SOUTHEAST SASKATCHEWAN - There is a wealth of talent and entrepreneurial representatives out there.
This time of year often brings out the best of both worlds. This year is no exception. Local groups from various communities are preparing to offer people choice and variety at local events. As well, there are groups dedicated to sharing musical and theatrical gifts to their audiences.
The annual Langbank Craft Sale is set to take place. Forty-six tables have registered so far. The funds raised from the event will go towards the upkeep, maintenance and utilities for the Langbank Recreation Centre.
Gayleen Geer of the Langbank Rec Board welcomes everyone to come out and enjoy the varied assortment of talent and products. Geer also mentioned the lunch will be beef on a bun and homemade pies. There is no admission fee.
Kipling’s Holiday Craft Fair is set for early December. This year there are two buildings offering a plethora of local artisans’ wares and home businesses.
The proceeds from the fair will benefit the band program at the high school. The students enjoy trips in the spring. Every four years, the seniors enjoy a trip to the mountains for skiing. The band is planning to offer the community Christmas and spring concerts.
The Kipling and District Arts Council has a small but varied schedule for this year’s concert series. Mona Lynn Stender and public relations representative Cheryl Ferch mentioned the continued efforts of the board to bring in wonderful talent to showcase and promote for the town and district to enjoy. They encourage patrons to consider gifting tickets this Christmas for the upcoming shows.
They recognize the struggle the group has encountered since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sales are slower for both the presenters and entertainers alike. Stender and Ferch shared that the council is extremely appreciative of the interest and support that the area has shown throughout the years.
The first in this year’s series was a duo that offered outstanding musicianship. Kinjo & Young is comprised of two accomplished musicians. Their combined talents held the audience with beautiful songwriting and sweet harmony. Comments left on the council’s Facebook page applauded their talents and overall performance.
The second offering for audiences to enjoy is Jake Vaadeland & the Sturgeon River Boys. They are set to perform in mid-January. Their music blends of '50s rockabilly and bluegrass tones have earned them several prestigious Saskatchewan music awards. In the spirit of the Grand Ole Opry, the show offers something for everyone to enjoy.
The season will be rounded out with a performance from Jack Garton. Garton’s show is scheduled in April. Audiences will be treated to a varied musical repertoire. Skillful with many instruments, Garton will take spectators on a journey full of emotion and talent.
Garton works as a gravedigger at times. He shares stories from his unusual part-time job set in the range of blues and folk songs. His original songs will have people up and moving throughout the night. He has a lot to say and backs his performance with a rhythm section. His tunes will follow people home and they will be humming along.
Kipling also offers a winter dance club that meets Sunday afternoons. They meet twice a month except for December. Live music is provided by various musicians from around the province. Everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy the music and motion.
The Moose Mountain Players are offering a rousing production of Captain Bree and her Lady Pirates. Come out and enjoy the musical theatre that offers local humour based loosely on the Kenosee area. The productions are slated for mid-November at the Kenosee Rec Hall. Tickets are still available for the Thursday and Friday shows.
