Some people in each community listen carefully, ask probing questions and trust their member of Council to keep them up to date on what is happening in their community and to protect the best the community has.
Every member of a city council has their own unique style; something that defines who they are and the way they see their job.
In Burlington there are a number of different political styles. Councillor Marianne Meed Ward was once out on Christmas Day picking up garbage when a resident called her t complain.
During the flood last August Ward 4 Councillor Jack Dennison walked into hundreds of basements to personally see the damage done.
Ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman put his heart on his sleeve when her spoke to a group of Rotarians during the Rubfest launch and pleaded for help for the people in his community.
Ward 3 Councillor John Taylor doesn’t hold meetings for his constituents – they are more like family get togethers – he has been in office that long.
Blair Lancaster – almost holding court with her constituents at a corn roast.
Blair Lancaster in ward 6 tends to have two different public styles; one that gets used for those south of Dundas and another that gets used when she is politicking north of Dundas; there is nothing duplicitous ion this approach – she is dealing with two different mind sets and adjust her message to meet her understanding of each community.
Ward 1 Councillor Rick Craven, who gave up talking to the Gazette when we wrote something about him he didn’t like, held a community meeting.
Last Wednesday evening Councillor Craven held a community meeting to talk about the 324 townhouse project on Masonry Court being developed by the ADI Group. It wasn’t a particularly unpopular project – the meeting didn’t cheer when the presentation was over – they just thought the developer could do something that was more “livable” and “imaginative”. “Not very creative” was the most stinging comment. He was speaking to an audience of about 40 people who were for the most part involved in their community and wanted to know more.
Councillor told them that the population of Aldershot had grown by just 4000 people in the last 15 years and that without more in the way of growth the chances of there ever seeing a grocery store in the west end of the community were very slim.
Rick Craven: Best committee chair the city has; not big on the warm fuzzy stuff through. Needs a hug badly.
Ward 1 Councillor Rick Craven – seems to have forgotten everything he knew about the ADI project on Martha at Lakeshore Road.
The meeting was just like most community meetings in Aldershot; people listened and asked questions and for the most part got fair answers.
Until ..
Until one woman asked the speaker from the ADI Group to tell her a little about the company – she’d never heard of them before.
The company representative told their story – sort of. He skirted totally the situation with the 28 storey application that ADI had made to the city for an application at the corner of Martha and Lakeshore Road which the city and planning department was completely against – including Councillor Craven.
The ADI Group’s 28 storey development proposal on the downtown core was not mentioned at a meeting about their Masonry Court development.
The rules that govern development applications are such that if the planning department doesn’t do something with an application the developer can take their case to the Ontario Municipal Board. Burlington city council didn’t get to vote formally on the project within that 180 day window.
On the 181st day ADI had taken their case to the OMB.
The project is one that the city feels is a mistake from a development point of view and has been consistently vocal about.
But not a word about this issue from Councillor Craven when a constituent asked to know more about the company.
Councillor Craven had an obligation to tell his constituents that there was a problem with a major ADI development application and they were playing a very sharp game – albeit within the rules of the game.
Craven’s behavior gives a whole new definition to politicians being in bed with developers.
WHAT: The Naked Craft Network is an international research project that brings together the best of contemporary Canadian and Scottish craft. and the general public to discuss the themes explored throughout the Naked Craft Project, and to look forward to the future of craft.
Saturday – 10 to 4 – Naked Artists take over the AGB.
WHEN and WHERE: Saturday, June 27, 2015 from 10am – 5pm at the Art Gallery of Burlington
The word Naked certainly caught my attention. Tell me more.
Speakers
Denis Longchamps – curator at the AGB will be speaking at the symposium
• Dr. Sandra Alfoldy, Professor of Craft History at Nova Scotia College of Art & Design (NSCAD) University and Associate Curator of Fine Craft at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia • Dr. Denis Longchamps, Chief Curator, Art Gallery of Burlington • Aaron Nelson, Associate Director, Medalta Museum • Emma Quin, CEO, Craft Canada • Dr. Heather Read, Postdoctoral Fellow, Ryerson University • Dr. Susan Surette, Postdoctoral Fellow, NSCAD University • Arno Verhoeven, Lecturer, University of Edinburgh School of Design and Sr. Tutor at the Edinburgh College of Art
Artists
• Jeanette Sendler (Scotland) – Hat maker, costume design and fibre artist, Sendler’s interest in costume design developed into performance art featuring large-‐scale installations, rendered in knit/felt on paper.
