WESTBEN Season 2023 Brochure

Coming Full Circle

“The Universe is circles within circles, and everything is one circle...” – Black Elk

“And the seasons, they go round and round.”

– Joni Mitchell, “The Circle Game”

Welcome to Westben’s Summer Season 2023! Inspired by the cyclical nature of life and nature, we celebrate “Coming Full Circle” this summer. It is a season imbued with that wonderful sense of “starting afresh” as the world emerges from a pandemic into a sunnier future.

Share the circle with a colourful array of local to international Canadian artists in various stages of the “cycles” of their careers. From international “classical” circles, we welcome Measha Brueggergosman-Lee, Janina Fialkowska and Ben Heppner. Singer-songwriters include Chantal Kreviazuk and Lennie Gallant, and jazz artists include Emilie-Claire Barlow, Laila Biali and the Brian Barlow Big Band.

Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame Award winner Dan Hill is here, as is platinum up-and-coming Warkworth-born country artist, Sacha (one of Country Music Television’s Next Women of Country, class of 2021). Around the Campfire, we have Ben Caplan and Del Barber. And pushing the boundaries, we have The Fretless, as well as a fully improvised concert complete with silent films, improv musicians and a mime!

We also share in the sacredness of the circle with our Michi Saagiig neighbours from Alderville First Nation who will be here with music and stories focusing on the caretakership of the Black Oak Savanna. From further around Canada, we also meet the young, joyful Mi’kmaq fiddler and singer Morgan Toney, winner of two East Coast Music Awards in 2022.

Finally, we are thrilled to be presenting “Les Mis in Concert” featuring all your favourite music from this smash hit musical, as performed by some of our favourite guest artists. If a story about finding redemption through a challenging time doesn’t resonate with the spirit of our own times, I don’t know what does!

We are so excited to invite you to join our circle this coming summer! This is music in nature, and we’re thrilled to welcome you here…

Land Acknowledgement

Westben is nestled amongst the gently rolling hills of the Gunshot Treaty lands and subsequent Williams Treaties of 1923, and the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig (Mississauga) Anishinaabeg near what is now known as Campbellford, Ontario.

This area today includes neighbouring Alderville, Hiawatha, and Curve Lake First Nations—thriving communities with cultural roots of music-making spanning thousands of years! If you would like to learn more about the Indigenous history around where Westben resides, we recommend reading: Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg: The History by Doug Williams and edited by Leanne Betasamoke Simpson, Alderville First Nation… A History by Brian Beaver and the Village of Hiawatha: A History by Heather Y. Shpuniarsky and the Village of Hiawatha Book Committee. As we continue to learn about the living histories of this place, it’s also important to know about the ongoing harms of colonization in Canada that can be traced to forced assimilation practices like the 1923 Williams Treaty, the Indian Act, and residential schools which operated from 1894 to 1997, and many others.

Our music-making at Westben is therefore in grateful recognition and appreciation of our Michi Saagiig friends whose music has filled these lands for generations.

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility

Westben is committed to recognizing, upholding, and celebrating the human rights and dignity of Black and Indigenous members of our community as well as with all people of colour and those in other marginalized groups whose lives are impacted and wrongly constrained by racism and discrimination.

Brian Finley, C.M.

Artistic & Managing Director

Westben Centre for Connection & Creativity Through Music

To that end, all Westben’s work, and activities will be guided by the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. These principles will inform decision making, the development of strategic initiatives, community engagement activities and policy formulation. The Board fosters an approach of ongoing learning and improvement striving to continue incorporating these principles in its ongoing work and throughout the organization.

Midsummer Magic Gala 5

Midsummer Magic at The Barn Gala

SUNDAY, JUNE 11 AT 1:00 PM – AT THE BARN

Join us for a memorable afternoon of midsummer magic and fundraising at The Barn! Wander the late spring meadow, explore the new gardens complete with native plants and trees, and catch a glimpse of bobolinks and cardinals enjoying the new Westben bird houses. A merry band of minstrels and nymphs invites you into The Barn for a delicious gourmet lunch by local Chef Ravi from Antonia’s Bistro, and entertainment by Westben’s Les Mis in Concert stars, tenor Adam Fisher and soprano Caitlin Wood. Peruse a dazzling silent auction which includes items ranging from white water rafting passes from the Madawaska Kanu Center, to Dine with the Stars at Donna & Brian’s home, to an overnight stay at Haut Goat with the Alpacas, local art and much more!

You are also invited to become part of the magic by dressing the part*! Be it whimsical in nature, or nature-inspired; be it magical or a clever art reproduction; be it a small part of your look (e.g., a flower-patterned bow tie) or the whole ensemble —help create a fanciful afternoon. Who knows what magic may materialize!

*Don’t worry if you’d rather just watch—that’s totally welcome too!

Enhance your Westben experience – ask us about custom picnics on the meadow before the show!

Just don’t miss this magical, premiere event at Westben!

