Christmas tree farms are open for business in the Kawarthas. Barrett's Tree Farm north of Cobourg is a popular destination for harvesting your own Christmas tree. They are also offering horse-drawn wagon rides on weekends until December 15, 2019. (Photo: Barrett's Tree Farm / Facebook)
Visiting a local tree farm to harvest a fresh local Christmas tree is a holiday tradition for many families in the Kawarthas. And, unlike the trees available at grocery stores or roadside stands that usually come from Quebec or Canada’s east coast, these grown-in-Ontario trees are guaranteed to be fresh.
Six tree farms in the Kawarthas are now open for business, offering cut-your-own trees: Oake Family Farm in Cavan-Monaghan, Dawson Christmas Tree Farm in Millbrook, Potash Creek Farms in Omemee, Barrett’s Tree Farm in Cobourg, J & D Trees in Colborne, and Kol Tree Farms in Roseneath. Both Murray Tree Farm in Apsley and Little Lake Christmas Trees in Cramahe are closed for the 2019 season (they’ll be reopening for Christmas 2020).
If you’re willing to drive just outside the Kawarthas, you can also harvest your own tree at Powell’s Trees in Bowmanville and Blackstock Christmas Tree Farm in Blackstock.
Advertisement - content continues below
If you plan to harvest your own tree, bring your own saw (although some farms have limited saws available). Most of the farms also offer pre-cut trees, although these are usually a little more expensive and there may bea limited selection.
Most tree farms accept cash only (Potash Creek Farms also accepts credit cards and tap debit), and some also offer goodies like hot chocolate and apple cider as well as activities for the family such as horse-drawn wagon rides.
Here’s where you can harvest your own Christmas tree in the Kawarthas:
Besides helping the local economy (more than 600 Christmas tree farms in Ontario generate around $12 million), farm-grown natural Christmas tree have other benefits.
Christmas trees are one of the most environmentally friendly crops. It takes up to 10 years to grow each tree and, during this time, the trees remove carbon dioxide and airborne pollutants from the atmosphere (up to 13 tons per acre!) and provide protective havens for a wide variety of birds and mammals.
It’s also a sustainable crop — for every tree that’s harvested, at least three seedlings are planted in its place.
Potash Creek Farms, located north of Highway 7 between Fowlers Corners and Ommeee, offers cut-your-own Spruce and Scotch Pine and pre-cut Balsam Fir. (Photo: Potash Creek Farms)
Natural Christmas trees are also 100 per cent recyclable and biodegradable.
Most municipalities — including those in the Kawarthas — collect discarded natural Christmas trees and chip them for use as mulching materials.
Discarded natural trees can also be used as bird feeders, wood products can be made from their stems, or they can be used as wildlife cover in fish ponds and woodlots.
Advertisement - content continues below
Common types of Christmas trees
If you do decide to harvest your own tree this year (or buy a pre-cut one), here’s a quick primer on the most common tree species available:
Scots Pine (Scotch Pine) – The most popular Christmas tree in Canada, the Scots Pine is a thick and hardy tree. It resists drying and holds its needles well over the holidays. However, the needles are tough and very pointy.
Balsam Fir – Almost as popular as the Scots Pine, the Balsam Fir holds its dark-green needles well and is a good choice if the decorated tree will be left standing for a longer period of time. Balsam fir branches work well for lighter Christmas ornaments, and the tree has a strong fragrance.
J & D Trees in Colborne offers White Spruce, Balsam Fir, and Fraser Fir. (Photo: J & D Trees)
Fraser Fir – A Christmas tree that’s become very popular in recent years, the Fraser Fir is known for holding its attractive dark blue-green needles and its pleasant scent. Fraser Firs are generally more expensive than other trees as the species has a much longer growing cycle.
Norway Spruce – The traditional Christmas tree in Britain, the Norway spruce is attractive but has a tendency to drop its needles, particularly towards the end of the holidays — especially if the tree is not cut fresh and kept properly watered.
White Spruce – The dense foliage and symmetrical proportions of the White Spruce make it a very beautiful Christmas tree. The tree has a strong scent and its strong slender twigs hold ornaments well. However, the White Spruce is very thirsty and must be watered regularly to prevent it from losing its needles.
Advertisement - content continues below
Caring for your tree
Open daily, Powell’s Trees in Bowmanville offers Spruce and Fir. (Photo: Powell’s Trees / Facebook)
After you get your tree, here are some tips to keep it fresh and safe:
If you aren’t setting up the tree immediately, store it outdoors. Keep it in a protected area, away from the wind and sun, to help the tree retain its moisture (an unheated garage is ideal, particularly to keep the tree free of snow). If you plan to store it outside for several days, make a straight cut across the butt end of the tree about one inch from the end, place the butt end in a container of water, and store the tree upright.
When you bring the tree into the house for decorating, make another fresh cut across the trunk, about an inch from the original cut.
Trees can drink up to four litres of water per day, so be sure to use a large stand that can hold that much water. Check the water level daily and supply fresh water as needed. Don’t allow the water level to drop below the bottom of the tree, as a seal will form on the bottom and the tree will stop absorbing water (you’ll have to make a new cut).
Use only fresh water. Don’t add sugar, molasses, bleach, honey, floral preservatives, or other substances to the tree’s water. Experts agree that these do nothing to maintain the freshness of the tree.
Place your tree away from fireplaces, radiators, television sets, and other sources of heat. Turn off the tree lights when you leave and before you retire at night. Under no circumstances should you use lighted candles on a Christmas tree.
A well-maintained tree should normally remain fresh at least three to four weeks before drying to an unacceptable level. Test the dryness of the tree by running your fingers across the needles. If they break easily or fall off in your hand, the tree is dry and should be discarded.
A few of the nearly 50 cast members of Arbor Theatre's original production "Real Rad Red Riding Hood", with a public performance on December 12, 2019 at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough. Pictured at a rehearsal in early December are Naomi DuVall as The Forester, Nathan Bertucci as Basher, Aidan Shaughnessy as the Big Bad Wolf, with Ella Smit, Izzy Desjardins, Saffron O'Neil, Logan Michaelis, Saorse MacQuarrie, Molly Beaston, and Zoe Dunaway as the wolf cubs and Riordan
MacQuarrie as Mouse. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
On Thursday, December 12th, Arbor Theatre — in partnership with Mysterious Entity — makes its long-anticipated return to Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough with the original production Real Rad Red Riding Hood, written and directed by Em Glasspool.
While this is the only public performance, school performances are also available on December 9th, 10th, and 12th that members of the public can attend if they wish.