• Beth Legg (Scotland) -‐ An artist from the Highlands of Scotland, her practice is concerned with landscape, memory and the language of materials. Her work as a precious metalsmith has been included in numerous international publications.
• Aaron Nelson (Canada) – In addition to an active studio practice, Aaron is the Associate Director at Medalta in Medicine Hat, Alberta. This position has allowed him to develop relationships with a regional, national and international community of makers, and thus contextualize the diversity of contemporary approaches to ceramic practice.
• Other Artists: Sarah Alford, Jennifer Cantwell, Caroline Dear, Amanda McCavour, Kevin Andrew Morris, Clint Neufeld and Kari Woo
A John Willard quilt part of a recent show at the Art Gallery of Burlington
Naked Craft Symposium Event Schedule
AM 9:00 to 10:00: Registration and complimentary continental breakfast 10:00 to 10:10 Welcoming remarks Robert Steven, CEO and President of the Art Gallery of Burlington 10:10 to 11:00 North and Identity panel Presenter and moderator: Heather Read Participants: Kari Woo, Amanda McCavour, Beth Legg and Kevin Andrew Morris 11:00 to 11:20 Pause 11:20 to 12:10 Tradition and Craft panel Presenter and moderator: Susan Surette Participants: Sarah Alford, Jennifer Cantwell, Caroline Dear, Jeanette Sendler and Clint Neufeld PM 12:10 to 1:00 Complimentary buffet lunch Naked Craft in Discussion *Speakers & Artists available for interviews 1:00 to 1:20 New Positions, Denis Longchamps 1:20 to 1:40 Tooling up, Aaron Nelson 1:40 to 2:00 DIY (Do-‐It-‐Yourself), Sandra Alfoldy 2:00 to 2:30 Moderated discussion Moderators: Heather Read and Susan Surette 2:30 to 2:50 Pause 3:00 to 4:00 Keynote: Making MAKING Matter, Aaron Nelson 4:00 to 4:15 Question period 4:15 to 4:30 Closing remarks, Emma Quin, CEO Craft Ontario 5:00 to 7:00 Official opening of Naked Craft Curators: Sandra Alfoldy, Denis Longchamps, Juliette MacDonald, Emma Quin, Arno Verhoeven
Up to this point I still didn’t know much about what was taking place over at the Art Gallery – needed to do a little research to bring myself up to speed as it were on what the artists are up to these days.
Naked Craft is designed to be playful in how it engages a public audience; at a time in popular culture when the words “handcrafted” and “artisanal” are the “it” words of marketing houses, attention must be redirected back to craft itself. Craft is a sexy word, and Naked Craft intends to show the viewer just how sexy craft itself can be. Naked Craft examines craft practice through the four main themes: New Positions; Down and Dirty: politics and materials; DIY; and Tooling up: new technologies and economies.
Naked Craft looks to contribute towards a better understanding of continuity and change within the discipline. It is evident that despite the cultural diversity and obstacles that influence craft making in Canada, in Scotland, and around the world, there are many similarities and shared values that influence the craft sector. In Canada we’re putting forth a concerted effort toward public outreach and new ways of presenting craft to audiences as diverse as the communities of craft makers whom we support. With an increase in the awareness of contemporary craft and an understanding of its value, comes the potential of increased sales, consumption, recognition and promotion for both makers and their objects. As such, both the individuals creating craft as well as those consuming it are rewarded with culturally enriching experiences, which support the local economy and encourage a focus on high-quality craft objects that are lasting and well made.
Naked Craft has spanned almost four years of research in two countries and includes two workshop/residencies, three symposiums, a touring exhibition and a publication. The NCN is interested in broadly developing a better understanding of the relationships between the identities that are inherently attributed to geopolitical regions of practice, and the reciprocal role that the material production of craft plays in building, maintaining and disseminating these identities in a global arena of commerce and culture in the future.
Oh – so they aren’t running around the grounds stark naked – nope they are just doing craft stuff with a newer, sexier name.
The 100 Women Who Care Burlington welcomes women of all ages to become a member. They came together Wednesday evening to once again to select a charitable organization to support.
The room at the Burlington Golf and Country Club was filled with members and three excited and hopeful recipients. I spoke with Marion Goard, one of the co-founders. She was enthusiastic and passionate about the success of the organization.
The other co-founders are Megan Healey, Laurel Hubber, Wendy Saunders and Tara Stanford. This extraordinary organization began in 2012 and are now over 80 member strong. They bring together women who truly care about the Burlington community.
