New Stages Theatre Company opens its 2018-19 season with a performance by comedian Deborah Kimmett of her acclaimed monologue "The Year of the Suddenly" on September 23, 2018 at the Market Hall in downtown Peterborough. Directed by Peterborough's own Linda Kash, the performance also features accompaniment by Toronto musician Nichol Robertson. (Photo: Cassandra Rudolph)
On Sunday, September 23rd, New Stages Theatre Company opens its 2018-19 season by bringing popular comedian Deborah Kimmett back to the Market Hall stage with her show The Year of the Suddenly.
Based on Deborah’s true-life experience, The Year of the Suddenly is directed by Linda Kash and features musician Nichol Robertson.
New Stages Theatre Company presents The Year of the Suddenly
When: Saturday, September 23, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St. E, Peterborough) How much: $30 general admission($15 students/arts workers/unwaged)
Written and performed by Deborah Kimmett and directed by Linda Kash with musical accompaniment by Nichol Robertson. Tickets available in person at the Market Hall Box Office or by phone at 705-749-1146 (12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday) or online anytime at markethall.org.
In The Year of the Suddenly, Deborah explores her relationship with her younger brother Kevin, who she only finally got to know when he was diagnosed with cancer.
She has toured the show, described as part comic monologue and part eulogy, throughout Ontario since its debut at Toronto’s Second City in June 2017.
“The Year of the Suddenly fits the sensibility of New Stages,” says New Stages artistic director Randy Read. “The subject matter at its core is very serious, but it’s handled with a great deal of humour. There’s a wonderful balance of humour and the reality of humanity. I believe that balance is in the best plays. The humour is there to understand the tragedy of it.”
“Also, people respond to Deb,” adds Randy, who last brought Deb to Peterborough for his Hits and Misses Cabaret last December. “I had a lot of feedback from people, who loved her. People will enjoy what she will bring to the stage.”
This is the second time Deborah will perform The Year of the Suddenly in Peterborough. The first time was only days after its debut in Toronto, when sheh performed the show at the former Catalina’s in downtown Peterborough for a one-night-only performance.
“The Year of the Suddenly” is Deborah Kimmett’s funny and moving monologue about rediscovering a relationship with her younger brother Kevin after he was diagnosed with cancer. (Photo: Cassandra Rudolph)
“I brought the show to Catalina’s after its debut because I didn’t want to do it in Napanee and Kingston where we grew up, because I thought in Peterborough nobody I knew would come,” Deborah says. “But half the people in Catalina’s that night drove in from Napanee. But they loved it.
“I’ve had every relative come and see it now, so I have no fears. You always wonder if you’ve said something offensive. I know it was hard the first few productions. In Kingston, it was everybody I knew and they were okay with it. My Mom came — and that was the hardest because I was worried that she’d be too upset to watch it — but she really liked it.”
The title of Deborah Kimmett’s show refers to her teaching a writing class about the use of the word “suddenly” when she found out her brother Kevin had been diagnosed with cancer. (Photo: Cassandra Rudolph)
Raised in a large Catholic family, Deborah was the oldest of six children, while her brother Kevin was the middle child.
“Kevin really wasn’t in the inner circle of the family,” Deborah says. “I was the oldest and the leader and I thought I was amazing, and he, of course, didn’t think that all the time.”
Although they knew each other their entire lives, for the most part Deborah and Kevin were virtual strangers — until he got ill, where an unlikely relationship between the two siblings grew.
“When my brother was ill I found out how interesting and talented he was,” she admits. “And, for the first time in my life, he became interested in me as well.”
Through their visits together, Deborah began to draft the first version of The Year of the Suddenly.
“I wrote down the story of my brother through the course of the time that he was sick,” she explains. “We weren’t as close until he was sick, and at that time we had a lot of conversations and I learned a lot about him. He was very smart and extremely funny.”
While Kevin’s illness is an important part of the narrative of the show, Deborah stresses that it is only a plot point and not the theme of The Year of the Suddenly.
“It’s not a show about cancer,” Deb says. “It’s about a brother and a sister. It’s a family relationship. It’s all about family and how we treat each other.
“I have this line that says ‘You don’t update your files on family for forty years.’ You can be the nicest person in the world, but your family doesn’t realize that you’ve changed since you were six. This whole story is nothing about cancer, but updating the files on a brother and sister relationship.
“A brother and sister treat each other different than, say, a sister treats a sister. There were always little factions in the family and groups you could hang out with. My two sisters and I were close, and my two brothers were close, and Kevin was in the middle and I just didn’t know him well growing up.
“We went to family gatherings, but the boys would be in the living room yelling about politics, and the women would be in the kitchen yelling about women’s rights, and we never really knew each other. The boys loved us, but they never really did anything with us. We never really talked to each other. So we went to these family events, and we’d get stuck into these roles.”
Deborah Kimmett’s “The Year of the Suddenly” is directed by Peterborough’s Linda Kash. (Publicity photo)
Although Kevin’s illness was a difficult time for Deborah and her family, she has been able to find the comedy amongst the tragedy for her show.
“When somebody is really ill, a lot of comedy comes out of human error,” she explains. “I always wanted to be a great sister, and I wanted to help out, but I’d blow it a lot. Even if you start out wanting to be a saint, at the end of it you realize that you weren’t as friendly as you thought you were. The humour comes out of our mistakes as people. I never mock his illness.”
“I also think comedy is all about falling down as a person,” she adds. “You go in with high ideas of yourself, and failing at those high ideas is where the humour comes from. So I walked in thinking I could be a nurse or a kind person, and all of that, and then my foibles as a human being failed me.”
Deborah has been performing The Year of the Suddenly for over a year, and since her Catalina’s performance the show has managed to change and evolve. One of the most obvious changes is the addition of musician Nichol Robertson to the show.
Toronto guitarist, banjo player, and singer-songwriter Nichol Robertson will provide musical accompaniment during Deborah Kimmett’s performance. (Publicity photo)
“My brother loved country and western music, and Nichol is this amazing guitar player,” she says. “He really can play any type of music. He does this thing where he dresses like a country gentleman and he’s got a great sense of humour. We’ve really rehearsed him into the show and he’s brought a lot into the piece. Music is used to tell the story. He really is an integral part of the show.”
Another change in the show is the emotional context for Deborah’s performance, now that some time has passed since her brother’s death from his illness.
“When I first wrote it, it was very raw and emotional because I had just gone through my brother having died,” she explains. “But lately it feels like we’ve included the audience more. The audience sings, and I dance with them, and eventually it became like a communal celebration of life. It’s emotional for the audience, but I’m not as emotional doing it.”
Still, with each performance, Deborah continues to keep her commitment to her brother’s memory alive when she goes on stage.
“I want to make sure that there was nothing I say in the show that would upset Kevin if he were alive,” she says. “I treated the material very carefully. I always say a little commitment to him before I go on stage, that he’ll be good with what I’ve written, and to also honour him.”
Deborah Kimmett will perform “The Year of the Suddenly” at the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough on Sunday, September 23, 2018. (Poster: New Stages)
The Year of the Suddenly is a perfect way to open New Stages’ upcoming season of thought-provoking and often hard-hitting shows. Randy Read always brings the best talent to Peterborough for everything he produces, and Deborah Kimmett is no exception. She is a funny woman with a magnetic stage presence that goes right to the soul of the audience, and it is a true gift to have her perform at the Market Hall.
The Year of the Suddenly will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 23rd at the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. Genearl admission tickets are $30 ($15 for students, art workers, and the underwaged) and are available in person at the Market Hall Box Office or by phone at 705-749-1146 (12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday) or online anytime at markethall.org.
The family-run Dooher's Bakery in Campbellford has been voted the "Sweetest Bakery in Canada" in a nationwide contest sponsored by Dawn Food Products. Pictured is owner Cory Dooher (centre) with her proud parents Christine and Peter. (Photo: Dooher's Bakery / Facebook)
This week’s round-up of business news features Dooher’s Bakery in Campbellford winning the “Sweetest Bakery in Canada” contest, the return of the Cubs’ Lair competition for young entrepreneurs, and the arrival of Uber Eats food delivery service in Peterborough.
New business events added this week include the Peterborough Chamber’s lunch-time seminar on the blockchain on September 19th, Community Futures Peterborough #FinancialFriday seminar on mortgage financing on September 21st, workshops on new regulations under Safe Food for Canadians Act in Peterborough on September 25th, and the Peterborough Chamber’s Leaders Lunch Series on strategic planning in Peterborough on September 27th.
We publish businessNOW every week. If you’d like us to promote your business news or event in businessNOW, please email business@kawarthanow.com.
Dooher’s Bakery in Campbellford voted the “Sweetest Bakery in Canada”
Dooher’s Bakery owner Cory Dooher (second from right) celebrating the title of “Sweetest Bakery in Canada” with her children Spencer, Jeremy, and Hannah, all of whom work in the family-run bakery. (Photo: Dooher’s Bakery / Facebook)
Dooher’s Bakery (61 Bridge St. E., Campbellford) has been named as the “Sweetest Bakery in Canada” in a contest sponsored by Michigan-based Dawn Food Products, Inc. for the first time.
The results of the national contest, when began in April with both online and mail-in voting, were announced last Friday (September 14).
Judging from the reaction on Dooher’s Bakery Facebok page (over 4,600 “likes”, 785 comments, and more than 3,000 shares), a lot of people agree with the result.
The family-run bakery was founded in 1949 by Muriel and Harry Dooher, and is currently operated by the founders’ grandaughter Cory Dooher. Using special family recipes, the bakery produces sweet rolls, pastries, squares, pies, short breads, muffins, donuts, cookies, and more.
In addition to bragging rights, Dooher’s Bakery also receives a prize package valued at $10,000, which includes national and local recognition (including a full-page ad in Bakers Journal), an award plaque, a local celebration party, national and local public relations support, and more.
Pontiac Home Bakery in Shawville, Quebec, and The Rolling Pin Bakery in Hope, British Columbia, were the Eastern Canada and Western Canada national winners.
For more information on Dooher’s Bakery, visit www.doohers.com.
