2022 Season Brochure

2022 WINTER/ SPRING SEASON

Photo by Dan Brown

DOWNTOWN ST. CATHARINES

FOR THE LOVE OF

MUSIC THEATRE CIRCUS DANCE COMEDY FILM COMMUNITY THE ARTS.

The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre is located in downtown St. Catharines, Ontario at the corner of St. Paul and Carlisle Streets on the shared traditional lands of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Neutral Peoples and many other Indigenous People from across Turtle Island. We offer our sincere gratitude and respect to the original and continued stewards of this land.

We also acknowledge Indigenous, Black, other Racialized Communities and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Peoples that have been marginalized for centuries and more—and our collective responsibility to take action for a better world free from oppression, discrimination and racism.

WELCOME ... BACK! It is time. Since March 2020 we have endured one of the most challenging times in recent memory, existing in isolation from family, friends and our simple, everyday joys. Coming back to a version of the life we once knew, a life filled with music, dance, performance and joy, is now in front of us. I cannot think of a better way to rebuild our spirits than to be face to face with artists in communal spaces designed for the true expression of the arts. Together we shall sing, dance and come together as community for the love of the arts and for the love of ourselves. Join us once again at the PAC, over and over and over again. It is time.

Colleen A. Smith Chief Executive Officer

Please allow me to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome back to you all. When the Board of Directors of the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre first came together in early 2020 we could never predict how long our beautiful facility would sit idle, waiting to return as the cultural hub of our community. During that time, we were heartened at the response and support of our partners at Brock University and the City of St. Catharines and the work of our incredible team and volunteers and generous donors. On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you to everyone who chooses to show their patronage to the PAC by supporting this amazing series of upcoming performances. We look forward to seeing you and your families at the PAC! Six years ago the Niagara community rallied around the idea of building a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre and we are confident that the Niagara community will once again come together to celebrate the return of the arts.

Mario De Divitiis Chair, Board of Directors

OUR PURPOSE:

MAKING EACH DAY COME ALIVE THROUGH INSPIRING AND ENGAGING ARTISTIC EXPERIENCES, FOR AND WITH OUR COMMUNITY. HOW TO SUPPORT THE PAC

CAPITAL DONORS

The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre is a cultural hub and home to over a dozen local arts organizations and festivals. Donations are welcome to support artistic, youth programs and learning initiatives in our community!

FirstOntario Credit Union Peter and Janet Partridge Joe and Anita Robertson Algoma Central Corporation Cogeco John and June Mann John and Harriet Lehnen Joy Williams RBC Foundation Marian Gordon - Kendall The John Muratori Family Ineke Brinkman Art and Val Fleming Virginia Atkin and Keith Ambachtsheer Linda and Tom Goldspink Wynne Nicholson Christopher J. Slater (in memory of Mr. and Mrs. J.L. Slater)

Visit www.firstontariopac.ca to make your donation today.

THE ART OF GIVING We would like to acknowledge The City of St. Catharines Mayor, City Council and staff (past and present); Brock University President, faculty and staff; Infrastructure Canada and the Province of Ontario for project funding support; The Department of Canadian Heritage; the Ontario Arts Council; Niagara Region (Niagara Investment in Culture) for their support of our season programming; the Niagara Centre for the Arts Task Force, PAC User Group and the citizens of St. Catharines-Niagara. The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre is grateful to all of our donors and sponsors who have supported the arts in our community!

+ Over 80 families and businesses also contributed to the PAC’s 2015 Community Campaign.

A LOOK BACK AS WE LOOK AHEAD...

The global pandemic affected our community and our work in ways that we could never have imagined. Our team continued to work diligently to find alternative ways to engage with artists, audiences and community in the digital landscape and in-venue programming when we were able to do so. Despite the challenge of the times, we remained open for opportunity and collaboration.

HERE ARE A FEW HIGHLIGHTS:

CELEBRATION OF NATIONS VIRTUAL 2020 + HYBRID 2021

$185,000 paid in artist fees 52K of virtual engagement 300 Artists, Knowledge Keepers and Elders shared virtually and/or in person 43 Global Partners helped us spread the word

Image: Cris Derksen’s Orchestral Powwow, 2021 Celebration of Nations

GORD’S LEGACY

IN SUPPORT OF THE GORD DOWNIE & CHANIE WENJACK FUND $10K+ raised for the Downie Wenjack Fund 2 virtual concerts, 15K views nationally 80 artists featured Co-hosted by St. Catharines Mayor (and Gord Downie super fan) Walter Sendzik Image: Gord’s Legacy Virtual Concert, Sun 17 Oct 2021

#NIAGARAPERFORMS 40 episodes over 5 months kept us connected Featured 106 local artists $15k paid in local artists fees 80K views