It was evident there was passion, commitment and dedication from the members. The members were so pleased to be able to support local charities in the Burlington Community. 100 Women Who Care Burlington meets four times a year and each member donates $100 to the winning recipient nominated by a member.
The recipient introduces their charity and shares their goals. The members listen to each recipient. They then vote for one of the three charities and once the winner is chosen; each member writes a cheque for $100.00. It is a very simple process with successful results.
Catherine Pegg and Jacqueline Holmes of the Alzheimer Society of Burlington were recipients at the last meeting. They talked to the woman who donated so generously about how the group will use the donation to help them launch the Music for Memory Program that will be run by Jacqueline Holmes.
The winning recipient at the Wednesday meeting was Catherine Thomson of Community Living Burlington. She was so happy to be receiving the donation for her charity.
If you have a charity ‘close to your heart’ then I suggest becoming a member of 100 Women Who Care Burlington – ‘they will welcome you with open arms.’ Raising money for your charity has never been so liberating and effortless. There are so many causes and charities in the Burlington community who benefit from the support of these caring women.
At the end of the meeting Marion thanked everyone for attending . She also spoke highly of the members and the dedicated support they continuously give to the Burlington community. The group would like to reach the 100 member level on which the name is based; help by telling your girlfriends, sisters, nieces, aunts, mothers and grandmothers to join today.
It is a truly “Magical” feeling to know exactly which charity your donations are supporting. To learn more about 100 Women Who Care Burlington check out their website
School is out – and the kids will be around the house and perhaps underfoot for the next two months.
With school out – the kids get excited and their behaviour changes. Mom and Dad must have just loved this picture.
The Rocca Sisters, a Burlington real estate company have used this occasion to give back to the community by being the primary sponsor for the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation Stars under the Stars Movie Event!
Bring the family for a FREE outdoor movie, Night at the Museum – Secret of the Tomb, rescheduled for this Thursday, June 25th at Emerson Park (2390 Sutton Drive, Burlington).
The event begins at 7:30 p.m., with the movie starting at dusk. Join us for food trucks, popcorn and more!
The Kick Off took place, the parade was held and the Pan Am flame was lit on the Sound of Music stage – that means the festival has begun – right?
The restaurants set out their chairs believing it isn’t going to rain – and it didn’t. Brant Street becomes a place with no cars – where people take things easy.
The length of the Sound of Music Festival is no longer as clear as it used to be – something to think about when they begin planning for next year.
For 2015 – it’s going to be a great show. During the day it is very much everyone in the family event. The evenings get set aside for the younger crowd.
The pictures tell the story.
She was giving it her best shot – and she made it.
It was a tough climb – tougher than this young man expected – he didn’t make it to the top
Does the man with the butcher shop know about the guy parked right outside his door?
Vendors line all the walkways offering every imaginable taste bud treat and toys you didn’t think existed. The bubble gun attracted our attention.
The Ferris wheel is in place, the crowds are gathering and the Sound of Music is about to begin – weather is holding wonderfully.
It was a little chaotic – many people weren’t sure what was going on but when Mark Oldershaw finally got to the stage to light the cauldron with the flame of the Pan Am torch he was carrying, people knew that the Pan Am Games were not far off and that for Burlington the flame was bright and alive.
Mark Oldershaw, an Olympic paddler gets ready to be lit up by Ashley Worobec as he prepares to take the Pan Am flame to the Sound of Music stage.
Burlington’s Ashley Worobec handed over the flame to Oldershaw at a point on the Naval Promenade – it was tough to see the two – there were almost more police than spectators. Those police officers must have thought they were protecting some world leader.
Worobec looked a little lost in the crowd of people – and the uniform they gave her to run in certainly lacked for any style.
The Burlington Teen Tour Band Den Mother helps a band member get the uniform put together.
But the Torch did arrive – ushered in by the Burlington Teen Tour Band who did themselves and the city proud.
I don’t how much money the city spends on the Band but whatever it is – we are getting our money’s worth.
For those who knew what was going on – there was a level of expectation. I suspect many thought that Ashley Worobec was going to take the flame up onto the stage.
Mark Oldershaw uses the Pan Am flame to light the cauldron on the Sound of Music stage. The games begin next week.
Mark Oldershaw certainly has a bigger public profile and he is an Olympian but the people of Burlington chose Ashley Worobec – didn’t they?
The Olympian got to take the torch to the Sound of Music stage. The Gazette may have been the only media to capture that moment on video –click to see the event.
A path was created for Oldershaw to run through while the crowd cheered him on.
