Strathspey Performing Arts Centre

Rawlins Cross
2019-12-01 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax)
*** PLEASE NOTE: New date and time for show due to weather!! Rawlins Cross will now be at Strathspey on Sunday, December 1 at 6pm. ***

Please join us on Sunday, December 1 at 6pm as we welcome Rawlins Cross to our Mabou stage as part of their ’30th Anniversary Flying Colours Tour’. Tickets on sale now!
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Rawlins Cross is approaching legendary status as one of Canada’s most accomplished and beloved Celtic music groups. With the upcoming release of its 10th studio recording, ‘Flying Colours’, Rawlins Cross continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of a dedicated global fan-base developed over an acclaimed career.

The band was formed in St. John’s, Newfoundland in the late 1980s by songwriting brothers Dave Panting (guitar and mandolin), Geoff Panting (keyboards and accordion) and Ian McKinnon (highland pipes, tin whistle and bodhran). With the solid rhythm section of Halifax bassist and Chapman Stick player Brian Bourne and Ontario-based drummer Howie Southwood, Rawlins Cross enlisted PEI singer Joey Kitson to complete its signature sound.
Since the beginning, Rawlins Cross has been at the vanguard of the fusion of Celtic traditional music with the rhythms of Rock, Pop and Worldbeat music. Equally at ease with a soulful Highland Air (MacPherson’s Lament) or a raucous party song (Colleen, Wild Rose, Reel ‘n’ Roll), Rawlins Cross never fails to electrify its faithful fans. Over the years, Rawlins Cross has always been a “fan favourite” on the North American and European music festival circuit and regularly plays to sold-out concert halls across Canada.
30 years and 9 albums later, Rawlins Cross continues to maintain a steady course with their 10th studio recording “Flying Colours” (November 2019). “Flying Colours” will prove to be another significant mile marker in the band’s storied career – an eclectic mix of the old world and the new.

Comedian Derek Edwards
2019-10-23 19:30 - 21:30
TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY, JUNE 14!
“So Here’s the Thing …” – A breath of fresh air, finely honed and relentlessly funny! Take a break from the world and settle in for a seamless glide over life’s troubled waters. Like the canoeist seated deftly atop his life jacket, with whiskey and pot cookies sealed in airtight containers, Derek Edwards has left little to chance in this polished comedic adventure.
They say, “Brevity is the soul of wit.” And like in a Hollywood movie when the fleeing hero has to jump off a cliff into a waterfall, and the bad guys say, “Nobody could have survived THAT,” then they cut back to a single hand reaching out of the rushing water, finding purchase on a floating log. Derek is like that Sodden Log! An island of stability amidst the frenzy. An oft saturated and not entirely stable respite from life’s turmoil.
From Vegas to St. John’s, this Just For Laughs veteran is universally considered to be among the comic elite. Certainly his peers think so, as evidenced by the fact that he’s a four-time nominee, and winner of Best Standup Comic – Canadian Comedy Awards, as well as a multiple Gemini nominee for Best Performance in a Comedy. As Rick Mercer says, “Everyone knows Derek is the funniest man in Canada.”
Clearly the critics agree: “5 STARS – the funniest man on earth” – Winnipeg Free Press; “4 STARS – the crowd howled” – Victoria Times Colonist; “still the funniest man in Canada” – Toronto Sun; “Edwards reigns as the King of Canadian comedy” – Charlottetown Guardian; “Derek Edwards is hysterical” – Calgary Sun; “Edwards takes stand-up to next stage” – Georgia Straight; “the epitome of timing & storytelling” – Halifax Chronicle Herald; “the comedian’s comedian” – London Free Press.
“So Here’s the Thing …” – Derek Edwards’ new 90-minute stand-up comedy show, …a richly textured and enthralling ‘cut above,’ delivered with pace and authority by the consummate Canadian Comedian.

Ed Asner: A Man and his Prostate
2019-10-19 14:00 - 19:30
TICKETS ON SALE ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7 at 11AM
Another great coup as the legendary Ed Asner, winner of 7 Emmy Awards and known to generations of fans as Lou Grant in the Mary Tyler Moore Show, Santa in Elf and as the voice of Carl in Pixar and Disney’s Up, performs at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre in ‘A Man and His Prostate’.
“It’s got wonderful humor and it’s got truth in it,” Asner says of the play written by Ed Weinberger, who, like Asner, has earned numerous Emmy Awards for his television work. Weinberger wrote for comedy legend Bob Hope, while also plying his craft for stand-up comics Richard Pryor and Dick Gregory. Additionally, Weinberger put his writing skills to work on television for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, The Dean Martin Show, and Taxi.
Based on a true-life experience, a man discovers his inner self in more ways than one. A near tragedy is masterfully transformed into a one-man comedy, perfectly portrayed by Ed Asner in his hilarious visit to the hospital in preparation for surgery he doesn’t want.
See the matinee at 2pm on Saturday, October 19 at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre in Mabou, Cape Breton.

(Friday’s performance is another great show with Ed Asner… God Help Us!)
Can’t decide which show to choose? Buy tickets to both and save! Enter SAVE15 at checkout to save 15% off regular priced tickets when you purchase for both Ed Asner events.

