Centrestage — Winter 22/23 Issue

FOR THE LOVE OF THE ARTS

The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre is located in downtown St. Catharines, Ontario at the corner of St. Paul and Carlisle Streets on the shared traditional lands of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Neutral Peoples and many other Indigenous People from across Turtle Island. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement. We offer our sincere gratitude and respect to the original and continued stewards of this land and are reminded that our great standard of living is directly related to the resources and friendship of Indigenous Peoples.

We also acknowledge Indigenous, Black, other Racialized Communities and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People who have been marginalized for centuries and more — and our collective responsibility to take action for a better world free from oppression, discrimination and racism.

Photo Credit: City of St. Catharines

contents

MEET THE BOARD

Meet the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre’s Board of Directors.

CALENDAR AT A GLANCE

Discover 50+ music, theatre, comedy, dance, circus, family performances and special events!

BOX OFFICE INFORMATION

Everything you need to know about ordering tickets and visiting the PAC.

FUTURE FORWARD

Learn more about the PAC’s journey ahead.

MEET COLLEEN SMITH

Get to know the PAC’s CEO.

LET IT GLOW!

Celebrate the magic of winter in downtown St. Catharines.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Warm up your winter with the PAC’s family-friendly lineup of shows.

GROWING THE ARTS TOGETHER

Meet our 23 partner organizations.

250 St. Paul Steet St. Catharines ON Canada L2R 3M2 firstontariopac.ca Box Office 905-688-0722

FOR THE LOVE OF FILM

Enjoy world-class cinema at The Film House.

ONE CITY. MANY STORIES.

Celebrating Niagara’s Black history roots.

ARTIST PROFILE

ALI HASSAN

Learn how Ali Hassan’s path to becoming one of Canada’s leading stand-up comedians led him through the kitchen.

ARTIST PROFILE JANN ARDEN

Jann Arden describes her new album Descendant as ‘organic and whimsical’.

ARTIST PROFILE MARDI GRAS MAMBO

The sounds of New Orleans are coming to St. Catharines!

ARTIST PROFILE NO WOMAN’S LAND

No Woman’s Land explores the extraordinary resilience and courage of Canada’s refugee women.

A SHINING LEGACY

A tribute to architect Jack Diamond and the brilliant mark Diamond Schmitt Architects has made on St. Catharines.

ON THE COVER: JON SHAW

Meet St. Catharines artist Jon Shaw whose work is featured on the cover of this issue of CentreStage.

CentreStage is a semi-annual publication of the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre (PAC) and is distributed to PAC members via Canada Post. CentreStage is also available for pickup at the PAC in downtown St. Catharines, at partner and sponsor establishments, and at select City of St. Catharines locations.

©FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, 2022.

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

I continue to be inspired by our incredible community. In January 2020 our Board officially began as stewards of this beautiful arts hub and in our first two years we all saw the importance of supporting one another during challenging times. Community, business and individual support is key to our recovery, growth and future success.

We are grateful for our partnerships and are so excited for you to be a part of our journey. Whether you are a long-time PAC member, a new seat holder or are stepping into our building for the first time to check out a film or a performance, we welcome you, and we are grateful for you. Join us as we celebrate and support the arts in Niagara together.

De Divitiis Chair, Board of Directors

FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre

We are so excited to welcome you back into our space and experience live music, theatre, dance, comedy and communal cinematic experiences. Now is finally the time for reconnection, and the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre is ready and waiting for you! The last two years have given us all a renewed appreciation for joining together in a space and being entertained. The sharing of laughter, tears and joy that no other form of entertainment can provide.

Our 22/23 program is full of unique and inspiring performers who are sure to entertain you and bring you joy. We are honoured to once again light up our stages and spaces. We can’t wait to see you!

Colleen A. Smith Chief Executive Officer

FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre

Mario

meet the board

THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS!

We wouldn’t be where we are without our volunteers. They play a critical role in our PAC family as ambassadors and friends, and we simply couldn’t do what we do without each and every one of them.

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

We are looking to expand the volunteer team – ushers, greeters, ticket takers and more! Become part of a team that cares deeply about providing exceptional arts and audience experiences.

Volunteering is fun! It’s your chance to have new experiences in the arts, meet new people, share your unique skills and talents, and so much more!

To learn more about volunteering visit firstonatariopac.ca or scan the QR code below.

MARIO DE DIVITIIS CHAIR Chief Executive Officer Ronald McDonald Charities South Central Ontario

KEN CHAN Vice President, Administration Brock University

PETER PARTRIDGE VICE CHAIR Senior Portfolio Manager & Wealth Advisor RBC Dominion Securities

CHRISTINA ATKINSON Principal, Human Resources Durward Jones Barkwell & Co. LLP (DJB)

SHELLEY CHEMNITZ Community Volunteer

CARLOS GARCIA Councillor City of St. Catharines

JOSEPH CRITELLI Owner T.H. Critelli Limited

KRISTINE DOUGLAS Director of Financial Management Services and City Treasurer City of St. Catharines

MARY JANE JOHNSON Director, Partnerships and Engagement Niagara Health

CAROL U. MERRIAM Dean, Faculty of Humanities Brock University

DAVID OAKES Chief Administrative Officer City of St. Catharines

MARK STEINMAN Community Volunteer

KEVIN TOWNSEND Councillor

City of St. Catharines

LLOYD SMITH

Chief Executive Officer

FirstOntario Credit Union Limited

upcoming events

The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre presents an annual season of curated live arts and film programs, and is home to many local arts organizations and rental events. Browse our calendarat-a-glance to find upcoming music, theatre, comedy, dance, circus, family performances and special events.

Scan the QR code below or visit firstontariopac.ca to discover our full calendar of events and to order tickets online!

DECEMBER

FirstOntario PAC presents SHAUN MAJUMDER: THE LOVE TOUR Thurs 1 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

Shantero Productions presents THE BARRA MACNEILS –AN EAST COAST CHRISTMAS Sat 3 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

Toronto All-Star Big Band presents A SWINGIN’ CHRISTMAS Sun 4 Dec 2022 | 2pm

The Recital Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents TOUT À TRAC THEATRE: ALICE IN WONDERLAND

Sun 4 Dec 2022 | 2:30pm

Partridge Hall

imPACt Education Series TOUT À TRAC THEATRE: ALICE IN WONDERLAND Mon 5 Dec 2022 | 10am

Partridge Hall

Brock University Department of Music presents BROCK BIG BAND Mon 5 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm

The Recital Hall

SHAUN MAJUMDER: THE LOVE TOUR

SING-A-LONG SOUND OF MUSIC GOWAN

HERE! HERE! W/ THE MARK LALAMA TRIO

Brock University Department of Music presents BROCK UNIVERSITY WIND ENSEMBLE

Tues 6 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents GOWAN

Wed 7 Dec | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

Yellow Door Theatre Project presents NOBODY’S CHILDREN

Wed 7 Dec – Sat 10 Dec 2022

Robertson Theatre

Niagara Symphony Orchestra presents POPS! 2: CHRISTMAS CARAVAN WITH SPECIAL GUESTS SULTANS OF STRING