Laurel and Hulley #NiagaraPerforms Sun 26 Apr 2020

EMANCIPATION DAY STC (2020 + 2021) Collaboration with local community leaders Matter of Black and BlackOwned905 28K views to online programs + 250 attended our St. Paul St. concert with LMT Connection w/ Tabitha Lewis 40 artists + speakers showcased Matter of Black’s Erika Smith and Trustee and Historian at the BME Church Salem Chapel Rochelle Bush at Richard Pierpoint Plaque (2021)

EXPLORING THE DIGITAL NEEDS OF NIAGARA’S ARTS COMMUNITY LATE JAN - EARLY FEB 2021 350 participants from local and national arts community Explored curiosities in the digital landscape Project Advisers - Sara Diamond, President Emerita of OCADU + Shannon Kitchings, Local Artist/ Facilitator/ Changemaker Supported through Canada Council for the Arts Digital Strategy Fund

LOCAL REFLECTIONS ON RACISM JUNE 2021 - PRESENT

Image: Racism in Sport virtual panel Thurs 26 Nov 2020

Keeping up the momentum for racial justice and inclusion In partnership with Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre, Niagara Region Anti-Racism Association 8 virtual programs to amplify IBPOC and LGBTQQIA+ voices and experiences

101 DEWEGUNS LIVING HEARTS LEGACY, EST. 2020 Co-created by Elders Jackie Labonte and Oliver Nobosin Steering committee of 13 members that includes PAC programming staff Building 101 drums from kindness with community Encouraging an open reconciliation dialogue Vision to drum from coast to coast in Fall 2023

Through the lockdowns and uncertain times, it was heartening to see how the arts were a beacon of hope. It was books, music, films, television and livestreamed shows that lifted our spirits and continued to keep us connected.

All the while we dreamt of this time when we could all come together again to share in artistic experiences that elevate, educate and enlighten us. The time has come.

WELCOME

My oh my - does it ever feel good to share this welcome with you! Hard to believe that it’s been nearly two years since we had to close the doors to our beloved home for the arts in response to the global pandemic - while moving through our busiest season to date!

What follows is a 1/2 season of programs that we are so excited to share with you. Some of these shows have been on the books for some time now - scheduled and rescheduled - while others are new offerings. Each chosen with care and intended to bring us together again in ways only the arts can.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Sara Palmieri Director of Programming & Marketing

HOW TO BOOK TICKETS

Memberships and Tickets Available Online at www.firstontariopac.ca On sale to Seat Owner Members: Thurs 25 Nov - 11am On sale to Members: Thurs 2 Dec - 11am On sale to the Public: Tues 7 Dec - 11am Box Office is open Tues to Fri - 11am - 4pm (by phone only) Phone: 905-688-0722, Toll Free 1-855-515-0722, TTY 905-688-4889 Email: boxoffice@firstontariopac.ca Coordinates: 250 St. Paul St, St. Catharines, ON L2R 3M2 *IN PERSON BY APPOINTMENT ONLY* Payment or assistance in person must be arranged in advance with the Box Office by phone or email.

BECOME A

MEMBER

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW BE THE FIRST TO GET TICKETS GET ALL THE PERKS ½ SEASON MEMBER BENEFITS: • • • • • • • • •

Order tickets prior to the general public.

Order tickets to added shows prior to the general public.

Save up to 25% off regular ticket prices.

Purchase up to 10 discounted tickets per show.

Bring your friends for free to selected events.

Invitations to exclusive events.

Convenient order payment plan.* Complimentary ticket exchanges.* NEW! Receive two free passes to any screening in The Film House!

Be part of a community that supports our aim to bring exceptional performing arts experiences to Niagara!

$60+HST

One membership per household.

Membership valid for 1/2 season (1 Jan - 31 May). *Some restrictions may apply.

WELCOME BACK. WE’VE MISSED YOU.

HEAR! HERE! W/ THE MARK LALAMA TRIO Did we ever Miss! Miss! the Hear!

extensively across North America.

Here! Music Series with the

Darlings of the Canadian music scene,

incomparable Mark Lalama Trio

Amanda’s ethereal soprano voice blends

made up of highly sought after

seamlessly with Sheila’s velvety alto,

musicians, Rich Moore, Davide

creating the lush harmonies that have

DiRenzo and of course, Mark Lalama.

become their trademark.

These performances explode with energy and passion found only in live off-the-

JACKIE RICHARDSON

floor sessions.

SUN 10 APR 4PM

Enjoy songs, stories and spontaneity with our incredible house band and featured guests.

DALA SAT 15 JAN 4PM Juno nominees and winners of the 2010 Canadian Folk Music Award for Vocal Group of the Year, Amanda Walther and

Well known for her magnitude of work on stage, screen and studio, this gospel and jazz singer is highly recognized in Canada and a star in her own right. Local guest TBA. ROBERTSON THEATRE TICKETS $35 TABLE OF SIX $186 (SAVE $24)

Sheila Carabine of Dala write and sing in harmony best described as angelic.