2023 Season at-a-Glance Summer 2023 at-a-Glance

CHALK TALKS

JUNE JULY

FALL WEEKEND FESTIVAL

NOV DEC

AUGUST

Measha Brueggergosman-Lee

SUNDAY, JULY 2ND AT 2:00 PM – AT THE BARN

Motivated and hungry for new experiences, Ms. Measha Brueggergosman-Lee leads a career that effortlessly embraces the broadest array of performance platforms and musical styles, and genres. From art song to jazz to opera, this Grammy Award nominee has appeared from Carnegie Hall and Washington’s Kennedy Center to London’s Wigmore Hall and the Musikverein in Vienna. And now at The Barn!

measha.com

Brian Finley

FRIDAY, JULY 7TH AT 2:00 PM – AT THE BARN

“My piano is to me what a ship is to the sailor... It is the intimate personal depository of everything that stirred wildly in my brain during the most impassioned days of my youth. It was there that all my wishes, all my dreams, all my joys, and all my sorrows lay.” – Franz Liszt

Westben’s Artistic & Managing Director presents an afternoon of favourite piano music of Franz Liszt, including Un sospiro, Consolation No. 3, Second Hungarian Rhapsodie, Liebestraum No. 3, Bénédiction de Dieu dans la solitude and more.

brianfinley.ca

MI’KMAQ FIDDLER AND SINGER WILLOW HILL

Morgan Toney

FRIDAY, JULY 7TH AT 7:00 PM – ON WILLOW HILL

“We are living in circles. The earth is a circle. The drum is a circle, how we move around is a circle, and how we greet each other. The talking circle is huge.”

– Morgan Toney

Indigenous Artist of the Year and Inspirational Performance of the Year (2022 East Coast Music Awards)

Mi’kmaq fiddler and singer Morgan Toney brings together the fiery fiddling of Cape Breton Island with the old songs of the Mi’kmaq People with brilliance and heart. morgantoneymusic.com

COUNTRY WILLOW HILL

Sacha

SATURDAY, JULY 8TH AT 7:00 PM – ON WILLOW HILL

Originally from Warkworth Ontario, Sacha is one of country music’s fastest-rising stars. Making a name for herself in the US and Canada since the release of her debut EP in 2020, the breakout artist was named as a member of CMT’s Next Women of Country 2021 class while also earning her first platinum single with the viral hit track “What The Truck,” (w/The Reklaws), which was the fastest Canadian country song to go PLATINUM in history.

iamsacha.com

The Fretless

SUNDAY, JULY 9TH AT 2:00 PM – AT THE BARN

Four ferocious players, masterful composition, and a genre-bending sound — Juno award-winning The Fretless is a Canadian quartet that has firmly taken its place on the map to a progressive form of “trad”. Within what appears to be a simple and classical construct — two fiddles, a viola, and a cello — The Fretless has created a sound that is distinctly rich, multi-layered, and uniquely percussive. Expect intricate, beautiful, high-energy arrangements which have been enjoyed around the world from this supergroup of celebrated solo artists.

thefretless.com

Sounds of Silence

THURSDAY, JULY 13TH AT 7:00 PM – AT THE BARN

Expect the unexpected! Who knows what will happen when Ben Finley and a brilliant group of improvising musicians teams up with ET the Mime, one of Canada’s favourite mime artists, to explore a series of silent movies, and digital shorts, complete with on-the-spot creations! You’ll be left searching for words!

benfinleymusic.com

Ben Heppner with the Elmer Iseler Singers

FRIDAY, JULY 14TH AT 2:00 PM

– AT THE BARN

Canadian tenor Ben Heppner is renowned worldwide for his portrayals of the dramatic tenor repertoire. With an illustrious career that has taken him to opera stages and concert halls around the world, Ben now joins forces with The Elmer Iseler Singers. Conducted by artistic director Lydia Adams, the internationally acclaimed 20-voice ensemble celebrates its 44th Anniversary Season in 2022/23.

elmeriselersingers.com

Mozart in the Meadow

SATURDAY, July 15TH AT 2:00 PM – AT THE BARN

The sun is shining, the air is sweet. What better way to enjoy magnificent of music for clarinet and string quartet? Five favourite Westben musicians gather at The Barn to perform Mozart’s famous Clarinet Concerto, K. 622 and the glorious Clarinet Quintet in B Minor, Op. 115 by Brahms. Peter Shakleton, clarinet; Stephen Sitarski, violin; Sophie Drouin, violin; Jody Davenport, viola; Cathy Anderson, cello.

Dare to Pair

Before the Concert - Dare to Pair 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM

Before the merriment of Mozart, enjoy a delicious Viennese lunch prepared by Trent Hills Chef Ron Csenar with delicious world class German wine pairings shared by Wine Buff Duarte da Silva from Prince Edward County. Meet the artists and relax in the beautiful Westben meadow. Mozart would have loved it!

Limited Seating. Reservations are required 48 hours in advance. Please call the Box Office.