Sat 10 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm

Sun 11 Dec 2022 | 2:30pm

Partridge Hall

Niagara Ballet School presents THE NUTCRACKER

Tues 13 Dec 2022 | 11am + 7pm Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents NATALIE MACMASTER & DONNELL

LEAHY – A CELTIC FAMILY CHRISTMAS Wed 14 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm Thurs 15 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

Chorus Niagara presents WELCOME CHRISTMAS Sat 17 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

John McDermott presents JOHN MCDERMOTT & FRIENDS MERRY & BRIGHT LIVE Sun 18 Dec 2022 | 3pm

The Recital Hall

Bravo Niagara! Festival of the Arts in partnership with FirstOntario PAC presents THE LEGENDARY COUNT BASIE ORCHESTRA – A VERY SWINGIN’ BASIE CHRISTMAS

Sun 18 Dec 2022 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

James & Jamesy (UK) presents O CHRISTMAS TEA: A BRITISH COMEDY Tues 20 Dec 2022 | 3pm + 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

JANUARY

FirstOntario PAC presents SING-A-LONG SOUND OF MUSIC HOSTED BY DAVID GREEN

Fri 30 Dec 2022 | 3pm

Partridge Hall

Mel Monaco presents ROCKIN’ POPPIN’ NYE WITH MEL MONACO & FRIENDS Sat 31 Dec 2022 | 6pm

Robertson Theatre

The City of St. Catharines in partnership with the FirstOntario PAC presents LET IT GLOW FREE FILM WEEK AT THE FILM HOUSE

Tues 3 Jan – Sun 8 Jan 2023

Free Film Screenings Daily 2:30pm + 6:30pm

The Film House

FirstOntario PAC presents ALI HASSAN DOES THIS TASTE FUNNY?

Tues 17 Jan 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents PIAF! THE SHOW

Thurs 19 Jan 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

NATALIE MACMASTER & DONNELL

LEAHY – A CELTIC FAMILY CHRISTMAS

THE LEGENDARY COUNT BASIE ORCHESTRA – A VERY SWINGIN’ BASIE CHRISTMAS

ALI HASSAN – DOES THIS TASTE FUNNY?

TOUT À TRAC THEATRE: ALICE IN WONDERLAND

Niagara Symphony Orchestra presents MASTERWORKS 4: GILBERT CONDUCTS DVOŘÁK

Sun 22 Jan 2023 | 2:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents HERE! HERE! W/THE MARK LALAMA TRIO W/GUESTS DANIEL ROMANO AND CARSON MAHONE

Sun 22 Jan 2023 | 4pm

Robertson Theatre

Brock University Department of Music presents RBC MUSIC AT NOON Tuesdays | 12pm

starting Tues 24 Jan 2023

The Recital Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents BALLET EDMONTON

Fri 27 Jan 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

Scan the QR code below to find the full calendar of upcoming events or online at firstontariopac.ca

imPACt Education Series PAPER CANOE PROJECTS: PROPHECY FOG, CREATED AND PERFORMED BY JANI LAUZON

Fri 27 Jan 2023 | 1pm

Robertson Theatre

FirstOntario PAC presents PAPER CANOE PROJECTS: PROPHECY FOG, CREATED AND PERFORMED BY JANI LAUZON

Fri 27 Jan 2023 | 7pm

Sat 28 Jan 2023 | 2pm

Robertson Theatre

FEBRUARY

John Golub presents JOHN GOLUB –BECAUSE I CAN TOUR

Sat 28 Jan 2023 | 2pm

The Recital Hall

Bounty Enterprises presents ABBAMANIA

Sat 28 Jan 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

SOFIFRAN and Ambassade du Mali au Canada in partnership with Brock University, Impressions De Terre, and the FirstOntario PAC present SPIRIT OF MALI THE EXHIBITION WITH STÈVE VIÈS

Wed 1 Feb to Fri 10 Feb 2023 Robertson Theatre

FirstOntario PAC presents FREEDOM! THE SPIRIT AND LEGACY OF BLACK MUSIC CURATED, DIRECTED AND STARRING BEAU DIXON

Wed 1 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE PAUL SIMON’S GRACELAND Thurs 2 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

Brock University Department of Music presents THE WALKER STRING QUARTET

Fri 3 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm

The Recital Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents JANN ARDEN Wed 8 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

BALLET EDMONTON

JANN ARDEN PIAF! THE SHOW

THE ORIGINAL WAILERS

PROPHECY FOG

FREEDOM! THE SPIRIT AND LEGACY OF BLACK MUSIC

FirstOntario PAC presents THE ORIGINAL WAILERS

FEATURING AL ANDERSON

Thurs 9 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

Niagara Symphony Orchestra presents POPS! 3: IN THE MOOD!

Sat 11 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm

Sun 12 Feb 2023 | 2:30pm

Partridge Hall

Bounty Enterprises presents HOTEL CALIFORNIA

THE ORIGINAL EAGLES TRIBUTE

Fri 17 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents HARRIET TUBMAN: WHEN I CROSSED THAT LINE TO FREEDOM W/ THE NATHANIEL DETT CHORALE

Sat 18 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents FAMILY DAY AT THE PAC MON 20 FEB 2023

CIRQUE KALABANTÉ

AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE

2pm | Partridge Hall FEMMES DU FEU – TWEET TWEET!

10am + 12pm + 2:30pm

Robertson Theatre

MARCH

imPACt Education Series CIRQUE KALABANTÉ  AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE

Tues 21 Feb 2023 | 10:30am

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents MARDI GRAS MAMBO WITH THE DIRTY DOZEN BRASS BAND + NATHAN WILLIAMS & THE ZYDECO CHA CHAS Thurs 23 Feb 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents DAKHABRAKHA Wed 1 March 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

Gallery Players of Niagara presents SILENT FILM + MUSIC NIGHT THE SCAR OF SHAME (FRANK PERUGINI, 1929) Sat 4 March 2023 | 6:45pm

The Film House

Chorus Niagara presents BEETHOVEN’S MISSA SOLEMNIS Sat 4 March 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents ELVIRA KURT & THE GIRLS NITE OUT SKETCH COMEDY TROUPE

Sun 5 March 2023 | 3pm Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents NO WOMAN’S LAND

BY JABERI DANCE THEATRE

Fri 10 Mar 2023 | 7pm

Sat 11 March 2023 | 7pm Robertson Theatre

Niagara Symphony Orchestra presents MASTERWORKS 5

INVISIBLE CITIES

Sun 12 March 2023 | 2:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents THE IRISH ROVERS Mon 13 March 2023 | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents LIGHTWIRE THEATER

THE UGLY DUCKING Sun 19 March 2023 | 2:30pm Partridge Hall

imPACt Education Series

LIGHTWIRE THEATER

THE UGLY DUCKING Mon 20 March 2023 | 10am

Partridge Hall

Find the full calendar of upcoming events online at firstontariopac.ca.

