Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Fri Feb 23

Posted on January 6, 2018 by Editor

Friday February 23, 2018 at 8 pm, $15. BUY_tix_buttonBook online
The Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble returns for Black History Month! This ensemble combines the ancient rhythms of Africa with the jazz harmonies of modern times.
Waleed Abdulhamid (Composer/Band Leader) explains:  “We play melody on top of traditional jazzy chord progressions with a twist of African ancient rhythms. There is a place for African instruments such as gombri, lakoumbe, marimba in the music.”
Band members are: Waleed Abdulhamid bass,vocals, percussion; Joseph Callender soprano and tenor saxophone; John Ebata keyboard, piano, accordion; Aaron Ferrera drums, percussion; Cory Sitek alto and soprano saxophone, flute.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz, Music-World | Comments Off on Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Fri Feb 23

New Play “Static” by Kevin Land, reading,Thurs Feb 22 at 7 pm

Posted on January 6, 2018 by Editor

Thursday February 22, 2018, from 7 to 9 pm, free (call 905-543-8512). Reading of a new script-in-progress by playwright, screenwriter and director Kevin Land. Readers are: Deanna  Stevens, Martha Christianson, Aimee Kesler Evans, Janet Kompare Fritz, Greg Flis, Carlos Jiminez, John Land, Dean Rooney, Julian Nicholson, Paul Rivers.
Attentive listeners with an interest in theatre are welcome to attend. Seating is limited, call 905-543-8512 to reserve.
“Static” is a film script about a musician who has never been able to forgive himself for his responsibility in the death of his wife and six month old baby while driving home late after a gig over 25 years ago. Having rejected music, alcohol, and human connectedness in the intervening years, Mitch, now retired as a letter carrier, rents a recording studio to put down nine songs he wrote in the ten years after the accident. There he works with a trans woman who is an intern sound engineer and in the process, the two form a bond out of the redemptive, communal, and restorative nature of music.

 

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word, Special event, Theatre | Comments Off on New Play “Static” by Kevin Land, reading,Thurs Feb 22 at 7 pm

Bar closed while we hold OPEN AUDITIONS, Wed Feb 21

Posted on January 5, 2018 by Editor

Wednesday February 21, 2018. Artword Artbar will be closed to the public today. We are holding OPEN AUDITIONS for several upcoming theatre projects by Gallery on the Bay and Artword Theatre. Gallery on the Bay is seeking to fill two roles for men in 20s-30s age range. Artword Theatre doing Get Acquainted auditions for a variety of possible projects, for men and women, any age. To make an appointment for an audition, email: artword@artword.net.

Posted in Event, Special event, Theatre | Comments Off on Bar closed while we hold OPEN AUDITIONS, Wed Feb 21

The North Enders, Charly Chiarelli, Ron Weihs, Venesio deSalvo, Sat Feb 17

Posted on January 5, 2018 by Editor

Saturday February 17, 2018, 8 pm, $10. The North Enders features Charly Chiarelli on harmonica and vocals, Ron Weihs on fiddle and guitar, and Venesio DeSalvo on guitar. They will perform a variety of music from jazz and blues to rock and originals. Charly and Ron may reprise some of their new songs from their recent theatre collaboration Charly’s Piano.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on The North Enders, Charly Chiarelli, Ron Weihs, Venesio deSalvo, Sat Feb 17

The Ault Sisters, back for Valentine’s week! Fri Feb 16

Posted on January 4, 2018 by Editor

Friday February 16, 2018, at 8 pm.  $15/$10 students. Reserve email artword@artword.net or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
More Valentine treats! Treat your sweetie to some sweet harmonies! Jazz with the incredible vocal trio The Ault Sisters. Experience the joy of sweet sibling harmony from Amanda, Alicia and Alanna Ault. The trio are currently making a name for themselves in vocal jazz, a genre in which their signature and sublimely seamless vocal harmonies really shine. With Chris Bruder on piano, Tom Altobelli on bass, Jordan Snider on drums. http://aultsisters.com/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on The Ault Sisters, back for Valentine’s week! Fri Feb 16

CANCELLED:Jazz drummer David Lyttle w. Nick Morgan saxophone, Thurs Feb 15

Posted on January 3, 2018 by Editor

SHOW CANCELLED: Thursday February 15, 2018, 8 pm, $15. Drummer David Lyttle is Ireland’s most celebrated jazz musician of today. He’s the island’s only MOBO Award nominee and has made appearances in over twenty countries, including recent artist residencies in China and the U.S. Growing up in a prominent musical family in Co. Armagh, he’s gone on to collaborate with global icons of jazz and hip hop, and his latest album was described by Rolling Stone magazine as ‘one of the best listening experiences you’re likely to have all year’. At Artword he will perform his straight-ahead/contemporary originals with his band featuring the prominent Toronto alto saxophonist Nick Morgan and others. www.davidlyttle.com/

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on CANCELLED:Jazz drummer David Lyttle w. Nick Morgan saxophone, Thurs Feb 15

Soirée Frenchkiss: Amélie & Les Singes Bleus, Le R 1er, Moonfruits, Wed Feb 14

Posted on January 2, 2018 by Editor

Wednesday February 14, 2018, at 7:30 pm $10.  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Soirée Frenchkiss: A concert hosted by the Centre Français de Hamilton, with three francophone bands: Amélie & Les Singes Bleus (multi-genre band from Toronto), Moonfruits (folk duo from Québec) and Le R 1er, (a rapper from Benin via Québec). This event is part of the City of Hamilton’s Winterfest.
Amélie & Les Singes Bleus: Amélie Lefebvre, Rizaldo Padilla, Beth Washburn, Rachel Melas, Tim Shia. Do you enjoy French cabaret jazz-country-ska-mariachi-swing-torch-Motown-samba-rock and roll-trip hop?  www.alsb.ca/
Moonfruits (Alex Millaire and Kaitlin Milroy) vocals, banjo and guitar) Moonfruits’ soaring harmonies captivate listeners and celebrate common ground. Partners on and off stage, they summon music from a place where ideals and imagination intertwine. Groupe sur scène, couple dans la vie, le duo Moonfruits crée un folk qui donne voix à ses valeurs et son imaginaire. Guidées par le banjo et la guitare, les harmonies envoûtantes de Moonfruits transportent le public dans un univers qui célèbre le pouvoir rassembleur du quotidien. www.moonfruits.ca/music
Le R 1er: Rapper Le R 1er (Christian Djohossou), a nomadic spirit with a raw talent, blends rhythm and poetry. The rapper and composer merges Western sounds with the percussive world of authentic African instruments. Through the poetry of his sensitive lyrics, he creates a universe that fascinates and seduces. His title The City of 333 Saints won the Radio-Canada Trille Or award for song. Esprit nomade au talent brut, Le R 1er, de son vrai nom Christian Djohossou, mêle véritablement rythme et poésie. Le rappeur et compositeur fusionne dans un univers percussif d’authentiques instruments africains à des sonorités plus occidentales.  Video link: 

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk, Music-World | Comments Off on Soirée Frenchkiss: Amélie & Les Singes Bleus, Le R 1er, Moonfruits, Wed Feb 14

Jazz with the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, Sat Feb 10, 2018

Posted on December 26, 2017 by Editor

Saturday, February 10, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. An Artword favourite returns! Jazz with the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, featuring Chris Bruder on piano, Tom Altobelli on bass, Sean Bruce Parker on drums and bandleader Aubrey Wilson on vocals.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz with the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, Sat Feb 10, 2018

Willie P Bennett Tribute w. Barry James Payne, Rick Taylor, David Essig, and more, Fri Feb 9 at 6:30 and 9:30

Posted on December 23, 2017 by Editor

Friday February 9, 2018, two shows: 6:30 pm (SOLD OUT)
9:30 pm $25 Adv, (Call 905-543-8512 or 905-912-9083)
$30 Door for 9:30 show only
A tribute concert to the late Willie P. Bennett, icon of Canadian folk-roots scene up to his untimely death in 2008. To celebrate Willie’s legacy, Willie’s guitar player and blues man extraordinaire, Rick Taylor, teamed up with Barry James Payne from String Bone and Rant Maggie Rant to create a show celebrating the legendary folk hero. As well as performing some Willie P Bennett songs themselves, they are bringing in Bennett’s first record producer, guitar virtuoso David Essig and Juno Award winning singer-songwriter Jenny Whiteley to top the list of artists, which also include Paul Langille, Michael J. Birthelmer, and Linda McRae (from Nashville, new addition to the line-up). Plus Lynne Hanson from Ottawa will join just prior to heading on a European Tour with Lynn Miles in The LYNNeS.
Born in Toronto, Willie P. Bennett was part of the 1970s folk music scene in Canada, Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-folk, Music-roots, Special event | Comments Off on Willie P Bennett Tribute w. Barry James Payne, Rick Taylor, David Essig, and more, Fri Feb 9 at 6:30 and 9:30

Jazz double bill: Magee/D’Alves Duo + Scott Taplay Group, Thurs Feb 8, 2018

Posted on December 22, 2017 by Editor

Thursday February 8, 2018, 8 pm $10. Jazz double bill: Magee/D’Alves Duo: Des Magee vocals, Alex D’Alves guitar
plus The Scott Taplay Group: Scott Taplay guitar, Victor Agrippa alto sax, Jonas Pearson Paavola bass.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz double bill: Magee/D’Alves Duo + Scott Taplay Group, Thurs Feb 8, 2018

Rapper LTtheMonk (Liam Tyndall) & Friends, Wed Feb 7, 2018

Posted on December 22, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday February 7, 2018, at 8 pm, $5 students. Rapper LTtheMonk (Liam Tyndall) and some of his colleagues at Mohawk Music.  www.facebook.com/ltthemonk/

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word, Music | Comments Off on Rapper LTtheMonk (Liam Tyndall) & Friends, Wed Feb 7, 2018

Jazz double bill: Alex Fournier sextet + Dan Pitt trio, Sat Feb 3, 2018

Posted on December 21, 2017 by Editor

Saturday Feb 3, 2018, at 8 pm, $10. An exciting jazz double bill to kick off our first weekend of concerts in 2018:
Bassist and composer Alex Fournier brings his sextet Triio: Bea Labikova alto sax; Aidan Sibley trombone; Tom Fleming guitar; Ashley Urquhart  piano; Andrew Miller drums; Alex Fournier bass/compositions. Triio has been bassist/composer Alex Fournier’s main vehicle since 2013. Growing from a quartet with a book of standards to an entirely original project, the group has grown from a more casual outfit to dedicated proponents of contemporary creative music. The group can turn on a dime between intricate, composed music and total improvisational freedom. http://alexfournierplaysbass.com/

And setting up the evening is the Dan Pitt Trio: Dan Pitt guitars/compositions; Alex Fournier bass; Andrew Miller drums. The trio features compositions and improvisations composed by Dan that focus on the blend between modern music and creative/free improvisation. Dan played a few years ago at Artword Artbar, when he was a student at Mohawk. We are looking forward to seeing him again.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz double bill: Alex Fournier sextet + Dan Pitt trio, Sat Feb 3, 2018

closed Dec 17/2017 to Feb 2/2018

Posted on December 14, 2017 by Editor

Closed Dec 17, 2017 to Feb 2, 2018. First show Sat Feb 3. February events are now posted. For inquiries, email: artword @artword.net

Posted in Event, News | Comments Off on closed Dec 17/2017 to Feb 2/2018

Review of Charly’s Piano, by Brian Morton View Magazine

Posted on December 14, 2017 by Editor

“A Celebration of Spirit”
Review by Brian Morton of Charly’s Piano  in View Magazine, December 14 2017

They say it takes thirty years to become a master at something. I can confirm then, that Charly Chiarelli, the Sicilian born, North End Hamilton native, whose newest play, Charly’s Piano, opened this week at Artword Artbar, certainly has the skills to hold an audience spellbound with a yarn.

It takes a great deal of artistry; as a songwriter, an actor, a dancer, and a musician, in order to bring these poignant memories of working at Toronto’s Clarke Institute of Psychiatry circa 1972, as a patient observer, to life on stage. Chiarelli has long been compared to the late Spalding Gray, and his funny anecdotes are similar to humourist Mark Twain, in the essential humanity of his characters. I will suggest, that Canadian writer Stephen Leacock, is a more apt comparison, filtered through Charly’s experiences growing up in the rough and ready world of north end Hamilton, and the hippy ‘counter culture’ of the late 1960s.  Continue reading →

Posted in Theatre | Comments Off on Review of Charly’s Piano, by Brian Morton View Magazine

Review: Veteran raconteur hits right notes in Charly’s Piano

Posted on December 6, 2017 by Editor

Review Veteran raconteur hits right notes in Charly’s Piano

WhatsOn Dec 5 2017 05:26 PM by Gary Smith, Hamilton Spectator

Charly Chiarelli recalls the world of 1970s Toronto in “Charly’s Piano.”

Want to go back to the early ’70s? To a time when Ian and Sylvia, Bo Diddley and Ronnie Hawkins sang at the Concord and other hallowed Toronto halls?

Coffee houses and bars were still the domain of beatniks and hippies back then. Toronto was less sophisticated than it thinks it is today. Possibilities were endless.

In 1972, Charly Chiarelli, born in Racalmuto, Sicily, but raised in Hamilton’s gritty North End, found himself wandering the streets of what was once called Hogtown.