Arbor Theatre presents Real Rad Red Riding Hood
When: Thursday, December 12, 2019 at 7 p.m. Where: Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough) How much: $18 adults ($15 students/seniors) plus fees
Written and directed by Em Glasspool and produced by Beverley Blodgett-Breedon. Starring Eloise Harvey, Max Hoehn, Aedan Shaughnessy, David Bateman, Naomi Duvall, Nimkii Osawamick, Caitlin O’Connor, and many more. Costume design by Melanie McCall. Stage managed by Cheri Patrick. Set design by John Fewings. Choreography by Dreda Blow. Music composed by Em Glasspool and Curtis Driedger. Tickets are available in person at the Showplace box office, by phone at 705-742-7469, and online. Note:School performances are also available.
Arbor Theatre’s annual Christmas productions have been a holiday tradition for families and schools across the Kawarthas, but Real Rad Red Riding Hood is Arbor’s first show since 2017. It marks a new direction for the long-existing theatre company under the leadership of new creative director Em Glasspool of Mysterious Entity.
Bringing a mostly new and dynamic creative team to Arbor Theatre, Em has maintained the theatre company’s special recipe of combining young performers with celebrated local performers to create a lively and fun show suitable for audiences of all ages.
Although Arbor’s holiday shows have been a staple of the season, my visit to a Sunday morning rehearsal of Real Rad Red Riding Hood at Adam Scott Collegiate Vocational Institute was my first with the theatre company.
For this production, Em and his team have amassed a huge cast of nearly 50 performers ranging from the age of four to 77, with the majority of them being under the age of 10.
Advertisement - content continues below
Yet, despite the young age of the performers, I was impressed by the group’s focus, organization, and excitement. The kids were engaged in the rehearsal and, most of all, learning real lessons about performing on stage.
Taking the helm as Arbor’s new creative director in May of this year, this is Em’s first production at the head of Arbor — which has come with a lot of new challenges for him.
“Arbor Theatre was looking for a new creative director who had a lot of directing experience and someone who is established in the theatre realm,” Em explains. “I was one of a number of people who were contacted, and part of it was that I had the ability to write. Typically I work with adult, and very small casts. For this show, there are 50 bodies on stage and most of them are children.”
“So that’s been a big learning curve for me, but I think it’s a great fit. I enjoy working with the team and the kids are amazing.”
Writer and director Em Glasspool (left, gesturing) speaks to cast members of Arbor Theatre’s original production “Real Rad Red Riding Hood” during a rehearsal in early December at Adam Scott Collegiate Vocational Institute. There will be a public performance of the play on December 12, 2019 at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
Working alongside Em to create the new face of Arbor Theatre is long-time general manager and producer Beverly Breeden, stage manager Cheri Patrick, costume designer Melanie McCall, and choreographer Dreda Blow. They are joined by long-time set designer John Fewings and Em’s song-writing partner Curtis Driedger. With the exception of Beverly and John, this marks a brand new team of people taking Arbor into new territory.
“It’s been a great revitalization,” Em says. “Sometimes new ideas and new people are what a company needs. I’m honoured and excited to be brought in, and I think there is a real desire and thirst for young people in the arts. More can be done to teach and train and engage with the kids, and not just put them on stage.”
With over 20 years of holiday shows under the company’s belt, Arbor has covered most of the classic stories and fairy tales through the years. So when it was suggested that this year’s show be an adaption of Little Red Riding Hood, Em had his work cut out for him in creating something relevant for his first show.
Advertisement - content continues below
“The company said they wanted to do Red Riding Hood and I thought ‘Oh dear, I don’t know about that story,'” Em recalls. “There are some problematic things with that story in today’s world. My goal was to modernize it. It’s contemporary, and there are very strong female characters in it. The mother, the grandmother, and Red are all very strong and prominent.”
“I used the story to talk about preserving nature, and our role as humans in doing that. It’s about interacting with animals in the woods, so our characters are trees and flowers and wolf cubs and other animals. It’s also about relationships. The trees are played by teenagers who are Red’s counterparts, and we talk about bullying.”
“I think people will be surprised with the show I’ve created. There are many elements to it, including music, and it’ll be a tiny bit more political — if we can do that in children’s theatre. My social justice side has leaked into the work.”
Writer and director Em Glasspool with Bruce Levia and Bob Forsey, who play the Sun and the Moon in Arbor Theatre’s original production “Real Rad Red Riding Hood”, during a rehearsal in early December at Adam Scott Collegiate Vocational Institute. There will be a public performance of the play on December 12, 2019 at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
Sitting in on the second act during the rehearsal, I noticed the themes and lessons learned are plenty and span a great range. The show looks at respecting the environment and wildlife, bullying, toxic masculinity, non-violence, and even a thinly veiled line about consent. Furthermore, the show has both indigenous and LGBTQ+ representation.
However, while all of these themes are within the show, they are not presented in a preachy way that bogs down the show, nor do they take away from the fast and fun script.
“I’d say that it has a lot of deep messages,” says 13-year-old Max Hoen, who co-stars as the show’s narrator and Red’s friend Tree. “There are layers to it. Most of the time it’s a comedy, but sometimes it’s funny and sometimes it’s sad.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Real Rad Red Riding Hood stars 12-year-old Eloise Harvey as Red, a strong-willed and rebellious teenager who, despite her mother’s orders, goes into the woods to visit her grandmother. There she meets a lonely wisecracking tree (Max Hoen), who becomes her companion through the forest.
Along the way Red also encounters the Big Bad Wolf (Aedan Shaughnessy), who’s trying to raise his pack of cubs to be big and tough like him, although his oldest son Basher (Nathan Bertucci) just wants to be friendly.
One of the most important things that Em wanted to do when developing the characters was to make Red stronger and more independent — not the traditional lost little girl in the woods being victimized by the big bad wolf.
Max Hoehn and Eloise Harvey, who star as Tree and Red in Arbor Theatre’s original production “Real Rad Red Riding Hood”, during a rehearsal in early December at Adam Scott Collegiate Vocational Institute. There will be a public performance of the play on December 12, 2019 at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
“In this show Red is a teenager and rebellious,” Eloise explains. “Her mother tells her not to go through the woods, and then she meets a forester who gives her all kinds of rules. But my character does what she wants to anyway, and she gets in all sorts of adventures.”
As is tradition with the Arbor holiday show, adult performers from the community take part in the show and, once again, the majority of the adult performers are new to Arbor this year. Bringing their knowledge as mentors to the young performers, and adding their own colourful personalities to the roles they play, are Naomi DuVall as an uptight forest ranger, Bruce Levia and Bob Forsey as the sun and the moon, David Batemann as Pansy of the forest, Rebecca Desjardins as Red’s mom, Aeden Shaughanessy as the (not so) Big Bad Wolf, and Caitlin O’Connor as Red’s grandmother.
I was delighted but curious to see award-winning performer and playwright David Bateman among the adult performers listed for the show.
Advertisement - content continues below
“People who know me know I work with David, and his shows aren’t the kind you bring children to,” Em admits. “But it’s wonderful to cross over and have David work with kids. David is one of the most fun characters. He’s so funny and a wonderful.”