When he got to the stage the emcee wanted to create some drama and excitement and asked Oldershaw to give him one word that described his feelings for the games that were going to soon begin.
Oldershaw paused, looked reflective and said – he really had two words that would be separated with a hyphen and then in a decent yell – shouted.
Kick Ass!
The audience went for that one
There is never any doubt where this band comes from – our very own.
The politicians of course spoke, the sponsors found a way to deliver their message and then the Teen Tour Band took everyone through the singing of O’Canada.
Police security was so heavy it was difficult to see the torch bearers. In this picture there are at least five police officers – was this necessary?
It was a fitting way to close an event that was fun, if a little chaotic – but why all those police officers.
Did someone at police headquarters really think we were at risk.
The city decided to spend some of our tax money on gussying up parts of the city. Norton Park had a lovely stretch of wall that was just dying for the hand of an artist.
Through its public art program, the city selected artist collective, PA System (Patrick Thompson and Alexa Hatanaka), to install the mural in Norton Community Park.
“The mural will provide a sense of community pride in Alton,” said Scott Stewart, general manager of development and infrastructure. “We look forward to seeing the mural..” he said.
Art outdoors on a lovely late Spring day spells photo op – and sure enough the city’s media managers scheduled such an event.
The is the eastern side of the wall. while we were photographing this collection of high school students from Hayden High happened along and we knew instantly that we had a real photo opportunity.
The Gazette frowns on photo ops just for the sake of getting your picture in the paper – but we thought the art was worth sharing with a wider public. So we travelled up to Dundas to see how the northern half of Burlington lives and walked through the park to see what had been done.
You don’t have to walk very far to get the gist of the mural – colour – it just screams of colour on a wall that is easily 20 feet long and 10 feet high – with two sides to put paint on.
Artists were asked to consider student involvement, community diversity and the wide range of uses for the site in their concept development and installation process. The city’s public art program steering committee received 23 mural applications and shortlisted three artists: Charles Johnston, Lesia Mokrycke and PA System (Alexa Hatanaka and Patrick Thompson).
“Resident-submitted comments guided the jury’s selection and were considered in addition to artistic merit, technical considerations and student engagement around each finalist’s work,” said Angela Paparizo, the City of Burlington’s manager of arts and culture.
Burlington residents were able to view and comment on the proposals during Culture Days in September, at Haber Recreational Centre, and online. The community jury reviewed the feedback, including 340 comments, along with the artistic and technical merits of each proposal to make their selection.
“PA System’s past experience working with community members to create unique and inspiring murals is impressive,” said the jury’s statement. “The use of bold colours and patterns will create a year-round focal point for the park and the abstract nature of the design allows for a broad range of interpretations, allowing each viewer to connect to the work in their own way.”
It was built as a wall to shelter people from the wind and turned out to be a great place for a mural. This is the inside of the wall
About the Artists
PA System, which is comprised of artists Alexa Hatanaka and Patrick Thompson, have a broad background in community-based art projects, youth projects and mentorship. For the past 10 years, Hatanaka and Thompson have worked on a range of visual arts projects in the arctic. They have created numerous murals in the hamlets of Cape Dorset, Igloolik, Iqaluit and Hall Beach as well as in the Northern Quebec towns of Kangiqsujuaq and Kuujjuaq, and have facilitated youth projects at York University, the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health, and the National Gallery.
Hatanaka and Thompson exhibit and paint murals across Canada and around the world. Their work can be seen in the Royal Ontario Museum, the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona and the Guanlan International Printmaking Base.
The high school students who posed for our photo op thought it was great work and pulled out their cell phone and asked that we take pictures of them with the art work.
Real photo ops.
The Nelson Wading Pool and Splash Pads are open, weather dependent, Saturday, June 13 to Monday, Sept. 7.
The pool was scheduled to open for the 2015 summer season. As part of preparing for the summer opening, city staff conducted a pool inspection after the winter season. The pool structure has been deemed unsafe for public use by a structural engineer. Attempts were made to see if any short term solutions could be found for this summer season however, repairs measures are too extensive. As a result, Nelson Pool will not open for the summer 2015 season.
The Tim Hortons free swims scheduled for July 6 and Aug. 9 at Nelson Pool will be relocated to Centennial Pool, 5151 New St.
The July 6 swim will run from 1:30 to 4 p.m. and the Aug. 9 swim will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Burlington Sound of Music Kick-Off came alive at the Waterfront. It could not have been a more perfect weekend. The hot Saturday sun beat down on the Burlington Sound of Music Festival while the beat of the concert music played to a high energy crowd.