Before the Concert - Pre Concert Chat 1:15 PM Barb Hobart & Brian Finley discuss the music & composers

Stephen Sitarski

Peter Shakleton

Sophie Drouin

Cathy Anderson

Jody Dvenport

Del Barber

SATURDAY, JULY 15TH AT 8:00 PM – AROUND THE CAMPFIRE

With nominations for JUNO Awards, Western Canadian Music Awards, and Canadian Folk Music Awards, singer-songwriter Del Barber has shaped the folk music canon in Canada with five critically acclaimed studio albums under his belt, including his latest, “Easy Keeper,” an Americana opus that was four years in the making.

delbarber.com

Dan Hill

SUNDAY, JULY 16TH AT 2:00 PM – AT THE BARN

Nominated for a Grammy for Best Male Vocal, winner of a Grammy (as co-producer of “Seduces Me” on Celine Dion’s 32 plus million-selling “Falling Into You” album), winner of five Juno Awards, the Harold Moon Award (Canadian Lifetime Song writing Achievement Award) and inducted into the venerated Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame Award (2021), Dan is an international music industry legend.

danhill.com

Natural Balance

THURSDAY, JULY 20TH AT 7:00 PM – AT THE BARN

Join a friendly gathering of Alderville First Nation neighbours as they meet at The Barn to share stories, music, and conversation about their life, history, hopes, and dreams. Included is a special introduction to the creation and caretakership of Alderville’s Black Oak Savanna, the largest intact tract of native grassland in Central Ontario. Special guests include Chief Dave Mowat with artists Koren Smoke & Rick Beaver, musicians Jordan Mowat & Cale Crowe and others.

Emilie-Claire Barlow

FRIDAY, JULY 21ST AT 7:00 PM – ON WILLOW HILL

Canada’s incomparable vocal jazz jewel Emilie-Claire Barlow leads her stellar band through innovative arrangements of American-Songbook treasures, rhythmic bossa novas and elegant ballads. Known and loved for her relaxed, polished demeanour, her charming humour, and a voice of unforgettable beauty, Emilie-Claire’s concert will feature favourites from her extensive repertoire as well as new arrangements from her forthcoming 13th album “Spark Bird”.

“In typical fashion, Barlow consistently performs with poignant musicality combined with a great sense of humour. Overall, the night’s selections showcased Barlow’s ability to enrapture audiences with a combination of romance, drama and infectious energy. Even after presenting such a comprehensive program, there’s no doubt that she could have kept going and taken the crowd right along with her.”

– Chris Maskell – Ottawa Citizen

emilieclairebarlow.com

Janina Fialkowska

SATURDAY, JULY 22ND AT 2:00 PM – AT THE BARN

A Canadian classical legend. For almost 50 years, concert pianist Janina Fialkowska has enchanted audiences and critics around the world. Praised for her musical integrity, refreshing natural approach, and unique piano sound, she has been hailed as “one of the Grandes Dames of piano playing” (Frankfurter Allgemeine).

A venerated interpreter of the music of Chopin, she is the winner of the BBC Music Magazine’s 2013 “Instrumental CD of the Year” award as well as a Canadian Juno (2018). She is an Officer of the Order of Canada and winner of the “Governor General’s 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award in Classical Music.” Janina will be performing works by Schubert, Brahms, Ravel and Chopin including the A Major Polonaise (“Military”) and Scherzo no. 4 in E.

fialkowska.com

Before the Concert – Pre Concert Chat 1:10 - 1:40 PM Barb Hobart & Brian Finley discuss the music and composers.

Ben Caplan

SUNDAY, JULY 22ND AT 8:00 PM – AROUND THE CAMPFIRE

Described as both the roar of the hurricane and the eye of the storm, Ben Caplan has an uncanny ability to channel both wild abandon and quiet introspection in his song writing. Often drawing on his Jewish heritage, his music often mixes biblical imagery and klezmer-inflected melodies, re-appropriating ancient sounds, and themes with a decidedly contemporary twist.

bencaplan.ca

Chantal Kreviazuk

SUNDAY, JULY 23RD AT 2:00 PM – AT THE BARN

A platinum-selling, Grammy, and three-time Juno Award-winning artist from Winnipeg, Chantal Kreviazuk released her sixth album “Hard Sail” in 2016. A holiday album - “Christmas Is A Way Of Life, My Dear” – followed in 2019, with a brand new album “Get To You” released in the summer of 2020. While raising her three sons with her husband Raine Maida, she also spent time on her other musical passion, crafting songs. Chantal has written for Drake, Pitbull, Kendrick Lamar, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Josh Groban, and countless others.

chantalkreviazuk.com

Les Mis in Concert

TUESDAY, JULY 25TH AT 2:00 PM

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26TH AT 2:00 PM

THURSDAY, JULY 27TH AT 2:00 PM

FRIDAY, JULY 28TH AT 7:00 PM

SATURDAY, JULY 29TH AT 2:00 PM

SUNDAY, JULY 30TH AT 2:00 PM

TUESDAY, AUGUST 1ST AT 2:00 PM

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2ND AT 2:00 PM

Join us 50 minutes before the Concert for Hugo’s People, a pre concert chat with Yves Thomas on July 25, 27, 28, 29.