They’ve released five albums and toured

Photo by Bob McGee

PIAF! THE SHOW With a million tickets sold in more than 50 countries and acclaimed reviews worldwide, Piaf! The Show is a celebration of the life and music of the legendary French chanteuse Edith Piaf.

Conceived and directed by the Nice-based theatrical maverick Gil Marsalla and starring Anne Carrere, a young French performer hailed as “Edith Piaf’s legitimate musical heiress,” Piaf! The Show was inspired by the award-winning

Carrere can miraculously capture Piaf’s soul and timbre…!”

- Nate Chinen The New York Times “Anne Carrere’s soaring voice is used to devastating effect!”

- John Lewis The Guardian, London

movie La Vie En Rose.

The show explores the rags-toriches story of the Parisian singer’s career through her unforgettable songs, complemented by a visual tapestry of previously unreleased images of famous Parisian locations of the Edith Piaf era.

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $56 MEMBER $46 COLLEGE/UNI $25 WED 19 JAN 7:30PM

While his music is sonically pleasing, its depth comes from Cochrane’s songwriting — he is a storyteller extraordinaire and it’s that combination of music and lyrics that makes

his songs special. “ – Regina Leader-Post “One of the country’s most popular live acts.”

– Canada’s Walk of Fame

TOM COCHRANE WITH RED RIDER

Legendary Canadian rocker Tom Cochrane has covered a lot of terrain over a career that now spans over 40 years and includes nods from the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Walk of Fame and a prestigious Officer of the Order of Canada. Cochrane will next hit the highway once again with his band Red Rider.

With 17 albums and more than six million copies sold worldwide of his breakthrough 1991 album Mad Mad World, Cochrane continues to create potent new material, cementing his place in the hearts of Canadians through crowd-pleasing performances from coast to coast.

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $75 MEMBER $65 FRI 28 JAN 7:30PM

THE ORIGINAL WAILERS FEATURING AL ANDERSON

AN ENDLESS PASSION FOR MUSIC, FOR VOICES, FOR DISCOVERY, FOR PEOPLE, FOR LIFE. In 1974 when Bob Marley went solo, on the brink of international stardom, he surprised the music community by choosing American-born lead guitarist, Al Anderson. It was Anderson’s stunning lead work on such classics as No Woman, No Cry, and Three O’clock Roadblock, that first alerted rock fans to the Wailer’s music.

Andersons’ musical achievements with Bob Marley & The Wailers include the platinum award-winning albums, Live at the Lyceum, Babylon

by Bus and ten times platinum album Legend. The Original Wailers received their own Grammy nomination in 2013 for their album ‘Miracle’ making it Andersons’ second

Grammy nomination. Al Anderson is the sole member of the Bob Marley & The Wailers’ mid 1970’s lineup in The Original Wailers. The Original Wailers keep Bob Marley’s “One Love” philosophy and message of social responsibility alive through his music.

The Original Wailers include Chet Samuel (Lead Vocals / Guitar), Omar Lopez (Bass Guitar), Paapa Nyarkoh (Drums), and Adrian AK Cisneros (Keyboards and Organ) who continue the legacy of Bob Marley & The Wailers’ music.

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $56 MEMBER $46 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 WED 2 FEB 7:30PM

GALLERY PLAYERS PRESENTS

MOVIE NIGHT: BODY AND SOUL (1920) WITH LIVE MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT Gallery Players continues their fascinating journey with improvised live music accompanying silent films. Body and Soul (1920), written/directed by Oscar Micheaux (1884-1951), is one of three surviving and restored silent feature films of this prolific, pioneering African-American filmmaker (he produced over 40 feature films from 1919-47). Starring Paul Robson (his first screen role) playing twin brothers: main twin is an escaped prisoner/con artist who passes himself off as a preacher in Georgia.

Performers: Douglas Miller, flute; Eric Mahar, guitars; Penner Mackay, Percussion; Joan Nicks, film historian.

THE FILM HOUSE TICKETS $40 FRI 11 FEB 6:45PM FILM INTRODUCTION 7PM FILM Presented in partnership with the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.

HARRIET TUBMAN: WHEN I CROSSED THAT LINE TO FREEDOM WITH THE NATHANIEL DETT CHORALE A two-act opera that tells of how a young girl born in slavery becomes Harriet Tubman, the legendary Underground Railroad conductor. Based on recent Tubman biographies, the story is told in the context of Tubman’s tight-knit family of lively characters. When I Crossed the Line carries the universal themes of sisterhood, courage, sacrifice and doing what is necessary to keep a family together. Moreover it is a heartwarming tale of two sisters vowing that nothing but death will separate them, despite the slavery threatening to tear them apart.

dedicated to Afrocentric music of all styles, including classical, spiritual, gospel, jazz, folk and blues.