Head banging with style – or the photo op of the day. Whichever – the sound drove the crowds wild at the Saturday SoM Kick Off.
The crowds of adoring fans arrived in droves to watch their favourite bands. The food trucks lined up along the boardwalk. The Waterfront was busy with boats anchored to listen to the music. Everyone showed up to enjoy this event; families, dog lovers, teens, people of all ages came out to support the Burlington Sound of Music Festival Kick Off.
As I walked through the main gate I could see the teams of volunteers attending to everything from ticket scanners to assisting people and answering questions. I ran into Ted Mills, ‘really I had to move to avoid being run over by him’ Ted wore a bright yellow t-shirt with the words “Event Control”.
I asked him if he had a few minutes to chat with me. I asked him how long he had been a volunteer with the event. He smiled and said “14 years’. Ted told me he was very proud of the event and felt this was a great event for Burlington to host. Ted loves what he does and this is his way to give back to the Burlington Community.
I also had a chance to chat very briefly with the Ticket Scanner volunteer. She smiled and told me this event was great. She explained the ticket scanning was a great idea; and a great way to keep the line ups moving quickly so everyone could get to their concerts. .
I was excited to be joining the other photographers and journalists who were taking photos of Burlington’s own Finger Eleven as they performed. We all gathered by the front gate waiting to be escorted by the media coordinator to the media pit. We hung
our cameras over our shoulders and got “ready to aim snap and capture” the band Finger Eleven in concert.
Fingers 11 – working that instrument at the Sound of Music Kick Off on Saturday.
Finger Eleven was introduced to the excited fans by the Host of CHCH news anchor Nick Dixon. The band was formed in 1989. The first guitarist came out whaling his electric guitar joining the drummer and base guitarist. Then we all got a real treat, a ‘head banging” show from the guitarist.
As he began to play his guitar he was hidden behind his long long black hair. His hair flew in the air as he dropped his head back and forth to the sound of his guitar. Throughout each song he bounced across the stage with such energy; the loud applause and cheers could be heard for miles. Finger Eleven was one of many concerts during the Burlington Sound of Music Kick Off this past weekend.
There were fans standing inside the media ‘Pit’ as well. Concert go-ers wishing to get real close to their favourite band; could do so by purchasing a $60.00 ticket plus another $25.00 which gave them access to the ‘Pit’. “Yes you could stand inches from the stage.”
This apparently is the first time the Sound of Music has asked for payment to gather at favoured spots right up close to the stage – where we were told when we could click our cameras and when we couldn’t.
Historically the Sound of Music has been a free event – is there a change in policy in the works? Could we see the Sound of Music as a fully ticketed event in the future?
Kristin and Justin Butler; owners of the Chimneys food truck doing their first SoM event.
I noticed long line ups at the food trucks. So, I took a few minutes to chat with Kristin and Justin Butler; owners of the Chimneys food truck. This was their first time at the Burlington Sound of Music Kick-Off and found the energy invigorating.
I was able to chat with David Miller, Executive Director of the Burlington Sound of Music. He was a very busy man this weekend. According to David, there were a few unexpected glitches; this only meant they will look closely at how to avoid future issues. Concentrating on making it even a better experience. He is very proud of the event which he has been heading up for nine years.
This was the Fourth year of the Burlington Sound of Music Kick-Off. I asked David who was the brainchild behind the idea for a Ticketed Event. He told me it was a ‘collaborative effort’.
He explained how the Burlington community and others have been asking for a bigger and better concert line-up. David was able to fill that request by adding bands such as: Our Lady Peace, Finger Eleven, Collective Soul and David Wilcox, to name a few. He also mentioned that the ‘Free’ weekend at the Burlington Sound of Music has also been a success.
During the ‘Free’ weekend there were a few options: the Front Row Concert Tickets cost $25.00; the Sweet VIP Concert Tickets cost $100; this includes a drink and a meal.
Every year the money raised goes to a different recipient. This year the recipient is the Joseph Brant Hospital, Music Therapy.
The Art Gallery of Burlington auction pulled in $60,000 during its recent Art Auction – the Bateman went for $6,000 and Reid Flock’s piece “Basking Denim Noise Paint” went for $1,000.
Newly minted AGB President Robert Steven has had a good first month – $60,000 ahead of the game. Hopefully it is still uphill from here.
Art collectors are known for the attention they pay to the Burlington auction because they know there is usually a Bateman included – and they make a point of taking a look and then usually bidding by telephone.