He found an attic abode next to a Primal Scream Clinic near Kensington Market. He found a job, too, at Toronto’s prestigious Clarke Institute of Psychiatry. Called an observer, he was paid to watch patients. Memories of many of these institutionalized folk permeate his new play “Charly’s Piano.” Continue reading →

Posted in Theatre | Comments Off on Review: Veteran raconteur hits right notes in Charly’s Piano

THEATRE: Charly Chiarelli’s new show Charly’s Piano, Dec 7 to 16

Posted on October 31, 2017 by Editor

December 7 to 16, 2017. Charly’s Piano, Charly Chiarelli’s heartwarming Christmas show about how he organized a fundraiser to buy a piano for the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry in 1972. An Artword Theatre Production, directed by Ronald Weihs. Charly’s Piano is the true story about how Charly went to work as a psychiatric assistant at the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry in Toronto. The year was 1972, Toronto was full of music and hippies, and the Clarke was exploring new techniques in mental health. Charly, harmonica and all, fit right in. Pretty soon, he’s organizing a fundraiser to buy a piano for the patients to play. At first, no one signs up, but when the “Cat Lady” says she’ll sing a song, the idea takes off. Patients, doctors, nurses perform in a sell-out concert. But the story isn’t over. Charly and a patient known as “The Duchess” travel by public transit to a mansion on the outskirts of Toronto and buy the piano. And at Christmas, the piano is in the lounge, where Charly leads patients and staff (and audience) in Christmas songs and carols.
Script by Charly Chiarelli and Ronald Weihs, new songs by Charly Chiarelli on harmonica with Ronald Weihs on guitar. Produced by Judith Sandiford.

Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online.
Show times and prices:
Thurs, Fri & Sat, December 7, 8 & 9, at 8 pm, $20; Sun December 10 matinee at 3 pm, $20
Tues to Sat, December 12 to 16, at 8 pm, $20.

The Two-Show Deal: If you came out to Cu’Fu? and loved it, you are eligible for the two-show package discount. By phone only: 905-543-8512.

Posted in Event, Theatre | Comments Off on THEATRE: Charly Chiarelli’s new show Charly’s Piano, Dec 7 to 16

Bluegrass with New Cumberland, Sat Dec 2

Posted on October 31, 2017 by Editor

Saturday, December 2, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve call 905-543-8512. Back with some blazing hot bluegrass: The New Cumberland bluegrass band from London Ontario: Tom Burns vocals and guitar,  Blair Heddle vocals, mandolin and dobro, Paul Hurdle vocals and banjo, Tom Rutledge string bass, and Darrin Schott fiddle. Featuring inventive solo work, driving rhythms and three part vocal harmonies, New Cumberland’s musical integrity and joy in playing together resonates in every performance. http://newcumberlandband.com/

Posted in Event, Music-bluegrass | Comments Off on Bluegrass with New Cumberland, Sat Dec 2

Mark McNeil: Tales from Hamilton, Fri Dec 1

Posted on October 30, 2017 by Editor

Friday Dec. 1, 2017 at 8 pm, tip jar. Mark McNeil with Tales from Hamilton. Celebrated singer-songwriter and longtime Spectator reporter Mark McNeil will give you the inside scoop about the city we love. After 35 years of chronicling Hamilton, Mark knows where the bodies are buried and how to write a great song about them. Come hear about Jacko the Killer Monkey, Evelyn Dick, Rocco Perri, Einstein’s Brain, and many other twisted tales from the “biggest small town on the planet.” Joining him will be harmonica virtuoso Les Smith and tuba wizard Jay Burr. Les, who is also an incredible songwriter and heads the Hamilton Regional Songwriters Group, will do an opening set.

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter, Storytelling | Comments Off on Mark McNeil: Tales from Hamilton, Fri Dec 1

CANCELLED Dance showcase, Wed-Thur, Nov 29-30

Posted on October 30, 2017 by Editor

CANCELLED Wed & Thurs, November 29 & 30, 2017, 8 pm, $10. The Dance Showcase is not able to go ahead as planned.

Posted in Dance, Event | Comments Off on CANCELLED Dance showcase, Wed-Thur, Nov 29-30

Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Sat Nov 25

Posted on October 29, 2017 by Editor

Saturday November 25, 2017 at 8 pm, $15. The Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble returns! This ensemble combines the ancient rhythms of Africa with the jazz harmonies of modern times. Waleed Abdulhamid (Composer/Band Leader) explains:  “We play melody on top of traditional jazzy chord progressions with a twist of African ancient rhythms. There is a place for African instruments such as gombri, lakoumbe, marimba in the music.”
Band members are: Waleed Abdulhamid bass,vocals, percussion; Joseph Callender soprano and tenor saxophone; John Ebata keyboard, piano, accordion; Aaron Ferrera drums, percussion; Cory Sitek alto and soprano saxophone, flute.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Music-World | Comments Off on Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Sat Nov 25

The Amy Project, stories/songs of Amy Winehouse Fri Nov 24

Posted on October 28, 2017 by Editor

Friday November 24, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. The Amy Project is a musical and storied journey outlining the short but tragic life of Amy Winehouse, the late British soul, blues and jazz singer. The show is performed live by five talented performers: Marni Shuster as the voice of Amy,  Anthony Caradonna guitar/vocals, Ian Taylor bass/vocals, Amy DiNino piano/synth/vocals and Dominic DiNino drums.
Amy Winehouse was nominated for 63 World Music Awards and won 25 times for her songs and recordings before her death in 2011 at the age of only 27. The Amy Project performance will cover most of the songs from her two main albums Frank and Back to Black, plus many more of her other recordings, and some unreleased covers and collaborations.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-rock | Comments Off on The Amy Project, stories/songs of Amy Winehouse Fri Nov 24

Singer-songwriter Pip, with Brad Cheeseman & Jadon Haughton, Thurs Nov 23

Posted on October 27, 2017 by Editor

Thursday November 23, 2017 at 8 pm, $10/$5. Singer-songwriter Pip writes distinctive and melodic art-pop songs with jazz and world elements. He will be joined by seasoned, award-winning Brad Cheeseman on bass and young up-and-comer-to-watch Jadon Haughton on drums.  Together they will fashion interpretations of new songs from the 2017 album Twenty-Four Obscurity Mills and other songs composed by Pip.
metrophilmusic.bandcamp.com/album/twenty-four-obscurity-mills
http://bradcheeseman.com/

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-songwriter Pip, with Brad Cheeseman & Jadon Haughton, Thurs Nov 23

Timna & Dario Duo (Brazil/Argentina), Wed Nov 22

Posted on October 25, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday November 22, 2017, 8 pm, $10. Timna & Dario Duo (Timna Comedi and Darío Acosta Teich). Opening set by Euphonic.
A beautiful Brazilian voice and  Argentinian guitar come together in exquisite arrangements that combine tropical rhythms with jazzy harmonies and a touch of contemporary music. After launching their album Tabula Rasa in 2015, Timna & Dario presented it in Argentina, Brazil, Spain, France, Belgium, England, Netherlands, Israel and Palestine. Currently they are finishing their second CD called Tipo um Album, featuring songs by Chico Buarque. https://www.facebook.com/timnaydario/
“Her voice shines expressive, like fresh spring water. His guitar is clever, eloquent. A music and talent hug” (“La Gaceta” Newspaper)
Euphonic is an eclectic trio of instrumentalists: Bob Wegner on guitar, Vince Waters on drums and Geoff Ball on cello perform original songs influenced by classical, spanish, folk, ragtime and jazz.

Posted in Event, Music-Latin, Music-World | Comments Off on Timna & Dario Duo (Brazil/Argentina), Wed Nov 22

The Secrets of the Gypsy Guitar: Oleg Timofeyev and Vadim Kolpakov, Tues Nov 21

Posted on October 24, 2017 by Editor

Tuesday November 21, 2017, at 7:30 pm. $20 regular / $15 students, seniors. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online.
The Secrets of the Gypsy Guitar, a performance by the ZINGARESCA Duo: Oleg Timofeyev and Vadim Kolpakov. Oleg Timofeyev is a pioneer in the revival of the Russian seven-string guitar. Vadim Kolpakov is the celebrated Russian-Roma (Gypsy) virtuoso, who grew up in Russian Roma musical tradition. The two musicians have been exploring an intricate mix of the written legacy of Russian guitar composers with the exciting living tradition of the Russian Roma (Gypsy).

Posted in Event, Music-folk, Music-World | Comments Off on The Secrets of the Gypsy Guitar: Oleg Timofeyev and Vadim Kolpakov, Tues Nov 21

Bossa Duo Angela Turone & Chris Platt, Fri Nov 17

Posted on October 23, 2017 by Editor

Friday November 17, 2017, $10. The Bossa Duo, vocalist Angela Turone and jazz guitarist Chris Platt, perform original arrangements and interpretations of bossa nova and samba favourites, written by some of Brazil’s most venerated composers and lyricists. With Pat Collins on bass. http://chrisplattmusic.ca/          http://www.angelaturone.com/
Angela Turone, a graduate of the University of Toronto’s jazz performance Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Music-World | Comments Off on Bossa Duo Angela Turone & Chris Platt, Fri Nov 17

closed Nov 15,16 & 18: Learie performing Harbourfront Nov 16-18

Posted on October 22, 2017 by Editor

Artword Artbar will be closed on Wed & Thurs Nov 15 & 16 and Sat Nov 18. Why? Dancer/choreographer Learie Mc Nicolls has been invited by Artistic Director Mimi Beck to be part of the DanceWorks 40th Anniversary Celebration at the Harbourfront Theatre Centre in Toronto (3 nights Nov 16, 17 &18). And Judith Sandiford is performing on laptop & projector with Learie for The Night Journey. And Ron is coming along on Thurs and Sat, so we are closing Artword Artbar for those two nights (plus Wed tech/dress in Toronto).
“A stellar performance of unique works, both remounts and premieres, reflecting DanceWorks inspired presentations over the last 40 years. Featured artists include Esmeralda Enrique & Joanna de Souza (Amalgam), Holly Small & Robert W. Stevenson (Cheap Sunglasses), Learie  McNicolls (The Night Journey and Excerpt from Dancing With The Ghost), and Denise Fujiwara (Songs That Move Us).” http://www.danceworks.ca/mainstage_event/40th-anniversary/

Posted in Dance, Event | Comments Off on closed Nov 15,16 & 18: Learie performing Harbourfront Nov 16-18

SwingLine Big Band filling in for MOJO, Sat Nov 11

Posted on October 17, 2017 by Editor

Saturday November 11, 2017, 8 pm, $15. Filling in for MOJO (who had to cancel) is the wonderful SwingLine band (The Little Big Band). SwingLine began as a project organized by Darren Blundell and Urmas Soomet. The musicians of this band were originally brought together purely for the love of music with no ongoing commitment. Over time musical ties grew stronger with a desire for the group to rehearse regularly and thus the band SwingLine was born  – an inspired band playing big band standards with some soulful R&B to round things off. Band Members: Darren Blundell-sax, Urmas Soomet-bass, Shari Vandermolen-vocals, Ray Chantler-trumpet, Don Hall-sax, Pat Lundy-sax, Tom Wallace-trombone, Wayne Allison-drums, Barry Smallbone-guitar.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on SwingLine Big Band filling in for MOJO, Sat Nov 11

Jennis: Dennis Gaumond & Jen Gillmor, folk-blues, Fri Nov 10

Posted on October 17, 2017 by Editor

Friday November 10, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Back at Artword Artbar! Jennis, the delightful folk-blues duo.  Jennis brings together Guelph-based Dennis Gaumond’s original blues and folk with the diverse musical experiences of Toronto multi-instrumentalist Jen Gillmor. The unique blend of cello and dobro is augmented by the unusual sounds of the didgeridoo, custom-tuned harmonicas, flute, wah-guitar, jaw harp and wazinator.
www.jennis.ca     www.jengillmormusic.ca

Posted in Event, Music-Blues, Music-folk | Comments Off on Jennis: Dennis Gaumond & Jen Gillmor, folk-blues, Fri Nov 10

Latin Music and Poetry peña with Marcelo Puente, Thurs Nov 9

Posted on October 16, 2017 by Editor

Thursday November 9, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Join us for a special evening: a Latin Peña Trova y Poesia,
with artists: Ama Luna, Edgardo Moreno, Fito Molina, Lil America, Marcelo Puente, Nancy Reyes, Constanza Durán and a guest youth poet.
https://www.facebook.com/events/163435450911998/?ti=cl.

From Wally Brooker’s Music Notes Newsletter: “Marcelo Puente [is] one of the outstanding exponents of the “nueva cancion” tradition in this (or any) country. Marcelo Puente came to Toronto in the aftermath of the coup in Chile in 1973, bringing his songs and poetry. In the late seventies he co-founded the popular Chilean-Greek band Los Compañeros, a group of anti-fascist exiles who discovered a common musical language.” For more info: http://companero-group-international.com/

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word, Music-folk, Music-Latin | Comments Off on Latin Music and Poetry peña with Marcelo Puente, Thurs Nov 9

Water Bear (Tom Dusome and Alex T), and guests, Wed Nov 8

Posted on October 15, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday November 8, 2017, tip jar. Our friend Tom Dusome is back with a new project — Water Bear is Tom Dusome and Alex T writing original songs that are honest, dealing with themes of autonomy, survival, and home. Some guests are on board for the evening: Babbage Industries and singer-songwriter Marie Avery.