Cubs’ Lair entrepreneurship competition returns to Peterborough for its fourth year
Young entrepreneurs in Peterborough and the Kawarthas will pitch their business to a panel of judges at the Gordon Best Theatre in downtown Peterborough on November 22, 2018 during the fourth annual Cubs’ Lair entrepreneurship competition, with a prize package valued up to $10,000. (Photo courtesy of the Innovation Cluster)
Cubs’ Lair, the largest competition for young entrepreneurs in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, is returning for its fourth year.
An initiative of FastStart Peterborough, the Innovation Cluster, and the Trent Youth Entrepreneurship Society, Cubs’ Lair gives entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 29 the chance to win up to $10,000 in prizes.
After applying online, participants will attend a series of three mandatory workshops at the Innovation Cluster that will help them build skills in creating a business model canvas, financing, marketing, and preparing their pitch to a panel of judges.
The final pitch event takes place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, November 22nd at the Gordon Best Theatre in downtown Peterborough. A panel of established business professionals will test competitors’ knowledge of how they will grow the business and judge the best pitch.
VIDEO: Cubs’ Lair 2018
Richard Cochrane of Status Exempt won the 2017 competition for his platform that allows First Nations to obtain tax exemption online. Judges chose Cochrane based on having a comprehensive business plan and creating a first-of-its-kind solution.
This year’s prize package of up to $10,000 includes incubator space at the Innovation Cluster, a social media package from PTBOCanada, two-year cash flow budgeting support by Gauvreau & Associates, with more prizes to be announced.
For more information, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit www.innovationcluster.ca/programs/cubslair/. The deadline to apply is Saturday, October 27th.
Uber Eats food delivery service is now available in Peterborough
Uber Eats food delivery service is now available in Peterborough at 15 fast food chains and restaurants with more to come. (Photo: Uber Eats)
Food delivery service Uber Eats is now available in Peterborough.
Created by ridesharing service Uber in 2014 out of San Francisco, the service launched in Toronto in 2015 and is expanding to 100 cities across Canada.
Users can order food from participating restaurants — mostly fast food chains that don’t have their own delivery service — on their websites or using the Uber Eats smartphone app. Meals are delivered by couriers using cars, bikes, or on foot.
Participating Peterborough restaurants so far include McDonald’s, A&W, Popeye’s Louisana Kitchen, Harvey’s, Swiss Chalet, Jeff Purvey’s Fish & Chips, Pita Pit, Caribbean Sizzle, Boston Pizza, and Firehouse Subs with more to come.
Another Canadian food delivery service, SkipTheDishes, has already been operating in Peterborough since December 2017, with 45 restaurants currently prticipating.
As for the ridesharing service Uber, the company has no plans to make the service available in Peterborough.
Venture13 in Cobourg hosts seminar on University of Toronto internship program for startups on September 18
The Impact Centre in partnership with Northumberland CFDC and Venture13 is presenting a lunch and learn seminar on course-based internship program for early-stage startups offered by the Impact Centre at the University of Toronto.
“Exploring New Ventures Closer to Home: Helping your Startup grow with top talent from UofT” takes place from noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, September 18th in the seminar room at Venture13 (739 D’Arcy St., Cobourg).
Students in the Exploring New Ventures Closer to Home (ENV-C2H) program will work with your company (unpaid) for either 100 or 200 hours, learn about entrepreneurship, and earn an academic credit.
The seminar is free and lunch will be provided. Register at Eventbrite.
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development hosts BAC at the Bonfire at Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene on September 18
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development’s Business Advisory Centre hosts its annual BAC at the Bonfire event from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 18th at Elmhirst’s Rerort (1045 Settlers Line, Keene).
BAC at the Bonfire brings together entrepreneurs around a cozy campfire to share their stories and mingle with like-minded professionals.
This year’s theme is how to scale your business for growth and remain competitive. Gain valuable insight guest speakers Marissa McTasney of Moxie Trades and Craig Mortlock from Mortlock Construction.
Peterborough DBIA’s monthly Breakfast Network with Paul J. Bedford on September 19
Renowned city planner Paul J. Bedford will be the guest speaker at the Peterborough DBIA’s September Breakfast Network.
The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA)’s next monthly Breakfast Network takes place at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 19th at Empress Gardens (131 Charlotte St., Peterborough).
Renowned planner Paul J. Bedford will be the guest speaker. A member and fellow of the Canadian Institute of Planners, Bedford has 45 years of experience in urban planning, including as Toronto’s chief city planner for eight years.
Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. with the guest speaker at 8 a.m.
The meeting is open to everyone, and tickets are $5 at the door.
Peterborough Chamber hosts lunch-time seminar on the blockchain on September 19
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce’s next Lunch Box Learning seminar takes place from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, September 19th in the Chamber boardroom at 175 George Street North in Peterborough.
The topic will be “What is Blockchain and why should I care?” presented by Anthony Evelyn from RBC Wealth Management, followed by a question-and-answer session. Blockchain — a “digital ledger” stored in a distributed network — is the technology the underpins digital currency like Bitcoin but is being used for more than just currency and transactions.
Lunch Box Learning is a noon-hour seminar series that’s open to Chamber members and members of the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough (WBN).
The seminar is free to attend, but please bring your own lunch.
Note: this seminar replaces the one on the topic “Business Relationships in the Age of Machine Intelligence and Automation” originally scheduled for this date.
Port Hope Chamber hosts lunchtime seminar on marijuana in the workplace on September 19
The Port Hope & District Chamber of Commerce is hosting “Marijuana in the Workplace: Is Your Workplace Ready?” from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, September 19th at the Port Hope Council Chambers (56 Queen St., Port Hope).
The seminar will provide information on the rights and responsibilities of employers regarding the upcoming legalization of marijuana. Jason Schmidt of Schmidt Law Legal Services will be leading the discussion, along with Peter Treacy, Field Consultant from Peninsula Canada – Human Resources & Employer Advice.
Bring your own lunch (beverages will be provided). The event is free, but please RSVP by emailing admin@porthopechamber.com or calling 905-885-5519.
Kawartha Chamber presents Business After Hours in Bridgenorth on September 19
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism’s next Business After Hours event takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, September 19th.
During the “Bridgenorth Hop”, the Chamber will visit members in Bridgenorth, including Bridgenorth Deli, Style Boutique, and TCB Office Furniture & Supplies.
More details will be announced as the date nears.
Port Hope Chamber hosts community economic development workshop on September 20
The Port Hope & District Chamber of Commerce is hosting “Community Economic Development 101” from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, September 20th at the Port Hope Lions Recreation Centre (29 Thomas St., Port Hope).
The interactive workshop, intended for municipal candidates, staff, community volunteers, and business professionals, will teach the basics of economic development and provide practical tools to help your municipality attract jobs, investment, and tackle economic development barriers.
The workshop is free, but advance registration is required by emailing admin@porthopechamber.com or calling 905-885-5519.
Lindsay Chamber Fall Golf Classic Tournament on September 20
The Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Fall Golf Classic Tournament from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 20th at the Lindsay Golf & Country Club (282 Lindsay St. S., Lindsay).
The event fee of $141.25 includes a BBQ lunch, 18 holes of golf (cart included), and dinner. There will be prizes for women’s and men’s closest and longest drive, most honest and winning teams, and putting and chipping contests.
Innovation Cluster hosts workshop on alternative financing options in Peterborough on September 20
The Innovation Cluster Peterborough & the Kawarthas is hosting “Hands-ON: Alternative Financing Options with SME Bancorp Inc.” from 12 to 1 p.m. on Thursday, September 20th at VentureNorth (270 George St. N., Peterborough).
The workshop, presented by Peter Browning of SME Bancorp, will cover the topics of financing accounts receivable or factoring, using credit insurance to eliminate your credit risk and reduce your cost of borrowing, financing purchase orders, how to fund the purchase of assets such as inventory and the services you need to run your business, and financing equipment.
Community Futures Peterborough hosts a seminar on mortgage financing on September 21
The next in the #FinancialFriday seminar presented by Community Futures Peterborough takes place from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, September 21st in the Judy Heffernan Memorial Board Room at Community Futures Peterborough (351 Charlotte St., Peterborough).
Grace Reynolds of Northwood Mortgage Ltd. will present on the topic “Mortgage Financing – Getting Your House In Order!”. The session will cover what banks look for when qualifying you for a mortgage, how much income you need to show on tax returns, and how to maximize your tax minimization.
The #FinancialFriday series is designed to support small businesses and entrepreneurs with information on finance and business acumen.
Workshops on new regulations under Safe Food for Canadians Act in Peterborough on September 25
Diatom Consulting is offering two workshops to help local businesses prepare for new regulations under the federal Safe Food for Canadians Act that come into effect in January 2018.
The new regulations will result in potential changes for local food manufacturers to record keeping, facility licenses, and oversight from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
The two workshops, entitled “Safe Food for Canadian Regulations – What You Need to Know” and “Safe Food for Canadian Regulations – Building a Compliant PCP Process”, take place from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, September 25th at VentureNorth (270 George St. N., Peterborough). Each workshop costs $199 or $269 for both.
New Venture Session on September 26, 2018 is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs or startups looking for support in the business community. (Photo: Peterborough & The Kawarthas Economic Development)
Peterborough & The Kawarthas Economic Development is hosting a workshop for entrepreneurs from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26th at St. Matthew – St. Aidans Church (1946 Lakehurst Rd., Buckhorn).
The “New Venture Session” is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs or startups looking for support in the business community. The session will provide an overview of the foundations of starting and running a business, resources and programs that are available for entrepreneurs in Peterborough & the Kawarthas, the business model canvas exercise, how to access support from the Business Advisory Centre, and getting started on the “Startup Checklist”.
Leaders Lunch Series on Strategic Planning in Peterborough on September 27
The third event of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce’s Leaders Lunch Series for 2018 takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, September 27th at Personal Touch Banquet Hall (1135 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough).
Ali Lajevardi, Director of BDC Advisory Services, will deliver a keynote address on “The Benefits of Strategic Planning” followed by a question-and-answer session featuring panelists Rhonda Barnet, Jonathan Bennett, and Matt Tanguay.
