Congratulations to everyone involved in a fabulously successful Lightfoot Days last weekend.
Opening night with the Lightfoot Band was absolutely superb. What a treat to hear Gord’s band with that quintessential Lightfoot sound, filling the Orillia Opera House yet again. If you closed your eyes, you could imagine you were hearing Gord sing his signature tunes, yet again. Thank you so much to the committee and all the volunteers for your hard work. It is so appreciated!
This Thursday is the opening night of Mariposa Arts Theatre’s (MAT) fall show, Gypsy: A Musical Fable. But what is the musical all about?
Here is MAT’s explanation: “Lauded as one of the greatest American musicals of all time, Gypsy: A Musical Fable tells the story of one fiercely devoted mother's singular destructive ambition to find fame and fortune for herself and her two daughters as they tour through the vaudeville circuit of the 1920's and the ever-evolving demands and desires of show business. Based on the real memoirs of striptease legend Gypsy Rose Lee, Gypsy: A Musical Fable is a fascinating tale of greed, ambition, selfishness, show business, and self-discovery.”
Please note that, due to mature themes this show is recommended for ages 14+. I can assure you, the quality of this show will be top-notch, so do grab your tickets now at www.orilliaoperahouse.ca and enjoy an incredible evening of musical theatre.
Gypsy runs this Thursday to Sunday and next Thursday to Sunday. Evening shows, matinees on Sundays. Thanks to all the volunteers involved in this amazing show.
MAT’s Film Nights continue next Wednesday, Nov. 13 with the film, The Great Escaper. Based on a true story of a 90-year-old British veteran who decides to go to the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings, despite his age and abilities, this looks like a winner. Check out the trailer here, it looks incredibly moving, with fantastic actors Glynda Jackson and Michael Caine. Shows at 4 and 7 p.m.
This Saturday, Green Haven hosts the After Dark Fundraiser, at Orillia Square mall. This fundraiser with a different twist promises Orillia's ultimate '90s-themed late-night arcade experience.
Here’s what you get with your ticket purchase: hosted by local drag sensation Justine D’as, Djing by Joyful Receptions, arcade games and prizes, delicious bites by Eclectic Cafe by Melanie Robinson Catering, drinks and late-night snacks and a Silent Auction. Plus of course the chance to support all that Green Haven does for women and children in our community. Get your tickets here.
Also this Saturday, Orillia Youth Centre hosts yet another fantastic show, this time featuring musicians Danny Michel and Steve Poltz, at St. Paul’s Centre. If you were at the show with these two fine fellows last year, you know it was and will be a phenomenal night of great music and stories from these two legends. Get your tickets here and support the Orillia Youth Centre.
This Thursday, Nov. 7, also at St. Paul’s Centre, enjoy the fine fiddling music of the legendary Scott Woods and his multi-talented band mates. Come experience the best in country music, trick fiddling, award-winning step dancing and more. It will be a night to remember! Get your tickets here.
Don’t forget your Mariposa Folk Festival tickets for 2025 are on sale now, and this is the lowest price they will be. Pick them up for holiday presents or gift them to yourself, here.
Speaking of Mariposa, Mariposa in Concert presents Matt Weidinger’s Van Morrison show on Nov. 23 at the Orillia Opera House. Weidinger is a phenomenal musician, and this show will be an incredible tribute to the legendary Van Morrison. Get your tickets at www.orilliaoperahouse.ca now.
Wednesday, Nov. 27 is the annual Orillia Regional Arts and Heritage Awards, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Creative Nomad Studios in Orillia. This is your chance to celebrate all those in arts and heritage in our region, to check out videos of the 18 nominees in five categories for this year, and to see who will receive the awards. There will be snacks, musical entertainment by Alex Anderson and a chance to mingle as well. Admission is free, but get there early to get a seat!
Live music this weekend, Lyric Dubee Friday night and Andrew Walker Saturday night, at Couchiching Craft Brewery.
Don’t forget to attend the Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cenotaph at the hospital, Monday, Nov. 11. Make sure to arrive before 11 a.m. in order to be ready to observe the moment of silence at 11 a.m. In these days of turmoil and divisiveness, we need to remember the sacrifices that were made for us.
If you have arts news, send it to [email protected] by Tuesday at noon to be included.