Posted in Event, Music-folk, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Water Bear (Tom Dusome and Alex T), and guests, Wed Nov 8

String Bone (Barry James Payne), new album Love & Highways, Sun Nov 5 at 7 pm

Posted on October 10, 2017 by Editor

Sunday November 5, 2017, at 7:00 pm, $15. Early show with Barry James Payne and his String Bone band. String Bone is Americana to the bone, Canadiana in the heart and soul. Southern Ontario songwriter Barry James Payne, the architect of String Bone, has a new collection of songs and stories, Love & Highways, his second full-length recording. On Love & Highways he drives through darkness, betrayal and remorse towards love, light, escape and freedom on the road ahead. www.stringbone.ca
Opening set by singer-songwriter Michael Coughlan, now making his home in Toronto, Ontario. His debut album The Sixth Avenue Verses was produced by underground roots music genius Shannon Lyon. From a lyrical standpoint he paints in bold strokes, delivering unfettered compositions strongly rooted in story. His influences include Neil Young, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, The Replacements, Shannon Lyon, Leonard Cohen, Steve Earle, Rush, Bob Dylan, and Warren Zevon.  soundcloud.com/michaelcoughlan

Barry James Payne also performs and records with Celtic powerhouse Rant Maggie Rant Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on String Bone (Barry James Payne), new album Love & Highways, Sun Nov 5 at 7 pm

Rae Billing and her band Crybaby, Sat Nov 4

Posted on October 9, 2017 by Editor

Saturday November 4, 2017, 8 pm, $15. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online.
Alt-country songstress Rae Billing and her full band Crybaby: Rae Billing on vocals and acoustic guitar, Andrew Aldridge on guitar, Steve Koch on guitar, Greg Brisco on keys, James Henry on bass and Lucky Pete Lambert on drums. (Photo by Mike Cameron). http://www.raebilling.com/
PLUS an opening set by jazz-pop duo Union and Kay (Sheena Kay and Chris Nyugen).

Posted in Event, Music-country | Comments Off on Rae Billing and her band Crybaby, Sat Nov 4

Cootes Paradise six-member roots band, Fri Nov. 3

Posted on October 7, 2017 by Editor

Friday November 3, 2017, 8 pm, $15. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online.
The powerhouse band of familiar faces returns to Artword Artbar: Cootes Paradise, a collective of six musicians who chose to play together, combining their many talents. Their music is roots-based: bluesy, funky, and filled with soul. Band members are: Amy Di Nino (drums), Wayne Krawchuk (guitar/vocals), Sue Leonard (vocals), Lily Sazz (keyboards/vocals), Ian Taylor (bass), Mark Volkov (flute, violin, sax).
http://www.cootesparadiseband.ca/
Opening set by singer-songwriter Michael J. Birthelmer.

Posted in Event, Music-Blues, Music-rock, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Cootes Paradise six-member roots band, Fri Nov. 3

RADIO Dial Trio (Stuart Laughton, Rebecca Campbell, Martin Worthy), Thurs Nov. 2

Posted on October 6, 2017 by Editor
Thursday November 2, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Stuart Laughton’s RADIO DIAL band performs for the first time as an acoustic trio. Stuart Laughton (vocals + many instruments), Rebecca Campbell (vocals) and Martin Worthy (guitar, drums, vocals) bring you an evening of beautiful vocal and instrumental harmonies.  www.radiodial.ca
The Trio will be joined by rising star Jeff McLeod on piano and B3 organ. (http://jeffmcleodmusic.com).
What is Radio Dial? Stuart scours the radio waves for interesting music, and brings a similarly eclectic presentation to the stage. It helps that he sings and plays a dozen instruments, and that he injects his contagious enthusiasm into a kaleidoscopic amalgam of 1920’s Broadway, country blues and 60’s pop instrumental hits, B.B. King guitar, Moe Koffman flute and Chet Baker’s jazz trumpet, country, Celtic, rockabilly and his own songs about Canada.
Posted in Event, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on RADIO Dial Trio (Stuart Laughton, Rebecca Campbell, Martin Worthy), Thurs Nov. 2

Steel City Jazz Festival: Alto & Tenor Madness with Colleen Allen and Darcy Hepner, Sun Oct 29 at 8 pm

Posted on September 30, 2017 by Editor

The 5th Annual  Steel City Jazz Festival runs from October 24 to 29, 2017, at Artword Artbar and other venues.  https://steelcityjazzfest.com/
* Sunday, October 29, 2017, at 8pm, $15/$10 for students: Smordin Law Artist-in-Residence Series: Alto & Tenor Madness with Colleen Allen and Darcy Hepner. This final Steel City Jazz Festival concert features Colleen Allen alto saxophone; Darcy Hepner tenor saxophone; Adrean Farrugia piano; Pat Collins bass; Ben Wittman drums.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival: Alto & Tenor Madness with Colleen Allen and Darcy Hepner, Sun Oct 29 at 8 pm

SOLD OUT: Steel City Jazz Festival: Barry Livingston Group, Sat Oct 28

Posted on September 29, 2017 by Editor

The 5th Annual  Steel City Jazz Festival October 24 to 29, 2017, at Artword Artbar and other venues.  https://steelcityjazzfest.com/
SOLD OUT * Saturday, October 28, 2017, at 8pm, $15/$10 for students: Smordin Law Artist-in-Residence Series: Barry Livingston Group with Colleen Allen. Band members: Suba Sankaran vocals, Colleen Allen reeds, Barry Livingston piano, compositions, Kobi Hass bass, Paul Fitterer drums.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on SOLD OUT: Steel City Jazz Festival: Barry Livingston Group, Sat Oct 28

Steel City Jazz Festival, Aubrey Dayle, On Topic Trio, Fri Oct 27

Posted on September 28, 2017 by Editor

The 5th Annual  Steel City Jazz Festival October 24 to 29, 2017, at Artword Artbar and other venues.  https://steelcityjazzfest.com/
* Friday, October 27, 2017, at 8pm, $15/$10 for students: On Topic Trio: guitarist Kim Ratcliffe, drummer Aubrey Dayle, and bassist  Brad Cheeseman. Drum clinic with Aubrey Dayle at 5 pm, at Artword Artbar.
NOTE: Also on the same night same time (Oct 27, 8 pm), at Mills Hardware on King Street East , 8pm, $20/$15 for students. Kalabash, with Colleen Allen.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival, Aubrey Dayle, On Topic Trio, Fri Oct 27

SCJF Speaker Series, Oct 27 5pm, Oct 28 noon, 2pm, 4pm, Oct 29 2pm

Posted on September 28, 2017 by Editor

The Steel City Jazz Festival launches a series of free talks designed to widen the conversation about how musicians make great jazz.

Friday, October 27, 5 pm, at Artword Artbar. A clinic by drummer Aubrey Dayle of On Topic Trio. He’ll be covering what it takes to be the backbone of the rhythm section.

Saturday, October 28, at Artword Artbar, three afternoon talks.
*noon: Smordin Law Artist-in-Residence Colleen Allen, with a talk on improvisation.
*2:00 pm: Adrean Farrugia (pianist and Mohawk faculty member) speaks on Music and Mindfulness. Farrugia: “Mindfulness can create a liberated space within which we can discover our own true potential as artists, and possibly even as human beings.”
*4:00 pm: Dr. John Chong speaks about some medical problems common in performing artists. He describes the latest ways to treat or prevent repetitive strain injuries, motor control problems, anxiety, depression, neuropathic pain, nerve entrapments, and stress-related disorders.

Sunday, October 29, 2:00 pm, at Hamilton Central Library. A panel discussion on the history of jazz music in Hamilton, the current state of the scene and avenues for further development. The panel includes musicians and teachers Astrid Hepner and Mike Malone and jazz venue owner Ronald Weihs.

Posted in Event, Special event, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on SCJF Speaker Series, Oct 27 5pm, Oct 28 noon, 2pm, 4pm, Oct 29 2pm

Steel City Jazz Festival: Alex Pangman & her Alleycats, Thurs Oct 26

Posted on September 27, 2017 by Editor

The 5th Annual  Steel City Jazz Festival October 24 to 29, 2017, at Artword Artbar and other venues.  https://steelcityjazzfest.com/
* Thursday, October 26, 2017, at 8pm, $15/$10 for students: Alex Pangman and her Alley Cats: Alex Pangman vocals; Peter Hill piano; Chris Banks double bass; John Macleod cornet.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival: Alex Pangman & her Alleycats, Thurs Oct 26

Steel City Jazz Festival: Adrean Farrugia Trio, w. Drew Jurecka, Wed Oct 25

Posted on September 26, 2017 by Editor

The 5th Annual  Steel City Jazz Festival October 24 to 29, 2017, at Artword Artbar and other venues.  https://steelcityjazzfest.com/
* Wednesday, October 25, 2017, at 8pm, $15/$10 for students: Adrean Farrugia Trio  featuring violinist Drew Jurecka with Clark Johnston on bass.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival: Adrean Farrugia Trio, w. Drew Jurecka, Wed Oct 25

Steel City Jazz Festival: Colleen Allen Quartet, Tues Oct 24

Posted on September 25, 2017 by Editor

The 5th Annual  Steel City Jazz Festival October 24 to 29, 2017, at Artword Artbar and other venues.  https://steelcityjazzfest.com/
* Tuesday October 24, 2017, at 8pm, $15/$10 for students: Smordin Law Artist-in-Residence Series: Colleen Allen Quartet: Colleen Allen saxes; Adrean Farrugia piano; Mike Downes bass; Ben Wittman drums. Also featuring Geneviève Marentette on vocals.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival: Colleen Allen Quartet, Tues Oct 24

The Sandplains Pickers (Ian Bell, the Schotts, Shane Cook, Matt Rait), Sat Oct 21

Posted on September 22, 2017 by Editor

Saturday, October 21, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online.
The Sandplains Pickers are a new stringband from Southwestern Ontario, with musical styles ranging from old-time country and folk to western swing, and some blazing fiddle tunes. The band members are:
– Country and bluegrass favourites Darrin Schott on mandolin, fiddle, vocals, and Alison Schott on guitar, ukulele, vocals.
– Veteran singer and songwriter Ian Bell, on guitar, banjo, harmonica, concertina, bass, vocals.
– North American fiddle champ Shane Cook on fiddle and mandolin.
– Bass player Matt Rait on guitar and string bass.
They play mostly original songs by Ian, Darrin and Alison, and some songs by regional songwriters, that paint a picture of Southwestern Ontario from Backus Mill, tobacco kilns and farm kitchens to the Summer Garden dancehall, motorcycles and Port Dover fishermen. Expect some hot instrumentals that show off the virtuosic playing of Shane Cook, who is the only fiddler to have won both the Canadian and US fiddle championships, and of Darrin Schott, whose talents have led him to work with The Good Bros., Susan Aglukark, The Ennis Sister and Stompin’ Tom Connors.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-bluegrass, Music-folk | Comments Off on The Sandplains Pickers (Ian Bell, the Schotts, Shane Cook, Matt Rait), Sat Oct 21

BLUES: The Mike Almas Blues Band, Fri Oct 20

Posted on September 18, 2017 by Editor

Friday October 20, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online.
An evening of original blues with Mike Almas and his wonderful Mike Almas Blues Band. Mike is a well known and respected songwriter, guitarist, and performer in the Southern Ontario region. His ability on guitar is a force to be reckoned with. His stage presence, rapport with an audience, and sonic energy makes for a memorable night. Mike Almas Band website
Band members: Mike Almas, guitar/vocals, Joanne Augustyn, vocals/percussion, Cameron Colburn, drums, Steve Hilbert, bass/vocals.

Posted in Event, Music-Blues | Comments Off on BLUES: The Mike Almas Blues Band, Fri Oct 20

Máire Ní Chathasaigh Irish harp +Chris Newman guitar, Thurs Oct 19

Posted on September 17, 2017 by Editor

Thursday October 19, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online.
Irish harper Máire Ní Chathasaigh and virtuoso acoustic guitarist Chris Newman are visiting Artword Artbar after they make a headlining appearance at the Northern Lights Harp Festival in Cornwall, Ontario on their North American tour. The duo is a celebrated partnership of “one of the UK’s most staggering and influential acoustic guitarists” (fROOTS) with “the doyenne of Irish harpers” (SCOTLAND ON SUNDAY). Their music is a breathtaking blend of traditional Irish music, hot jazz, bluegrass and baroque, spiced with striking new compositions – and what The West Australian calls “Chris’s delightfully subversive wit.” http://www.maireandchris.com
Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music, Music-World | Comments Off on Máire Ní Chathasaigh Irish harp +Chris Newman guitar, Thurs Oct 19

Jazz guitarist Chris Platt album release, Wed Oct 18

Posted on September 16, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday October 18, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. The Chris Platt Trio will be releasing their debut album, Sky Glow. Chris Platt guitar; Phill Albert bass; Mike Rajna drums. The album consists of entirely original compositions by Chris, drawing influence from Jazz, Blues, and Brazilian music. The album offers fluent melodies, understated rhythms, and a harmonic complexity, paying homage to composers Billy Strayhorn and Guinga, among many others. On the evening of the album release, Chris and his trio will play through the album in its entirety, along with some favourite jazz standards and folk tunes.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz guitarist Chris Platt album release, Wed Oct 18

Sad Boys Lit. Society, launch party for Mayami, Sun Oct 15, 6 pm

Posted on September 15, 2017 by Editor

Sunday October 15, 2017, at 6 pm, $5/pwyc. The Sad Boys Lit. Society presents: a Launch Party for Mayami. Come join the SBLS as they celebrate the release of Ben Robinson‘s chapbook Mayami, (Bird, Buried Press) a collection of poems about the rising tides. All funds raised at the door will be donated to 541 Eatery and Exchange. The evening features performances (musical and poetic) from the likes of:
Ben Robinson: Mayami is a small collection of poems written by Ben Robinson, featuring hand-painted covers. Ben Robinson published poems about potato chips, growing up with a lazy eye, and 78rpm records, among others. The Walrus called his work, “barely legible”. He has only ever lived in Hamilton, ON.  Trailer for Mayami
Timid, The Brave (Other Songs Music Co.): http://www.timidthebrave.com/
Thomas St.Clair:  https://thomasstclair.bandcamp.com/
Gareth Inkster:  https://youtu.be/UYr8vG-2fzU
Kira Moolman:  Poems in the Antigonish Review
Mark Standish:  saythisiswater poems

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Sad Boys Lit. Society, launch party for Mayami, Sun Oct 15, 6 pm

Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band, Sat Oct 14

Posted on September 13, 2017 by Editor

Saturday October 14, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online.
The renowned Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band is coming back! The band: Randal Hill mandolin and vocals; Rocky Hill guitar and vocals; Tim McDonald banjo and vocals; Owen Mahoney bass and vocals. Here they are … working hard on the shores of Lake Erie!

