The Peninsula Singers of Sidney will be upping the entertainment factor with special guests at their annual spring show running May 3 to 5 at Mary Winspear.
Karel Roessingh – who has composed extensively for film, television and video productions and performed around the world – will accompany the choral group, which is also bringing dance, theatre and young musical talent to the stage.
Longtime radio personality Steve Ivings will be bringing comedic magic.
It’s all part of artistic director Lena Palermo’s goal to live up to this year’s show title: That’s Entertainment.
Palermo has curated an eclectic mix of choral music from the stages of contemporary Broadway musicals, famous Hollywood movies and beloved TV Sitcom classics.
“We are an adult show choir. The music is all memorized, but there also is choreography involved and staging elements. We really put together a show,” she said.
Included will be Welcome to the Rock, an excerpt from Canada’s popular 9/11 musical, Come From Away, where a cheery ensemble of Gander-Newfoundlanders will tell you exactly what it’s like to ‘be an Islander.’
The choir has also invited Spectrum Secondary to perform the School of Rock, and welcomes the return of the Stages Dance Company with a performance of I’m Just Ken from Barbie.
“It’s a journey of joy and laughter and fun,” Palermo said.
Roessingh’s extensive talents as a composer, arranger and producer will cater well to the diversity of the programming and they are excited to have him on board, Palermo added.
“His expertise in the different musical genres of rock, pop, classical and jazz is the perfect accompaniment for our That’s Entertainment program,” she said.
The professional show band also includes Terry Erksine, percussion; Gerry Klassen, bass; Ryan Lainchbury, guitar; Jessica Natale Woollard, violin.
One thing’s for certain. If you’re looking for a night of variety and entertainment, this show promises to be just that.
Tickets are $35 adults/$18 children through marywinspear.ca or calling 250-656-0272.
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Lena Palermo