Ed Asner: God Help Us!
2019-10-18 19:30
TICKETS ON SALE ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7 at 11AM
Sick of politics? Then… GOD HELP US! (A new political comedy starring Ed Asner as God!)
GOD HELP US! is a play ripped from today’s headlines, an evening’s entertainment that is at once hilarious and thought provoking.
This lighthearted play asks: Is it possible to disagree without being disagreeable?
Maybe only the Lord can bring us together in this hilarious and insightful entertainment, where the debate gets hot and the passion gets hotter. GOD – played by legendary Emmy-winning actor, Ed Asner – is a wise, cantankerous and wildly funny deity who confronts two political pundits with a romantic history: Lawrence (a liberal lad played by CBU Boardmore Theatre’s Todd Hiscock) and Leslie (a conservative gal played by Kerrianne MacKenzie). He is not at all pleased with our politics or what we’ve done to his Creation. GOD HELP US! speaks to audiences of all political persuasions with one essential argument: that we have to listen to each other so that we can all live – and laugh – together.
See the show on Friday, October 18 at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre in Mabou, Cape Breton. Tickets available now!

(Saturday’s performance is another great show at 2pm with Ed Asner… ‘A Man and His Prostate’)
Can’t decide which show to choose? Buy tickets to both and save! Enter SAVE15 at checkout to save 15% off regular priced tickets when you purchase for both Ed Asner events.

Valdy in Concert
2019-09-29 19:30 - 21:30
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
There’s something about Valdy’s music that makes it memorable; between his soothing voice and captivating guitar, his songs have that comforting factor that make you want to always keep listening.
Please join us on September 29 at 7:30pm in Mabou, Nova Scotia for Valdy in Concert.
Paul Valdemar Horsdal (aka Valdy) is a Canadian folk and country musician.
With a career spanning nearly half a century, Valdy’s music has not only been a staple to our folk music industry, but an inspiration to Canadians nationwide. His songs of peace and joy have influenced audiences for decades and now he’ll be sharing them at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre.
Valdy has sold nearly half a million copies of his 13 albums, four of which are certified gold. He’s also won two Juno awards for Folk Singer of the Year and Folk Entertainer of the Year, as well as seven other nominations. He was awarded the National Achievement Award by SOCAN in 2005, and was appointed a member of the Order of Canada in 2011.

Save our Keppoch School
2019-09-21 19:00
Stories and Songs from a Ceilidh House
A Ships of 1801 Production
The spirited folks on Keppoch Mountain are pulling together to raise the money to keep their school open. In this Ships of 1801 production, the Keppoch families are again short on cash but rich in talent so they straighten their skirts, turn down their rubber boots and put on a community concert.
When two strikingly different candidates apply for the teaching position, they have to decide whether it is Latin or Gaelic they want echoing from the one room school. Then the talk turns to curriculum trends and classroom discipline.
Pull up a seat in the MacLean farmhouse kitchen on September 21 at 7pm for the music and stories of Hollywood, lumber camps, berry picking, courting, moonshine and the surprising frailties of outdoor toilets.

Town Heroes
2019-08-24 19:30 - 21:30
Sure to be a sold out show, grab your seats early for an unforgettable evening with The Town Heroes on our Mabou, Cape Breton stage!
Cape Breton’s own Town Heroes are an Alternative-Rock band known for crafting catchy, thoughtful songs. Whether a sweaty rock show or an intimate acoustic environment, The Town Heroes want you to be entertained. They’ve toured the world, released three critically acclaimed albums and won an array of industry awards. Anthemic choruses, 3-part harmonies, tender falsettos highlight their catchy yet thoughtful songs.
On stage they move like intense caricatures – soaked in sweat, pushing every chord, note and beat to the limit. A structured wall of sound emerges; familiar yet distinctive. Their music is a perfect soundtrack for contemplating life with a bounce in your step.

This show is part of our exciting 2019 summer festival, Currents! CURRENTS will feature some of Nova Scotia’s most exciting up and coming musicians, representing a variety of genres from Nova Scotia’s diverse music scene. Our stage is transformed into the most intimate, up-close and personal event you’ll ever attend. Musicians and the audience are all together in one space for an unforgettable experience!
Enjoy a local cash bar featuring Nova Scotia brews including Big Spruce, Breton Brewing, Marble Mountain wines and Glenora Distillery’s finest whisky products. The event is open to all ages.

The Campbell Trio
2019-08-12 19:30 - 21:30
A Glengarry family, whose individual talents and accomplishments are remarkable, and when combined, performances by The Campbell Trio are not to be missed! They play a wonderfully broad range of music, including classical, folk, jazz and have a special love of upbeat Celtic styles.
Mom, Gabrielle, a vocalist and pianist, was born in Alexandria, Ontario. She studied music in Montreal, obtained her Royal Conservatory diploma in voice, and studied jazz at St. Francis Xavier University. Since her return to Alexandria she performs regularly in Eastern Ontario, directs a music studio, and presides over the MCM Music Festival. Her vocal gifts and musical arrangements never fail touch the audience’s hearts.
Son, Noël, is a multi-talented 20-year-old musician, born in Antigonish. He is currently pursuing his musical education at McGill university in cello performance. He has obtained RCM performance diplomas in both piano and cello. Noël plays bass with with Celtic groups, The Hallions and Torridon. He was a finalist in the first season of Virtuose, broadcast on CBC Radio-Canada, a television experience that led him on a tour through Quebec and Ontario, with Gregory Charles. Noël also composes repertoire for solo cello and will be releasing an album in the fall.
Daughter, Rachel, is 17 year old vocalist and multi-instrumentalist. She is currently pursuing her grade 10 violin, ARCT voice diploma, and has already obtained a performance diploma from The Royal Conservatory in piano. She is a twotime Royal Conservatory Gold Medalist in voice as well as a semi finalist on the La Voix Jr Television series. She also enjoys playing the harp, the cajón and the mandolin. Rachel is a senior member of Glengarry’s famed MacLeod Fiddlers and is very often heard firing up the halls of Eastern Ontario with her fiddle.