THE UGLY DUCKING HARRIET TUBMAN: WHEN I CROSSED THAT LINE TO FREEDOM

ELVIRA KURT & THE GIRLS NITE OUT

NO WOMAN’S LAND THE IRISH ROVERS

DAKHABRAKHA

Sound the Alarm presents MUSIC OF THE NIGHT

THE CONCERT TOUR

Wed 22 March 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

Bravo Niagara! Festival of the Arts presents ALEX CUBA

Sat 25 March 2023 | 7pm

Robertson Theatre

Brock University Department of Music presents SORA SINGERS

Sat 25 March 2023 | 7:30pm

The Recital Hall

APRIL

FirstOntario PAC presents HERE! HERE!

W/THE MARK LALAMA TRIO W/GUESTS SARAH SLEAN AND SLEEPY JEAN

Sun 2 April 2023 | 4pm

Robertson Theatre

FirstOntario PAC presents BIG WRECK

Wed 5 April 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE

THE BEATLES – LET IT BE

Thurs 6 April 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

Niagara Symphony Orchestra presents POPS! 4 + ROCK 2

THE MUSIC OF PHIL COLLINS & GENESIS

Sat 25 March 2023 | 7:30pm

Sun 26 March 2023 | 2:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents BACHMAN & BACHMAN

Wed 29 March 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents KID KOALA’S SATELLITE TURNTABLE ORCHESTRA

Thurs 6 April 2023 | 6pm + 8:30pm

Fri 7 April 2023 | 2pm + 6pm

Sat 8 April 2023 | 1pm + 5pm + 8pm

Gallery Players of Niagara present TAFELMUSIK

LA STRAVAGANTE!

Sun 16 April | 3pm

The Recital Hall

Scan the QR code below or online at firstontariopac.ca to find the full calendar of upcoming events

imPACt Education Series TWIN FLAMES

Wed 19 April 2023 | 10am + 12:30pm Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents THE CIRCLE: INDIGENOUS SONGWRITERS FEATURING TWIN FLAMES + SPECIAL GUESTS

Wed 19 April 2023 | 7pm

The Recital Hall

WWTL Productions presents WE WALK THE LINE

A TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH

Fri 21 April 2023 | 7:30pm Partridge Hall

Niagara Symphony Orchestra presents MASTERWORKS 6

THE RITE OF SPRING

Sun 23 April 2023 | 2:30pm

Partridge Hall

FirstOntario PAC presents JUST FOR LAUGHS ROAD SHOW

Tues 25 April 2023 | 7:30pm

Partridge Hall

BIG WRECK

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE THE BEATLES – LET IT BE BACHMAN & BACHMAN

KID KOALA’S SATELLITE TURNTABLE ORCHESTRA

TWIN FLAMES

IMPACT education series

ACCESSIBILITY

ONLINE at firstontariopac.ca BY PHONE at 905-688-0722 BY EMAIL at boxoffice@firstontariopac.ca

IN PERSON at 250 St. Paul Street, downtown St. Catharines

TICKET PURCHASING

DETAILS

STUDENT TICKETS

The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre supports eyeGO to the Arts, an innovative programme where high school students can experience the arts at a price they can afford.

HIGH SCHOOL

student ID required.

student ID required.

BE GREEN

Visit firstontariopac.ca to order your tickets online. We encourage you to send your tickets to your mobile device.

Great news! There are more than 1,000 spots in nearby downtown parking garages, surface lots and on city streets within a five-minute walk to the PAC. We recommend the multi-level covered garage on Garden Park (note that the address is 71 Carlisle St. but the entrance is off of Garden Park) with 595 spaces and 26 accessible spaces.

Parking is generally free after 6pm. Special Event parking fees are in effect when events are happening. Payment is by cash only and is paid on entrance.

become a PAC member

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW BE THE FIRST TO GET TICKETS GET ALL THE PERKS

It pays to be a PAC member! Be part of the community that supports bringing exceptional arts performances to Niagara.

65 +HST one membership per household

PAC PRESENTS 22/23 SEASON

WINTER/SPRING MEMBERSHIP*

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS:

• Save up to 25% off regular ticket prices

• Purchase up to 10 discounted tickets per show

• Bring your friends to selected events FOR FREE!

• Invitations to exclusive events

• Complimentary ticket exchanges*

• Receive two free passes to any screening at The Film House

PAC PRESENTS 22/23 SEASON

WINTER/SPRING MEMBERSHIP*

PLUS! ONE YEAR MEMBERSHIP TO THE FILM HOUSE**

PAC PRESENTS MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS:

• Save up to 25% off regular ticket prices

• Purchase up to 10 discounted tickets per show

• Bring your friends to selected events FOR FREE!

• Invitations to exclusive events

• Complimentary ticket exchanges*

• Receive two free passes to any screening at The Film House

THE FILM HOUSE MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS:

• Save $2 off entry to all films (2 tickets limit per screening)

• Receive 15% discount off concessions (excl. alcohol)

• Access to a complimentary ticket exchange.

ARTS CENTRE WINTER 22/23 firstontariopac.ca

It’s hard to believe it’s already been seven years since the PAC opened its doors and ushered in a new era for the arts in St. Catharines and Niagara. During that time, the PAC has continued to shift and evolve to reflect the changing needs of our community. Here’s a look at the journey ahead and the guideposts we’ll use along the way to reach our intended destination.

THE MANDATE THAT MAPS OUR WAY

The PAC is driven by a mandate focused on three primary pillars.

To advance the development of, and access to, arts and culture as a proud and sustainable developer, presenter, supporter and incubator of talent, creativity and knowledge building for our diverse community.

To provide infrastructure, support, growth and innovation opportunities for local and regional artists, arts workers and community organizations.

To contribute to the enhancement of a vibrant, healthy and creative downtown St Catharines.

FUTURE FORWARD 1 2 3

THE JOURNEY

RECOVER

In welcoming the return of live events, we’ll respect the need to provide accessible, diverse and supportive programming as we strengthen our PAC team and rebuild the organization.

In 2021, the creation of a new strategic plan for the PAC helped us create a vision that will carry our organization through 2024 as we address the realities of the pandemic and its effect on our industry and community. That vision falls into three primary themes:

DISCOVER

In viewing our work through a lens of learning for our artists, audiences and community, we will discover new opportunities to enhance self-awareness, empathy and knowledge-building.

OPERATE SUSTAINABLY

The shift in governance made in 2020 from operating under the management of the City to a Board of Directors allowed us to redefine our focus, diversify our revenue streams, enhance our charitable purpose and develop a healthy, sustainable organizational culture.

THE DESTINATION

• Regularly re-creating that oneof-a-kind magic that happens between artists and audiences.

• Supporting our arts community as it rebuilds and reshapes its future.