Em also brings award-winning indigenous artist Nimkii Osawamick to the show in the role of Grandfather Wolf.
“Nimkii is a champion pow wow dancer, and he wins tons of awards for his work,” Em says. “As Grandfather Wolf, he will be dancing as well. He has his own company called DNA Stage and their mandate is to go to schools and teach kids drumming, language, storytelling, singing, and traditional indigenous arts. He has a really interesting take in working with kids and it’s great having him on board.”
Young members of the cast who portray flowers and dancers in Arbor Theatre’s original production “Real Rad Red Riding Hood”, during a rehearsal in early December at Adam Scott Collegiate Vocational Institute. There will be a public performance of the play on December 12, 2019 at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
What impressed me the most about the time I spent with the people at Arbor Theatre was how they weren’t just running their performers through the rehearsal. They were taking the time to teach theatre techniques and performance. They talked to the group about preparation and motivation, and were instilling actual lessons in them instead of just leading them on the stage to be adorable living props.
“A huge goal of mine is that rehearsals are a learning opportunity,” Em says. “We do a ton more than just tell the kids ‘Go here, say this line, and put this hat on.’ We’re really looking on the basics of acting, techniques ,and things the kids can take away with them so they can continue to work on as they continue in theatre.”
The lessons are obviously working. When talking to Ella Swit, a passionate young lady who plays a wolf cub in the show, she eloquently expressed to me her love for the theatre and for being on the stage.
“I just get to go into my own little world.,” Ella says. “In each play, you get put on costumes and make up and become someone you’re not — and that’s awesome.”
With a new creative team and a new direction in storytelling, Real Rad Red Riding Hood is an exhilarating rebirth for Arbor Theatre, and a welcome return to this favourite holiday tradition.
Real Rad Red Riding Hood will be performed for the public at 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 12th at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough). Tickets are $18 adults ($15 students/seniors) plus fees, available in person at the Showplace box office, by phone at 705-742-7469, and online.
School Performances of Real Rad Red Riding Hood
There are also school performances of Real Rad Red Riding Hood taking place at Showplace Performance Centre at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Monday, December 9th, Tuesday, December 10th, and Thursday, December 12th.
The cost is $12 per student, with free admission for teachers and supervisors with every eight students booked. Discussion periods will take place at the end of each school performance to give students a chance to ask questions of the cast and crew, and to encourage their interest in theatre.
To book your class or school into one of the performances — or if you are a member of the public who wishes to attend a school performance — call 705-295-4248 or email thearbortheatre@gmail.com.
The new interchange between Highway 407 and Highway 35/115 will be open to drivers beginning December 9, 2019, ahead of schedule. (Photo: Blackbird Infrastructure Group)
The Ontario government has announced the final stretch of Highway 407 — connecting the 407 to Highway 35/115 — and Highway 418 will be open to drivers beginning Monday, December 9th.
The Highway 7 East project, a toll road owned by the Ontario government, was originally scheduled to be completed in 2020.
“I’m pleased to announce that the last phase will open ahead of schedule,” says Vijay Thanigasalam, parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Transportation. “The completion of the Highway 407 East project will connect communities and greatly improve our transportation network in this region,”
The extension will add 14.2 kilometres to Highway 407, and the new Highway 418 (10 kilometres). which provides another north-south connection from Highway 407 to Highway 401.
“Connecting Highway 407 to Highway 35/115 will create a vital link between Peterborough and the Greater Toronto Area,” says Dave Smith, MPP for Peterborough-Kawartha. “The extension of this highway will help attract jobs and economic growth to this region.”
The new stretch of Highway 407 and new Highway 418 is fully owned and operated by the Province of Ontario.
Motorists will only receive one invoice for the use of Highway 407, 412, 418, and/or 407 ETR. This includes transponder leases, monthly account charges, and video toll charges.
Tokyo rockabilly rockers Johnny Pandora, led by "Johnny" Daigo Yamashita, is performing at The Red Dog in downtown Peterborough on Friday, December 6th, with openers The Lohrwoods. (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, December 5 to Wednesday, December 11.
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, December 12 7:30-11:30pm - Rob Phillips Trio w/ Marsala Lukianchuk
Friday, December 13 5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Brother Sweet Brother
Saturday, December 14 5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Jackets
Sunday, December 15 3-6pm - Jacques Russell Trio ; 6:30-9:30pm - Mark Beatty
Boiling Over's Coffee Vault
148 Kent St. W., Lindsay
(705) 878-8884
Friday, December 6
7-9pm - Gerald Van Halteren
Coming Soon
Friday, December 13 7-9pm - Darren Bailey
Canoe & Paddle
18 Bridge St., Lakefield
(705) 651-1111
Saturdays
8pm - Live music
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)
Advertisement - content continues below
Coach & Horses Pub
16 York St. S., Lindsay
(705) 328-0006
Thursdays
10pm - Open Mic
Fridays
9:30pm - Karaoke Night
Wednesdays
7-11pm - Live music
The Cow & Sow Eatery
38 Colborne St., Fenelon Falls
(705) 887-5111
Coming Soon
Thursday, December 12 8pm - Karaoke
Tuesday, December 31 6pm - New Year's Eve Party ft U Jimmy ($10)
Dominion Hotel
113 Main St., Minden
(705) 286-6954
Friday, December 6
8:30pm - Open mic w/ John Dawson
Saturday, December 7
7pm - Johnny Cox and The Magnetic Line
Coming Soon
Saturday, December 14 7:30pm - Hellfire Hal and the Hot Tub Hussies
Dr. J's BBQ & Brews
282 Aylmer St., Peterborough
(705) 874-5717
Coming Soon
Saturday, December 21 1:30-5pm - PMBA Deluxe Blues Jam hosted by Bywater Call (donations welcome, all proceeds to musicians in need)
Fiddler's Green Pub & Grub
34 Lindsay St. St., Lindsay
(705) 878-8440
Saturday, December 7
9pm - Wayside Blues
Sunday, December 8
1-5pm - Bill Dickson
Coming Soon
Saturday, December 14 9pm - U Jimmy
Ganarascals Restaurant
53 Walton St., Port Hope
905-885-1888
Coming Soon
Saturday, December 21 6-8pm - Cairdeas (Saskia Tomkins, Steáfán Hannigan, and Marsala Lukianchuk) ($20, with $5 going to Sounds of the Next Generation)
Tuesday, December 31 5-9pm - New Year's Eve with Hailiah & Friends ($10)
Ganaraska Hotel
30 Ontario St., Port Hope
(905) 885-9254
Friday, December 6
8pm - A Very Bon Jovi Christmas with Bon Jovi Forever ($20)
Saturday, December 7
2pm & 10pm - Baz Little Rock Band
Coming Soon
Saturday, December 14 2pm & 10pm - Tamin Thunder
Sunday, December 15 2-6pm - Country Christmas ft Ginny McIllmoyle, John Noonan, Larry Adams, Stephen Francis, Darrin Johnson, Marty Hepburn, Mike and Sigrid McGiverin, ( more
The Garnet
231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-0107
Thursday, December 5
10pm - West End Riverboat Band ($10 or PWYC)
Friday, December 6
9pm - The Salt Cellars
Saturday, December 7
6-8pm - Echotones (songs of John Prine and more)
Sunday, December 8
7pm - Danny Gravelle
Monday, December 9
8pm - Precarious Festival presents Keyboards Family Christmas (live-typewriting poetry show) ft Justin Million (free, donations accepted)
Tuesday, December 10
8pm - Classic 45s
Coming Soon
Thursday, December 12 9pm - Out By Lucy w/ guests
Friday, December 13 9pm - The Kents Pop-Up Show
Sunday, December 15 8pm - Looking for Heather w/ guests
Advertisement - content continues below
Golden Wheel Restaurant
6725 Highway 7, Peterborough
(705) 749-6838
Saturday, December 7
8pm - Evan Farrell Band ($10)
Coming Soon
Saturday, December 14 8pm - Classic Collective
Gordon Best Theatre
216 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 876-8884
Coming Soon
Friday, December 13 9pm - Oberge w/ Peachykine ($10 at door or PWYC)
Saturday, December 14 7:30-11pm - Odd Man Rush charity Christmas show in support of The Warming Room
Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for the southern portion of Peterborough County, including Lakefield and Peterborough, and the southern portion of Kawartha Lakes, including Lindsay, as well as Northumberland County.