Dare to Pair

Before the Concert - Dare to Pair 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM

In honour of Chantal’s Ukrainian and Métis heritage, Chef Douglas Hope from Sper Restaurant in Warkworth prepares a delightful preconcert lunch with wine pairings by Prince Edward County’s wine expert Duarte Da Silva.

Limited Seating. Reservations are required 48 hours in advance. Please call the Box Office.

Experience the music of one of the most moving and beloved musicals in history. An all-star cast assembles at The Barn to bring to life all the favourite musical moments from this international hit. Featuring Adam Fisher, Robert Longo, Caitlin Wood, David Michael Moote, Maher Pavri & Kim Dafoe. (Please note: this is a concert version of the music from the musical, and not a fully-staged production). Production coordinated by Caroline Smith.

David Michael Moote Adam Fisher Kim Dafoe

Caitlin Wood Robert Longo Maher Pavri

WESTBEN

Lennie Gallant

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4TH AT 7:00 PM – ON WILLOW HILL

Canadian East Coast songwriter Lennie Gallant has released fourteen albums of original songs which have won him a host of awards and nominations from the JUNOs, Les Prix Eloizes, and The East Coast Music Awards. His song Peter’s Dream was recently inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. Lennie has toured internationally, performing all over North America, in Europe, for the troops in Afghanistan, and at the Olympics. He is a recipient of the Order of Canada.

lenniegallant.com

SINGER SONGWRITER

Jill Barber

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5TH AT 7:00 PM – AT THE BARN

Three-time Juno Award-nominated singer-songwriter, Jill Barber is an artist with an unforgettable voice once heard, never forgotten. Her critically acclaimed repertoire spans a transformative spectrum from folk to vocal jazz and pop and includes songs in both French and English. Her several awards include the Sirius XM Jazz Artist of the Year and the East Coast Music Award for Album of the Year.

jillbarber.com

The Music of Joni Mitchell & More

Laila Biali and the Brian Barlow Big Band

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6TH AT 2:00 PM – AT THE BARN

Imagine all your favourite music of Joni Mitchell in stunning arrangements for singers and big bands. Now imagine that in the hands of Laila Biali and Brian Barlow! Multi-award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter, pianist and CBC Music national radio host Laila Biali has headlined festivals and venues spanning five continents from New York City’s Carnegie Hall to Beijing’s National Centre for the Performing Arts. Joining Laila is Canadian jazz icon drummer and arranger Brian Barlow with his incomparable Big Band. Don’t miss this dazzling close to the 2023 summer season.

lailabiali.com

Sounds in Nature Experience

SEPTEMBER 30TH & OCTOBER 1ST AT 10:00 AM (please

Enjoy a magical autumn morning amidst the ancient splendour of colourful forests, peaceful streams and turning leaves. Watch as its beauty is transformed into music by Ben Finley & friends! Small groups of 15 meet on the Willow Hill then are guided on a nature walk through the Mary West Nature Reserve just across the road from Westben, then home to the Westben Campfire for local flower-based refreshments, snacks, and conversations with the artists. An amazing music & nature wellness experience! And uniquely Westben…

“This experience allows you to connect with nature in a way you would never expect. The combination of forest bathing and music brings the forest to life, as if it is singing to you. To see (hear) how every sound in nature can be turned into a piece of music was unbelievable.”

– Kristin Schaab

AROUND THE CAMPFIRE & WILLOW HILL

Fall for Westben

SEPTEMBER 29TH, 30TH & OCTOBER 1ST

Celebrate the beauty of a Northumberland autumn with Westben! Join us for a weekend of dazzling colours, crisp country air, and magnificent music in nature.

Kris & Dee

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 7:00 PM AT THE CAMPFIRE

Kris Abbott (The Pursuit of Happiness) and Dee McNeil (The Strap-Ons) have been called “one of Canada’s most compelling duos of the last decade”. This married philoso-folk duo from Kingston is known for honest, powerful and poetic songs which attract Millennials and Boomers, gendered and genderless, and everyone in between.

@facebook.com/krisanddee

George Fox

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2:00 PM ON WILLOW HILL

Recent inductee into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, George Fox has a mantle of country music awards, 11 albums and a street named after him in his hometown of Cochrane Alberta. With several top ten hits, George has won Male Vocalist of the Year (three times) and the Juno Awards Country Male Vocalist of the Year (three times). A Canadian country treasure!

georgefox.com

FALL FOR WESTBEN THE BARN

Michael Kaeshammer

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1ST, 2:00 PM AT THE BARN

He’s back! And he’s celebrating the release of his 15th studio album “Turn It Up”, an album brimming with “palpable positivity”! Join this acclaimed Canadian pianist/ singer for an unforgettable afternoon of dazzling music-making that weaves together threads of classical, jazz, blues, boogie-woogie, stride, and even pop into a signature and sought-after sonic tapestry.

kaeshammer.com

Friends in Song

SATURDAY, JUNE 3RD, 2:00 PM AT THE BARN

Westben Cookie, Youth & Teen Choruses

Directors Donna Bennett & Brian Finley

The Westben Cookie, Youth & Teen Choruses present a happy afternoon of bouncy choral favourites from Disney’s Mary Poppins, Tangled, Anne of Green Gables, The Sound of Music, Evan Hansen and more.