As we focus our efforts on achieving our mandate and executing the strategic plan’s objectives, we have a very clear picture of what we’re working toward. By 2024 we will be:

• Progressing along a well-charted course toward a future inspired by learning through artmaking and artistic engagement.

• Working closely with key collaborators in reimagined ways.

• Reaping the early benefits of a strong, sustainable organizational framework that’s rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility that engages with and responds to the needs and visions of our community.

Scan the QR code to download a copy of the PAC’s Strategic Recovery Plan document.

AN INTENTIONAL APPROACH TO GIVING BACK

Supporting our community has always been a priority for us and we have developed several initiatives designed to give back as well as make our city and our region stronger.

ARTS FOR YOUTH

Discounted and free tickets to youth and youth-at-risk through the ImPACt Education series.

COMMUNITY

RECOVERY

Free summer programs like “Takin’ It To The Streets” and “Fresh Air Flicks” to encourage audience return and support for downtown businesses.

INDIGENOUS RELATIONS

Celebration of Nations programming to raise awareness and take action toward Truth and Reconciliation.

SUPPORT FOR COMMUNITY

Support of local community groups and causes through The Film House screenings and panel discussions.

LOCAL ARTS SUPPORT

Free artist residencies, subsidized rental rates and artist development opportunities for local arts groups and independent artists.

Photo Credit: Lauren Garbutt

OUR VALUES

The PAC team approaches each day with a commitment to the following values: collaboration, creativity, care, culture of learning

As we build our work for and with our community, we embrace the following values as central to our existence:

• Art, artists and the creative process

• Equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility

• Knowledge building and creative exploration

• Community leadership and partnership

GIVE

JOY

Remember your first live music concert? How amazing it was to be in a room with hundreds or thousands of people singing, dancing, and entirely captivated by the artist on stage.

Over the past two years, arts education has taken a back seat with virtual learning. Artists have not been in schools. Music making has been put on hold. So many young people are waiting for their first real concert, that once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Help us make this happen by donating to the ‘Give Joy’ campaign at the PAC, where proceeds will go towards subsidized tickets for Niagara youth to experience the joy of a live performance at the PAC.

Scan to find more information on donating to our Give Joy campaign.

Visit firstontariopac.ca or call 905-688-0722 to give a gift of joy today.

There’s been no “business as usual” since her arrival at the FirstOntario PAC in May 2020, and that’s absolutely

okay with the PAC’s CEO, Colleen Smith.

MEET colleen smith

Do you recall what your first impression was when you arrived to start your new position at the PAC in May 2020?

“Well, in addition to the entire world being in a state of upheaval that spring, the PAC was in the midst of major change as well. We had an eager new Board of Directors, and I could sense a desire for transformation amongst the team. The PAC is known for outstanding programming –from The Film House to Celebration of Nations, our PAC presentation season and more – and I knew that we had a bright future ahead of us, despite it all. Even though live events weren’t taking place at that time, there was still a distinctive sense of pride for the PAC evident in everyone I connected with, reflecting the visions and dreams of all those who came together to make the centre a reality.”

How has joining the PAC team during the pandemic influenced your approach to leadership?

“I think the pandemic has really highlighted the fact that leaders in every organization need to be both strategists and humanists and intentionally focus on the kind of environment we provide for our people. In a busy, eventsbased organization, it can be difficult to find the time to focus on some of those priorities. Being forced to press pause on live events gave us the gift of time during a foundational period to take a step back and define how we wanted to work together as a team. Identifying those values, intentions, and strategies helped us map out HOW we want to work together as an organization to ensure people are at the heart of everything we do.”

At left: Colleen A. Smith, CEO, FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre addresses guests at the PAC’s First Annual East Coast Kitchen Party Fundraiser held on 15 OCT 2022. Photo Credit: Jon Lepp.

What lessons have been learned throughout the last two years that will shape the future of the PAC?

“The last two years have allowed us to really take stock of our role and our responsibility within our community. The lesson learned is that we are one agent in the greater ecology that makes where we live and work vibrant, healthy and prosperous. Working collaboratively with partners like Brock University, The City of St. Catharines, our sponsors and supporters, and local community and arts partners is, and will continue to be essen tial to deliver programs and experiences that benefit the region far into the future.”

What

makes Niagara unique in your opinion?

“I was born and raised in rural PEI and have always felt an affinity to places like Niagara that showcase such natural beauty. Similar to the Maritimes, the people and the communities here demonstrate a shared spirit of partnership and a commitment to coming together to make ‘our home’ even better. That collective mindset, combined with worldclass institutions like Brock University, Niagara College, The Shaw Festival, and so many other unique arts organizations, fuels fantastic opportunities to create, partner, and inspire.”

What are you most excited about for 2023?

“I am thrilled to have more opportunities to get to know our PAC audience better. I’ve met so many wonderful people already, and I know that even more people will return over the next year. The PAC team is ready and waiting to welcome you back! I welcome everyone to not be shy in saying hello and introducing themselves. These conversations where I get to hear about the shows you’ve loved in the past and the things that you want to see more of in the future are so important to me.”

When it comes to catching the holiday spirit, St. Catharines earns a top spot on Santa’s nice list. Here are just a few of the ways to celebrate the season.

stay for theSHOW

The PAC’s December calendar is packed with a delightful assortment of holiday programming. Here’s a selection of the fun in store brought to you by the PAC and partnering organizations.

A CELTIC KICK OFF

The Barra MacNeils’ An East Coast Christmas bring a musical potpourri of traditional family favourites gleaned from Christmas ceilidhs, midnight masses and the general festive frolic that accompanies each holiday season.

SAT 3 DEC | 7:30PM

SWING INTO THE SEASON

Prepare for A Swingin’ Christmas as the Toronto All-Star Big Band celebrates the most wonderful time of the year with swingin’ renditions of seasonal and all-time favourites from the Golden Age of Swing.

SUN 4 DEC | 2PM

NSO BRINGS THE HO HO HO

The Niagara Symphony Orchestra’s festive Christmas Caravan concert features seasonal favourites, global music-inspired classics, and original music by three-time JUNO Award nominated Sultans of String with special guests, the Laura Secord Secondary School Chamber Choir.

SAT 10 DEC | 7:30PM

SUN 11 DEC | 2:30PM

DECK THE FILM HOUSE

The Film House is serving up holiday treats for the season, including Messiah/ Complex (SAT 10 DEC at 3PM), an interactive screening of Home Alone (SAT 17 DEC at 3PM) and A Christmas Story (SAT 24 DEC at 1PM). Find the full lineup of holiday screenings at firstontariopac.ca.

A SWEET CHRISTMAS CLASSIC

Niagara Ballet School brings back a beloved tradition in its performance of The Nutcracker , a tale of a young girl’s quest to save her Nutcracker Prince that brings her to the Land of Sweets on Christmas Eve.