Snow is expected to develop overnight on Thursday (December 5).
Snow will continue into Friday morning, with total snowfall amounts of 5 to 10 cm likely by the middle of the day on Friday.
The morning commute may be impacted due to low visibility in heavy snow at times and snow accumulating on untreated surfaces.
Conditions are expected to improve Friday afternoon.
4th Line Theatre's "The Fool of Cavan: A Christmas Caper" outdoor holiday show in Millbrook channels Nancy Drew and Scooby Doo as a teen detective Joanie Sweetnam (Erin Humphry) and her friends Evie (Sarah Flanigan), Billy (Tristan Peirce), and Eddie (Ryan Tobin) follow the clues to discover the identity of the mysterious Fool of Cavan. (Photo: Wayne Eardley / Brookside Studio)
There are only a handful of tickets left if you want to see 4th Line Theatre’s new Christmas show The Fool of Cavan: A Christmas Caper.
Written by Lindy Finlan and directed by 4th Line’s managing artistic director Kim Blackwell, The Fool of Cavan is 4th Line’s newest outdoor holiday show, which starts at St. Thomas Anglican Church and brings the story out into the streets of Millbrook using the village as the story’s backdrop.
Filled with mystery, music, fun, and just a bit of old world magic, The Fool of Cavan is a perfect holiday outing for the entire family.
Advertisement - content continues below
Set in 1964, The Fool of Cavan opens with progressive Reverend Peter Green (Mark Hiscox) and his uptight sister Euna Wyndham (Megan Murphy) finding themselves at odds over a local rock band, The Needlers, performing at the church’s Christmas pageant. However, bigger issues than if Millbrook is ready for rock n’ roll arise when strange happenings begin at the church.
Strange ghostly sounds have been heard, and the costumes for the children’s Christmas play suddenly go missing. When Euna blames the rock group — made up of teen detective Joanie Sweetnam (Erin Humphry) and her friends Evie (Sarah Flanigan), Billy (Tristan Peirce), and Eddie (Ryan Tobin) — the kids reveal that their instruments have gone missing too.
When accusations and insinuations fly, the members of the church are visited by a mysterious figure dressed up as a fox, leading the characters outside where they witness a group of mysterious costumed revellers dancing through the streets. Out to clear their names and find their instruments before the Christmas concert, Joanie and her gang take on the case and follow the clues to discover the identity of The Fool of Cavan.
The true star of the “The Fool of Cavan: A Christmas Caper” is the village of Millbrook itself. Staging the play in scenic neighborhoods, local landmarks and well-scouted locations, the walking tour through the village is beautiful, and instills a festive feeling in the crowd. (Photo: Wayne Eardley / Brookside Studio)
The second holiday show for 4th Line Theatre, The Fool of Cavan is a welcome follow up to last year’s successful show The Other. However, while The Other was filled with heavy dramatic overtones, The Fool of Cavan goes in an entirely different direction. The show is pure nostalgic enjoyment, unapologetically inspired by Nancy Drew mixed with Scooby Doo.
When watching The Fool of Cavan, I often felt like I was watching an animated holiday special from days of Christmas past, but acted out live in front of me. The show has a strange rhythm to it, where the actors are larger than life and slightly over the top, which creates the illusion of cartoon fun.
The character of girl detective Joanie Sweetnam, played by Erin Humphry, is a fun and inspired concept that really appeals to me. Growing up, I was a huge fan of girl detective fiction and still have my Nancy Drew, Trixie Belden, and Dana Girl Mystery books in my bookcases. So 4th Line Theatre resurrecting the genre in a live-action holiday play was a true treat for me, and will appeal to adults who grew up on this brand of storytelling, as well as the new generation of kids who will fall head first into the mystery as it unfolds.
Advertisement - content continues below
The characters in the show are fairly one dimensional, but this allows the audience to get to know the players quickly without being bogged down in character and back story so that the journey through Millbrook can take centre stage. All characters in the show have their own distinct character traits. Joanie is spunky and clever, Reverend Greene is sensible, Eunice is a busy body, Eddie is a fraidy cat, Evie is a rebel, and Billy is a goofball.
There’s also a romantic subplot involving Joanie’s mother Dolly (Laurel Paluck) and church elder Dunnie (JD Nicholsen), as well as fun character parts by Matt Gilbert as Eunice’s alcoholic husband Willy and Katrina McGahon as Eddie’s cooler sister Speedy.
The force that drives the audience through the streets are the mysterious figures dancing through Millbrook. Garbed in costumes by Madison Costello and masks designed by Brad Brackenridge, the figures have a magical old-world quality to them, harkening back to pagan rituals and old European traditions.
Teen detective Joanie Sweetnam (Erin Humphry) and her friends, part of a local rock band called The Needlers, get involved in the mystery of “The Fool of Cavan” when their instruments go missing. (Photo: Wayne Eardley / Brookside Studio)
Ravens, foxes, stags and a plague doctor mingle with other mystical beasts, led by the so-called “Fool of Cavan” who bears resemblance to a yeti or a wendigo. Eerie and strange, with a sense of wonder and whimsy, these figures add atmosphere and magic to the show.