Their mission is to build bridges of understanding, appreciation, and acceptance between communities of people, both Afrocentric and other, through the medium of music.

The Chorale seeks to dissolve the barriers of stereotype, to empower humans in general, and those of African descent in particular.

Under the direction of Founder, Artistic Director and conductor Brainerd Blyden-Taylor, The Nathaniel Dett Chorale is Canada’s first professional choral group

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $49 MEMBER $39 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 SAT 12 FEB 7:30PM

Sponsored by

an ensemble of achingly beautiful arias, duets, trios and choruses that recount the major episodes in Tubman’s career…”

– Glenn McNatt The Baltimore Sun

Love Someone is a call to action the pandemic has taught us all a lot about the significance of time and how we spend it. We need to look out for each other now more than ever.

Roll your windows down, feel the sun, take some time, love someone.”

- Johnny Reid

LOVE SOMEONE:

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH

JOHNNY REID Over an illustrious career spanning more than two decades, JUNO Award winning singer-songwriter Johnny Reid has captured the hearts of fans and audiences around the world. The critically-acclaimed singer is widely known for his lyrical honesty and musical ability, as demonstrated by a vast catalogue of hit songs, platinum selling albums, 26 Canadian Country Music Awards, six JUNO Awards and multiple sold-out national arena tours.

Johnny Reid will hit the Partridge Hall stage as part of a cross-country tour in support of his eleventh full length album, Love Someone.

PARTRIDGE HALL ALL TICKETS $79 WED 16 FEB 7:30PM

FAMILY

DAY at the PAC!

FLIP FABRIQUE with JAMIE ADKINS: SIX °

Join master trickster Jamie Adkins and his friends for this amazing acrobatic comedy from FLIP Fabrique, where mundane turns to magical, and ingenuity’s always involved!

On this planet, there are just six degrees of separation between us all. And since there are only five people on stage, what if the sixth person—the missing link—was you?

PARTRIDGE HALL ALL TICKETS $25 MON 21 FEB 11AM + 2PM

Feats to impress children and grown ups.”

- Le Soleil

PRIDE NIAGARA presents DRAG QUEEN STORYTIME Join Pride Niagara’s original “Drag Queen Storytime” for some LGBTQQIA+ positive stories.

A family event for all ages that teaches deeper lessons on diversity, self-love and an appreciation of others followed by an open Q&A. Drag Queen Storytime is about embracing the childhood imagination and play of gender fluidity. Giving children (big and small) glamorous, positive and queer role models without shame.

ROBERTSON THEATRE FREE MON 21 FEB 10AM + 12:30PM

FAMILY PROGRAMS AT THE FILM HOUSE ALL DAY LONG! Sponsored by

CHANTAL KREVIAZUK One of Canada’s most accomplished songwriters and recognizable voices will grace the PAC stage in support of her eighth studio album, Get to You, released during the pandemic to provide joy during uncertain times.

She is a platinum-selling, three-time Juno Award-winning artist and member of the prestigious Order of Canada. Chantal is also a gifted songwriter and has written for Drake, Pitbull, Kendrick Lamar, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Josh Groban and countless others.

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $56 MEMBER $46 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 WED 9 MARCH 7:30PM Sponsored by

The wonderful thing about music is that it is always welcomed and needed. In times of crisis, it offers solace and comfort. Without question, now is the time to release music.”

- Chantal Kreviazuk

JABERI DANCE THEATRE

NO WOMAN’S LAND Haunting images, empowering narrative and breathtaking movement by an electrifying ensemble lay bare the plight and resistance of women in refugee camps.

Based on real stories. Nominated for five Dora Awards, including Best Original Production. Created in partnership with IRIS-Institute for Research and Development on Inclusion and Society. * Mature content and partial nudity

ROBERTSON THEATRE REGULAR $30 MEMBER $25 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 FRI 11 + SAT 12 MARCH 7PM

Poetic and urgent blending of dance and politics.”

–My Entertainment World Bold, graceful, elegant and empowering aesthetic power.”

–Bateman Reviews

AN ESSENTIAL COLLECTIVE THEATRE PRODUCTION

WOMEN OF RESILIENCE (2020) + PANEL DISCUSSION

A FILM BY ROSELYN KELADA-SEDRA Women of Resilience follows the stories of four Niagara women over sixty who have faced personal traumas of war, displacement or abuse and their journeys to healing.

This documentary examines how we survive pain, hardship and the many emotional struggles that interrupt the healing design of the human brain and body and what makes women resilient.

Join Filmmaker Roselyn Kelada-Sedra and Jaberi Dance Theatre’s Artistic Director Roshanak Jaberi and guests for a post-screening panel discussion to explore the trauma of displacement and resilience of female survivors.