Posted in Event, Music, Music-bluegrass | Comments Off on Hill Brothers Bluegrass Band, Sat Oct 14

Latin American Peña w. Rosy Cervantes, Fri Oct 13

Posted on September 12, 2017 by Editor

Friday October 13, 2017, at 8 pm. $10. A Latin American Peña, an evening of music and poetry. Returning as the featured performer is Rosy Cervantes, lead singer of the band La Sana Rabia. Born in Cuernavaca, Rosy has an extensive career in Mexico where she founded La Sana Rabia in 2002, performing in blues festivals, tv shows and major venues all over the country. Her CD Lo blanco y lo negro (The dark and the light) shows her talents as a blues singer and songwriter. Accompanying Rosy is Richard Fouchaux, guitar, and Edgar Alejandro López Aguilar, violin.

Posted in Event, Music-Latin, Music-World | Comments Off on Latin American Peña w. Rosy Cervantes, Fri Oct 13

60s Folk Revival Sing-along, Thurs Oct 12

Posted on September 11, 2017 by Editor

Thursday October 12, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone (the Fall 2017 edition) returns to Artword Artbar. The 60s Folk Revival sing-along concert features Sue Peters (vocals),  Michelle Rumball (vocals), Dwight Peters (vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars) and Tony Laviola (double bass). Imagine an evening that transforms the Artword Artbar into one of the 1960s coffeehouses of Yorkville or Greenwich Village. The lyrics have meaning, the voices are true and passionate in solo and in harmony, and the music inspires the audience to join in. Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone recreates the songs of hope and social justice, messages that still resonate today. The show covers the songs of the great singers and poets including Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Ian & Sylvia, Peter Paul and Mary, and Phil Ochs. Song-sheets are provided. http://wherehaveallthefolksongsgone.blogspot.ca/

Posted in Event, Music-folk | Comments Off on 60s Folk Revival Sing-along, Thurs Oct 12

Jazz duo Beats Workin’: David Hurley + Charly Chiarelli, Wed Oct 11

Posted on September 10, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday October 11, 2017, 8 pm. $10. Beats Workin’, a duo from Kingston, returns to Artword. David Hurley on seven-string guitar and vocals and Charly Chiarelli on harmonica and vocals. They perform a variety of music from jazz, blues, rock and original. You can expect a little delicious storytelling as a side dish.

Posted in Event, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz duo Beats Workin’: David Hurley + Charly Chiarelli, Wed Oct 11

Chicken-Like Birds, country blues, ragtime, swing, Sun Oct 1, 7:30

Posted on August 19, 2017 by Editor

Sunday, October 1, 2017, at 7:30 pm, $10. Special show from BC! Country blues, ragtime and swing, by duo Jasmin Frederickson and Ari Lantela, a duo recommended to us by our friends near Salmon Arm, BC.
“Chicken-Like Birds is the combination of Ari Lantela who is known for his refined sloppy blues guitar picking and Jasmin Frederickson who plays a mean double bass.”
https://www.chickenlikebirds.com
https://chickenlikebirds.bandcamp.com/album/moving-on

Posted in Event, Music-Blues, Music-folk | Comments Off on Chicken-Like Birds, country blues, ragtime, swing, Sun Oct 1, 7:30

Charly Chiarelli’s hit show Cu’Fu? returns: Sept 28 to Oct 7

Posted on August 18, 2017 by Editor

Thursday September 28 to Saturday October 7, 2017. Charly Chiarelli‘s classic hit show Cu’Fu? (So Who Did It?), Stories of a Sicilian Family, returns to Hamilton, for a two-week run at Artword Artbar. An Artword Theatre production written and performed by Charly Chiarelli, directed and dramaturged by Ronald Weihs.
Cu’Fu?, the show that made him famous, is Charly’s hilarious and touching tribute to his crazy Sicilian family in the North End of Hamilton. His father’s bewilderment at the automatic record changer, his mother’s uncanny ability to read faces, and the unexpected reaction of both when they discover Charly is smoking “Mario Lanza”, create a portrait that is both affectionate and achingly funny.
Show times and prices:
Opening Festitalia Special, Thurs Sept 28, at 8 pm, $20
Fri & Sat Sept 29 & 30, at 8 pm, $20. Sun Oct 1 matinee at 3 pm, $20
Tues to Sat, Oct 3 to 7, at 8 pm, $20. Final show is Sat Oct 7.

Posted in Event, Theatre | Comments Off on Charly Chiarelli’s hit show Cu’Fu? returns: Sept 28 to Oct 7

Duane Rutter hosts Songwriters-in-the-Round, Sat Sept 23

Posted on August 10, 2017 by Editor

Saturday September 23, 2017 at 8 pm, $20. Duane Rutter is back hosting another wonderful Songwriters-in-the-Round evening. The participants this time are: Rae Billing, Michael J. Birthelmer, Jay Linden, Gillian Nicola and Duane Rutter.

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Duane Rutter hosts Songwriters-in-the-Round, Sat Sept 23

JAZZ: Brad Cheeseman CD Release, Fri Sept 22

Posted on August 9, 2017 by Editor

Friday September 22, 2017 at 8 pm, $10. Hamilton bassist/composer Brad Cheeseman presents music from his new album The Tide Turns. With: Robert Chapman (guitar), Kelly Jefferson (tenor sax), Sam Kogen (piano/keys), Marito Marques (drums), and special guest Adrean Farrugia (piano). The Tide Turns is Brad Cheeseman’s second full-length album, recorded after winning the Montreal Jazz Festival’s coveted Grand Prix de Jazz. The album features nine contemporary jazz tracks—eight of which are new original compositions from Cheeseman—performed by frequent collaborators Robert Chapman, Sam Kogen and Marito Marques, as well as JUNO-winning saxophonist Kelly Jefferson.
Get the album: http:// bradcheeseman.bandcamp.com/

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on JAZZ: Brad Cheeseman CD Release, Fri Sept 22

Big Dance, Little Stage, w. Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed-Thur, Sep 20-21

Posted on August 8, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday and Thursday, September 20 and 21, 2017, at 8 pm $10. Learie_BDLS_0196_cBig Dance Little Stage, our ongoing contemporary dance showcase series hosted by choreographer Learie Mc Nicolls, returns. This series provides an opportunity for dancers to showcase new work, explore improvisations, and build new collaborations. Line-up for Sept 20 & 21 so far includes dancer Tanis Sydney Macarthur performing a new work choreographed by Learie Mc Nicolls, and Jackie Pullar (of Wild Orchid Belly Dance) performing a collaborative duet of belly-dance and modern dance with Learie McNicolls. The evening also includes four spoken-word poems with dance, and an improvisation by Learie Mc Nicolls. Live visuals by Judith Sandiford.

Posted in Event | Comments Off on Big Dance, Little Stage, w. Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed-Thur, Sep 20-21

The Full Pamela (Pamela Gardner) + Michel deQuevedo, Sun Sept 17, 7 pm

Posted on August 7, 2017 by Editor

Sunday Sept 17, 2017, 7 pm, $10/pwyc. Special concert. Melodic Pixel Media presents The Full Pamela (Pamela Gardner) and Michel deQuevedo. Pamela Gardner has been described as a velvet voiced songbird with eyes that can make babies laugh and grown men cry. She performs her songs backed by an all-star band of Hamilton musicians: Chris Bruder (The Altobeelays) keys; Jon The Bassist (Bring Me The Author/the human race) bass/vocals; Cameron Draper saxophone; Adam F Carter (the human race) drums/vocals; Hanna Bech glockenspiel/vocals.

Michel DeQuevedo is best known as percussionist and multi-instrumentalist for a multitude of diverse acts. For this show, he’ll be taking center stage and presenting his original music backed by acclaimed Toronto musicians. His groovy latin-infused pop songs are delivered in both Spanish and English.

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on The Full Pamela (Pamela Gardner) + Michel deQuevedo, Sun Sept 17, 7 pm

Greg Oh, John Millard and Patricia O’Callaghan, Sat Sept 16

Posted on August 6, 2017 by Editor

Saturday, September 16, 2017, at 8 pm, $15, $10 for students. Greg Oh, John Millard and Patricia O’Callaghan met during their 6 year artistic residency at  Soulpepper Theatre. They have since then collaborated on a variety of music performances. This repertoire is a fascinating evening of stories and songs ranging from Millard’s gothic Canadian solo repertoire to O’Callaghan’s elegant and playful cabaret selections, to Greg Oh’s remarkable solo work, including remarkable stories about the world of modern orchestral piano playing.
1st set: John Millard on banjo and vocals. Greg Oh piano. New and recent songs by John Millard plus a selection of songs from the musical Ratbag by Martha Ross and John Millard. Joined by Patricia O’Callaghan
2nd set: Greg Oh performs short works by Phillip Glass and John Cage. Patricia O’Callaghan performs works by Randy Newman, Charles Ives, Leonard Cohen, Jaques Brel, Fernando Obradors, Astor Piazzolla and Divine Comedy.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-cabaret, Music-Classical, Music-Jazz, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Greg Oh, John Millard and Patricia O’Callaghan, Sat Sept 16

McCurlie, Doidge and Wiles, songs & stories, Fri Sept 15

Posted on August 5, 2017 by Editor

Friday September 15, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. McCurlie, Doidge and Wiles are an Ancaster-based trio who perform original folk rock music and great story songs, many based on Ancaster’s history. These seasoned musicians are award winning songwriters/artists who sing fabulous three part harmonies. Mike McCurlie and Bob Doidge have been making music together since their early teens. Then along came Caroline Wiles, a songwriter from Montreal. They all start playing together, harmonizing, creating a groove with guitar, mandolin and bass. They like the blend. And by now, they have a lot of songs about their hometown, and all around: the Dundas Valley, the Bruce Trail, The Hammer…
www.mccurliedoidgeandwiles.com   or   www.carolinewiles.com.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on McCurlie, Doidge and Wiles, songs & stories, Fri Sept 15

The North Enders: Charly Chiarelli, Venesio DeSalvo, Ron Weihs, Thurs Sept 14

Posted on August 4, 2017 by Editor

Thursday September 14, 2017, 8 pm. $10. The North Enders features Charly Chiarelli on harmonica and vocals. Charly has recruited his Hamilton pals Venesio DeSalvo on guitar and Ron Weihs on fiddle.  They will perform a variety of music from jazz, blues, rock and original. You can expect a little delicious storytelling as a side dish.

Posted in Event, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on The North Enders: Charly Chiarelli, Venesio DeSalvo, Ron Weihs, Thurs Sept 14

Singer-songwriters Richard Garvey, Teal Booth, John Muller, Wed Sept 13

Posted on August 3, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday Sept 13, 2017, $10. Our wandering minstrel Richard Garvey is back in town. His guests are friends Teal Booth with songs about Hamilton and life, and John Muller, singer-songwriter specializing in folk, bluegrass and flamenco, based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
http://www.richardgarvey.ca/    http://www.johnmuller.ca/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-songwriters Richard Garvey, Teal Booth, John Muller, Wed Sept 13

Jazz reunion: Chris Banks, Adrean Farrugia, Chris Lamont, Chris Gale, Tues Sept 12

Posted on August 2, 2017 by Editor

Tuesday September 12, 2017 at 8 pm, $15 reg/ $10 students. Special show! The Great Reunion Concert: Chris Banks bass, Adrean Farrugia piano, Chris Gale saxophone, Chris Lamont drums.
Adrean explains: “I ran into an old friend (bassist Chris Banks) whom I went to Mohawk College with in the early ’90’s and we thought it would be fun to do a ‘reunion show’ since the drummer we used to play with a lot while in school (Chris Lamont) is moving to Dundas in August. We would also include our sax player friend Chris Gale to complete the quartet (who was also at Mohawk during the same period).”

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz reunion: Chris Banks, Adrean Farrugia, Chris Lamont, Chris Gale, Tues Sept 12

Supercrawl Sat. events, Adam Carter, The Human Race, Brandon General, This Mad Desire, Sat Sept 9, 7 pm

Posted on August 1, 2017 by Editor

Saturday September 9, 2017, events at Artword Artbar for Supercrawl weekend:
* 7 to 10 pm, pwyc /suggested $5-$10: Melodic Pixel Media hosts a Supercrawl Saturday Songwriter Showcase: with The Human Race, Brandon General, This Mad Desire.
* the human race: A special set as a one-man-band with live-loopers and as a duo with Pamela Gardner. The Human Race is the music of Adam F Carter; melodic, heartfelt, ironic and weird. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD5drKjfXYNHoxiDw0Ct_ZQ
* My Flying Machine: Brandon P. General‘s solo project. Sad songs from the basement. Resulting in a sound that is somewhere between Ryan Adams and M. Ward. https://myflyingmachine.bandcamp.com/
* This Mad Desire:   The brainchild of Mackenzie Kristjon, This Mad Desire recently released a delightful single and music video for ‘Operators Are Standing By’. Quirky and weird, highly entertaining. https://thismaddesire.bandcamp.com/

Posted in Event, Music, Special event | Comments Off on Supercrawl Sat. events, Adam Carter, The Human Race, Brandon General, This Mad Desire, Sat Sept 9, 7 pm

Supercrawl Sat. events: Jazz Jam, Sat Sept 9, 4 to 6:30 pm

Posted on August 1, 2017 by Editor

Saturday September 9, 2017, events at Artword Artbar for Supercrawl weekend:
* 4 to 6:30 pm: Music Jam (jazz, blues R&B and other genres) organized by Stephanie Sloss, with a house band: Devon Savas on bass, Travis Meyers on drums, Kyle Simmons on guitar.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Supercrawl Sat. events: Jazz Jam, Sat Sept 9, 4 to 6:30 pm

CLOSED from August 6 to September 7, 2017

Posted on July 29, 2017 by Editor

CLOSED from August 6 to September 7, 2017. Back for Supercrawl weekend.

