I’ve stated many times how lucky I am to be living in the wonderful community of Perth and this past weekend further exemplified just how true that is. The talent in our faire shire never ceases to impress. On Friday, along with many proud parents and grandparents, I attended Stewart Public School’s performance of “Seussical – The Musical” and spent a delightful couple of hours watching what must have been many, many hours of practice pay off for this large ensemble. It was great to see so many age groups and abilities sharing the stage, working together to present their offering to us. Witnessing several of the younger folk be so into their roles that while singing their whole body was caught up in the rhythm in such an natural way was touching. A few technical problems with wireless mikes did little to interfere. They just kept belting out song after song with the enthusiasm that could move mountains. Congratulations go to Grace Armstrong who directed with the assistance of Catherine Funston. School staff, parents and volunteers obviously put in a lot of extra time and effort to pull this challenging venture off. The orchestra, with Steve Hanna and Pam Newton on keyboards, Terry Kirkpatrick and Jeremy Parnell on percussion, Jim Bailey on stand up bass, Jamey Cameron on bass guitar and Dave Balfour on guitar deserve special recognition as I understand the score was a real challenge, even for these seasoned veterans. Ryan Harvey, as Horton the Elephant deserves special recognition as his singing was stellar. He seemed to find his note, remained on key through his many parts of songs and added a personal touch to his acting. He says he hasn’t taken singing lessons so his natural ability and good ear shone. Stephen Morgenstern as Jo-Jo Boy also seemed to rise above the cast with his expressive acting and song. I wish both these young lads all the best as they hopefully put their artistic gifts to good use. Well done Stewart School!!! Now that attendance at my usual Church of the Arena has ended due to the ice going out I joined a packed sanctuary at St. Paul’s United on Sunday morning and was delighted in catching “By the Sea” , a musical performed by their choirs and others of the church. This was a stirring multi generational performance under the musical guidance of Brad Mills, with producing by Paula Stewart and Patti Greer, Children’s Chorus led by Val Leavitt and choreography by Gillian Scott. Nice to see a PDCI Drama alumni, Greg Linforth being the Drama Director. Pam Holm added some nice touches with her flute and glockenspiel accompaniment. The Hand Bell Choir also was a nice touch. Though based on following the Easter story, a rather serious subject, the uplifting, hopeful message rang through, especially thanks to the children’s voices. There’s just something about those innocent faces, the sincerity they portray and their sweet voices that makes this lug of a scribe melt. A trio made up by Dave Lintaman, Pat Jones as wandering parents and Dayna Stone as their child worked well together. Young Dayna deserves special mention for she stood out with her clarity, projection, musicality and natural zest. Congratulations to a very well done performance to all involved. I am proud to live in a community where so many people take their energy and time and work for long hours learning parts and choreography, creating scenery and props, sound and lighting, doing publicity, all to entertain their fellow friends, neighbours and townsfolk, but most of all, just for the fun of it.Upcoming …. A reminder that Kate Weekes has a CD Release on Thursday April 26th at 7pm at McDonald’s Corners – MERA site. I hope you’ll get out and support this young Lanark County lass as her new disc raises the bar. Kate’s genuine voice has a sweet lustre that pleases, with her songwriting sharing her experiences living in and around Yellowknife. Tickets are at Shadowfax.
Music On McLean hosts this effervescent pianist, squeezebox player, Michael Johnston to their stage on Saturday March 28th . Reserve seats by calling 267-7902.
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