The cost is $20 and includes networking and lunch. For more information and to register, visit peterboroughchamber.ca.
Next Kawartha Chamber B.O.S.S. session takes place on October 2
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism’s next B.O.S.S. (Business Owners Sharing Solutions) session is scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, October 2nd at Camp Kawartha (1010 Birchview Rd., Douro-Dummer).
The session will explore team building programs, practices, and activities, and discuss the importance of establishing trust, setting goals, and honouring the goals of others. Refreshments will be provided.
The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce’s Love Local Business Expo will take place this year from noon to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 3rd.
The region’s largest business showcase, in previous years the Expo took place at the Morrow Building during September. While spacious, the location was also somewhat uncomfortable during the heat of late summer and required a lot of carpets to cover up the concrete floor.
This year’s Expo is taking place at the Envinrude Centre, which features air conditioning and hardwood floors.
Cultivate hosted its long table launch dinner at Headwaters Community Farm and Education Centre on Friday, September 7, 2018. The dinner, which featured eight local chefs making eight courses featuring local ingredients, launched the annual farm-to-festival celebration of local food and drink, which culminates with the festival weekend from September 21st to 23rd in downtown Port Hope. (Photo: April Potter / kawarthaNOW.com)
“A family dining experience,” coined Cultivate festival organizer Jeffrey Alan Bray while opening the official long table launch dinner for Cultivate 2018.
The unique multi-course outdoor dining event was held last Friday (September 7th) at beautiful Headwaters Community Farm, nestled in the Northumberland Hills.
The annual long-table launch party is an intimate dining experience meant to kick off the festival with a preview of dishes and beverages crafted from the locally sourced ingredients Cultivate is known for.
Place settings for 100 people to enjoy local food and drink during the Cultivate long table launch dinner at Headwaters Community Farm and Education Centre. (Photo: April Potter / kawarthaNOW.com)
Diners are seated at a long table outdoors, and the experience is not unlike a large family reunion or picnic. Diners are likely to be seated next to (or across from) strangers and are encouraged to pass dishes, converse, share, and enjoy the experience of dining with new people.
Tickets to the opening event are always available in advance. The experience is a great opportunity to learn more about farm-to-table options in Northumberland — while getting a sneak peek at what the festival has to offer.
For the price of a ticket to this limited attendance event, the value of the experience greatly exceeds the cost of $100 per person. If you missed the opportunity to attend, be sure follow Cultivate online and watch for 2019’s long table launch party next year.
The Festival Begins
The Cultivate festival weekend takes place at Memorial Park in downtown Port Hope from from September 21 to 23, 2018. (Photo: Cultivate)
Hailed as a “farm-to-festival celebration”, Cultivate celebrates local food, drink, art and culture.
During the festival. you can expect to find a variety of local food producers, chefs and culinary artists, vintners, brew masters, musicians, artists and more. Collaboration between different groups is integral to the festival’s success.
“Obviously this takes a lot of work and it doesn’t happen without a lot of helping hands,” Bray said.
Cultivate festival organizer Jeffrey Alan Bray at the long table launch dinner at Headwaters Community Farm and Education Centre. (Photo: April Potter / kawarthaNOW.com)
The long table launch marks the beginning of many festival events that happen during the month of September leading up to the “big” weekend (September 21st to 23rd in downtown Port Hope).
The festival is a way to encourage foodies, music enthusiasts, and people of all interests to dine together and discover culinary delights sourced locally in Northumberland.
For this reason, the festival is a cornucopia of sensory delights and the inaugural long table dinner is the earliest opportunity to begin sampling the food, beverages, and music Cultivate is known for.
The Long Table Courses and Chefs
The 2018 kick-off event was hosted by Headwaters Community Farm.
Chef Matthew Ness of Centennial College opened the dinner with a first course of farmstead spreads and breads. The course included cornbread from Stapleton and a Chicken Liver Mousse with ingredients sourced from local chicken farmers.
Chef Matthew Ness of Centennial College opened the dinner with a first course selection of fresh-baked breads, flavoured butters, dips, and crudités. (Photo: April Potter / kawarthaNOW.com)
“I just want everybody to pass everything around, to break bread,” Chef Ness explained, breaking the ice for diners to begin sharing and conversing during the meal.
Accompanied by a sample of William Street Beer, the second course of dehydrated tomato, kale, and goat cheese stuffed mushrooms included locally foraged ingredients from South Pond Farms and was created by Chef Isaac Meadows of The Mill Restaurant and Pub in Cobourg.
“Foragers Farms provided local kale and dehydrated heirloom tomatoes for the dish and ground cherries were foraged earlier in the day by South Pond Farms,” explained Chef Meadows.
The third course included cedar-wrapped, oven-poached Ontario trout compliments of Chef Signe Langford, food editor of Harrowsmith Magazine.
“Farmed, sustainable, clean — eat Ontario fish,” Chef Langford said of her phenomenal dish.
The course was accompanied by an apple cider crafted by Empire Cider Co. in Codrington, Ontario.
Following the fish, Team Headwaters and Foragers Farms served a locally sourced salad with ingredients that included Swiss chard, kale, and roasted root vegetables. The salad was dressed with a sumac and honey dressing.
Tony and Linda Armstrong, owners of Headwaters Farm, sourced the ingredients for this course from their own farm.
“It’s kind of bigger than salad to us,” Bray explains. “We met Tony and Linda and they had an idea for what this farm would become and it’s really evolved a lot in three years — but the best part about it is that they want to share this with everybody.
“Headwaters was a big part of the 2017 festival. Part of what’s great about the food community we have here is that everyone is in it together and it’s nice that people want to share what they have.”
The salad was accompanied by a refreshing cold-infused sumac beverage with honey and mint.
“Two of the big flavours we deal with a lot in late summer are sumac and honey,” explained Tony Armstrong.
Chef Riley Wanke of South Pond Farms (right), accompanied by Tyler from Rare Grill House in Peterborough, created a unique Squash “Porchetta”, a vegetarian take on an Italian meat dish, for the seventh course at the (Photo: April Potter / kawarthaNOW.com)
Team Cultivate took the fifth course, serving a delicious mushroom and barley risotto.
New to Cultivate this year, Rolling Grape Vineyard in Bailieboro provided a red marquette to sample. Winemaker Jonathan Drew has been open for three months and the ingredients in his wine are 100 per cent grown in Northumberland.
For the sixth course, Chef Matt DeMille of EAT with Matt DeMille served fire-roasted spring chicken with Piri Piri sauce. Local chicken farmers Kendal Hills Game Farm supplied the meat for this course.
The seventh course was a vegetarian take on an Italian meat dish. Chef Riley Wanke of South Pond Farms, accompanied by Tyler from Rare Grill House in Peterborough, created a unique Squash “Porchetta”.
“The squash is from Luna River Farms and the Wild Rice is special because it comes from Curve Lake — you can’t get any more local than that,” explained Chef Wanke.
The evening wrapped with a dessert course featuring fire-roasted s’mores. Chef Robb Hogg of Nosh and Nourish added a twist to this classic campfire treat with chocolate bark, fruit compote, and maple marshmallows.
The 2018 Festival Music Lineup
Fred Penner, who has performed previously at the family-friendly Cultivate festival, is the host for the Sunday live music line-up, which includes headliners The Good Lovelies. (Photo: Cultivate)
Diners were also treated to a live performance from Peterborough’s fuzz-folk duo Mayhemingways, who recently released their latest record Skip Land.
Music is an integral part of the festival weekend. Here’s an overview of what to expect at this year’s festival:
On the first day of the festival (Friday, September 21st), the musical entertainment will include headliner Lindi Ortega, Jade Eagleson, Melissa Payne, and renowned harmonica player Carlos Del Junco and the Blues Mongrels.
On Saturday, September 22nd, the entertainment will include headliner Donovan Woods and the Opposition, Union Duke, Kellylee Evans, Kate Boothman, Cale Crowe, Ganaraska Sheiks, Billard Blossom, Northern Hearts, Pop-Up Choir, Hill and Landing.
Finishing up the weekend, Sunday performances — hosted by children’s entertainer Fred Penner — will include headliners The Good Lovelies, Kobo Town, Oh Susanna, and the Hometown Beauts.
Attend the festival for the food and drink, and stay for the entertainment!
Butter Tart Taste-Off
The maple pecan butter tart from Kawartha Shortbread in Fenelon Falls was the “Best of the Best” champioon in the 2017 Butter Tart Taste-Off.
Hosted for the past two years at the Peterborough Farmers’ Market, this year the Kawarthas Northumberland “Butter Tart Taste-Off” is taking place at Cultivate on Sunday, September 23rd.
Declared the “sweetest event of the year”, the free event takes place outside the festival along the adjacent streets and river banks.
More than 20 world-class butter tart bakers from Kawarthas Northumberland will showcase the butter tarts they’re known for.
The taste off includes awards for the best classic butter tart, the best gluten-free tart, the best “100 mile” tart (made with mostly local ingredients), and a fun category “Arts ‘n’ Tarts” where artistry and creativity are judged.
Cultivate Festival Weekend Extras
Over three days, the Cultivate festival celebrates local food, drink, art, and culture through promotion, education, and collaboration. The festival features: locally grown and crafted food choices; craft beer, wine, cider and spirits; live, interactive art installations; educational workshops; an open-ended and creative children’s play area; and 24 hours of live music. (Photo: Cultivate)
It’s important to note that Cultivate is a family-friendly event. One festival perk is that kids aged 12 and under can attend free. So don’t be afraid to bring your entire family and enjoy the festival together.
Cultivate also boasts live art installations, culinary workshops, and a 60 vendor marketplace to keep you busy while you’re attending the festival.
The 2018 Cultivate Festival will be held in Port Hope’s Memorial Park (on Queen St. between Walton and Augusta) from September 21st to 23rd.
A weekend pass is $69, with day passes available on Friday ($29), Saturday ($39), and Sunday ($29). VIP passes are also available, ranging from $99 to $139.
A free “swag bag” is available for weekend pass holders.