Posted in Event | Comments Off on CLOSED from August 6 to September 7, 2017

Mû Mbana, musician from Guinea-Bissau, Thurs Aug 3

Posted on July 24, 2017 by Editor

Thursday, August 3, 2017, at 8 pm, $15 advance/ $20 door. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Matapa World Music Series presents Mû Mbana, a multifaceted artist, singer, poet and composer, playing the simbi and other instruments.
BREAKING NEWS from Matapa!! Waleed Abdulhamid, multi-instrumentalist from Sudan, is joining Mû Mbana at this concert, along with guest appearances by Celtic harpist Ruth Sutherland, singer-songwriter Dan Medakovic.
Mû Mbana is appearing at Mariposa Festival and Mill Race Festival this summer in Ontario. Born on the island of Bolama, Guinea-Bissau, Mû Mbana grew up influenced by the music of his immediate surroundings, especially the voices and music of the Brame (Mancanha) and Bidjugu peoples. He has published ten albums and has played on many stages in Europe, Africa and America. Currently, he travels between Bissáu and Barcelona, alternating his solo work with projects collaborating with musicians such as Selva de Mar, La Locomotora Negra, the great Manu Dibango, Simão Felix, Rosa Zaragoza, Lula Pena, Jurandir Santana and Fabiana Cozza.

.

Posted in Event, Music-World | Comments Off on Mû Mbana, musician from Guinea-Bissau, Thurs Aug 3

Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial, special festival launch, Tues Aug 1

Posted on July 23, 2017 by Editor

Tuesday, August 1, 2017, 8 pm, $20. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Stuart Laughton‘s wonderful show Radio Dial is launching its summer festival season with a special warm-up show at Artword Artbar. Multi-instrumentalist Stuart Laughton and his merry band Rebecca Campbell (vocals), Martin Worthy (drums), Burke Carroll (pedal steel) and Steve Lucas (bass) share their astonishing versatility and sense of fun. Then they troop off to The Dora Keogh Irish Pub (Toronto, Aug. 8), The Kincardine Summer Music Festival (Aug. 10), Music at Fieldcote (Ancaster, Aug. 13) and The Forest Festival in Haliburton Forest (Aug. 18): http://www.radiodial.ca/gigs/
“RADIO DIAL’s excellent musicians indulge Stuart’s multiple musical personality disorder.” http://www.radiodial.ca

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial, special festival launch, Tues Aug 1

Chamber music concert by Brott Festival musicians, Sun July 30

Posted on July 22, 2017 by Editor

Sunday July 30, 2017, at 7:30 pm. $5. On the evening of Sunday, July 30, classical music will take the stage! Come join the Musicians of the Brott Festival National Academy Orchestra for a concert of intimate chamber music. Ten musicians will present music featuring flute, oboe, bass trombone and string quartet. The concert will finish with Schubert’s mesmerising cello quintet, featuring two violins, viola, cello and double bass.
Players: Dana Boyd, oboe; Guillaume Cóté, cello; Carolyn Farnand, viola; Gregory Lewis, violin; Olivier Lizette, bass trombone; Joel MacDonald, cello; Blake Martin, double bass; Christian Paquette, flute; Lev Nesterov, violin; Jessica Timmermans, violin.
Program: Mozart flute quartet and oboe quartet; McCarty piece for Bass Trombone and String Quartet; Schubert Cello Quintet. Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Classical | Comments Off on Chamber music concert by Brott Festival musicians, Sun July 30

‘Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy’ should be touring the country: review by Doreen Nicoll

Posted on July 20, 2017 by Editor

Review by Doreen Nicoll on rabble.ca

‘Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy’ should be touring the country

Doreen Nicoll, July 30, 2017

http://rabble.ca/blogs/bloggers/change-gonna-come/2017/07/langston-hughes-vs-joe-mccarthy-should-be-touring-country

There’s no doubt about it, history is cyclical. Those well versed in history see the proverbial writing on the wall. Unfortunately, those who choose to remain ignorant, or perhaps worse, those who believe they are untouchable, can set the world on a path that is well worn, all too familiar, and often dangerous.

July 29th, the curtain went down for the final time on the Hamilton Fringe production Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy: Is Poetry Subversive? Set at the height of McCarthyism when, as director Ronald Weihs writes in his director’s statement, “There was a massive effort underway in the United State to communicate a crude vision of ‘The American Way,’ and to brand ideas ‘Un-American.’ People were taught to be frightened of their own thoughts, to repress them or keep them hidden.”

During the 1920’s and 30’s, Harlem became a beacon of hope for freedom of expression to African American scholars and artists. This newfound voice was demanding civil liberties and political rights. Hughes was an integral part of the Harlem Renaissance which gave birth to jazz poetry. It was this poetry that would make Hughes a person of interest.

On March 24, 1953 James Mercer Langston Hughes, African American poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and columnist was called before the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. And so the play begins.

Republican Senator Everett Dirksen and attorney Roy Cohn originally interrogated Hughes, but Weihs successfully embodies the men in one domineering character. The interrogator, clearly Hughes’s intellectual inferior, tries unsuccessfully to get Hughes to admit his poems contain subversive political messages. Continue reading →

Posted in News | Comments Off on ‘Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy’ should be touring the country: review by Doreen Nicoll

“A fine play, well staged, with a powerful message” review by Brian Morton, Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy

Posted on July 19, 2017 by Editor

REVIEW: ‘LANGSTON HUGHES VS. JOE MCCARTHY’
at the 2017 Hamilton Fringe Festival

https://artsallydotcom.wordpress.com/2017/07/27/review-langston-hughes-vs-joe-mccarthy-at-the-2017-hamilton-fringe-festival/

Ron Weihs’ play, ‘Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy,’ now gets a full production as part of the 2017 Hamilton Fringe Festival. This two man play digs deeply into a very dark period of American History that remains shameful to us today, although with the polarization and division in the United States in the era of Donald Trump, its relevancy is clear.

The script itself is based upon actual testimony given when Harlem poet Langston Hughes was called to testify before Congress during the Communist ‘witch hunts’ of the early 1950s. Continue reading →

Posted in News | Comments Off on “A fine play, well staged, with a powerful message” review by Brian Morton, Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy

“A real gem” Review by Lyla Miklos: Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy

Posted on July 19, 2017 by Editor

“…a truly enchanting hour showcasing some of Hughes’ moving, political, and still frighteningly relevant poetry.”

2017 HAMILTON FRINGE FESTIVAL MINI REVIEW FROM CENTRE STAGE WITH LYLA MIKLOS ON 101.5 FM THE HAWK

This Fringe show was a real gem and a pleasant surprise. Writer/Director Ronald Weihs takes us back to 1953 when Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes was summoned by infamous Senator Joseph McCarthy to speak to the Senate Committee on Investigations. Combining projected pictures from the era, jazz music, movement and two amazing actors Weihs transports his audience into both a frightening and inspiring time and place. A time and place that reminds us of the fragility of our democracies as we still so easily allow ideological demagogues to take away our collective powers.

What makes this production really sing is when Learie Mc Nicolls brings to life the words of Langston Hughes. More than once the audience would burst into spontaneous applause at the end of one his powerful recitations. Not only did his voice bounce off the walls, but his feet and body were bouncing and moving all over the stage. Mc Nicolls was utterly captivating to experience and witness in this fully realized performance. The counter point to his poignant energy was the brittle intensity that Howard Jerome brought to his role as the nefarious McCarthy. Continue reading →

Posted in Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, News, Theatre | Comments Off on “A real gem” Review by Lyla Miklos: Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy

“Acting powerhouse” Review by Lori Littleton, Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy

Posted on July 19, 2017 by Editor

“top-notch actors and a unique, artful structure”

Jul 24, 2017, by Lori Littleton,  Hamilton Spectator

Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy
Artword Artbar, 15 Colbourne St. — July 25-27 at 9 p.m., and July 28-29 at 8:30 p.m.

Writer/ director Ronald Weihs has assembled an acting powerhouse for this 60-minute drama. Dora Award-winner Learie McNicolls is Langston Hughes, renowned poet of the Harlem Renaissance, and Howard Jerome is Joe McCarthy, a U.S. Senator known for his pursuit of anyone affiliated with Communism in the 1950s. The play is based on actual transcripts of Hughes’ testimony before the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations in March 1953. But this isn’t a courtroom drama and there’s no thundering climax. Instead, the play features McCarthy asking Hughes questions about his poetry. Seated, Hughes answers but then rises to narrate a poem. A skilled dancer, McNicolls artfully adds to his delivery of these poems, which punctuate issues such as workers’ rights, racism, inequality and religion. Weihs also tackles more philosophical topics such as whether a writer’s views be separated from his work. Continue reading →

Posted in Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, News, Theatre | Comments Off on “Acting powerhouse” Review by Lori Littleton, Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy

Fringe 2017: Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy, an Artword Theatre producton, July 20 to 29

Posted on June 19, 2017 by Editor

July 20 to 29, 2017. Artword Theatre participates in the 2017 Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival with a timely and sensitive piece of documentary theatre, Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy, written and directed by Ronald Weihs and produced by Judith Sandiford. Dancer-choreographer-actor Learie Mc Nicolls plays the role of Langston Hughes and character actor Howard Jerome performs as The Interrogator.
Is poetry subversive? U.S. Senator Joe McCarthy thought so. On March 24, 1953, Langston Hughes, renowned poet of the Harlem Renaissance, was summoned before the Senate Committee on Investigations. Did his poems contain communist ideas? In reply, Langston Hughes tells about his personal encounters with racism in America. The script is based on the actual transcript of his testimony, interwoven with the controversial poems, and incorporating dance, music and powerful images of the era.
Running time: 60 minutes.
Tickets: $10 + one-time Fringe button:  BUY Tickets Fringe website
Showtimes: Thu July 20: 6:30pm, Fri July 21: 9:00pm, Sat July 22: 9:00pm, Sun July 23: 8:30pm, Tue July 25: 9:00pm, Wed July 26: 9:00pm, Thu July 27: 9:00pm, Fri July 28: 8:30pm, Sat July 29: 8:30pm
[The poems by Langston Hughes are used by permission granted by Harold Ober Associates Incorporated, as agents for the Estate of Langston Hughes.]

Click here for full PRESS RELEASE pdf

Posted in Event, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on Fringe 2017: Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy, an Artword Theatre producton, July 20 to 29

Fringe 2017: Chéri, a play by Sky Gilbert, based on Colette novels. July 22-23, 28-29

Posted on June 18, 2017 by Editor

July 22-23, 28-29, 2017. The 2017 Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival at Artword Artbar Bring-Your-Own-Venue: Chéri, a play by Sky Gilbert and Dustin Peters, based on novels of French author Colette (photo). Directed by Sky Gilbert, with Peggy Mahon as Léa, an elderly ex-courtesan who is performing a musical based on her life story. The lady becomes distracted by her pianist (Dustin Peters), who reminds her of her lover from many years ago — Chéri. The play deals with issues of aging and the true nature of love.
Running Time: 50 minutes
Tickets: $10 + one-time Fringe button:  BUY Tickets Fringe website
Showtimes: Sat July 22: 3:00pm, Sat July 22: 7:00pm, Sun July 23: 3:30pm, Fri July 28: 4:30pm, Sat July 29: 2:30pm, Sat July 29: 6:30pm

Posted in Event, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on Fringe 2017: Chéri, a play by Sky Gilbert, based on Colette novels. July 22-23, 28-29

Fringe 2017: The Lost Years by Peter Gruner, July 20 to 29

Posted on June 17, 2017 by Editor

July 20 to 29, 2017. The 2017 Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival at Artword Artbar Bring-Your-Own-Venue: The Lost Years: a Renurg Production by Peter Gruner, directed by Al French, performed by Deb Dagenais and Peter Gruner.
Travel through The Lost Years… Having kids is crazy! You start out young and suddenly “wake up” old. Ben and Carly start off happy and naïve, but where will they be after their journey through parenthood? The Lost Years is the time spent raising children. For parents, parents-to-be, children or anyone in a long term relationship. A comedy from the creators of Minced, Laund-o-Mat at the End of the World, and Mommy’s Mask.
Running Time: 50 minutes
Tickets: $10 + one-time Fringe button:  BUY Tickets Fringe website
Showtimes: Thu July 20: 8:30pm, Fri July 21: 7:00pm, Sat July 22: 5:00pm, Sun July 23: 6:00pm, Tues July 25: 7:00pm, Wed July 26: 7:00pm, Thu July 27: 7:00pm, Fri July 28: 6:30pm, Sat July 29: 4:30pm.

Posted in Event, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on Fringe 2017: The Lost Years by Peter Gruner, July 20 to 29

BYOV 3 shows at Artword Artbar: Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival, July 20 to 30

Posted on June 16, 2017 by Editor

July 20 to 30, 2017. Artword Artbar is a Bring-Your-Own-Venue for three theatre projects in the 2017 Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival. Full schedule of the Festival BUY Tickets on Fringe Festival website
The productions at Artword Artbar are:
#1: The Lost Years: a Renurg Production by Peter Gruner, directed by Al French, performed by Deb Dagenais and Peter Gruner.
#2: Cheri: by Sky Gilbert and Dustin Peters, directed by Sky Gilbert, performed by Peggy Mahon and Dustin Peters.
#3: Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy. An Artword Theatre production, written and directed by Ronald Weihs, performed by Learie Mc Nicolls and Howard Jerome.

