by Gillian Crowley –
September’s shorter and cooler days bring fall chores and fireside dreaming. Happily it’s also the month cultural events and entertainment gear up on the Saanich Peninsula.
Music at the 148th Saanich Fair
Enjoy music throughout the day at this enduring celebration of rural life. Evening openers and headliners include:
Phoenix, a four-piece rock-and-roll cover band based in Victoria, performs classic hits from the ’50s to the ’80s. In 2014, Phoenix was one of the opening bands for Chilliwack at the Saanich Fair. September 5 at 6 p.m.
Jesse Roper, born and raised in Metchosin, first started playing the guitar at age six. His Red Bird album was nominated for a 2015 West Coast Music Award for Best Blues recording and he was invited to showcase at the 2015 Western Canadian Music Awards Gala. September 5 at 8 and 10 p.m.
Rukus is well known locally for their ’50s and ’60s rock n roll dance music. September 6 at 6 p.m.
Honeymoon Suite is still going strong after 25 years. These multi-platinum Canadian recording artists are still touring, recording and “rocking out harder and better than ever!” September 6 at 8 and 10 p.m.
Saanich Fairgrounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton. More at http://saanichfair.ca/officialsite.
Four Artist Friends Having Fun
Linda Butcher, Lois Kissinger, Shirley Sarens and Karen Wilk met through art and became friends. They paint, create, display, learn and laugh together. Now you can join the fun at their exhibit of original acrylics, watercolours, mixed media and art cards in a wide range of styles. Watch their painting techniques and possibly try your hand at painting too. More info at 250-479-0953. September 12 to 18, 10 a.m. to
4 p.m. Tulista Arts Centre, 9565 Fifth Street, Sidney.
Cowboy Junkies
Founded in 1985, Cowboy Junkies recorded a succession of critically acclaimed albums during the ’80s and ’90s, earning them a cult following throughout North America and Europe. Their style is a fusion of traditional country, blues and folk, delivered in a dreamy soundscape, which has earned them multiple awards and nominations throughout their 30+ years in the industry. Siblings Michael, Margot and Peter Timmins are joined by Alan Anton, co-creator of the group with Michael. September 30 at 7:30 p.m. Mary Winspear Centre.
Coco Love Alcorn in Concert
Coco Love Alcorn returns to Sidney to celebrate the release of her new album Wonderland. She sings joyful soul: a combination of her diverse musical influences including jazz, pop, R&B and folk. Her songwriting about love, life and social awareness has created new fan favourites including Intellectual Boys, Revolution and I Got a Bicycle. Presented by Deep Cove Folk Music Society. Advance Tickets $20 at Tanners Books (Sidney) and Lyle’s Place (Victoria). September 24th. Concert at 8 p.m. (doors open 7:30 p.m.) St. Paul’s United Church, 2410 Malaview Avenue, Sidney. Note: Coco and talented choir director, Anne Schaefer, will be conducting a singing workshop in the afternoon. More information at www.deepcovefolk.ca or email bdewolff@mac.com.
Music at the Farmers’ Markets
Groove along with the music while you buy your fresh veggies.
North Saanich Farmers’ Market, Saturdays, 9:30 am – noon,
St. John’s United Church, 10990 West Saanich Road. Lineup at www.northsaanichfarmmarket.ca.
Peninsula Country Market, Saturdays 9 am to 1 p.m., Saanich Fairgrounds, 1528 Stelly’s Cross Road. Lineup at www.peninsulacountrymarket.ca.