This show is part of our exciting 2019 summer festival, Currents! CURRENTS will feature some of Nova Scotia’s most exciting up and coming musicians, representing a variety of genres from Nova Scotia’s diverse music scene. Our stage is transformed into the most intimate, up-close and personal event you’ll ever attend. Musicians and the audience are all together in one space for an unforgettable experience!
Enjoy a local cash bar featuring Nova Scotia brews including Big Spruce, Breton Brewing, Marble Mountain wines and Glenora Distillery’s finest whisky products. The event is open to all ages.

Slowcoaster
2019-07-20 19:30 - 21:30
Please join us as we welcome Slowcoaster to our stage in Mabou, Cape Breton on Saturday, July 20. With infectious and captivating lyrics, reinforced by a commanding groove, Slowcoaster takes you on a ride to the heart of the party with no apologies. Throwing down their high-energy danceable tunes, the Cape Breton trio fuses ska, reggae, hip hop, and classic house influences with their unique brand of funky rock and roll. Having spent the past ten years infiltrating the Canadian live music scene, Slowcoaster has firmly established themselves as one of the country’s most popular jam rock bands.
The Darkest of Discos marks Slowcoaster’s fifth studio album. Highly celebrated by fans and industry alike, Slowcoaster will take Discos on the road, hitting Canadian cities coast to coast. Their polished, addictive recorded sound and their highly potent live performance have secured Slowcoaster as one of Canada’s most paramount independent bands on the scene today.

This show is part of our exciting 2019 summer festival, Currents! CURRENTS will feature some of Nova Scotia’s most exciting up and coming musicians, representing a variety of genres from Nova Scotia’s diverse music scene. Our stage is transformed into the most intimate, up-close and personal event you’ll ever attend. Musicians and the audience are all together in one space for an unforgettable experience!
Enjoy a local cash bar featuring Nova Scotia brews including Big Spruce, Breton Brewing, Marble Mountain wines and Glenora Distillery’s finest whisky products. The event is open to all ages.

Andre Pettipas
2019-07-15 19:30
“There is only one word that comes to mind when you see Andre on stage… showman. Musical talent aside this young man has presence that is reminiscent of a young Brian Setzer, working the stage and the room with an irresistible charisma. It’s not all theatrics with these boys though, they do have the musical chops to go with it.” – B Lynn Hartling//Canadian Beats
Join us on Monday, July 15 at 7:30pm as we welcome Andre Pettipas to our stage in Mabou, Cape Breton. The Antigonish County songwriter’s sound is described as “grease coast rock ‘n’ roll” with a strong 90s pop rock influence and elements of progressive rock thrown in. As one of the founders of Andre Pettipas and the Giants, the group has three albums under their belt and a slew of sing along anthem songs.
After a summer-long cross Canada tour last year, Andre’s group has won numerous awards with their catchy sound. You won’t want to miss this fun filled evening!
Enjoy a local cash bar featuring Nova Scotia brews including Big Spruce, Breton Brewing, Marble Mountain wines and Glenora Distillery’s finest whisky products. The event is open to all ages.

This show is part of our exciting 2019 summer festival, Currents! CURRENTS will feature some of Nova Scotia’s most exciting up and coming musicians, representing a variety of genres from Nova Scotia’s diverse music scene. Our stage is transformed into the most intimate, up-close and personal event you’ll ever attend. Musicians and the audience are all together in one space for an unforgettable experience!

Neptune Theatre's A Cape Breton Kitchen Party
2019-07-12 19:30 - 21:30
This show is night 2 of our production. For July 11’s performance, visit here.
Come celebrate a Nova Scotian tradition with Neptune Theatre!
Hosted by a stunning cast of East Coasters: Celia Koughan, Karen Lizotte, Malia Rogers, and award-winning musician Ian Sherwood, featuring special guests from the East Coast Music scene, this ceilidh is an all-around good time. Full of singing, dancing and fun, it’s the perfect opportunity to grab your friends, bring your family, raise a glass and share a laugh or two!
Created by Ian Sherwood & Jeremy Webb / Directed by Laura Caswell / Musical Direction by Ian Sherwood

Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.strathspeyplace.com, by phone at 902-945-5300 or in person at the Box Office in Mabou. Find out more about Neptune Theatre on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube channel NeptuneHFX.

Neptune Theatre's A Cape Breton Kitchen Party
2019-07-11 19:30 - 21:30
This show is night 1 of our production. For July 12’s performance, visit here.
Come celebrate a Nova Scotian tradition with Neptune Theatre!
Hosted by a stunning cast of East Coasters: Celia Koughan, Karen Lizotte, Malia Rogers, and award-winning musician Ian Sherwood, featuring special guests from the East Coast Music scene, this ceilidh is an all-around good time. Full of singing, dancing and fun, it’s the perfect opportunity to grab your friends, bring your family, raise a glass and share a laugh or two!
Created by Ian Sherwood & Jeremy Webb / Directed by Laura Caswell / Musical Direction by Ian Sherwood

Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.strathspeyplace.com, by phone at 902-945-5300 or in person at the Box Office in Mabou. Find out more about Neptune Theatre on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube channel NeptuneHFX.

