIC

Sommo Fest: Sandbar Stage

Whitecap Entertainment has announced the full Sandbar Stage lineup. A fan favourite at Sommo Festival, the Sandbar Stage is where Canadian talent takes centre stage alongside standout global artists. Saturday’s Sandbar Stage will be headlined by singer-songwriter Cameron Whitcomb. Throughout the evening, he’ll be joined by five-time JUNO Award nominee Jamie Fine, GOLD-certified Canadian alt-pop band Valley, East Coast native Rich Aucoin, Toronto altrockers Goodnight Sunrise, and PEI’s own indie rock band Gizmo. Sunday’s lineup includes indie-folk artist Hunter Metts; King Cruff, an emerging hiphop artist and grandson of Bob Marley; Toronto rock’n’roll trio Ichi-Bons; singersongwriter Charlie Houston; Ontario TikTok sensation and Toronto Star’s “next big voice,” Billianne; and Nova Scotia punk-rock band Customer Service. Info: sommofest.com

Together We Drum with Willie Poll

Kids aged 6–12 can join local author Willie Poll for a morning of fun and games at the Charlottetown Library on May 2 at 10 am. Learn about Indigenous traditions, as well as a traditional drumming song. 97 Queen St, Charlottetown.

Informal jam session

The next jam sessions for adults at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) will be held on May 12 and 26 at 6:30 pm. Bring an instrument or borrow one from the library and join other musicians for an informal evening of playing music.

Drone Day 2025

Sound Series Collective presents Drone Day 2025, an annual celebration of drone music, community, and experimental sounds. Feel the vibrations on May 22 from 1–4 pm at the Kirk of St James, 35 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown. Info: soundseries@warpmail.net

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; Nature-themed trivia on May 7 (6–8 pm). RSVP by email to naturepei@gmail.com. 567 Main St, Montague.

The Factory

Entertainment Trivia Thursdays (7 pm) with Darcy Campbell; Fridays (8 pm) with Doc. 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.

Hopyard

Wednesdays (8 pm) with Hank. 151 Kent St, Charlottetown.

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.

Lone Oak at Fox Meadow 7 pm) with Kirk MacKinnon. 167 Kinlock Rd, Stratford.

North Rustico Lions Club 7:30 pm) with Barry Parsons. 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico.

Olde Dublin Pub

Trivia & Tunes on Thursdays (7:30 pm) with Cone. 131 Sydney St, Charlottetown.

The Old Triangle

Saturdays (2 pm) with Dave Connolly. Register by calling 902-892-5200. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.

Village Green Brewery 7 pm) with Bryan Carver. 30 Church St, Cornwall.

Upstreet Craft Brewing

Drag Trivia on May 8 & 22 (7 pm). 41 Allen St, Charlottetown

GOOD TIMES SERVED DAILY

Wednesdays � Billiards 8 Ball Lives Tournament & Twisted Trivia

Thursdays � Student Night / Fridays & Saturdays � DJ Night

Saturdays � Billiards Round Robin / Sundays � Industry Night + Pop Princess Dance Party � May 10th

food