October 2026 Brenda Whiteway, Encroachment (detail from tryptich) EVERY WEEKEND NOV 20 - DEC 20 VICTORIA ROW
NOV 20 - JAN 1 CHARLOTTETOWN
MORE INFO AT WWW.CHARLOTTETOWNCHRISTMASFESTIVAL.COM
NOV 27-29 QUEEN STREET
Page 2 The BUZZ October 2026
Fringe returns Seven original productions—Oct 7 to 11
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Home of the renowned FireWorks Feast, a nightly celebration of live-fire cooking, Culinary Farm ingredients, our own foraging, and the rich flavours of Prince Edward Island, all enjoyed from our five-star seaside sanctuary.
Rose-Ingrid Benjamin, White as Snow (left) and Devin Bateson, Men Love Horsies: The Musical
Chef Michael Smith and Chastity Smith, Proprietors, invite you to explore our fivestar country inn, Culinary Farm, herb gardens, mushroom patch, Art Forest & Woodland Trails, and thoughtfully designed luxury guest rooms.
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From October 7–11, the Island Fringe Festival (IFF) returns to downtown Charlottetown with independent performance featuring seven original productions from Prince Edward Island, Ontario, and New York City. IFF is PEI’s annual celebration of independent theatre and performance, dedicated to artistic freedom, accessibility, creative risk-taking, and giving artists a place to share original work. This year’s festival brings together theatre, comedy, music, storytelling, clowning, and experimentation. Before Fleabag became an international television phenomenon, it was a one-woman show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Before Kim’s Convenience became a television series, it was a play developed through Toronto’s Fringe circuit. Fringe festivals give audiences the opportunity to experience original work at the beginning of its journey. What if the next big thing starts at the Island Fringe Festival? At IFF, audiences experience original work in unconventional spaces and connect directly with artists. This year, IFF takes over Beaconsfield’s Carriage House, the This Town is Small gallery, an office in the Y-Lofts, and the Black Cultural Society inside the Atlantic
Technology Centre. The 2026 lineup features An American (not) in Paris from New York City, NY; Men Love Horsies: The Musical from Hamilton, ON; Oh, the Man You’ve Become from Charlottetown, PE; Passing the Cold in Montreal from Mississauga, ON; This Is Me! from York, PE; When There’s Nothing Left to Say from Stratford, PE; and White as Snow from Toronto, ON. The festival opens at The Arts Guild on October 7 with Opening Night, where this year’s performers have five minutes to introduce their shows to audiences. They might perform a scene, pitch their show, or demonstrate a skill. The evening also includes games, audience participation, and prizes. Admission is by donation. Individual show tickets and all-access passes (all seven shows for the price of six) are available, with 100 per cent of the ticket price going directly to the artists. Visit islandfringe.com for the complete schedule and tickets. For updates, follow the Island Fringe Festival on social media. In addition to its lineup of performances, the festival features Fringe After Dark events and more. See page 9 of this issue of The Buzz for more details.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 3
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FRIDAY & SATURDAY EVENINGS | 10:00PM - 1:00AM
OCTOBER 02 Brad Milligan 03 Greg Bungay
23 Billy White 24 Wayne Gallant
09 Barry O'Brien 10 Nathan Carragher
30 Sasha Bruce 31 Steve Zaat
16 Richie Bulger Duo 17 Mike & Karen Penton
Reservations: 902.620.4264 Visit Us Online: redshores.ca
Know Your Limit. Play Within It.
Page 4 The BUZZ October 2026
Profile: Jay Whitehead by Julie Bull Where food & art meet.
Creative homecoming
of being creative. Raised Mormon, Jay finished high school and embarked on a two-year mission to France. “I was not free to be out and open about my queerness in those earlier years of my life. Like many queer people growing up in the 70s and 80s, I was taught to feel great shame about who I was.” Now an award-winning playwright, Jay brings humour, drama, and personal connection to the stage. “Shame has become a catalyst for my creativity,” he shares. “Creating pieces like 333: The Toronto Bathhouse Raids feels like a homecoming in many ways after being silenced and then having anxiety rob me of being on stage for a long time.”
82 Great George Street 902-370-2474 thegallerypei.ca
333: The Toronto Bathhouse Raids toured the Maritimes this summer to sold-out audiences. “I started writing the first scene in 2004 and then it sat in a box for many years. I dug it out during the pandemic, and it was then that I started working on it in earnest.”
THE BUZZ
Jay was the writer, producer, and an actor in 333. In the play, Jay and others have moments of full nudity on stage. “Being naked on stage is both a literal and metaphorical way to purge shame. It has been profoundly healing.”
Jay Whitehead was one of the many folks who made their way to PEI during COVID. The collective stress of the pandemic and the personal loss that he was facing during that time was the catalyst for moving across the country. “I have always been drawn to PEI, and I decided to make the move east when I was at that changing point in my life.” Over the years, Jay has worked in various areas, including as a flight attendant and drama teacher. Now the Community and Theatre Engagement Manager at The Arts Guild, Jay is immersed in creativity on a regular basis. He teaches others how to act and he is instrumental in the ongoing development of the Arts Guild Collective. Along with his professional practice, Jay is an established writer, actor, and producer. “I love the smallness here. My art and work are about community, and the size of the Island makes community building possible in
ways that are not as readily accessible in bigger cities.” Originally from Alberta, Jay has always had an interest in and appreciation for the performing arts, though his trajectory to get here has included many winding roads. “Growing up in Alberta, there was not really a sense of belonging to Canada. I wanted to feel more like I was part of the fabric of this country which has happened since moving to PEI.” This connectedness has been part of the impetus for Jay’s involvement in creating Queerly Canadian: A Drag Cabaret. “In today’s political and cultural climate, Canadians are rallying together in ways I haven’t seen before in my lifetime. Queerly Canadian is a love letter to the country we grew up in.” Though Jay loved connecting with their imagination through the creative arts as a child, it never occurred to them that they could make a career out
“There is a sense of reverence that happens when I am on stage. The nervous and anxious parts of me are present for the first few moments and then I find myself engrossed in the experience.” Jay immerses himself in the performing arts, on both the production and consumer side. They love experiencing live performance as an audience member breathing the same air and experiencing a moment. “I’ve always connected with the underdog, and I especially love attending shows and art projects by the weirdos and the misfits.” As a writer and actor, Jay appreciates the variety of ways he engages in art. “I’m so glad I do not have to choose one or the other. I love writing and acting for different reasons and in different seasons.” Jay’s creative expression knows no bounds, and they also have a drag persona called Didi d’Edada. “I am a big fan of the dra-magic and Didi helps me bring that to life.” “I used to think that entertainment had to be fun and only fun. Now I see that there is room for so much more: education, advocacy, community building, and healing through entertainment.” Jay’s passion for and commitment to the arts, specifically for queer creatives, provides endless opportunities for queer stories to be amplified and celebrated on stage. “As a writer, actor, and producer, I am a vessel for these stories to be told, and it is an honour to share the stage and audiences with others sharing their stories too.”
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 5
Islander Show-Down
HOLIDAY PARTIES
IT’S TIME TO BOOK YOUR
Holiday Party!
Islander Show-Down, a new Bell Fibe TV1 comedy, will hold a live studio taping on November 7 at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown. Islanders are invited to be part of the audience. The new hybrid comedy explores the hidden side of game shows. Real PEI teams compete on stage as a dysfunctional backstage crew fights to keep everything from falling apart. A live audience of 300 Islanders will add to the energy, laughter, and spontaneous fun of this proudly PEIthemed production. The series stars Canadian comedic actor Peter Keleghan. Born in Montreal and based in Toronto, Keleghan has built a celebrated career spanning television, film, theatre, and live comedy. His national profile brings added visibility and credibility to the production. He is best known for his roles as Alan Roy in Made in Canada (Gemini Award winner), Jim Walcott in The Newsroom (Gemini Award winner), Ranger Gord in The Red Green Show, Ben Bellow in 18 to Life, and Terrence Meyers in Murdoch Mysteries. He has also appeared in Seinfeld, Cheers, Murphy Brown, General Hospital, and films including The Grand Seduction (2013). Islander Show-Down features two Island teams competing to win money for charity through high-energy competition, Island-specific poll questions,
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Live studio taping on PEI
Actor Peter Keleghan
and spontaneous humour. Backstage, a scripted parody follows Crystal the Stage Manager, Rick the Production Assistant, and the show’s charismatic host Jonathan (played by Keleghan), creating a hilarious contrast between polished on-camera moments and chaotic behind-the-scenes antics. Islander Show-Down is produced by PEI’s award-winning visual storyteller Berni Wood (Reel Media) and written and directed by award-winning creators Diane Barnes (T. P. Productions Inc. – PEI) and David Gordon Francis (T. P. Productions Inc.). The series showcases PEI’s unique culture, humour, and creative talent for Bell TV audiences. Islanders are also invited to take part in the pre-show question poll, online at shorturl.at/aRvDR. This input will help shape the conversation before the live taping. The taping runs from 7–10 pm, and the audience is a big part of the show. For tickets, visit shorturl.at/GcSQa
GREAT VENUES MAKE GREAT PARTIES.
For more information, or to book your party, contact:
Where It’s Too Deep To See
BRUNCH Saturday & Sunday 10am - 1pm
Staged reading at The Arts Guild—Oct 13
Reserve online or call (902)894-4800 SUBMITTED
A staged reading of Where It’s Too Deep To See will take place at The Arts Guild in Charlottetown on October 13 at 7 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm. After a murder at sea, three downand-out lobster fishers and a corrupt DFO agent strike a deal with far-reaching consequences. Where It’s Too Deep To See explores the dark side of the world’s most dangerous job. Here, corruption feeds a growing black market, and vigilante justice is settled on the waves far away from the eyes of authorities and nosy witnesses. This new work is loosely inspired by the burning of the Sipekne’katik First Nation’s lobster pound in Middle
KRISTEN JAY, MANAGER, MARKETING & SALES P: 9 02 6 29 116 7 kjay@con fed erat ion cen t re.com
(L–R): Cam MacDonald, John MacCormac, Adi Vella, and Benton Hartley
West Pubnico, Nova Scotia. This special theatrical reading will be performed by Benton Hartley, Cam MacDonald, John MacCormac, and Adi Vella. A one-act version of this play, written by Kris Williams, was performed at the 2025 Island Fringe Festival. Admission is by donation.
thepilothouse thepilothousePE 70 Grafton Street
Page 6 The BUZZ October 2026
Murder at the Haviland The Body & the Belvedere returns—Oct 15, 17 & 18
Into the Radiant Garden of the Heart
An Art & Mindfulness Experience
The Body & the Belvedere returns to historic Haviland House on October 15, 17 and 18, inviting audiences to step back in time to Charlottetown in 1872 for an evening of mystery, intrigue, and history. The fictional murder mystery unfolds during a grand ball attended by some of Charlottetown’s most prominent citizens. When a body is discovered, suspicion falls on a colourful cast of characters—an ambitious
Mysteries of the Keyhole House A blend of illusion, storytelling, mentalism, and dance—Oct 30
What to Expect
Enjoy a free guided journey through art and into your inner world, beginning with a short, gentle meditation.
Harbourfront Theatre will welcome Mysteries of the Keyhole House by Outerbridge Magic—the performing duo of Ted and Marion Outerbridge— bringing their viral true ghost story to Summerside on October 30. When the master illusionists bought a historic, rumoured-to-be-haunted
architect, a builder with secrets, a railway magnate facing scandal, and a sea captain who has caught the eye of the remarkable Esther Lowden. The question is not simply “whodunit?” The question is whether Lowden can solve the mystery—and will the audience be able to solve it before she does. Set in one of PEI’s most beautiful heritage homes, the immersive experience begins at 5 pm with a cocktail hour featuring charcuterie in the Bar & Lounge. Guests can also explore the historic house on a tour led by a host in period costume before the performance begins at 7 pm. Admission includes charcuterie, with oysters available for purchase. Tickets aree available at havilandclub. com/tickets.
Victorian home, they turned their strange discoveries into a theatrical production. As they unearthed a trove of historic artifacts, secret nooks, and whispers of a friendly resident ghost inside their “Keyhole House,” they began sharing their findings online. The tale grew into a social media phenomenon with over 30 million views. Now, that digital story comes to life on stage in a production that blends illusion, theatrical storytelling, mentalism, and dance. This family-friendly adventure is recommended for ages six and up. Showtime is 7:30 pm. Visit harbourfronttheatre.com for tickets.
Who is it for
Everyone is welcome. No knowledge of art or meditation is needed. Upcoming Sessions
OCT 4 & 18 • NOV 1 3:00–4:30 PM at 2741 Heatherdale Rd, Montague GEBIS
For Inquiry
art@gebis.org 902-330-1169
Start Anywhere Instructor Benton Hartley will lead the workshop Start Anywhere: Beginning the Creative Process at 6 pm on October 26 at The Arts Guild in Charlottetown. The one-night session to kickstart the creative process will have an emphasis on generating original material for the stage. Participants will learn practical and experiential ways they
can take what’s in their heads (and even discover what they don’t know is in their heads) and begin the process of making them tangible for the stage. Hartley is a PEI-based playwright, actor, producer, director, and improviser who attended and graduated from George Brown Theatre School and has been self-producing through his company Desert Island Theatre ever since. Registration is at theguildpei.com.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 7
Couples Clownselling
James Unqualified therapy for comedians and their partners—Oct 18 Mullinger
Couples Clownselling, the show where stand-up comedians and their partners get “therapized”—by no one with a license—is making its Charlottetown debut on October 18 at The Comedy Cave in The Factory. It’s an evening of domestic blunders, bloopers, and baggage as professional stand-up comedians and their partners take the stage to air out their dirty laundry, and receive advice from the most (un)qualified, fully (not fully at all) licensed, (non)professionals. Audience members will have the
opportunity to submit anonymous questions for the couples before the show, and witness the drama unfold. Couples Clownselling has been featured on CBC, Just For Laughs Vancouver, and The Georgia Straight, and has showcased Canadian comedians, including several JUNO Award winners. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with the show starting at 6 pm. Only beverage service will be available during the show. Tickets are available at eventbrite.ca.
@fter eight
Popalopalots
The Arts Guild—Oct 23
The Arts Guild—Oct 24
The loosely contained comedy gameshow @fter eight returns to The Arts Guild in Charlottetown on October 23 at 8:07 pm. Hosted by Andrea Avery, @fter eight throws three comics into a series of increasingly chaotic challenges in pursuit of a prize no one really wants and the honour of being named Supreme Funny. Only one survives with bragging rights intact. This is a 19+ event. Visit theguildpei.com for tickets.
Popalopalots will bring their live improv comedy show to The Arts Guild in Charlottetown on October 24 at 8 pm. The show features unscripted comedy, with the performers using audience suggestions to create characters, scenes, and unexpected twists on the spot. With no safety net, the Pops bring questionable decisions and plenty of laughs to the stage. This is a 19+ event. Admission is by cash only at the door.
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Victoria Playhouse—Oct 3
James Mullinger brings his stand-up comedy to the Victoria Playhouse in Victoria on October 3 at 7:30 pm. Before moving to New Brunswick in 2014, Mullinger worked as a comedian and Comedy Editor for GQ magazine in the UK. Since then, he has performed shows across the country, appeared on CBC’s The Debaters and in movies and television shows, and performed at festivals, award shows and stand-up specials. victoriaplayhouse.com
Please Laugh! Interactive improv comedy at The Arts Guild—Oct 29 Please Laugh! A Comedy Show will take place at The Arts Guild in Charlottetown on October 29 at 8 pm. The interactive improv comedy show will feature games and audience participation with four comedians: Jesse Boutin, Liv Howlett, Shawn Aucoin and Andrea Avery. Boutin, creator of the original Please Laugh open mic show, will headline the event, with Howlett serving as host. They will be joined by Aucoin and Avery, creator and host of @fter eight. theguildpei.com
Special Fall Menu Weekends
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Halloween Burlesque
Review by Sean McQuaid
Busted Coupling The Wonder of it All Victoria Playhouse, Victoria August 23, 2026
Performance and after party at The Arts Guild—Oct 30
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Page 8 The BUZZ October 2026
Charlottetown Burlesque returns to The Arts Guild in Charlottetown on October 30 at 9 pm for a Burlesque Halloween party. An after party will follow the evening of live music and seductive dance. Costumes are encouraged. This is a 19+ event. For tickets visit theguildpei.com.
Ocean Kin Poetic shadow show at The Arts Guild—Oct 2 & 3 In partnership with The River Clyde Sharing the Field, The Arts Guild in Charlottetown will present Ocean Kin on October 2 and 3 at 8 pm. Inspired by the ecology of the sea otter, the 45-minute poetic shadow show explores one’s relationship to body and self. Three performers use puppets, sculptural props, projected illustrations, and a loose narrative through words and an ethereal soundscape to bring the performance to life. For tickets, visit theguildpei.com.
Rum Running Murders Dinner Theatre at Red Shores in Charlottetown—Oct 16 Eddie May Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Rum Running Murders: A Shot in the Dark at Red Shores Racetrack & Casino in Charlottetown on October 16 at 7 pm. Guests can immerse themselves in an evening of murder and mystery, paired with a meal. This is a 19+ event. For tickets, visit redshores.ca or call 902-620-4264.
Good gosh, I’ve missed the Victoria Playhouse. A sturdy staple of the Island theatre scene for decades, the beloved landmark mostly stopped staging plays a few years back. That’s part of a larger PEI trend, alas—there just aren’t many robust professional theatre seasons outside Charlottetown now apart from North Rustico’s indispensable Watermark Theatre—but Victoria’s diminished theatrical presence might be the unkindest cut of all. Venues like Victoria still occasionally host theatrical productions, though, typically compact vagabond shows staged by outside producers; and a play that’s popped up at several small PEI venues in recent years is The Wonder of it All, a romantic comedy written by Canadian stage and screen veteran Mark Weatherley. It’s a charming two-hander starring Weatherley and his wife, PEI-born Canadian theatre mainstay Monique Lund, and Victoria hosted the show for seven dates this August. My head was in a weird place for this one. The reunited-and-it-feelsso-good vibes of visiting picturesque Victoria-by-the-Sea for some summer theatre had me feeling jazzed on an emotional level; but on a physical level, some intense discomfort (later diagnosed as an infected tooth) made me more subdued than usual. That I laughed through the pain quite a few times regardless speaks well of the show’s comedic potency, even if my aching jaw regretted those chortles during the drive home. Debuting as a one-act play at the Here For Now Festival in Stratford, Ontario in 2021, The Wonder of it All was expanded into a two-act version premiering at Theatre Orangeville in 2025. It’s the tale of Kingsley and Charmaine (played by Weatherley and Lund), married for 25 years but increasingly estranged as assorted major and minor grievances, irritants and obstacles slowly drive an icily bitter wedge between them. When oleaginous old boyfriend Byron (also Weatherley) reconnects with Charmaine, she starts contemplating infidelity. Can an exhausted, discouraged Kingsley win back her affections… and does he even want that anymore? Is either spouse willing or able to bridge the long-growing divide between them? Nosy neighbour Mrs. Nesbitt— played by Lund, who also does triple duty as eccentric workplace character
Victoria Playhouse
Thor—meddles in the family drama and is even accidentally helpful a time or two. Lund and Weatherley switch smoothly back and forth between their assorted roles with ease and have a well-honed rapport with each other and with their audience—you can tell they’ve been doing this play for a while now, and they’ve got their comic timing down to a science on some of the laugh lines. The supporting characters are broad, thinly sketched types, but they serve their assorted narrative purposes and land a few laughs along the way. The main characters are more interesting—richly detailed, distinct and very different personalities, both believable, both sympathetic to varying degrees. Charmaine has a smidgen more selfishly superior entitlement, an attitude Kingsley feeds since he sees her as out of his league—smarter, prettier, more successful; but he brings their relationship humour and heart, and Charmaine isn’t totally immune to his more intangible charms. Staging is simple with minimal props and furniture, and all of the action takes place in front of a vividly colourful floral painting by Mark Uhre, which gels well with a script full of gardening—both literal (it’s Kingsley’s new hobby) and metaphorical (in terms of talk about how marriages, like gardens, need care and attention to thrive). Kingsley’s older hobby is the ukulele, and while Weatherley is no Judy Marshak (a.k.a. “Canada’s First Lady of the Ukulele”), he’s good enough to add some eccentric musical comic relief that later turns sweetly sentimental. He and Lund are also fine physical comedians who keep their scenes visually engaging, not just talking heads. It helps that they have a smart, thoughtful script that’s equal parts funny and heartfelt. In a program for an earlier production of this show, Weatherley said of love: “…that exhilarating and frustrating Aladdin’s cave of emotional agglomerations is the greatest wonder of all.” Judging by all the tears and laughter I saw in Victoria, his audience seems to agree.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 9
Fringe After Dark Festival extras at The Arts Guild—Oct 7 to 11 In addition to its lineup of performances, the Island Fringe Festival, taking place October 7–11 at unconventional venues across downtown Charlottetown, will feature a series of events at the Black Box Theatre at The Arts Guild. The festival kicks off October 7 at 7:30 pm with the Island Fringe Festival Kick-Off Launch Party where this year’s performers will have five minutes each to introduce their shows. They might perform a scene, pitch their show, demonstrate a skill, or other creative presentation. The evening also includes games, audience participation, and prizes. The Fringe After Dark series begins October 8 at 9 pm with Trivia hosted by PEI’s Katie Perry. The evening will feature trivia, team competition, and more. Participants can attend individually or as a team. On October 9 at 9 pm, PEI comedian Andrea Avery will host @fter nine, an audience-driven comedy game show featuring improv challenges, unusual questions and interactive tasks. Audience members will help determine the winner. The Good Ol’ Variety Show takes
place October 10 at 9 pm. The openmic-style event welcomes a range of performances, including magic, burlesque, music, juggling, drag, dance, comedy, and more. Those interested in performing can sign up in advance or upon arrival. The festival concludes October 11 at 8 pm with the Island Fringe Festival Awards and Closing Party. Following more than 25 performances over four jam-packed days, the evening will recognize the performers, volunteers and staff who contributed to the 2026 festival. The Fringe Awards will celebrate the talent, creativity and dedication of those involved in bringing this year’s festival to life. The event will also provide an opportunity for festival participants and audiences to gather and mark the conclusion of the festival. Fringe After Dark events are for ages 19 and older. The opening and closing parties, along with all Fringe After Dark events, are free to attend, with donations to Island Fringe appreciated. Visit islandfringe.com for the complete Festival schedule, tickets, and more. For updates, follow the Island Fringe Festival on social media.
VOTE FOR CHANGE ON NOVEMBER 2ND ADVANCE POLLS OPEN OCT 24, 26 & 30
for Mayor CHANGE MEANS: Making room for HOMES and BUSINESSES on revitalized corridors TRANSPARENT & ETHICAL government BETTER TRANSPORTATION options GETTING PREPARED for extreme weather
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Become a Municipal Candidate Your community needs local leaders. Contact your municipality to learn about candidate requirements and submit your nomination papers before the deadline.
Nominations Open October 7-16 Be Ready for Municipal Election Day
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Learn about the candidates, know where to vote, and be ready to cast your ballot.
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Page 10 The BUZZ October 2026
galleries, museums...
Breadalbane Gallery
Rabbit Holes and Bunny Trails by Denise Livingstone will open in the Annex gallery with a reception from 3–5 pm on October 10. The work of gallery artists will be featured in the main gallery, including Leo (Liu, Xin), Joan Sutton, Becky Allain, Silver Frith, Marianne Janowicz, Zoe Novaczek, Haley Lewis, Lyneth Sausa, Arjun Thappa, Patrick Macdonald, Chris Mollins, Nancy Brown, Rick MacDonald, Will Baker, Lisa Theriault, Laura Bain, Sabine Nuesch, Vian Emery, Lily-Ann Hein, Zora Wendt, Carla DiGiorgio, and Erin Veitch. Artists interested in exhibiting can submit photos of their work to breadalbane. gallery@gmail.com. Open Tuesday from 12–3:30 pm, Thursday from 3–8 pm, and Friday from 9 am–12:30 pm. 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane.
Soft Internet Theory opens October 3 and continues until January 24. Channelling continues until January 3. Deployment: Emmanuelle Léonard and Sandeep Johal: To Be Something More (and More) both continue until January 10. 130 Queen St, Charlottetown. confederationcentre. com/artgallery
Confederation Court Mall
The City of Charlottetown and the PEI Regiment Museum pop-up exhibition, A History of Victoria Park in Photos, continues until October 15. Located on the first floor, the exhibition is open for viewing during mall hours. 134 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Cornwall Library Art Gallery
Funny Papers by Liam McKenna continues until October 23. It features a selection of illustrations and gag cartoons that are absurd, wry, fantastic, and thoughtful. Illusions, Escapism and Mystery opens with a meet-the-artists reception on October 27 at 7 pm. Each artist has one piece of art in this group show, which
runs until November 27. For information about exhibiting in the gallery, contact the library at 902-629-8415. 15 Mercedes Dr., Town Hall, Cornwall.
Eptek Art & Culture Centre
Summerside Art Club’s exhibition, In the Kitchen, opens October 8. A free meet-theartists event will take place on October 18 from 1–3 pm. All are welcome. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. peimuseum.ca
Callbecks mural preserved Chantal Dupuis reproduces artwork by Arno Freitag
The Gallery – Coffee House & Bistro The fall art rotation exhibitions include Layers of Love by Lisa Chandler and Peter Rukavina, and wildlife photography by Stewart MacLean. Both are on view until November 30. A permanent exhibition featuring work by Patrick Guindon, Sita MacMillan, and Ashleigh Tremere is on view in the nook space. Open daily, 8 am–5 pm. 82 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Great Wisdom Buddhist Institute
The immersive exhibition Inside the Journey of a Buddhist Nun is on display through 2027. Exhibition and guided tour time slots are available Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am–4 pm. Discover how Buddhist nuns dedicate their lives to study, meditation, compassion, and the preservation of the ancient wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism through the translation of centuries-old texts with engaging displays, stories, and interactive experiences. To choose a time slot, search “Inside the Journey of a Buddhist Nun” at eventbrite.ca. 805 Brudenell Pt Rd, Montague.
Harbourfront Theatre
Ellen Martin’s solo exhibition, Scotland, My Ancestral Home, will open on October 4 from 2–4 pm. All are welcome. It will be on view until November. 124 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
Summerside Rotary Library
More than 100 artworks by local artists, including original paintings, photography, handmade knits, mosaics, digital art, and more, adorn the library walls across three wheelchair-accessible levels, with an elevator for easy access. This ongoing exhibition continues year-round. 57 Central St, Summerside.