An Evening with Andrea Beaton & Patrick Gillis
2019-07-08 19:30 - 21:30
It’s opening night of our summer series! On Monday, July 8 at 7:30pm, please join us in welcoming acclaimed Cape Breton fiddler Andrea Beaton and Scotsville’s Patrick Gillis on guitar. The stage venue at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre in Mabou, Cape Breton is transformed into one of the coziest and most dynamic spaces – musicians and listeners all together in the one space for an up close and personal experience you’ll never forget!
Andrea Beaton fiddler, tune composer and recording artist who is known for her powerful bow and driving style. She tours internationally and is in great demand as a teacher at music camps and fiddling/dancing workshops all over the world.
Andrea has released six solo albums, one duo album with her father, Kinnon Beaton, and three books of her original tunes. She also recorded an album with her family “The Beaton family of Mabou” in 2007 for the Smithsonian Institute. Most of her solo albums were nominated for awards, and her 2010 CD, ‘Branches,’ won the Canadian East Coast Music Awards “Instrumental Recording of the Year!”
Her new duo, Beaton-Plasse, with fiddler Véronique Plasse from Quebec, just released an album which was nominated for two 2019 East Coat Music awards! Instrumental Recording of the Year and Roots Traditional Recording of the Year.
Whatever the configuration, Andrea’s passion for Cape Breton fiddle, piano and stepdancing are sure to delight any crowd.
Patrick Gillis grew up with traditional music being played almost constantly in his home. His father, uncle, and two older brothers playing the fiddle gave Paddy a great appreciation and understanding of Cape Breton music. Along with his love for the music, he brings a great amount of energy that can be heard in his accompaniment and in his solos. Being left handed and only having right handed guitars around, Patrick learned to play up-side down and backwards, because “no one ever told me the difference,” he says.

This show is part of our exciting 2019 summer festival, Currents! CURRENTS will feature some of Nova Scotia’s most exciting up and coming musicians, representing a variety of genres from Nova Scotia’s diverse music scene.
Enjoy a local cash bar featuring Nova Scotia brews including Big Spruce, Breton Brewing, Marble Mountain wines and Glenora Distillery’s finest whisky products. The event is open to all ages.

Beatlemania Revisited
2019-06-15 19:30 - 21:30
“It’s been a hard day’s night, and I’ve been working like a dog…”
Beatlemania Revisited is a family oriented, audience-interactive performance that will have fans laughing, singing, dancing and clapping along throughout the show. Musically, the show features ‘note-for-note’ song recreations by the amazing cast who are further augmented with full costumes along with vintage instruments and equipment.
Focusing mainly on The Beatles’ live performances, the show kicks off with their electrifying first appearance on the Ed Sullivan television show in February 1964, taking the audience through five years of the Beatles’ era concluding with their famous January 1969 ‘roof top’ concert. Along the way, Beatlemania Revisited takes in a total of 35 songs, including ‘I Want To Hold Your Hand’, ‘Ticket to Ride’, ‘Yesterday’, ‘Penny Lane, ‘Hey Jude’, ‘Something’, ‘Let It Be’ and many other timeless favourites.
Young or old, don’t miss the opportunity to experience this fab new show!!

“Soooo enjoyed your performance last night!!! We will be attending more of your concerts.”
“Wow you guys sound and look like the real Beatles!”
“Thanks for a wonderful sweet 16 present!”
“Thank you for bringing back so many great memories!”

‘Beatlemania Revisited’, a new Canadian-based international touring show, recreates the look, sound and excitement of the fab four’s live performances. This unique musical and theatrical event features a combination of talented European and North American cast members in the roles of John, Paul, George and Ringo.
Leading the cast is the incomparable Ian Garcia who has performed on worldwide as Sir Paul and is a current member of the International Box office smash ‘Rain”. In the role of Ringo Starr is Mark Matthews. Originally from London UK, Mark is also known in Canada for his original musical works and is a 2010 Juno Award winner. A veteran of the musical stage, his uncanny portrayal of the Beatles’ drummer has resulted in many rave reviews. Peter Grant, a talented multi-instrumentalist and self-confessed ‘Beatle fanatic’ has performed alongside numerous Canadian artists and has travelled 3 continents performing The Beatles songbook. His guitar skills matched with his onstage enthusiasm and wit make him a natural in the role of George Harrison. Rounding out the fab four cast is Belfast, Northern Ireland native Colum Henry who captures the energy and humour of John Lennon to perfection. Of course, no Beatles related performance would be complete without the musical contributions of producer George Martin and keyboardist Billy Preston. The ‘fifth Beatle’ role is handled admirably by multi-talented musical director and keyboardist John Brocksom.

Little Voices Youth Choir
2019-06-09 14:00 - 17:00
The Little Voices choir is going to rock the roof off of Strathspey Performing Arts Centre on June 9th at 2PM!

Little Voices is a youth mentorship program created by Strathspey Performing Arts Centre that focuses on getting children singing! In the fall of 2018, the first ever Little Voices choir was formed. Over 40 children from Inverness County came weekly to SPAC to learn a repertoire of Christmas songs, in preparation for a final debut concert performance in December. The children had the opportunity to perform arrangements with a live band!
This spring, another 40 plus children between the ages of 5 and 18 have gathered once again, this time learning an array of hits from the past 50 years of popular music. The program has offered great opportunities for building friendships, sharing many laughs, and having a wonderful time singing together as a group.