For more information about Cultivate — including pre-festival weekend pop-ups — and to purchase tickets for the big weekend, visit the festival website at cultivatefestival.ca.
Toronto's critically acclaimed Tia Brazda brings her distinctive retro jazz-pop sound to The Black Horse in downtown Peterborough on Thursday, September 20th. (Publicity photo)
Every Thursday, we publish live music and performance events at pubs and clubs in Peterborough and The Kawarthas based on information that venues provide to us directly or post on their website or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, September 13 to Wednesday, September 19.
If you’re a pub or club owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, please email our Nightlife Editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com.
Thursday, September 20 9pm - Frosh Jam 18 featuring Hydee, Itek, Lukav, Disco Godfathers, Kurrent, Tropical Dust, $lim $ahdlyn, Yody, Chandler F ($30 in advance at http://clubaria.ca/event.cfm?cart&showTimingID=198380)
Arlington Pub
32990 Highway 62, Maynooth
(613) 338-2080
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 22 9pm - Zachary Lucky
Arthur's Pub
930 Burnham St., Cobourg
(905) 372-2105
Thursday, September 13
8pm - Karaoke night
Friday, September 14
8-11pm - Shawn Nelson
Saturday, September 15
8-11pm - Shawn Nelson
Sunday, September 16
4:30-8pm - Celtic Afternoon with Tyson Galloway
Monday, September 17
7-9pm - Rob Phillips
Tuesday, September 18
7:30pm - Beatles Tribute w/ Don Owen & Bruce Longman
Wednesday, September 19
8pm - Open mic
Coming Soon
Friday, September 21 8-11pm - Madman's Window
Saturday, September 22 8-11pm - The Busker Brothers
Sunday, September 23 4:30-8pm - Celtic Afternoon with Tom Leighton and Rick Bauer
Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub
4 Bridge St., Bancroft
(613) 332-3450
Coming Soon
Friday, September 28 8:30pm - Washboard Hank & The Wringers
Beard Free Brewing
649 Unit 4 The Parkway, Peterborough
(705) 775-2337
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 22 2-5pm - A Devil's Din
Sunday, September 23 2-5pm - Acoustic Jam
Black Horse Pub
452 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 742-0633
Thursday, September 13
7:30-11:30pm - Jazz and Blues w/ Marsala Lukianchuk and the Rob Phillips Trio
Friday, September 14
5pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Blue Hazel
Saturday, September 15
5pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Fabulous Tonemasters
Sunday, September 16
3pm - Tom Eastland Triage
Monday, September 17
7-11pm - Crash and Burn w/ Rick & Gailie
Tuesday, September 18
7pm - Open mic w/ Randy Hill
Wednesday, September 19
7pm - Cheryl Casselman
Coming Soon
Thursday, September 20 7:30pm - Tia Brazda
VIDEO: "Daydream" - Tia Brazda
VIDEO: "Shine" - Tia Brazda
Friday, September 21 5pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Lindsay Barr
Saturday, September 22 5pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - TBA
Sunday, September 23 3pm - Tonya Bosch
Boathouse Cafe at Golden Beach Resort
7100 County Rd.18, Roseneath
(905) 342-5366
Saturday, September 15
6-9pm - Derrick Zuber
Coming Soon
Saturday, November 10 6-9pm - Morgan Rider
Boiling Over's Coffee Vault
148 Kent St. W., Lindsay
(705) 878-8884
Coming Soon
Friday, September 21 6-9pm - Open Mic night
The Cat & The Fiddle Cobourg
38 Covert St., Cobourg
(905) 377-9029
Friday, September 14
7pm - Tyler Cochrane Band
Champs Sports Bar
203 Simcoe St., Peterborough
(705) 742-3431
Thursdays
7pm - Open mic
Chemong Lodge
764 Hunter St., Bridgenorth
(705) 292-8435
Thursdays
5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)
Wednesdays
5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)
The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse
26 Bridge St. W., Campbellford
(705) 653-0001
Saturday, September 15
12-3pm - Jazz Matinee ft San Murata on violin and Mark Sepic on guitar.
Wednesday, September 19
8pm - Whiskey Wednesday w/ Ken Tizzard
Coach & Horses Pub
16 York St. S., Lindsay
(705) 328-0006
Thursdays
10pm - Open Mic w/ Gerald Vanhalteren
Fridays
9:30pm - Karaoke Night w/ DJ. Ross
Wednesdays
7-11pm - Live music
Dobro Restaurant & Bar
287-289 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 775-9645
1:30-5pm - PMBA Deluxe Blues Jam hosted by Groove Authority (by donation, proceeds to Peterborough Musicians Benevolent Association)
Coming Soon
Wednesday, October 3 6-10pm - FriendsGiving w/ music by Cary Shields ($35 dinner and complimentary beverage)
Dreams of Beans
138 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 742-2406
Thursday, September 13
8pm - Open Mic hosted by Jacques Graveline
Wednesday, September 19
8pm - Jazz Night with Marsala Lukianchuk & The Imports
Frank's Pasta and Grill
426 King St. E., Cobourg
(905) 372-2727
Friday, September 14
9pm-12am - Karaoke; 12am - DJ
Saturday, September 15
8pm - Mainstreet; 11:30pm - DJ
Wednesday, September 19
8-11pm - Open Mic
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 22 8pm - Steve Bebee & The Burnt River Band; 11:30pm - DJ
Ganaraska Hotel
30 Ontario St., Port Hope
(905) 885-9254
Friday, September 14
8pm - Comedy Burlesque w/ Honey de Mele, Belle Epoque, Knox Harter, Jacob Blashin, Che Durena, Olivia Stadler, Miles Verweel ($20, advance tickets at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/comedy-burlesque-at-th
Saturday, September 15
2pm & 10pm - Blue Print
Wednesday, September 19
8-11pm - Open Mic w/ Clayton Yates & Rob Foreman
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 22 2pm & 10pm - Marty and the Mojos
The Garnet
231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-0107
Thursday, September 13
5pm - Pints N Politics; 9pm - Petunia, The Minimalist Jug Band ($10)
Friday, September 14
5pm - Forselli Friday; 9pm - Outer Rooms, Kaleidoscope Horse, Basement Dweller, People You Meet Outside of Bars ($10 or PWYC)
Saturday, September 15
8:30pm - Borderless Bound Records presents Sleepy Slap, Television Rd, Peachykine
Sunday, September 16
3-8pm - Borderless Bound Records & RC4G Peterborough present Pride Jam
Monday, September 17
Travis Sivart
Wednesday, September 19
Quinn Bonnell
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 22 9pm - Peterborough Pride: Act On It ft David Bateman solo performance mysterious entity cabaret performances hosted by Em Glasspool, comedian Dawn Whitwell, drag sensations Peter Bro and Victoria Haliburton, and DJ ElephantTree ($10 or PWYC)
Sunday, September 23 8-11pm - Tragedy Ann, Peachykine ($10)
Golden Wheel Restaurant
6725 Highway 7, Peterborough
(705) 749-6838
Thursday, September 13
7-9pm - Pop Country Line Dancing Lessons w/ Tina O'Rourke (beginner plus to intermediate, $7)
Wednesday, September 19
7-9pm - Line Dancing Lessons w/ Marlene Maskell ($7 per person, all levels welcome)
Saturday, September 22 8:30pm - Peterborough Pride Party ft screening of #PtboLoves followed by music and dance party ($10 in advance, $15 at door or PWYC)
17 Fire Route 82 Catalina Bay, Buckhorn
(705) 868-2545
Friday, September 14
7-10pm - Chris Culgin
Saturday, September 15
7-10pm - Lotus Wight
Coming Soon
Friday, September 21 7-10pm - Bobby Watson
Saturday, September 22 7-10pm - Kayla Howran
Friday, September 28 7-10pm - Rob Foreman
Saturday, September 29 8-10pm - Midnight Vesta ($25)
McGillicafey's Pub & Eatery
13 Bridge St.. N., Hastings
(705) 696-3600
Thursday, September 13
7-11pm - Karaoke w/ Jefrey Danger
Friday, September 14
8pm - Live music (TBA)
McThirsty's Pint
166 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 743-2220
Thursdays
9pm - Live music with JJ Thompson
Fridays
10pm - Live music with Brian Haddlesey
Saturdays
10pm - Live music with Brian Haddlesey
Sundays
8pm - Open stage hosted by Ryan Van Loon
Mondays
9:30pm - Trivia Night hosted by Cam Green
Tuesdays
9pm - Vintage Tuesdays ft Brendan Lawless
Wednesdays
9pm - Live music
The Mill Restaurant and Pub
990 Ontario St., Cobourg
(905) 377-8177
Thursday, September 13
7pm - Northern Hearts
Coming Soon
Thursday, September 20 7pm - Detour
Moody's Bar & Grill
3 Tupper St., Millbrook
(705) 932-6663
Saturday, September 15
2-5pm - Charlie Glasspool, Wyatt Burton and Trevor Davis of The Silver Hearts
Murphy's Lockside Pub & Patio
3 May St., Fenelon Falls
(705) 887-1100
Sunday, September 16
4-8pm - Halfway to St. Patrick's Day Annual Party w/ live music by Michael O'Grady and Jason Lynn
Oasis Bar & Grill
31 King St. E., Cobourg
(905) 372-6634
Sundays
5:30pm - PHLO
Pappas Billiards
407 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 742-9010
Thursday, September 13
7-10pm - Open Mic
Saturday, September 15
1-3pm - Shipwrecked Saturdays with Keigan & Whitney and special musical guest
Partista Café
23 Bridge St., Bancroft
613-630-0063
Coming Soon
Friday, September 28 7-11pm - John Foreman's Open Mic Cafe
Pastry Peddler
17 King St., Millbrook
(705) 932-7333
Coming Soon
Friday, September 28 7pm - Robert Atyeo ($20)
Publican House Brewery
300 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 874-5743
Friday, September 14
6-9pm - Cindy and Scott
Saturday, September 15
7-10pm - House Brand
Sunday, September 16
3-6pm - Ace and the Kid
Puck' N Pint Sports Pub
871 Chemong Rd., Peterborough
(705) 741-1078
Fridays
8pm - Open mic hosted by Andy McDonald
Tuesdays
8pm - Open mic hosted by Bobby Watson
Red Dog Tavern
189 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 741-6400
Thursday, September 13
Comedy at the Red Dog
Saturday, September 15
9pm - Rainbow Romp Pride Edition dance for LGBT+ and supporters ft DJ Jeffary Fudge ($5 at door with all proceeds going to Rainbow Services Organization)
Tuesday, September 18
9pm - Open mic w/ Matt Diamond (sign up at 8pm)
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 29 10pm - Union City w/ The Bowtie Killers ($5 at door0
Friday, October 12 The Crooked, Say Ritual, Tijuana Jesus
8pm - Peterborough Pride Spoken Word Spectacular ft Janice Lee and Inali Barger ($5-10 or PWYC)
The Social
295 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 874-6724
Friday, September 14
9pm - Kris Barclay
Saturday, September 15
9pm - Orangeman
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 29 10pm - Head of The Trent After Pary ft Austin Carson Band
Southside Pizzeria
25 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough
(705) 748-6120
Fridays
9am-12pm - Open mic hosted by Jim Russel
Tuesdays
9am-12pm - Open mic hosted by Art Lajambe
Turtle John's Pub & Restaurant
64 John St., Port Hope
(905) 885-7200
Saturday, September 15
10pm - Joker
The Twisted Wheel
379 Water St., Peterborough
Thursday, September 13
7-10pm - Washboard Hank's Backroom Bazaar ft Pays d'en Haut; 11pm - Hell Yeah! Karaoke
The Venue
286 George Street North, Peterborough
(705) 876-0008
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 29 5:30-10pm - Two Rooms Live "A Celebration of the Music & Lyrics of Elton John & Bernie Taupin" in support of Global Angel Foundation (reserved dinner & show $139.95, general admission show at 8pm only $65, advance tickets at https://eventpass.ca/events/two-rooms-live-elton-john-bernie-taupin-the-venue-9-28/)
Design concept of the transformed Bata Library when completed. Around 90 per cent of the construction and renovation process has been completed to date, when the library scheduled to re-open in phases in the fall of 2018. As part of the transformation, Trent University is donating 250,000 books to the Internet Archive to be digitized as part of the organization's Open Libraries project. (Illustration: Trent University)
The Bata Library at Trent University is donating 250,000 books to the Internet Archive to be digitized and preserved for easy access by all students and future generations.