TUES 13 DEC | 11AM + 7PM

FESTIVE FIDDLING

Join Natalie MacMaster, Donnell Leahy and their seven children as they warmly invite you in to share in their music and experience A Celtic Family Christmas. With traditional and original songs, incredible fiddling, singing, dancing, and personal stories, this show offers a timely reminder of the simple joys of the holiday season.

WED 14 DEC | 7:30PM

THURS 15 DEC | 7:30PM

SPIRITED STORYTELLING

John McDermott’s Merry & Bright Live show brings together heartwarming stories, yuletide favourites and the angelic harmonies of special guests, including Dala

SUN 18 DEC | 3PM

A JOLLY OLD CANTATA

Celebrate one of the world’s most legendary saints as Chorus Niagara presents Welcome Christmas. Benjamin Britten’s brilliant and heartfelt St. Nicolas Cantata exudes joy and good cheer for both young listeners and young performers alike!

SAT 17 DEC | 7:30PM

JINGLE BELL JAZZ

The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra brings its explosive force to Bravo Niagara! Festival of the Arts to perform A Very Swingin’ Basie Christmas with special guest vocalist Carmen Bradford . Presented in partnership with the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.

SUN 18 DEC | 7:30PM

JAMES AND JAMESY FROM THE UK BRINGS THE FA-LA-LA-LA LAUGHS

RING IN 2023

CLASSICS & COCKTAILS IN THE FILM HOUSE

a resolution to introduce a young person in your life to the incomparable experience of a live arts or film event.

SING-A-LONG SOUND OF MUSIC

HOSTED BY COMEDIAN

DAVID GREEN

Bring the most successful movie musical of all time to life in an all-new way! With an unforgettable costume parade, interactive fun pack and countless opportunities for audience participation, kids who are used to watching this classic on the small screen will be simply blown away!

FRI 30 DEC 2022 | 3PM

COSTUME PARADE | 2PM WITH PRIZES ALL TICKETS $20

THE UGLY DUCKLING

The classic tale gets a modern twist with electroluminescent wire, cutting- edge puppetry, technology, and dance. The creative use of music ranging from classical to pop is sure to keep little toes tapping!

SUN 19 MAR 2023 | 2:30PM

ALL TICKETS $25

Learn more about the PAC’s imPACt Education Series for elementary and high school students on page 11

KID KOALA’S SATELLITE TURNTABLE ORCHESTRA

Step into a one-of-a-kind experience together that will give your crew a taste of what it’s really like to perform as a DJ. Seated at a station with a shared turntable, effects box and crate of colour-coded vinyl records, subtle lighting changes will serve as a guide to help you take turns playing along and creating your own harmonies.

THURS 6 APRIL 2023 | 6PM | 8:30PM

FRI 7 APRIL 2023* | 2PM | 6PM

SAT 8 APRIL 2023 | 1PM | 5PM | 8PM TICKETS $30 CHILDREN $25

FAMILY DAY AT THE PAC

AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE

Kids of all ages will be on the edge of their seats as they watch these daring acrobats perform to the pulsating rhythm of the djembes of Guinea in a contemporary circus and music performance showcasing the diversity of traditional African arts.

MON 20 FEB 2023 | 2PM

ALL TICKETS $25

TWEET! TWEET!

Come and be part of this magical circus performance experience about two just-hatched birds. Only 30 minutes in length, with lots of opportunities for audience involvement, this is a perfect way for caregivers to introduce toddlers and young children to the fun of theatre.

MON 20 FEB 2023

10AM | 12PM | 2:30PM

ALL TICKETS $15

GROWING THE ARTS

TOGETHER

The PAC works collaboratively with a diverse collection of local arts organizations to enhance Niagara’s arts and culture scene.

In this issue, we’re shining the spotlight on three arts organizations that call the PAC home for most of their season programming.

Find out more about programming and events by our partner organizations on their websites or visit firstontariopac.ca

101 Deweguns

Indigenous artist-run collective making 101 hand drums in recognition of the intergenerational residential school impact to help inspire others along their healing journey.

101deweguns.com

Black Owned 905

A movement designed to support and uplift black owned businesses in Niagara and surrounding areas. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Bravo Niagara! Extraordinary Concert Experiences. bravoniagara.org

Carousel Players Theatre for Young Audiences. carouselplayers.com

Chorus Niagara Niagara's premier auditioned 100-voice mixed choir. chorusniagara.org

Photo Credit: Dan Brown

NIAGARA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Niagara’s classical and contemporary orchestra of over 50 professional musicians

The NSO has been entertaining, educating, and enriching the quality of life for Niagara residents since 1948. From their home in the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, Maestro Bradley Thachuk and the NSO feature performers of national and international acclaim and showcase current Canadian composers alongside treasured classic repertoire. In addition to imaginative and diverse concerts, they offer a broad range of educational programming, including a summer music camp, and other outreach initiatives.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

In the Air Tonight, Against All Odds, Invisible Touch...this March, the NSO will reimagine the songs of Phil Collins and Genesis with a full orchestra and all-star band.

SAT 25 MAR 2023

SUN 26 MAR 2023

Learn more at niagarasymphony.com

Communication, Popular Culture and Film at Brock University

Preparing students to understand the impact of communication, media and culture on society. brocku.ca/socialsciences/cpcf

Celebrating

A

of all things funny in Niagara – ‘It’s Bloomin’ Funny!’ gardencitycomedy festival.com

Brock University’s arts campus. brocku.ca/miwsfpa

Essential Collective Theatre

Producing Niagara and Canadian playwrights. ectheatre.ca

The Foster Festival

the work of playwright Norm Foster. fosterfestival.com

Gallery Players of Niagara Intimate Chamber Music. galleryplayers.ca

Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts

Garden City Comedy Festival

celebration

Photo Credit: Steven Thachuk, guitar and Jeremy Saje, vocalist.

BRAVO NIAGARA!

Extraordinary Concert Experiences

CATCH THE BUZZ

The Grammy Award-winning Yellowjackets will fly into St. Catharines this April with the support of Bravo Niagara! Witness the magic of a band that’s continued to reinvent its signature electro-acoustic sounds for over four decades.

SAT 29 APRIL 2023 Learn more at bravoniagara.org

With a vision to elevate the creative spirit of both artist and audience, Bravo Niagara! has been treating audiences to world-class performances featuring Canadian and international artists since 2014. Mother-daughter Co-Founders Christine Mori and Alexis Spieldenner have presented and produced concerts featuring today’s leading classical, jazz, and world music artists. Bravo Niagara!’s full Spring 2023 series will be announced in January.