This most dedicated group of young singers will once again have the luxury of performing with a live band accompaniment. Special thanks to the generosity of some local professional musicians who will be accompanying the Little Voices choir on June 9th at 2PM.

Admission for this event goes towards future youth programming in our facility. See you all there!

Momentary Lapse - A Pink Floyd Tribute Show
2019-06-01 19:30 - 21:30
** Rescheduled for Saturday, June 1! **
Nova Scotia’s ‘Momentary Lapse’ brings the audio and visual sensations of Pink Floyd to the stage, delivering favorite moments from classic Floyd albums: The Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, Animals, The Wall, Momentary Lapse of Reason and The Division Bell. Momentary Lapse takes you on an authentic journey into the past of one of the world’s most timeless and iconic bands by recreating one of the most legendary live shows in rock history.
This Pink Floyd tribute concert has left audience members in awe:
“…I was Gob-Smacked!”
“…it was Unbelievable!”
“…OMG, what a show!”
“… Didn’t want it to end!”
“The best tribute band I’ve ever booked”
“From the vocals, the musicians, the lighting, to the video presentation, the production was not only top-notch, it was the best I’ve ever seen on our stage!!”
“This show was AMAZING both visual and technically from start to finish!!”
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Band members include:
Jofe Macdougall – Vocals, Guitar; Murray MacIvor – Guitar, Vocals; Brett Macdougall – Sax; Robyn Alcorn – Vocals; Niki Veniot – Vocals; Sarah Macpherson – Vocals; Ray Hedd – Bass; Steve Keough – Drums; Rick Rankin – Keyboards

Gaelic Storytellers Film Festival
2019-05-25 13:00 - 16:00
The Gaelic Storytellers Film Festival takes place in Mabou at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, May 25 from 1 pm to 4 pm. Presented by the Gaelic Filmmakers of Nova Scotia with support from the Office of Gaelic Affairs, this one-day festival features a suite short films from Nova Scotia and Scotland, Gaelic storytelling, music and dance.
In addition to film screenings, the event will feature a ceilidh with performances by Shelly Campbell, Kenneth MacKenzie, Margie Beaton, Tracey MacNeil, Goiridh Dòmhnullach, Sarah MacInnis, Nora and Orianna MacNeil, Patrick Gillis and Mac Morin.
The event is free admission.

The Gaelic Storytellers Film Festival is made possible through support by Iomairtean na Gàidhlig / Gaelic Affairs, Comhairle Na Gàidhlig / The Gaelic Council of Nova Scotia, NovaStream, FilmG, Strathspey Performing Arts Centre and Decor by Carrie.
More information can be found on the festival Facebook page.

The Lonely: The Music of Roy Orbison
2019-05-24 19:30
Celebrating the music of Roy Orbison

“Saw Roy live, closed my eyes and I was right back there!”
Join us on Friday, May 24 at 7:30pm for THE LONELY: the music of ROY ORBISON! On tour from Victoria, British Columbia, and selling out from coast to coast, this fantastic show will celebrate the music of Roy Orbison.
With familiar hits such as ‘Blue Bayou’, ‘Only the Lonely’, and ‘You Got It’, this excellent band will wow the audience with their fantastic show! You’ll also hear hits from The Traveling Wilburys and The Everly Brothers during an evening of cover tunes unlike any other.

Tickets available now!
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Steve Poltz Shine On... Canada!
2019-05-22 19:30
“Onstage, Poltz is part busker, part Iggy Pop and part Robin Williams, a freewheeling folkie with a quick wit and big heart. See him live and wonder why he doesn’t fill arenas.” – Associated Press

We’re so pleased to announce “Steve Poltz Shine On… Canada!” on Wednesday, May 22 at 7:30pm in Mabou, Inverness County.
TICKETS ON SALE ON FRIDAY, MARCH 15

This event will be general admission seating – an intimate, up-close and personal experience that you’ll never forget! If you haven’t seen Steve before, you are in for a real treat!

Throughout over three decades in music, Steve Poltz did it all and more—often shared by way of his rockin’ countrified folk slices of sardonic Americana (hatched in Halifax). Of course, he co-wrote Jewel’s multiplatinum Hot 100-topping megahit “You Were Meant For Me,” but he also went on a whale watch with her and a few federales that turned into a drug bust. The two still share the story at every festival they play together. He made his bones as the frontman for underground legends The Rugburns, who burned rubber crisscrossing the continent on marathon tours and still pop up once in a while for the rare and quickly sold out reunion gig.
In 20 years since his full-length solo debut, One Left Shoe, he blessed the world’s ears with twelve solo records, spanning the acclaimed 2010 Dreamhouse and most recently Folk Singer in 2015. NPR summed it up best, “Critics and fans alike now regard Poltz as a talented and prolific songwriter.” By 2016, he survived a stroke, endured anything the music industry could throw at him, and still performed like “280 days a year.”
However, he still never lived in Nashville, which represents a turning point in the story and the genesis of his 2018 Red House Records debut, Shine On…
Evoking themes of “hope, love, contemplation, celebration of Wednesday, pharmacists, and the fact that windows are not inanimate objects and they sometimes have conversations with each other,” the record represents Steve at his most inspired and insightful. The opener and title track “Shine On” pairs a delicate vocal with lithely plucked acoustic strings as he urges, “Shine on, shine on.”
“‘All Things Shine’ came about after one of the many mass shootings on this planet,” he sighs. “I was feeling overwhelmed. So, I wanted to put my feelings into words and melody. I was thinking that even if we’re feeling hopeless that there is still beauty. All things shine in their own way.
As good as his albums are (and they’re very, very good), Steve positively owns a crowd when he’s on stage, where the proverbial rubber hits the road. His shows are the stuff of legend – no two are alike – and can take an unsuspecting audience from laughter to tears and back again in the space of a single song.
He is quite possibly the most talented, and engaging, solo performer on this planet. That’s what 250+ shows a year on three continents will do for you. Whether he’s Canadian, or American, or simply from space, there’s no denying there’s only one Stephen Joseph Joshua Poltz and to know him is to love him.
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Film Screening: Neither Wolf nor Dog
2019-05-16 18:30 - 20:30
Please join us on Thursday, May 16th at 6:30pm for a special film screening of Neither Wolf Nor Dog.