The Internet Archive is a non-profit digital library offering free universal access to books, movies, and music, as well as 338 billion archived web pages. The Internet Archive’s Open Libraries project aims to bring four million books online, through purchase or digitization, while honouring the rights of creators and expanding their online reach.
The Open Libraries project with the Internet Archive allows Trent University to make more space for innovative new spaces and technologies in the refurbished Bata Library, opening this fall.
“Trent is extremely pleased to partner with the Internet Archive to share and preserve an important part of the Bata Library’s rich print collections,” says university librarian Robert Clarke, university librarian.
The donation of books for digitization will allow Trent University students and faculty to continue to have access to resources once held at the Bata Library and, at the same time, will provide access to readers worldwide through the Open Libraries’ controlled lending program.
“We are pleased to partner with Trent University on this fantastic donation,” says Chris Freeland, director of Open Libraries. “These materials will help round out our research collections, and while they may have had limited circulation in physical form, our experience shows that these books will find new audiences once they have been made easily discoverable and usable online.”
The transformed Bata Library will include an entrepreneurship and social innovation centre, visualization labs, research centres, makerspace, interactive student spaces, a living wall, and much more.
Members of the cast during a rehearsal for the upcoming production of "The Music of ABBA", a fundraiser of the not-for-profit organization's capital campaign, which runs from October 12 to 14, 2018. The homegrown show features a local cast of 12 singers and six dancers, and the final production will feature original costumes by designer Howard Berry. (Photo: Wayne Bonner)
This October, the music of Swedish pop superstars ABBA comes to Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough in a special fundraising event featuring the glitz and glitter of the disco era in a unique presentation that’s distinctly home grown.
Showplace presents The Music of ABBA: A Showplace Fundraiser
When: Friday, October 12 and Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 8 p.m.; Sunday, October 14, 2018 at 2 p.m. Where: Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough) How much: $34
A fundraiser for Showplace’s capital campaign. Directed by Len Lifchus and produced by Pat Hooper with musical direction by Bill Crane, choreography by Melissa Earle, and costumes by Howard Berry. Featuring Bill Crane, Rosemarie Barnes, Roy Braun, Karen Ruth Brown, Kevin Carter, Christie Freeman, Gillian Harknett, Tim Jeffries, Heather Knetchel, Theresa McMullen, Darcy Mullen, Kristin Taylor, Susie Cox, Heather Boyd, Madie Earle, Jake Roberts, and Melissa Earle. Tickets available at the Showplace Box Office, by phone at 705-742-7469, or online at www.showplace.org.
Created by the same production team that brought Cats and Ain’t Misbehavin’ to Showplace, Len Lifchus, Pat Cooper, Bill Crane, Melissa Earle, and Howard Berry are teaming up with 12 of Peterborough’s most respected vocalists and six fabulous dancers for a celebration of ABBA’s music and to kick off Showplace’s campaign to raise money to purchase new seating for the theatre.
“The show is a fundraiser for Showplace and it’s the beginning of a capital campaign we are doing,” says producer Pat Hooper, who is also chair of the board of directors of Showplace, a not-for-profit organization.
“We need new seats, but there are other things in the theatre that need to be upgraded as well.”
ABBA has been back on the cultural radar in a huge way in 2018. This past summer, the feature film Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again hit theatres. On September 28th, pop diva Cher is releasing a new album consisting entirely of ABBA cover songs.
And in December, the original members of ABBA — Agnetha Faltskog, Bjorn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad — will be releasing their first new recordings together in over 35 years.
However, as Pat reveals, Showplace’s ABBA show was in production long before this year’s resurgence of the pop music icons.
“We’ve been fortunate that we hit the wave of what has been happening with ABBA this year,” Pat says. “We actually started planning this last fall. We’ve been working on it for a long time.”
Having sold around 400 million albums, ABBA needs little introduction. No matter what corner of the world people live in, ABBA has been a part of their musical landscape. Formed in Stockholm in 1972 by song-writing partners Benny and Bjorn and female singers Agnetha and Anni-Frid, ABBA found international fame in 1974 when they won the Eurovision song-writing competition with “Waterloo”. The song quickly hit the top of the charts on every continent, and for the next eight years the band put out hit after hit, including a total of 20 on the Billboard Top 100.
“The Music of ABBA” is directed by Len Lifchus and produced by Pat Hooper with musical direction by Bill Crane, choreography by Melissa Earle, and costumes by Howard Berry. (Photos: Wayne Bonner)
Songs such as “Dancing Queen”, “S.O.S.”, “Mamma Mia”, “The Name of the Game”, “Super Trouper”, “Fernando”, “Take a Chance on Me”, “The Winner Takes It All”, and more too numerous to name, are some of the most beloved pop songs ever written and continue to be embraced by multiple generations. Like perennial gems in a musical garden, ABBA’s music continues to find new audiences through stage shows, film, tribute bands, and constant play on every media platform.
“ABBA wrote great music,” says musical director Bill Crane. “It’s simple, it’s straightforward, and it goes straight to the soul. Especially if you’re from the disco age, the music just sparkles with the glow ball.”
Len Lifchus is directing “The Music of ABBA”. The production features ABBA’s greatest hits, as well as five songs from the 1984 Broadway production of “Chess”, which was written by Tim Rice and ABBA song-writers Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson. (Photo: Wayne Bonner)
“It’s also interesting how many different styles of music are heard in ABBA’s music,” Pat points out. “There is some classical, Spanish, and even rap in their music.”
“But it’s all about the beat,” director Len Lifchus adds. “People love to dance to the beat.”
The Showplace tribute to ABBA started as the brainchild of Bill Crane, who admits that he came to appreciate the music of ABBA later than most fans. It wasn’t until he saw the Toronto production of Mamma Mia that he became a fan.
“When ABBA was hot between 1974 and 1982 I was too busy getting a degree and raising a family to be paying attention to what they were doing,” Bill explains. “But I got tickets to see Mamma Mia and, well, I was just not prepared for it. We had fabulous seats and the show was just electric. I just fell in love with it.
“I’ve come to understand that Benny and Bjorn wrote some of the most perfect examples of popular idiom that has ever been done. The music is fabulous, and the words are a vehicle for this infectious and electric music. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to do this show.”
The show will not just feature the music of ABBA, but also five songs from the Broadway production of Chess, which was written by Benny and Bjorn alongside Tim Rice in 1984 and spawned the international hit “One Night in Bangkok” made famous by Murray Head.
“There are a number of fabulous songs from Chess, and we are including five of those songs in the show,” Len says.
“I think the Chess music is a great foil for the rest of the show,” Bill adds.
Making up the company are a collective of some of Peterborough’s theatrical elite, along with some recognizable faces and voices in our community including Bill Crane, Rosemarie Barnes, Roy Braun, Karen Ruth Brown, Kevin Carter, Christie Freeman, Gillian Harknett, Tim Jeffries, Heather Knetchel, Theresa McMullen, Darcy Mullen, and Kristin Taylor.
They are accompanied by dancers Susie Cox, Heather Boyd, Madie Earle, and Jake Roberts under the direction of choreographer Melissa Earle (who will also be dancing in the show).
Although ABBA wrote some of the most infectious dance music of all time, the band never actually danced while performing. As a result, Melissa had to find inspiration from other sources, as well as from her own creative vision, to choreograph the show.
“The Music of ABBA” is choreographed by Melissa Earle. Because ABBA never actually danced during their performances, Melissa found her inspiration from the mood and style of the songs and from the film version of the musical “Mamma Mia”. (Photo: Wayne Bonner)
“I got more inspiration from the Mamma Mia movie and stage show than watching videos of ABBA themselves,” Melissa says. “I draw my inspiration from the mood and style of the songs and from the film.”