THE FILM HOUSE REGULAR $9.50 MEMBER $7.50 SAT 12 MARCH 2PM

JOHN MCDERMOTT AND FRIENDS

Canada’s most cherished tenor John McDermott will perform classic Celtic songs of love, loss and freedom from his illustrious career. McDermott will be joined by special guests to be announced!

In a life that has taken him around the world singing it out night after night, belting it to the rafters and proving his worth, he has come home and made his most reflective and thoughtful recording to date.

After stumbling into a more than thirty-year career inspired by the music his parents raised him on, he now has hard-earned life lessons and wisdom to share.

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $56 MEMBER $46 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 SUN 13 MARCH 2:30PM

KAHA:WI DANCE THEATRE

THE MUSH HOLE The Mush Hole is a theatrical dance performance about the truths of Canada’s first Indian residential school - The Mohawk Institute.

From 1828-1970, State and Church attempted to forcefully assimilate children from Six Nations and surrounding First Nations into EuroChristian society and sever the continuity of culture from parent to child. The Mush Hole weaves through the traumatic memories of two generations of Survivors.

Visceral performances by an all Indigenous cast, cinematic imagery and musical score catapult audiences into the bricks and mortar of the school. Created from Survivor testimonials, it is a story about hope and finding light in dark places.

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $30 MEMBER $25 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 TUES 22 MARCH 7PM

FEATURED PROGR AM

Photo by David Hou

A story about hope and finding light in dark places, as much as it speaks to intergenerational trauma, it screams resilience.”

- Santee Smith Kaha:wi Dance Theatre

MATT ANDERSEN A powerhouse performer with a giant, soul-filled voice and commanding stage presence, New Brunswick’s Matt Andersen has built a formidable following the old fashioned way: touring worldwide (with the likes of Steve Miller and Amy Helm) and letting his stunned audiences and new devotees spread the good word of his righteous tunes all over.

On Matt’s 10th album, Halfway Home by Morning, he explores every facet of his sound; sweatsoaked soul, incendiary rhythm and blues, heartbroken folk and gritty Americana.

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $45 MEMBER $35 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 WED 23 MARCH 7:30PM

He leaves the listener feeling as if he has bared his entire soul and poured his essence into each and every song."

- Canadian Beats

QUIQUE ESCAMILLA WI T H SPECIAL GUESTS BALAKLAVA BLUES Quique Escamilla is a Juno-Award winner and an accomplished multiinstrumentalist, singer-songwriter, producer and an international touring artist. Born and raised in the tropical southern lands of the state of Chiapas, Mexico, he started singing Mexican traditional folk songs at the age of four at his family reunions.

Today, Quique breaks down language barriers through his powerful voice and passionate delivery while fusing traditional Mexican styles of music with modern sounds of rock, reggae, ska, pop, blues, cumbia, bolero.

Balaklava Blues is the brainchild of Mark and Marichka Marczyk, creators of the multi-award winning guerrilla-folk-opera Counting Sheep

and leaders of the mighty Lemon Bucket Orkestra – Canada’s notorious 13-piece balkan-party-punk-massive.

Falling somewhere between a traditional song cycle and a full blown multimedia techno show, the duo fuses Ukrainian polyphony and other folk traditions with EDM, trap, dubstep and more as a launching pad to explore the seemingly never-ending blues that have long emanated from the Ukrainian steppe.

PARTRIDGE HALL TICKETS $30 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 SAT 26 MARCH 7:30PM

CELEBRATION OF NATIONS EMERGING INDIGENOUS MUSICIAN SHOWCASE

A special music showcase of local emerging and established Indigenous musicians making waves on the local scene, curated by Celebration of Nations Artistic Director Michele-Elise Burnett and artist/ producer Jill Lunn. Join us to explore new (to you) artists and support Indigenous creativity and expression.

A Celebration of Nations Featured Program Supported by Dr. Shimuzu Foundation THE RECITAL HALL ALL TICKETS: $25 SAT 9 APRIL 7PM

Photo by Mark Zelinski

CAROUSEL PLAYERS 50T H ANNI VERSARY FEST I VAL

TO THE MOON AND BACK! The Carousel Players 50th Anniversary Festival is a weekend of theatre, drama workshops and free events for families taking place across the Niagara region.

This Festival is a celebration of Carousel Players’ history, its importance to Niagara’s young people, and its future creating and teaching theatre.

The Festival is a time for the community to come back together for a shared experience that can be enjoyed by children and adults from age 2 to 92.

Families will be able to enjoy performances of three in person shows, screenings of two digital plays, free drop-in activities, drama workshops and more.

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THE INCREDIBLE ADVENTURES OF MARY JANE MOSQUITO for ages 6-10 SAT 16 APRIL 1PM Mary Jane, the wingless mosquito, is determined to find new friends by sharing her songs, her Cree language, and her kindness with others.