Performer-Composer Residency

JUNE 18TH TO 25TH, 2023

Creative Director Ben Finley

Facilitators – Sarah Belle Reid, Ben Finley, annais linares, Davy Sumner

PCR Concert of Premieres at The Barn

SATURDAY, JUNE 24TH, 7:00 PM

Featuring participants of the PCR Residency 2023

What happens when a small cohort of creative multi-hyphen musicians from Canada and around the world gather in our beautiful rural community for a week to create new music? What music does this space bring out in them? How might participating in these sounds and collaborations revitalize our ability to experience the world afresh? We invite you to come and find out!

Join us for the Performer-Composer Residency Concert on June 24 to experience the incredibly unique musical offerings and in-process sharings of the 2023 residency participants. Installations, improvisations, world premieres of compositions, multi-venue performances… prepare to expect the unexpected! Celebrate the wondrous depth, joy and diversity of music being made today.

You’ll Never Walk Alone

SUNDAY, JUNE 4TH, 2:00 PM AT THE BARN

Westben Festival Chorus

Director Brian Finley

Accompanist Kirsten Walsh

A stageful of Broadway and other popular classics is brought to life by the Westben Festival Chorus. Included are favourites from Fiddler on the Roof, Mary Poppins, Rent as well as the music of Joni Mitchell, Carole King and others.

We also invite you to attend participant-led events on a number of musical topics throughout the week. Stay tuned on the Westben website!

Background of the PCR

Instead of traditional teacher-student models or predetermining music genre boundaries, the PCR celebrates a wide range of musical practices, ages, and cultural backgrounds in a supportive peer-driven environment. Since 2018, Westben has welcomed 156 performer-composers from Canada and over 24 other countries, both digitally and in person. Now back on the Westben grounds for this 6th iteration, the PCR is thrilled to continue a weeklong experience of nurturing original musicmaking while trying to responsibly engage with the land around us that makes this all possible. Hope to see you there!

Back-to-School Chalk Talks

What note does a black hole emit? What does the breeze blowing through the poppies in Flanders Fields sound like? How could Franz Liszt play the piano so fast? Join the experts at the West Schoolhouse for 60 minutes of music, coffee and conversation around these and other crucial questions from the wonderful world of music.

Christmas at Westben

Speaking of Gifts…

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26TH, 3:00 PM AT ST JOHN’S UNITED CHURCH

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2ND &

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3RD, 2:00 PM AT THE BARN

Westben Festival Chorus

Director Brian Finley

Accompanist Kirsten Walsh

Bundle up and join Westben for another magical performance celebrating the season! Coming from her home on the Curve Lake First Nation, spoken word artist Sarah Lewis teams up with the eighty voices of the Westben Choruses in a collaborative exploration of giving, through word and song.

Legends of Liszt

SATURDAY, MAY 13TH AT 11 AM

Barb Hobart & Brian Finley

Exploring the man behind the myths.

Thank You Notes

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14TH AT 11 AM Christopher Cameron

Exploring musical thank you cards from Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto to Celine Dion.

Flanders Fields Reflections

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11TH AT 1 PM

Dr. John Burge

Exploring this Juno Award winning musical setting of “In Flanders Fields” with its composer.

The Venues

The entrance to The Barn, Willow Hill and The Campfire Venues is located at 6698 County Road 30, Campbellford, ON, K0L 1L0

THE BARN

seats up to 400 with comfortable cushioned seating. The doors roll open on 3 sides to the beautiful surrounding meadow. Excellent acoustics and air circulation with several large ceiling fans for comfort.

The Venues

WILLOW HILL

is a natural amphitheatre located by the pond and willow tree north of The Barn. Bring your own lawn chair and picnic or order a Westben picnic to enjoy with a glass of wine or beer. Relax in the the wide open spaces filled with music, nature and friends. Please dress for the weather, rain or shine.

THE CAMPFIRE

SEATING PLAN

is an intimate experience for 50 with a Westben performing artist. There will be smores, beverages, and time to chat with the artist. Bring your own lawn chair, warm clothing and enjoy the sunset evening of music in the outdoors.