A white author is summoned by a Lakota Elder who asks him to write a book about his perspective. After a blundering false start, he is all but kidnapped and sucked into a road trip through the heart of the contemporary Native American landscape.
THE CAST
Dave Bald Eagle / Christopher Sweeney / Richard Ray Whitman / Zahn McClarnon / Roseanne Supernault / Tatanka Means
DIRECTED BY Steven Lewis Simpson

Adapted from the acclaimed novel by Kent Nerburn, this funny and deeply moving film follows an author who gets sucked into the heart of contemporary Native American life in the sparse lands of the Dakotas by a 95-year-old Lakota elder.
Kent Nerburn (Christopher Sweeney), a good-hearted, white American family man and writer, receives a mysterious call from a distant Indian reservation regarding an oral history book he made with Red Lake Ojibwe reservation students in northern Minnesota. Despite misgivings, Kent travels across America’s northern plains to arrive at the bleak, poverty-stricken reservation deep in the high plains of the Dakotas.
The old man, Dan (Dave Bald Eagle), who lives alone in a clapboard shack back in the hills with his only real companions—his dog, a close friend named Grover (Richard Ray Whitman) and his granddaughter, Wenonah (Roseanne Supernault)—interrogates Kent as to his motives for working with Indian people. Once satisfied he is not a turquoise clad “wannabe” spouting Indian philosophy, Dan recounts the story of American history from the Native point of view.
As the stories pour from Dan, Kent’s understanding of the world is turned upside down. An inanimate landscape comes alive, and a history he thought he knew is called into question.

Dance Debut: Dance, It's a Natural Thing
2019-05-10 18:30 - 20:30
Please join us for Dance Debut’s 31st Annual Recital ‘Dance, It’s a Natural Thing’ on Friday, May 10.

Join the dancers of Inverness County as they share their very special year with you. Utilizing the passion of tap, jazz, ballet and lyrical dance styles, the choreographies this year center around a theme of using dance to strengthen, enhance confidence and support the energy and vitality of the body. The dancers will share their versions of the muscle dance, the meridian sweep, dancing with muscles in mind, the Wishing Jar Forever Dance, and the flow of the 5 Elements.
The show will open with the Sound of the Music of the Plants… a recording of music created from plants in our studio areas with the flow and power of the scarves of the 5 Elements dancing around the theatre. Dancers from as young as 2 and a half years to 14 years will share how they have developed the special choreographies this year in expressing them with their personal skills and expression. Even the power of the dragon will be shared and a sabre dance…. this will prove to be one of the most unique performances experienced yet with Dance Debut. The tap dance art created special for this year’s explorations will also be included in special additions… Please join us in celebrating this special year.
Last year was a sellout, so please do not delay in reserving your seat for this memorable occasion.

East Coast Illusionists
2019-05-04 19:30
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

The East Coast Illusionists are bringing their ‘Beyond Imagination Tour’ to the Strathspey Performing Arts Centre as each performer combines their own talent and taking it to the stage on Saturday, May 4, 2019.

You will see Giorno performing jaw-dropping magic, sleight of hand and comedy and Stephanie MacPhee with her side show stunts and her appetite for fire swallowing… Kirk MacNeil playing with his audience’s minds as he will read your mind then there is Ian Stewart who holds the Guinness Book of World Records for chainsaw juggling… Ian has been performing around the World for over 20 years and over 2000 live shows. Ian performed on The Late Show with David Letterman and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and recently on ‘America’s Got Talent’ and ‘Penn & Teller Fool Us’ and last Paul Naas and his grand illusions as he levitates his wonderful assistant Kat.

This will be a night you won’t forget with over 2 hours of complete amazement, so make sure you’re part of the adventure and GREAT FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

Film Screening: Pilgrim's Progress
2019-04-18 15:30 - 17:00
Join us on Thursday, April 18 for a special screening of Pilgrim’s Progress at 3:30pm at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre in Mabou.

Based on John Bunyan’s epic masterpiece, THE PILGRIM’S PROGRESS is one of the most popular books of all time, and one of the most important stories of our faith! Second to the Bible in total copies and translations, the story was written by John Bunyan a pastor, imprisoned for sharing his faith.
This powerful allegory helps families understand the spiritual journey is the most important journey in life, as well as the importance of sticking to the path, even when the journey gets difficult.
Donations will be accepted at the door; proceeds go toward the translation of the movie into languages other than English. Interested families are asked to pre-register at bit.ly/mabou.
For full details about the movie, visit the film’s website. Film is rated PG.