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HBD2ME for ages 9-12 SAT 16 APRIL 2PM How do you celebrate your 11th birthday when you can’t get together with any of your friends?

HBD2Me (Happy Birthday to Me) is about finding ways to connect during the pandemic.

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MEET CHLOE for ages 12-17 SAT 16 APRIL 4PM Chloe’s virtual history class is challenging, especially the project group she’s working with. When Chloe discovers the story of another Chloe, an enslaved Black woman who affected the course of Canadian history, she knows it’s time to make a change.

POP! POP! for ages 2-4 SUN 17 APRIL 10AM Seek and Hide explore a strange new world and find surprises popping up everywhere in this colourful sensory experience for toddlers and their caregivers.

VELVETEEN RABBIT for ages * THE 4-8 SUN 17 APRIL 3PM The Velveteen Rabbit and Bee are inseparable friends. Will the power of Bee’s love be enough to make the Velveteen Rabbit become real?

MULTIPLE VENUES SAT 16 APRIL - SUN 17 APRIL FESTIVAL PASSES PWYC ($20+) Presented in partnership with the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.

The Incredible Adventures of Mary Jane Mosquito illustrations and Season Banner by Sue Todd

SLOAN Halifax’s Sloan is one of the most important rock bands to come out of the ‘90s Canadian alternative scene. From their shoegaze/ Britpop-influenced Smeared, to their anthemic Navy Blues, and their take on pop perfection, One Chord to Another and Twice Removed, Sloan has never held back on exploring its sound. This quartet, whose lineup remains unaltered since 1991, will bring the rock to Partridge Hall this spring.

Arguably one of the most important Canadian rock acts of all time.”

- Exclaim

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $45 MEMBER $39 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 TUES 19 APRIL 7:30PM Sponsored by

JUST FOR

Each Spring, JFL assembles a crack team of up-andcoming comics and pairs them with an established host to deliver a night of side-splitting comedy in downtown St. Catharines.

ROAD SHOW

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $55 MEMBER $45 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 TUES 26 APRIL 7:30PM

LAUGHS

Bruce is an agitator, an activist, a protester.

He writes words that move the needle of public opinion and that shine the light on injustices.”

- Buffy Sainte-Marie

BRUCE COCKBURN With 34 previous releases, 13 JUNO wins, two Hall of Fame inductions, countless honorary Doctorates, Officer of the Order of Canada — and new inductee into Canada’s Walk of Fame — all spanning a 50+ year career — it’s no small task to encapsulate Bruce Cockburn’s inimitable imprint when it comes to Canadian music and culture.

The Canadian legend recently celebrated 50 years in the business by curating a doublealbum, Bruce Cockburn Greatest Hits (1970 - 2020), a definitive

collection that meticulously corrals the acclaimed singer/ songwriter’s most favoured tracks — from songs that shot to the top of the charts upon release, to long-lauded fan-favourites requested on tour, time and time again. His performance on the Partridge Hall stage will bring the greatest hits collection to life.

PARTRIDGE HALL REGULAR $59 MEMBER $49 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 THURS 28 APRIL 7:30PM

JOHN CLEESE

AN EVENING OF EXCEPTIONAL SILLINESS Don’t miss the “One and Only” John Cleese as he examines the dysfunctional world we live in and takes us down memory lane.

At 82 years of age – John Cleese is still the “World’s Funniest Man.” He made his first mark as a member of the legendary Monty Python Troupe in the 1960s and has gone on to write, produce, direct and star in some of the greatest comedic hits of the last 50 years – even receiving an Oscar nomination for the best screenplay for A Fish Called Wanda.

If you’re in the mood for a good laugh (and who isn’t these days) – this is the show for you.

PARTRIDGE HALL ALL TICKETS $99 TUES 3 MAY 7:30PM

As ever, coaxing the audience into the palm of his hand in a mere matter of a moment ... very much like having a quiet drink with the man in his drawing room.

- The Sydney Morning Herald

NATIONAL YOUTH CHOIR UNDER T HE DIRECT ION OF

DR. JEAN-SÉBASTIEN VALLÉE The National Youth Choir of Canada (NYCC) is a project of Choral Canada and is one of Canada’s finest youth choirs. It is a one-ofa-kind professional development opportunity for some of Canada’s best emerging choral singers. Truly national in scope, the prestigious choir is made up of singers between the ages of 19 and 26 who are auditioned from across the country

every two years. The overall theme of the 2022 NYCC programme is Make Me a World, a concert addressing important social issues through a diverse array of musical selections.

PARTRIDGE HALL TICKETS $35 COLLEGE/ UNI $25 MON 16 MAY 7:30PM

IN THE MIX

A SNEAK PEEK AT A FEW LOCAL GEMS TAKING PLACE AT THE PAC THIS WINTER AND SPRING!