But Melissa isn’t just in charge of getting her dancers to move. She is also putting the musical performers through dance sequences as well.
“I’ve had to find a nice balance of complex movement and dancing that isn’t overly complicated for the singers because they are concentrating on singing,” Melissa explains. “It’s not like Cats where I had oodles and oodles of dancers. I have five dancers and then singers who move well.”
“The Music of ABBA” features musical direction by Bill Crane, who fell in love with ABBA’s music after seeing the Toronto production of the musical “Mamma Mia”. (Photo: Wayne Bonner)
Meanwhile, costume master Howard Berry turned his apartment upside down to create the flamboyant look of the show.
“I am doing 38 costumes,” Howard says. “I have six ladies sewing in my apartment Tuesday and Thursday from ten a.m. to three p.m. I have racks in my living room and my bedroom. My dining room is a disaster — it’s just sewing machines.”
Although they are beloved for their music, it’s often been written that ABBA could be one of pop’s worst-dressed bands, with some questionable costume designs during the height of their career. Howard has decided to avoid these fashion faux pas by creating a look that celebrates the era without recreating ABBA’s actual look.
“We are not doing ABBA’s costumes,” Howard explains. “We are going for what we think the ’70s looked like. It’s a bit of what we wore in the 70s, a bit of in between, and a bit of now. I watched Tyra Banks on America’s Got Talent and the last two weeks she came out in jumpsuits and bell bottoms.
“Everyone in our show is in jumpsuits, and although Len didn’t want them, he is getting bell bottoms. The pattern books are full of them. Everything is sequenced, glittery, and colourful. All of act one is in peaches and lime green and bits of taupe colours, while all of act two is in bright primary colours — red, blues, blacks, and golds. It’s just dazzling. It’s going to be good.”
The production team and cast of “The Music of ABBA”, a fundraiser for Showplace Performance Centre that runs for three public performances from October 12 to 14, 2018. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
Although ABBA is always a favourite of audiences, there are a lot of shows featuring the music of ABBA every year in Peterborough and this one won’t be the last (Lakefield College School announced last week that they will be putting on Mamma Mia as their annual musical). I posed the question to the creative team what was different and unique about this production over others we’ve seen before.
“It’s twelve fantastic Peterborough singers and five dancers and everybody is loving what they’re doing,” Len states. “Usually you go to an ABBA show you see four people stand up and look like ABBA. We’re not replicating ABBA. This is a salute to ABBA, Peterborough style. That’s the difference. It will be an interesting experience.”
“This is the music that you know, with Peterborough flair,” Bill adds. “It’s our show done our way.”
Although the company is still secretive about revealing too much of the show, after my visit with the production team I was invited to see a sneak peek of the show’s first act finale of “One Night in Bangkok” mashed up with “Voulez-Vous”.
Featuring Roy Braun, Darcy Mundle, and Tim Jeffries as soloists for the number, “One Night in Bangkok” is a big production number that the entire company performed with tons of conviction.
Upon its conclusion, Len looked over at me, gave me a thumbs up, and said, “That’s the difference. That’s how Peterborough does ABBA.”
VIDEO: The ABBA Top 40: Their Greatest Hits
The Music of ABBA: A Showplace Fundraiser runs on Friday, October 12th and Saturday, October 13th at 8 p.m., and Sunday, October 14th at 2 p.m. Tickets are $34 and are available at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough), by phone at 705-742-7469, or online at www.showplace.org. There’s also a preview performance on Thursday, October 11th, but tickets for that performance are not available to the general public.
The Music of ABBA: A Showplace Fundraiser has been made possible by the following sponsors: Monkman, Gracie and Johnson; Liftlock Group; Investor’s Group; Grant Thornton; Medical Centre Hearing Services; Porter Sound; kawarthaNOW.com; Revolutions Dance Studio; Long and McQuade; Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre; and Renegade Apparel.
From uneaten leftovers to untouched fruits and vegetables to food that is forgotten, households waste more food than restaurants, hotels, stores, and farms combined. Around $1,500 worth of food per household gets thrown out every year -- around one out of six bags of groceries per week!
The end of summer marks a time of abundance and to local growers it is a time for harvest. In Peterborough, September is designated Local Food Month and from fall fairs to festivals in the park, this month is filled with events to support local farmers.
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Danica Jarvis, GreenUP Environmental Education Coordinator.
Strengthening our urban and rural connection to food allows us to become more aware of the cycle of food.
For most of us, this includes thinking about where our food comes from — but have you ever thought about what happens after we throw food away?
In Canada, nearly half of our food waste comes from households, from uneaten leftovers, untouched fruits and vegetables, and food that is “bought and forgot”. All this wasted food adds up in the environment.
“The amount of land, water, and labour resources devoted to growing precious food, only to have 40 per cent of it treated as garbage, is abhorrent in this era of exploding populations and diminishing resources,” explains Virginia Swinson, Waste Diversion Section Manager with the City of Peterborough. “The willful wasting of food must no longer be condoned and tolerated.”
Food waste has a large price tag for the environment and the economy. Landfills are running out of space, especially for preventable waste. When food is left to rot, like at a landfill, it emits methane gas, a greenhouse gas that warms the planet about 30 times as much as carbon dioxide.
Each household in our community spends approximately $1,500 per year on food that gets thrown out. That means that for every six bags of groceries you purchase, one is being thrown away!
Each household in the Peterborough community spends approximately $1,500 per year on food that gets thrown out in the form of uneaten leftovers, untouched fruits and vegetables, and food that is “bought and forgot”. (Graphic courtesy of GreenUP)
“Unlike many other problems in the world, we as individuals have the ability to change this appalling statistic,” says Swinson.
Several community organizations have come together to take action in order to create awareness around this important issue; Peterborough Public Health, City of Peterborough, County of Peterborough, GreenUP, Sustainable Peterborough, and Nourish will be hosting a food waste event for local food month.
The “Food … too good to waste” event takes place on Thursday, September 27, 2018 at 7 p.m.. at Peterborough Public Health at 185 King Street in downtown Peterborough.
The “Food … too good to waste” event takes place on Thursday, September 27th at 7 p.m.. Join us at Peterborough Public Health at 185 King Street in downtown Peterborough to explore the impact of wasted food on our community, economy, and environment. Guest speakers will share their perspectives on food waste, both locally and provincially.
There are several steps each of us can take to avoid wasting food.
“It starts with each and every one of us adjusting our shopping and eating habits,” Swinson says.
Meal planning and proper food storage are two skills we can all acquire to stop wasted food, save money, and be healthier.
According to Luisa Magalhaes, Registered Dietitian with Peterborough Public Health:
“When you plan, shop for, prepare, and eat meals made with whole foods, instead of convenience food, you get more vitamins, minerals, fibre, protein, and healthy fats along with less fried foods or added sugar and salt.”
Here are some tips to get you started reducing your food waste:
Be Mindful
When shopping, bring a list and try to stick to it. It’s easy to get caught up in deals especially at big box stores, but remind yourself and your stomach of what you can actually consume that week.
Plan it Out
Start out simple and make a grocery list. This will set you up for success when trying to meal plan for the first time. Take time each week to make a meal plan (this could also include enjoying a cup of coffee or glass of wine). Get the whole family involved, try new recipes, or plan theme nights to make meal-planning fun instead of a chore.
Love your Leftovers
Plan for leftovers when preparing a dinner. Learn to cook the leftovers in a new way if they don’t seem appetizing the second time around. An easy way to stay healthy during the busy workweek is to plan for a second meal while cooking. We are less likely to grab something on the go, which is likely to be unhealthy, if we have planned ahead and brought a lunch. The bonus is, kids can enjoy a thermos full of warm lunch!
Store Food Properly
Keep track of what’s in your fridge when unloading new groceries. Make sure that older items get eaten first before opening something new. There are many resources and containers that can help you store certain vegetables and fruit. Do some research to get the most out of your food.
The “Food … too good to waste” event hopes to educate and inspire change around food waste in our community. For more information about the event or for further resources on avoiding food waste, please visit www.foodinpeterborough.ca.
The 2018 annual Curve Lake Pow Wow takes place this weekend (Saturday, September 15th and Sunday, September 16th) at Lance Wood Park in Curve Lake. (Photo: Michael Hurcomb)
Welcome To The Chamber’s New Engagement Coordinator
Samantha Carmichael is the Chamber’s new acting Engagement Coordinator.
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce and Tourism would like to welcome Samantha Carmichael to the team as the Chamber’s acting Engagement Coordinator.
Sam grew up in Peterborough and on Stoney Lake. In 2016, Sam obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree from McGill University in Canadian Studies and Political Science. Sam is interested in community engagement and Canadian culture. In her spare time, Sam enjoys photography, spending time at her cottage,and exploring all that the Kawarthas has to offer.
Register now for Bridgenorth Hop on September 19th
Join the Chamber on Wednesday, September 19th from 5 to 7 p.m. for the September Business After Hours “Bridgenorth Hop”.
The event beings promptly at 5 p.m. at TCB Office Furniture and Supplies, and small groups will travel to visit Chamber members in the community of Bridgenorth including Bridgenorth Deli, and Style Boutique.
Enjoy an evening of networking, touring member businesses, and meeting fellow Chamber members.
The Chamber thanks its networking event sponsor, Blue Diamond Window Cleaning.
Welcome New Member – Whelan’s Flooring Centre
Whelan’s Flooring Centre 2512 Chemong Road, Selwyn, 705-292-9565, whelansflooring.com
A family-owned and run business, Whelan’s Flooring Centre has the largest warehouse in the area and a vast selection of floor coverings. Our experienced sales and installation team are dedicated to providing answers and suggestions so that you get exactly what you want. We take pride in what we do and it shows in our personalized approach to your flooring needs.
Municipal All-Candidate Meetings
The Kawartha Chamber is proud to be a partner on the following municipal All Candidates Meetings.
Municipality of Trent Lakes All-Candidates Meeting
Thursday, September 13th at Buckhorn Community Centre (782 Lakehurst Rd., Buckhorn)
The program begins at 7 p.m. Hosted by the Buckhorn Ratepayers Association and the Kawartha Chamber.