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Confederation Centre Art Gallery
Chantal Dupuis and Arno Freitag in front of the newly restored mural
In 1999, Callbecks Limited, once the largest country store on Prince Edward Island, commissioned Island artist Arno Freitag to create a mural depicting the early days of the business in Bedeque. After Callbecks relocated to Summerside, the mural was removed from the exterior of the store and placed on an exterior garage wall at the Callbeck homestead, where it has been admired by people passing through the village. Twenty-seven years later, the effects of exposure to the elements had begun to show on Freitag’s artwork. After consulting with Freitag, the Callbeck family commissioned Island artist Chantal Dupuis to reproduce the mural in the summer of 2026. Under Freitag’s mentorship, Dupuis carefully reproduced the mural over the course of the summer. On September 11, Freitag and Dupuis signed their names on the restored mural before protective coats were applied to preserve the artwork for years to come. The mural can be viewed at the Callbeck homestead, located at 934 Callbeck Street in Central Bedeque.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 11
Sharing the Field
Fix Your Plate by Tara Reeves
Rooted in flavour
These vegetables aren’t boring, we’ve just been cooking them like they are. A parsnip roasted hot and fast turns almost candy sweet at the edges. A turnip loses its harsh bite and gets a peppery, almost mustardy depth. Celeriac, once you get past the ugly exterior, tastes like the best parts of celery and potato had a baby. And beets, roasted whole in their skins instead of boiled into oblivion, hold their colour and their sugar instead of bleeding both into the pot water. The fix isn’t a new recipe, it’s a different relationship with heat. The difference between a good root vegetable experience and a forgettable one almost always comes down to three things. Cut everything into roughly the same size so nothing turns to mush while something else is still raw in the middle. Toss it in enough oil that it actually shines, working it in with your hands so every piece gets an even coat. Then get your oven properly hot, we’re talking 425°F, not the timid 350°F so many default to. Spread the pieces out so they’ve got room to breathe on the pan. Crowd them and you get steam instead of the caramelized crust that makes roots worth eating in the first place. Give them space and real heat, and they reward you every single time. Once you’ve got that base down, the seasoning is where the fun starts. Parsnips take beautifully to cumin and a squeeze of lime, the citrus cutting through their natural sweetness. Turnips want something bolder to match their bite, so I’ll reach for smoked paprika with a spoon of maple syrup. Celeriac is quieter by nature and doesn’t need much more than fresh thyme and a good crack of black
ANDREW MACINNIS
By October, the bins at the farm stand are spilling over with root vegetables. Parsnips still wearing their dirt, knobby celeriac that looks like it lost a fight, turnips the size of a fist, beets that stain your hands the second you touch them, and rutabaga sitting heavy and unglamorous at the bottom of the bin, waiting for someone to want it. Most of us bring them home with the best of intentions and then default to the same tired move. Peel, boil, mash, done, and it’s also the reason half of us quietly dread the root vegetable drawer by November.
Fall harvest celebrations in New Glasgow—Oct 3 & 4
SUBMITTED
Colores de México, Sharing the Field 2025
pepper to shine. Beets do well with a splash of good balsamic, the acid cutting through their earthiness the way it does in a salad. For a full plate rather than just a side, toss the roasted roots with cooked green lentils while everything’s still warm, then finish with a drizzle of maple tahini. It’s dense with protein and fibre, and easy on the pantry.
There’s something honest about cooking with root vegetables this time of year. They’re not flashy. They sat in the ground all season doing quiet, thankless work, and now they’re asking for the same thing back from you in the kitchen. A little heat, a little patience, a little trust that they’ve got more to give than you were taught to expect. Pull that tray out when the edges have gone dark and caramelized, when the kitchen smells like maple and thyme and something a little bit like home, and you’ll understand exactly what I mean.
River Clyde Arts (RCA) moves from summer Pageantry into autumn with the sixth edition of its fall harvest festival, Sharing the Field, on October 3 and 4 in New Glasgow. Sharing the Field is a family-friendly celebration of food, music, art, and the harvest, connecting New Glasgow’s agricultural history with contemporary practices in farming, fishing, food production, and arts and culture. The festival offers everything from hands-on workshops to live music and performance. October 3 opens with free workshops in foraging led by Kate MacQuarrie and stilt-walking with River Clyde Pageant stilt director Laura Astwood. Pre-registration is required. That afternoon, North Barn Theatre—led by Ian McFarlane and Laura Stinson—presents their puppet show, A Gorgon’s Tale, outdoors on the Pageant site. Advance tickets are recommended. October 4 is the main festival day, with live music and performances from 2–6 pm across the grounds of The Mill restaurant. The lineup includes the Filipino Dance Masters and Nico Romero Dada, alongside mainstage
artists: Wolf Castle, from Pabineau First Nation, NB, named one of the country’s most promising young rappers by CBC Music; Sweet Gale, an indie band based on PEI; and Fiver, the project of Toronto songwriter Simone Schmidt, a four-time Polaris Prize nominee. The day also features interactive booths and food demonstrations by the Burly Farmer, Fumoir Poirier, Evelyn Bradley, and Mossbank Flower Farm, a community dialogue, kids’ craft station with Becca the Witch, and a by-donation farm stand featuring produce contributed by local growers. Sunday’s programming is free to attend. A hot meal highlighting local foods and flavours from Chef Emily Wells of The Mill and Chef Nigel Thompson of Sneaky Cheats is available from 4–5:45 pm on October 4, and Grey & Dobbin’s rolling bar cart will have alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase. Meal tickets should be purchased in advance, as limited quantities will be available on the day of the event. The full festival schedule, tickets, and pre-registration are available at riverclydearts.com/field. In the event of rain, activities will move indoors.
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Page 12 The BUZZ October 2026
ART This Town is Small Test Press
This Town is Small (TTIS) is offering its members the opportunity to use Test Press for their projects this fall. Test Press is an artistic development opportunity that allows artists to use TTIS’s gallery for self-directed experimentation, including creating new work, exploring new processes, conducting research, fine-tuning ideas, and testing new approaches. Participating artists will have access to the space until November 1.
Calling All Creative School Staff
The Visual Arts Educators Association of PEI invites all teachers and school staff, past or present, to contribute artwork to this year’s Inspire art exhibition. The 2026 educators’ art show will take place at the Delta Prince Edward in Charlottetown during the PEI Teachers’ Federation convention, which runs November 5 and 6. The exhibition celebrates the abundant creativity found throughout Island schools. All styles and mediums of work are welcome. Freestanding display panels will be used, so artwork must be able to hang from a two-inch hook or stand on its own. To participate and to learn more, email B.J. Lecours at bjlecours@edu.pe.ca by October 25.
Call for Submissions: The Voice of Marion
Eptek Art & Culture Centre is seeking submissions for The Voice of Marion, an exhibition to be presented from January to March 2027. The Island-wide call is for visual art inspired by the work of Marion Campbell Hinton. The project is presented in memory of Marion with support from her niece and nephew, Catherine and Bill Callbeck. Selected work will be included in a group exhibition, and monetary awards will be presented in several categories. The jury consists of PEI artists Henry Purdy, Grace Curtis, and Maurice Bernard. Submissions are welcome from artists at any stage of their career. The deadline for expressions of interest is November 1 at midnight. To receive a submission package, including images of Marion’s artwork, email eptek@gov.pe.ca or call 902-888-8373.
Festive Wreath Contest and Exhibition
The annual Festive Wreath Contest and Exhibition returns to Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. Adults, youth, groups, and businesses are welcome to participate with traditional or non-traditional wreath submissions. Wreaths can be dropped off beginning in mid-November, with details to come. Prize winners will be announced, and all entries will be displayed throughout the Centre until mid-December. Presented by the Friends of Confederation Centre. Info: friends@ confederationcentre.com
Review by Sean McQuaid
Containing Multitudes Bed and Breakfast Watermark Theatre, North Rustico September 4, 2026 Watermark Theatre continues its strong summer season this September with Bed and Breakfast, a warmly witty dramedy written by Canadian actor and playwright Mark Crawford. The play premiered at Thousand Islands Playhouse (Gananoque, ON) in 2015 and has graced many other venues since then, including a 2025 revival at Hudson Village Theatre produced and directed by Trevor Barrette. Watermark Artistic Director Robert Tosonos loved Barrette’s version so much that he brought it to PEI. It’s the tale of Brett (played here by Chris Barillaro) and Drew (Jonathan Patterson), a gay couple eking out a living in high-priced Toronto as an interior designer and harried hotel worker, respectively. Outbid repeatedly in their attempts to buy a house so they can ditch their cramped downtown condo, the pair get an unexpected opportunity when Brett’s beloved Aunt Maggie dies and leaves her grand old smalltown home to him. The free house is enticing (especially since Brett often summered there in his youth), and the couple’s combined skills suit their plan to convert the home into a bed and breakfast. But are the boys ready for smalltown living? And is that small town ready for them? What follows is, to some extent, what you might expect—a blend of romance, drama, prosaic struggle and fish-out-of-water comedy—but it’s a story full of layers and secrets that gradually emerge as Brett & Drew discover surprising things about themselves, their families, their new hometown and each other. It’s a very funny show, but also thoughtful and unflinchingly honest in its treatment of these characters and the ups and
downs of being openly gay in a small community. The gimmick that gives Crawford’s play a lot of its pizzazz (and makes it oh-so-affordable to stage) is that the entire cast of 20+ characters are played by two actors (in this case Barillaro and Patterson), so the play is a constant whirlwind of characters morphing into other characters and interacting in ever-shifting combinations. That sounds like a recipe for confusion and incoherence, but director Barrette and the actors make all these character transitions so smooth and clear that it’s never hard to follow who’s who and what’s happening. This despite a sprawling cast of major and minor characters, highlights of which include the gruffly aloof contractor Doug (Patterson), extra-effervescent real estate agent Carrie (Patterson), her shy yet talkative son and baking savant Dustin (Barillaro), kindly old neighbour Harold (Patterson), Drew’s big city bestie Ray (Barillaro), Irish motorcycle enthusiast Chris (Patterson), sweet oddball café owner Alison (Barillaro) and Brett’s dour teenage nephew Cody (Patterson). Crawford’s script gives all of them unique voices and personalities, and real-life husbands Barillaro and Patterson do a superb job of making all these characters come alive with dramatic flair, exacting precision and enviable versatility via vocal shifts, morphing mannerisms and distinctive body language. It’s one of the most impressive and entertaining PEI performances of its kind since Cameron MacDuffee and Robert Clarke made a manic multi-character meal of The 39 Steps at Harbourfront Theatre in 2015. Barillaro and Patterson may be just two actors; but like the narrator of Walt Whitman’s “Song of Myself,” they contain multitudes.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 13
Confed Centre Art Gallery
Rooted in Art, Reimagined Live art event competition results
YOUR ART HERE!
CALL FOR ARTISTS Traffic Cabinet Wrap Public Art Project
Application deadline: NOV 16, 2026 Learn more and apply: charlottetown.ca/publicart
Rooted in Art took on a new form this year, bringing eight local artists together in Victoria Park on September 12 for a three-hour live art competition inspired by Charlottetown’s urban forest. The reimagined event invited the public to watch the creative process unfold and take part through the new Anything Grows competition. All eight PEI-based artists painted the same landscape, featuring a notable grouping of trees in Victoria Park, bringing their own style and interpretation to the scene. The works were reviewed (L–R): Winners Christina Patterson, Kim Jabbour, and selected by a panel with and Cynthia Gunsinger experience in municipal leadership, environmental sustaincompetition gave residents of all ages ability and the local arts community. and skill levels an opportunity to create The 2026 Rooted in Art winners their own artwork inspired by the same are Kim Jabbour (first place, $1500), Victoria Park landscape. A total of 26 Cynthia Gunsinger (second place, people participated, with categories $1000) and Christina Patterson (third created for adults and children. One place, $750). The remaining participatwinner in each category received a $100 ing artists received a $500 honorarium. Blank Canvas Art Supplies gift card. The new Anything Grows charlottetown.ca/roots SUBMITTED
COURTESY THE ARTIST
The Confederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown is featuring two new exhibitions this fall. Deployment: Emmanuelle Léonard, which opened in late September, will be on view until January 10. The exhibition presents the video and photographic work of an artist embedded with the Canadian military in the Far North through the Canadian Forces Artists Program. The show addresses the overlapping realities of climate change and shifting sovereignty as well as the lives of Inuit Rangers and those who serve in the military in this beautiful, grand and difficult environment. Curated by Louise Déry, Deployment is organized and An image from Deployment: Emmanuelle Léonard (above) and Marisa Müsing, Stuck in the Motherboard (video still), circulated by the Galerie de 2023 from the upcoming exhibition Soft Internet Theory l’UQAM. Soft Internet Theory opens October 3 and will be on view until HTML and CSS, lives the heartbeat January 24. of the internet: the part it was born “The dead internet theory proposes of; the part whose very existence is a that the internet—once a cornerstone radical act. These soft fibres are the of human connection, supplanting human touch and the handmade, the the town square, secret meeting spots, soft part of software, and the softer back alleys, and bars—is now void of parts of hardware. The artists in this life. Gone is the space for unfiltered exhibition embrace the soft internet dialogue and the collective voices of theory—creating works that humanize the masses, replaced by the white noise technology, seek empathy in the digiof bots and AI-generated content. At tal, and write poetry into the command the height of the digital age, the foreline. Through practices that span net front of the AI revolution, and in the art, interactive sculpture, installation, depths of fake news awareness, today video, and custom electronics, Soft this theory feels more incisive than Internet Theory invites audiences to ever. Spearheaded by tech oligarchs consider a gentler, more human digital with more unelected power than any future.” —Tristan Sauer, curator humans in history, the long funeral for Also on view are Channelling, which the internet has begun.“ continues until January 3, and Sandeep “But deep within the cracks, pulsJohal: To Be Something More (and More), ing through electrically charged fibre which runs until January 10. optics and held together by scavenged confederationcentre.com
COURTESY THE ARTIST
Two new fall exhibitions on view until January
Page 14 The BUZZ October 2026
GET CREATIVE Paint Club for Adults
Adults can drop in to the Charlottetown Library to paint and socialize on October 5 and 19 at 1 pm. Participants should bring their own supplies.
CreativePEI Artmobile
Drop in for creative time with the CreativePEI Artmobile at the Charlottetown Library on October 7 and 21 at 5 pm. The CreativePEI Artmobile is a travelling event where everyone is welcome. These events are aimed at those for whom art and creativity play a major role in their lives, especially arts sector workers. Participants can choose from the available art supplies to make something new, or bring their own materials or a work-in-progress project. Create with others, chat, seek advice or get inspired. Although these events are primarily for adults, children are welcome to attend under the supervision of a guardian.
Sewing Club
Join fellow sewing and mending enthusiasts (ages 12+) in the Charlottetown Library Makerspace on the second Thursday of the month from 5–8 pm. The next meeting is October 8. Bring a machine and projects, start a beginner-friendly piece, explore tools and techniques or try a machine with guidance.
Creative fun for youth at the Summerside Library
Free arts activities continue this month at the Summerside Library. Drop in for Crafternoon for Kids on Saturdays and Sundays. All ages are welcome for Saturday Storytimes at 10:30 am. Wiggle Giggle Read for babies takes place on Wednesdays at 9:30 am, and Toddler Time is held on Thursdays at 9:30 am. Teens can create a pet ghost out of clay and decorate a habitat for it on October 11 at 3 pm. The Creative Corner runs on October 19 at 6:30 pm and October 21 at 2 pm. Call 902-436-7323 to register. On October 31, kids can drop by for a treat and a craft during Summerside’s Witches on Water Street festivities from 12–2 pm.
Fibre Arts Club
Fibre Arts Club meets weekly on Tuesdays at the Charlottetown Library. Bring supplies or a current project and drop in between 1–3 pm to join knitters, crocheters, rug hookers and other fibre and textile makers.
Creative fun for youth at the Charlottetown Library Free activities for children and teens continue at the Charlottetown Library. Creative Kids Club runs on Wednesdays
at 3:30 pm. October’s theme is Write It, Draw It, with participants writing, drawing and telling stories. Pre-register online for Crafternoon in the Makerspace on October 14 at 1 pm to create a yarn witch. Hooked on Crochet with Julie takes place on October 17 at 10 am; beginners are welcome. Info: 902-368-4642; princeedwardisland.ca/libraryevents
Eptek Makers Session
A drop-in makers session will be held on October 18 from 1–3 pm at the Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside. Makers are invited to bring a current or long-delayed project and join this free session. Catch up with friends, meet new ones and see what other makers are creating. Admission is free, and all are welcome.
Trailside Knitting Group
Bring a knitting project and socialize with other knitters at the Summerside Library on Thursdays at 12 noon.
Let’s Get Creative Kids Art Club
Ryan McAdam-Young, an arts educator with Let’s Get Creative, will instruct an eight-week art program for kids aged 5–14 at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside. Sessions will run from 12:30–1:45 pm or 2:15–3:30 pm on Sundays, October 18–December 6. Children will get messy and creative with paint, clay, collage, paper crafts, puppet making, drawing, and more. There is a fee, and all materials are
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EXPLORE NEW IN GALLERY
Soft Internet Theory
OPENS OCT. 3, 2026
The artists in this exhibition embrace the soft internet theory—creating works that humanize technology, seek empathy in the digital, and write poetry into the command line. Soft Internet Theory invites audiences to consider a gentler, more human digital future.
included. Call 902-888-8373 to pre-register, as spaces are limited.
Drawing techniques workshop
Eptek Art & Culture Centre will host a drawing techniques workshop with Denise Livingstone on October 20 from 1–3 pm. Denise will lead discussions about what makes an effective drawing and provide ways for participants to improve their skills. The workshop is suitable for beginner to intermediate levels. All materials will be provided, and spaces are limited. There is a registration fee. Register at peimuseum.ca or call 902-888-8373.
Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild
The Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the Benevolent Irish Society in Charlottetown. The next meeting is October 21 from 7–9 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm. New members and visitors are welcome. This is a scent-free meeting. There are no meetings in December, July or August. Follow Kindred Spirits Quilt Guild of PEI on Facebook or call 902-6761000 for more information.
PEI Modern Quilt Guild
The PEI Modern Quilt Guild will meet on October 22 from 7–9 pm at the PEI Farm Centre in Charlottetown. Doors open at 6:30 pm. New members and visitors are welcome. This is a scent-free meeting. For more information, email peimqg@ gmail.com or visit peimqg.carrd.co.
STILL ON DISPLAY Consumed: Jane Meredith Whitten
Until Oct. 11, 2026 Using consumer and industrial waste such as plastic packaging and beach debris, Whitten’s art becomes a gesture of redemption in our current shared reality of environmental degradation.
Channelling
Until Jan. 3, 2027 This exhibition sets up a conversation between two paintings depicting a waterfall in the foothills of the Alps and brought to Ellershouse, Nova Scotia around 1870, as well as the recent work of seven contemporary artists based in the Atlantic provinces who seek to articulate attitudes to nature that grapple with and offer alternatives to a difficult inheritance.
Sandeep Johal: To Be Something More (and More) Until Jan. 10, 2027 In this body of work, Vancouver-based artist Sandeep Johal explores the resilience of women through painting, collage, textiles, and mural in her signature Indo-folk aesthetic. Johal’s work articulates and confronts harsh and ugly realities with their dissonant opposites: brightness, hope and beauty.
Deployment: Emmanuelle Léonard
Until Jan. 10, 2027
This exhibition presents the video and photographic work of an artist embedded with the Canadian military in the Far North through the Canadian Forces Artists Program. It addresses the overlapping realities of climate change and shifting sovereignty as well as the lives of Inuit Rangers and those who serve in the military in this beautiful, grand and difficult environment.
GALLERY EVENTS
Soft Internet Theory Exhibition Opening
OCT. 3 at 7:00 PM This event is free but please RSVP for the talk and tour by emailing Sodam at sjeong@confederationcentre.com TALK AND TOUR With the curator at 6 p.m.
ArtTalk
OCT. 27 at 6:30 PM Talk with artists from Channelling exhibition along with curator Pan Wendt.
Marisa Müsing, Stuck in the Motherboard (video still), 2023, single-channel video, 7:38 minutes. Courtesy of the artist.
CONFEDERATIONCENTRE.COM/GALLERY
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 15
In the Kitchen
Scotland, My Ancestral Home
Summerside Art Club exhibition at Eptek
Ellen Martin exhibition at Harbourfront Theatre
Artwork by Rita Arsenault (left) and Michele Hartlen
Summerside Art Club’s exhibition, In the Kitchen, will be on display at Eptek Art & Culture Centre beginning October 8. Exploring all things kitchen-related, the exhibition features artwork in a variety of styles and mediums, including oil, acrylic, watercolour, and chalk. The official opening will take place on October 18 from 1–3 pm, with members of the Summerside Art Club onsite to meet visitors, showcase their work,
and discuss their creative processes. The opening will coincide with the October Makers’ Session, and visitors are welcome to bring an art or craft project to work on. This event is free to attend, and everyone is welcome. Eptek is located at 130 Heather Moyse Drive in Summerside. For more information, call 902-888-8373, visit peimuseum.ca or follow @eptek.centre on social media.
(L–R from top): Glencoe, Loch Buie, Waiting for the Train, and Eilean Donan (castle) by Ellen Martin
Ellen Martin’s solo exhibition, Scotland, My Ancestral Home, will open at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on October 4 from 2–4 pm. All are welcome to attend. The show is based on spiritual experiences Martin had during a recent trip to Scotland and endeavours to capture the magic and mystery she found in the ancient landscape. It includes large original oil paintings of Moy Castle, Duart Castle, and Eilean Donan Castle, among other Scottish landmarks. Scotland, My Ancestral Home will remain on display for one month following the opening. A book of the same name, depicting Martin’s experience, will also be available for sale.
Rabit Holes and Bunny Trails Denise Livingstone exhibition at Breadalbane Gallery
NOVEMBER BUZZ DEADLINE Thurs, October 15
SUBMITTED
Denise Livingstone, a storyteller in paint, will present her new exhibition, Rabbit Holes and Bunny Trails, in the Annex at the Breadalbane Gallery this month. An opening reception will be held on October 10 from 3–5 pm. All are welcome. The series was inspired by an unlikely friendship between a rabbit and Livingstone’s dog. Watching their antics helped her understand the rabbit’s personality. Although familiar with the personality traits of chickens and sheep, she had never considered that rabbits had such distinct character. “I love the personalities that came out, and rabbits are very subtle in their personality,” Livingstone says. The exhibition features portraits of the dog-loving rabbit alongside other rabbits and animals. A regular contributor to the Breadalbane Gallery, Livingstone will share the story of her work at the reception. The main gallery will continue to feature new work by gallery artists. The gallery is located at 4023 Dixon Road in Breadalbane. Gallery hours are
One of the characters in Rabbit Holes and Bunny Trails by Denise Livingstone (above) and Denise in the studio.
Tuesday from 12–3:30 pm, Thursday from 3–8 pm and Friday from 9 am–12:30 pm.
ISLAND ARTIST susan christensen L.M. Montgomery and the Spirit of Place Paintings inspired by the poetry of Montgomery
Poetry by Renée Blanchette inspired by the painting of Christensen L.M. Montgomery is a trademark of Heirs of L.M. Montgomery Inc.
Green Gables Visitor Center Tues - Thurs 10 am to 4 pm Susan will paint live Sponsored by
Page 16 The BUZZ October 2026
MARKETS & SALES & FAIRS …oh my A note from The Buzz
Hosting a seasonal craft fair or market? Email the details to nakeesa@buzzpei. com by October 15 for consideration in our November print edition.
Charlottetown Farmers Market
The Charlottetown Farmers Market is currently operating at 614 North River Rd. The market is open year-round on Saturdays from 9 am–2 pm. Farmers, crafters, artisans, and hot food vendors sell local organic produce, fish, meats, baked goods, preserves, roasted coffee, specialty teas, and more. Parking is available, and signage will help direct visitors. For updates, follow @ CharlottetownFarmersMarket on social media or visit charlottetownfarmersmarket.com.
Church Mouse Thrift Shop
The Church Mouse Thrift Shop is open from 9 am–2 pm on Saturdays through October at St. John’s Anglican Church. The sale includes quality, gently used items such as clothing, footwear, housewares, books, bedding, small furniture, collectibles, and more. New treasures arrive each week. 391 Nelson St, Crapaud.
Summerside Farmers Market The Summerside Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 9 am–1 pm. Find local produce, baked goods, meat, fish, prepared food, cheese, and artisan goods. 250 Water St, Summerside.
Downtown Charlottetown Farmers Market
The Downtown Charlottetown Farmers Market is open from 10 am–3 pm every Sunday through October. Visitors will find more than 90 local vendors selling fresh produce, preserves, prepared foods, baked goods, handmade soap, woodwork, knitting, hooked rugs, jewelry, artwork, pottery, gift items, food service, and more. 2 Great George St, Confederation Landing, Charlottetown.
Fall Craft & Yard Sale
A Fall Craft & Yard Sale will be held on October 10 from 9 am–2 pm at Milton Hall. Shoppers can browse 27 tables featuring crafts, homemade foods, preserves, clothing, Christmas items, Scentsy, Epicure products, dishcloths, the Yuckapatoo Book, and other one-of-akind items. Admission is free for children under 12. Donations will also be accepted to help Jeff Doherty save his family home. 7 New Glasgow Rd, North Milton.
Retro Revival Market
The third annual Retro Revival Market will take place on October 10 from 10 am–3 pm in St. Mary’s Pavilion at Under the Spire. This curated market will feature 15 vendors offering vintage decor and collectibles, thrifted fashion, retro colour combinations, patterns and patchwork, pastries, tones and textures, dried foliage, watercolours, and nostalgic trends. Local materials, artistry, and craftsmanship were used to create products made exclusively for the market. There is no entry fee, but donations are welcome. 1374 Hamilton Rd, Kensington. Follow @ retrorevival.pei on IG for updates.
Bonshaw Farmers Market
The next Bonshaw Farmers Market takes place on October 10 from 11 am–1 pm at the Bonshaw Community Centre (25 Green Rd). Local vendors have baked goods, flowers, and other locally produced treats for sale. The Bonshaw Women’s Institute will offer a free community meal during the market. Shoppers should bring their own bags. The market is cash only. Follow Bonshaw Farmers Market on Facebook.
Park Royal United Yard Sale Fundraiser
Park Royal United will hold a yard sale fundraiser on October 17 from 9 am–1 pm in the church gymnasium. Shoppers will find a wide variety of new-to-you items, including housewares, jewelry, books, small appliances, furniture, tools, arts and crafts, prints, paintings, and more. Funds raised will support the programming and
outreach of Park Royal United, helping the church continue its work in and with the local community. Visitors are asked to use the Headstart doors, located to the left of the main entrance. Parking is available. 11 Christie Dr, Charlottetown.
WoHeLo/QEH Auxiliary Clothing Sale
The WoHeLo/QEH Auxiliary Clothing Sale returns this fall at its Charlottetown location, 144 Dorchester St. The three-day sale will take place on October 22 from 9 am–8 pm, October 23 from 9 am–8 pm, and October 24 from 9 am–2 pm. The sale offers gently used clothing, winter wear, and accessories for adults. Proceeds will go toward purchasing cardiac monitors for the QEH NICU, helping the province’s high-risk newborns. Shoppers should bring their own bags. An ATM will be available on-site, and only cash purchases will be accepted. Follow QEH Auxiliary on Facebook for updates.