BRAVO NIAGARA! FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS JAN – MAY 2022 Bravo Niagara!’s Spring 2022 programming includes the launch of the new Maestro Series featuring classical virtuosos Miloš Karadaglić, Shlomo Mintz, and Jon Kimura Parker. Bravo Niagara!’s Jazz Series features the Canadian debut of the Dave Brubeck Centennial Celebration Concert with the Brubeck Brothers Quartet, plus an International Jazz Day Concert featuring the music of Oscar Peterson with veteran members of the Oscar Peterson Quartet — and more!

Bravo Niagara! is a charitable organization dedicated to inspiring passion for the arts through the creation and presentation of transformative musical performances and multidisciplinary artistic experiences in the Niagara region. www.bravoniagara.org

MARILYN I. WALKER SCHOOL OF FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS (MIWSFPA) FEBRUARY - APRIL 2022 The MIWSFPA presents a vibrant performance season on stage at the Recital Hall in 2022: Walker String Quartet FRI 21 JAN 7:30PM Walker Cultural Leader Series Public Lecture with celebrated visual artist Mary Mattingly WED 9 FEB 6:30PM Brock University Choir SAT 2 APR 7:30PM Hugh and Marie Logan Jazz Series: University Jazz Ensemble MON 4 APR 7:30PM University Wind Ensemble TUES 5 APR 7:30PM University String Orchestra WED 6 APR 7:30PM brocku.ca/miwspfa

Image: Shlomo Mintz by Andrei Birjukov

CAROUSEL PLAYERS

CHORUS NIAGARA

Through the times when we’ve all had to stay at home, Carousel Players has been dreaming of new characters and stories to share, and exciting ways to tell those tales in the 2021-2022 Season. Join Carousel in celebrating 50 years of theatre you never outgrow with live shows, digital plays, and plenty of activities for both children and kids at heart!

Niagara’s premier auditioned 100-voice symphonic ensemble, CHORUS NIAGARA, was established in 1963, and is led by Artistic Director Robert Cooper, one of Canada’s most influential and experienced choral conductors. Chorus Niagara is a family of choirs that includes Chorus Niagara, the Chorus Niagara Children’s Choir, the Side-By-Side High School Chorale, the Robert Cooper Choral Scholars and an Associate Conductor Program. Our singers come from all walks of life and represent all ages from 3 - 83!

LIVE TOURING SHOWS MARCH - MAY 2022

The Velveteen Rabbit Adapted by Jocelyn Adema, Lena Maripu, Reanne Spitzer and Annie Tuma from the book by Margery Williams POP! POP! by Linda Carson and Monica Dufault The Incredible Adventures of Mary Jane Mosquito by Tomson Highway DIGITAL TOURING SHOWS JAN - MAY 2022

Meet Chloe by Cameron Grant

Chorus Niagara is pleased to present two concerts in Partridge Hall with special guest soloists, TorQ percussion, the Niagara Symphony Orchestra, the Bach Elgar Choir, the CNCC, and more!

See you there.

CARMINA BURANA

by Carl Orff 5 MARCH 2022

HBD2Me (Happy Birthday to Me)

by Monica Dufault

MISSA SOLEMNIS

by Ludwig van Beethoven 7 MAY 2022

www.carouselplayers.com

chorusniagara.org

TD NIAGARA JAZZ FESTIVAL For its 9th season, the TD Niagara Jazz Festival will feature both virtual and live in-person events throughout the year, with the bulk of the festival programming occurring during the last two weekends of July. Look out for our events throughout the Region, including Niagara’s Summer Mardi Gras, WORLD MUSIC on the BEACH, Twilight Jazz in the Clubs, and more! Visit us online for news and upcoming events. www.niagarajazzfestival.com

THE GALLERY PLAYERS OF NIAGARA Join the Gallery Players of Niagara for thrilling, intimate, and informal presentations of chamber music. From Vivaldi to Brahms to folk-inspired music, or improvised music for silent films, we cover it all! Choose to come live or join us virtually from the comfort of your home.

Single tickets available, or save and purchase a subscription.

Movie Night: BODY AND SOUL (1920) dir. Oscar Micheaux FRI 11 FEB 6:45PM Film House Gryphon Trio SUN 6 MARCH 2PM Recital Hall Southern Exposure!

SUN 8 MAY 2PM Silver Spire United Church (366 St. Paul Street)

NIAGARA YOUTH ORCHESTRA The Niagara Youth Orchestra is the premier training ground for young orchestral musicians aged 7-24 in the Niagara region. Led by professional coaches and conductors who are affiliated with orchestras across the province, all ensembles of the Niagara Youth Orchestra receive extensive “in person” music education and performance experiences through a regular concert season and special events.

New members are always welcome.