Film Screening: Passion of the Christ
2019-04-16 18:30
Please join us on Tuesday, April 16th at 6:30pm for a special film screening of The Passion of the Christ.
Admission is by donation.

Mel Gibson’s well-publicized production The Passion of the Christ concerns the last 12 hours in the life of Jesus of Nazareth. The dialogue is spoken in the ancient Aramaic language, along with Latin and Hebrew.
In the Garden of Gethsemane near the Mount of Olives, Jesus (James Caviezel) is betrayed by Judas Iscariot (Luca Lionello). Jesus is condemned to death for blasphemy and brought before Pontius Pilate (Hristo Naumov Shopov), the Roman governor of Judea, for sentencing. The roaring crowd demand His death, so Pilate orders His crucifixion. Jesus is severely beaten and made to carry His cross up to Golgotha, the hill outside Jerusalem, where He is nailed to the cross, crucified and died… but His death is not the end!
In this week leading up to Easter, let us remember the life, death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.

This film is rated R due to violence and graphic scenes, viewer discretion is advised.

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Island Girls
2019-04-08 19:00 - 21:30
Strathspey Performing Arts Centre is pleased to bring the Savoy Theatre production of ISLAND GIRLS, Music and Comedy, featuring four of Cape Breton’s busiest female performers: BETTE MACDONALD, HEATHER RANKIN, LUCY MACNEIL and JENN SHEPPARD.

The Fab Fem Four – each representing a different facet of Cape Breton Island’s entertainment community – are set to combine their individual musical and comedic talents, to take audiences on a journey to celebrate all things Cape Breton. Show-goers can expect to enjoy some belly laughs while they catch up with a few familiar characters, sing along with some old favourites and maybe even hear some new ones.
The quartette will be backed by musicians Stephen Muise, Fred Lavery, Brian Talbot, Emily Dingwall, Richard Burke and Colin Grant and is sure to help you shake off those winter blues!

MORE LOVE FOR THE ISLAND GIRLS:
“Absolutely amazing!!! Incredible talent…I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to see this show!!! Great job to all!” – Sarah Walker
“Incredible. So many hair-standing-up-on-the-back-of-your-neck moments. As well as so many laughs. Can’t wait for Island Girls II. Many Thanks to all.” – Carol MacLennan
“From the very ﬁrst note to the last laugh …A True Class Act !! Awesome evening. – Debbie MacIsaac
“The show was amazing, I loved every minute of it, although I would like to see it again to hear what I missed from laughing so much!” – Viola MacLeod Cuzner
“For sure, this show could & should ‘go on the road’. Fabulous singers…the choice of music was ‘spot on’…with just enough comedy to please all. WELL DONE again!” – Elaine MacGillivray
“It was fabulous!! They are all so talented!!” – Kaye Toms

The Stampeders
2019-04-03 19:30 - 21:30
THE STAMPEDERS ~ IN CONCERT

‘They’re on their way, to the city lights’ … and, THE predominant Canadian Rock ‘n’ Roll band of the 1970s – The Stampeders – are bringing along all their classic hits: Wild Eyes, Carry Me, Oh My Lady, Devil You, Monday Morning Choo Choo, Minstrel Gypsy, Hit the Road Jack and, of course, the quintessential Canadian – and Hall of Fame – song, Sweet City Woman! A veritable soundtrack to a whole generation that will ‘carry you home’ … maybe not to Birmingham … but back to a time of tie-dyed t-shirts and elevator shoes, 15¢ coffee and homemade apple pie, dating and dreaming … By the time The Stampeders get to the first chorus of the first song, everyone will be singing along.

No seventies group represented Canada’s musical identity to the world like The Stampeders. A quick look at Canada’s music scene from 1971 until 1976 confirms The Stampeders were truly the country’s international musical ambassadors, touring more extensively in Canada and overseas than any other Canadian group during that time. In 1977 the trio: Rich Dodson (lead guitar), Kim Berly (drums) and Ronnie King (bass) parted company but reunited, fittingly at the Calgary Stampede, 15 years later in 1992. Since then they’ve been recognized by SOCAN for their Lifetime Achievement, been inducted into the SOCAN Songwriters Hall of Fame on five occasions and the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame for their 1971 seminal hit Sweet City Woman.
The enduring musical legacy of The Stampeders… ‘better catch a noon train, better get there for a rock ‘n’ rolling good time!’
Audio and visual clips can be found here!
For more info visit www.shantero.com or www.stampeders.net

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Little Voices: Christmas Choir
2018-12-19 19:00 - 21:00
Join us in Mabou for Little Voices on Wednesday, December 19 at 7pm.

Over fifty youth from Inverness County have committed their time, energy and talents to creating some really fun and exciting arrangements to some of the most popular and sought after Christmas carols and Holiday favourites of all times. This super group will be accompanied by a live band. The band will at times consist of youth and adults. You’ll hear the sounds of bells, synthesizer, piano, acoustic and electric guitar, drums, the whole nine yards!

Our youth choir will also be joined by VOCAL MOTION. VOCAL MOTION is enjoying their second season as an acappella ensemble, directed by Laurel Browne. They are all former members of Browne’s children’s group, the Young County Singers. The group was formed in 2017, to provide a more sophisticated musical ensemble for teens who had previous vocal and performance experience. Choosing the music, experimenting with harmonies and rhythms are all part of the ensemble experience. The group are featured guests on the Inverness County Singers’ performances. VOCAL MOTION is open to singers ages 13-18.