But, once again, the true star of the show is the village of Millbrook itself. Staging the play in scenic neighbourhoods, local landmarks and well-scouted locations, the walking tour through the village is beautiful, and instills a festive feeling in the crowd. Furthermore, the use of St. Thomas’ Anglican Church as the home base for the show — which ends in an old-fashioned Christmas concert all its own — is a brilliant touch that brings up even more nostalgic memories of Christmas pageants gone by.
There is a beautiful Canadian country feel to the entire experience, which reminds the audience that the holiday season isn’t about office parties, busy malls, and credit card debt. It’s about community, friends, music, and a little bit of holiday magic.
“The Fool of Cavan: A Christmas Caper” begins at St. Thomas’ Anglican Church, proceeds through the streets of Millbrook, and then ends at the church for an old-fashioned Christmas concert. (Photo: Wayne Eardley / Brookside Studio)
4th Line Theatre’s holiday productions are a wondrous and welcomed addition to the company’s yearly programming. The walk through Millbrook is truly magical, and the festive spirit runs high. The Fool of Cavan is a wonderful addition into what hopefully will be a continuing holiday tradition for local audiences.
Note that the outside portion of the performance runs for 40 minutes, and audiences will travel snow covered streets and paths, so dress for the elements and be prepared for the physical nature of the show.
The Fool of Cavan: A Christmas Caper runs for seven more performances (December 6th, 7th, and 10th to 14th), but all performances are now sold out except for the Wednesday, December 11th one. The show begins at St. Thomas Anglican Church (16 Centre St., Millbrook) at 7 p.m., but audience members are asked to be gathered by 6:30 p.m..
Advance tickets can be purchased by phone at 705-932-4445, online at www.4thlinetheatre.ca, at 4th Line Theatre’s box office in Millbrook at 4 Tupper Street and in Peterborough at the Peterborough Museum and Archives at 300 Hunter Street East (atop Armor Hill).
A Peterborough man and woman are in police custody following a series of recent break-and-enters and thefts in the Village of Lakefield and City of Peterborough.
As a result of an investigation by the Peterborough Police Service’s street crime unit, Scott Rossiter, 30, and Kaitleen Jorgensen, 24, both of Parkhill Road in Peterborough, have been arrested and charged with multiple counts of break and enter, mischief, and theft.
Rossiter is charged with seven counts of break and enter, three counts of mischief, and two counts of theft. Jorgensen is charged with one count of break and enter, two counts of mischief, and two counts of theft.
According to police media releases, the following break-and-enters were reported over the past two weeks:
On Sunday, November 24th at around 4:15 a.m., a male and female entered a laundromat on Lansdowne Street West in Peterborough and attempted to break into several washing machine change boxes but were unsuccessful. They then gained entry into a locked storage room and stole multiple cleaning supplies.
On Friday, November 29th between 4:25 a.m. and 4:50 a.m. on November 29th, one or more persons attempted to break into a laundromat located in a commercial plaza in the Village of Lakefield. During the same time period, the person(s) broke into a pet supply shop located in the same commercial plaza. Once inside the store, the person(s) opened the cash register and stole an amount of cash, along with a charity donation box and a bag of pet food.
On Saturday, November 30th at around 4:20 a.m., an unknown person attempted to break into a Queen Street convenience store located in Lakefield. Police attended the store for an alarm call and investigated. There was no entry gained and it appears nothing was stolen.
On Saturday, November 30th at around 6 a.m., a male and female entered the same Lansdowne Street West laundromat in Peterborough that was robbed the previous weekend and stole a large amount of change from multiple change boxes and soap dispenser change boxes.
Sometime between 10 p.m. on Monday, December 2nd and 8 a.m. on Tuesday, December 3rd, one or more persons broke into a restaurant and a bakery and cafe located in the Village of Lakefield. The two businesses are attached in the same complex. Once inside the businesses the thieves stole a charity donation box, a tip cup, and cash from the cash register.
While police have not identified the businesses, the Canoe & Paddle pub and Stuff’d ice cream, bakery, and cafe — both located at 18 Bridge Street in Lakefield — both posted on their Facebook pages on Tuesday, December 3rd that they had been robbed.
?????????? Sad to announce Canoe & Paddle and Stuff'd were broken into last night and taken for cash in an unfortunate cash…
The GreenUP Store in downtown Peterborough has unique environmentally friendly and locally made gifts and stocking stuffers for any budget. When you choose local by shopping at GreenUP, you are supporting the environment both by reducing waste and by directly supporting the environmental work of the non-profit charity. You can also purchase gift certificates and, when you combine a donation to GreenUP with the purchase of a gift certificate, GreenUP will send you the gift certificate in a personalized donation holiday card that you can gift to friends or family. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Are you looking for some items to help you polish off your holiday gift giving?
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Kristen LaRocque, GreenUP Store and Resource Centre Coordinator.
The GreenUP Store has you covered, with unique environmentally friendly gifts and stocking stuffers ranging from $1.50 to $25 and more. The store, located at 378 Aylmer Street North in downtown Peterborough (just north of the Greyhound depot), carries a curated selection of sustainable products, as well as handcrafted goods from over 40 local makers.
Your stockings can hold all the best gifts — including what’s best for the planet!
Check out a few ideas below for gifts under $5, $10, and $25. You can also give GreenUP gift certificates or make a donation to GreenUP.
Felted acorn decorations from Ecomum. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Ecomum felted acorns are made locally by Ecomum, Jeanine Crow, and her daughter. The two go out and collect the acorn tops in the fall and attach them onto felted balls of wool to create the sweetest little tree ornaments!
Ecomum also makes a variety of textiles, including baby bibs, blankets, and napkins with fun and contemporary prints.
2. Locally made beeswax candles
Locally made beeswax candles from This Old Flame. (Photo: This Old Flame)
This Old Flame makes 100 per cent beeswax candles that are handcrafted in Peterborough.
The GreenUP Store carries various shapes and sizes, starting at just $1.50 for tealights!
These lovely hand-poured and hand-dipped candles are made from beeswax from Ontario beekeepers with no scents or dyes added.
3. Ontario maple syrup
Ontario maple syrup from Golden Treasures. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
What is more Canadian (and delicious) than a bottle of maple syrup?
Golden Treasures maple syrup is from Trout Creek, Ontario and has been in operation since 1994, growing over the years to over 16,000 taps over 300 acres of maple bush in the heart of Northern Ontario.
The GreenUP Store carries large litre-sized portions right down to teeny tiny stocking-sized portions in maple-leaf shaped glass bottles.
Under $10
4. Locally made natural soap
Locally made natural soap from Sherrie LaMasurier of Simply Natural Canada. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
We have natural soap for all your stockings. The GreenUP Store carries many handmade soaps made locally by master soap-makers, Sherrie LaMasurier of Simply Natural Canada, Katie Legere of Free2Be Wellness, and SarahAnn of Charcoal & Rose Petals.
