On Saturday, February 8, the Harrison Festival Society will be welcoming Nova Scotia roots artist Charlie A’Court to the stage for the first time in Harrison.
Planted at the crossroads of roots and soul, Charlie A’Court possesses a mighty voice, fierce guitar work and contemporary songwriting that is loved by fans across Canada and beyond. His new album, “San Palarino” is an Americana-driven deep dive into the topics of growing older, gaining emotional well-being, and reflecting on the collective weight bearing down on humanity. Much of the album features co-writes with some of Canada’s top singer/songwriters including Matt Andersen, Terra Spencer, and Colin MacDonald (The Trews). The music is drawing directly from his influences like Martin Sexton, Melissa Etheridge, Hot House Flowers, and Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit. Charlie has always been recognized for exploring his musical horizons. As a six-time ECMA winner and eight-time Nova Scotia Music Award winner, Charlie has earned awards for Blues, Pop, and R&B/Soul Recordings of the Year, and on multiple occasions been recognized as Entertainer of the Year. A’Court has also received multiple Maple Blues Award nominations including Male Vocalist and Songwriter of the Year. Growing up in rural Nova Scotia, Canada, Charlie spent his youth learning to sing and play guitar, discovering singers like Otis Redding and Sam Cooke. It wasn’t long before he discovered the blistering blues guitar playing of B.B. King, and Buddy Guy. “These guys would wail in a way where every note mattered. They sang without apology and played guitar like it was their last day” recalls A’Court. Then there was Eric Clapton. “He really opened my mind as a musician. Through the 90s, Clapton’s music showed me that my music could balance between blues and adult contemporary songwriting.” All these influences go in to the quality songwriting and playing that will make for a special performance on January 8. Tickets are $28 and are on sale now. Kids 12 and under are free. For more information on tickets and the artist, please visit www.harrisonfestival.com ![]() Experience the vibrant energy of Cape Breton’s finest as Beòlach takes the stage for an unforgettable evening of traditional folk music and step dance. Featuring the original members Mac Morin, Mairi Rankin, and Wendy MacIsaac, Beòlach brings their signature blend of innovative arrangements, infectious energy, and deep-rooted passion for the music of Cape Breton, Scotland, and Ireland. 📅 Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025 ⏰ Time: Doors @ 7:00 PM | Show @ 7:30 PM 📍 Venue: Clarke Theatre, 33700 Prentis Ave, Mission, BC V2V 7B1 🎟 Tickets: Adults $25.00 | Youth $10.00 | Children 12 and under Free 🔗 Ticket Link: Buy Tickets About Beòlach: Nearly 25 years ago, a late-night session at the Celtic Colours International Festival sparked the formation of Beòlach, a group of six dynamic solo performers whose collective artistry breathed new life into traditional music. Over the years, the band has earned a reputation for their thrilling arrangements of Cape Breton, Scottish, and Irish tunes featuring fiddle, bagpipes, piano, and guitar. Today, Mac, Mairi, and Wendy, the three original members, carry the torch, showcasing their solo and collective talents in performances that reflect their lifelong friendship and shared passion for traditional music. Their onstage camaraderie, natural wit, and boundless energy have delighted audiences worldwide. Highlights of Beòlach’s Legacy:
Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of Cape Breton’s rich musical heritage. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the genre, Beòlach promises a night of music and dance you’ll never forget! All of our shows are all-ages and accessible. Tickets for Beloach's February 8th show are on sale now. We can't wait to see you in the audience! For more information, visit missionfolkmusicfestival.ca or contact [email protected] Sharon Syrette is a passionate advocate for community history, a seasoned writer and editor, and a tireless educator who has dedicated her life to preserving stories and empowering others to share theirs. Recognized in 2008 as a Freeman of the City by the Mayor and Council of Mission, Sharon’s commitment to service and storytelling is both extraordinary and inspiring.
Since retiring, Sharon has embraced an active role as a writing coach and Indigenous family tree network facilitator, guiding others in tracing their heritage and penning their memoirs. Her specialties - heritage research, oral history, genealogy, and community storytelling - reflect her lifelong dedication to uncovering the untold stories of everyday people, especially women whose contributions have often been overlooked in historical records. Born and raised in Coombs on Vancouver Island, Sharon graduated from Qualicum Beach Secondary School and the University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Education degree. Her early career took her to Tanzania, East Africa, where - just 22 years old - she served as head of the English department at Iyunga Boys’ School. Returning to Canada, Sharon taught in public schools in Ontario and BC and spearheaded “Stay in School” initiatives for youth. Sharon’s commitment to community extends far beyond the classroom. Since settling in Mission in 1975, she has played a pivotal role in numerous initiatives, including co-founding the Valley Women’s Network in the 1980s and preserving the Church of the Holy Cross, a national historic site at Skatin FN (formerly Skookumchuck). Her work with the Mission District Historical Society’s Heritage Places branch led to the creation of a website showcasing profiles of historical people and places in the Mission/North Fraser area. An engaging speaker and facilitator, Sharon has volunteered extensively with groups such as the Fronya Women’s Resource Centre, Mission Transition House, and SD#75 Siwal Si’wes Aboriginal Advisory Council. She was also an inaugural member of Mission’s Cultural Resources Commission. Sharon continues to share her knowledge through monthly Coffee Chat: Tracking Indigenous Roots sessions for the BC Genealogy Society and as the volunteer leader of Family Ties: Connecting Our Generations, an Aboriginal genealogy project. Sharon has also guided the publication of numerous community anthologies, including Reflections: Our Canadian Experiences (2017) and Kaleidoscope: Small Bright Pieces (2019). As co-editor, she contributed to Spirit in the Land: Our Place of Prayers (2008) and Courage to Speak: Honouring Elders’ Voices (2019). Most recently, she co-edited Deedee's Indigenous Dream, published in February 2023. Today, Sharon dedicates much of her time to genealogy, memoir writing, and preserving the stories of the Fronya Women’s Resource Centre and Mission Transition House Society, with a goal to release a comprehensive community history for their 50th anniversary in May. A self-described “elder mother,” Sharon treasures her large extended family and hosts monthly Sunday dinners with her partner, Harold Peters. She has also ventured into social media, launching a bi-weekly blog, Words, Wisdom and Writing Tips, and an author website at www.sharon-syrette.ca, where her publications are available. For Sharon Syrette, storytelling isn’t just a passion; it’s a way to connect generations, honour heritage, and inspire others to embrace their histories and voices. Join Opening Nite Theatre for a ferociously fun adventure with Jurassic Park the Panto! Running January 10, 11, 12, 30, 31, and February 1 at the Clarke Theatre (33700 Prentis Ave.), this laugh-out-loud romp blends science, magic, and hilarity for the whole family.
Evening performances begin at 8 PM, with a Sunday matinee at 1 PM. Don’t miss out—get your tickets today at www.openingnitetheatre.com! Get ready to move, stretch, and connect as the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation presents an exciting and inclusive community event designed to promote heart health and wellness. Whether you're a seasoned athlete, a casual jogger, or simply enjoy a relaxed walk, there’s something for everyone at Step Up 4 Cardiac Health.
What to Expect:
Prizes and Competitions: Add to the excitement by competing in fun categories such as:
Event Details: February 9, 2025 @ 9:00am Abbotsford Centre Don’t miss your chance to step up for your heart and your community! For more information or to register, visit www.fvhcf.ca/stepup |
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