Watermark Theatre Fall Craft Fair Watermark Theatre will hold a craft fair on October 24 from 10 am–4 pm at the North Rustico Lions Club (17 Timber Ln). Those interested in being a vendor can call 902-963-3963.
Kirk Ceilidh Fall Fair
The Kirk Ceilidh Fall Fair fundraiser is set for October 31 from 9:30 am–12:30 pm at the Kirk of St. James. There will be baked goods, Christmas cakes, books, crafts, deli items, plants, preserves, raffles, and tickets for the Christmas Tea. 35 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown. Info: kirk2026. fundraiser.support
Gifts from the Heart
The next public thrift sale at Gifts from the Heart will be held on October 31 from 10 am–3 pm. Proceeds from the monthly sales, held on the last Saturday of each month, help cover operating costs. The organization provides free food, clothing, furniture, and housewares to low-income families and people facing temporary hardship across PEI. 10 Maple Hills Ave, Charlottetown. Info: giftsfromtheheartinc.com
First Frost Craft Fair
The First Frost Craft Fair will be held on November 7 from 10 am–3 pm at the Cornwall APM Centre. The fair will feature over 40 Island artisans and vendors offering gifts, crafts, food, and Girl Guide cookies. Admission is free for children under 12. 35 Mercedes Dr, Cornwall.
Wheatley River Country Craft Fair
A fall sale will be held on October 30 and 31 from 9 am–1 pm at Zion Presbyterian. Shoppers will find a large selection of adult and children’s clothing along with shoes, purses, books, and puzzles. There will also be a café and a bake sale. All proceeds will go to the church. 135 Prince St, Charlottetown.
The Wheatley River Women’s Institute is hosting a two-day Country Craft Fair on November 7 and 8 from 9 am–2 pm at the Wheatley River Community Hall (16 Rackhams Ln). Island creators will be selling preserves, knits, crafts, woodworking, paintings, fresh greenery, wood-burned items, candles, baked goods, natural beeswax items, rustic artwork, and more across two floors. There will be a 50/50 draw, and proceeds from the fair will go to the Women’s Institute, which operates the community hall and donates to local charities.
Charlottetown Farmers’ Market at Halloween
Hunter River Holiday Craft Fair
Zion Presbyterian Fall Sale
The Charlottetown Farmers’ Market has been cursed. This Halloween, on October 31 from 9 am–2 pm, the market will include a scavenger hunt for all ages. Dress in costume, find the elixir, and break the curse. 614 North River Rd, Charlottetown.
The annual Hunter River Holiday Craft Fair will be held on November 14 from 10 am–3 pm at the Hunter River Community Centre (19816 Rte 2). There will be a selection of holiday crafts and gifts available, as well as cider and hot chocolate. There is a small admission fee, with all proceeds supporting the Dr. Kent G. Ellis Heritage Park.A list of vendors will be available on the Rural Municipality of Hunter River’s social media pages. Info: admin.hunter. river@gmail.com, 902-621-2170
PEI Crafts Council Christmas Craft Fair
The PEI Crafts Council will hold its annual Christmas Craft Fair at Port Charlottetown on November 20 and 21 from 10 am–5 pm and November 22 from 10 am–4 pm. Celebrating its 61st year, PEI’s longest-running craft show will feature pottery, hand-painted silk, books, knits, woodworking, mustard, art, photography, jewelry, chocolate, embroidery, maple syrup, and more. Access via Stan MacPherson Way, Charlottetown. peicraftscouncil.com
PEI Fibre Vote arts and culture Festival Creative Careers by Jane Ledwell
A poignant image from the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona was a piece of Charlottetown public art, a blue heron by Ahmon Katz, unexpectedly given back its wading nature when waters reclaimed Water Street and submerged its feet. On November 2, many of us get to vote for leaders in our cities, towns, or rural municipalities. Local governments have a vital role to support arts, culture, and heritage. Contributing visual stories to our communities through public art is one part, but they can do far more. Just a few priorities include developing and maintaining cultural policy and planning; providing funding and other support for grassroots arts organizations, community festivals, and heritage preservation; building culture infrastructure in community centres, local stages, and gallery walls; or offering arts-focused youth programming. In 2011, when then-Mayor of Calgary Naheed Nenshi was visiting Toronto, he described the “ballet effect” in cities: “Everyone wants to live in a city that has a great ballet, even if they themselves will never go to the ballet,” he said. “It’s the kind of thing that makes people happy to live in a place.” Okay, so we’re lacking a local ballet, and not all of us live in cities, but we have so much to make us happy here. Whether a symphony orchestra, a national arts centre in Confederation Centre of the Arts, multiple fantastic mawi’omis, a startling number of independent bookstores and cinemas, bunches of rural theatre stages, and fascinating museum sites spread across the island. Arts, culture, and heritage matter to place-making, whether we are making a home for ourselves or attracting healthcare professionals or tradespeople or other newcomers to make a life here with us. If local governments play a role in supporting all of these to thrive, we have to vote as if they matter. During the federal election last year, the Canadian Arts Coalition reminded arts advocates, “Politicians pay attention to what they hear the loudest from their communities.” Public sculptures don’t speak for themselves when municipal candidates drift past them on the campaign trail. Let’s make sure candidates hear loudly from our communities that we expect local governments to play a positive
role in arts, culture, and heritage. Ask your candidates what they know about your municipality’s cultural policy and funding programs—and if they don’t know much, ask how they will find out more. Point them to creative workers and organizations in the community, Ask if your municipal government has an arts and culture advisory board, and if they commit to maintain it and to listen well? If heritage is your focus, honour the late heritage activist (and past Charlottetown councillor) Catherine Hennessey, by asking candidates, using Catherine’s mantra, what they will do about heritage, to “Know it, love it and protect it.” Is your community building a rink or other infrastructure? Ask if there will also be a kiln in the building, for the pottery kids who might go pro—or a stage, or a room set up acoustically for musical ensembles to rehearse. If not, why not? As candidates come to your door, consider: what is your municipality’s “ballet”? What, by existing, makes you happy to live in this place? Maybe the most important strategy in conversations with candidates for municipal councillor or mayor is to mention what you love in arts, culture, and heritage—and to ask them what they love. What, for them, makes the community feel welcoming and worth living in? Ask them, perhaps, what they will build that can stand in the water and bear witness with us when the world around us changes.
“The art of the people is a true mirror to their minds.” —Jawaharlal Nehru
Workshops and vendors marketplace at Delta Hotel in Charlottetown—Oct 1 to 3 The PEI Fibre Festival returns October 1–3 at the Delta Hotel in Charlottetown. Created to support the Island’s wool industry and craftspeople working with wool and fibres through knitting, crocheting, felting, rug hooking and more, the festival features a Marketplace that showcases fibre-related products, including wool from various animals, hand-dyed fibres, and tools of the trade. Close to 50 workshops are on offer this year, led by local and international instructors such as Stephanie PearlMcPhee, Carson Demers, Kim McBrien Evans, Lisa Freeman, Charlene Miller, and Debbie Miller. The program also includes farm tours with Janet Ogilvie of Green Gable Alpacas and Flory Sanderson of Island Hill Farm, three Island tours, and a social event featuring entertainment by the Ross Family Ceilidh. The festival is open to the public. Visit peifibrefestival.com for tickets.
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Bookmark your calendar Launches and author events in October Book Launch with Carol Bruneau
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October 8, 11 am Bookmark, 111 Kent St, Charlottetown
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October 6, 7 pm Faculty Lounge, Main Building, UPEI, Charlottetown
Brenton Dickieson will launch his new book, The Spiritual Imagination of C.S. Lewis, in conversation with UPEI professor Kate Scarth, author of Romantic Suburbs: Imagining Home in Greater London. Admission is free. With book sales exceeding 200 million copies, a billion-dollar film industry, and a bookshelf of critical, philosophical, and popular works, C.S. Lewis is at once the beloved author of The Chronicles of Narnia and a leading 20th-century Englishspeaking Christian public intellectual. What holds all this together? What is the beating heart of Lewis’ work? In The Spiritual Imagination of C.S. Lewis, Dickieson argues that what Lewis reveals throughout his writings is a cross-shaped, or cruciform, spirituality. This death-and-resurrection pattern unites Lewis’s Christian thought and produces a hopeful and evocative spirituality that is embedded in his poetry and prose. Dickieson teaches in the Faculty of Arts at UPEI and is a Lecturer and Preceptor in Signum University’s MA program in Imaginative Literature. He explores the intersections of faith, fantasy, and fiction on his popular website, A Pilgrim in Narnia.
Bestselling Nova Scotia author Carol Bruneau will celebrate the PEI launch of her new novel, The Little Way, with a reading, discussion and book signing. Admission is free. The Little Way is an authentic portrayal of one woman’s mission to redefine herself on her own terms from the author of Threshold and Brighten the Corner Where You Are. Isla Fownes knows flowers. After running her shop, Flower Power! for nearly 15 years, she can make a casket spray in her sleep. A dedicated mother and daughter on the cusp of 50, Isla spends every spare minute caring for her aging father and her aimless daughter. That is, until a handsome widower’s sailboat sinks in the waters off her Halifax home. The Little Way asks whether one can continue to be a hopeless romantic when it feels like everything is working against them. Bruneau is the author of twelve books: four short story collections, one work of nonfiction, and seven novels. Bruneau is Bookmark’s 2026 Readerity author. Her articles, short fiction, and literary and visual arts reviews have appeared nationwide in journals and newspapers, and her stories and essays in various anthologies. A past winner of the Thomas Raddall Atlantic Fiction Award and two Dartmouth Book Awards, Bruneau lives and writes in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Book Launch with Steven Mayoff October 13, 7 pm Bookmark, 111 Kent St, Charlottetown Island author Steven Mayoff will launch his new novel, Poor Man’s Opera, a wildly radical reimagining of Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure. Admission is free. Poor Man’s Opera is set in a remote
future where Canada is known as the Northlands and has been annexed by its authoritarian neighbour to the south, the Free Republic of America. Former provinces and territories are now self-governing city-states spread out through a wilderness ravaged of its natural resources. Set in New Old York (at one time Toronto), the novel is narrated by a gender-fluid Tarot reader who is an unofficial advisor to a high-ranking politician. Mayoff has written his novel in a faux Shakespearean language, mixed with modern colloquialisms, French, hip hop, and his own invented rhyming slang. Mayoff was born in Montreal and moved to PEI in 2001. His fiction and poetry have appeared in literary journals across Canada, the U.S. and abroad. His work includes Fatted Calf Blues, Our Lady of Steerage, Swinging Between Water and Stone, and The Island Gospel According to Samson Grief. As a lyricist, he has collaborated with composer Ted Dykstra on Dion a Rock Opera, which had its world premiere at the Coal Mine Theatre in Toronto.
Book Launch with Malcolm Murray
Book Launch with Nancy Taber and Katie Mac
October 19, 7 pm Faculty Lounge, Main Building, UPEI, Charlottetown
October 16, 7 pm Beaconsfield Carriage House, 2 Kent St, Charlottetown
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Book Launch with Brenton Dickieson
Bookmark will host a double book launch featuring Nancy Taber, author of Cove of Witches, and Katie Mac, author of Dunk River Murders. Both novels draw on Prince Edward Island settings, weaving mystery and suspense into their stories. Admission is free. In Cove of Witches, Taber has created a fast-paced and thrilling adventure full of folklore, history… and witches set on PEI. If Simone, a clairvoyant police cadet, doesn’t solve the mystery of her family’s relationship with the
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Bookmark, Charlottetown’s independent bookstore, will host a series of book launches and author events throughout October, featuring local, national and international writers. The lineup includes literary fiction, mysteries, fantasy, and philosophy, with most events free and open to the public. Tickets are required for select events.
phantom ship, the Doirons past and present will be in peril. Her ancestors need her but is she powerful enough to save them? And all the while the phantom ship waits, blazing in a hidden cove, calling through the generations. Simone must protect her family’s legacy or be forever haunted by the phantom ship. Katie Mac’s Dunk River Murders follows Maggie, a woman who is burnt out in her old political job and is running away from her problems by way of fly fishing, until dead bodies keep inconveniently popping up in her river. With a demoralized cop on the case, a traumatized potential survivor, and a web of mob deals to untangle, the only way to solve the murder might be to ask her unsavoury former boss for help. Taber writes mysteries including her debut novel A Sea of Spectres, which are inspired by PEI history and folklore, with witchy women who make questionable decisions. She is a current Brock University professor and a former Canadian military officer. Taber teaches fiction workshops at the French River Academie of Arts and Culture and facilitates with Writers Collective of Canada. Mac writes noir, thrillers and westerns, all with a little bit of love and comedy. She co-wrote the Bell Fibe TV1 show Currie, based on the life of PEI-born wild west outlaw George ‘Flat Nose’ Currie. Mac received an Island Literary Award for her short story “The Key to Wednesdays” and her debut noir novel, Ken’s Corner was published in 2024.
UPEI philosophy professor Malcolm Murray will launch his new book, Moral Puzzles: Contractarian Fix. Admission is free. Standard approaches to moral puzzles rest on a shared premise: that morality is timeless, written into the fabric of the universe. In Murray’s view, morality is not a set of enduring truths but the outcome of human evolution and natural selection. This
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 19
social contract, a system of rules that rational, self-interested agents agree to follow because it enables a safer, more co-operative social life, highlights the difference between idealized moral theories and the real-world applications that often fall short of those ideals. In elegant, entertaining prose Moral Puzzles ventures beyond the popular understanding of morality as a natural product, revisiting problems in moral philosophy with striking results. Murray invites readers to rediscover the central puzzles of moral theory through fresh arguments and interpretations. Murray is the author of six philosophy books including Morals and Consent: Contractarian Solutions to Ethical Woes. In addition, he is the author of The Philosopher, a collection of one-act plays, and his short stories have appeared in Snow Softly Falling, Riptides, Galleon, and Fiction Fix.
100 Books of the 21st Century list. Her work has been translated into thirty-seven languages and adapted for television, including the Station Eleven series and the recently announced Exit Party series, which she will be a co-showrunner.
ALL OCTOBER
An Evening with Ann Cleeves October 29, 7 pm Delta Prince Edward, 18 Queen St, Charlottetown
FALL IN L VE WITH CHARLOTTETOWN
SIGNATURE EVENTS
An Evening with Emily St. John Mandel
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MARIE FITZGERALD
October 22, 7 pm Florence Simmons Performance Hall, 140 Weymouth St, Charlottetown
Bestselling author Emily St. John Mandel will visit Charlottetown for the launch of her new novel, Exit Party. Island author Caitlyn Paxson will moderate the evening’s conversation. Visit bookmarkreads.ca for tickets. A novel of doubles, shadow worlds, and fractured timelines, Exit Party takes the reader from a future America splintered by civil war to the seaside cliffs of Greece where weapons dealers hide in an elegant resort, and from the domed city of Paris to a colony on the moon. The novel explores the price of safety, the perils of the surveillance state, a requiem for a world not unlike our own, and a story of resilience in the face of cataclysmic change. St. John Mandel is the author of six previous novels, including Sea of Tranquility, The Glass Hotel, which was shortlisted for the Giller Prize, and Station Eleven, which was a finalist for a National Book Award and was included in the New York Times Best
Internationally bestselling crime writer Ann Cleeves will visit Charlottetown to launch her new novel, The Dying Light. She will be in conversation with Mattea Roach, host of CBC’s Bookends. Tickets are available at bookmarkreads.ca. New York Times bestselling author Ann Cleeves returns with the fourth Two Rivers mystery featuring detective Matthew Venn. In The Dying Light, Venn and his team are called in to investigate a puzzling death. The body of a young woman has been found in the swimming pool of a lavish holiday home in North Devon, and her best friend is missing. Caught between a powerful family’s secrets and a powder keg of local tensions, Venn must navigate a treacherous path. Knowing that the real answers lie not in what people say, but in the silence that they keep. Cleeves is the author of more than 35 critically acclaimed novels. In 2017, she was awarded the highest accolade in crime writing, the CWA Diamond Dagger. She created the popular detectives Vera Stanhope, Jimmy Perez, and Matthew Venn, whose stories have been adapted for television in Vera, Shetland and The Long Call. An advocate for reading to improve health and wellbeing and supporting access to books, Cleeves launched her Reading for Wellbeing project in partnership with local authorities across northeast England in 2021. She lives in Northumberland, where the Vera books are set.
FARM DAY IN THE CITY OCT 4
PICKLEFEST AT PEIBC OCT 10
HARVEST FEST AT FOUNDERS’ POP-UP ORACLE CARD READINGS FOOD HALL & MARKET | OCT 17 THURSDAYS & FRIDAYS
HAUNTED HORSE & WAGON RIDES | FRIDAYS
PLUS:
BEACONSFIELD BY CANDLELIGHT | SELECT DATES
FALL MARKETS MASQUERADE PARTY PUMPKIN CARVING THEMED WORKSHOPS SPOOKY MOVIES & MORE
THE BODY & THE BELVEDERE AT THE HAVILAND | OCT 15, 17, 18
GHOST TOURS SELECT DATES
WICKED SPIRITS COCKTAIL MIX-OFF | EVERY DAY
FESTIVAL SCHEDULE & HOTEL DEALS:
DiscoverCharlottetown.com/Scarecrow
Queer Poetry Club
The Queer Poetry Club meets from 2–4 pm on the first Saturday of each month at the PEERS Alliance office in Charlottetown. The next meeting is October 3. The club offers members of the queer community an opportunity to write, read, and listen to poetry in a supportive environment. Snacks and materials are provided, and no poetry experience is needed. Info: queerpoetryclub@proton.me
Writers’ Social
The PEI Writers’ Guild (PEIWG) invites writers of all genres to a free, drop-in social at bar1911 in Charlottetown. Meet other writers, share ideas, and build community over tea or coffee. The Writers’ Social takes place on the second Saturday of each month at 1 pm. The next meeting is October 10. Info: peiwritersguild.com
M.G. Field Book Launch
PEI author M. G. Field will launch his political mystery novel, The Blue Wave, in the Blue Jay Boardroom at the Charlottetown Library on October 13 at 4 pm. The event is free, and all are welcome.
The Afternoon Book Club will meet at the Summerside Library on October 19 at 1 pm. Pick up this month’s selection at the circulation desk.
Book Lovers Book Club
The next Book Lovers Book Club meeting at the Charlottetown Library is on October 20 at 6 pm. Join an informal, conversation-style chat about books with other bibliophiles. No assigned reading or registration is required.
Writers’ Open Mic
The PEI Writers’ Guild hosts an open mic on the fourth Thursday of every month at the Gallery Coffee House and Bistro in Charlottetown at 7 pm. The next open mic is October 22. Writers, readers, and attentive listeners come together to support courageous writers. Those interested in reading can sign up at the venue on the night of the event.
Monday Night Book Club
The Monday Night Book Club meets at the Charlottetown Library on October 26 at 6 pm. The group of like-minded book lovers chooses a new title each month. New members are welcome.
Halloween Dress-Up Storytime
Kids can wear their Halloween costumes to the Charlottetown Library on October 31 at 10:30 am for a dress-up storytime followed by a spooky craft.
Bring Your Own Book Club
Summerside Library Book Club
Scary Story Contest for Kids
Book vs. Movie Club
Teens can attend Bring Your Own Book Club, hosted by the Summerside Library and PEERS Alliance, at the library on October 13 at 4 pm. Participants will discuss their latest reads, enjoy snacks, and take part in the occasional book-themed activity.
Kids can write or draw a scary story, poem, or comic and submit it to the Charlottetown Library by midnight on October 15. The winner could receive a gift card to Bookmark and have their work published in the library’s newsletter. Visit the library in person or online at princeedwardisland.ca/libraryevents for more details.
Creative Writing Group
A creative writing group meets at bar1911 in Charlottetown on the third Saturday of each month at 10 am. The next meeting is October 17. Hosted by the PEI Writers’ Guild, the group offers a supportive space for writers to share their work, participate in workshops, receive constructive feedback, and develop their skills. Info: peiwritersguild.com
The Summerside Library Book Club will meet on October 31 at 2 pm. Join fellow book lovers for a lively discussion about some of today’s most thought-provoking books. Copies of the latest book club selection can be picked up at the main circulation desk.
The Book vs. Movie Club launches at the Charlottetown Library this month. Participants are invited to read Stephen King’s Misery in October before attending a screening of the film adaptation on November 3 at 6 pm. A group discussion about the book and film will follow the screening. Copies of the book are available at the library. Everyone is welcome.
NOVEMBER BUZZ DEADLINE
Thurs, October 15
Featuring visiting and local poets—Oct 7 Island Studies Press presents the Island Reading Series on October 7, 7 pm at the Faculty Lounge, Main Building 201, UPEI. This reading will feature visiting poets Leigh Kotsilidis from Tiohtiá:ke (Montreal) and Conyer Clayton from Kentucky/Ottawa, both of whom are launching new books. Joining them are local poets John MacKenzie and PEI Poet Laureate Bren Simmers. Of Some of Us May Live, Eleanor Wachtel writes, “In this wise, opulent mashup of vocabularies, Leigh Kotsilidis summons Bear, Wolf – alongside many other kinds of living beings – and neural networks to tell her stories. The result (L–R, from top): Leigh Kotsilidis, Conyer Clayton, John is a beautifully readable MacKenzie, and Bren Simmers set of questions about life of the Ottawa Book Award), and many suspended on the edge of the chapbooks. abyss. Enter her world of omnivorous John MacKenzie’s first book, curiosity.” Leigh Kotsilidis has written Sledgehammer and Other Poems, was two full-length collections of poetry, shortlisted for the Atlantic Poetry Prize Hypotheticals (2011) and Some of Us May and the Gerald Lampert Award. He is Live (2026), both with Coach House also the author of Shaken by Physics and Books. She is also an intermedia artist. Letters I Didn’t Write. Island Studies Conyer Clayton’s third poetry Press will publish his new collection, collection, the lake-shaped excuse, is a Stones Into Still Water in spring 2027. book about grief and so, like most grief He lives in Charlottetown. books, it is ultimately a book about Bren Simmers is the winner of love. The voices of a long-dead mother the 2025 Latner Griffin Writers’ Trust and a still-living daughter merge and Poetry Prize. Her latest book, The twine and separate in a series of long Work (Gaspereau Press, 2024), won the poems that mirror yet fall apart from Pat Lowther Memorial Award and was one another, much like the speakers’ a finalist for the Governor General’s lives. Conyer Clayton is a queer writer Literary Awards. and editor from Louisville, a dual The Island Reading Series promotes US-Canadian citizen living between the cross-pollination of Island and Ottawa and Kentucky. They are the author of But the sun, and the ships, off-Island poets. The event is free and and the fish, and the waves (Winner of all are welcome to attend. Books will the Archibald Lampman Award), We be available for purchase from the Shed Our Skin Like Dynamite (Winner authors.
JOANNA ELDREDGE MORRISSEY
The PEI Writers’ Guild Poetry Club meets at 10 am on the first Saturday of each month at the Voluntary Resource Centre in Charlottetown. The next meeting is October 3. Members discuss poems by other poets that they love and, if they wish, one of their own. The club is open to PEIWG members. To become a member, visit peiwritersguild.com.
Afternoon Book Club
MIKE NEEHAM
PEIWG Poetry Club
Island Reading Series
FRANCOIS DUPRAZ
READERS/WRITERS
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A gift of Island Poetry
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ART IN THE OPEN feeling the air summer and fall mixing cloud and memories inside one bubble: cello loops, soundtrack of this day return here, says the wind again and again, year in, year out our songs, over grass or snow the breeze arrives a stranger grass is not from here either Norway maples not either, nor lupins belong and deer have long gone extirpated, the word used for what is lost to elsewhere attention moves free its return is not promised grieve the forced flower celebrate the perennial coming back to entertain small moments like this flag flies, children loose and free I rest in the shade dare ga uketoru no ka (who is going to receive) watashi no omoi (my thoughts?) This excerpt was collaboratively written during the community renga circle at Art in the Open. Thank you to all who participated. Each month Bren Simmers selects a poem by an Island poet for The Buzz.
Saturday, Nov. 7 10am–4pm $0 Admission Charlottetown Library 97 Queen St
Page 22 The BUZZ October 2026
PEI BOOKS The MacLeods of Prince Edward Island Harold S. MacLeod
appendix to ensure the main family trees remain easy to navigate. For the first time, this resource is also available as a fully searchable Kindle e-book, allowing readers to instantly locate ancestors, places, and historical details. Whether for seasoned genealogists or MacLeods discovering their ancestry, this restored edition is an essential addition to any family history collection. It fulfills Selkirk Book Publishing’s mission of sharing the rich Scottish heritage of PEI with the world.
years of experience in Canada and the United States,” says Petrie. “The story draws directly on that experience.” Charles Mills, owner of The Bookman in Charlottetown, has sold out of his entire inventory of the novella and called it “a five-star match for the genre.” Petrie plans to hold a book signing at The Bookman this fall. Details will be announced. Dig Deeper is available locally at The Bookman (when they restock) and Bookmark in Charlottetown, and online through Amazon.
recently, serving as artist on the hit Cult of the Lamb series. He is also the creator of Chiaroscuro, the Angora Napkin trilogy and Butterfly House (with his wife, Brenda Hickey). Little has been nominated four times for the Eisner Awards, as well as for the Harvey, Ringo, Doug Wright and Sequential Awards. He is the co-founder of Pegamoose Press. At the launch, Little will talk about the trip that inspired and informed the book and sign copies. More details will be announced.
Levada
Steps and Stumbles: Along the Way
Troy Little
David Weale
Dig Deeper:
A Joe MacGregor Investigation James B. Petrie
Selkirk Stories, an independent PEI publishing house, will present a new and revised edition of The MacLeods of Prince Edward Island by Harold S. MacLeod. A book launch will take place at 2 pm on October 3 at the Montague Rotary Library. Preserving every detail of MacLeod’s original research, this edition has completely reorganized the vast family trees into an intuitive, alphabetical structure based on the patriarch’s first name. Previously disconnected family lines and duplicate entries have been seamlessly united. A major highlight is the newly consolidated family tree for Selkirk Settler Donald of Kendram (Donald the Pioneer), bringing together generations of descendants into one clear lineage. Supplementary documents and articles have also been organized into an
James B. Petrie published his crime novella, Dig Deeper: A Joe MacGregor Investigation, in May 2026 through his imprint, Bonded Notebook Press. Opening at Saint Dunstan’s Basilica, Dig Deeper is set among the streets, neighbourhoods, and landmarks of Charlottetown. “I grew up in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and I am a licensed private investigator with over thirty
PEI comic writer, artist, and publisher Troy Little will launch his new graphic novella, Levada, at Bookmark in Charlottetown on November 5 at 7 pm. In Levada, an unlikely pair of characters cross paths while hiking on the beautiful island of Madeira, Portugal. What follows is a meditation on the idealism of youth and the lessons of a life lived. Little spent his 50th birthday on a quiet, seven-day solo hike around the island, sketching and reflecting on life. The book is presented and bound like a travel journal, reflecting the sketchbook nature of his journey. Little’s work includes The Powerpuff Girls, Rick & Morty, adapting Hunter S. Thompson’s Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas, Kevin Eastman’s Radically Rearranged Ronin Ragdolls and, most
Have a renting question? We can help. 902-940-5368
renting@legalinfopei.ca Legal information for tenants & landlords.