Robert Bateman’s piece “Kestral and Balsam Poplar” went for $6,000 which is a little on the low side for Bateman’s work.
The 200 different pieces of art that sold for $200 each was a popular choice for many that were just getting into art collecting.
The 200 for $200 seemed to be a very popular event – it was limited to local artists who had a chance to get there work in front of a wide, informed audience. The proof in that pudding will be next year – let’s see if the event makes the cut – it should.
Burlington has a number of high priced, high end galas – the AGB appears to have an opportunity to hold an event that could focus on the arts – no one else occupies that space. Creating a theme for the evening seemed to please most people – what will the creative minds of Johnathan Smith and Denis Longchamps come up with for next year?
Even though the city isn’t taking any official part in the Pan Am Games the residents of the city are being given an opportunity to ignite their Pan Am spirit and celebrate the Pan Am Games on Pan Am/Parapan Am Day in Canada on June 13 in LaSalle Park.
Competitors are showered with colour powders as they participate in the Color Run. There will be different locations where coloured powders are thrown over the runners.
Burlington is going to do its best to get into the Pan Am Games spirit by hosting a fun-filled day for families to experience Pan Am inspired sports from local partners and take place in a Pan Am inspired Colour Run.”
The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features:
• Kids Pan/Parapan Am inspired sports • Inflatables • Colour Run at noon • A 52-foot (16-metre) long Slip and Slide • Food vendors • Free admission to LaSalle Wading Pool
The Colour Run is an accessible one-kilometre route in LaSalle Park. Participants are encouraged to wear a white T-shirt they would like ‘coloured’ with the safe, non-toxic powder that participants will be coated in as they complete the course.
Those wishing to visit the LaSalle Wading Pool after the Colour Run will be required to rinse off in the Slip and Slide before entering the pool enclosure.
Will Torch bearer Ashley Worobec take part in the colour run at LaSalle |Park on Saturday the 13th?
The question the Gazette has is – will Torch carrier Ashley Worobec be doing the colour run the week before she runs through Spencer Smith Park with the Torch?
Limited parking is available at LaSalle Park with additional parking available at Aldershot Pool, 50 Fairwood Place W.
The Conservation Authority sent out water level warnings for the creeks that run into the city from the Escarpment.
The city decided that all clay diamonds and select soccer fields are to be closed to due water Tuesday, June 9, 2015
All clay diamonds are closed the evening of Tuesday, June 9:
Ireland Park: D1, D2, D3, D4 Millcroft Park: D1 and D2 Nelson Park: D1 Other diamonds are “as is” condition as there may be some puddles on the infields
The following rectangular fields are closed the evening of Tuesday, June 9: Maple Park Tansley Woods Park Sherwood Forest Park: F5 Central Park: F1
Less laundry for the parents if the playing fields are closed – what to do with the kids? The parents will figure that out.
It takes place in two cities – Burlington is one of them,
The site covers several thousand acres – 2700 to be exact.
The event will take place on three different days
It has the rather pedestrian name of Panorama – however it can turn out to be quite an experience.
Called the Panorama Adventure Challenge Sport it is a run that cover either a 3 km or 5 km distance designed to teach team building and problem solving.
It is intended for any age and can be done at any pace.
Opera and the Sound of Music? It’s going to happen – not out in Spencer Smith Park but inside the Knox Presbyterian Church, 461 Elizabeth St.
The Magic Flute was performed by the Canadian Children Opera Company. Burlington will hear a cabaret of their work June 13th
The performance is being put on by the Canadian Children’s Opera Company, (CCOC) an opera company for young people, unique in North America, dedicated to the training of young singers with an annual commissioned opera for young people from ages 5 – 20.
The CCOC’s youth chorus will present Opera Cabaret at Knox Presbyterian on June 13th conducted by two of Canada’s most treasured music educators, Ann Cooper Gay and composer, Errol Gay. CCOC members are regularly seen on stage at COC productions and is supported by various organizations including the Ontario Arts Council.
The 30 voice strong, Youth Chorus performs Opera Cabaret which marks the first performance of the CCOC in Burlington and will feature excerpts from Alice in Wonderland.
WHY IS THIS SO SPECIAL?
The CCOC is a major training ground for Canada’s future opera singers. And one of them is year is Burlington’s Lori Lewis, currently a student at Aldershot High School, a brilliant young talent whose musical roots are right here in our city and who will join an opera training programme this summer in Italy before he returns to this final year with the CCOC.
The Hobbit – a Canadian Children’s Opera Company production.