Township of Selwyn All-Candidates Meeting
Wednesday, October 10th at Bridgenorth Community Hall (836 Charles St., Bridgenorth)
The program begins at 7 p.m. Hosted by the Bridgenorth Business Association, Lakefield Herald, and the Kawartha Chamber.
Township of Douro-Dummer All-Candidates Meeting
Thursday, October 11th at Douro-Dummer Community Centre (2893 Hwy. 28, Douro-Dummer)
The program begins at 7 p.m. Hosted by Dummer News and the Kawartha Chamber.
Submit Your Questions
If you would like to submit a question for any of the meetings listed above, please email your question to info@kawarthachamber.ca. Please include the subject line “All Candidates Question: [Insert Township Name Here]”, and specify if the question is for a specific candidate, or directed at all candidates. Here is a list of municipal candidates.
Are You Registered to Vote?
Ontario’s municipal and school board elections are coming up on October 22nd. To ensure your voter information is up to date before October, visit www.voterlookup.ca to confirm and update electoral information, add an elector name to your address, and/or change which school you support.
Support the Curve Lake Habitat Build
The Kawartha Chamber has formed a Women’s Build Team for the Habitat for Humanity build in Curve Lake First Nation.
You can help the Chamber with the fundraising initiative by making a donation through the Chamber’s fundraising page.
Each dollar donated will buy a ‘square foot’ on the house floor plan, where you can write your name or the name of your company. The Chamber’s goal is to raise $1,000. A special thank you to Erin McLean of McLean Berry Farm for her recent donation.
Learn about the importance of establishing trust, setting goals, and honouring the goals of others.
Team building can help with self-esteem, developing communication skills, encouraging risk-taking, provide strategies for solving problems, and encourage cooperation.
Refreshments will be provided.
Earn A Free Chamber Membership
Reminder that the Chamber is giving away FREE memberships.
Pay your membership within 30 days of the invoice date and you will be entered in a draw to win next year’s membership for free! The draw will take place at the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting in February 2019.
If you know a business or organization that is not a Chamber member, encourage them to join! Tell them to mention your name when they sign up, and when they have signed up and paid, you will earn 10 per cent off your membership next year. For each new member you refer, you will receive 10 per cent off — and there is no limit! Refer 10 new members and you have earned a free Basic Membership.
A reminder that the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario is looking for feedback from Ontario businesses on Bill 148. The survey closes this week on September 14th.
The 10-question survey is designed to gauge how the amendments to Ontario’s employment standards, labour relations and occupational health and safety legislation have impacted businesses since January 1st.
This weekend on Saturday, September 15th, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region will be hosting its Amazing Habitat Race, a fun-filled event based on the hit TV show The Amazing Race.
The event is raising funds to support the 5th Habitat for Humanity build in Kawartha Lakes.
All funds raised from this event will be used for purchasing construction materials for their semi-detached family homes on Hamilton Street in Lindsay.
Debbie Yale is Celebrating 35 Years at Savage Arms Canada
Savage Arms (Canada) production manager Debbie Yale is celebrating 35 years at the business. Savage Arms (Canada) first welcomed Debbie in 1984, when the business was Lakefield Arms.
In her starting position, she was responsible for making the front of a rifle bolt. After numerous promotions in 1990, 1994 and 2001 for her hard-work and talent, she was promoted to production manager in 2013.
Congratulations, Debbie!
BAC At The Bonfire – September 18th
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development’s Business Advisory Centre is hosting their annual BAC at the Bonfire for local members of the business community on Tuesday, September 18th from 6:30 to 8:30pm at Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene.
Gain valuable insight from guest speakers, share stories, and network with like-minded professionals.
Curve Lake Pow Wow This Weekend – September 15th and 16th
A dancer in regalia at 2007 Curve Lake Pow Wow (photo courtesy of Curve Lake Cultural Centre)
The annual Curve Lake Pow Wow is taking place this weekend on Saturday, September 15th and Sunday, September 16th at Lance Wood Park in Curve Lake.
There will be two days of dancing, contests, and presentations to re-establish old friendships and meet new people. There will be many vendors and performers in attendance, and vendors will be selling traditional crafts, artwork, jewelry, food. and more.
There is a Sunrise Ceremony at 6 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday as well as a Grand Entry at 12 pm on Saturday & Sunday. All neighbors from surrounding communities are welcome to join in most of the festivities.
Admission is $8 (13 to 59 year olds), $5 (6 to 12 year olds), and free for children 5 and under.
For the first time ever, the Township of Selwyn will be using internet and telephone voting for the upcoming municipal election!
The Township of Selwyn is hosting three ‘How-To” workshops in order to help voters learn this new voting technology. At the workshops, you will be able to check if you are registered as well as learn how to vote online.
Workshops will be held at the following times and locations:
Thursday, September 20th at 1 p.m. at Bridgenorth Library, 836 Charles St.
Monday, September 24th at 10 a.m. at Ennismore Library, 551 Ennis Rd.
Wednesday, September 26th at 10 a.m. Lakefield Library, 8 Queen St.
If your business or organization has a job opportunity you would like to advertise, you can add it to the Chamber’s website through your Member Information Centre account (or submit the description to info@kawarthachamber.ca) and the Chamber will share it in its next Newsflash.
Info Session: Understanding The Opioid Crisis – September 26th
An opioid information session is being held at the Selwyn Outreach Centre (2688 Lakefield Rd.) on Wednesday, September 26th beginning at 7 p.m.
Attendees will hear from a panel of experts on the growing issue of opioid abuse in the Peterborough area. Panelists include Dr. Rosana Salvaterra (Peterborough Medical Officer of Health), Dan Farrow (paramedic supervisor and firefighter), and Jim Carson (retired police officer).
Admission is free, and all are welcome. Learn more.
Summit On Aging: Dementia Dialogues – October 25th
The Summit on Aging’s Dementia Dialogues: Living Life Fully is taking place on Thursday, October 25th from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Trent University, Gzowski College.
The summit features panelists and speakers in the areas of primary care and diagnosis, legal issues, community and lived experiences, including keynote speaker Dr. Peter Lin, Director of Primary Care Initiatives at the Canadian Heart Research Centre and health columnist for CBC Radio, and special guest Karin Wells, CBC Radio documentary maker.
If you are providing care for a person with dementia and would like to attend this event, there will be a free VON Adult Day Program on-site. Call 705-745-9155 (ext 6423) to register in advance.
Parking at event is free. If you are taking public transit, print your ticket and display it to Peterborough Transit for a free ride to and from the summit.
All-Candidates Meeting: Trent Lakes – September 13th
Cruise Night at Craftworks – Every Thursday until September 13th
Trail Walk with the Lakefield Trail Stewardship Committee – September 15th
Apsley Autumn Studio Tour – September 15th – 16th
2018 Fall Automotive Flea Market and Car Show – September 15th – 16th
Lakefield Farmers’ Market – Every Thursday Until October 4th
Farmers’ Market at Craftworks at the Barn – Every Sunday until Thanksgiving
For more information about the businesses and events listed above, please visit the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism website at kawarthachamber.ca.
All photos supplied by Kawartha Chamber of Commerce except where noted.
"The Shadow Walk of Millbrook", part ghost walk and part theatre, is one of two off-season productions 4th Line Theatre is presenting in October and December, along with "The Other: A Strange Christmas Tale". Both productions take place outdoors in Millbrook. (Photo: Wayne Eardley / Brookside Studio)
Millbrook’s renowned outdoor theatre company 4th Line Theatre is staging two off-season plays in October and December, including a resurrection of The Shadow Walk of Millbrook from 2016.
Unlike the regular season plays, which are staged at Winslow Farm, both plays will take place on the streets and paths of Millbrook, requiring audience members to be able to actively participate.
The first of the two plays, The Shadow Walk of Millbrook, is a Halloween-themed play originally presented in October 2016. 4th Line’s first off-season play, it proved very popular, with all performances selling out weeks before the premiere.
Part ghost walk and part theatre, The Shadow Walk of Millbrook was written by Paul Braunstein and Monica Dottor and is directed by 4th Line Theatre’s managing artistic director Kim Blackwell. Featuring 16 performers — actors, aerialists, and dancers — in 21 scenes, the show takes its audience on a journey through Millbrook’s paranormal history in a unique walking tour that begins at the Old Millbrook School.
4th Line Theatre first presented “The Shadow Walk of Millbrook”, written by Paul Braunstein and Monica Dottor and directed by Kim Blackwell, in October 2016. All performances of the production sold out before the premiere. (Photo: Wayne Eardley / Brookside Studio)
“The play that Paul and Monica have created is funny, compelling, and has genuinely creepy stories of Millbrook paranormal history and local ghosts,” Blackwell says. “I am excited to bring back this walking tour, starting at the Old Millbrook School and winding down through the streets and paths of Millbrook.”
As might be expected for a Halloween play, the production will run for 13 performances, with shows at 7 p.m. from Tuesday, October 16th to Sunday, October 21st, and Tuesday, October 23rd to Friday, October 26th, and “spookier” performances at 9 p.m. on Friday, October 19th, Saturday, October 20th, and Friday, October 26th.
All performances will contain some startling and frightening scenes, so the show is not recommended for children under the age of 10.
Featuring 16 performers in 21 scenes, “The Shadow Walk of Millbrook” takes its audience on a journey through Millbrook’s paranormal history in a unique walking tour that begins at the Old Millbrook School. (Photo: Wayne Eardley / Brookside Studio)
4th Line Theatre has also announced the world premiere of its first winter production, The Other: A Strange Christmas Tale by playwright Beverley Cooper. Also directed by Blackwell, this Christmas-themed play will feature more than 11 actors and musicians.
The play, which begins at St. Thomas Anglican Church at 16 Centre Street, tells the story of a mysterious woman who arrives in Millbrook on the night of the Christmas pageant. As audience members follow, a girl and her grandfather search the streets and shops of Millbrook to find out who the mysterious woman is and where she came from.