Storyteller and best-selling PEI author David Weale, author of more than 15 books, including five for children, has just released a new volume. This one, however, is different from all previous efforts. It is about his own life. A book launch will be held on October 25 at the Haviland Club in Charlottetown from 2–4 pm. All are welcome. The title, Steps and Stumbles: Along the Way, could be used to describe the experience of anyone. In each life, there are sure, confident steps along with stumbling missteps, and in this volume, Weale recalls both types of experience in his personal journey from youth to age. There are many stories that will make the reader laugh, while a few are bittersweet with disappointment and others dark with loss. Others are rich with the author’s reverence for the Island landscape, and still others are leavened with gratitude for the Islanders he has met along the way.
“Literature is the most agreeable way of ignoring life.” —Fernando Pessoa
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Readerity Talk & Soirée
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Bookmark presents annual event at Confed Centre—Oct 8
Author Carol Bruneau (left) and Deirdre Kessler
The annual Bookmark Readerity Talk & Soirée will take place on October 8 at 7 pm in Studio One at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. The evening will bring together book lovers for stimulating conversation, refreshments, and the 2026 Bookmark Readerity Talk, featuring award-winning author Carol Bruneau in conversation with Deirdre Kessler. To attend, RSVP to heather@bookmarkreads.ca. Bookmark’s annual series, Readerity: Readers & Writers on Books & Reading, now in its eighth year, arises from Bookmark’s passion for books and its commitment to promoting books and encouraging reading. Bookmark is honoured to welcome Nova Scotia author Carol Bruneau as this year’s Readerity author with her contribution, Finding One’s Place in the Land of Strange: Carlo Collodi’s The Adventures of Pinocchio: Story of a Puppet. Bruneau’s essay will be preserved in a limited-edition chapbook, which will be given away free at the event. When asked how rereading
Pinocchio for Readerity gave her insight into the social and political times in which we now live, Carol said she had “no idea when she chose to reread Pinocchio that the story would reflect so eerily on conditions now. Social injustice, the suffering of the poor, the immorality of the greedy, the evils of a transactional world rife with grifters—the book has it all, as if tailored for readers in the times we find ourselves in. And yet goodness and love endure, even when at times they feel like feeble flames in the darkness. In Collodi’s story, even the most blockheaded puppet eventually evolves into a human, at the core of whom is a beating, loving heart.” Bruneau is the author of twelve books including four short story collections, one work of nonfiction, and seven novels including her new novel The Little Way. Her novel Brighten the Corner Where You Are: A Novel Inspired by the Life of Maud Lewis, was longlisted for the 2022 International Dublin Literary Award.
Enchanted—A Book Lovers Ball After-hours immersive evening at Charlottetown Library—Oct 3 Enchanted—A Book Lovers Ball will be held at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre in Charlottetown on October 3 at 7:30 pm. The immersive fantasy-themed fundraiser, inspired by the viral TikTok Book Ball trend, invites attendees into a world of magic, romance, and imagination. Guests will dress in formal attire inspired by their favourite romantasy character or create their own unique bookish persona. The evening will include a live DJ, a cash bar, a free photo booth, and a fantasy-themed vendor market featuring local creators from 5–10 pm. A small admission fee will be charged at the door for market-goers who are not
attending the ball. This after-hours library experience is a celebration of the power of stories and the role libraries play in bringing people together. Visit cllcfoundation.ca/bookball for tickets. All proceeds will support the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre Foundation. This is a 19+ event.
NOVEMBER BUZZ DEADLINE Thurs, October 15
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PERFORMANCE music, theatre, dance, comedy...
›› until Oct 26 | select dates
Anne & Gilbert: The Musical Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Mondays | 8:30 pm
Rat Tales Comedy Night Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Oct 7 | 7:30 pm
Island Fringe Festival Launch Party The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Oct 7 | 7:30 pm
Take It To The Limit: The Music & Legacy of The Eagles
Sept 30–Oct 24 | select dates
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Ft. Brielle Ansems, Robin Anne Ettles, Emilea May, and Alicia Toner. Harmony House, Hunter River
Oct 8–11 | various times/locations
Ladies of the Canyon
Oct 1 | 7:30 pm
Grace, 2: Celebrating The Tragically Hip
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Oct 1 | 8 pm
Island Jazz plays Coltrane ft. Michael MacArthur Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Oct 2 | 8 pm
Don Ross and Julie Malia
Island Fringe Festival
Passing the Cold in Montreal. This Town is Small Gallery, Charlottetown Men Love Horsies: The Musical. This Town is Small Gallery, Charlottetown An American (not) in Paris. Black Cultural Society of PEI, Charlottetown White as Snow. The Y-Lofts, Charlottetown This Is Me! The Y-Lofts, Charlottetown Oh, the Man You’ve Become. Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown When There’s Nothing Left to Say. Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown islandfringe.com
Oct 10 | 7:30 pm
Oct 16 | 7 pm
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Eddie May Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre. Red Shores Racetrack & Casino, Charlottetown
Montuno Cubano: Cuban Soul, Maritime Spirit
Oct 10 | 8 pm
Country Boys Tribute Show Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Oct 10 | 9 pm
Oct 16–18
Island Fringe Festival Awards & Closing Party The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Oct 13 | 7 pm
Flashback
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Oct 13 | 7 pm
Where It’s Too Deep To See—A Staged Reading The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Oct 13 | 7:30 pm
Violinist James Ehnes
Oct 3 | 7:30 pm
James Mullinger
Victoria Playhouse, Victoria
Oct 3 | 7:30 pm
Supernaut: Ozzy—Black Sabbath: Back to the Beginning
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Oct 3 | 8 pm
Vintage 4.0: No Skips Dance Party Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Oct 4 | 2 pm
Olivia Blacquiere
Harbour Hall, Borden-Carleton
Oct 4 | 7:30 pm
In Spite of Ourselves: An Evening of John Prine Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Ft. Marcella Richard with Joey Doucette, Jamie Matthews & Kurk Bernard, and more. Village musical acadien, Abram-Village
Oct 16, 23 | 7:30 pm
From Famine to Freedom
Benevolent Irish Society, Charlottetown
Oct 17 | 7 pm
Canadian Pipers and Pipe Tunes: On The Western Front
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
The Mack, Charlottetown
Oct 14 | 7:30 pm
The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
17th Annual Country Music Festival
Oct 14 | 2:30 pm
Oct 8 | 8 pm
Ocean Kin
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Oct 17 | 7:30 pm
Jenny Chen (piano)
Island Jazz Sextet Music ft. Siobhan White
After Hours Band
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Oct 2–3 | 8 pm
Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond
Oct 11 | 8 pm
The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Oct 2 | 8 pm
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Kurk, Joey & Jamie Band Oct 16–17 | 8 pm
Oct 8 | 7:30 pm
David Francey
Oct 16 | 8 pm
Fringe After Dark: Good Ol’ Variety Show
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Peacemaker: Outlaw Country
Rum Running Murders: A Shot in the Dark Dinner Theatre
Steel Recital Hall, Charlottetown
John McDermott: To Remember, To Give Back
God Is A Scottish Drag Queen Oct 17 | 7:30 pm
An Evening with Elvis and the new Blue Suede Band Ft. Jonah Anderson as Elvis. Milton Community Hall, Milton
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Oct 8 | 8 pm
Oct 15 | 7:30 pm
Rose Cousins
Loreena McKennitt: The Mask and The Mirror 30th Anniversary Tour
Oct 18 | 2:30 pm
Fucked Up
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Oct 9 | 7:30 pm
Girls Night Out The Show
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Oct 15 | 8 pm
Oct 9 | 9 pm
Ft. Siobhan White. Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Fringe After Dark: After Nine with Andrea Avery The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Oct 9–11 | 8 pm
Nick Doneff’s 9th Annual Tribute to John Prine Weekend
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Oct 10 | 3 pm
Tunes and Tall Tales
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Island Jazz ft. Nadine Haddad
Oct 15–17 | 7:30 pm
Still Standin’: A Night of Elton John & Billy Joel Craig Fair Productions. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Oct 15, 17, 18 | 7 pm
The Body & The Belvedere Haviland House, Charlottetown
Oct 16 | 6:30 pm
A Great Thanksgiving Show
Central Christian Church, Charlottetown
Oct 17 | 7:30 pm
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
PEI Symphony Orchestra: Belonging 59th season opener. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Oct 18 | 6 pm
Couples Clownselling: Charlottetown
The Comedy Cave, Charlottetown
Oct 18 | 8 pm
Prozzäk
PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown
Oct 18 | 2 pm
Bonshaw Hall Fundraising Ceilidh Bonshaw Hall, Bonshaw
…continued on page 28
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 25
ANCHOR Fest
DANCE
Inaugural event features film, music, comedy and more
Free healthy eating and dance sessions for people aged 55+ take place on the fourth Saturday of each month from 1–5 pm in downtown Charlottetown. Participants prepare and share a healthy meal with a guest chef and learn simple dance steps from a guest dance instructor. No partner is required. Sessions are limited to the first 40 people who RSVP. To receive monthly invitations and updates, email foodexchangepei@ gmail.com. Info: foodexchangepei.com or 902-916-8825
Dancing with the Stars
SUBMITTED
The first annual ANCHOR Fest will be held in Charlottetown from October 14–18. Whether attendees are creative industry professionals, film freaks, music lovers or comedy fans, ANCHOR Fest has something for everyone. Hosted at City Cinema and Tivoli Cinema, ANCHOR Fest’s film program presents highly anticipated movies and hidden gems from across the country, including Gloria Mercer’s A Safe Distance and John Wilson’s strangely touching documentary about the most boring subject possible, The History of Concrete. The Island is on full display on ANCHOR screens with the PEI premieres of Jenna MacMillan’s The Snake (SXSW 2026, Special The Snake recently took home the award for Best Jury Award for Performance) and Atlantic Director (Jenna MacMillan), the Michael Michael Gabriele’s Unholy Night Weir Award for Best Atlantic Screenwriter (2026 Fantasia Film Festival, Gold (Susan Kent), and the Joan Orenstein Award for Audience Award for Best Canadian Outstanding Performance in Acting (Susan Kent) Feature), the world premiere of Eliza at AIFF 2026 in Halifax. Knockwood’s Rite of Passage, and short films from PEI filmmakers will tackle topics like film distribution, Jeremy Thornhill and Trilby Jeeves, co-producing with other provinces, Vanessa Tignanelli, Hélène Lebon, business affairs, film case studies, Justin Rix, Bailey Dockendorff, Eric and more. The conference also offers Cerisano and Dawn Johnson. roundtable meetings with delegates ANCHOR Fest’s music programand casual mixers where local creatives ming showcases some artists from can expand their professional netAtlantic Canada’s underground music works. Industry Conference Passes are scene and beyond. Performers include available for purchase at anchorfest.ca. Captains of Everything (Andy Maize Anchor Fest is run by Anchor and Aaron Comeau of Skydiggers), Motion Picture Alliance (AMPA), a Nick Doneff, Slash Need, Sam O, newly founded not-for-profit orgaPenny & The Pits, Green Eyes Witch nization. In addition to promoting Hands (Evil Twin album release show), and executing the festival, AMPA is a Space Bud, Heavenly Blue, UNCLE, representative and advocacy body for Bilge, Dear Blossom, and Cathedral producers and professionals working Grove. Concerts take place at Trailside in film, television, and digital media Music Hall, Charlottetown Beer on PEI, and is a unified voice for such Garden and Beaconsfield Carriage producers and professionals in indusHouse (all-ages, pay-what-you-can try and policy discussions. punk-rock show). For the full schedule and to buy The festival’s comedy programtickets, visit anchorfest.ca. Follow @ ming spotlights PEI’s rising comedians anchorfest.ca on social media. and national entertainers who straddle the worlds of stand-up, podcasting and film. Hosted at The Arts Guild and The Comedy Cave (downstairs at The Factory), comedy shows include The Big 3 LIVE (Nathan Hare, Sam Burns, Ben Stager), Comedy Album Trial Run with Britt Campbell, Best of Rat Tales and more. ANCHOR Fest’s conference component brings the Canadian creative industry to PEI. Led by some of the country’s most influential industry members, this three-day conference gives local creatives of all career levels the knowledge and connections they need to thrive in PEI’s growing film industry. Panel discussions will take place from 9 am–5 pm at The Arts Guild on October 15, 16 and 17, and
Eat, Move & Groove
Hospice PEI presents its 14th annual Dancing with the Stars at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown on October 24. As Hospice PEI’s signature fundraising event, Dancing with the Stars raises funds to support the compassionate programs and services that Hospice PEI provides for individuals living with life-limiting diagnoses and their families. Ten Star Dancers and their professional dance partners are preparing for an evening of dance performances in support of Hospice PEI. Doors open at 6 pm for a reception featuring appetizers and a cash bar. The show begins at 7 pm. Visit hospicepei. ca or follow Hospice PEI on social media for ticket information. Tickets include a charitable tax receipt.
Irish Set Dancing
Weekly Irish Set Dancing classes take place on Wednesdays from 6:30–8:30 pm at the Benevolent Irish Society Hall, 582 North River Rd, Charlottetown. Classes run from October 7–December 9. There is a small fee per person per class, and dancers of all levels are welcome. Experienced instructors will guide participants through easy-to-learn partner dances. Irish Set Dancing is social dancing to traditional Irish reels, jigs, polkas, and more. Couples and singles are welcome, and instructors will be available to partner with participants. Comfortable clothing and lightweight, smooth sole shoes are recommended. Info/register: fredchorne@gmail.com
Page 26 The BUZZ October 2026
Al Tuck My Blues Away
ANCHOR Fest
September 30–October 6
October 14-18
Music Documentary. Rating TBA. Dir: Brian Harrington, Canada, 2026, 90 min. Al Tuck, Matt Mays, Buck 65, Joel Plaskett.
The direction of Winter of the Crow is topnotch. Kasia Adamik, who grew up in that era in Poland, is revisiting events from her childhood. But she’s brought to it an adult sensibility that is thrilling, deep, and entertaining. She’s made a Cold War thriller for the ages.” —Andy Howell, Film Threat Roving Shows and Island Jazz present:
Winner, Best Feature Documentary, Folkestone Independent Film Awards With a special appearance by Al Tuck on October 2nd
Halloween Silents:
The Haunted House & The Bat Sunday October 25, 4 pm
Welcome to City Cinema from The Charlottetown Film Society City Cinema is owned and operated by our non-profit Society. We welcome donations, and can provide tax receipts. We will continue to present a diverse mix of films and welcome your suggestions and support. Become a member, bring friends, and share feedback!
Advance Tickets Please visit our website at citycinema.ca, we accept all major credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema. Seating may be limited, advance tickets are strongly recommended.
Subject to Change Film availability and showtimes are subject to change. Please check our website and book tickets in advance.
Rent City Cinema City Cinema is available for rent for private film viewings! We provide the projectionist and will have the canteen and bar open for your group. Please check the Venue Rental on our website and send us an email! We’ll respond with information and rates.
A portrait of one of Canada’s greatest but uncelebrated songwriters, Island native Al Tuck. The film follows his journey of wrestling demons, of financial hardship and isolation, and is a moving depiction of a father and loving son. This is a story that offers timely questions: what does it mean to succeed as an artist, and what is art without honesty? Director Brian Harrington spent nearly a decade making this intimate portrait, weaving together Tuck’s songs with reflections from those whose lives and careers he influenced. Tender, honest and deeply rooted in the Maritimes, the film is a celebration of an extraordinary songwriter whose influence has long exceeded his fame.
Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty! October 7—13
Welcome to the first ANCHOR Fest! Anchor Fest (Formerly The Charlottetown Film Festival) is five days of film screenings, concerts, comedy shows, and conference activities spread across downtown Charlottetown. Festival film screenings take place from October 14–18 at City Cinema and Tivoli Cinema. This year features an incredible variety of local, national, and international documentaries, daring genre fare, and compelling dramas. Anchor Fest champions emerging voices, programs exciting new films, and provides rewarding networking opportunities for creatives in the Canadian entertainment industry. We welcome filmmakers, film lovers, and diehard cinephiles to our wide range of screenings, receptions and industry events. Head to www.anchorfest.ca for the full schedule and tickets
$13 $10 $11 $11 (with ID) $9
We now accept credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema
Annual membership - $30.00
Tickets $20 regular, $15 Youth and Students
Winter of the Crow October 19—24 Drama/Thriller. 14A, coarse language, violence. Dir: Kasia Adamik, UK/Poland, 2026, 112 min. Lesley Manville, Melissa Dalton, Rhianne Barreto, Tom Burke. In English and Polish with English subtitles.
Comedy/Drama. Rating TBA. Dir: Josef Kubota Wladyka, US/Japan, 2026, 122 min. Rinko Kikuchi, Alberto Guerra, Alejandro Edda. In Japanese, English, and Spanish with English subtitles. Winner, Sundance Directing Award: U.S. Dramatic
The Haunted House Dir: Buster Keaton & Edward F. Cline, USA, 1921, 21 min. Buster Keaton plays a bank clerk who stumbles into a counterfeiters’ hideout disguised as a haunted mansion. “Stuffed to the gills with ghouls, devils and animated skeletons. Our casually elegant hero is a bank clerk who finds himself lured to a tricked-out house, haunted by Scooby-Doo-style fake spooks” —The British Film Institute
The Bat Dir: Roland West, USA, 1926, 86 min.
Admission Regular Member 65 and over Student 14 and under
With Live Improvised Musical Accompaniment by DotDotDash
“The rumba, the cha-cha and the tango help bring a widow out of mourning in this surprisingly buoyant, unsentimental film about grief. Rinko Kikuchi is affecting and funny as Haru, a middle-aged woman with an unstylish mop of curls, wearing heavy blue eyeshadow and spangly dresses when she and her Mexican husband, Luis, enter ballroom dance competitions in Tokyo. When Luis dies suddenly, Haru hides away until her sister drags her out to a dance class and she finds that her new instructor, Fedir, is irresistible. Director Josef Kubota Wladyka shifts from poignant emotion to comedy to surreal scenes that take us inside Haru’s fantasies just as gracefully as the dialogue shifts from Japanese to Spanish and English. Ha-chan, Shake Your Booty! — the title, cringey though it may sound, is knowingly ironic in context — is a small delight.” —Caryn James, The Hollywood Reporter
“Winter of the Crow is a fascinating, smart Cold War thriller… Lesley Manville (Phantom Thread, The Crown) plays Professor Joan Andrews, a British professor who comes to Poland in the mid-80s to give a lecture… The next morning, her world is turned upside down as martial law is declared, tanks invade, and her hosts are nowhere to be found. She witnesses a political murder and is forced to go on the run in the brutal winter, without speaking the language, and with no one to turn to for help… I’m far more interested in spy movies where the intrigue, deception, and double-crossing are the focus, where the hero never quite knows who their friends are, or exactly how they are going to survive. Winter of the Crow is closest to that sophisticated version of the genre, but takes it up a notch… With women in all writing roles, as director, and serving as the two leads, the result is a fresh and authentic take. It is something we’ve never quite seen before on screen, and it breathes new life into a venerable genre…
The Bat is a stylish mystery‑comedy hybrid with shadowy mansions, masked criminals, and atmospheric thrills. The title character was one of Bob Kane’s inspirations for Batman! “The film is a visual feast, and it’s no wonder — the cinematographer was Arthur Edeson, who would go on to shoot Frankenstein, The Maltese Falcon, and Casablanca, and he was assisted by future Citizen Kane groundbreaker Gregg Toland.” —IndieWire
The Silence of the Lambs October 25, 28 & 31 Thriller/Horror. 14A, strong violence, coarse language, disturbing content. Dir: Jonathan Demme, US, 1991, 118 min. Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn. Academy Award Winner for Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, and Screenplay (Open Captions - Oct 31, 1 pm show) “Agent Clarice Starling assists in the hunt for a brutal killer… Hoping to gain some insight into the killer’s mind, she visits the notorious psychiatrist and serial killer Hannibal ‘The Cannibal’ Lecter in prison. His dazzling intellect and psychopathic nature both messes with her head and leads her on the path to
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 27
city cinema schedule SEPTEMBER 30 Wed 7:00 Al Tuck My Blues Away
OCTOBER success. Of course, while the character of Lecter was the crowd-pleaser, the heart of this genuinely chilling movie lies with Foster... Her encounters with Anthony Hopkins are among the most compelling in recent cinematic history. Director Demme too, should be commended for his restraint when it comes to the violence, choosing to focus on faces and suggestion rather than actual gore. That said, this is a bloody tale, with a finale that’ll make you think twice about entering a dark room without a sturdy weapon to defend yourself. Nonetheless, the superb acting, memorable characters, and riveting story should have you hooked.” –Ben Falk, BBC
Candyman (1992) October 26 & 30 Horror. 14A, strong violence, coarse language. Dir: Bernard Rose, US, 1992, 99 min. Virginia Madsen, Xander Berkeley, Tony Todd.
leaving behind grieving lovers and their broken dreams but returned to their hometown as wealthy men with violent reputations… They purchase an abandoned millhouse and turn it into a backwoods juke joint… A lot happens in Sinners even before a lot happens, but when the music kicks in and the joint starts hopping, all hell breaks loose… Coogler has created a gothic horror musical epic, with encompassing detail, unearthly magic, and historic accuracy. A bombastic meditation on race, freedom, confinement and the magical, sinful, erotic release that can only come from music. Sinners is a movie to see again and again and again. And then, go see it with friends. And that’s all that needs to be said.” —Thom Ernst, Original Cin
October 27 & 31 Drama/Horror. 14A, brutal violence, sexual content. Dir: Ryan Coogler, US, 2025, 137 min. Michael B. Jordan, Jack O’Connell, Hailee Steinfeld. Winner of 4 Academy Awards including Best Actor, Screenplay, and Score “Sinners needs no more than a one-word review; Stunning. Magical also works. So does unforgettable. Sinners is one of the most entertaining surprises to arrive in theatres in a long time. Coogler’s film is intellectually stimulating, with an open narrative and a rambling pleasure… The story takes audiences back to Mississippi, circa 1932. Slavery is made unconstitutional, but segregation remains the norm. For the notorious Smokestack twins, Elijah ‘Smoke’ and Elias ‘Stack’ freedom is a word without meaning. The brothers, both World War I veterans, high-tailed it to Chicago
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Horror/Thriller. 14A, coarse language, frightening scenes. Dir: Damian McCarthy, Ireland, 2026, 107 min. Adam Scott, Peter Coonan, David Wilmot, Florence Ordesh.