Posted in Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on BYOV 3 shows at Artword Artbar: Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival, July 20 to 30

Blue Moon Marquee, gypsy blues jazz, Sat July 15

Posted on June 9, 2017 by Editor
Saturday July 15, 2017, at 8 pm, $15/$10. Gypsy-blues jazz duo Blue Moon Marquee (A.W. Cardinal guitar, vocals and Jasmine Colette upright bass, percussion, vocals) are swinging by Artword Artbar! This authentic duo writes and performs original compositions influenced by early blues, folk roots, swing, and ragtime. This year they are playing at seven Jazz festivals across Canada (Vancouver, Victoria, Saskatoon, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Kaslo). They have also been nominated for Indigenous Group of the year for the 2017 Western Canadian Music awards. Stemming from the Badlands of the Rocky Mountain prairies, Blue Moon Marquee is a self-styled gypsy blues band. A.W. Cardinal, a Metis of Cree heritage, howls with a distinctive thick and smoky vocal while playing a jazz tinged blues guitar. Jasmine Colette, aka Badlands Jazz, is the rhythm section who not only commands the upright bass but also keeps the swing with both feet while singing harmonies. Blue Moon Marquee‘s passionate performances and smouldering onstage chemistry are their trademark.  www.bluemoonmarquee.com      https://bluemoonmarquee.bandcamp.com/

 “The spirits of Memphis Minnie, Louis Armstrong, Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz, Music-World | Comments Off on Blue Moon Marquee, gypsy blues jazz, Sat July 15

Jazz w. The Carolyn Credico Quartet, Fri July 14

Posted on June 9, 2017 by Editor

Friday July 14, 2017 at 8 pm, $10. Jazz with The Carolyn Credico Quartet: Carolyn Credico vocals, Bob Shields guitar, Clark Johnston bass, Adam Fielding drums. The Quartet will perform a variety of beautiful jazz standards, latin and pop tunes.
www.carolyncredico.com
Music video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hn9aIlhcTPQ

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz w. The Carolyn Credico Quartet, Fri July 14

Songs from musicals, w. vocalists Alyssa Giammaria and Leah Korkowski, Wed July 12

Posted on June 8, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday July 12, 2017, at 8 pm, $10 /$5. Two vocalists, Alyssa Giammaria and Leah Korkowski, recent graduates from Mohawk Music, will be sharing with you their love of songs from musicals. Their band includes: Ian Brown on piano, Jesse Martel on guitar, Aoife-Louise Doyle on backup vocals, Adam Inrig on drums, and Devon Savas on bass

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Songs from musicals, w. vocalists Alyssa Giammaria and Leah Korkowski, Wed July 12

Back to the 1780s! The WÖR band from Belgium, Mon July 10 at 7:30

Posted on June 8, 2017 by Editor

Monday July 10, 2017, at 7:30 pm, $15. SPECIAL SHOW! Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online

Matapa World Festival Series presents the WÖR band from Belgium, on a festival tour in Ontario.  The musicians: Fabio Di Meo, baritone & soprano saxophone; Bert Ruymbeek accordion; Jeroen Goegebuer violin; Pieterjan Van Kerckhoven bagpipes, musette, soprano saxophone; Jonas Scheys guitar. Back to the 1780’s! If it sounded good back then, why not today?
“Wör’s album is brilliant. It’s very exciting to hear a young band reinterpreting old manuscripts in a refreshing and new way” Sam Sweeney – BBC Radio 2 Folk Musician Of The Year 2015
With their finely textured arrangements WÖR injects new energy into 18th-century tunes from the Flanders region of Belgium. Their music shines an inventive spotlight, with a modern twist, on tunes from the manuscripts of De Gruijtters (Antwerp, 1746), Van Belle (Van Belle, 1743), De Prins (Leuven, 1781) and many more.     “They’re all astonishing musicians, coaxing fantastic sounds out of their chosen instruments. But more than this, they craft intricate and fresh arrangements for each piece.” Stephen D. Winnick – Huffington Post

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Classical, Music-World, Special event | Comments Off on Back to the 1780s! The WÖR band from Belgium, Mon July 10 at 7:30

Jazz w. the Scott Taplay Group, Sat July 8

Posted on June 7, 2017 by Editor

Saturday July 8, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Jazz with the Scott Taplay Group: guitarist Scott Taplay, Jonas Pearson Paavola electric bass and Victor Agrippa alto sax. This jazz trio performs a modern take on jazz standards and a few originals

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz w. the Scott Taplay Group, Sat July 8

Latin American Peña, w. Rosy Cervantes, music & poetry, Fri July 7

Posted on June 7, 2017 by Editor

Friday July 7, 2017, at 8 pm. $10. A Latin American Peña, an evening of music and poetry. Featured performer is Rosy Cervantes, lead singer of the band La Sana Rabia. Born in Cuernavaca, Rosy has an extensive career in Mexico where she founded La Sana Rabia in 2002, performing in blues festivals, tv shows and major venues all over the country. Her CD Lo blanco y lo negro (The dark and the light) shows her talents as a blues singer and songwriter. Accompanying Rosy is Richard Fouchaux, guitar, and Edgar Alejandro López Aguilar, violin

Posted in Event, Music-World | Comments Off on Latin American Peña, w. Rosy Cervantes, music & poetry, Fri July 7

60s Folk Revival Sing-along, Thurs July 6

Posted on June 5, 2017 by Editor

Thursday July 6, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone returns to Artword Artbar. The 60s Folk Revival sing-along concert features Sue Peters (vocals),  Michelle Rumball (vocals), Dwight Peters (vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars) and Tony Laviola (double bass). Imagine an evening that transforms the Artword Artbar into one of the 1960s coffeehouses of Yorkville or Greenwich Village. The lyrics have meaning, the voices are true and passionate in solo and in harmony, and the music inspires the audience to join in. Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone recreates the songs of hope and social justice, messages that still resonate today. The show covers the songs of the great singers and poets including Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Ian & Sylvia, Peter Paul and Mary, and Phil Ochs. Song-sheets are provided. http://wherehaveallthefolksongsgone.blogspot.ca/

Posted in Event, Music-folk | Comments Off on 60s Folk Revival Sing-along, Thurs July 6

Jeffery Straker + Andreas + Shelley Gordon, Jordan Fox, Wed July 5

Posted on June 4, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday July 5, 2017, at 8 pm, $8 adv/$10 at the door.
Singer-songwriter Jeffery Straker returns to Artword Artbar with his show Inside the Songs. His guests for the evening include Andreas: Brian Andreas & Jennifer Lockman and the duo Shelley Gordon & Jordan Fox.    www.jeffstraker.com          www.andreasband.com        shelleygordonfoxjordan.bandcamp.com/releases

Singer-songwriter-pianist Jeffery Straker performs over 100 shows per year across Canada. His tour stops range from intimate house concerts to club and theatre shows and include recent sold-out concerts with several Canadian symphony orchestras, performing his own songs. Canadian Musician Magazine has said, “Very much an artist to watch” while the Chicago Free Press has written, “Rufus Wainwright, as well as k.d. lang are among the Canadians making essential and beautiful music. Add the name Jeffery Straker to that list”.

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Jeffery Straker + Andreas + Shelley Gordon, Jordan Fox, Wed July 5

Closed Canada Day

Posted on June 3, 2017 by Editor
Posted in Event | Comments Off on Closed Canada Day

Richard Garvey, w. Teal Booth & Charlie Banjo Bean, Fri June 30

Posted on June 2, 2017 by Editor
Friday, June 30, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Richard Garvey, our favourite wandering minstrel is on the road again. He’s back at Artword, this time with two guests: singer-songwriters Teal Booth and Charlie Banjo Bean. A great start to your Canada Day weekend in town!  http://www.richardgarvey.ca/
FB event: https://www.facebook.com/events/132197854010530/
Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Richard Garvey, w. Teal Booth & Charlie Banjo Bean, Fri June 30

Guitarist Doug Murphy, psychedelic jazz fusion, Thurs June 29

Posted on June 2, 2017 by Editor

Thursday June 29, 2017, 8 pm, $10 reg / $5 students. Back for more of “It Is What It Is” — fusion psychedelic jazz featuring the far-out fabulous Doug Murphy on guitar, with Alana Gunn bass, Oscar Galbraith drums, Mike Ricci sax and flute. All original compositions, mostly by Doug himself. Also some free-form improvisations.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Guitarist Doug Murphy, psychedelic jazz fusion, Thurs June 29

Romancing the Song, w. Loretta Bailey, James Gordon, Michael Mulrooney, Sat June 24

Posted on May 22, 2017 by Editor

Saturday June 24, 2017, at 8 pm, $20.
Call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online

Robert Missen presents Romancing the Song, performed by singers Lorretta Bailey and James Gordon, with Michael Mulrooney on piano, in a tribute to the wealth of musical treasures from the Great American Songbook. Three of Canada’s foremost entertainers perform popular songs from musical theatre, films and Tin Pan Alley of the early to mid-20th century, including songs by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Hoagy Carmichael, George Gershwin, Harold Arlen, Richard Rodgers and others. Lorretta Bailey, James Gordon and Michael Mulrooney have all had lengthy and distinguished careers in concerts and theatres across Canada.
Lorretta Bailey is one of Canada’s finest musical theatre performers came to prominence as Eponine in the Toronto production of Les Miserables. She went on to perform with all of the major regional theatre companies across Canada. She is a Founding Co-Artistic Director of the Lowville Festival, the “festival of all the arts for the artist in all of us”, which is held annually in and around the historic hamlet of Lowville in north Burlington.
James Gordon, a native of Guelph, was a founder and long-time member of Tamarack, the acclaimed Canadian folk group, Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music, Special event | Comments Off on Romancing the Song, w. Loretta Bailey, James Gordon, Michael Mulrooney, Sat June 24

Artword Theatre: Seven Duets +Night Journey by Learie Mc Nicolls, June 21-23

Posted on May 21, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday to Friday, June 21 to 23, 2017, at 8 pm, $10 advance (call 905-543-8512) / $15 at door. Artword Theatre presents a Contemporary Dance Showcase, curated by dancer-choreographer Learie Mc Nicolls. The program will be repeated for three evenings.
Featured is a new work, Seven Duets, choreographed and danced by Learie Mc Nicolls with Tanis Macarthur, exploring the lifts and falls in dance that can only be done with a partner.
Learie will also perform a new version of his solo work Night Journey, choreographed to selected recorded music by solo bassist Wilbert De Joode. This work was first presented in February. Lighting and visual design by Judith Sandiford features real-time projections.

Posted in Dance, Event, Theatre | Comments Off on Artword Theatre: Seven Duets +Night Journey by Learie Mc Nicolls, June 21-23

Singer-songwriters Thom Coombes and Max Marshall, Sat June 17

Posted on May 19, 2017 by Editor

Saturday June 17, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Two folk-based singer-songwriters on tour with new material for spring 2017 are making a stop at Artword Artbar. Thom Coombes from Newfoundland and Max Marshall from Harrow, Ontario, have embarked on an 18-date eastern and central Canadian tour. This concert offers a unique juxtaposition of folk songwriting and road worn personality, as well as a wide display of fingerstyle guitar styles and techniques. “Max Marshall’s clever picking, and playful melodies lifted hearts and got toes tapping.”
www.maxmarshall.org          https://thom.bandcamp.com/

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-songwriters Thom Coombes and Max Marshall, Sat June 17

Jazzy blues & more, The Kirkendolls, Fri June 16

Posted on May 18, 2017 by Editor

Friday June 16, 2017, at 8 pm, $10/ pwyc. A return visit by The Kirkendolls, a new local band: Mark Caruana on vocals and guitar, Tom Shea on bass, Jamie Shea on guitar, and Mario Laquintana on drums. The music is a mix of music from originals to jazzy re-arrangements to soulful blues and beyond. About half of their songs are originals by Mark Caruana, who was the guitar player for Big Rude Jake in Toronto throughout most of the 90s. Later he had his own jazz trio/quartet playing in the jazz clubs in Toronto to the early 2000s. Since then he has played mostly solo for private events. He moved to Hamilton a few years ago and has put this new band together.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on Jazzy blues & more, The Kirkendolls, Fri June 16

Andrew Aldridge – Planet of the Loops, Thur June 15

Posted on May 17, 2017 by Editor

Thursday June 15, 2017, at 8 pm, $tba (call 905-543-8512). Noted guitarist Andrew Aldridge is bringing back his legendary Planet of the Loops  live at Artword Artbar with special guests: Tim Tickner, Wally Jericho, Steve Wood, Andrew Aldridge.
Join us for a night of live improvised recycling of sounds!
Anything can happen, and frequently does! Planet of the Loops was established in 1998 in Toronto and continues with Looping events in various cities with all different musicians ‘looping’ their sounds together to create an experience that’s never, um… repeated *pun*. Seating is limited. To reserve, call Artword Artbar (905-543-8512). https://www.andrewaldridgemusic.com/
Andrew explains: “In 1998 (in Toronto) I started a Collective event called Planet of the Loops. It’s an improvisational/ experimental night consisting of 3-4 players. Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on Andrew Aldridge – Planet of the Loops, Thur June 15

José Contreras + Paul Linklater, Sat Jun 10

Posted on May 16, 2017 by Editor

Saturday June 10, 2017 at 8 pm, $10. José Contreras of By Divine Right and Paul Linklater of the Pinecones bring their respective solo acts to Artword Artbar. These veteran performers thrive on thwarting the sonic convention of the strumming troubadour!
www.paullinklater.com
http://www.bydivineright.ca/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on José Contreras + Paul Linklater, Sat Jun 10