Their soaps feature sustainable and locally sourced ingredients and they have minimal or recyclable packaging.
The GreenUP Store also carries many other personal care products such as face serums, shaving soap, and natural deodorants.
5. Reusable produce and snack bags
Canadian-made reusable snack bags from Colibri. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Looking for something to help reduce reliance on single-use plastics? Flimsy single-use plastic bags take one second to make, are used for 20 to 30 minutes, and then take over 600 years to decompose!
Credo Bags of Montreal makes cotton-mesh produce bags that can be used as an alternative to the plastic ones offered at the grocery store.
Colibri Snack Bags are another great option: they are reusable fabric bags with a zipper that can hold anything from grapes to makeup. Their interior nylon lining is water impermeable, which means that you can wipe out crumbs easily or toss it in the washing machine when it needs a deeper clean. There are so many fun and funky fabrics to choose from and they are, quite simply, universally useful.
Made in Canada and available in a variety of sizes and prints, these bags make lunchtime fun and will reduce the amount of plastic in your life. They’re also great for holding toiletries or storage while travelling, and they tuck nicely into any stocking.
6. Bamboo toothbrushes
Bamboo toothbrushes from Brush with Bamboo. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Everyone on your gift-giving list likely brushes their teeth, at least some of the time.
Plastic toothbrushes end up in the landfill at the end of their life cycle, whereas the bamboo toothbrushes from Brush with Bamboo are alternatives that can be composted at the end of their life. Simply snap off the bristled head and toss it in the garbage.
This bamboo toothbrush comes in a compostable cardboard box with vegetable dye printing, so it can safely go into your compost heap.
7. Wool dryer balls
Canadian-made wool dryer balls Moss Creek Wool Works. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Looking for something cute and cuddly that’s as soft as a lamb that can replace single-use dryer sheets? Look no further than Canadian-made dryer balls from Moss Creek Wool Works, made of 100 per cent merino wool.
Available at the GreenUP Store in white, brown, and grey, the wool balls bounce around in your dryer and keep items from clumping together, which reduces dryer time and static.
We recommend using three or more dryer balls — and leaving them in the dryer between loads to avoid them being used as cat toys!
8. Local honey
Local honey from OtonaBEE Apiary. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Naturally sweet OtonaBEE Apiary honey is the perfect treat for a loved one.
The GreenUP Store carries liquid and creamed clover and buckwheat honey in various sized jars to fit any stocking size.
OtonaBEE honey is 100 per cent pure, just as the bees make it!
Under $25
9. Reusable utensils
Reusable wooden utensils from To-Go Ware. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
The To-Go Ware reusable bamboo utensils set includes a sturdy bamboo fork, knife, spoon, and chopsticks — all neatly held together in a convenient pouch made from recycled water bottles.
This stocking stuffer or gift garnish is an attractive and sustainable alternative to single-use plastic cutlery.
10. Locally made alpaca wool insoles and socks
Locally made alpaca wool insoles from Twoloom Alpacas. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Warm cozy gifts are the best at this chilly time of year. Twoloom Alpacas insoles are made from 100 per cent alpaca wool and are a must-have for winter in Ontario! They are a great addition to any boot for warm feet all season long.
Twoloom Alpacas is a 12-acre farm in the beautiful rolling hills of Northumberland County, so you’ll also be supporting a local farmer when you purchase their products.
The GreenUP Store also carries their alpaca wool socks in a variety of colours and sizes.
11. Locally made reusable wipes
Locally made reusable wipes from Cheeks Ahoy Unpaper Towels. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Cheeks Ahoy Unpaper Towels are handmade in Peterborough by Leah Black. When Leah had her first child, she she began making her own reusable flannel wipes to replace the standard disposable ones.
Now Leah has two growing children, and she makes a range of reusable textiles. These include makeup removing pads, napkins, and face cloths. All Cheeks Ahoy products can be easily laundered and reused again and again. To make her wipes, Leah uses biodegradable materials like bamboo and cotton flannel.
At the GreenUP Store, we are using (and reusing) a set of single-ply Unpaper Towels for lint-free dusting and wiping up spills at our refill station. Unpaper Towels are also great for wiping hands and faces as well as washing and drying dishes.
A set of eight Unpaper Towels can easily replace several single-use items, including paper napkins, paper towels, and even facial tissue. Choosing to use washable and reusable textiles is a great way to reduce household waste and kick the single-use habit.
12. Reusable food bags
Reusable food bags from Stasher. (Photo: Stasher)
If your family uses resealable plastic sandwich bags, then reusable silicone Stasher bags are an excellent alternative.
They are airtight, dishwasher friendly, and plastic free. Like their single-use counterpart, Stasher bags are easy to use, whether you’re packing lunchtime snacks or freezing leftovers. Stasher is non-toxic and temperature-resistant, so you can safely use a Stasher to cook and reheat food in the microwave, stove top, or oven.
Stasher is a B Corporation, which means it is committed to high standards of social and environmental transparency, accountability, and performance. Although based in California, Stasher products are made responsibly in China with accountable and ethical manufacturing practices. The company is charitable and socially minded, having pledged to donate one per cent of its annual profits to environmental charities.
13. Reusable straws
Stainless steel straws are available in a variety of colours. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Reusable straws are one of the best-selling items at the GreenUP Store. They have grown in popularity as the #RefuseTheStraw movement has continued to gain momentum.
The GreenUP Store carries a variety of sizes of straws and their associated cleaning brushes. This holiday season, we have brought in new colours including bronze, iridescent blue, and rose gold.
Brightly coloured reusable straws can make an excellent garnish on your gifts this year, and are a great replacement for a single-use plastic bow.
Note: You can also purchase a single package-free stainless steel straw, sold all by itself without any packaging, for under $5 (pair it with a straw-cleaning brush for $2).
14. Wooden ornaments
Ontario-made wooden ornaments from Light & Paper. (Photo courtesy of Light & Paper)
Wooden ornaments are not only traditional, but also better for the environment than plastic.
This is especially true when the ornaments are made from reclaimed wood like those made by members of The Brain Injury Association Peterborough Region, a local agency that provides a range of support services to individuals living with an acquired brain injury.
They strive to engage members in meaningful activities and promote participation in our community as a way of enhancing overall well-being and quality of life. Decorate your home beautifully this holiday season, with handmade items that also give back to the community.
The GreenUP Store also carries wooden ornaments made by Light & Paper. Ali Harrison is the owner and designer of this small Toronto-based company. She begins with an intricate paper cutting, which she carves by hand with an X-Acto knife. Her original designs are then scanned and converted to be laser cut into thin sheets of wood to create coasters, wall art, and Christmas tree ornaments.
15. Woodland finger puppets
Woodland finger puppets. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Do you have a little nature lover on your list this year?