DIGITAL VENUE

is a sound-playground inspired by the geography of this special place. The Barn is a hub for navigating the site. Most of all, we encourage you to play.

westbendigitalvenue.ca

THE WEST SCHOOLHOUSE

fulfills our dream of connecting the many facets of Westben onto a single campus. Located right next door to The Barn, the Schoolhouse supports this “Centre Vision” superbly by offering an ideal space for a year-round, box office, rehearsal hall, Chalk Talks and learning centre. As a Centre, Westben is focused on bringing people together through music.

Always Available on the Grounds

Sustainability at Westben

At the Milk Shed (Bar)

Choose from an eclectic collection of interesting wines and craft beers available before each concert and at intermission. Water and non-alcoholic beverages also available.

The Bar is open: 90 minutes before any concert or intermission. Save time! Purchase tickets for your intermission drinks before the concert starts!

At the General Store & Willow Hill Concession Tent

Open 90 Minutes before any Concert and at Intermission

Take home a piece of Westben with you. Discover locally made gifts and souvenir merchandise in the Gift Shop area.

Treats & Beverages including ice cream, snacks, coffee and non-alcoholic beverages also available.

Delicious Sandwiches

Made fresh daily and ready to go

Limited availability onsite day of event

Simply Great Picnics for Pre-Order

Made by Chef Dorset from Capers Tap House

Pre-order 48 hours minimum before the performance. Order online at westben.ca/eat-play-stay or by calling the Box Office 877-883-5777

Westben is a place where nature, music and community come together. It’s set in a beautiful, rolling meadow in the territory of the Michi Saagiig (Mississauga) Anishinaabeg also known as Northumberland County. The birds, frogs, and breezes have always been a part of the concert experience since The Barn was built in 2000. Now, as we recognize the threats to biodiversity and other intersecting environmental challenges around us, Westben would like to be a more responsible steward for the environment and promote sustainable and equitable living in the area. In April 2022, we started our Sustainability Team. While it may be a ‘drop in the ocean’ considering our planetary climate crisis, it’s been highly fulfilling to come together with folks and local community organizations interested in caring for the long-term health of this special place.

If you are interested in joining our sustainability team, we would love to have you! Commitment is flexible based on your capacity and any background is welcomed. Maybe you’re more interested in the planning and visioning of what holistic sustainability might mean? Perhaps then you’d like to join our monthly meetings to update, co-create and implement our sustainability action plan and exchange dreams. Or maybe you’re more interested in sharing or picking up new skills on the ground, getting your hands dirty? Perhaps then you’d like to help our birdhouse and bird habitat project to protect at-risk birds on the property, or help plant native flowers with our hula hoop garden project, or assist in our early attempts at a circular waste station. Please email ben@westben.ca for more information.

Adopt a Birdhouse

$250 to $500 or ask about a tree. Contact the Box Office for details.

Where to Eat

Antonia’s Bistro

Antonia’s Bistro is an Italian restaurant in the heart of Campbellford. Lunch includes appetizers, artisan sandwiches and classic Italian dishes such as Meatballs and Spaghetti, and Chicken Parmesan. The dinner service offers fine dining experience with a good selection of wines, pastas and variety of meat dishes, from Osso Bucco to Grilled Lamb Chops and Ribeye Steak.the freshness and authentic flavours of the food and the warm hospitality of the place makes Antonia’s the restaurant of choice for many of our locals and visitors. Reservations are recommended.

28 Doxsee Avenue South, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

705-632-0505 | AntoniasBistro.com

Caper’s

Tap House

Enjoy great, casual dining amidst eclectic décor or relax on our patio. You will enjoy a unique menu and daily features highlighting our locally sourced meat and produce. Select beer on tap and fine wines served.

28 Bridge Street West, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

705-653-5262 | CapersRestaurant.ca

Chubby’s

Family Restaurant

Delicious homemade “smorg” from soup to desserts. Buffet Roast Beef dinner with soup and salad and six kinds of homemade pies, tea, coffee. Groups welcome. County Road 8, Hoard’s Station, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

705-653-2908 | ChubbysRestaurant.ca

Ds Modern Caribbean Restaurant

Ds Modern Caribbean is a fine dining restaurant serving Caribbean Cuisine with a modern flair. Ds must try options are their rotis, jerk and creole rice dishes as well as delicious fish and vegetable small plates. Trinidadian cuisine at its finest! Open Wednesday to Saturday 11 am to 3 pm. Extended hours during the summer months.

27 Front Street North, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

705-400-7271 | Facebook & Instragram@dsislandshack

52 North Pub & Grill

Come and check us out! Meet our amazing staff and dine in our cozy rustic atmosphere or have a seat on our waterfront patio overlooking the Trent River. With our fresh, handcrafted, and endless menu options there is something for the whole family. Enjoy a cold glass of our local craft beer, classic cocktail, wines etc. See you for lunch or dinner. Your table is ready!

