– by Gillian Crowley –
Valentine’s Day is on the horizon, making February a perfect month to seek out romantic music or take a leisurely stroll along the Sidney seafront walk to admire the unique sculptures dotted along the pathway. With or without a partner, there’s lots to do … and don’t forget the chocolate!
Sidney Sculpture Walk Awards Gala
The people have spoken! The People’s Choice Award will go to one of 12 temporary sculptures displayed along the community’s sea walk from Beacon Park to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal. The result of January’s citizens’ vote will be announced at a Valentine-themed gala reception where the artists will also attend. The Town of Sidney will purchase the winning sculpture with money collected out of its bonus density fund which developers pay into when they seek added density for a project. Find out whether your favourite sculpture will join the other four permanent displays: “The Dog Walker,” “The Pirate,” “The Diver” and “The Fisherman.” This free gala (limited space) will feature a sculpture show, “artist in residence,” awards ceremony, chocolate and no-host bar. February 12th, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa. Reserve your seat: rsvpsidneysculptureawards@gmail.com or 250-656-7400.
Relive the 1950’s With a Buddy Holly Tribute
A talent that was snuffed out too soon, Buddy Holly will live again through Johnny Vallis, a man of many voices. Buddy Holly was one of the most influential creative forces in early Rock n’ Roll and an early inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In his tribute to the Rock icon, Johnny Vallis portrays both the look and sound as he rolls out Buddy’s greatest hits: “That’ll Be The Day,” “Oh Boy,” “Peggy Sue,” “Heartbeat” and more. The concert includes upright bass player “Big Daddy Bo,” Rob Dewingaerde on drums and Hank Engel on guitar, all playing vintage instruments and creating the early Rock and Roll spirit. Thursday February 6th, 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Winspear Centre. Tickets: 250-656-0275 or www.marywinspear.ca.
Roots Music with Ulrich, Henderson and Forbes
Deep Cove Folk Music Society presents UHF, a collaboration of three outstanding, seasoned songwriters: Shari Ulrich, Bill Henderson and Roy Forbes. In 1989 UHF was formed for a proposed one-time-only appearance at the Vancouver Winter Roots Festival. Magic happened, the three clicked and the rest is history. This year the trio of well-loved singer/songwriters celebrate their 25th year of sharing the stage playing folk, rock, country and pop. Shari, Bill and Roy still find the collaboration a refreshing break from their busy solo careers and continue the UHF tradition of solid playing with their unique blend of three distinct solo voices. More information at http://deepcovefolk.ca. Saturday February 8th at 8 p.m. at the Charlie White Theatre, Mary Winspear Centre. 250-656-0275 or www.marywinspear.ca.
Palm Court’s Valentine Concert
Be whisked away on a gossamer cloud of romantic music during this Valentine’s Day concert performed by the popular Palm Court Light Orchestra. The concert features two young singers in love duets from Puccini’s La Boheme, Tosca and Madam Butterfly as well as operettas by Franz Lehar, Sigmund Romberg, Victor Herbert and Johann Strauss. Soprano Shadan Saul Guerrero, and local tenor Sunny Shams will take centre stage. February 14th, 2:30 p.m. at the Charlie White Theatre, Mary Winspear Centre.
Is there something happening in the Peninsula or Gulf Islands Art Scene we should know about? Email gillian@seasidemagazine.ca.