CONCERT: Cootes Paradise, Fri June 9

Posted on May 16, 2017 by Editor

Friday June 9, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
The powerhouse band of familiar faces returns to Artword Artbar:
Cootes Paradise, a collective of six musicians who chose to play together, combining their many talents. Their music is roots-based: bluesy, funky, and filled with soul. Band members are: Amy Di Nino (drums), Wayne Krawchuk (guitar/vocals), Sue Leonard (vocals), Lily Sazz (keyboards/vocals), Ian Taylor (bass), Mark Volkov (flute, violin, sax). PLUS an opening set by the noted Hamilton musician and songwriter Michael J. Birthelmer.
http://www.cootesparadiseband.ca/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-folk, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on CONCERT: Cootes Paradise, Fri June 9

Bolivian charango player Willy Rios, Thurs June 8

Posted on May 15, 2017 by Editor

Thursday June 8, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Special event! Willy Rios, master charango player from Bolivia, is visiting Artword Artbar. He will be performing with Hugo Larenas (flamenco and classical guitarist) and Daniel Emden (percussionist). The charango is the Andean traditional stringed instrument in the lute family.  www.willyrios.com
A musician for 35 years, Willy Rios began his musical career at the Masis cultural centre in Sucre, Bolivia, with the charango as his main instrument. In 1988, he travelled with the group Los Masis in South America, Europe and finally Canada, which became his adopted country. While in Montreal in 1993 he joined various musical projects and later performed internationally, in Japan, Australia and other countries. In 2008, he was invited to join the TV project The Symphony of the New World  (Ici ARTV). The same year, Cirque du soleil invited him to participate in recording the CD Totem. His last album, Para Ti, earned Willy the World Solo Artist of the Year Award at the 2016 Canadian Folk Music Awards. Willy has recorded over 15 CDs with artists in Canada and Japan.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-World | Comments Off on Bolivian charango player Willy Rios, Thurs June 8

One-Night-Only-Reunion Show: Jason Jones Unit, jazz-bluegrass, Wed June 7

Posted on May 14, 2017 by Editor

Wed June 7, 2017, at 8 pm, $10 / $5 students. The Jason Jones Unit returns to Artword Artbar for a One Night Only Reunion Show. Jason Jones guitar, Jill McKenna bass and Scott Taplay guitar, plus guest fiddle player Alanna Jenish. Bringing bluegrass and jazz influences together, this quartet plays compositions of Tony Rice, Bill Monroe and Dave Grisman to name a few! Fiddle tunes, jazz standards and classic bluegrass tunes will also be featured.

Posted in Event, Music-bluegrass, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on One-Night-Only-Reunion Show: Jason Jones Unit, jazz-bluegrass, Wed June 7

Jazz: Ted’s Warren Commission, Sat June 3

Posted on May 8, 2017 by Editor

Saturday June 3, 2017, at 8 pm. $15 / $10 students. To reserve call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Ted’s Warren Commission plays fresh, original, modern jazz. Ted Warren’s compositions draw on the history of the music while pointing to the future of it. In short, Ted’s Warren Commission is the sonic equivalent of eating cookies! Ted’s Warren Commission is: Ted Warren drums, Kim Ratcliffe guitar, Mike Malone trumpet, Mike Downes bass.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz: Ted’s Warren Commission, Sat June 3

tiny bill cody sees the devil, Fri June 2, 9 pm

Posted on May 5, 2017 by Editor

Friday June 2, 2017, at 9 pm, $10. The ever-unpredictably wonderful Tiny Bill Cody is back with a solo show:  “tiny bill cody sees the devil“, in which tiny bill cody recounts his incredible true story of seeing the devil, thinking about it too much, and then writing lots of songs. It’s the three ‘s’s: storytelling, songwriting, satan.

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter, Storytelling | Comments Off on tiny bill cody sees the devil, Fri June 2, 9 pm

Beats Workin’ duo David Hurley & Charly Chiarelli, Thurs June 1

Posted on May 4, 2017 by Editor

Thursday June 1, 2017, 8 pm. $10. Beats Workin’ is a duo from Kingston: David Hurley on seven-string guitar and vocals and Charly Chiarelli on harmonica and vocals. They perform a variety of music from jazz, blues, rock and original. You can expect a little delicious storytelling as a side dish.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Beats Workin’ duo David Hurley & Charly Chiarelli, Thurs June 1

Jazz w. Leah Korkowski and Jesse Martel, Wed May 31

Posted on May 3, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday May 31, 2017, at 8 pm, $10/ $5 students. Jazz duo from Hamilton: vocalist Leah Korkowski and guitarist Jesse Martel,  play an eclectic mix of indie, folk, pop, and jazz music. They will play some original pieces as well as arrangements of music by artists such as Bjork, Sufjan Stevens, Paramore and Peter Gabriel. Korkowski and Martel strive to push the boundaries of what just two musicians can do on stage, incorporating many different effects, sounds, and instruments.

 

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz w. Leah Korkowski and Jesse Martel, Wed May 31

Celtic duo Mairi Rankin & Ailie Robertson, Tues May 30, 7:30

Posted on May 2, 2017 by Editor

Tuesday May 30, 2017 at 7:30 pm, $15 door/ $10 adv.
To reserve in advance call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
A special concert by Celtic duo Mairi Rankin and Ailie Robertson, on tour in Canada. They are part of the Celtic band Outside Track, who played at Artword Artbar last year. Now they are doing a little tour as a duo (after a full tour with the whole band).
Mairi Rankin, from Cape Breton, one of the legendary Rankin Family, plays fiddle, sings and also step-dances up a storm.
Ailie Robertson, from Edinburgh, is one of Scotland’s leading young traditional musicians and clarsach (celtic harp) virtuoso.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-World | Comments Off on Celtic duo Mairi Rankin & Ailie Robertson, Tues May 30, 7:30

JAZZ: The On-Topic Trio (Dayle, Ratcliffe, Cheeseman), Sat May 27

Posted on April 30, 2017 by Editor

ON-TOPIC-2_c_680Saturday May 27, 2017, at 8 pm, $15/$10. Jazz with the On Topic Trio, a collaborative effort from guitarist Kim Ratcliffe, drummer Aubrey Dayle from Toronto, and bassist  Brad Cheeseman from Hamilton. Each a leader of his own solo project, the trio was formed in early 2015, and are now putting aside other musical endeavors to perform in this trio setting. In On Topic,  they have an opportunity to express themselves in an environment where it is good to relinquish some control, and work as a band. This trio, playing electric instrumental jazz influenced by artists ranging from Weather Report to Pat Metheny, will caress you, rock you, and everything in between.  https://www.presskit.to/ontopic#/media

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on JAZZ: The On-Topic Trio (Dayle, Ratcliffe, Cheeseman), Sat May 27

BLUES: The Mike Almas Blues Band, Fri May 26

Posted on April 29, 2017 by Editor

Friday May 26, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. To reserve call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
An evening of original blues with Mike Almas and his wonderful Mike Almas Blues Band. Mike is a well known and respected songwriter, guitarist, and performer in the Southern Ontario region. His ability on guitar is a force to be reckoned with. His stage presence, rapport with an audience, and sonic energy makes for a memorable night. Mike Almas Band website
Band members: Mike Almas, guitar/vocals, Joanne Augustyn, vocals/percussion, Cameron Colburn, drums, Michael Gieseking, bass/vocals.

Posted in Event, Music-Blues | Comments Off on BLUES: The Mike Almas Blues Band, Fri May 26

Roots troubadour Nudie from PEI, Thurs May 25

Posted on April 25, 2017 by Editor

Thursday May 25, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Roots troubadour Nudie returns to Artword, on tour in Ontario, from Charlottetown, PEI. Special guest is Chris Altmann on pedal steel guitar. Nudie’s authentic style of music and songwriting is captured on his 2014 album Remember This. It is the soundtrack of relationships and heartache, delivered with wit and charm, and coated in the sounds of 1960s West Coast country soul. Nudie’s latest offering, Everything’s Different In The Night (2016), is a collection of songs about relationships, and stories from the road, including “Mr. Why’d You Come To Texas”, about not knowing how to two-step, and “Train You Took My Baby”, inspired by a trip across Canada.  http://nudiemusic.com/

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Roots troubadour Nudie from PEI, Thurs May 25

Singer-Songwriters NLX, Tara Holloway, Sammi Morelli, Wed May 24

Posted on April 24, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday May 24, 2017 at 8 pm, $10. To reserve in advance call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Three singer-songwriters team up for a great night of music. NLX from Hamilton, now NY-based. Tara Holloway now back in her hometown Ottawa. Sammi Morelli  from BC.
NLX (http://www.nlxmusic.com) Raised in the icy shadows of Canada’s steel city smoke stacks, NLX hails from the proud tradition of BS-free northern songwriting women. Though her roots may be in Canada, the branches reach out towards New York City; where she wrote and recorded most of her latest offering, Luxury of Failure. Production began in an old church in Hudson, NY with nothing but a focus on microphones, drums, strings and a piano. The result was a record that took root in something really raw and tactile.
Tara Holloway (http://taraholloway.com) Tara Holloway, the power-house folk-noir and pop songwriter with the raspy voice, has a regular job driving trucks for a catering company, after two decades of cross-country touring, dive motels, and couch surfing. Two years ago, she released the plaintive and pained stunner Little Ghosts on Vancouver’s Light Organ Records. She has since parted in favour of going it on her own. Expect her new EP, out this summer, to explore the push-pull between staying put and an inherent, all-consuming wanderlust.
Sammi Morelli (http://www. sammimorellimusic.com) Sammi Morelli is an award-winning Canadian pop singer/songwriter who seamlessly blends multiple genres with her fierce voice, fresh lyrics & sticky hooks. “Sammi Morelli is a voice Canada will one day boast about,” her collaborator and mentor Laurell Barker exclaims, “Her buttery tone, diva agility and tasteful, sensual lyrical interpretations make something of a phenomenon when she opens her mouth to sing.”  Winner of Best Female Vocalist at 2015’s Niagara Music Awards, she’s often likened to powerhouse artists like Alicia Keys, Adele & Pink!

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-Songwriters NLX, Tara Holloway, Sammi Morelli, Wed May 24

Ronley Teper’s Lipliners, w. Dave Gould, Sat May 20

Posted on April 18, 2017 by Editor

Saturday May 20, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. From Toronto, the surprising and delightful Ronley Teper’s Lipliners, plus a special guest opening set by Hamilton’s ever-inventive Dave Gould. Children at heart who love comedic, poetic, theatric, yet at times provocative storytelling, alongside truly magical music and visuals (by Saul Lederman), should prepare themselves for the surprising world of Ronley Teper’s Lipliners. Ronley Teper guitars, voice; Ben Bowen trumpet; Aly Livingston flute; Tim Posgate (of So Long Seven) banjo; Ben Hermann percussion.   http://www.ronleyteper.com

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk | Comments Off on Ronley Teper’s Lipliners, w. Dave Gould, Sat May 20

Matapa World Music Series: fado singer Tony Gouveia Fri May 19

Posted on April 17, 2017 by Editor

Friday May 19, 2017, at 8 pm. Tickets: Advanced $20 (call 905-543-8512); Seniors & Students $18; Matapa Members $18; Door $25.
Matapa World Music Series presents Tony Gouveia, an impressive voice of a new generation of fadistas (fado singers) in North America. Fado is the urban folk music of Portugal’s capital, Lisbon. Tony Gouveia was born in Lisbon, and came to Canada at the age of 13. He never forgot his roots nor the fados that his father used to sing at family gatherings. His debut fado album, O Nosso Fado, a compilation of fado standards reveals his deep passion and authentic vocal expression. Critically acclaimed by the Portuguese-Canadian media, it won over many new fans to fado. Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, it is difficult not to be moved by Tony’s performance which embodies the essence of the Portuguese soul. His new album, Fado Ardente, recorded in Portugal, offers a blend of new original material along with some fado standards.
https://www.matapa.org/world-music-series

Posted in Event, Music-World, Special event | Comments Off on Matapa World Music Series: fado singer Tony Gouveia Fri May 19

Artword Theatre: Charly’s Piano w. Charly Chiarelli, Wed & Thurs May 17 & 18

Posted on April 16, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday May 17 and Thursday May 18, 2017, at 8 pm, pwyc/$10. Artword Theatre presents Charly’s Piano, a new work-in-progress. A young man looking for work in 1971, a psychiatric hospital, and a piano. Performed by Charly Chiarelli. Written by Charly Chiarelli and Ronald Weihs.