52 Front Street North, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

705-653-3939 | Facebook @52northpubandgrill

The Dockside Bistro

Experience Campbellford’s best restaurant with a waterfront patio! Set in a beautiful historic building on the Trent Severn Waterway, we offer a vast array of options including flavours from around the world as well as Vegan & Gluten Free items. We use locally sourced ingredients to prepare real, fresh quality food such as Greek Chicken Souvlaki, Montreal Smoked Meat Sandwich & Poutine as well as our famous Butter Chicken and so much more. Local Craft Beer on tap. Our friendly & knowledgeable staff are here to offer you a comfortable & welcoming upscale casual dining experience.

67 Queen Street, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

705-653-3737 | info@thedocksidebistro.com | TheDocksideBistro.com

Villa Conti

Come experience a taste of Italy under the Northumberland sun at Villa Conti. This hidden gem offers rustic italian cuisine inspired by Tommaso’s rural upbringing. Enjoy some Italian meats and cheeses, or homemade pasta with Villa Conti wine or other international vintages in our relaxing barn setting restaurant or on the balcony overlooking the vineyard.

337 Covert Hill Road, Warkworth, K0K 3K0 705-924-1829 | villaconti.co

Explore your senses in Trent Hills

While you are here, be sure to explore our colourful neighbourhood! After the Concert, stay for dinner and stay the night, and explore the three charming towns that make up Trent Hills (Campbellford, Hastings and Warkworth), each with its own unique tastes, sights & shopping. Browse eclectic boutiques and amazing local artwork and discover an array of culinary delights. Don’t miss Ferris Provincial Park, complete with its breathtaking suspension bridge over Ranney Gorge on the Trent River. Explore one of the historic lift locks nearby, or follow the Flavour Trail to the many wonderful eateries, specialty food shops and microbreweries. Welcome to the best of small-town Ontario!

For more information on accommodation and dining in Trent Hills & area, please visit: VisitTrentHills.ca | NorthumberlandTourism.com | KawarthasNorthumberland.ca TheKawarthas.ca | BayOfQuinte.ca

Where to Stay

Bed Yoga Breakfast

Nestled in the rolling hills and hardwood forests of Trent Hills is a peaceful oasis bed and breakfast, also home to an animal sanctuary, where all life is treated equally. Your stay includes gentle morning yoga and a delicious plant-based breakfast. Come refill your well in this relaxed historic farmhouse setting! We offer accommodations and host retreats for up to 10 people! Ethically vegan!

1969 Burnbrae Rd. East Campbellford, K0L 1L0 705-653-BEDS (2337) | bedyogabreakfast.ca

Fells Meadows Farms

Nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, Fells Meadows offers charming accommodations including a 6 bedroom farmhouse and quaint cabins, called ‘Havens’. Immersing in nature features include trails, a yurt and stone labyrinth on 100 acres of rolling hills and forests. We’re within a short drive of quaint towns and attractions including Westben. We warmly invite you for a memorable getaway.

2429 County Rd 25, Castleton, K0K 1M0 905-344-5014 | fellsmeadows.com

Spaulding Guest House

Situated in the heart of Campbellford, this Victorian Gem shows off is splendor with beautiful gardens and a peaceful backyard view of the historic Trent River. Four guest rooms including the Tuscan room with Ensuite and special Music Room. Guests may prepare their meals in house in the retro kitchenette and Butler’s Pantry or choose to dine out. Since 2006, visitors from all over the world have stayed at the Spaulding Guest House to explore Trent Hills and its attractions and beauty.

60 Front Street North, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

705-653-5234 | susancherylaustring@gmail.com | Facebook@SpauldingGuestHouse

The Water’s Edge Inn

The Water’s Edge Inn takes pride in providing a luxurious level of comfort within Campbellford and the Trent Hills region. Our Riverside Inn features gorgeous waterfront views and immediate access to the Trent-Severn Waterway. With modern, stylish furnishingscomplete with beds wrapped in quality linens, you can relax and enjoy this serene setting. Each room’s modern bathroom has premium bath and beauty amenities, quality towels and comfortable bathrobes.

149 Queen Street, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

705-653-4470 | thewatersedgeinn.ca

Friends of Westben Membership

Through music we connect. Through Membership we thrive.

Membership at Westben is about taking care of what you love.

Members play a major role in promoting the well-being and vitality of this amazing organization. Financial support enables us to develop innovative, engaging programming while helping us to commit to a roster of wonderful guest artists. And it helps us sustain our resources from people to venues.

But just as important, Members provide the wind in our sails! Members demonstrate that they share our belief in and commitment to the joyful impact of Westben’s work: the transformative power of coming together through music.

Memberships are available from $50 (Cupola Level) to $5,000+ (Raspberry Patch) and beyond. Student Members are also available for $15.

All Memberships of $50 or more receive a Charitable Tax Receipt and are eligible to vote at the Annual General Meeting. In addition, all Members receive:

• Advance notification of events & ticket purchasing opportunities

• Complimentary ticket exchange privileges

• A subscription to the Members’ Newsletter: Around the ‘Ben

• An invitation to join and enjoy Members’ Facebook page

• Recognition on the Members’ Page of the Westben website

• Westben’s heartiest thanks!