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Sponsored by The Benevolent Irish Society
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2:00 Winter of the Crow
October 29—31
Sinners
Thu
7:00 Al Tuck My Blues Away
Hokum
“This unnerving chiller combines modern social issues and the legend of a slave’s murdered son, as Virginia Madsen’s student project turns an urban myth into terrifying reality. Tony Todd’s hook-handed ghost will linger long in your memory.” —Tom Folley, Radio Times (UK) “This is intelligent, challenging horror, and boasts a fantastic Philip Glass score.” —Empire “What I liked was a horror movie that was scaring me with ideas and gore, instead of simply with gore.” —Roger Ebert. “high-caliber horror in its purest, most primal form.” —The Hollywood Reporter
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7:00 Winter of the Crow
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4:00 Roving Shows 7:00 Silence of the Lambs
“Adam Scott plays Ohm Bauman, a cynical, embittered author… On a whim, he leaves his palatial modern manse in Washington state and heads out to Ireland, to the very hotel his late parents enjoyed their honeymoon. As Damian McCarthy‘s film is a proper Irish horror story, there’s a witch, a cynic and a drunk involved. Once at the dark, drab place... one of the attendants suddenly goes missing, shortly after helping Ohm in a deeply affecting way, and he feels obliged to get to the bottom of her case, even as Cob, a local vagabond with an illustrious past, convinces him she’s been murdered… McCarthy‘s film is a taut, well apportioned horror flick with genuine spooks aplenty… Much of the film feels appropriately closed in and claustrophobic - it’s the kind of movie where the frame remains resolutely dark and macabre no matter how many lights are turned on - and it has just enough psychological depth (and sense of humor) to keep things popping. I would not suggest watching it alone.” —Piers Marchant, Cinemotic
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4:00 Hokum 7:00 Sinners
Be sure to follow us on our social media pages for up-to-date reminders and updates to our schedule. Email info@citycinema.ca to sign up for our newsletter and stay in the know with all the goings on!
citycinema.ca
Page 28 The BUZZ October 2026
PERFORMANCE music, theatre, dance, comedy... …continued from page 24 Oct 19 | 7:30 pm
Relive the Music 50s, 60s, 70s Show Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Oct 21 | 8 pm
Classic Albums Live: Supertramp—Breakfast in America
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Oct 25 | 7:30 pm
The Barra MacNeils
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Oct 29 | 8 pm
Nov 8 | 7:30 pm
Ft. Thane Dunn. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Oct 29 | 8 pm
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Elvis in Concert
Oct 24 | 7 pm
Voices of the Island: A PEI Choral Celebration Ft. Sirens and Harmonia choirs, along with choirs from across PEI. Park Royal United, Charlottetown
Oct 24 | 7:30 pm
Echoes: Willie Nelson
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Please Laugh! A Comedy Show Ft. Jesse Boutin, Andrea Avery, Shawn Aucoin, and host Liv Howlett. The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Oct 29–31 | 8 pm
Life in the Fast Lane: A Night of the Eagles
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Oct 24 | 7:30 pm
Oct 30 | 7:30 pm
Oct 22 | 8 pm
Ft. Bob Wiseman and Mike Boguski. Souris Show Hall, Souris
Shane Pendergast Album Release Show
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Oct 22 | 8 pm
Island Jazz ft. Frank Whitty with Chris Martell Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Two Pianos, No Rodeo
Oct 24 | 7:30 pm
Gypsy
Tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Oct 24 | 8 pm
Popalopalots: Live Improv Theatre
Oct 23 | 7:30 pm
The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Jason Cyrus Live: Beyond Limits Hypnosis Show
Oct 24 | 8 pm
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Oct 23 | 7:30 pm
Brooke and Brad: Country Classics
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Oct 23 | 8 pm
The Fabulously Rich
Tribute to The Tragically Hip. PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown
Oct 24 | 8 pm
Whose Line Is It Anyway? PEI Edition
Ft. Jalen MacLeod and friends. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jimmy Rankin: Song Dog 25th Anniversary Tour
Oct 24 | 8 pm
Oct 23 | 8:07 pm
Oct 25 | 2 pm
PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown
@fter eight: A Comedy Game Show With Andrea Avery. The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Oct 23–24 | 8 pm
Matt Minglewood Band
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Oct 24 | 6 pm
Hospice PEI: Dancing with the Stars Fundraiser Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
With special guests The Ellis Family Band. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Island Reggae Jazz ft. Maya Marquez
Craig Fair Productions. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
The Sheepdogs
Flu Fighters
Oct 24 | 7 pm
Ft. Nudie. Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague
Oct 22 | 8 pm
Nov 7 | 7:30 pm
Michael Myers Band
Stompin’ Tom Centre, Skinners Pond
The Island Jubilee Old Time Radio Music Show Tribute Series Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Oct 25 | 2 pm
Fiddlers’ Sons
St. Andrew’s United, Vernon Bridge
Oct 25 | 7 pm
Spook Organa! Ft. members of the Royal Canadian College of Organists. St. Peter’s Cathedral, Charlottetown
Mysteries of the Keyhole House
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Oct 30 | 9 pm
Charlottetown Burlesque Halloween Party The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Nov 1 | 7 pm
Kyla Cobbler: Gone Rogue
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Nov 4 | 8 pm
Raine Maida & Chantal Kreviazuk
I’m Going to Break Your Heart Tour. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Nov 4 | 8 pm
Jake Vaadeland & The Sturgeon River Boys
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 5 | 8 pm
Garrett Mason
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 7 | 7 pm
Islander Showdown
Live Taping. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 7 | 7 pm
Luminos Ensemble: Last Letter Home St. Paul’s, Charlottetown
Nov 7 | 7:30 pm
Men of the Deeps: Diamond Sunset Tour 2026 Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
The Coldplay Show: Ultimate Hits Experience
Nov 10 | 8 pm
Witching Hour—An Improvised One-Act Play The Arts Guild, Charlottetown
Nov 10 | 8 pm
Hawksley Workman
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 12 | 7:30 pm
George Canyon & Aaron Pritchett: A Cowboy Christmas 2
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Nov 13 | 7:30 pm
Tulua
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Nov 13 | 8 pm
Dennis Ellsworth
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 14 | 4:30 pm
Richard Wood: Celtic Rhythms in Motion
New London Community Complex, New London
Nov 14 | 8 pm
Mike Greenwood
Maxout Life Tour. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 15 | 2:30 pm
PEI Symphony Orchestra: Revolution
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Nov 18, 20
Lennie Gallant: The Innkeeper’s Christmas
Nov 18, 7:30 pm: Souris Show Hall, Souris Nov 20, 7:30 pm: Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
…more at buzzpei.com
20th Pumpkin Festival Fall tradition in Summerside—Oct 15 to 30 The Summerside Pumpkin Festival returns for its 20th edition from October 15–30. Organized by La Belle-Alliance and supported by numerous partners, the festival has become a beloved fall tradition for Summerside residents and visitors alike, offering a variety of activities for all ages and interests. The annual celebration of the fall season highlights the magic of pumpkins with a host of fun activities for families, foodies, music lovers, and fall enthusiasts. The 2026 program includes the Historic Ghostwalk organized by Culture Summerside, storytime presented in partnership with the J.-Henri-Blanchard Library and la Fédération des parents de l’Î.-P.-É.,
creative workshops, immersive games, themed evenings, concerts, cooking workshops, and pumpkin decorating activities. Music at the Summerset and Wedgewood manors and art activities at the J.-Henri-Blanchard Library are also part of the festivities. The Summerside Pumpkin Festival showcases the culture, creativity, and diversity of Summerside’s Francophone and Francophile community. Since 2007, it has brought residents and visitors together to celebrate the beauty and richness of fall on PEI while promoting local pride. To view the complete program and reserve spots for activities, visit belle-alliance.ca.
SCREEN
PEI Fight for Affordable Housing screenings
Al Tuck My Blues Away: screening + Q&A
Al Tuck My Blues Away, directed, produced, and shot by Irish-Canadian filmmaker Brian Harrington, will screen at City Cinema in Charlottetown from September 30–October 6. A special in-person Q&A with Al Tuck and Brian Harrington will follow the October 2 screening. Al Tuck has spent decades on the margins of the mainstream, crafting deeply human songs from his home on PEI. The 90-minute film features moving and insightful interviews with Amelia Curran, Catherine MacLellan, Matt Mays, Jason Collett, and Joel Plaskett, and more. For tickets, visit citycinema.ca.
Monday Matinee series
The free monthly Monday Matinee series continues at the Summerside Library with a screening of Downton Abbey: A New Era (G) on October 5 at 2 pm.
Free screenings at the Charlottetown Library
Free screenings are offered at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. The Afternoon Movie Club continues with Crimson Peak (2015) on October 6 at 1 pm. On October 13, join the Anime Club (18+) at 6 pm to watch and discuss two episodes, with titles chosen at the start of each meeting and changing monthly. Families can enjoy popcorn and a screening of Monster’s Inc. on October 25 at 1 pm. On October 26, step back in time with the library’s new Classic Movie Club, featuring It Happened One Night (1934) at 7 pm. On October 30, teens can enjoy an afterhours movie with pizza and popcorn at 5:30 pm. Enter through the back doors between 5:15–5:30 pm. Intermission includes a pizza break.
Academic and filmmaker Brian Doucette will join PEI Fight for Affordable Housing virtually for two screenings of his documentary, Thinking Beyond the Market. Screenings take place at 6 pm in the Family Room of the Summerside Library on October 13 and in the auditorium of the Charlottetown Library on October 14. The film takes viewers across Canada to explore policies, programs, and projects already making a positive impact on the housing crisis, including some filmed on PEI. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. All are welcome.
Sidelined: The Colour of the Game
Island athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, facility operators, and fans are invited to a free screening of Sidelined: The Colour of the Game at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown on October 20 at 7 pm. The 45-minute documentary explores the systemic barriers faced by First Nations, Métis, Inuit, Black, racialized, and religious minority participants in Canadian sport. Following the screening, a local panel will discuss the film’s main themes and share their thoughts on how to build a more inclusive sport system on PEI. The documentary was produced by AntiRacism in Sport Canada. The event is hosted by Recreation PEI, Sport PEI, and the Holland College Sport & Recreation Management program. For tickets, visit recreationpei.ca/news_article/sidelined.
Book vs. Movie Club
The Book vs. Movie Club launches at the Charlottetown Library this month. Participants are invited to read Stephen King’s Misery in October before attending a screening of the film adaptation on November 3 at 6 pm. A group discussion about the book and film will follow the screening. Copies of the book are available at the library. Everyone is welcome.
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COMMUNITY #1 Week Without Driving PEI
What would change in someone’s life if driving wasn’t an option? Does an errand or a doctor’s appointment become a full-day commitment? Does a job become a question of access, not ability? For those who can drive and have access to a car, these questions might be answered quickly and simply. But these questions reveal how often we assume everyone drives. That assumption reveals who has access and who gets left out. When someone doesn’t drive, everything becomes a negotiation between time, money, energy, and distance, with tradeoffs affecting what they can do and access. From October 1–8, participants can take part in the Week Without Driving campaign, help spread the word, and share their experiences using the hashtag #WWDPEI and tagging @ TransitMattersCharlottetown and @ WeekWithoutDriving to show what transportation access really looks like on PEI. Learn more at transitmatterschtown. ca/wwd2026.
Peace talk + screening
The Island Peace Committee will host members of Nova Scotia Voice of Women for Peace (NSVOW) for a Peace Talk on October 28 at 6 pm at the Charlottetown Library Auditorium. Through conversation and collaboration, the groups hope to connect peace advocates and inspire collective action. NSVOW organizes Peace Walks and art installations promoting peace. The 2025 Peace Walk commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings with an 80 km walk. Participants carried an inspirational letter from Hiroshima survivor Setsuko Thurlow. Her story is woven throughout Walking with Setsuko, a documentary by filmmaker and NSVOW member Ann Verrall. The film features reflections from a school principal and a puzzle created by youth group Black Girl Magic in Truro, NS. Through the film, Verrall aims to deliver a message of hope and a call to action. A screening of the film will accompany the Peace Talk. The Island Peace Committee encourages Islanders to join the discussion on how to collectively work for peace on PEI. Everyone is welcome. Info: 902-330-2248.
Psychic & Holistic Wellness Fair
The seventh annual Psychic & Holistic Wellness Fair, presented by Events Holistic, offers an opportunity to explore personal wellness while connecting with local practitioners, readers, and wellness providers. The event runs over two weekends, October 2–4 and October 23–25, at the Carrefour de l’IsleSaint-Jean in Charlottetown. The fair is open Friday from 5–9 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9 am–5 pm. The fair encourages visitors to take charge of their own wellness and learn about holistic and complementary practices, including energy healing, meditation, mindfulness,
intuitive practices, relaxation techniques, and other approaches that focus on nurturing mind, body, and spirit. The fair is intended to complement—not replace— professional medical or mental health care. Visitors are encouraged to make informed decisions and seek qualified health professionals when appropriate. The event is open to everyone. For event details, appointments, and vendor opportunities, visit psychicwellnessfair.com.
Life After High School presentations
Local career advisor and youth career expert Devon Turcotte is offering a Life After High School presentation at the Stratford Emergency Services Centre on October 18 at 2:30 pm and at Trinity United in Charlottetown on October 26 at 4 pm. Turcotte will debunk myths about career decisions and provide practical tips on how to figure out what to do when high schoolers have no idea what they want to be when they grow up. The 90-minute session is aimed at high school students who are stressing out about their futures and guardians who want to help them navigate career decisions. Visit careerified.ca/life-after-high-school for more information and to register.
inadmissible; when to request that IRCC reconsider a negative immigration decision; the process, procedure, and scope of a judicial review of a negative immigration decision before the Federal Court; and representing oneself before immigration tribunals, such as the Immigration Appeal Division. To register, visit forms. cloud.microsoft/r/qM01zgyhr6.
Free Strong Start playgroups at Chances
Chances is offering free playgroups on weekdays for children ages 0–6 in Charlottetown, Cornwall, and Stratford. Caregivers and their children can join Chances staff for activities, sensory experiences, and play while building a sense of connectedness and community. Registration is required. Info/register: chancesfamily.ca
Teen advisory group
Teens are welcome to join the teen advisory group on Mondays at 3:30 pm at the Summerside Library. Meetings start with an opportunity for teens to share their voices and opinions, followed by a chance to assist staff with various tasks. Participation allows teens to earn volunteer hours toward the Community Service Bursary.
Community Legal Info presentation & webinar
Applications are open for the 2026–2027 Anti-Racism Grants, with a total of $275,000 in funding available. The grant program supports large-scale projects that help address systemic racism, strengthen organizations, improve knowledge of racial unfairness, and create real, measurable change in PEI. Applications will be accepted until midnight on October 23. Visit Anti-Racism Grants at princeedwardisland.ca for eligibility requirements and to apply.
Community Legal Information (CLI) is launching a free online presentation to help Islanders representing themselves in family court on PEI. The presentation explains out-of-court options, the steps involved in taking legal action, going to court, and the legal processes. CLI is also hosting a live webinar with lawyer Greg Collins of Collins Law Office for people going to family court without a lawyer. The webinar will provide helpful information and include a Q&A session where participants can ask the lawyer questions. Find the presentation on legalinfopei.ca/videos or register for the webinar at legalinfopei.ca/events.
Seniors Cafés
PROBUS PEI Club
Anti-Racism Grants applications open
Seniors Cafés take place at both the Charlottetown and Summerside libraries and offer welcoming spaces for conversation, refreshments, and community connection. In Summerside, the next café takes place on October 9 at 11 am. Attendees can enjoy tea or coffee and a friendly discussion. In Charlottetown, the next café takes place on October 21 at 1 pm. This session will feature a cooking demonstration with Margaret Prouse.
Free immigration advocacy legal information session
Lawyers Chera-Lee Gomez and Charlotte Sullivan will present a free legal information session on immigration advocacy at the Charlottetown Library on October 20 from 6–8 pm. Attendees will learn about strategies for preserving, restoring, or regaining immigration status in Canada. Topics include: legal rights when interacting with CBSA; applying for a Temporary Resident Permit when
The PROBUS PEI Club meets on the third Thursday of each month at the West Royalty Community Centre. The next meeting will be held on October 15 at 10 am. The guest speaker will be Mary Gallant of Glenaladale Estate. The PROBUS PEI Club is a group of retired or semi-retired professionals who meet for fellowship and friendship. All are welcome. 1 Kirkdale Rd, Charlottetown.
Feedback wanted on annual minimum wage review
Islanders are invited to provide feedback as part of the Employment Standards Board’s annual minimum wage review. Under the Employment Standards Act, the board reviews the minimum wage each year and recommends future rates to government based on economic conditions and public feedback. Written submissions can be mailed by October 30 to the Employment Standards Board, Atlantic Technology Centre, PO Box
2000, 176 Great George St, Suite 306, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4K9, or emailed to labourrelations@gov.pe.ca with “Minimum Wage Review Feedback” in the subject line. Those who provide written submissions may also request to make a presentation by emailing labourrelations@gov.pe.ca or calling 902-3685550. PEI’s minimum wage is currently $17 per hour and will increase to $17.30 on October 1 and $17.60 on April 1, 2027. Info: princeedwardisland.ca
SAF’Île AGM
The Société acadienne et francophone de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard (SAF’Île) will hold its annual general meeting at 9 am on October 24 at the Pavillon de l’Est in Rollo Bay. Everyone is welcome. Register by October 11 at safile.org. The AGM is an opportunity to take stock of the past year, share upcoming priorities, and come together for exchanges essential to the vitality of the Acadian and francophone community. The day includes a business meeting of SAF’Île and the Fondation SSTA, a presentation by Professor François Larocque, and exchanges on the directions for modernizing the French Language Services Act, followed by a meal and awards presentation. The directions presented will chart the path forward but will not be final. The community will have further opportunities to comment on and enrich the process before it takes shape.
Online registry for tradespeople
An online registry of skilled tradespeople has been launched by the PEI government to make it easier for employers to verify credentials and support labour mobility across the country. The online registry will help employers, contractors, and homeowners verify whether a person holds a PEI Certificate of Qualification or Red Seal endorsement and identify the trade in which they are certified. Searches can be done using identifying information such as a name and certification number. While apprenticeship and trade certification credentials have traditionally been verified through provincial apprenticeship offices, the self-service tool provides immediate access to credential information, reducing administrative steps for workers, employers, and industry partners. Visit the Credential Verification Registry at princeedwardisland.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 has a public blog, a private discussion forum, private chat functionality, and links to their social media. PEI Autistic Adults was started by an autistic senior and currently has over 200 members ranging from students to seniors. Those who wish to participate in meetings but do not wish to interact online can email peiautisticadults@gmail. com. The group is not affiliated with any organization. Info: peiautisticadults.com
Haunting experiences
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Halloween-inspired activities ...if you dare... The Ghost Tour Confederation Centre of the Arts Heritage Players Until November 7
The Confederation Centre of the Arts Heritage Players walking Ghost Tour continues in downtown Charlottetown. Led by costumed heritage actors, these immersive experiences blend Canadian history, cultural landmarks, and local lore. The Ghost Tour ventures into Charlottetown’s shadowy past with spooky tales and eerie atmosphere. This tour runs through November 7, with a special Spooky Walk on Halloween. For the full schedule and to book tickets, visit confederationcentre.com or call the box office at 1-800-565-0278.
Historic Ghostwalk Culture Summerside October 15 The streets of Summerside will come alive with tales from the past as Culture Summerside presents its 26th Annual Historic Ghostwalk on October 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Beginning at the MacNaught History Centre & Archives (75 Spring Street), guided tours will depart every ten minutes, leading participants through stories of Island history’s darker side. Volunteer actors, portraying restless spirits, will recount true tales steeped in mystery, folklore, and the spirit of Halloween. After the walk, visitors can warm up with a cup of hot apple grog. Admission is free for children six and under. To secure a time slot, attendees should pre-purchase tickets online at culturesummerside.com or in person at the MacNaught History Centre. The event runs rain or shine, except in cases of severe weather. For more information, call 902-432-1332.
Beaconsfield by Candlelight PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation October 16–November 13 (select dates) The PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation invites visitors to experience Beaconsfield Historic House in Charlottetown as the sun goes down and the shadows grow long. The Foundation is offering intimate visits of the house that explore the more macabre side of Victorian life (and death). Visitors will hear local tales of 19th-century true crime, peer into Beaconsfield Historic House’s darkest corners, and meet the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation’s most haunted artifact, Wheelie. Doors open at 5 pm, with the event running from 5:30–6:30 pm on October 16, 17, 20, 23, 24, 27 and 30, and November 3, 6, 7, 10 and 13. Tickets are available online through Locarius.io. For more information, visit peimuseum.ca.
Halloween Hauntacular Orwell Corner Historic Village October 25 The PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation and Orwell Corner Historic Village will host its annual Kids’ Halloween Hauntacular on October 25 from 1–3 pm. The family-friendly event will feature trick-or-treating throughout the decorated historic village, along with magic potion classes, ghost stories, lawn games, a scavenger hunt, wagon rides, blacksmithing demonstrations, and more. Children are encouraged to wear costumes and bring their own bags or buckets for collecting candy. Tickets are available online through Locarius.io. For more information, visit peimuseum.ca.
Heritage Awards2027 Nominate a Heritage Hero Today!
TO SUBMIT A NOMINATION Please scan the QR code below, or visit www.peimuseum.ca For more information, call us at (902) 368-6600.
NOMINATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED FROM OCTOBER 5 TO NOVEMBER 27, 2026
HERITAGE TOURS
GHOST TO UR S LED BY THE MYSTERIOUS GRAVEDIGGER
NOW UNTIL NOVEMBER
SCAN TO BOOK
This spooky stroll is full of tales about Charlottetown’s historic downtown and its dark, mysterious, sometimes haunted past. A family-friendly experience is available on request.
Cold & Flu Season Help protect yourself and others this respiratory virus season.
Get your flu and COVID-19 vaccines Stay home when you’re sick Clean your hands Cough/sneeze into a tissue or your elbow Book your vaccine appointment today with your pharmacist, doctor, nurse practitioner, or Public Health Nursing.
PrinceEdwardIsland.ca/Flu This advertisement is paid for by the Government of Prince Edward Island
Haviland Club transition A new chapter for the historic Charlottetown property The historic Haviland House property is entering a new chapter with the transition from the Haviland Club to the Esther Lowden Heritage Trust. Built in 1869 by Esther Lowden, Haviland House has witnessed generations of change in Charlottetown. Its rooms and architectural details provide a tangible connection to the city’s past, but the people who occupied those rooms—and the stories that unfolded within them—are what give the house its character. The Trust is being established to ensure the long-term preservation and public enjoyment of the historic house while also celebrating the remarkable woman who built it. Esther Lowden was an early female entrepreneur in pre-Confederation Prince Edward Island, and her story provides a fascinating lens through which to explore Charlottetown’s social, economic and cultural history. Under the new Trust, the house will continue to be preserved as a heritage property while becoming increasingly accessible as a place for community events, educational activities, performances and experiences that bring history to life. The goal is not simply to preserve an old building, but to ensure that it remains a living part of the community. The Esther Lowden Heritage Trust hopes to build on the house’s history by offering programming that appeals to residents and visitors alike, from heritage tours and teas to theatrical
FOOD & DRINK The Parish Perk Neighbourhood Cafe
The Parish Perk Cafe runs on Wednesdays from 11 am–2 pm at St. John’s Anglican Church. There will be coffee, tea, sweets, socializing with neighbours and friends, and perhaps a game of cribbage. All are welcome. 62 South Dr, St. Eleanor’s.
Fall Harvest Suppers
A fundraiser in support of Farmers Helping Farmers will take place at The Mill in New Glasgow.Chef Emily Wells and the team at The Mill will prepare a three-course meal, with seatings at 5 pm and 7:30 pm on October 9 and 10. To purchase tickets, book a table, and see the menu, visit themillinnewglasgow.com
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The historic Haviland House
performances, community events and staged historical experiences. One example is the popular Tea & Tales, launched in May 2026 to commemorate the 190th anniversary of the birth of Esther Lowden. The series has welcomed visitors to Haviland House for afternoons of tea, conversation and storytelling, and will continue through the end of October. For reservations, call 902-316-3844. That same philosophy is at the heart of The Body & the Belvedere, a murder mystery playing October 15, 17, and 18. Although the murder is fictional, the setting, characters and social world of the play draw audiences into the atmosphere of 19th-century Charlottetown. For tickets, visit havilandclub.com/tickets. Together, these experiences reflect the Trust’s broader vision: to use the house as a setting for heritage interpretation, community gatherings, learning opportunities and historical storytelling.
Trinity United Roast Beef Take-Out
Trinity United in Charlottetown will hold its Roast Beef Take-Out Dinner fundraiser on October 24. The menu includes roast beef with all the fixings and cake for dessert. Tickets must be purchased in advance by visiting the church office at 220 Richmond St, emailing trinitycliftonunitedchurch@gmail. com, or calling 902-892-4114. Dinners can be picked up from 4:30–5:30 pm at the Sydney St door.
Eat, Move & Groove
Free healthy eating and dance sessions for people aged 55+ take place on the fourth Saturday of each month from 1–5 pm in downtown Charlottetown. Participants prepare and share a healthy meal with a guest chef and learn simple dance steps from a guest dance instructor. No partner is required. Sessions are limited to the first 40 people who RSVP. To receive monthly invitations and updates, email foodexchangepei@ gmail.com. Info: foodexchangepei.com or 902-916-8825
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The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson
Contentment
GAMES Charlottetown Scrabble Club
The Charlottetown Scrabble Club meets on Mondays from 5–8 pm at the Charlottetown Library. Enjoy the game, make new friends, and maybe win a prize. Free to join, all skill levels welcome.
Community Events October 15 - 16
Summerside Duplicate Bridge Club
The Summerside Duplicate Bridge Club holds three ACBL-sanctioned games of Duplicate Bridge weekly at 1 West Dr, Summerside. Games are held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:45 pm, and Fridays at 9 am. New and experienced players are welcome. The Club is also offering a series of weekly beginner bridge lessons on Monday mornings this fall. Info: bridgesummerside@gmail.com
When you drive to town over the big hill, past the house that’s been for sale all summer and the real estate sign that proclaims “Water View,” just as you’re starting down into the valley you find yourself pulling up to stare at a flock of sheep in the pasture on the left. No one around here keeps that many sheep, and the thing is, the sheep are always in a different place. And they look so content. Everyone in the Cove is dying of curiosity, including me, so I take it upon myself to pay shepherd/ farmer Joel Hamming a visit. We meet at his parents’ farm behind a grove of trees and some silos: I didn’t know the house and barns were even there! The young farmer (and family, he and his wife have four girls aged ten and under) lives at the top of another big hill. Joel’s sheep are a fast-growing breed called Rideau developed by Agriculture Canada in the 1960s: genuine Canadian sheep. There are 120 ewes and 220 lambs on the hillside and another 400 ewes in the barns. The magic fencing that keeps the sheep enclosed is called “flock netting” and consists of woven plastic strands supported by fiberglass posts. Electricity runs through wires woven into the horizontal strands, and since wool is an insulator sheep only get shocked if they touch their noses to the wire. Using two sets of this flock netting (each set enclosing an area 50 metres x 50 metres or ¼ of a hectare) the shepherd rotates his flock every day to a new area of the field so the sheep are always grazing on fresh grass. They prefer an area of the field where they dine on leaves of “hodge podge”: a mixture of turnip, radish, peas, brassicas and grains. Variety is the spice of life, even for sheep!
I ask: Can’t coyotes break down the netting? Probably, but there is one indispensible ingredient in this operation: two Great Pyrenees dogs that live with the sheep and simply adore guarding them. It’s what they were born to do. At one year old they weigh 80 lb. and are just getting started. Coyotes don’t mess with them! We chat about silage, drought, soil health, the challenge of keeping young people on the land… then I thank Joel and head home. Stopping to take a few photos of the sheep, my eyes are drawn to a large inert ball of white fur: a dead lamb? Then slowly, slowly the head of a sheepdog rises out of the white ball and looks at me, not threateningly, but like “I won’t charge you for taking my picture if you stay on your side of the fence.” Okay! Minutes later Joel arrives and steps into the field with a bag of dry dog food. A second dog appears out of nowhere and the two dogs leap up on their master affectionately, wagging their tails as they pounce on their yummy kibbles. The shepherd checks his flock, nods approvingly and heads back down the hill. In this wonderful relationship between people, animals and the earth, everyone is content.
Cornwall Run Club Wednesday social runs The Cornwall Run Club meets on Wednesdays at 6 pm for a social run (approximately 5 km) that starts and ends at Village Green Brewery, 30 Church St, Cornwall. Runners of all abilities are welcome. Join the Facebook group @cornwallrunclub for updates.
Scottish Culture Days
October 24 PEI Scottish Highland Games Heavy Events Clinic
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October 29 Caledonia Club Social @ Cruinnich Cafe
Summerside Scrabble Club
The Summerside Scrabble Club will meet on October 7 and 21 at the Summerside Library at 2 pm. Grab some tiles and use your vocabulary to chat and rake in the points on the board.
Crokinole
Drop in to play crokinole on October 14 and 28 at 2 pm at the Summerside Rotary Library.
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October 31 Family Costume Cèilidh Halloween Afternoon In Mt. Stewart
Board Game Café
November 6-8
Bring family and friends for an evening of board games at the Summerside Rotary Library on October 26 at 6:30 pm. Bring your own or play one from the library’s collection.
Here We Go Barn Dance Listeners’ Room 51 Fiddles Concert Trad Sessions
Eptek Scavenger Hunt
Visitors of all ages are invited to test their skills by trying to find all 20 images at the Eptek Art & Culture Centre’s scavenger hunt. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
Teen Things
Each month, teens can check out the Summerside Library’s weekly Would You Rather poll, book display, and a couple activities centered around a specific theme. This month’s theme is ‘Witches’ and the activity is a scavenger hunt.
