Young talent starts new tradition at Heritage Music Festival

August 12, 2016 · 0 Comments

By Marni Walsh

Young, local talent kick-started Centre Stage at the Hall, a new tradition taking root as part of the Heritage Music Festival last week.

For some reason, this new event was not included in the Heritage Festival events’ listing, leaving Festival goers unaware that it was scheduled for 3.30 p.m. on Saturday after the parade.

It was a shame the event was left off the schedule and press releases because the performers put on an excellent performance that showcased not only their talents, but the Town of Shelburne’s lovely Grace Tipling Hall as an attractive concert facility.

However, the small audience of approximately 50 made up for in enthusiasm what they lacked in size.

The concert was organized by a Heritage Music Festival sub-committee as an extension of the Performing and Visual Arts Board of Management for the Town of Shelburne, consisting of the Town’s CAO John Telfer, along with Noni Thomas, Dale Lundy, Kelly McDowell, Andrew James, and Sohayla Smith.

Andrew James, as emcee for the performance event, did a great job of keeping the mood light and the show moving.

He transitioned adeptly from set to set with improvised comedy bits to bring on one performer after the other. The audience was treated to a free show that included more than a dozen different acts, including dancers, folk singers, pop singers, musical theatre performers, instrumentalists, and a rock band.

A good deal of effort went into bringing the show to Grace Tipling by the volunteers of the sub-committee.

Dale Lundy, known locally for his excellent work in LP Stage Productions, did a good job once again running the show, along with sound and lighting crew Josh Oatman and Justin Da Silva.

Noni Thomas and Kelly McDowell stage managed the production line-up, which had been organized over many weeks by Shelburne singer-songwriter Sohayla Smith.

Performers included Acacia De Krijger, Natalie Savona, Brianna McGowan, Avalynn, Ronique Saunders, Dustin Bricker, Mikayla Evans, Gabrielle Oatman, Unique De Krijger, Mathew Guevarra, Darcey Baker, Danielle Gamache, Josh Oatman, and the band Scarlett’s Hand.

Hopefully next year at the Heritage Music Festival, this budding event will continue to offer opportunities for local talent, showcase Grace Tipling Hall, and deliver another enjoyable performance that any family can afford – free of charge.

Congratulations to the performers and the Centre Stage at the Hall committee on a job well done.