Matter of Black

Uplifting black voices and businesses in Niagara. facebook.com/ matterofblack

Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre

Promoting the cultural, social, and economic inclusion and well-being of all immigrants and newcomers. folk-arts.ca

Niagara Artists Centre

A member-driven collective formed by and dedicated to the working artists and community of Niagara. nac.org

Niagara Symphony Orchestra

Niagara’s classical and contemporary orchestra of over 50 professional musicians. niagarasymphony.com

Pride

Niagara Provides social activities and information for the LGBTQ+ Niagara region. prideniagara.com

SOFIRAN Supporting the Francophone immigrant community in Niagara. sofifran.org

Silver Spire United Church

A progressive church located in Downtown St. Catharines that presents a variety of arts, culture and social justice programs. silverspire.ca

CHORUS NIAGARA

Niagara’s Premier Auditioned 100-Voice Mixed Choir

It’s been 60 years since Chorus Niagara first came together as the St. Catharines Symphony Chorus. Drawing choristers from across Niagara and as far away as Hamilton and Buffalo, the Chorus performs a diverse blend of traditional and contemporary works. Led by Artistic Director Robert Cooper, C.M., one of Canada’s most influential and experienced choral conductors, their singers come from all walks of life and represent all ages. The choir’s unforgettable Christmas Flash Mob performance in the food court of Welland’s Seaway Mall in 2010 has garnered over 55 million YouTube views!

MUSIC FOR THE MIND

In honour of Mental Health Week, Chorus Niagara will delve into music as a many-faceted source of hope and healing, performing Allan Bevan’s dramatic new cantata, Perfectly Mad.

SAT 6 MAY 2023

Learn more at chorusniagara.org

Stolen Theatre

Collective

Creating and producing contemporary original theatre. stolentheatrecollective.ca

Suitcase in Point Multi-Arts Company

A multi-talented, multi-disciplinary arts organization based in downtown St. Catharines. Producers of the In the Soil Arts Festival. suitcaseinpoint.com

TD Niagara Jazz Festival

Presenting the finest Canadian and internationallyacclaimed jazz musicians. niagarajazzfestival.com

Willow Arts Community

An arts and peer organization that celebrates the therapeutic value of artistic creation and expression, peer support, social inclusion. thewillowcommunity.com

Yellow Door Theatre Projects

Musical theatre skill training and performance opportunities for Niagara’s youth. yellowdoortheatre.com

filmFOR THE LOVE OF

As a final stop on the Underground Railroad, many people who found freedom in St. Catharines went on to play an important role in shaping the city we call home today. Join us in honouring this deep community connection through these powerful performances in the months ahead.

HARRIET TUBMAN:

When I Crossed That Line to Freedom with the Nathaniel Dett Chorale

Based on recent Tubman biographies , this two-act opera tells the story of how a young girl born in slavery grows up to become a legendary conductor of the Underground Railroad. The Nathaniel Dett Chorale, Canada’s first professional choral group dedicated to Afrocentric music of all styles, provide the moving soundtrack to this heartwarming tale of two sisters who vow that nothing but death will separate them as slavery threatens to tear them apart.

SAT 18 FEB 2023 | 7:30PM

learn

more after

Make Your Way To The Museum

Visit the award-winning Follow The North Star exhibit at the St. Catharines Museum. From the personal stories of enslaved people who escaped, to the large Emancipation Day picnics that once attracted thousands to Port Dalhousie, to the St. Catharines Orioles, Ontario’s first all-Black hockey team, this permanent exhibit at the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre is an excellent way to learn more about the contributions of the Black community throughout St. Catharines and Niagara. stcatharines.ca

Take A Tubman Tour

Born and raised in St. Catharines, Rochelle Bush is the proprietor and primary guide of Tubman Tours Canada and a proud freedom seeker descendant. Rochelle’s greatgrandfather was the Minister of the Salem Chapel for a period of time when Harriet Tubman was a member. Tubman Tours Canada offers guided tours that highlight the heroic figure’s time in St. Catharines. tubmantourscanada.com

the show freedom!

From church hymnals to the blues, from jazz to rock’n’ roll, R&B and rap, we owe much of our musical history to Black culture, yet so many exceptional Black musicians were lost to history while their white counterparts gained fame. This hugely successful show featuring a company of superb Black performers and musicians shines the spotlight on the exceptional contributions of a community of artists far too often overlooked in our past.

WED 1 FEB 2023 | 7:30PM FREEDOM!

artist profile

Ali Hassan

ALI HASSAN DOES THIS TASTE FUNNY? TUES 17 JAN 2023 Get tickets online at firstontariopac.ca or call the box office at 905-688-0722. Scan the QR code below for more information.

WRITTEN BY DAVID GREEN

“For many years, it was unpaid, and then it became part of my career and my goal, my singular focus. In fact, I’ve never been more focused on anything the way I was on becoming a chef on television. The Food Network was the Holy Grail.”

Although The Food Network has yet to come calling, Ali has had his fingers in many pies and been busy building his reputation as one of Canada’s most respected entertainers as a comedian, actor, national radio host and author of the new book, Is There Bacon in Heaven?

“You know, I never got on The Food Network, but I do have these well-focused stories connected to food, my own experiences.”

Now, Ali has been able to combine the ingredients of these experiences into a recipe for laughter with his one-person show Does This Taste Funny?, the hilarious follow up to the hugely successful Muslim Interrupted Tour, that was featured at Just For Laughs.

Ali’s passion for comedy and food is clearly evident, and his hunger for success has led to him becoming one of Canada’s most prolific performers. Just don’t mention you put ketchup on your scrambled eggs, or he might cut you out of his life.

His show sheds light on the hilarious intolerances associated with food that are so unique within foodie culture.

“You must never do this; you have to do this. It’s like it’s so rigid and it’s diametrically opposed to what’s actually happening in so many kitchens.

You go to a kitchen, it’s like Greek owners, Italian chef, Sri Lankan dishwashers, Ecuadorian sous chef, you know what I mean? It’s like a United Nations back there. Obviously, all of them can swear in all these languages, but some of them could even carry-on little bits of conversation and it’s like this real place of acceptance, because “Hey, we’re all doing the same horrible job!’”

His insight into the industry, and his ability to connect his stories with his audience and bring them along into his world is something that people everywhere can relate to and enjoy.

“My whole thing has been reminding people that we have more similarities than differences.”

We might not all agree on putting pineapple on pizza, but there’s no arguing that Ali Hassan is an act not to be missed when he performs at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre on TUES 17 JAN 2023.

David Green is the Festival Director of the Garden City Comedy Festival and a recent recipient of the 40 Under 40 Business Achievement Award

Long before Ali Hassan aspired to become one of the country’s leading stand-up comedians, his main goal in life was to have his very own cooking show.

JANN ARDEN

WED 8 FEB 2023

Get tickets online at firstontariopac.ca or call the box office at 905-688-0722. Scan the QR code below for more information.

WRITTEN BY MELINDA CHEEVERS | MANAGING EDITOR FOR NIAGARA THIS WEEK

jann arden

“Just leaning back and being where you are, and not thinking about how things used to be or about ‘going back to normalcy.’ Normal is what got us into trouble to begin with,” Arden says. “It really is about patience. It’s about just being kind to each other and somehow finding balance in your life.”