November 21 St. Andrew’s Dinner
Follow Us For Event Info & Ticket Details @glenaladalepei www.glenaladalepei.com email: info@glenaladalepei.com
Page 34 The BUZZ October 2026
COMMUNITY #2 PEI Shoreline Management Plan information sessions
The We6 Planning Group and CBCL are hosting three public information sessions on the draft shoreline management plans for southeastern PEI that have been developed on behalf of the Government of PEI. Sessions will take place from 6–8 pm at the PEI Farm Centre in Charlottetown on October 19, the Cavendish Wellness Centre in Montague on October 20, and Plough the Waves Hall in Wood Islands on October 21. The sessions will include a presentation and a chance to provide feedback on the draft plans and on local community priorities. Info: peishorelines.ca
Dental Plan information sessions
Free information sessions about the Canadian Dental Plan will be held at the Charlottetown and Summerside libraries this month. In Charlottetown, the session takes place on October 8 at 10:30 am. Angie McCarthy from Service Canada will provide an overview of the program, answer questions, and offer assistance with dental care plan applications. The session in Summerside takes place on October 14 at 10 am. Attendees will learn about eligibility, how to apply, what services are offered under the plan, and what clients need to do to have their coverage renewed on an annual basis.
The digital side of dying
Trish MacLeod, a licensed Willow End-of-Life Educator, is giving a free talk “What happens to your phone when you die?” at the Charlottetown Library on October 15 at 6:30 pm. This talk covers the digital side of dying that most planning conversations skip—the thousands of photos on a phone, the Facebook account, the banking apps and passwords. Attendees will learn what happens to major accounts after someone dies and what options families have for dealing with them, as well as two useful things they can set up on their own phone by the end of the presentation.
K&K Quality Care day program
K&K Quality Care is a day program dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities in a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment. Through engaging activities, social opportunities, and personalized support, the program focuses on helping individuals reach their full potential at their own pace. The goal is to help each person build confidence, develop life skills, and create meaningful connections within the community. Whether it’s learning new skills, making friendships, or simply enjoying the day, the program aims to offer everyone the opportunity to grow, feel valued, and be part of something meaningful. Info: kandkqualitycare@ gmail.com, 902-367-5496
Aging in Place workshops
A free, nurse-led workshop series designed for seniors, families, caregivers, and anyone planning ahead for aging in place will be held at the Summerside and Charlottetown libraries this month. Sessions in Summerside are held on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm. Sessions in Charlottetown are held on Wednesdays at 11 am. Through four consecutive sessions, each workshop offers trusted, easy-to-understand guidance to help participants feel more prepared. Every workshop focuses on education, awareness, and practical next steps, and includes a free takeaway resource. Together, these sessions equip Islanders with the essential knowledge needed to navigate aging in place with confidence. Call the library at 902-436-7323 to register.
Community fridges
Betty Begg-Brooks of Gifts From The Heart manages three community fridges, located at 10 Maple Hills Ave, Charlottetown, the West Royalty Community Centre, and the Stratford No Frills parking lot. Food donations can be dropped off weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm at any of the three locations. Training is provided for new volunteers, with shifts running from 9 am–1 pm or 1–5 pm. Monetary and food donations are also accepted during the week at 10 Maple Hills Ave. For after-hours drop-offs, to volunteer, or to register as a client, call Betty at 902-393-0171.
Seniors TechNTalk
A Seniors TechNTalk session will be held at the Charlottetown Library on October 27 at 10 am. Seniors aged 55 and over interested in learning more about using their cellphone, tablet, or laptop can join the Office of Seniors for an overview on electronic device usage and some oneon-one help. Be sure to bring your device and charger. Register at seniors@gov. pe.ca or call 902-218-2051.
PEI Group Meditation
PEI Group Meditation sessions take place bi-monthly on Mondays at PEERS Alliance (250b Queen St), Charlottetown. The next sessions are October 12 and 26 from 7–8 pm. The guided sessions will be led by facilitators Susan Rutherford and Michael Gaudet, experienced mindfulness educators, and are open to individuals of all experience levels who would like to learn the benefits of the skill. Participants are encouraged to dress comfortably and bring items such as cushions for floor seating; chairs will be available. The gathering aims to create an inclusive space where secular, spiritual, and religious meditators can practice together, build community, and learn from each other. For more information or to inquire about accessibility needs, contact Susana at firehorsestudios66@gmail.com or Michael at michaelgaudet53@gmail.com, and follow @ PEIGroupMeditationEvent on FB.
Seniors Navigator
The Seniors Navigator will be at the Charlottetown Library on October 7 and 21 from 9:30 am–3:30 pm for drop-in assistance. The program helps seniors access services and programs offered by community organizations and all levels of government.
Christmas House Tours
This season, the Christmas House Tours fundraiser will be held on December 5 from 1–5 pm. Visit some homes decorated for Christmas in Stratford to raise funds for the Stratfords of the World Committee, which will be entertaining delegates from the Stratfords in Ontario, Connecticut, the UK, New Zealand, and Australia in September 2027. Info/tickets: dxcampbell@live.ca, 902-628-5625
Lunch and Learn: La Leche League PEI
La Leche League PEI is offering a free, drop-in Lunch and Learn program for people who are pregnant or nursing. The next session takes place on October 13 at 12 noon at the Gentle Beginnings Prenatal Centre, 17B Alley St, Charlottetown. Breastfeeding-related support and information will be provided by an accredited La Leche League leader, and there will be a variety of lunch foods. Registration is required. Info/register: gentlebeginnings.ca/ events.
ADHD PEI
A monthly discussion for those interested in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is held at the Charlottetown Library. The next meeting is October 14 at 7 pm. This supportive space allows peers to share experiences, seek advice, and connect with others who understand the challenges of living with ADHD.
Brain Injury Association of PEI Support Group
The Brain Injury Association of PEI meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month in Unit 101 at Canada House, 293 Allen St, Charlottetown. Contact Patty Noonan at noonans@eastlink.ca for more information.
Tech Help Sessions
Digital literacy sessions are offered at the Summerside and Charlottetown libraries this month. In Charlottetown, drop-in tech help is available on weekdays at 2 pm. Bring in electronic gadgets and questions. In Summerside, individuals can get one-on-one help with basic technology, including device setup, email, downloading apps, and storage questions, on Thursdays at 3 pm. To register, call 902-436-7323.
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. The next meetings are October 6 and 20 at 6 pm. Each meeting offers an opportunity to participate in youth-led discussions and fun activities. 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. All are welcome.
Teen Volunteer & Leadership Club Teens interested in learning about volunteering and leadership can join the weekly Volunteer and Leadership Club in the Board Room at the Charlottetown Library on Thursdays from 3:30–5 pm, beginning October 8. This program is run by the Boys & Girls Club.
PEI Sociable Singles
PEI Sociable Singles is a social group for members aged 50 and over that meets on Tuesdays at 7 pm at the Hillsborough Community Centre in Charlottetown. This is not a dating group—just friends getting together for meals, dances, outings, screenings, and games. Become a trial member and attend any activities for four weeks before deciding to join. After that, membership is paid annually and members can attend as many activities as they wish. If interested in attending a Tuesday meet-and-greet, drop in or email sociable_singles@yahoo.com.
EAL Conversation Circles
The Immigrant & Refugee Services Association of PEI offers an EAL conversation circle for adults this month at the Summerside Library on Mondays at 6 pm. Conversation circles are also offered this month at the Charlottetown Library: Thursdays at 6:30 pm and Saturdays at 10 am. Adults looking to improve their English skills are welcome to join for informal conversation. Registration is not required.
Scottish Cultural Days Two-day event at Glenaladale Schoolhouse—Oct 15 & 16 Scottish dance, song, music, and history will take centre stage at the annual Scottish Cultural Days, running October 15 and 16 at the Glenaladale Schoolhouse. The two-day event will explore Scottish cultural traditions, including the history of musical instruments and the story of Dr. Roddie MacDonald of St. Peters Bay, presented by Myrna Babineau and Aggi-Rose Reddin. The Glenaladale Schoolhouse is located at 257 Blooming Point Road (Route 218), Tracadie Cross. For more information, visit glenaladalepei.com or email info@glenaladalepei.com.
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Island Lecture Series The Island Lecture Series presents a talk by Billy Johnson,“Arthur Huff Fauset’s Folklore from Nova Scotia and the Idea of Modern Canada,” on October 20 at 7 pm, in the Faculty Lounge, Main Building Room 201, at UPEI. Published in 1931, Arthur H. Fauset’s Folklore from Nova Scotia was the first scholarly collection of folktales in Canada and the only substantial collection of Black Canadian folklore in the 20th century. Largely overlooked in its time, the book’s significance goes beyond its having been the first and only collection of its kind. By illuminating the rich folk culture of Black Nova Scotia, Fauset challenged dominant assumptions about whose stories were worthy of preservation, and he unsettled the myths that folklorists told themselves about the people and places they studied. Assistant Professor Billy Johnson joined the English Department at the University of Prince Edward Island in July 2026. He is the author of Publishing Place: Transatlantic Modernity and Periodical Culture on Canada’s East Coast (McGill-Queen’s UP 2025), which
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First offering of the academic year—Oct 20
Billy Johnson
was awarded the 2026 Clio Atlantic Prize for Best Book. His research spans Atlantic Canadian literature, Canadian publishing history, and Black Canadian culture in the 19th and 20th centuries. The lecture is free, and all are welcome. For more information, contact Bren Simmers at 902-566-0386 or ispstaff@upei.ca.
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From Famine to Freedom Irish emigration through songs, stories and images The Benevolent Irish Society of PEI presents From Famine to Freedom: A Musical & Storytelling Journey, a unique and engaging presentation weaving the saga of Irish emigration through stories, songs, and images. From the laments of the oppressed through to the ringing cries for freedom, the audience will be moved by the story of the Irish people, from their homeland as the famine raged through Ireland to their newfound homes here and abroad. Although the first Irish came to Canada more than two centuries ago, the year 1847 was particularly significant for Irish emigration. This fall, in advance of the 180th anniversary of this flood of Irish to Canada and areas around the world, there will be a commemorative multimedia presentation developed by Mike Lonergan and hosted by the Benevolent Irish Society (BIS) at the Irish Hall in Charlottetown. The presentation will feature Jim, Laura, and Paddy Farrell, well-known on PEI as Guinness. From Famine to Freedom performances take place on October 16 and October 23, from 7:30–10 pm. Charlottetown was the destination
point for a famine ship called the Lady Constable, which left Liverpool on April 24, 1847, with 444 Irish people desperate to escape the famine. During the four-week journey, 25 people died of typhus and were buried at sea. Thirty more people died after they disembarked from the ship and are buried in the historic Roman Catholic Cemetery on St. Peter’s Road in Charlottetown. In 2010, the BIS erected a monument to those who died as a result of the journey. The story of Irish emigration, interpreted through songs and pictures, promises to prompt a full range of emotions. The sad history in the first half of the show will be balanced by the lively second half of the performance. Guinness have a rousing list of songs to round out each evening. Mike Lonergan will be joining the group for some of the songs. Doors open at 6:30 pm, with the performance starting at 7:30 pm. There will be a tea break at 8:45 pm. Tickets can be purchased online via locarius. io. For more information, contact Kathy Roney at 902-314-8840 or roneykathy@gmail.com.
Eastern PEI Dirt Road Rally Off-road and red-dirt road fun with guided and self-guided rides The Eastern PEI Dirt Road Rally returns October 16–18 with its largest expansion yet—celebrating PEI’s safe off-road adventure and red-dirt roads, strengthening rural tourism, and supporting small businesses across Eastern PEI. Online registration is open through the newly unveiled bilingual website, dirtroadrally.com, which offers riders streamlined registration, full event details, and direct access to Ride PEI for comprehensive off-roading information across the Island. The 2026 rally continues its commitment to community well-being and trail sustainability. Funds raised will support ongoing maintenance of the Eastern Kings and Queens East ATV Club trail systems, while also contributing to health initiatives through The Kidney Foundation of Canada (Atlantic). Riders will have access to hundreds of kilometres of marked ATV routes, including select one-day-only trail openings exclusive to registered participants. The new English/French website provides updated maps, safety guidelines, and a central hub for rally announcements.
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The weekend kicks off Friday evening with registration and entertainment, followed by two full days of guided and self-guided rides, food vendors, local businesses, and community celebrations. Families, seasoned riders, and newcomers are all encouraged to participate. With limited spaces available, riders from PEI, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and beyond are encouraged to register. Trail permits are available through Ride PEI at ridepei.ca.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 37
The Nature of PEI by Gary Schneider
Welcoming biodiversity Biodiversity is a commonly used but often misunderstood term these days. Prince Edward Island has hosted a series of BioBlitzes over the past few years, using citizen scientists to better understand what species of flora and fauna are present. The Island Nature Trust recently hosted presentations on the topic in their workshop entitled Voices for Biodiversity. And for over three decades, the Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project has championed the idea as a way of restoring forest resilience and improving wildlife habitat.
You might wonder why adding invasives or non-native plants was ever considered to be a part of improving biodiversity. It all come back to those dreaded numbers—the idea that the more species that are present, the better the biodiversity. Fiona taught us many lessons regarding our forests, but we haven’t taken them all to heart. When I saw Red Pine plantations where most of the trees were snapped off, or sections of Eastern Larch plantations that had blown over, or old field White Spruce stands that were uprooted, I thought these lessons would be hard to ignore. Yet we’re still carrying out much the same plantings and using much the same harvesting techniques. I often relate my experience with Trembling Aspen when I am giving talks on wildlife enhancement or forest restoration. Many decades ago, when I was treeplanting for the province, our crew would come across stands of Trembling Aspen that had been cut to make way for supposedly high-value conifer plantations. The aspen didn’t fit into the Spruce-Fir-Pine category of graded lumber and had little economic value. Yet the fast-growing aspens often were the first wildlife trees to emerge in the area, providing homes for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. The soft wood was easily turned into nesting cavities. Ironically, it took TV personality Martha Stewart to change the fate of this tree. She decided that the trim in
PHOTOS COURTESY MACPHAIL WOODS
As I’ve written before, biodiversity is not about numbers. If it were, then a park full of invasive species such as Glossy Buckthorn, Japanese Knotweed, and Norway Maple could be viewed as a clear winner. Unfortunately, these species aggressively outcompete many species of native plants that are wellsuited to the growing conditions. Trembling Aspen
houses should be painted instead of being stained wood. Aspen wood is quite white, often has few knots, and readily takes paint. It became the magic bullet and soon what was seen as a “waste” wood now had more value than the wood grown in plantations. There are three aspens native to the province, with Trembling Aspen being the most common. Its leaves rattle in the slightest breeze. It has little structural strength and so its uses are limited as a building material. Still, it has great value as a wildlife tree and provides homes for everything from boreal chickadees to barred owls. It is an early successional species that grows well in full sun and spreads clonally through its roots. Often a single tree will colonize a field if mowing doesn’t occur. Large-toothed Aspen is actually a more beautiful tree to my eyes. It tends to grow tall and very straight, losing its lower limbs quite early. Like the Trembling Aspen, this relative is also well-named, as the leaves have large teeth around their entire edges. Less common is the Balsam Poplar, which tends to be found in the western parts of the province. Its pointed leaves are shiny and long, with sticky buds that have a pleasant fragrance. When growing in suitable conditions, all three aspens have roles to play in maintaining diversity within Prince Edward Island forests.
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Nature PEI is hosting two public events this month from 10 am–1 pm to celebrate the Fall Continental Mycoblitz (and collect valuable citizen science mushroom data). On October 3, Rosemary Curley will lead an all-ages Mushroom Hunt at Trout River Riparian Zone Natural Area in Carleton. On October 10, Ken Sanderson will lead a blitz of Strathgartney Provincial Park. After an introduction, participants will spread out to different trails and habitats in the area to collect various mushrooms in a sustainable manner, then reconvene to go over what was found. Advance registration is required by emailing ken@hoperiver.ca. Info: naturepei.ca, mushroomsofpei.ca
PEI Untamed with Kate MacQuarrie
Learn, explore, and reconnect with nature with Kate MacQuarrie of PEI Untamed. Upcoming sessions include Sharing the Field in New Glasgow on October 3, a Natural History Walk in North Rustico on October 14, and an Intro to Fungi Walk in Bonshaw on October 17. Visit pei-untamed.com for registration details and new original content about plants, fungi, and wildlife.
Nature PEI Meeting: Birding in Colombia
Nature PEI will host its next meeting at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown on October 6, starting at 7:30 pm. After a short meeting to share nature sightings and a quick raffle break, guest speaker Jeanne Maki will give a presentation titled “Colombia Birds 2026—City Parks, High Mountains, the Magdalena River and El Encanto Nature Reserve” about her recent travels. The illustrated talk will feature detailed photography and commentary from the experienced birder and traveller. Nature PEI meetings are free, and all ages are welcome. Meetings will be livestreamed on the Nature PEI Facebook page. The next public meeting will be November 3. Info: naturepei.ca
Royal Canadian College of Organists—Oct 25
60th birthday party at The Arts Guild—Oct 22
YAH Artistic Producer Catherine O’Brien
Catherine O’Brien, Artistic Producer of Young at Heart Theatre, is turning 60, and to celebrate, she is throwing a fundraising party from 7–10 pm on October 22 at The Arts Guild in Charlottetown. Evening highlights include karaoke and a silent auction. PEI’s live karaoke band, Take The Mic, will give attendees the opportunity to sing live with their own back-up band. Take The Mic—Todd MacLean, Liam Kearney, Adam MacGregor, and Deryl Gallant—accepts song requests in advance at takethemicband.ca/ songlist.html, or party attendees can sign up on the spot. The silent auction will feature experiential prizes, including golf passes, dinner packages, theatre tickets, and a unique home concert and dinner party hosted by O’Brien, PEI singer-songwriter Kelley Mooney, and Island funny-man Wade Lynch. Seating is limited. Tickets can be purchased online via locarius.io and theguildpei.com. The proceeds from this event will go to Young at Heart Theatre’s upcoming production, An Intergenerational Celebration of Island Stories. This new show will tour PEI long-term and community care facilities, hospitals, and small halls in the spring of 2027. Visit yahtheatre.com to learn more.
The link between organ music and Hallowe’en has been a long-standing tradition. Whether it be phantoms haunting the crypts of the Paris opera house, vampires lurking in cobwebbed castles, or ghostly apparitions floating eerily throughout gothic mansions, such images in classic films are often accompanied by spooky organ music emanating from somewhere beyond those stone walls. This tradition of scary Hallowe’en music will be celebrated on October 25 at St. Peter’s Cathedral on All Soul’s Lane in Charlottetown, when members of the Royal Canadian College of Organists present Spook Organa!, an evening of spooky organ music for all ages. This family-friendly program will feature such classics as “Night on Bald Mountain” (Mussorgsky), “Toccata & Fugue in D minor” (Bach), and, of course, music from The Phantom of the Opera (Webber). Between the musical selections, creepy tales guaranteed to
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Nature PEI: Fall Continental Mycoblitzes
Spook Organa
Young at Heart fundraiser
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NATURE
make the hair stand on end will be told. The one-hour program starts at 7 pm. Admission is by donation, with proceeds supporting the Dr. Alan Reesor Memorial Scholarship, a fund that encourages young musicians to take up the pipe organ by offering them an initial term of free organ lessons. Children 12 and under are asked to bring along a canned good for the food bank. Those who arrive in costume will receive a complimentary treat bag.
Last Letter Home
A collective remembrance with Luminos Ensemble Luminos Ensemble, an East Coast Music Award-winning professional choir, will open its 10th anniversary season on November 7 at 7:30 pm with Last Letter Home. The remarkably moving concert offers Island audiences a unique experience of remembrance at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown. Last Letter Home will feature musical settings of the poems and letters of people who have served on the front lines of conflict. Taking the famous poem “In Flanders Fields” as a starting point, the Ensemble will give voice and pay tribute to the experiences of soldiers serving in both past and modern wars. Other texts include poems about
the experiences of Canadian soldiers at Passchendaele, the final letter home of a US private killed in action in Iraq, and a meditation by the last soldier to leave the battlefield at Gallipoli. The performance will culminate with Herbert Howells’ virtuosic Requiem for unaccompanied double choir, composed in memory of those who died in World War I. Luminos Ensemble invites Island audiences to step away from the noise of daily life and experience the unfiltered, moving power of 16 voices raised in song. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit luminosensemble.com.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 39
Talking from Experiences by Ashleigh Tremere
Capturing nature ASHLEIGH TREMERE
ANTI-RACISM GRANTS
Last Saturday, we finally saw the sun again. I’m being dramatic, but shortsighted human that I am, recent years’ scorching, drought-inducing temperatures had become commonplace. This summer was lush, green and wet. Very tropical rainforest, minus the tropical. Planning an outdoor event came with a lot of crossed fingers, pivots and efforts to make the best of it. The weather had no objections, though, and was perfectly suited for a plein air painting event like what was to be this year’s Rooted in Art, an initiative of the City of Charlottetown. Carrying my just-in-case sweater, I sauntered towards Victoria Park, determined to spend as many minutes as possible with my body in sunshine. The knowledge that this could be the last kiss of summer’s warmth felt certain as the slow breeze held a distinct scent of autumn in its edges. I heard the projected voice of the announcer before the peaks of a large white tent appeared over the hedges surrounding Governor’s House. Set back in the first open field, all facing the same vantage point, are the eight main artists competing in the event. Loose but continuous crowds move peacefully amongst the painters. It’s a stark contrast to every other live art competition I’ve ever attended. I’m thrilled to not be milling in circles among close-quartered, loud throngs of people. Conversations are quiet and observational, with the chillest classic rock playlist playing at the perfect ambient decibel. Rooted in Art has traditionally featured installation-based pieces pertaining to specific trees in some way. They were exhibited for two weeks for the public to view at any point, with specifically timed talks from the artists that you could attend. It had an overwhelming number of applicants each year, or so says my last rejection letter. Similarly, local painters applied in droves, with 34 applicants to this year’s shifted format
and medium. I inquired about the decision for this change, and a member at the event offered that it was ‘an opportunity for the office to work with a different style of artist.’ The event was, by all my measures, a delightful success; however, with the range of our Island’s artistic talent, I do lament that this was instead of the original format rather than in addition to it—though I understand the desire for variety.
Non-profit and charitable organizations are invited to apply for the Anti-Racism Grants, which support the development and delivery of anti-racism activities that benefit racialized and Indigenous communities in PEI. Your project must align with one or more of the following goals: Making changes to policies, practices, governance and organizational structures to remove barriers and address systemic racism. Strengthening the ability of organizations and public institutions to advance anti-racism efforts. Empowering BIPOC communities by building partnerships, advocating for change and leading community-led research.
Project proposals will be accepted until October 23, 2026.
An open table of art supplies was set up for all who decided to partake in some creativity in the moment, and a community call, Anything Grows, attracted other local artists to set their sights on this painting challenge. There is something intrinsically human about multiple individuals all looking at the same landscape and then creating it in such diverse manners. I rested beneath a shedding oak’s canopy, sitting amongst the green acorns strewn on the ground, contemplating who planted those trees everyone was painting. Meanwhile, the fungus-riddled Norway maple prematurely withered just behind me in this neatly planted edge. Soon the three local judges would award the City’s prizes. All winners’ and participants’ works can be found on the City of Charlottetown’s website and will be displayed at their office downtown.
PrinceEdwardIsland.ca/AntiRacismGrants Ad paid for by the Government of Prince Edward Island.
Page 40 The BUZZ October 2026
50th birthday recital tour at Sobey Family Theatre—Oct 13
2026-27 concert season announced
Violin master James Ehnes brings his 50th birthday recital tour to the Sobey Family Theatre in Charlottetown on October 13. Showtime is 7:30 pm. James Ehnes has established himself as one of the most sought-after musicians on the international stage. Gifted with a rare combination of virtuosity, lyricism and musicality, Ehnes is a favourite guest at the world’s most celebrated concert halls. A devoted chamber musician, Ehnes is the Artistic Director of the Seattle Chamber Music Society and the leader of the Ehnes Quartet. As a recitalist, he performs regularly at Wigmore Hall, Carnegie Hall, Symphony Center Chicago, Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Verbier Festival, Dresden Music Festival and Festival de Pâques in Aix. Ehnes has an extensive discography and has won many awards for his recordings, including two Grammys,
Sirens Choral Association has announced its 2026–27 concert season, a year of music exploring the many ways singing can build connection. The season brings together Sirens and Harmonia Youth Choir for five concerts at Park Royal United in Charlottetown. The concerts move from celebration and imagination to environmental reflection and the beauty of music shared together. Led by Kelsea McLean, artistic director of Sirens Choral Association, the season opens with Voices of the Island: A PEI Choral Celebration on October 24 at 7 pm. Voices of the Island will bring together choirs from across the province with Sirens and Harmonia, celebrating PEI’s vibrant choral community and the many voices and musical traditions that make it unique. While participating choirs may differ in style, age, and membership, they share a common love of singing and the experience of creating music together. On December 12 at 7 pm, Park Royal United, Sirens, and Harmonia present Glow, a festive celebration of the holiday season. The concert will bring together carols, Christmas favourites, and unexpected seasonal gems. On February 27 at 7:30 pm, Sirens presents Unsung: If the Earth Could Sing, an exploration of the beauty, fragility, and changing face of the planet. Featuring Katerina Gimon’s
three Gramophone Awards, and twelve JUNO Awards, the most of any classical musician in history. In 2021, he was named Artist of the Year at the Gramophone Awards. Ehnes plays the “Marsick” Stradivarius of 1715. Visit confederationcentre.com to purchase tickets.