The GreenUP Store carries a number of woodland finger puppets that are available in a variety of local species including raccoon, skunk, chipmunk, and turtle.
GreenUP gift certificates
With so much good stuff to choose from, you may want to give GreenUP gift certificates, available in $10, $25, and $50 denominations in person at the GreenUP Store or online through our website.
And make sure you enter GreenUP’s gift certificate contest and you could win one of seven $25 gift certificates to enjoy yourself (contest closes on January 8th).
GreenUP gift certificates are available in $10, $25, and $50 denominations. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Add a donation to your gift and support Ecology Park
You also have the option to support our Ecology Park fundraising campaign by adding a donation to your gift (you’ll receive a charitable tax receipt for your contribution).
When you combine a donation to GreenUP with the purchase of a gift certificate, GreenUP will send you the gift certificate in a personalized donation holiday card that you can gift to friends or family.
With the funds raised this holiday season, we plan to install features that will help make Ecology Park accessible to all visitors, and you’ll also ensure that our renowned environmental programs will continue for years to come.
VIDEO: Choose local at the GreenUP Store and support local makers and the environment
Thank you for supporting GreenUP! GreenUP is a non-profit registered charity. When you shop at the GreenUP Store you are directly supporting GreenUP, and all proceeds support environmental programs in the Peterborough area — that’s a gift that gives twice!
The GreenUP Store is located at 378 Aylmer St. in downtown Peterborough. Check out greenup.on.ca for holiday hours, gift ideas, and more.
This story has been created in partnership with GreenUP.
Canadian country-rock legends Blue Rodeo (Bazil Donovan, Colin Cripps, Greg Keelor, Jim Cuddy, Glenn Milchem, and Mike Boguski) return to the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Friday, December 27th, with Bailieboro's own Jimmy Bowskill joining the band. (Photo: Dustin Rabin)
Happy holiday season, everyone! Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, this is a great time of year to spend some quality time with family, friends, and loved ones.
This can be a time of extremes, with bustling days making way for cozy nights. However, it’s also a fantastic time to take in some live music.
There is a little something for everyone in Peterborough and the Kawarthas this month! Here are just a few of the shows.
Heather Rankin at the Market Hall in Peterborough on December 5
On Thursday, December 5th, there’ll be a ton of Christmas spirit in the room when Nova Scotia’s Heather Rankin brings her “Picture Perfect Christmas” show to Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146).
Rankin, part of the acclaimed family band The Rankin Family, performs a mix of seasonal tunes and original songs as well. “Picture Perfect” is the name of a tune from Rankin’s 2018 Christmas album Imagine.
Full of ‘rollicking East Coast charm’, the show begins at 8 p.m. and tickets are $35 for general admission and $40 for an assigned cabaret table seat. You can purchase tickets the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org.
VIDEO: “Picture Perfect” – Heather Rankin
The West End Riverboat Band at the Garnet in Peterborough on December 5
There will be a delta speakeasy feel at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) on Thursday, December 5th when The West End Riverboat Band takes the stage at 10 p.m.
The trio — John Williams (clarinet, harmonica, vocals), Ben Lee (tenor banjo, guitar, vocals), and Chris Adriaanse (stand-up bass) — performs old folk jazz and blues in a stompin’ New Orleans style.
It’s going to be a perfect night to enjoy some drinks and feel the music. Tickets are $10 (or pay what you can) at the door.
VIDEO: “Fidgety Feet” – The West End Riverboard Band
In From The Cold Christmas concert at the Market Hall in Peterborough on December 6 and 7
In From the Cold, one of Peterborough’s most-beloved musical holiday traditions, returns for its 20th year to Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) on Friday, December 6th and Saturday, December 7th.
A fundraiser for YES Shelter for Youth and Families, the annual Christmas concert features Celtic and contemporary carols and seasonal songs. Musicians include Carried Away (John Hoffman, Susan Newman, and Rob Fortin), The Convivio Chorus, Enrique “Roy” Claveer (aka Curtis Driedger), fingerstyle guitarist Michael Ketemer, and Celtic harpist Tanah Haney.
Get into the Christmas spirit by heading to Market Hall for one of the two performances. Tickets are $20 for general admission ($15 for students/children). Get them at the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org.
VIDEO: “In From The Cold” by Rodney Fuentes (2016)
Advertisement - content continues below
Sultans of String at Victoria Hall in Cobourg on December 8
Folks in the Cobourg and Port Hope area can also get into the spirit of the holidays when Sultans of String brings their “Christmas Caravan” show to The Concert Hall at Victoria Hall (55 King St. W., Cobourg, 1-855-372-2210) on Sunday, December 8th at 3 p.m.
The 2015 Juno award winners serve up a hot eclectic mix of music ranging from fiery fiddle tunes to Turkish-inspired songs to Caribbean sleigh ride songs — and even Django Reinhardt-inspired Gypsy jazz.
Tickets are $39 plus fees and you can get them online at tickets.cobourg.ca.
VIDEO: Christmas Caravan – Sultans of String
The Weber Brothers at the Red Dog in Peterborough on December 14
Peterborough residents and long-time adopted favourites The Weber Brothers present their Weber Brothers Christmas concert at The Historic Red Dog Tavern (189 Hunter St. W, Peterborough, 705-750-1710) on Saturday, December 14th.
Sam and Ryan Weber first moved to the area from Maryland to perform with Ronnie Hawkins around 2000, and have since toured Canada and beyond countless times. This show will be full of their high-octane energy and musicianship and is sure to include some special guests.
Tickets will be available at the door and the shows begins at 8 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will be going to the Brock Mission.
P.S. There will be a screening of The Weber Brothers’ holiday film When Christmas Falls On Peterborough at the Galaxy Cinemas in downtown Peterborough at 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 11th. Tickets are free and available in advance at the theatre box office, but a donation to the Brock Mission on the evening of the screening would be appreciated.
“When Christmas Falls On Peterborough” – The Weber Brothers
Advertisement - content continues below
Pays d’en Haut at The Garnet in Peterborough on December 21
Check out some awesome Cajun-inspired tunes on Saturday, December 21st at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) with Peterborough’s own Pays d’en Haut.
The group includes Curtis Driedger, Benj Rowland (Mayhemingways), Matt Watson, Jim Gleason, and Leslie McGrath. They perform classic Cajun tunes that are perfect for dancing on a cold night — which happens to be the first night of winter.
Tickets will be available at the door and the show runs from 8 to 11 p.m. Aiiieee!
VIDEO: “Tit Galop Pour Mamou / Bayou Noir” – Pays d’en Haut
Blue Rodeo with Elliott Brood at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on December 27
Bailieboro’s own Jimmy Bowskill will join Jim Cuddy, Greg Keelor, and the rest of Blue Rodeo on Friday, December 27th when the band returns for the second year in a row to perform at the Peterborough Memorial Centre (151 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough, 705-743-3561).
