WINDSOR, N.S. — Mermaid Theatre’s recently released fall and winter line up is packed with Canadian talent.
Danny Everson, the executive director of Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia and the Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre, said they’ve worked hard to offer an exciting concert series while maintaining affordable prices. He said he’s hopeful people will consider attending a show at the Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre this fall as it’s a fun night out.
“I don't remember when I went to the movie theatre, but I'll tell you what I do remember: when I went to see a live stage performance,” said Everson.
“We tried to make the pricing really accessible and affordable,” he noted. “We're not an urban centre, and yet we can offer professional entertainment at a really reasonable price.”
Most tickets are in the $30 price range, including tax.
Kick starting the season is Hants County’s own Roland Smith, an up and coming guitar virtuoso and composer. His show, on Sept. 7, is going to be high energy as he showcases his unique brand of Latin/flamenco fused rock, while incorporating classical elements.
To read more about the talented Windsor guitarist, read: Hants County musician racking up accolades as he pursues solo career
In October, Whiskey Jack, a country band with 40 years of experience performing from coast to coast, will land at Mermaid Theatre to showcase the stories and songs of Stompin’ Tom.
Everson said that show is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Later in October, Wolfville’s Devour! The Food Film Fest hits the road to bring the largest food film festival to town.
The event, which pairs film with food, will be at Mermaid Theatre Oct. 19. Visitors will tour the historic Imperial Theatre building while enjoying food and beverages and watching short films.
Everson said having the festival stop in Windsor is “an incredible opportunity for this town.”
Hants County’s Terra Spencer and folk group The Bombadils will be starting November off strong at Mermaid. Spencer met Luke and Sarah Frank, of The Bombadils, during a Songwriters’ Circle in Wolfville last year and they immediately hit it off.
“She told me that it's the type of music that you want to get warm and cosy next to a fire (to),” said Everson. “So, it kind of goes along with the theme of what we're about to enter into — this hibernation period.”
Theresa Malenfant and The Instigators will take the stage mid-November for a set that Everson said will be dynamic. Malenfant recently placed second out of 260-plus performers at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee in the solo/duo category.
“This is going to be a big surprise for Windsor to have a talent like this here. She's from New Brunswick, but she is a powerhouse,” said Everson. “Even if you're not interested in blues music, she will blow you away.”
Mermaid Theatre’s black light sensation The Rainbow Fish returns from touring in the United States and will put on a show Dec. 8. The theatre will then send the show back out for another touring engagement. The Rainbow Fish is an enchanting stage adaption of Marcus Pfister’s work and is geared towards younger audiences.
The 2019 season wraps up with a concert that Everson said will be a must-see.
Lennie Gallant, who has released 12 albums to date, will take the stage Dec. 14. Gallant, who holds the Order of Canada, is an internationally-touring artist who is considered a masterful storyteller.
“So we're excited to have Lennie Gallant come; he's our showman this fall-winter season,” said Everson.
Mermaid Theatre will officially release its line-up for the spring later this fall.
Everson said performing arts centres nationwide have seen a decrease in attendance as more people hold house concerts and shows at bars.
However, he said attending an event at Mermaid Theatre offers an intimate experience with the artist that is hard to top. The auditorium seats a maximum of 400 people (300 on the floor and 100 in the balcony.)
“I think there's something truly special about going with your friends or your family to a sit down concert, where you can experience something communal...and (see) incredible talent on a stage that you wouldn't get at home, you wouldn't get at a bar. I think that's really powerful.”
Everson said Mermaid Theatre has also elevated its service. They purchased a gourmet popcorn maker, which, last season, proved to be quite popular. They’ve also introduced libations for select shows. Wine and beer will be available for patrons to purchase at most of the adult concerts.
“I feel like that goes hand-in-hand sometimes with a show,” said Everson. “And we have the luxury that you can bring in your drink if you want into the show.”
They’ve also made it easier to buy tickets. Everson said tickets can be purchased in person Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. until noon, and again from 2-4 p.m., as well as via TicketPro Atlantic. They also recently introduced a Puffin membership, where, for a $50 donation, the person receives VIP seating, a bag of popcorn at the show and has their name printed in all of the programs.
Everson said Mermaid Theatre is really trying to give visitors a fun and unique experience each time they attend the historic downtown Windsor venue.
Upcoming Shows
What: Roland Smith
When: Sept. 7, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $23
What: Whiskey Jack presents Stories and Songs of Stompin’ Tom
When: Oct. 5, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $35
What: Devour! The Food Film Fest’s A Taste of Devour! in Windsor
When: Oct. 19, 6-9:30 p.m.
Tickets: $20 plus service fees and taxes
What: Terra Spencer and The Bombadils
When: Nov. 2, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $27
What: Theresa Malenfant and The Instigators
When: Nov. 16, 8 p.m.
Tickets: $32
What: The Rainbow Fish
When: Dec. 8, 2 p.m.
Tickets: $17.50
What: Lennie Gallant
When: Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $48
If You Go
- Mermaid Theatre is located at 106 Gerrish St., in Windsor.
- Find out more by visiting: mermaidtheatre.ca