Join the chorus PEISO seeking singers for its 60th anniversary celebration The PEI Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) is inviting Island singers to join a community choir for a special performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony in celebration of its 60th anniversary. The concert will take place on May 15, 2027, at St. Dunstan’s Basilica in Charlottetown. This performance of Beethoven’s celebrated “Ode to Joy” will be a true community event, bringing together up to 80 singers from across the Island. No auditions are required. To register, singers simply need to complete an online form and upload a video recording of themselves singing “O Canada,” and demonstrate their highest and lowest sounds to assist with vocal placement. Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony was
ANDREA ELLIS
Sirens and Harmonia
BEN EALOVEGA
James Ehnes
Sirens choral group
five-movement work Unsung: If the Earth Could Sing, alongside music by Imogen Heap and The Wailin’ Jennys, the concert invites audiences to reflect on humanity’s relationship with the natural world while considering where hope might still be found. Harmonia Youth Choir closes its season with Once Upon a Song on May 7 at 7 pm. The concert brings beloved tales, characters, legends, and adventures to life through music and celebrates another season of singing together. Sirens concludes the 2026–27 season with Golden Hour on June 5 at 7:30 pm and June 6 at 3 pm (location to be announced). This collection of warm and familiar choral gems invites audiences to slow down, be present, and discover the beauty that can emerge when we take a moment to truly listen. Visit sirenschoir.com for tickets and more information.
his final composition and is often performed to mark special occasions. It is considered one of the cornerstones of orchestral music and it was the first time that a major composer scored vocal parts in a symphony. The final fourth movement, “Ode to Joy,” will feature soprano Christina Haldane, mezzo soprano Hannah O’Donnell, tenor Jacques Arsenault, and baritone Nathan Keoughan, alongside the community choir. PEISO is collaborating with Leo Marchildon, music director and organist at St. Dunstan’s Basilica, who will lead the choir. Singers will receive materials and online resources to prepare over the winter. Rehearsals will take place at St. Dunstan’s on Wednesday evenings, from March 31 and through April, with four final rehearsals in May. Interested Islanders should complete the online registration form at peisymphony.com and upload their video by November 2. Participation will be confirmed by mid-November.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 41
Belonging PEI Symphony opener for new Discover series
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The PEI Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) will open its 2026–27 season on October 18 with Belonging, a concert featuring a solo performance of Khachaturian’s virtuosic “Flute Concerto” by acclaimed local flautist Morgan Saulnier and an interactive performance that invites audience members to become part of the orchestra in Eric Whitacre’s “Deep Field.” The concert launches Discover, PEISO’s new four-year artistic arc reflecting the stories that have knit Canada together and continue to define its identity. The 2026–27 season, Our Story, marks the first chapter in that journey. “I envision transforming the orchestra into a prism: reconciling the past, challenging the present, and imagining the future of Canada through music,” says PEISO music director Jaelem Bhate of the new PEISO’s principal flautist Morgan Saulnier (above) four-year Discover series. “Each and Julie Pellissier-Lush season will take on a new question and theme, a musical path to the opportunity to become part of discovery through civic discourse and the orchestra during Eric Whitacre’s conversation. I believe that the PEI “Deep Field,” an interactive work that Symphony Orchestra has a unique transforms smartphones into musical opportunity to be recognized as a instruments. Audience members can musical thought leader in Canada, participate by downloading the Deep employing music to connect, engage, Field app for iPhone or Google Play in and unite communities.” advance. Inspired by the 1995 Hubble Taking place at Confederation Deep Field image, the Deep Field app Centre of the Arts, Belonging will feaintegrates electronica and a virtual ture Saulnier, PEISO’s principal flauchoir of over 8000 voices from 120 tist, performing Aram Khachaturian’s countries with the live orchestra and “Flute Concerto.” Originally comchorus during performances. During posed as a violin concerto and later the performance, audience members adapted for flute, the work combines can have their smartphones nearby soaring melodies and rhythmic vitality and wait for the conductor’s instrucwith formidable technical demands on tion to participate in a unique musical the soloist. experience that creates a special feeling A familiar presence in PEI’s music of belonging. Finally, Cecilia Livingston’s “Leap community, Saulnier teaches at UPEI of the Heart,” originally written for and serves as associate music director the Toronto Symphony Orchestra to of Craig Fair Productions. She also celebrate Canada’s sesquicentennial, collaborates regularly with instrumensets the stage for Laura Sgroi and talists, vocalists, choirs, theatre producRebecca Thomas to explore Canada’s tions and emerging artists throughout history of colonization and the hope Atlantic Canada. of reconciliation in “We’re Not Done “Having performed for many years Drumming,” a work where beat as a member of the PEI Symphony poetry meets the orchestra. PEI’s forOrchestra, it is incredibly meaningful mer poet laureate Julie Pellissier-Lush to be featured as soloist, and have the will perform the text. opportunity to collaborate with my Belonging promises an impactful colleagues in this different role,” says opening to the PEISO season. Together, Saulnier. “I’m very excited to work the works ask audiences to consider with Jaelem Bhate and experience his belonging from multiple perspectives: musical leadership from a different to an orchestra, to an audience, to a perspective. This concerto is a lot of community, and to a country whose fun—and a lot of work! It is a wonderstory continues to be written. fully expressive and virtuosic piece Season subscriptions and single that I believe the audience will love. tickets are available at confederaIt’s filled with character, energy, and tioncentre.com or by calling 902-566some really powerful moments.” 1267 or 1-800-565-0278. For more In a new digital twist on syminformation, visit peisymphony.com. phonic music, the audience will have
ONGOING MUSIC ceilidhs, dances, series, sessions...
Blues Jam
The Blues Jam with the Plain Dirty Blues band takes place on the last Saturday of each month from 5:30–8 pm at Baba’s Lounge. The next jam is October 31. Admission is by donation. Follow Plain Dirty Blues Band on FB for updates. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Ceilidh in the City
The 16th season of Ceilidh in the City continues on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm at the Jack Blanchard Centre in Charlottetown. The upcoming lineup features a Harvest Shanty Shaker with The Chaisson Trio on October 7, a Country Legends Tribute Show with Larry Campbell & Blake Crockett on October 14, an Island Hoedown with Colleen MacPhee & Blair Coughlin on October 21, a Halloween Rock ‘n’ Roll Ceilidh with Todd MacLean & Mike McGarry on October 28, and an Acadian Kitchen Party with Louise Arsenault & Jonny Ray Arsenault on November 4. A weekly 50/50 draw supports local charities. Bar service is available, and the venue is air-conditioned. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Admission is at the door (cash only).
Got Blues Matinee
Got Blues, led by Chris Roumbanis with friends Mike Robicheau and Alan Dowling, returns to Trailside Music Hall for weekly Saturday matinees from 1–3 pm. 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 performance dates are October 3 with Jeff Coates (QC) on guitar/vocals; October 10 with Theresa Malenfant (NB) on vocals; October 17 with Shirley Jackson (NS) on vocals/sax; October 24 with Arthur P. Coleman on guitar/vocals & Don Hill (NS) on guitar; and the Annual Halloween Bash on October 31 with Davis Ward on guitar/vocals. 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Friday Nights with Nudie
Nudie Plays Country Sh*t at Village Green Brewery on Fridays in October (2, 9, and 16) from 6–8 pm. This is a paywhat-you-can event. Space is limited. 30 Church St, Cornwall.
Island Jazz
Jazz on Thursdays at Baba’s Lounge features top local musicians performing original music, standards, jazz and pop favourites. Each show features a different group and two sets starting at 8 pm. The upcoming lineup includes Island Jazz plays Coltrane featuring Michael MacArthur (ON) on October 1; Island Jazz Sextet Music featuring Siobhan White on October 8; Nadine Haddad on October 15; Ryan Whitty with Chris Martell on October 22; and Island Reggae Jazz featuring Maya Marquez on October 29. Admission is by donation. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Lot 7 Ceilidh
The Lot 7 ceilidh will close out its 26th season at St. Mark’s Hall on October 1 at 7 pm, featuring Michael Pendergast and Leon Gallant. Lunch will be provided at intermission. The hall is wheelchair-accessible and air-conditioned. Rte. 14, Burton.
Schooner Sessions
Sessions with Mark Douglas and friends take place weekly on Thursdays at 7 pm at The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Summerside Kitchen Party
A matinee kitchen party featuring classic country and old rock ‘n’ roll with Back in Tyme (Blair Coughlin, Peter Burke, George MacPhee and Bob Gagnon) takes place at the Summerside Legion on Saturdays, October 10, 17, 24, and 31, from 2–5 pm. Admission is at the door. 340 Notre Dame St., Summerside.
Sunday Session
An afternoon Tune Session featuring traditional music and craic takes place on Sundays from 2–4 pm at The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Trad Night at Village Green
Trad Night is held every Thursday in the taproom at Village Green, PEI’s smallest brewery. Enjoy live traditional Irish music with no cover charge from 7–9 pm. Space is limited. Located at 30 Church St, Cornwall.
Winsloe United Ceilidh
Fundraising ceilidhs take place at Winsloe United on Sundays at 2 pm. On October 4, host Jacinta MacDonald and the Winsloe United House Band will share the stage with guest duo Brian Langille and Roberta Smith and Colleen MacPhee. On October 18, Jacinta MacDonald and the House Band welcome guests Crystal Paynter and Larry Campbell. The church is wheelchair accessible, and a light lunch will be served at intermission. Admission is at the door, which opens at 1:30 pm. 121 Winsloe Rd, Winsloe.
Bonshaw Ceilidh Bonshaw Hall fundraiser featuring local talent—Oct 18 A fundraising ceilidh for the Bonshaw Hall will be held on October 18 at 2 pm. The special afternoon ceilidh will be held in honour of the late Ruth Lacey. Local talent will deliver music, stories, comedy, poetry and dance. Fall bulbs for spring blooms will be gifted to attendees. Admission is free for children under 12. Bonshaw Hall is located at 9 Green Rd, Bonshaw.
The Barra MacNeils Cape Breton traditional music at Kings Playhouse The Barra MacNeils bring their internationally-renowned live show to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on October 25 at 7:30 pm. Cape Breton-based family group The Barra MacNeils has been thrilling audiences of all ages with their repertoire, vocals, instrumental prowess, and showmanship. Hailing from Sydney Mines, Cape Breton, the band is widely regarded as one of the greatest live acts in the Celtic world. Since their 1986 debut, siblings Lucy, Boyd, Stewart, Kyle, and Sheumas have forged a four-decade legacy as Canada’s premier musical ambassadors, deeply rooted in the dance, language, and storytelling of their heritage. Their performances feature seamless sibling harmonies and proficiency on a wide array of acoustic, stringed, and wind instruments. From haunting Gaelic ballads to high-energy step dancing, they transform every
Fiddlers’ Sons Fundraising concert at St. Andrew’s United—Oct 25 Island folk music group Fiddlers’ Sons will play a fundraising concert at 2 pm on October 25 at St. Andrew’s United, 7679 Route 1, Vernon Bridge. Fiddlers’ Sons host the popular Close to the Ground concert series and have played countless festivals and events over their decades of performing.
Celtic Rhythms in Motion The rich tradition and evolving styles of Island dance Richard Wood’s Celtic Rhythms in Motion returns to the New London Community Complex, 10227 Route 6, on November 14 at 4:30 pm. Now in its second year, the show brings internationally acclaimed PEI fiddler Richard Wood together with six dancers/dance troupes, showcasing the rich tradition and evolving styles of Island dance. Launched in 2025, the show celebrates a relationship that has existed
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concert into a captivating journey through an ancient culture. Celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2026, this year’s performances offer an intimate, heartfelt reflection on their career, featuring hidden gems from their 17 critically acclaimed recordings. Tickets are available at kingsplayhouse.com or by calling 1-888-346-5666.
The band features singer-songwriter and local author Eddy Quinn, songwriter and guitarist John B. Webster, multi-instrumentalist Keelin Wedge, and fiddler Fiona MacCorquodale. Together, they will perform songs and share stories from their recent recordings, along with some popular requests and lively fiddle tunes. Cookies, homemade fudge and water will be available for purchase, along with CDs and books from the musicians. All ages are welcome. For advance tickets and more information, call Dorothy Drake at 902-6295561 or Ronnie Drake at 902-394-2738.
for generations—the fiddle and the dancing it inspires. With Wood’s signature high-energy fiddle performance at its heart, the afternoon will feature dancers and dance troupes, each bringing their own style and personality to the stage. For Wood, the concept is especially meaningful. Before he ever picked up a fiddle, he got his start as a dancer, and step dancing has remained an integral part of his performances throughout his more than three-decade career. Doors open at 4 pm. Advance tickets are available online. Follow the link at rwood.ca/events. Any remaining seats will be available at the door. For more information, email richardwoodlive@hotmail.com or call/text 902-330-3293.
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Brand-new Elvis
“FLASHBACK” FROM LAS VEGAS TO SUMMERSIDE
Thane Dunn presents final show in Charlottetown—Oct 24
DEVON BOURQUE
Two-time World Champion Elvis tribute artist Thane Dunn is returning to the Sobey Family Theatre at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown on October 24 for one last time, featuring a brand-new show, brand-new suits, a new powerhouse band, and fresh song arrangements. This new production just sold out the Imperial Theatre and is widely said to be his best show yet. Known worldwide as one of the best Elvis tributes, Dunn captures the look, sound, and moves of the late Presley. His authenticity has earned him endorsements from legendary artists who Thane Dunn’s Elvis at Imperial Theatre actually worked with the King. Bill Baize of J.D. Sumner screen-accurate replica suits, and a and the Stamps Quartet, who toured young local fan won an authentic directly with Elvis, has praised him stuffed Hound Dog from the 1972 Elvis with the ultimate: “Thane Dunn is the Summer Festival. closest thing to Elvis I’ve ever seen.” “We have made so many friends in Dunn’s PEI roots run deep: PEI over the years, from Dave Clark “Islanders have an incredible passion to Richard Wood, the world’s best fidfor the King,” he says. “From visitdler,” shares Dunn. “The kindness of ing the old car museum in Bonshaw Islanders is so similar to the kindness to Elvis in Wax in Cavendish, and of Presley, my boyhood idol. “Sharing this brand-new show, stunthe Mayor of Summerside declaring ning new suits, incredible new band, August 16th Elvis Presley Day, this and fresh songs with everyone for one Island breathes rock and roll history.” last time on the Island is the greatest PEI is also where Dunn proposed to thrill of my career.” his wife. Over the years, the local conVisit confederationcentre.com or nection has yielded unique moments: a thanedunn.com for tickets. PEI resident won one of Dunn’s actual
Back in Canada by popular demand and making a scheduled stop to perform in Summerside is “FLASHBACK” – a “musical experience” that comes direct from the stages of Las Vegas the entertainment capitol of the world. FLASHBACK is the latest production from Chapquist Entertainment, creators of “OH WHAT A NIGHT” and “FOUR BY FOUR”. What makes this show even more popular is that producers have taken the very best parts of these two original shows and combined them together creating a production that has more variety and appeal than ever before. This new concept show has already gained immense popularity across North America. Audience members love the variety of songs, the quality of the musical numbers, and the overwhelming talent of the cast members who have
been individually selected to perform in this production. This incredible musical experience celebrates the music of five different legendary groups including Motown… The Beach Boys… The Beatles… The Bee Gees… as well as Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Relive the memories from this golden age of music with non stop hits, amazing choreography and entertaining banter which will bring you even closer to these personable and talented performers. “Flashback”… an incredible musical experience! Tickets are already on sale for their appearance at the Harbourfront Theatre on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at 7:00 PM. Call 902-888-2500 or visit www.harbourfronttheatre.com
To Remember, To Give Back
John McDermott brings concert tour to Harbourfront—Oct 14 International recording artist and multi-platinum tenor John McDermott will bring his deeply moving concert tour, To Remember, To Give Back, to Summerside’s Harbourfront Theatre on October 14 at 7:30 pm. This concert is an inspiring tribute to sacrifice, gratitude, and the enduring power of song. Guided by a lifelong promise to his father to honour Canada and its veterans, McDermott weaves a program of wartime ballads, Celtic classics, and timeless standards, including “Danny Boy,” “The Green Fields of France,” “Waltzing Matilda,” and “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Accompanied by guitarist Jason Fowler and violinist Drew Jurecka, McDermott’s signature warmth and
John McDermott
storytelling promise an evening that connects generations through shared history and music. Visit harbourfronttheatre.com to purchase tickets.
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PEI RECORDINGS
The Island Jubilee Season premieres with a tribute to Canadian country music
Brain Busters
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The Humanoid Movement
(L–R): Catherine MacLellan, Shane Pendergast, and Janelle Banks
The Island Jubilee Old Time Radio Music Show returns for its fifth season at Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown on October 25 at 2 pm. The season begins with a special tribute to Canadian country music stars, showcasing the music of Anne Murray, Gene MacLellan, Gordon Lightfoot, Hank Snow and many others. The performance will feature singer-songwriters Shane Pendergast and Catherine MacLellan, step dancer Janelle Banks and the Jubilee All-Star Band. Catherine MacLellan has been captivating audiences around the world with her warm presence and musical artistry for over two decades. Through her own music, as well as her production honouring her father, Gene MacLellan, she continues to carry his legacy forward while forging her own. Shane Pendergast is a true triple threat—a captivating poet, singer and guitarist whose music is deeply rooted in folk traditions. Generations of fabled Island storytellers and musicians make up Shane’s DNA, and he carries the spirit of Maritime folk music forward through honest, insightful, and deeply personal compositions. A perennial favourite, Springvale’s Janelle Banks will open the fifth season with her acclaimed step dancing. With over 20 years of experience, the decorated champion has earned
numerous honours at competitions across Canada, and has performed at events including the World Cup in Quebec and Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom parade. The Island Jubilee Old Time Radio Music Show is a celebration of classic country and old-time music that captures the magic of the golden age of radio. Co-hosted by Janet McGarry and Serge Bernard, the program showcases Island talent backed by the Jubilee All-Stars: Thomas Webb (steel guitar), Bobby McIsaac (acoustic/electric guitar), Johnny Ross (piano), Jason Burbine (bass) and Courtney HoganChandler (fiddle). Every performance is emceed by country music radio personality Randy Geddes and recorded live for broadcast on Tantramar 107.9 FM CFTA. The Island Jubilee continues its commitment to giving back to the community by supporting the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation through proceeds from 50/50 draws and autographed guitar raffles, as well as the Holland College School of Performing Arts and CTV’s Christmas Daddies. Doors open at 1:30 pm. Tickets are available in person at the box office, by calling 902-894-6885, through Ticketpro at 1-888-311-9090 or online at islandjubilee.com. Follow the Island Jubilee on Facebook for updates.
The Humanoid Movement released its 15-track debut album Brain Busters on August 11. Consisting of PEI rap veterans Norm Strangely and Bill Dozer, The Humanoid Movement blends oldschool hip hop with a modern underground feel. From Dozer’s other group, Practical Academics, Rob Banks has beats laced throughout the project, including the feel-good YouTube video “Make Your Fate” and the ghoulishly funny yet horrifying “Halloween Havoc.” Adam Robbins also contributed beats laced throughout the album, including the chill YouTube single “Illsborough River” and Strangely’s catchy solo love joint “That’s Love.” Dozer also has a solo love track, a funny yet cleverly deep song called “Four Letters.” The album features other beat makers, each contributing one beat to give the album a feeling of unpredictability: Son Jamms, Element, Forgotto and Who Nose. Guest rappers on the album are Maine’s Dynamo P and New Zealand’s Rez Unique, both contributing tight verses on the keeping-it-real track “Back To The Basics.” Brain Busters was recorded and produced by Adjust The Facts member Atomic. The creative chemistry between him and The Humanoid Movement has resulted in an album that seems vaguely familiar yet is totally fresh. The album is available on flash drive at Back Alley Music in Charlottetown and it can also be found on Bandcamp.
“Jack Pine” Shane Pendergast PEI singer-songwriter Shane Pendergast released “Jack Pine” on September 25, the title track from his upcoming fifth album, Jack Pine, out October 23. An album release show is set for October 22 at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown.
“Jack Pine” is an introspective yet uplifting folk song inspired by the rugged resilience of its namesake tree. Rooted in earthy imagery, live instrumentation, and Pendergast’s deep connection to the landscape and literary traditions of PEI, the track finds beauty in adapting to difficult surroundings without losing sight of who you are. The song takes inspiration from Pendergast’s longstanding fascination with jack pines: hardy, unconventional trees capable of growing in barren and unforgiving ground. That connection is also rooted in the work of Milton Acorn, whose writing about the tree particularly resonated with Pendergast. The majority of the track was recorded live off the floor, allowing the natural chemistry between the musicians to shape the performance. PEI singer-songwriter Catherine MacLellan contributes backing vocals to the track. The song’s connection to Pendergast’s artistic world extends beyond the forthcoming album. He also hosts The Jack Pine Folk Club, a gathering dedicated to folk music and poetry that shares its name with both the song and record.
Rock Night Classic hits at Hunter’s Ale House—Oct 23 PEI cover band Rock Night returns to Hunter’s Ale House in Charlottetown on October 23 at 10 pm to perform classic hits from the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s, with new members joining the lineup. Opening the show is Island musician OLDMAN Distortion, who will perform an acoustic set from 10–11 pm. Rock Night will once again donate all proceeds to a local organization. This time, the recipient is Gifts From The Heart, which provides essentials and support to Islanders in need. The event is presented by M3 Events. Admission is cash only at the door. Follow @rocknightpei on Instagram for updates.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 45
At Trailside Music Hall
Pendergast’s fifth album, Jack Pine, features themes of resiliency, nostalgia, and the cyclicality of life. It was recorded over five days in a historic PEI church. Accompanied by a band, Shane will perform his new album, as well as some of his older compositions, for what promises to be an exceptional evening of Island folk music.
A three night celebration of the songs of John Prine hosted by Nick Doneff. The last show of the weekend is an intimate night with Nick, his guitar, and the beautiful songs of John Prine to finish off this weekend of music from one of the greats.
A selection of performances in October
After Hours Band Oct 16, 17
Matt Minglewood Band
JAMES BENNETT
Oct 16–17 ›› 8 pm
Matt Minglewood will play his final shows on PEI on October 23 & 24
David Francey
Fucked Up
October 2 ›› 8 pm
Oct 8 ›› 8 pm
This powerhouse six-member PEI cover band—featuring seasoned pros from Haywire and Ninth Hour—brings together Kenny Vail, David Rashed, Dean MacKinnon, Ron Atkinson, Matt Anderson, and Will MacKinnon for an electrifying live experience. With a guitar- and keyboard-driven sound, they deliver a high-energy mix of 80s and 90s rock and pop hits from Van Halen, Journey, Def Leppard, Loverboy, ZZ Top, and The Cult.
Shane Pendergast Album Release Show Oct 22 ›› 8 pm
Final PEI performances Oct 23–24 ›› 8 pm Matt Minglewood will be playing his two final shows on the Island at the Trailside October 23 and 24 to finish off an amazing career and run of performances at the Trailside over the past 16 years. This will also be an early 80th birthday celebration for Matt. A guitarist, pianist, singer, and songwriter, Minglewood creates an inspired blend of country, blues, folk, roots and rock. Both on record and on stage he keeps the music thriving, interesting and vivacious. He has a dozen recordings and thirty years of touring from Cape Breton to Vancouver and across Europe.
Life in the Fast Lane A Night of the Eagles
Vintage 4.0 No Skips Dance Party Oct 3 ›› 8 pm
Nick Doneff
Vintage 4.0 is switching things up for a No Skips Dance Party, built around songs that one never skips: hits, throwbacks, mashups, and “songs you forgot you loved.” Rather than a fixed set list, the band reads the room and pulls from a large catalogue—building the show in real time, often turning songs into mashups and medleys along the way. One might hear Fleetwood Mac alongside Green Day, and The Tragically Hip, followed by Run-DMC, or a familiar ‘80s chorus suddenly turn into something completely different. Rock, pop, country, alternative, East Coast favourites and plenty in between can all end up in the same night.
9th annual Tribute to John Prine Weekend Oct 9–11 ›› 8 pm
LUKA HALL
With One Day, Fucked Up have delivered a massive-sounding record that arrives in deceptively small confines. The Canadian hardcore legends have been known for their epic scale—from towering concept albums to 12-hour performances—so it might be a surprise that the band’s sixth studio album is their shortest to date, written and recorded in the confines of one single day (hence the title). The band’s sound has gotten bigger, more hard-charging, with even denser thickets of melody.
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David Francey is a singer and storyteller. His humour and observations, combined with his openhearted singing style, have earned him a loyal following. He has released thirteen albums, won four JUNO Awards, and his songs have been covered by artists such as The Del McCoury Band, The Rankin Family, James Keelaghan, and Tracy Grammer.
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Oct 29–31 ›› 8 pm
Hailing from a long lineage of storytellers and musicians in PEI, Shane Pendergast is keeping the Maritime folk tradition alive with his honest and insightful compositions. He was nominated for Songwriter of the Year at the 2026 Canadian Folk Music Awards.
From the laid-back grooves of “Take It Easy” to the soulful grandeur of “Desperado” — often called the “Ave Maria of 1970s rock” — this night of music celebrates the timeless legacy of The Eagles. With heartfelt performances and catchy grooves, this show honours the songs that continue to captivate audiences around the world. There’s a reason their music still resonates today, and this night will remind audiences why. Trailside Music Hall is located at 155 Kent Street in Charlottetown. Doors open at 6:30 pm for performances starting at 8 pm. For tickets, information and full schedule visit trailside.ca or call 902-367-3311.
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Montuno Cubano at Scott MacAulay Performance Hall—Oct 10
Starring Jonah Anderson at Milton Community Hall—Oct 17
Jorge Peña
classic “Moliendo Café,” Kitson may join Peña and the band in Spanish. Born in Santiago de Cuba and now a permanent resident of Canada based in PEI, Peña grew up on a coffee plantation in the mountains outside the city. He spent 25 years performing alongside his brother as Hermanos Peña before building his career further through Europe and eventually Canada. Montuno Cubano’s debut album, Frágil de Cristal, was released in October 2025. Visit smpac.ca for tickets.
An Evening with Elvis and the new Blue Suede Band returns to the Milton Community Hall on October 17 at 7:30 pm. The show stars Jonah Anderson as Elvis and features Jennifer Carson and Marylynn Côté as The Fabulous Blue Suedettes, Johnny Ross on keyboards, Em Peters on guitar, Jesse MacCormac on drums, and Kendell Perry on bass. The performance will feature Elvis hits, with Anderson’s authentic and passionate tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, acccompanied by the Blue Suede Band, vocal harmonies, and yes, real hair and sideburns. Advance tickets are encouraged and can be purchased by e-transfer to miltoncommunityhall@gmail.com (include name in the subject line). Tickets can also be purchased with
Jonah Anderson as Elvis
cash at the door. The Hall is located at 7 New Glasgow Road, Route 224, North Milton.
Olivia Blacquiere Performing at Harbour Hall in Borden-Carleton—Oct 4 Singer-songwriter Olivia Blacquiere, of Rustico, PEI, will perform from 2–4 pm on October 4 at Harbour Hall in Borden-Carleton. The supporting act is local Borden singer-guitarist Dustin Allen. Blacquiere’s music is deeply rooted in the rhythms of East Coast life—red clay roads, salt air, and strong community traditions. Her songwriting reflects the stories and memories that helped her find her voice. Blending folk influences with a natural gift for storytelling, Blacquiere’s performances feel both intimate and spirited, weaving together original songs and community connection.
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Montuno Cubano presents Cuban Soul, Maritime Spirit on October 10 at the Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside. An unscripted musical experiment in which Cuban and Maritime musicians will share a stage for the first time, Cuban Soul, Maritime Spirit brings bandleader Jorge Peña together with three Maritime musicians, including Joey Kitson, formerly of the celebrated Newfoundland Celtic rock band Rawlins Cross. Rather than performing separate Cuban and Maritime sets, the six musicians will play together for the first time on stage that night, trading songs and letting one tradition respond to the other in real time. “They listen” is how the concert’s own framing puts it, and that is the whole idea: two groups of musicians who do not share a first language or a rhythmic tradition discovering what happens when they simply start playing. That discovery plays out in specific, unrehearsed moments. During the Maritime standard “Heave Away,” sung by Kitson in English, the Cuban musicians may unexpectedly join him on the chorus in harmony. The exchange runs both directions. During the Cuban
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An Evening with Elvis
PETLEY PEÑA
Cuban Soul, Maritime Spirit
After several years performing professionally at local ceilidhs and collaborative shows, she continues to grow her catalogue of original music. As both a performer and creative host, she is passionate about fostering the musical community on PEI, building spaces for artists to gather and share their work. Admission is at the door. Advance tickets are also available from the artists or at Harbour Hall (225 Carleton St), during its weekly Open Mic Night.
