WHAT’S GOING ON: Is the Concert Business Back to Normal?
It’s as if the pandemic never happened even though it’s still going on. That, plus a war.
The area concert scene is heating up all the same, with a spate of recent announcements that suggest things are, could be, maybe, who the hell knows, getting back to normal.
At the Jube Oct. 12-13 is the venerable one-of-a-kind Styx (above) – featuring Canadian icon Lawrence Gowan – with the opening act Nancy Wilson’s Heart. She’ll be doing “Heart songs in a different way” – without her sister Ann. It’s a sensitive issue, and a long story.
Also recently announced is the Sheepdogs, darlings of the Canadian midwest jangly rock scene, coming to play Midway Nov. 27 as part of the Live & Outta Sight tour behind their new album, Find the Truth.
And to complete the trifecta of recent announcements is Our Lady Peace – an underrated Canadian band whose songs still hold up; plus their stock goes up after collaborating with Russian feminist protest group Pussy Riot on Stop Making Stupid People Famous, a song for our times if there ever was one – embarking on an experimental tour called “The Wonderful Future Theatrical Experience. The show will feature special holographic guest appearances! That’s June 13 at the Winspear Centre.
Edmonton Talent
A who’s who of local talent is featured at the annual Winterruption YEG Festival at several downtown venues. Of note is Eamon McGrath on the bill at Starlite Room Thursday, March 31. The award-winning Tzadeka (recent winner of a $15K arts grant) is part of a big hip hop spectac Friday, April 1 at the Starlite Room, headlined by the B.C. duo Snotty Nose Rez Kids (above). And Saturday, April 2 sees a plethora of shows, including a free day of live music at the outdoor bar The Backyard.
Bowie Comes Alive
Alberta Ballet is finally ready to present its David Bowie tribute PHI, March 31-April 1 at the Jubilee Auditorium. This marks the final show for artistic director Jean Grand-Maître, who said in a statement, “Five years ago, the idea of creating a portrait ballet to David Bowie’s immense legacy was sparked. Three years ago, it was conceived and designed. Then the pandemic crashed all of our dreams. But during those two long years, I used the time wisely to perfect and refine the entire production. I’m hoping it will reveal David Bowie’s prophetic genius in a new, refreshing way.”
Deaf Theatre
Perhaps in honour of the Oscar Best Picture winner Coda – dealing with a family where mom and dad are deaf – here’s a plug for the annual Sound Off Festival at the ATB Financial Arts Barns (and online) March 30-April 4. They’re presenting several events, including a murder mystery and an improv segment – and featuring deaf artists from across Canada. Fluency on American Sign Language is not necessary, but you may learn some things.