In December, 4th Line Theatre is also presenting the world premiere of “The Other: A Strange Christmas Tale” by playwight Beverley Cooper, best known for her play “Innocence Lost: A Play about Steven Truscott”, which was a finalist for the 2009 Governor General’s Literary Award. (Photo: Beverley Cooper)
“We had such an amazing response from our audience last December when we did our reading that we knew we had something special,” Blackwell says. “This play is spin on a classic with unique elements only 4th Line could pull off. It’s a wonderful way to start the Christmas season with your family and friends.”
The Christmas production will run for six performances only, with shows at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 5th, Friday, December 7th, Saturday, December 8th, and Wednesday, December 12th to Friday, December 14th.
Tickets for either The Shadow Walk of Millbrook or The Other: A Strange Christmas Tale are $25 per person. Tickets are limited, as each performance can accommodate only 80 people.
As noted, both productions take place outdoors on the streets and paths of Millbrook, travelling up and down dark trails and uneven terrain for around one kilometre.
4th Line asks each patron to dress for the weather (each performance will go on regardless of the weather), wear appropriate footwear, and bring a flashlight with them to the performance.
Tickets and gift certificates are available by phone at 705-932-4445, online at 4thlinetheatre.on.ca, or in person at 4th Line Theatre’s Box Office at 4 Tupper Street in Millbrook.
4th Line Theatre is also looking for volunteers to help guide patrons during both off-season productions, and other duties such as assisting back stage. If you’re interested in getting involved (you get to see the show free of charge), contact Kate McGregor at kate@4thlinetheatre.on.ca for more information.
Before the Cultivate Festival weekend on September 21-23, 2018 in Port Hope, Cultivate presents "Love Local Food?", where 12 restaurants in Northumberland and Clarington will offer a variety of fixed-price menus focused on local food now until September 20th. (Photo: Cultivate)
This month, food writer Eva Fisher discovers some of Cultivate’s exciting pop-up events leading up to the festival weekend, learns about some of the edible wild mushrooms that are ready to harvest, finds out exactly what to wear to a Drag Queen High Tea, and checks out what’s sprouting at this year’s Peterborough Vegfest.
Cultivate Festival, taking place this month, is expanding its offerings beyond its original weekend format. Organizer Jeff Bray has partnered with a variety of local food businesses to create a series of pre-festival pop-up events celebrating the food and drink of Northumberland.
Love local food? Twelve restaurants throughout Northumberland and Clarington have you covered. Restaurants participating in the appropriately named “Love Local Food?” campaign will offer a variety of fixed-price menus focused on local food now until September 20th.
Head to The Bakery (Warkworth) for a Buttermilk Scone with Fresh Berries, Glazed with Honey, and Alternative Grounds Coffee, or dine at Woodlawn Inn (Cobourg) for a four course meal featuring Individual Bison Tenderloin Wellington, Mushroom Duxelle, Port and Mushroom Gravy, Fresh Ontario Vegetables, and a dessert of Maple Crème Brûlée with Ontario wine pairing. Full details about the participating restaurants are available on Cultivate’s website at cultivatefestival.ca.
Cultivate is also offering a series of popup events leading up to this year’s festival weekend on September 21st to 23rd in Port Hope, including several events cohosted by The Land Canadian Adventures. (Photo: Cultivate)
In addition to the fixed price menus, Cultivate is offering experiential pop-ups throughout the region.
“Wild Edibles of the Ganaraska” (September 16th) is an excursion led by The Land Canadian Adventures. They take participants along the banks of the Ganaraska River to identify edible wild plants. Jeff points out that it’s a particularly exciting time of year to walk along the Ganaraska because of the salmon run. The wild plant tour will culminate with a shore lunch featuring fish and wild edibles.
Caleb Musgrave from Canadian Bushcraft and The Land Canadian Adventures will host “Food of the Land with Caleb Musgrave” (September 15th). This progressive dinner will showcase the history of traditional food at Hiawatha First Nation from an Indigenous and settler perspective. Jeff says that this event will showcase how important Hiawatha has been to our food landscape in this region.
As well as these dinners, South Pond Farms will host “Beer and Canapes”, an educational pairing event featuring local beverages from Church-key Brewery.
The Cultivate Festival, held September 21st to 23rd in downtown Port Hope, features live music, food demonstrations, and lots of food and drink. (Photo: Cultivate)
Haute Goat is offering “Milk a Goat, Make Goat Cheese!” (September 15th). Participants will milk a goat and make goat mozzarella on this beautiful Northumberland Hills farm.
All of these events lead up to the festival weekend, September 21st to 23rd, which will involve live music, educational demonstrations, and an incredible variety of food and drink, all taking place in downtown Port Hope (stay tuned for our upcoming feature story on Cultivate).
Jeff would like to see Cultivate continue to grow.
“Part of me dreams of a month-long festival of food and drink in this region, something where people can come and experience what we have to offer at any point in time, and these are baby steps towards that dream.”
This dream is fed by an appreciation for all of the incredible food in the Northumberland region.
“We love what this region has to offer, and we think that in a lot of cases it’s underappreciated and overlooked, particularly in terms of tourism” Jeff says. “We think that more needs to celebrate our rich history and the current landscape of farm to table food and drink.”
Mushroom hike at Gamiing Nature Centre: fun-gis and fun-gals welcome
Is it safe to eat? Learn to identify edible wild mushrooms by taking a hike with Luke Eckstein at Gamiing Nature Centre on October 7th. (Photo: Luke Eckstein)
It could be that your next gourmet meal is waiting for you on your front lawn.
On Sunday, October 7th, Luke Eckstein is leading an Introduction to Mushrooms Identification Hike through Gamiing Nature Centre (1884 Pigeon Lake Rd., Lindsay, 705-928-0263). This workshop will allow people to get a feel for the different shapes and structures used to identify mushrooms, as well as some of their edible and medicinal uses, lookalikes and hazards,
Luke has been identifying mushrooms from a young age. His uncle taught him to identify his first mushrooms, but he went on to learn from field guides, going as far as he could without using a microscope. He recommends starting with distinct-looking mushrooms like puffballs, and looking beyond your field guide when it comes to edible mushrooms.
Mushroom instructor Luke Eckstein examines a bolete. (Photo: Luke Eckstein)
“Sometimes the field guides don’t really discuss lookalikes, so it’s really important to have a number of resources available. If you can’t identify it 100 per cent without ruling out all of the lookalikes, then you shouldn’t eat it at all.”
The fall is a great time to spot mushrooms, with boletes, puffballs (giant and common), milkcaps, chanterelles, and black trumpets popping up — to name a few.
Luke’s favourite mushroom to eat is the jelly fungi, particularly the apricot and wood ear jelly fungi.
“They have an interesting texture. They don’t have a lot of flavour, but I really like their texture.”
He also enjoys chanterelles and lobster mushrooms.
Luke says that learning about mushrooms has changed the way he looks at the world around him.
“I find that learning about mushrooms gives you an eye for the details, the little things in nature, and it teaches you a lot about how everything is interconnected. There are a lot of relationships that we don’t see, behind the scenes in nature. It gives you a real appreciation of how the ecosystem works and all the little things in the soil, underground, under the leaf litter, under pine needles. Things we walk over and don’t even realize are going on.”
You can purchase tickets to the Introduction to Mushrooms Identification Hike through Eventbrite.
Drag Queen High Tea brewing at Sadleir House
From left: Ms. Madge Ethat, Daniel Johnson, Ms.Glenda Lewis, and Laura Colasacco at last year’s high tea, which was hosted at Hutchinson House. This year’s sold-out event is hosted at Sadleir House. (Photo: Drew Whatman)
Pinkies out! The second annual Drag Queen High Tea will take place on Sunday, September 16th at Sadleir House (751 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-3686).
Laura Colasacco voluntarily organizes the event to support Peterborough Pride.
She describes the dress code as “make your own high tea style.” Dressing in drag is certainly welcome, but not required.
“It’s a very open space where you can just show up and be who you are.”
Ms. Madge Ethat and Glenda Lewis will host the event, which will involve interactive games and skits starring the fabulous pair.
High Tea will be catered by the Silver Bean and will include earl grey cakes, cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches, ham sandwiches, scones, and desserts.
The cost for this family-friendly event is $25 per person, and only 25 tickets are available.
Note: This year’s event is already sold out, so you’ll have to wait until next year if you’d like to spill some tea with Ms. Madge Ethat and Glenda Lewis.
Peterborough Vegfest is back, and it’s growing
Copper Branch, Peterborough’s latest vegan restaurant, is both a vendor and a sponsor for this year’s Peterborough VegFest, which takes place on Sunday, September 16th at Millennium Park in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Copper Branch / Facebook)
Peterborough Vegfest is returning to Millennium Park in downtown Peterborough on Sunday, September 16th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Organizer Natalie Stephenson says that this year’s Vegfest will be bigger and better than ever. The festival features an incredible variety of plant-based cuisine.
In just one year they have grown from 40 to 70 vendors, 35 of which will be food vendors.
Pierogi Me! Will offer vegan pierogies to Peterborough Vegfest attendees. (Photo: Peterborough VegFest / Facebook)
A key component of Vegfest is the Veg Directory, which is released at the festival. This guide lists all of the local restaurants and food stores that offer vegan-friendly options. This year the guide contains 50 businesses, 15 more than last year’s guide.
Natalie says that this is a reflection of a growing community of vegan-friendly businesses in the region.
“We’re just happy that we’ve been able to help facilitate the growth of vegan options in Peterborough.”
Lunar Rhythm Gardens will offer fresh vegetables at this year’s Peterborough Vegfest. (Photo: Peterborough VegFest / Facebook)
In addition to vendors and the directory, Vegfest offers live music and live demonstrations. This year, cookbook author Sam Turnbull — known for titles including Fuss Free Vegan and her blog It Doesn’t Taste Like Chicken — will give a demonstration of some of her favourite recipes.
Fitness trainer Sam Shorkey, known for her website Jacked on the Beanstalk, will give a presentation on plant based fitness.
To keep the festival sustainable, Natalie recommends that guests bring reusable bags and takeout containers, as well as refillable water bottles. The festival is dog friendly and family friendly, and the first 200 guests will receive swag bags.
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