As the world came to a halt, it forced the Canadian singer -songwriter, who has spent the vast majority of her adult life touring, to take a break. She had to postpone her 2020 shows after COVID-19 saw venues and performances shut down.

Working with her guitarist, Russell Broom, and producer Bob Rock, Arden used this downtime to write and record her 15th studio album. Released in January, Descendant is said to represent the previous 18 months of Arden’s life and headspace.

“We just got together a couple of days a week and wrote songs and hung out,” Arden says of her time with Broom recording in a small Calgary studio. “It was really fantastic. It was our little bit of normality… Being creative was definitely a wonderful saving grace experience.”

Arden referred to the album as one of the most organic, whimsical ones she’s written at the time of its release. “All things considered, it could have been a wrestling match to make music at all.”

The songs on her new album are about who she is and what she’s made of, offering a new beginning to an old story. She’s described it as a lesson in her own personal history, looking at it all through a kinder lens.

According to Arden, “You’re going to find new ways (to explore yourself through art) every day that you wake up. It’s just called getting older. It’s not some kind of a quest. It’s not something that you have to seek out every day. You wake up, you are

going to be served with a whole different set of circumstances, and that’s just human life. And the nice thing about that, you get obstacles, but now your bag of tricks gets bigger and deeper because of the passage of time.”

“When you’re 20, you only have so many tools in your bag that you have to cope because it’s based on experiences. And obviously by the time you’re 40, those experiences are doubled and you have more tools in your arsenal to deal with heartbreak or, you know, challenges with relationships or anxiety or depression or what you want to do with your life. And then when you’re 60, now it’s three-fold. Now you have triple those experiences. So, when I talk about recreating yourself or doing things that define who you are, I think it always comes down to having a purposeful life, having a passionate life. If you’re doing something that you’re not into, then you are wasting your time and your life.”

While songs off Descendant will be featured on her latest tour, Arden says it’s not a tour solely for this new release. Instead, the setlist is a spattering from her whole songbook. She admits that putting it together was hard, but she wanted to create something new for fans coming out to this run in smaller, more intimate venues.

“I think it is my favourite way of doing music… And it’s just much more conversational, but it spans the entirety of my career. So, there’s lots of surprises and I do a lot of weird selections off my records – sometimes things that aren’t that well known,” says Arden. “The band and I just love looking back through those archives and finding stuff that we love to do.”

Don’t miss Jann Arden when she performs in Partridge Hall as part of the 22/23 Season at the FirstOntario PAC on WED 8 FEB 2023.

Ask Jann Arden to describe the biggest lesson she learned from the pandemic, and she can sum it up in one word: patience.

artist profile

mardimambogras

Call it Fat Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Tuesday or simply, Mardi Gras. No matter which name you prefer, it’s really all about a glorious celebration of music.

WRITTEN BY DAVID DEROCCO GOBEWEEKLY.COM

From the streets of New Orleans

GRAS MAMBO on THURS 23 FEB

First up on the musical menu being served at Mardi Gras Mambo will be the internationally revered New Orleans-based collective, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Formed in 1977, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band are considered pioneers of the modern New Orleans brass band movement. From the release of their first album, My Feet Can’t Fail Me Now, the band has revolution ized the New Orleans brass band style by incorporating funk and bebop into the traditional New Orleans jazz style. From its creation, that sound has become a major influence on a generation of local musicians.

With more than a dozen albums to their credit and guest appearances on releases by artists as diverse as The Neville Brothers and Elvis Costello to Modest Mouse and Dave Matthews, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band are now revered around the globe. They gained their initial following in Louisiana before earning widespread acclaim in Europe. However, it wasn’t until the band’s set at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Montreux, Switzerland, was recorded and released in 1986 that The Dirty Dozen Brass Band attracted major-label attention, signing with Columbia Records and releasing their brilliant album, 1989’s Voodoo. The ensemble continues to win over new fans with spirited performances that showcase the unique musical hybrid they have forged through more than 40 years of live shows.

At left, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Photo Credit: Chris Monaghan.

There is no better accompaniment to the music of The Dirty Dozen Brass Band than a heaping helping of music from Na than Williams and the Zydeco Cha Chas. Growing up in a Cre ole- speaking home in St. Martinville, Louisiana, Nathan feasted on the music of Zydeco originators such as Clifton Chenier, a Cajun musician often referred to as The King of Zydeco music. Chenier was a pioneer in the combining of Cajun and Creole music with R&B, jazz and blues, a style which Williams would eagerly embrace.

The music of Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas is a family affair; the Cha Chas feature the accordion wizardry of Nathan, brother Dennis Paul Williams and his jazz-influenced guitar stylings, and eldest brother Sid ‘El Sid O’ Williams. Formed in 1985, the band immediately brought a unique take on this regional South Louisiana music to all corners of the globe.

After years of acclaim, Nathan was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2005 and was recently honoured with the Zydeco Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. The Cha Chas have been voted the top Festival Band in the country and can also claim the coveted Big Easy award as Best Zydeco Band several years running.

With two such Louisiana legends on the same bill, the Mardi Gras Mambo promises to turn Partridge Hall into a celebration worthy of Bourbon Street! Don’t forget to bring your beads!

to the big stage at Partridge Hall, that spirit of non-stop celebration comes to St. Catharines in the form of MARDI

2023, a delicious mix of music as flavourful and spicy as a traditional Louisiana gumbo.

Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Chas. Photo Credit: Rick Oliver

No Woman’s Land a JABERI DANCE THEATRE production

In 2016, Roshanak Jaberi began working with her research collaborators Doris Rajan, of the Institute for Research and Development on Inclusion and Society (IRIS), and Dr. Shahrzad Mojab, of the University of Toronto. Interviews were conducted by community facilitators with women who have come to Canada as refugees. Interpreting their tran scribed stories of displacement, trauma and migration as choreographic entry points, the choreographer shaped a testimony of survival.

While it is raw and graphic, No Woman’s Land does not re-victimize its subjects, or forward solutions. Working closely with the performers and her creative collaborators, the choreographer developed dance/theatre scenarios that evoke inner dimensions of refugee women’s narratives. The work unfolds in imagistic, episodic form, in scenes that are by turns harrowing and astonishingly celebratory. Vocal expression is a strong filament through the work, and the performers sing, shout, laugh, giving voice to joy, resistance, desperate circumstances. The ensemble’s attunement and dynamic commitment weight the performance with conviction.

The refugee journey of No Woman’s Land is a storm-torn passage. The cast, five women and one man, are hurled into raging waters, their path forward uncertain. Throughout the piece, strongly evocative design elements combine with the forceful soundscape to enhance the ambiance as action shifts through multiple areas of the stage space. Performers regard one another, witnessing, suggesting an uneasy flux

where order does not prevail. Images conjure women in extremity, their stories punctuating the soundscape. In one, a woman recounts being taken to a notorious fourth-floor room where she was burned, then raped. And sometimes, surprisingly, women are revealed creating small domestic oases, fiercely creating refuge and solace with others.