OPEN MICS
you-can. All money raised goes toward running Harbour Hall. 225 Carleton St, Borden-Carleton.
Open Mic Night in BordenCarleton
Open Mic at Bonshaw hall
An Open Mic Night takes place at Harbour Hall every Wednesday from 7–9 pm. This acoustic event, housed in a former church, welcomes both seasoned performers and those stepping on stage for the first time, whether they are singers, musicians, storytellers, poets, or dancers. Artists can arrive before the start time and sign up onsite to perform. For those who prefer to sit and listen, the evening offers a chance to enjoy a variety of local talent. Admission is pay-what-
The next Open Mic at Bonshaw Hall takes place on October 16 from 7–9:30 pm. The monthly event is hosted by Aaron Stevenson. All are welcome. Admission is pay-what-you-can. 9 Green Rd, Bonshaw. Weekly open mic nights also take place at Hunter’s Ale House in Charlottetown on Mondays (10 pm start), Baba’s Lounge in Charlottetown on Wednesdays (9 pm start), Summerside Legion on Thursdays (7:30 pm start), and Playmakers Club in Charlottetown on Thursdays.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 47
Outlaw country
Echoes: Willie Nelson
PEACEMAKER debuts at Scott MacAulay Centre—Oct 8
(L–R): PEACEMAKER - Dan Currie, Roger Carter, Katie Currie, Aron Scott, Stephane Bouchard, and Johnny Ross
Prince Edward Island’s very own outlaw country band, PEACEMAKER, will perform their debut concert at the Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre in Summerside on October 8. This new musical project consists of a group of highly respected and accomplished PEI musicians, spanning the width and breadth of the Island. The group features Aron Scott on vocals and guitar, Katie Currie on vocals and acoustic guitar, Dan Currie on vocals, guitar, and mandolin, Stephane Bouchard on bass, Roger Carter on
drums, and Johnny Ross on piano. PEACEMAKER is all about original vintage outlaw country. Audiences can expect an earful of classic songs originally by Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams, Jerry Reed, David Allan Coe, Linda Ronstadt, Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, and more. Doors open at 7 pm with showtime at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available at the College of Piping box office in Summerside and online at smpac.ca.
Country Music Festival
Nudie
Copper Bottom Brewing in Montague presents Echoes: Willie Nelson on October 24 at 7:30 pm. Join Island singer and musician Nudie for an evening celebrating the life, music and stories of Willie Nelson. Nudie has toured far and wide, performing in venues of all sizes across North America. A natural raconteur, he will share the stories behind Willie Nelson’s songs and life, along with tales from his own experiences busking out front and going backstage during Willie Nelson’s 2006 Canadian tour. Joined by Bobby McIsaac on guitar and vocals, Nudie will bring Willie’s music to life with a mix of his biggest hits and deeper cuts. This is a 19+ event. Doors open at 5:30 pm. Tickets are available in the taproom or online via Eventbrite. 567 Main Street, Montague.
In Spite of Ourselves
Three events with PEI performers—Oct 16 to 18
An Evening of John Prine at Kings Playhouse—Oct 4 SUBMITTED
The 17th Country Music Festival at the Village musical acadien in AbramVillage will take place from October 16–18, with three events showcasing PEI country musicians. The Evening of Legends on October 16 will feature amateur and professional performers paying tribute to or impersonating artists such as Willie Nelson, George Jones, Shania Twain, The Chicks, and more. Performers will be backed by a house band featuring Rémi Arsenault, Rodney Arsenault, Keelin Wedge, Danny MacNevin, and Peter Burke. The festival’s headlining event on October 17 will feature Marcella Richard. Her headlining set, Marcella’s Country Favourites, will feature songs in both English and French. The hardcore country trio of Joey Doucette, Jamie Matthews, and Kurk
TIM LINGLEY
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Celebrate the music, and stories with Nudie—Oct 24
Marcella Richard
Bernard will open the show with hoedown-style country music. Both evenings are 19+ events and begin at 8 pm, with cash bar service available. The Country Brunch Jamboree on October 18, from 11 am–1 pm, will close the weekend’s festivities with a buffet meal and entertainment by Keera Gallant and more. Visit villagemusical.ca/shop to purchase tickets.
In Spite of Ourselves: An Evening of John Prine returns to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on October 4 at 7:30 pm. Celebrating what would have been John Prine’s 80th birthday, the tribute brings together eight musicians and longtime friends to perform the songs that made him one of folk and country music’s most beloved storytellers. Following a near sell-out performance in 2025, the group returns with an expanded lineup featuring Blair Packham of The Jitters, Bill Craig of The Irish Rovers, Kirsten Jones, twotime JUNO Award nominee Johnny Max, and an ensemble of musicians. Visit kingsplayhouse.com for ticket information.
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The Music & Legacy of the Eagles—Oct 7
In concert at Kings Playhouse—Oct 17
Take It To The Limit – The Music & Legacy of the Eagles will make a stop in Charlottetown on October 7 at Confederation Centre of the Arts. Presented by Moon Coin Productions, this world-class production captures the harmonies and songwriting that defined the Eagles, offering audiences an authentic live concert experience featuring faithful performances of the band’s most beloved classics. Songs including “Hotel California,” “Heartache Tonight,” “Desperado,”
Acclaimed folk singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Rose Cousins will be on stage at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on October 17 at 7:30 pm. On her record, Conditions of Love, Vol. 1, the JUNO Award-winning Island favourite holds her listeners’ hands as she guides them on a journey through the “conditions of love.” Ever the emotional explorer, the acclaimed, Nova-Scotia-based folk artist seeks truth, in all its imperfection, in the depths of our most complicated of emotions: love. Co-produced with trusted friend and longtime bandmate Joshua Van Tassel, this new collection of songs sees Rose return to her first love, the piano. “Piano is where I feel the most connected. It’s the best partner in expressing the emotion I’m mining,” she shares. Rose’s work has garnered her two JUNO Awards, two Canadian Folk Music Awards, eleven East Coast Music Awards, and one Grammy nomination, along with praise from CBC, No Depression, LA Times, Associated Press, Billboard, Folk Alley, and NPR, who raved “Cousins’ disarmingly fluid vocal tone has the ability to convey the
“Lyin’ Eyes,” ”Peaceful Easy Feeling,” “Take It To The Limit,” and more are performed with respect for the original recordings that continue to resonate with fans. Take It To The Limit is performed entirely live on stage, with no backing tracks, auto-tune, or pre-recorded elements. At the heart of the production is a commitment to preserving and celebrating the legacy of the Eagles through live performance. Visit confederationcentre.com to purchase tickets.
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Rose Cousins
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Take It To The Limit
most internalized feelings without an ounce of fuss.” Over the years, she has shared stages with Patty Griffin, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Jann Arden, Bruce Cockburn, Josh Ritter, Kathleen Edwards, Joe Henry, Aoife O’Donovan, and Anais Mitchell. Her music has fittingly underscored scenes from notable TV shows including Grey’s Anatomy, Fire Country, Station 19, and Batwoman. Tickets are available at the door, by calling 902-652-2053, or by visiting kingsplayhouse.com.
Music PEI and Rising Tide Added support for Golden Ticket and Microgrant programs Music PEI and the Rising Tide Community Fund (RTCF) have entered into a three-year partnership, representing a $75,000 investment in the development and careers of PEI artists. Through the partnership, the RTCF will provide Music PEI with $25,000 annually over the next three years, supporting two key areas of Music PEI’s artist development programming. Music PEI’s Golden Ticket program will now be presented by the RTCF, with $20,000 annually dedicated to the program. Golden Ticket is Music PEI’s intensive artist development program, designed to provide emerging Island artists with the resources, mentorship and professional support needed to take an important step forward in their careers. Participants receive hands-on support throughout the development and release of new music. The partnership will also allow Music PEI to expand its Microgrant Program with the introduction of five new Travel Microgrants each year, supported by an additional $5000 annual investment from the Rising Tide Community Fund. The new Travel Microgrants will provide flexible, accessible support to help Music
PEI members pursue career-building opportunities outside of PEI and reduce some of the financial barriers associated with travel. Music PEI is the music industry association for Prince Edward Island, working to advance the careers of Island artists and music industry professionals through investment, professional development, export, showcasing and industry-building opportunities. The Rising Tide Community Fund Inc. supports the professional growth of emerging artists across Atlantic Canada. Funds are raised through Whitecap Entertainment’s two signature music festivals, Cavendish Beach Music Festival and Sommo Festival. The three-year partnership reflects a shared commitment to creating opportunities for Islanders and investing in the province’s vibrant cultural community. Travel Microgrants will be available on a rolling basis until the annual funding allocation has been fully distributed. Applications are now open. Full program details, eligibility requirements and application information are available at musicpei.com.
LIVE MUSIC bars, lounges, pubs, cafés...
161 Pub & Eatery/ Playmakers Club
Charlottetown Beer Garden
Live music on Fridays. Open Mic on Thursdays. Karaoke on Saturdays (9:30 pm–1 am). 161 Maypoint Rd, Charlottetown.
DJ Fernando & DJ Leahy (Oct 3); Gizmo album release (10); ANCHOR Fest - Slash Need (16); ANCHOR Fest - Penny & The Pits (17); DJ CD & Purdy album release (24); BraedenV (31). 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Albert & Crown Pub
Charlottetown Legion
Joey Doucette (Oct 1/8/15 @8 pm); FisherKings (3 @7 pm); Floyd Gaudet (9 @6 pm); Nick Holden (10 @7 pm); Alyssa Harper & Dakota Strongman (16 @6 pm); Greenmount (22 @6 pm); Rick Sparkes (23 @6 pm); Blair Gaudet (30 @6 pm). 480 Main St, Alberton.
Baba’s Lounge
Island Jazz (Oct 1/8/15/22/29 @8 pm); Fernando (2 @10 pm); DJ Wolfe, Caleb, Purdy (3 @10 pm); Zebedee, James Leclair (6 @8 pm); Time Warp W/ DJ Putty (9 @10 pm); Rick Sparks (10 @7 pm); OTHR (10 @10 pm); Jennifer Howard (16 @7 pm); D-Rok & Candy Heist’s Birthday Bash (16 @10 pm); Javier (17 @10 pm); Ruby (23 @10 pm); Unity (24 @7 pm); The Get Alongs (24 @10 pm); Bernsy (27 @8 pm); Strange Disease (30 @7 pm); Staticage—Misfits Tribute (30 @10 pm); Plain Dirty Blues (31 @5:30 pm); Dexter (31 @10 pm). Open Mic W/ Ivan Stewart on Wednesdays (9 pm). Karaoke on Mondays (10 pm). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Be You Bar
Halloween Dance Party W/ DJ Jane Blaze on October 31 (10 pm–2 am). 119 Grafton St, Charlottetown.
Bogside Brewing Montague
Fridays & Saturdays (6–9 pm)(*unless noted): Steve Zaat (Oct 2); Mat Hannah
(3); Sip and Savour/Fall Flavours with the Leclair Family Band (7 *Wed *ticketed); Michael Sigouin (9); Billy White (10); Rodney Perry (16); Margarita Wayne (17); Barry O’Brien (23); Nathan Carragher (24); Lawrence Maxwell (30). 11 Brook St, Montague.
Bogside Brewing Summerside
Fridays & Saturdays (6–9 pm): Marc Coughlin Duo (Oct 2); Alyssa Harper (3); Brad Milligan (9); Chris and Molly (10); Chris & Lucy (16); MadJoy (17); Jonny Rae Arsenault (23); Brothers MacPhee (24); Dave Woodside (30). DJ Jane Blaze on September 5. 110 Water St, Summerside.
Brothers 2
Thursdays (7–9 pm) & Fridays (7–10 pm): Braedon Quarles (Oct 1); Fisherkings (2); Ryan Merry (8); Danny D (9); Nick Hann (15); Madjoy (16); Dan Doiron (22); Acoustic Bros (23); Todd Gallant (29); D’Arcy & Moe (30). 618 Water St, Summerside.
Saturdays (9:30 pm–12:30 am): Back in Tyne (Oct 3); Wrecking Crew (10); Dunk River (17); Crimson Clay (24); Kim Albert and Faces (31). 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.
Copper Bottom Brewing
Brandon Quarles (10 @6 pm); Barry O’Brien (17 @6 pm); Echoes: A Night of Willie Nelson (24 @7:30 pm *ticketed); Halloween Party (31). 567 Main St, Montague.
Evermoore Brewing
Tuesdays (6–8 pm): Nick Doneff (Oct 6); Adam Basset (13); Alyssa Harper (20); Logan Maddix (27). Irish Traditional Session with Geoff Charlton on Saturdays (1:30–4 pm). 192 Water St, Summerside.
The Factory
DJs on Fridays & Saturdays (11 pm): DJ Douce (Oct 2/10/16/24/30); DJ Derek (3/9/17/23/31). 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
FiN Folk Food
Fridays (5:30–7:30 pm): TBA (Oct 2); Matt Hannah (9); Lawrence Maxwell (16); Olivia Blacquiere (23); TBA (30). 106 Beach Rd, Grand Tracadie.
Founders’ Food Hall
Select days (12–2 pm *unless noted): Nadine Haddad & Nico Romero (Oct 2); Sophia Elaine & Nico Romero (3) Dan Paynter (3 @5 pm); Margarita Wayne (6); Nathan Carragher (7); Hanson Yuan (8); Brothers MacPhee (10); Raymond Knorr (10 @5 pm); Mark & Spencer Philips (11); Carter Maclellan (12); Chris Burke (13); Dan Paynter (14); Colin Macdonald (17); Carter Maclellan (18); John MacAllar (19); Dan Paynter (20); Nick Doneff (21); Nathan Carragher (23); Carter Maclellan (25); Margarita Wayne (26); Chris Burke (28). 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.
Harbour Hall
Open Mic Night on Wednesdays (7–9 pm). 225 Carleton Street, Borden-Carleton.
Hunter’s Ale House
Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays (11 pm): Mat & Adam (Oct 1/29); Griff & guest (2); Takeda Takeda (3); Brad & Isaac (8/16); Laura & Don (9); Gin N Tonic (10/24); Oliver Carter (15); Dahlia (17); Travis & guest (22); Rock Night (23); Paratomb (30); Dead Sesasons, Lust Forevers (31). Open Mic W/ Travis on Mondays (10 pm). 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 49
The Hub Lounge
Brian Dunn (Oct 3 @1 pm); Ashley Gorman (10 @1 pm). Andersons Creek Golf Club, 68 North Rd, Stanley Bridge.
SAT OCT 24 CONFEDERATION CENTRE
John Brown Grille
Richie Bulger (17 @2 pm); Kim Albert (17 @2 pm); Saul Good Duo (24 @2 pm); 20 Eyes, Nativity in Black, Sisters (30); DJ Jeremie (31). 132 Richmond St, Charlottetown.
Lone Oak Brewing Co
Fridays (6–8 pm): Blu Robin (Oct 2); Jodi & Parker Cameron (9); Sound Eats The Boy (16); Dave Woodside (23); Chris Trail (30). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.
Montague Legion
Michael Roves (Oct 24 @6 pm). Sing to Win Karaoke on Fridays (8 pm). 15 Douses Rd, Montague.
Olde Dublin Pub
Vintage 2.0 (Oct 1/8/15/22 @8 pm); Brothers MacPhee (2 @6 pm); Sidewinder (2 @10 pm); Dino & Judy (3/21 @1 pm); Marvin Birt (3/31 @6 pm); Adam MacGregor & The Foes (3 @10 pm); Pierre & Patrick Tinant W/ step dancer Grace Chaisson (4/11 @6 pm); Robbie Doherty (6/7/14 @12 pm); Carter MacLellan W/ step dancer Mylah Campbell (6/13/20 @7 pm); Richie & Trevor (7/14/21/28 @7 pm); Dan Doiron (8 @12 pm); Allison Blacquiere Duo (9 @6 pm); Boney Oaks (9 @10 pm); Dan MacAulay & Taylor Johnston (10/30 @6 pm); Wannabeez (10 @10 pm); Cole Brioux (11 @1 pm); Robbie Doherty (12 @7 pm); Dennis Dunn Duo (16 @6 pm); Wrecking Crew (16 @10 pm); Saul Good Duo (17 @12 pm); Liam Kearney Duo (17 @6 pm); Gin N Tonic (17 @10 pm); Gordon Belsher & Courtney Hogan Chandler W/ step dancer Grace Chaisson (18/25 @6 pm); Gordon Belsher (19/26 @12 pm); Stratton and Kays (23 @6 pm); Gypsy Soul (23 @10 pm); Acoustic Brothers (24 @6 pm); Salty Sailors (24 @10 pm); Trivia & Tunes W/ Cone & Robbie Doherty (29 @7 pm); Raglan Road (30/31 @10 pm). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
Red’s Gold Cup Lounge
Fridays & Saturdays (10 pm–1 am): Brad Milligan (Oct 2); Greg Bungay (3); Barry O’Brien (9); Nathan Carragher (10); Richie Bulger Duo (16); Mike & Karen Penton (17); Billy White (23); Wayne Gallant (24); Sasha Bruce (30); Steve Zaat (31). Red Shores, 21 Exhibition Dr, Charlottetown.
Summerside Legion
JRT Country on Thursdays (7–11 pm). Johnny G and the Legionnaires on Fridays (7–11 pm). 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.
Village Green
Nudie Plays Country Shit on October 2, 9, and 16 (6–8 pm). 30 Church St, Cornwall.
The Whiskey Pub and Kitchen
Brian Dunn (Oct 23); Carter MacLellan (30). Karaoke with Chris on October 2. 25 Hopeton Rd, Stratford.
ELVIS IN CONCERT THANE DUNN’S FINAL
Page 50 The BUZZ October 2026
MUSIC 2027 Music PEI Award submissions open
Music PEI invites Island artists and music industry professionals to submit their work for consideration for the 2027 Music PEI Awards. Submissions are open until October 12 at 11:59 pm AT. The 2027 Music PEI Awards will recognize achievements across 29 categories. Nominees will be featured and celebrated throughout Music PEI Week, taking place February 26–March 6, 2027, with award recipients announced at the Music PEI Awards Gala on March 6. This year’s awards include new and updated categories. Heavy Album of the Year (replacing Alternative Recording of the Year), with updated criteria encompassing alt-rock, punk and hardcore, experimental, grunge, metal, and other heavier styles of music. Album Art of the Year returns as a standalone award, separating recognition for album artwork from the broader Visual Artist of the Year category. The former Lloyd Doyle New Artist of the Year award has been replaced by two categories: Lloyd Doyle Emerging Artist of the Year and Breakthrough Artist of the Year. The Pop/ Dance Recording of the Year has been split into two categories: Pop Recording of the Year and Dance Recording of the Year. Finally, the selection process
for Music Video of the Year will return to jury adjudication rather than a community vote. Artists and industry professionals can review the complete 2027 award guidelines and submit their work at awards.musicpei.com.
PEI Fiddlers Society 50th anniversary info session
The PEI Fiddlers Society will host a meeting at The Pourhouse in Charlottetown on October 4 at 1 pm to discuss plans for a celebration marking its 50th anniversary in 2027. The society was formed in 1977 when fiddlers from across the province came together to establish several chapters across PEI. Since then, hundreds of players of all ages have shared their time and talent on stages around the region. The celebration could include a concert, a series of concerts or a small festival, and all ideas are encouraged. Musicians and fans are welcome to attend the meeting and bring their ideas and enthusiasm. Those who can’t attend but are interested in being part of the celebration can send their contact information to Marie Gilchrist by email at marieshartnergilchrist@gmail.com or by calling 902-213-1331. The Pourhouse is located above The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
A Great Thanksgiving Show A Great Thanksgiving Show will take place at Central Christian Church on October 16 at 6:30 pm. Tickets are available at the church, 223 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Stratford Choir
The Stratford Choir is inviting new members to join for the 2026–27 season. Rehearsals take place on Tuesdays from 7–8:30 pm at Spring Park United, Kirkwood Dr, Charlottetown. The choir will sing a selection of Christmas music chosen by choir director Lori Linkletter. Info: 902-393-9759.
Informal jam session
An informal jam session for adults takes place at the Summerside Library on Mondays at 6 pm. Bring an instrument or borrow one from the library and join other musicians for an informal evening of acoustic music.
COVER:
Encroachment (Triptych), oil on canvas, 51” x 105” by Brenda Whiteway.
ISSUE# 394 • OCTOBER 2026
buzzpei.com @buzzpei Editor: Yanik Richards Editor: Michelle Ollerhead Website: Nakeesa Aghdasy Partners: Maggie Lillo (Ruby Square Graphic Design), Carly Martin (Hawthorne House Media) Contributors: Julie Bull, Jane Ledwell, Sean McQuaid, Takako Morita, Tara Reeves, JoDee Samuelson, Gary Schneider, Bren Simmers, Ashleigh Tremere, Brenda Whiteway
Office: 160 Richmond Street, Charlottetown Mail: P.O. Box 1945, Charlottetown, PE C1A7N5 Phone: 902-628-1958 E-mail: info@buzzpei.com The Buzz, published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc., 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.
Brenda Whiteway is a visual artist, specializing in painting, who lives and works on PEI. She received a BFA from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, and has exhibited in numerous group and solo shows, with her most recent solo exhibit being Botanicals, a series of paintings of Island flora, at Ravenwood House. The passage of time, transitions in nature, and shifting patterns of life as well as the effects of urbanization and technology on traditional, rural lifestyles have been recurrent themes in Whiteway’s creative work. She is currently exploring these themes further through paintings, drawings and mixed-media of a small coastal area in southeastern PEI that has personal significance for the artist but also resonates on a universal scale. Her work can be found in many private and public collections, including Transport Canada, the Art Bank of the Canada Council, Prince Edward Island Art Bank, the permanent collection of the Confederation Centre Art Gallery, and the City of Charlottetown. 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.
MP CHARLOTTETOWN
HERE TO HELP FEDERAL FUEL EXCISE TAX RELIEF EXTENDED Extending the federal fuel excise tax pause means continued savings of 10¢/L on gasoline and 4¢/L on diesel through January 31, 2027 — helping lower transportation costs for businesses and families across Prince Edward Island. Office: 75 Fitzroy St., Suite 201 • Phone: 902-566-7770 • Email: sean.casey@parl.gc.ca | www.seancasey.ca
The BUZZ October 2026 Page 51
Cowboy Christmas
SUBMITTED
ALKAN EMIN
Country music holiday tour at Harbourfront Theatre
George Canyon (left) and Aaron Pritchett
Two of Canadian country music’s biggest artists are joining forces to bring their holiday tour to Summerside, PEI. On November 12 at 7:30 pm, CCMA Award winners and multi-platinum artists George Canyon and Aaron Pritchett bring their national tour, A Coast-to-Coast Cowboy Christmas 2, to the Harbourfront Theatre stage. Presented as a feature holiday event during Harbourfront’s 30th-anniversary season, this double bill brings together two decades of chart-topping hits and timeless festive classics. With over 25 years of hits between them, Canyon and Pritchett blend high-energy country showmanship
with deep-rooted traditions. Nova Scotia native George Canyon—a JUNO, CCMA, and ECMA winner inducted into the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame—brings his catalogue of hits, including “I Believe in Angels” and ”Just Like You.” Alongside him, Aaron Pritchett brings more than 20 years of experience performing for audiences across Canada.Together, the duo presents an evening of storytelling, signature songs, and holiday music. For Harbourfront Theatre, hosting two established Canadian country artists is a highlight of the autumn lineup. Tickets are on sale now at the box office and harbourfronttheatre.com.
The Ennis Sisters The Ennis Sisters bring their annual holiday concert, Christmas with The Ennis Sisters, to Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on November 26. Hailing from St. John’s, Newfoundland, sisters Maureen, Karen, and Teresa Ennis have been performing together for more than 25 years. Drawing on their Celtic roots and East Coast musical traditions, the JUNO Award-winning trio’s Christmas concert features a mix of original seasonal
NOVEMBER BUZZ DEADLINE Submissions and advertising
SUBMITTED
Annual holiday concert at Harbourfront Theatre
tunes and reimagined classic carols. The performance combines the sisters’ three-part vocal harmonies and acoustic arrangements with personal stories and humour, capturing the spirit of a traditional East Coast Christmas. Visit harbourfronttheatre.com to purchase tickets.
October 15
Advertising: sales@buzzpei.com Editorial: info@buzzpei.com
Page 52 The BUZZ October 2026
Harbourfront Theatre • 30 Years of Entertainment at the Heart of Our Harbour Every ticket, sponsorship, volunteer hour, and youth donation keeps our doors open and island talent shining right here on stage.
Oct 14 • 7:30 pm John McDermott To Remember, To Give Back. A heartfelt, moving tribute honouring our veterans through Celtic favourites and heartfelt storytelling.
Oct 30 • 7:30 pm
Nov 12 • 7:30 pm
Nov 20 • 7:30 pm
Outerbridge Magic Mysteries of the Keyhole House Renowned illusionists Ted and Marion Outerbridge blend grand magic and ghost stories in a spine-tingling family show.
A Cowboy Christmas 2 George Canyon & Aaron Pritchett Two Canadian country icons unite for a high-energy holiday celebration packed with chart-topping hits and Christmas classics.
Lennie Gallant The Innkeeper’s Christmas Island favorite Lennie Gallant returns with original songs, vivid visuals, and heartfelt stories for an unforgettable holiday tradition.
To know more:
harbourfronttheatre.com Call our Box Office:
902 888 2500
124 Heather Moyse Drive, Summerside, PE C1N 5Y8
October 2026
SOBEY FAMILY THEATRE SUN
WED
18 PEI Symphony Orchestra Presents: Belonging
Take It To The Limit:
07 The Music & Legacy of the Eagles WED FRI
09 Girls Night Out The Show®
Classic Albums Live Performs:
21 SUPERTRAMP - Breakfast in America THU
22 The Sheepdogs: Out All Night Tour
SAT
10 Country Boys Tribute Show SAT
24 Thane Dunn’s Elvis in Concert TUE
13 Violinist James Ehnes SAT
THU
Loreena McKennitt:
15 The Mask and The Mirror Tour
God Is A Scottish
17 Drag Queen
SEE THE LINEUP • GET YOUR TICKETS
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YOUR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT PARTNER
SUPPORTED BY
The Dunes will cover the HST on Eve LLyndorah Jewellery and The Island Art Gallery during the sale.
studio gallery café & gardens
ISLANDER APPRECIATION SALE Saturday, Oct 10 - Sunday, Oct 18 9am - 6pm
Lunch served in the Café until Sunday, Oct 18 Dinner service featuring
Harvest Feast
Oct 2 & 3, 9 & 10, 16 & 17 RSVP please 902 672 2586
Galleries 902 672 2586
Café 902 672 1883
@THEDUNESSTUDIOGALLERY DUNESGALLERY.CA