We have confirmed our final two shows! We’re so pleased that the Lyndhurst Legion Hall and the ABC Hall in Bolingbroke will both be welcoming the Devin Cuddy Band. Cuddy is the son of Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy, but he has carved out his own unique sound harkening back to pre-1960 music and inspired by the founders of rock and roll, crooners of country and kings of jazz. Click here to see the updated full schedule.
Devin Cuddy joins many other talented and sought-after international artists on the Festival of the Small Halls line up this year. Earlier in June, we announced the musicians and schedule for our shows, which run from Sept. 15 to Oct. 2. After being so excited to announce the headliners for this year’s Ontario Festival of Small Halls, we’re now thrilled to be nearing completion on confirming local opening talent.
The opening acts for each show get special consideration, as it’s a rare opportunity for an up-and-coming musician to share the same stage as big name bands. Giving local musicians that chance fits seamlessly as an extension of the festival focus on community and showcasing rural halls with history and heart – while also supporting hometown musicians.
“There’s so much incredible talent coming from the towns and hamlets we’re in this year and we can’t wait to showcase their music to existing and new fans alike,” said Festival Manager, Kelly Symes.
Local acts have now been confirmed for almost all the shows and include a range of musical stylings and performers. Local opener, Jeff Callery, will play Gananoque’s Firehall Theatre; Fiddlehead Soup will perform at the Burritt’s Rapids Community Hall; The Denis Sisters will grace the stage in Arnprior; Miss Emily will open at the Seeley’s Bay Community Hall; The Lanark Fiddler’s Guild will play the Maberly Community Hall, and many more!
To find out more about each opener and headliner, please see our artist profiles.
Symes said incorporating local opening acts often adds additional authenticity to the performances, as the local music scene is typically an extension of the small hall itself. Many of the small town halls and venues in the schedule this year have played a major role in launching local musicians over the years, giving them an opportunity to be heard while playing for community suppers, dances and events. As such, hall representatives are asked to recommend the local musicians who will open the Small Halls concerts in their communities.
In addition to the opening acts, watch for more information in the coming weeks regarding community events that will be associated with each show. From markets to dinners, the host halls are throwing open their doors to make the 2016 performances of the Festival of Small Halls even more memorable! Keep an eye on our Community Events page as the summer progresses for more updates.
In the meantime, be sure you get your tickets soon because the shows are selling quickly. Visit our online box office here to check out the schedule and get your tickets!