This will be a killer show full of their best tunes. Who wouldn’t want to sing along with hits like “Hasn’t Hit Me Yet”, “5 Days in May”, “Til I Am Myself Again”, and “Lost Together”?
Opening the show will be “death-grass” band Elliott Brood.
Tickets range from $45 to $89.50 and area available at the Peterborough Memorial Centre or online at tickets.memorialcentre.ca.
VIDEO: “I Can’t Hide This Anymore” – Blue Rodeo
VIDEO: “Lost Together” – Blue Rodeo
Advertisement - content continues below
The Rocket Revue at the Market Hall in Peterborough on December 28
It’s been a couple of years since The Rocket Revue treated Peterborough to their full big-band rhythm and blues, rockabilly, and blues sound.
On Saturday, December 28th at 8 p.m. at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146), the band gets back together for a celebration of 20 years and also as a tribute to former bandmate and friend, the late Buzz Thompson.
There’ll be familiar faces like Bobby Watson, JP Hovercraft, Rob Phillips, Greg Weichel, and more. Musical guests include The Weber Brothers, Jerome Godboo, Bridget Foley, and Jane Archer.
You’ll dance, you’ll sway, and everything will be okay at this super fun show. Tickets are $45 for general admission and $50 for assigned cabaret seats. Get them the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org.
VIDEO: “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder performed by The Rocket Revue
Dub Trinity at The Garnet in Peterborough on December 30
Just before New Year’s Eve, Dub Trinity brings their reggae, ska, and dub stylings to The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) on Tuesday, December 30th.
The band has been a going concern in Peterborough’s music scene for many years now. Let the bass go through you as you enjoy originals, Bob Marley tunes, and many other great selections from the world of reggae.
It’s a perfect way to dance away 2019. Tickets will be $10 at the door and the show will begin around 8 p.m.
Owners Erin Watson and Anna Eidt in front of Watson & Lou at 383 Water Street in downtown Peterborough. Their creative hub helps local artists and makers reach a wider audience, offers a broad range of unique locally made goods, and hosts popular maker workshops. (Supplied photo)
Many people have caught on to the fact that supporting locally owned independent businesses, artists, and craftspeople is a good thing.
This story is one of a series kawarthaNOW is running in partnership with other locally owned independent businesses to encourage people to “choose local first” this holiday season.
We understand that investing our dollars locally whenever we have the choice results in a richer cultural experiences, higher-paying jobs, and better contributions to the local tax base.
Choosing local also nurtures the unique character of our community, and can reduce our impact on the environment.
“Most people have a basic understanding of why supporting small businesses versus Goliaths is beneficial,” explains Anna Eidt, who owns and operates creative hub Watson & Lou in downtown Peterborough along with Erin Watson.
Over 70 per cent of goods available at Watson & Lou are made in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, and many of the raw materials used by local artists and makers, both in the creation of goods and for workshops, are also sourced locally. (Supplied photo)
“But shifting our daily habits to ‘buy less and buy better’ to invest in unique local talents instead of familiar, generic ones takes time and effort,” Anna adds. “We hope, that by demonstrating tangible benefits in our community, we can help people make that shift.”
Anna and Erin are on a mission to provide beautifully curated local gift items and useful workshops, making it more than worth your while to diverge from the normal routine and spend an afternoon in downtown Peterborough. With a wide range of unique contemporary goods (and some demo toys to distract the kids while you shop), they aim to provide valuable keepsakes to please all ages and interests.
Recently celebrating two years in business, Watson & Lou is truly a “choose local” success story. Over 70 per cent of the goods available at Watson & Lou are made in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, and many of the raw materials used by local artists and makers, both in the creation of goods and for workshops, are sourced locally as well.
Top 10 Staff Picks (all made by Peterboroughians)
1. Tall ceramic tumblers by Dorothy Meddows-Taylor
2. Upcycled wool mittens by Keetarella
3. Beeswax candles from The Bee Spot
4. Wooden smartphone amplifiers by Small Woodworks
5. Handwoven tea towels by Messervey Works
6. Faux taxidermy felted animals by Birchwood Fine Art
7. Watercolour animal prints by The Critter Co.
8. Indigo-dyed cross body purses by Modelia
9. Letterpress printed holiday card packs by Jackson Creek Press
10. Travel pouches in every size by Stoney Lake Textiles
Watson & Lou walk the talk, so far facilitating about $200,000 in gross income for local artisans, helping them to continue and — in some cases — significantly expand their creative practice.
“Especially with a for-profit model, we believe there is a moral responsibility to ensure our business truly benefits everyone involved,” Anna says.
Watson & Lou is currently working with more than 50 local suppliers. While their offerings tend towards fun gift items, Erin and Anna say that investing in creative arts is far from a frill.
Not only is the arts and culture sector important to a vibrant local economy, but unique regional art has its own intrinsic value and contributes to cohesive and healthy communities with their own strong identities.
“With the loss of good manufacturing jobs to the whims of the global economy among other challenges, we are serious about boosting the things that make Peterborough a worthy destination and a great place to live,” explains Erin.
“We are forging a friendly, supportive community that our regular customers also get to be a part of. And just like the intrinsic value of arts and culture, this can’t be measured in dollars — it’s priceless.”
Watson & Lou owners Erin Watson and Anna Eidt are passionate about supporting the local creative community and economy, so far facilitating about $200,000 in gross income for local artisans. They are currently working with more than 50 local suppliers. (Supplied photo)
Along with supporting the local economy and creating community, another proven benefit of choosing local is reducing the impact on the environment. For example, locally made and locally sourced items don’t have to travel as far and don’t require distribution warehouses, minimizing transportation-related emissions.
“The very nature of our business means a more gentle ecological footprint,” Erin says. “With the help of our makers, we’re constantly finding ways to lessen that impact. We recognize that none of us are perfect, and that’s okay. Together we can problem solve to find better ways to produce and share the things that sustain us and bring us joy.”
Watson & Lou is located at 383 Water Street in downtown Peterborough. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.
For more information, call 705-775-7568, email hello@watsonandlou.com, or visit www.watsonandlou.com, where you can shop online and also sign up for workshops (the winter/spring workshop schedule will be available as of February 1st). You can also follow Watson & Lou on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Do you own a local independent business? If you’d like to be featured in our “choose local” promotion, contact kawarthaNOW Publisher Jeannine Taylor at 705-742-6404 or jt@kawarthanow.com.
kawarthaNOW.com offers two enews options to help readers stay in the know. Our VIP enews is delivered weekly every Wednesday morning and includes exclusive giveaways, and our news digest is delivered daily every morning. You can subscribe to one or both.
Submit your event for FREE!
Use our event submission form to post your event on our website — for free.
To submit editorial content or ideas, please contact us.