Having spent over 30 years as a singer and conductor, it was a rare treat to hear and see this young man in Alice. The voice is a tenor’s treat, warm and rich with high notes beyond what one might expect for a tenor this young. But today’s opera and music theatre world demands more than a voice and Lori Lewis has the timing of a comic, the awareness of an actor and the gift of moving his audiences. As the Mad Hatter in Alice, Lori’s performance still lingers in my memory.
This year’s sell-out event was a Canadian composed, written and staged opera, Alice in Wonderland that premiered at the Enwave Theatre at Harbour Front in Toronto to 12, sold-out, standing ovation audiences.
More details at www.canadianchildrensopera.com
Please forward this email to anyone you think would enjoy a taste of tomorrow’s Canadian musical stars.
The lobby of the Performing Arts Centre was abuzz with people last Thursday evening enjoying a complimentary glass of champagne.
Brian McCurdy, the Executive Director of the Performing Arts Centre sat in a comfortable chair on stage beside Commie Smith and talked about the line-up for 2015- 2016. Connie chatted away in that “golly, gee-whiz” style that is all her own while McCurdy provided what he called the “colour commentary”
It was impressive.
McCurdy brought years of entertainment industry experience to his job – it shows – and announced a program of which he has every reason to be very proud.
The season consists of 68 artists and companies – the biggest the Centre has ever put on in this its 5th year of operation. Some of the city’s favourites – Alex Cuba and Matt Anderson will be on the stage during the season along with some delightful surprises as well – Colm Wilkinson of Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera fame will be doing Broadway, Christmas and Beyond, an intimate and personal side of a performer not seen before.
The offerings are very strong – what makes it all work is the way McCurdy has broken the program into units that appeal to different audiences.
The Entertainer’s series Jose Feleciano and Pavlo; October 22 – 8 pm Jully Black and Jarvis Church – October 30th – 8 pm Art of Time Ensemble – Beattles Project – November 4th – 8 pm The Celtic Tenors: December 20th – 2 pm Bruce Cockburn: February 18th – 8 pm
The Blues and Rock series Lighthouse: September 26th – 8pm Pink Floyd: The Wall: February 6th – 8 pm Darlene Love: November 29th – 7:30 pm Matt Andersen: March 4th – 8pm Ruthie Foster & Harrison Kennedy: April 20th – 8 pm
The Traditional Series Irish Rovers: November 20th – 8 pm Men of the Deep: April 13th – 8 pm John McDermott: December 13th – 2:00 pm
The Dance Series Canada’s Ballet Jorge – Sleeping Beauty: October 2nd – 8 pm Proartedenza: November 11th – 8 pm Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet: February 4th – 8 pm Peggy Baker Dance Projects; Armour & Coalesce – 8 pm Hong Kong Ballet: March 8th – 8 pm
The Family Series Goodnight Moon & The Runaway Bunny: November 22nd – 2:30 pm Alice in Wonderland: January 24th – 2:30 pm Cat in the Hat: February 21st – 2:30 pm Alexander Who’s Not. Not, Not, Not, Not. Note Going to move: February 12th – 2:30 pm
The Comedy Series Howie Mandel: October 3rd – 8 pm Ron James: November 7th – 8 pm Brent Butt: November 30th 8 pm Steven Wright: February 19th – 8 pm Just for Laughs: April 7th – 8 pm
The Jazz Main Stage series The Pat Metheny Trio: September 1st – 8 pm Abduillahj Ibrahim & Ekaya: October 23rd – 8 pm Matt Dusk: November 27th – 8 pm Holly Cole: April 6th – 8 pm
The Classical Series Emanuel Ax: November 3rd – 8 pm Kitchener Waterloo Symphony Orchestra: March 5th – 8 pm Midori: April 19th – 8 pm Collectif9: May 5th – 8 pm
The Global Beat series Compania Flamenca Jose Porcel: October 15th – 8 pm Soweta Gospel Choir: December 3rd – 8 pm Jesse Cook: December 12th – 8 pm Dakhabrakha: January 29th – 8 pm YAMATO Legend of the heartbeat: February 25th – 8 pm
The Performing Arts centre has a smaller theatre that is perfect for events that need a closer relationship with an audience. Called studio 440 – it will feature
A singer song writer series Danny Michel Trio: October 2nd – 7:30 pm Fortunate Ones: NOVEMBER 6TH – 7:30 pm David Francey: March 2nd – 7:30 pm David Myles: March 12th – 7:30 pm
