There’s just something honest, compelling, and immediately likeable about Trevor Panczak and his music. With a refreshing authenticity that is increasingly rare to find, the Alberta-based country recording artist writes, interprets, and records songs that speak to one’s heart in a way that is simple, soulful, and with an appeal to a broad array of music fans. Whether singing original compositions, or recording those of other writers, Trevor takes ownership of a song. His vocal performance grabs hold of your attention, evoking memories and emotions born out of a life that has seen tragedies and triumphs. Trevor has developed the remarkable ability to connect not only with his audience but with individual songs, translating his own personal connection with them and engaging listeners.
A musician’s voice mirrors their path through life. Travels, influences, people, and encounters combine to create a unique story. Beginning his public career at age 14, pianist Avan Yu captured attention with an international competition win. In this special program, Journeys, Avan shares his expeditions as a pianist and features milestone pieces from his major performances, and composers who have defined his musical growth. Demonstrating delicate nuances to great technical facilities, he plays with a freedom and expression learned only from his worldly experiences. His destinations are a story of their own. From Hong Kong to Vancouver, to living in Berlin, Paris, and now New York, his explorations have shaped both his life and his artistry. Join Avan Yu in this special and personal program that evokes amusement and contemplation for all audiences into the life of a pianist.
Creating the Best Little Newfoundland Christmas Pageant…Ever! is seemingly a dull task for Mrs. O’Brien, who has been put in charge when the original leader, Mrs. Armstrong, hits a moose with her car. What could be so hard? It’s always the same Mary and Joseph and it’s always the same Christmas carols, but no one was expecting the Herdmans to show up for the auditions!!! The Herdmans are “the worst kids in the world” who don’t know anything about Christmas beyond the hamper they get every year, and have only showed up because they heard there were free refreshments. What has the potential to be the worst pageant ever turns out to be the best one, as everyone learns the true meaning of Christmas.
Don Amero is an engaging storyteller, songwriter, and performer who has been touring and speaking all across Canada for over 10 years. With five albums, three Juno nominations, powerful vocals, and a lovable stage presence, Don has earned the respect of the Canadian music industry and proven himself as a performer who connects with his audience with genuine ease and charm. His show, Amero Little Christmas, celebrates the holiday spirit with a combination of original songs and Don’s own take on more familiar and traditional Christmas favourites. The spirit of the show is one that hopes to set the tone for the holiday season, encouraging those who attend to pause, reflect, and spend quality time with the people they love.
A multiple award winning vocalist, trumpeter, and composer, Johnny Summers creates a lasting experience through this entertaining and varied show. Classic jazz, blues, soul, funk, pop, rock, New Orleans’ music and more are presented in a fun and accessible way. Drawing from Sinatra, pop culture including movie themes, video games, classic American songbook, and pop music through the decades, Summers creates a program within the jazz idiom that appeals to all through his unique arrangements.
The eight piece Johnny Summers Little Big Band is comprised of some of Canada’s top professionals; including piano, bass, drums, trumpet, two saxophones, trombone, and Johnny on vocals/trumpet. Come join us and experience a night of first class entertainment!
Fred Penner is a musical master who has released 13 children’s albums, performed countless energetic live shows, hosted a hit CBC TV series in the 80s and 90s, and more! He has won four Junos and an Order of Canada, and works as a spokesperson for organizations like UNESCO, World Vision, UNICEF, and the National Conference on Down Syndrome.
The guy who crawled magically out of a hollow log in Fred Penner’s Place continues to connect with his now grown-up fans while also becoming a positive influence for legions of new young fans. With the philosophy that his work can make a difference, Fred Penner has, without a doubt, established himself as a fundamental part of the family entertainment scene. Everybody sing along: “The cat came back, the very next day…”
Recommended Age: 4 -10 years
Free pre-show crafts and activities in the lobby starting at 10 a.m.
Eclectic Classical, Tango, Gypsy, and Folk Music
Virtuosic showpieces, romantic tenor arias, pyrotechnical solos, blazing gypsy show pieces, multi-instrument mastery, and a World Accordion Champion – this is Quartetto Gelato. For 25 years, this dazzling ensemble has enchanted audiences and critics worldwide with their exotic blend of musical talent, artistic passion, and humor. Classical in training – eclectic by design – Quartetto Gelato not only thrills its audiences with its skill on multiple instruments, but also offers the bonus of a brilliant operatic tenor. With a performance repertoire that spans the globe including classical masterworks, operatic arias, the sizzling energy of tangos, gypsy and folk songs, the group’s theatrical stage presence and relaxed humor establishes an intimate rapport with audiences worldwide. Regularly heard on CBC and radio stations in over 20 countries, their Concert in Wine Country DVD is seen regularly on PBS, their eight CDs have sold over 150,000 units to date, and they have been featured on the Hollywood soundtrack for Only You.
Thursday, October 19, 2017 – Alberta Showcase Kickoff Party
Photography supplied by Chris “Skip” Sturwold
Friday, October 20, 2017 – Alberta Showcase
Photography supplied by Chris “Skip” Sturwold
Saturday, October 21, 2017 – Alberta Showcase
Photography supplied by Chris “Skip” Sturwold
Sunday, October 22, 2017 – Alberta Showcase
Photography supplied by Chris “Skip” Sturwold
East Coast/Celtic Rock Music
Derina Harvey Band are an Alberta-based five-piece Celtic-rock group who offer an authentic east-coast kitchen-party experience. With a fresh take on traditional tunes and their own original jigs and reels, their infectious rhythmic undertow is layered with rock guitar, dizzying fiddle playing, and topped by Derina’s powerhouse voice. These transplanted east-coasters have now released two CDs, performed over 150 shows in Western Canada in the last 3 years, and toured annually to Newfoundland. Nominated for a 2016 Edmonton Music Award, their album Rove and Go reached number 65 on CKUA’s top played albums that same year. Derina Harvey Band’s high-energy live show is guaranteed to leave you out-of-breath and hollering for more!