For more information contact music@niagarayouthorchestra.org

Eybler Quartet SUN 5 JUNE 2PM Silver Spire United Church (366 St. Paul Street)

A Spring Concert, featuring our Training Program, as well as the Concert and Symphonic Orchestras takes place 14 MAY 2022 at Calvary Church (89 Scott Street, St. Catharines).

www.galleryplayers.ca

www.niagarayouthorchestra.org

Image: Gryphon Trio

YELLOW DOOR THEATRE Based in the heart of Niagara-on-theLake, and in the heart of Founding Director Andorlie Hillstrom, Yellow Door Theatre Project is a registered charity that offers musical theatre skill training and performance opportunities with the full intention of changing lives—through experience for life!

NIAGARA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The Niagara Symphony Orchestra’s 2021-2022 concert season marks the triumphant return of live orchestral music to the concert hall in three distinct series.

Each series celebrates a joyful return to the stage for the orchestra and shines a spotlight on extraordinary Canadian talent. Enjoy classical favourites with Masterworks, beloved popular music with POPS!, or the energetic fusion of rock music and the Orchestra with ROCK! Masterworks - Invisible Cities SUN 16 JAN 2:30PM POPS! Sarah Sings Joni Mitchell SAT 19 FEB 7:30PM SUN 20 FEB 2:30PM ROCK! Deep Purple Rising THU 10 MAR 7:30PM Masterworks - Enigma Variations SUN 20 MAR 2:30PM POPS! Brass Transit The Music of Chicago SAT 16 APR 7:30PM SUN 17 APR 2:30PM Masterworks - Fewer Plays Vivaldi SUN 1 MAY 2:30PM Masterworks - Beethoven’s Ninth SUN 19 JUN 2:30PM www.niagarasymphony.com

All classes are held at the Redekopp Creative & Performing Arts Centre 504 Line 2 Road, Virgil For upcoming January classes visit yellowdoortheatre.com

ESSENTIAL COLLECTIVE THEATRE A non-profit theatre company based in St. Catharines, producing Canadian contemporary and original theatrical works that reflect our region’s unique identity and resonate with Niagara audiences.

ECT’s vision is to develop our performing arts community by supporting local theatre professionals, emerging artists, designers and playwrights in the spirit of creative collaboration.

Next up, we’re bringing Stephanie Jones’ highly anticipated John School to the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre. Stay tuned for details! ectheatre.ca

MAKE THE

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Supporting the Arts

Big enough to know. SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE.

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PARKING + VENUE ACCESS

On-site parking is not available; however, there are more than 1,000 spots in nearby downtown parking garages, surface lots and on city streets within a five-minute walk to the PAC. We recommend the multi-level covered garage on Garden Park* with 595 spaces and 26 accessible spaces. *Please note that the address is 71 Carlisle St. but the entrance is off of Garden Park.

Parking is generally free after 6pm. Special event parking is just $5 when events are happening in Partridge Hall or Meridian Centre. Payment is by cash only and is paid on entrance.

Accessible drop off is available in front of the Box Office Entrance on St. Paul St. as well as along Carlisle St. We are also conveniently located kitty-corner from St. Catharines main bus terminal making us very accessible via public transit.

Visit our website for more information on our: SAFETY LIVES HERE - Health and Safety Policy, COVID-19 Audience Vaccine Policy, Accessibility and other audience policies.

ONLINE: www.firstontariopac.ca PHONE: 905.688.0722 EMAIL: boxoffice@firstontariopac.ca ADDRESS: 250 St. Paul St., St. Catharines ON L2R 3M2

THANK YOU

THANK YOU

We wouldn’t be where we are without you. You play a critical role in our PAC family as ambassadors and friends and we simply couldn’t do what we do without each and every one of you!

Mario De Divitiis, Chair

TO OUR VOLUNTEERS

VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking to expand the volunteer team - ushers, greeters, ticket takers and more!

Become part of a team that cares deeply about providing exceptional arts and audience experiences.

Volunteering is fun! It’s your chance to have new experiences in the arts, meet new people, share your unique skills and talents and so much more!

More information and apply now at

TO OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS Peter Partridge Jr. Christina Atkinson Kristine Douglas Ken Chan Joseph Critelli Councillor Carlos Garcia Mary Jane Johnson Carol Meriam David Oakes Lloyd Smith

www.firstontariopac.ca

Mark Steinman

MAKE THE PAC YOUR HOME TOO!

Councillor Kevin Townsend

The PAC is a proud home to arts organizations, festivals and community gatherings - big and small. We love hosting our community and encourage you to consider us for your next arts event, community discussion or gathering.

Visit our website to learn more.

“ THE ESSENCE OF ALL BEAUTIFUL ART, ALL GREAT ART, IS GRATITUDE.” -FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE

DOW N TOW N ST. CAT HARI NES