The 440 World Series Alex Cuba: October 17th – 7:30 pm The Once: November 21st – 7:30 pm De Danann; March 10th – 7:30 pm Sultans of String: April 8th – 7:30 pm
The 440 Jazz series Tribute to Dave Brubeck: October 16th – 7:30 pm Shine On – The Universe of John Lennon: December 15th – 7:30 pm Laila Biali: February 20th – 7:30 pm
440 is the address of the Performing Arts centre on Locust Street
Classically yours – Sunday brunch series Campbell/Afiara: October 18th – Brunch 11:45 – Show 12:30 Crow Chiu Duo: November 15th – Brunch 11:45 – show 12:30 Gryphon Trio: February 21st – Brunch 11:45 – show 12:30
The Cushion concert series Markus: Saturday October 3rd – 11:00 am and 2:00 pm Camping Royale: Saturday February 13th – 11:00 am and 2:00 pm Old Man River: Saturday March 5th – 11:00 am and 2:00 pm
Theatre series Second Life, Tottering Biped Theatre: October 22 to 24th – 7:30 pm and October 24, 25 and 31st – 2:00 pm Ralph and Lina: November 25 to 28th – 7:30 pm and November 28 and 29th – 2:00 pm Air – Tottering Biped: January 14 to 16 and 21st to 23rd – 7:20 pm. January 16, 17 and 23RD – 2:00 PM Late Company: February 24th and 27th – 7:30 PM and February 27th, 28th – 2:00 pm Proof: May 5th to 7th and 12th to 14th – 7:30 pm and May 7th and 14th – 2:00 pm 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee: July 14th to 16th and 21st to 23rd: 7:30 pm and July 17th and 24th 2:00 pm
Special events Special Event – Cirque, October 29th – 7:30 pm Special Event – The Nutcracker, December 8th and 9th – 7:30 pm and at 2:00 pm on December 9th Special Event – Country: Gord Bamford, January 20th – 8:00 pm
Live and Local Music series Melissa Bel and Sharon Musgrave: September 18th – 7:30 pm Stuart Laughtin: February 12th – 7:30 pm Loretta Bailey: October 7th – 7:30 pm Aitch and Chris Chambers: November 20th – 7:30 pm Mod Opera: April 12th – 7:30 pm
Community on Stage
When first envisioned the Performing Arts centre was to make space available to community groups at a price they could afford. It took a while for the idea to get a foothold – under the direction of Brian McCurdy there is now wide ranging, active community involvement.
Burlington Student Theatre Peter Pan: July 6 to 17th; the July 16th show is at 2:30 pm Mary Poppins: July 20 to 31; the July 30th show will be at 2:30 pm
Symphony on the Bay Northern Lights with Ben Smith on piano: October 25th Christmas Pops: David Holler and the Mohawk College Community Chorus: December 6th Romance: February 14th Last Night at the Proms: Sunday May 15th Brott Musical Festival: June 18th – 7:30 pm and June 25th – 7:30 pm Top Hat Marching Orchestra: May 7th – 7:00 pm Burlington Footnotes: June 21st at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm and June 22nd at 2:00 pm Burlington Teen Tour Band: Fall concert: September 25th; 13th annual Christmas Concert, December 4th and Spring Concert May 13th
Matapa World Music series Zal Sissokho, Senegal: October 1st – 7:30 pm Ivan Mazure, Mozambique/Norway: November 18th – 7:30 pm Kasse Mady Diabate, Mali: March 26th – 7:30 pm Marrabenta, Sounds of Mozambique; April 27th – 7:30 pm
Tickets can be purchased on-line at www.burlingtonpac.ca or by telephone at 905-681-6000 and in person at the Box office at 440 Locust Street. Box office hours are noon to 6:00 pm – summer hours noon to 4:00 pm
By Pepper
It was evident there was passion, commitment and dedication from the members. The members were so pleased to be able to support local charities in the Burlington Community. 100 Women Who Care Burlington meets four times a year and each member donates $100 to the winning recipient nominated by a member.
Cine Starz Upper Canada Place
The pool was scheduled to open for the 2015 summer season. As part of preparing for the summer opening, city staff conducted a pool inspection after the winter season. The pool structure has been deemed unsafe for public use by a structural engineer. Attempts were made to see if any short term solutions could be found for this summer season however, repairs measures are too extensive. As a result, Nelson Pool will not open for the summer 2015 season.
The Entertainer’s series
Ron James: November 7th – 8 pm
The Global Beat series
The 440 World Series
The Cushion concert series
Community on Stage