Craig Gallery was alive and full of energy on Saturday, April 20, for an inspiring arts event that had something for everyone. Surrounded by beautiful paintings and sculptures, the gallery was the perfect environment for the audience to enjoy some local talent.
The soiree raised money to fund a poetry workshop for kids at GBCS, which is exciting. Owen Sound’s Poet Laureate Emeritus, Richard-Yves Sitoski, will connect with Meaford youth and give them the chance to meet and learn from a fabulous wordsmith. The impact of bringing artists into the classroom is huge and the evening accomplished this.
Deputy Mayor Shirley Keaveney made a few opening remarks, and Councillor Rob Uhrig was on hand to support by drawing some raffle prizes and arranging for a pair of tickets to MIFF as one of the prizes. When asked about the event he said, ”The Craig Gallery Music and Poetry event was another example of how Meaford is fortunate to have such supportive arts and culture volunteers and supporters. Thank you to the organizers, participants, and attendees for providing a fun and successful event.”
The musical entertainment by band Miss Grundy was well received; the audience connected with many of their original tunes written by singer-songwriters Catherine Bacque and Alan Hardiman. One song in particular, that will be released on bandcamp later this year, was a hit with everyone. The Kids Are Gone… a tune about kids leaving home, but then… they come back! Oh no, Boomer! If you missed hearing Miss Grundy, you can always catch a taste at missgrundy.bandcamp.com
Fiddle player extraordinaire Shari Lundy, along with her protege Jen Burak, did some tunes. This was a wee teaser before they do a bit more playing in front of Meaford Hall for the Meaford 150 on June 15.
Poet Richard-Yves Sitoski performed two 10-minute sets.
He did an excerpt from his play Butterfly Tongue which was performed last October at the Grey Roots Museum to a sold out crowd. If you missed it, don’t worry—it’ll be back October 4-5 at the Simcoe Street Theatre down the road in Collingwood. He is most certainly a cultural gem in this region worth supporting.
“With the world in so much turmoil, it was wonderful to gather in a calm, colourful space with fabulous community members to put some positive energy out into the universe. What better way to spend a Saturday Night?” said organizers.