Gravity is disturbed, a sense of centre destabilized. Displaced, the cast are literally thrown about; they partner, at times supportively, at others lifting and tossing one another, dancing with big, sometimes violent energy, scooping space, spinning, moving down into the ground, tumbling, turning upside down. Powerful women’s bodies push, punch and slash, lashing out, summoning all their strength.

Suitcases, glinting thermal blankets, silver buckets, life jack ets, swaths of fabric that conceal and suspend, garments cast off, or torn off, all wash through No Woman’s Land This drift of materiality seems to suggest that precious mementoes, treasures and belongings shift in meaning, like debris cast up on shore – and nothing matters but what is absolutely essential.

Roshanak Jaberi commented that making No Woman’s Land has entailed a constant “negotiation between the art and the politics.” Keeping the refugee women’s voices and experienc es always at the core was her artistic balance point calibrated to recognize their indomitable strength, and to shine light on how even their smallest acts can signify brave resistance. No Woman’s Land is a banner raised in their honour.

NOTES BY CAROL ANDERSON, ORIGINALLY COMMISSIONED BY DANCEWORKS; REPRINTED BY PERMISSION.

“Poetic and urgent blending of dance and politics.”

No Woman’s Land interprets experiences of refugee women, focusing an artistic lens toward their resilience and courage.

Photo Credit: Wayne Eardley.

IN MEMORIAM

A.J. Diamond

OC, OOnt, 1932-2022

Born in South Africa, educated in architec ture at the University of Capetown and Pol itics, Philosophy and Economics at Oxford University, Jack Diamond established his first architectural practice in South Africa. After teaching at the University of Penn sylvania and working with the legendary Louis Kahn he inaugurated the Master of Architecture program at the University of Toronto in 1964. From that time on Toron to was his home.

Jack Diamond’s contribution to urban reform was profound. He led the imple mentation of infill housing in Toronto to strengthen existing neighbourhoods at risk. He demonstrated the economic and soci etal benefits of transforming heritage for new uses. He illustrated low-rise alterna tives to high-rise development at compara ble land use densities. He articulated the negative impacts of low density suburban sprawl on public transit, servicing costs, social cohesion and the environment.

His skills as a draughtsman and waterc olourist were extraordinary. His passion for excellence in architecture is evidenced by numerous projects including the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto, The Foreign Ministry and the City Hall, both in Jerusalem, Israel, the Mariin sky II Opera and Ballet Hall in St. Peters burg, Russia and the Life Sciences Centre and Medical School at the University of British Columbia. Jack was a teacher, col laborator and mentor who shaped an exhil arating studio culture. A significant number of architects mentored by the office have also formed important practices in Toronto, across Canada and abroad.

He was a Gold Medalist of the Royal Archi tectural Institute of Canada, a Member of

the Order of Ontario and an Officer of the Order of Canada.

His interests and commitment extended beyond urbanism and architecture. Jack Diamond was one of 5 commissioners appointed by the Premier of Ontario to re view land use, transportation, taxation and governance in the Greater Toronto Area. He was also a Commissioner in the Ontario Human Rights Commission.

He had a great love of music and was a member of the Bach Tercentenary Festival, the International Choral Festival and a Life Trustee of the Canadian Opera Company.

One of Jack’s last works of architecture was the 2016 design for the United King dom Holocaust Memorial in Victoria Tower Gardens adjacent to Whitehall and the British Parliament in London.

The design fused his passion for human rights, social inclusion, equity and a just society with a powerful architecture that engaged the landscape and shaped a vis itor’s journey from darkness towards light. Its composition, its materiality and spatial power had a remarkable eloquence.

Images courtesy Diamond Schmitt. Photo Credits this page: Top, Jim Ryce; Bottom: Tom Arban.

“The aesthetic of the building should reflect its purpose, not the ego of the architect,” Abel Joseph “Jack” Diamond

A Shining Legacy

It is with great reverence and gratitude that the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre acknowledges the incredible life of Jack Diamond. Mr. Diamond was one of Canada’s most celebrat ed architects and the remarkably talented founder of Diamond Schmitt Architects, the firm responsible for the design of our incredible facility. Our building is a telling illustration of his impact on those he led. From his steadfast commitment to designing for both the context and the content of the building, to his passion for adaptive reuse and heritage restoration, the architectural team who helped us realize our dream of transforming St. Catharines with a world-class performing arts centre were clearly influenced by their firm’s founder.

Having architects and designers who respected the unique context of the extraordinary partnership between the City of St. Catharines and Brock University allowed us to create a performing arts centre much larger than those often found in cities our size. Hundreds of additional people enjoy our facili ty every day because of an architectural team who embraced creative solutions to support that relationship, like incorporating performance spaces that can be easily shared by Brock University students and FirstOntario PAC patrons.

The level of care taken to incorporate, conserve and transform a 19th-century industrial structure into The Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts and thoughtfully blend those heritage elements with new construction is another beautiful Diamond Schmitt fingerprint on our home. This incredible integration of old and new speaks to both St. Catharines’ rich manufacturing past and our City’s bright future as an arts and culture hub. A lasting piece of Jack Diamond will continue to shine in St. Catharines for generations to come, and for that, we are extremely thankful.

Images courtesy Diamond Schmitt. Photo Credits this page: Peter Legris.

on the cover

The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre commissioned local artist Jon Shaw to create the painting featured on this issue’s cover.

See more of Jon’s work at jonshawpaintings.com

about the artist

JON SHAW

Jon’s work documents the metamorphosis of dense urban spaces. Recreated as illustrative ink and acrylic paintings on wood, his work highlights the ongoing transformation of familiar locales, often overlooked in our daily routines.

Recent bodies of work document the demolition of the decommissioned St. Catharines General Hospital and the cluttered urban-industrial alleyways of Hamilton.

Born and raised in St. Catharines, Jon received his BFA from Mount Allison University in 2008. From 2009-2018 he worked as a full-time artist in Vancouver, BC where he produced an immense collection of colourful urban landscape paintings capturing the essence of the Downtown Eastside neighbourhood. In 2018 he relocated back to St. Catharines and continues to work with local imagery.

In reference to the painting commissioned for this issue’s cover, Jon notes “In my back-and-forth between Vancouver and St. Catharines, I noticed an obvious refresh of creative energies revitalising the downtown core. The emergence of the Performing Arts Centre was a welcomed addition and I’m honoured to capture its presence in the wake of the passing of Jack Diamond, principal and co-founder of the architectural firm who designed this beautiful facility.”

Jon’s latest project, MICROPOLIS is currently on display at the Niagara Artists Centre, 354 St. Paul Street in downtown St. Catharines until 28 JAN 2023.

Proudly Supporting the Arts

HUMAN RESOURCES ADVISORY

Big enough to know. SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE.

126 King Street

St Catharines, Ontario

(905) 684 8108

Mon Sat 10am 6pm

169 St Paul Street St Catharines, Ontario

(905) 682 7600

Mon Sat 10am 6pm