For more on Membership, please visit westben.ca/membership or call the Box Office 1-877-883-5777

The Schoolhouse Capital Campaign

2023 Ticket Prices

ASK about Pick 3 & Pick 5 Discounts – applicable until May 31

On to Phase 2!

Ring the Bell!! We are overjoyed to announce that we have reached our initial fundraising goal of $400,000 to support Phase 1 of the Westben Schoolhouse Project!

It may have been dark times, but a whole community of supporters held high the Torch of Possibility! 388 donations were received from donors whose names are now permanently added to the Attendance Board at the Schoolhouse.

We are also thankful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation and to the Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group L.E.A.F. Initiative. And a very special thank-you to the Board for their lead donation of $40,000 to get the bell swinging!!

Phase 1 of the West Schoolhouse Project included the acquisition of the West Schoolhouse, along with basic upgrades. Ahead, Phase 2 seeks to increase the public use, safety and accessibility of the space such as accessible washrooms and entrance, box office and storage space so the Main Room can accommodate community gathering more effectively, hospitality services, artist services, etc.

We heartily welcome you to support Phase 2 through a tax-deductible donation. Join us today!

For more information, please call Alannah at the Westben Box Office 877 883 5777 or visit westben.ca/schoolhouse-campaign

$5 Youth Under 18 tickets

$30 Under 30 tickets

*Save

Purchasing Tickets/How To Order

ONLINE: WESTBEN.CA | Visa or Mastercard – Open 24/7

BY PHONE: 705-653-5508 or 1-877-883-5777 – Open Monday to Friday, between 10 AM - 4 PM and 90 minutes prior to performances

BY MAIL: P.O. Box 1413, Campbellford, Ontario, Canada K0L 1L0

BOX OFFICE: The West Schoolhouse, 6788 County Road 30, Campbellford, ON

Open Tuesday to Friday, 10 AM - 4 PM (check website for holiday closures)

THE TICKET SHED AT PERFORMANCE VENUES:

6698 Country Road 30 North, Campbellford, ON. Open 90 minutes prior to performances and during intermission.

BOOK EARLY & SAVE!

Discounts valid until May 31 ST

Pick 3 different concerts – Save up to 8% Pick 5 different – Save up to 10% Season Pass – buy 16 or more different concerts and save 16%

Note: subscriptions apply only when the same number of tickets are purchased for each concert. Only available by calling the Box Office. Some restrictions apply.

GROUPS

BOOK 20 or more tickets to any single Westben Summer or Fall concert and save 11% off regular or senior priced tickets. Two complimentary tickets per group. Visit westben.ca/groups for group policies.

MEADOW PASSES

Meadow Passes: Half price for Barn concerts only! Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the music just outside The Barn doors. Sold 1.5 hours prior to most concerts, weather permitting. Please note Meadow Passes are not available to all shows. Please confirm with the Box Office. 1-877-883-5777

Getting to Westben

TICKET POLICIES

Restrictions may apply to any ticket purchase. Please confirm prices with the Box Office.

Prices listed do not include HST or the $6 service fee.

There are no refunds on ticket purchases, however, exchanges can be made up to 8 hours before a performance for $6. Ticket Exchanges are free to Westben Members. Exchange fees are waived in cases of illness related to COVID.

For full Ticket Policies and FAQs, visit westben.ca/ticket-policies

We are so excited to welcome you back to Westben!

Imagine reveling in the beautiful music and inviting nature, saying hello to friendly people and of course, visiting the daisies! It’s all here waiting for you – and our number one priority remains your safety and comfort. Please visit westben.ca/covid-protocls to learn more.

Located 3 km northwest of Campbellford on County Road 30 in the Municipality of Trent Hills, Northumberland County. 2 hours east of Toronto; 40 minutes from Belleville, Cobourg or Peterborough; 90 minutes northwest of Kingston; 2.5 hours southwest of Ottawa.

PERFORMANCE VENUES

The Barn Willow Hill The Campfire

6698 County Road 30 North, Campbellford, ON Canada, K0L 1L0

The Schoolhouse

BOX OFFICE: The West Schoolhouse, 6788 County Road 30, Campbellford, ON Open Tuesday to Friday, 10 AM - 4 PM (check website for holiday closures)

THE TICKET SHED AT PERFORMANCE VENUES:

6698 Country Road 30 North, Campbellford, ON. Open 90 minutes prior to performances at The Barn and during intermission.

WESTBEN IS ACCESSIBLE

The Barn, Willow Hill and The Campfire venues have accessible parking and friendly golf cart chauffeuring are complimentary!

There are no steps into The Barn or into the washrooms. The Schoolhouse has 3 steps. We ask that wheelchair users advise the Box Office when tickets are booked. Please contact Westben for more information.

Tel: 705-653-5508 or toll free 1-877-883-5777

westben.ca/contact

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“If you haven’t been to Westben yet – run don’t walk. It is a special place and a real gem.” — Chris McKool