Some of the music they have been working on preparing for you will include Underneath the Tree, Little Drummer Boy, Silent Night, Rocking Around the Christmas Tree, Do You Hear What I Hear, Angels We Have Heard on High, Where are You Christmas, Angels We Have Heard On High, and Iesum Dominum – a unique Gaelic hymn with a Latin chorus!

Pretty Archie
2018-12-13 19:30 - 21:30
Strathspey Performing Arts Centre is pleased to present Pretty Archie on Thursday, December 13.
Pretty Archie is a Canadiana band from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Long time friends Brian Cathcart (Lead Vocals, Guitar), Matt McNeil (Mandolin, Guitar), Colin Gillis (Harmonica, Bass, Vocals), Redmond MacDougall (Banjo, Percussion, Vocals) and recently added Scott MacLean (Guitar, Mandolin) make up the band. They are known for their entertaining, high energy, foot stomping shows, and a following that grows after each show they play.
Pretty Archie’s genuine, heartfelt writing connects listeners with a saltwater perspective on modern living. Their fun loving and at times heartbreaking music finds common ground in the blurred genres of Country, Folk, Bluegrass and Blues. Their unique sound and energetic shows leave listeners with a lasting memory.
Tickets on sale on Monday, August 27.

Battle of the Bands
2018-11-24 19:00 - 22:00
Strathspey’s 2018 Battle of the Bands
On November 24 at 7pm, SIX bands will compete for 8 hours of recording time with sound engineer Rob Stone at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre right here in Mabou and a logo design by Sara Rankin Creative! All participants will receive a free membership to Strathspey AND a free demo recording from their performance, recorded live the night of their debut.
Well known TV personality Cindy Day will be the Host for Battle of the Bands, with the panel of judges Allie Bennett, Marilyn MacDonald-MacKinnon and Andre Pettipas of Andre and the Giants!
The competitors have been chosen! We couldn’t narrow it down to five bands… so there are six competitors! Check them out:

My Favourite Headache (MFH) is an alternative acoustic rock band from Cumberland County, Nova Scotia. The band, which includes members Dylan Ellis, Drew Polegato, J Wood and Robby Osmond-Chown, has grown from four friends rocking out to covers in a garage, to headlining local events with their original written music.
Bridges is an emerging folk rock band from Inverness County. Comprised of band members Abby Mullendore, Barry Fougere and Alasdair Cameron, they’re a fun, quirky, edgy band that formed earlier this year.
The Middle River Band‘s Brian MacIver, Brian Phillips, Richard Herring, and Hector MacRae have been playing with energy and enthusiasm for over ten years. Playing ‘anything to keep ’em on the dance floor’, they’re a crazy little dance band with lots of home grown music.
The Corner Crew hails from Whycocomagh and River Denys and includes Darlene Ellis and Malcolm and Elizabeth Matheson. They’ve been playing celtic, folk, country and old rock ‘n’ roll together for six years.
Substitute Blonde is a rock/indie band from the Strait area that has been playing together for over three years. Damian Phillips, Andrew Burch and Justin “2 Stix” Landry form a ‘sloppy rock ‘n’ roll punk band’ that wants to bring new music to North America.
Ruth O’Shea is a singer-songwriter from Ireland who has been told her sound has similarities to Joan Baez. She traces it back to her roots in rural Ireland and growing up around the sounds of the 1960s and 70s.

East Coast Celtic
2018-11-10 19:30 - 21:30
FLASH SALE! YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS OUT!
November 8 & 9 – buy one ticket, get one free! For every ticket you purchase to see East Coast Celtic, you get one ticket free! Pass the word along – it’s going to be an AMAZING show this Saturday.
Offer available online here and through the Strathspey box office at 902-945-5300.

Discover strength in the culture of the Gaels to overcome life’s challenges. Liven your spirit in the rhythm of the music and dance. Dream it. Dance it. Live it.
Change of Step‘s theatrical dance production East Coast Celtic celebrates the music and connection to culture that inspires them to dance. Together with world-renowned Cape Breton musicians Dawn Beaton, Margie Beaton, Mac Morin and Kenneth MacKenzie, Change of Step shines a spotlight on rich traditions of Canada’s East Coast, setting audiences’ hearts alight.
ABOUT CHANGE OF STEP
Change of Step Highland Dance Company was formed in 2014 with a shared mission to showcase the beauty and strength of world-class highland dancing in a unique, contemporary way.
The six founding members came together through the initiative of six-time world champion Marielle Lespérance. Many of the dancers have known each other since childhood, competed against each other, performed with one another and worked side by side in dance studios together – forming strong friendships along the way. They come from different places in Ontario and Nova Scotia, have been trained by different teachers, and each have a unique dance story but all share a deep passion for highland dance.
Change of Step’s dancers are all highly accomplished. In competition, they have won numerous regional, provincial, national, and international championship titles. They also have performed internationally having delighted audiences at Parliament Hill on Canada Day, in the Vancouver Olympics, at the Dollywood Festival of Nations in Tennessee, in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and in the finals of So You Think You Can Dance Canada, among countless other performances in venues big and small.
Change of Step performs rhythmic, intricate choreography that is grounded in a deep appreciation for traditional music and showcases the strength and grace of modern highland dancing (with some step dancing added for good measure).
Change of Step is Holly Arsenault, Kayleigh Armstrong, Jenny MacKenzie, Janine Lesperance, Marielle Lesperance and Chantal Watt.