This is the fourth in a series of monthly theatre projects-in-progress, with Artistic Director Ronald Weihs. The February edition (#1) was Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy, a reading based on testimony from the interrogation in 1953 interspersed with some of his poems. The March edition (#2) was Mind Wars: a theatre exploration about the 1960s, when politics became a struggle over reality and perception, with readings from actual testimony and interviews of the Yippies, Black Activists, the CIA, the FBI. The April edition (#3) was The Man in the Vault by Ronald Weihs, a staged reading of a new script based on actual events. The play explores how a CIA counter-intelligence scandal in the 1960s telescopes into the present. What is the truth? How do you know if you have found it?
To find out more, call 905-543-8512 or email: rweihs@artword.net, artword@artword.net

Posted in Event, Theatre | Comments Off on Artword Theatre: Charly’s Piano w. Charly Chiarelli, Wed & Thurs May 17 & 18

Mother’s Day Special, Raine Hamilton & Piper Hayes, Sun May 14 at 2:30

Posted on April 15, 2017 by Editor

Sunday May 14, 2017, at 2:30 pm, $10. To reserve in advance call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Singer-songwriter-violinist Raine Hamilton is on tour from Winnipeg. She teams up with Piper Hayes from Hamilton for a special Mother’s Day Sunday afternoon concert.
Raine‘s music is resonant, acoustic folk with an other-worldly edge and a lyric presence that cuts deep. Each song has a story, delivered between songs with humour and grace.  http://www.rainehamilton.com/
Piper Hayes is a critically acclaimed performer, singer- songwriter in the folk-pop mode, now based in Hamilton. In the past few years she has toured all over Canada and the USA, and has headlined three international tours. In 2016 she released her second EP Goodbye Mister Nice Guy, which was in the top 10 of CFMU 93.3 charts. http://pipersings.com/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Mother’s Day Special, Raine Hamilton & Piper Hayes, Sun May 14 at 2:30

A Love Electric w. Todd Clouser, jazz-rock-psych, Sat May 13

Posted on April 14, 2017 by Editor

Saturday May 13, 2017, at 8 pm, $15 at door /$12 advance. Advance tickets, call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Blockbuster show at Artword! A Love Electric is a critically acclaimed rock trio born out of Mexico City’s jazz scene. Todd Clouser (guitar/vocals) of Minneapolis, USA, Hernan Hecht (drums), a longtime Mexico resident from Argentina, and Aaron Cruz (bass), a Mexico City native, form a band that over 4 years, 4 records, and nearly 500 concerts, has consistently accomplished the uncommon, making music on their own terms and touring the world.  http://www.toddclouser.com/

“A savage guitarist, a merciless drummer, an enormous bassist” says Mexico City rock festival giant Vive Latino. From cities throughout Mexico, the United States, and on tours through Germany, the Czech Republic, Spain, Morocco, to Panama, and through Argentina to Patagonia, A Love Electric has won fans and praise from critics for its energetic and altruistic approach to creating and performing. “Blistering”, says the Prague Post of the A Love Electric experience, NPR says “fascinating”, Time Out Barcelona “illuminating”, and MX City’s major newspaper La Jornada “a hit, one of the most progressive and important groups of recent years.”
A Love Electric are tireless supporters of arts education, performing and teaching in at-risk communities across the Americas.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Music-rock | Comments Off on A Love Electric w. Todd Clouser, jazz-rock-psych, Sat May 13

MOJO Men of Jazz Octet , Fri May 12

Posted on April 13, 2017 by Editor

Friday, May 12, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve call 905-543-8512. MOJO is the Men of Jazz Octet, a group of the area’s top jazz players.  The line up for the night: Jeff Plumbley trumpet, Lindsay Paul tenor sax, Darren Blundel alto sax, Don Templeton trombone, Dave Rubicini bari sax (group photo left), plus Marc Girard guitar, Ethan Tilbury bass, and Ken Bower drums. Come on in and get your Mojo on with some great jazz in a truly energetic performance.
Join this exciting group as they explore post-bop to modern compositions by jazz luminaries such as Freddie Hubbard, Bob Meyer, Kenny Dorham and Tom Kubis. Along the way the band will tip their hats to some of the stalwarts of the jazz octet like Dave Pell and Gerry Mulligan.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on MOJO Men of Jazz Octet , Fri May 12

Hamilton Poetry Centre Open Reading, Thurs May 11, 7-9 pm

Posted on April 12, 2017 by Editor

Hamilton_Poetry_Centre_400x400Thursday May 11, 2017, 7 pm. Free. The Hamilton Poetry Centre presents its annual Open Reading. Everyone is welcome to attend and to read. Doors open 6:30, reading starts at 7:00. Please arrive by 6:45 to register
Established in 1983, the Hamilton Poetry Centre works to support and encourage the writing and appreciation of poetry, by conducting workshops and hosting Canada Council sponsored readings. http://hamiltonpoetrycentre.com/

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word | Comments Off on Hamilton Poetry Centre Open Reading, Thurs May 11, 7-9 pm

Adrean Farrugia hosts Mohawk Music showcase series, Wed May10

Posted on April 11, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday May 10, 2017, at 8 pm, $10 / $5 students. The final evening of the season in the showcase series from Mohawk College Music, featuring teachers and students coming together to make music. The series is organized by pianist Adrean Farrugia (photo left) and bassist Clark Johnston. Mohawk students for Wed May 10 are pianist Ian Brown, vocalist Leah Korkowski and drummer Nigel Stewart.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Adrean Farrugia hosts Mohawk Music showcase series, Wed May10

JAZZ: vocalist Julie Michels & pianist Adrean Farrugia, Sat May 6

Posted on April 8, 2017 by Editor

Saturday May 6, 2017, at 8 pm, $15/$10 students. To reserve in advance call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Pianist Adrean Farrugia has invited renowned Toronto-based jazz vocalist Julie Michels to heat up the stage at Artword Artbar. Julie Michels is a unique and important feature on the Toronto jazz scene. Pat Collins joins in on bass.  http://www.juliemichels.com/
Award winning pianist and composer Adrean Farrugia is one of Canada’s most distinct voices on the piano. He plays occasionally at Artword Artbar and teaches music at Mohawk College, as well as juggling his busy touring schedule.  http://adreanfarrugia.com/

Julie Michels began her life humming in tune with the radio … and she hasn’t stopped since.  Her “glorious holler” (Mark Miller, Globe and Mail) has been a unique and important feature on the Toronto Jazz scene for more than two decades. She settled there after studying with legendary bassist Richard Davis at the University of Wisconsin, and spending time performing across Europe and North America. As a recording artist, Julie has worked with bassist George Koller (Singing Naked, 1995, and Bass and Voice, 2011), Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on JAZZ: vocalist Julie Michels & pianist Adrean Farrugia, Sat May 6

Matapa: Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Fri May 5

Posted on April 7, 2017 by Editor

Friday May 5, 2017 at 8 pm. Tickets Advanced $20 (call Artword 905-543-8512); Seniors & Students $15; Matapa Members $15; Door $25.
Matapa World Music Series presents Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble combining the ancient rhythms of Africa with the jazz harmonies of modern times. Waleed Abdulhamid (Composer/Band Leader) explains:  “We play melody on top of traditional jazzy chord progressions with a twist of African ancient rhythms. There is a place for African instruments such as gombri, lakoumbe, marimba in the music.”
Band members are: Waleed Abdulhamid bass,vocals, percussion; Brian Dhari tenor saxophone; John Ebata keyboard, piano, accordion; Aaron Ferrera drums, percussion; Cory Sitek alto and soprano saxophone, flute.   https://www.matapa.org/world-music-series

Multi-instrumentalist, composer, vocalist, producer and film maker, Waleed Abdulhamid was born in Sudan.  Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-World, Special event | Comments Off on Matapa: Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble, Fri May 5

The Acoustics, accordion-based music, Thurs May 4

Posted on April 6, 2017 by Editor

Thursday, May 4, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. The Acoustics, a lively band from the Hamilton area, play their own original folk-rock, world-roots music. Alfonso Spoto on accordion, Bonnie Bell on violin, and Vince Spoto on guitar/vocals. For the past 14 years, they have been cultivating their own unique music for local fans and venues. During this period they have released three studio CDs, their debut CD A Thousand Yesterdays  (Dec. 2003), Forever and a Day (Dec. 2007), and Erie Long (Jan. 2013).

Posted in Event, Music, Music-World | Comments Off on The Acoustics, accordion-based music, Thurs May 4

Special Concert: Italian jazz pianist Vittorio Mezza, Wed May 3

Posted on April 5, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday May 3, 2017, at 8 pm. $20/ $15 advance & students. To reserve in advance call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Italian pianist and composer Vittorio Mezza is performing with George Koller (bass) and Ben Riley (drums). The concert at Artword Artbar is part of a 3-venue event celebrating famous Napoli meodies. Mezza‘s recent recording Napoli Jazz Songs offers jazz versions of familiar songs from his native Italy. The album was recorded in Toronto with George Koller.   http://www.vittoriomezza.com/web/en/
* May 2  Jazz Bistro  -Toronto
* May 3  Artword Artbar – Hamilton
* May 4 Manhattans – Guelph

Performing in many international festivals, Mezza has opened for the Wayne Shorter Quartet and the Mike Stern Band. Receiving his diploma and bachelor in jazz from the St. Cecilia Conservatory of Music in Rome, he attended various course and master classes held by international musicians including Franco D’Andrea. Mezza has gone on to lead jazz piano courses at various conservatories.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Special Concert: Italian jazz pianist Vittorio Mezza, Wed May 3

Corin Raymond + Treasa Levasseur & Brian Kobayakawa, Sat Apr 29

Posted on March 21, 2017 by Editor

Corin_Raymond_3961251_cadSaturday April 29, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. Or book online https://www.corinraymond.com/shows
Singer/storyteller Corin Raymond will be joined by Hamilton-based keCorin_Raymond+HoboJunglehjfd-coveryboardist and songbird Treasa Levasseur, along with upright bassist Brian Kobayakawa, for an entertaining evening of new songs and old. Warning: Corin may very well still be celebrating the Juno nomination for his album Hobo Jungle Fever Dreams, as well as sharing some songs as yet unrecorded. “Corin Raymond is a storyteller who by the end of the night you’ll have known your whole life.” – The Globe and Mail.     http://www.corinraymond.com/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Corin Raymond + Treasa Levasseur & Brian Kobayakawa, Sat Apr 29

Jazz w. the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, Fri Apr 28

Posted on March 20, 2017 by Editor

Friday April 28, 2017, at 8 pm, $10 / $5 students. Jazz with the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, featuring Chris Bruder on piano, Tom Altobelli on bass, Sean Bruce Parker on drums and bandleader Aubrey Wilson on vocals.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz w. the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, Fri Apr 28

Tamara Buckland hosts Spoken Word Open Mic, Thurs April 27

Posted on March 18, 2017 by Editor

Thursday April 27, 2017, 8 pm. An Open Mic for Spoken Word Artists, hosted by Tamara Buckland. To participate, please contact Tamara on her Facebook event for this: https://www.facebook.com/events/1266508186737186/

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word | Comments Off on Tamara Buckland hosts Spoken Word Open Mic, Thurs April 27

Singer-songwriters Gina Horswood & Karen Morand, Wed Apr 26

Posted on March 17, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday, April 26, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Singer-songwriters Karen Morand, from Windsor, and Gina Horswood, on tour from Australia, are coming to Artword Artbar on their Ontario tour. Gina and Karen are not just a couple of chicks playing guitars. Their Saints and Sinners tour finds them rambling down highways‚ unraveling stories and songs with powerhouse vocals and infectious beats. Their original songs echo dusty roads, dark bars and creaking church pews. A night of gritty gospel and earthy blues will be sure to leave ya with a satisfied soul.
www.karenmorand.com         www.ginahorswood.com

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-folk | Comments Off on Singer-songwriters Gina Horswood & Karen Morand, Wed Apr 26

Alex Whorms & Dana Swarbrick, EP release, Sun Apr 23, at 4 pm

Posted on March 16, 2017 by Editor

Sunday, April 23, 2017, at 4 pm, $10 show/$15 includes EP. To reserve call 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
A Sunday afternoon special concert by pianist and singer-songwriter Alex Whorms, plus a guest set by singer-songwriter Dana Swarbrick.
Alex will play piano and sing solo, and then joined by Michael Podlovics (violin), Ailish Corbett (viola),  Scott Robinson (bass), Michael Panza-Beltrandi (guitar), Zachary Cropper (drums).
Alex Whorms, who is an accomplished pianist, singer, and songwriter, is celebrating the release of her new indie-pop EP Our Lives, recorded recently at Grant Avenue Studio. Following a lifelong passion for classical piano and musical theatre, her original music combines strong piano parts with multi-instrumental accompaniment and relatable, honest lyrics. She has appeared in the CBC Piano Hero competition and Hamilton Fringe Theatre Festival as well as several gigs in Toronto and the GTA.    http://www.alexwhorms.com/
Dana Swarbrick (photo right) fronts a folk-rock band Dana & The Monsters, and was the winner of the 2016 McMaster Battle of the Bands competition. She has performed extensively in Hamilton and beyond, including her recent anthem performance at the 2016 Vanier Cup. A past research assistant at the McMaster LIVELab, she is now completing graduate studies at the University of Toronto.

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on Alex Whorms & Dana Swarbrick, EP release, Sun Apr 23, at 4 pm

Songwriters-in-the-round, host Duane Rutter, Sat Apr 22

Posted on March 13, 2017 by Editor

Saturday April 22, 2017, at 8 pm, $15.  Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. Duane Rutter (photo right), a guitarist and songwriter from Port Rowan, is hosting a songwriters-in-the-round evening at Artword Artbar:
* Jay Linden. Unabashedly acoustic, unabashedly folk rooted, he writes and sings memorable folk songs and plays dozens of instruments.   www.jaylinden.com
* Caroline Wiles  The Ancaster singer/songwriter has a “rich, awe-inspiring voice with incredible range”.  Her latest album is Lover’s Lane.   www.carolinewiles.com
* Michael J Birthelmer Hamilton-based, Michael has been writing and performing his music since 1976. Currently, most of Michael’s time is spent operating his recording studio.  www.michaelbirthelmer.com
* Noah Zacharin  Poet and songwriter, Noah has been praised as “a wonderful songwriter and performer, and stunning guitarist”.  www.noahsong.com
* Duane Rutter  Duane has been writing, recording and performing his unique mix of folk/Americana/outlaw/country and blues  music throughout North America  www.duanerutter.com

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Songwriters-in-the-round, host Duane Rutter, Sat Apr 22

Singer-songwriter Allison Brown & The Assembly Line, Fri Apr 21

Posted on March 12, 2017 by Editor

Friday, April 21, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Folk-roots singer-songwriter Allison Brown is back with a full band The Assembly Line: Jedd House upright bass, Dan Henshall on mandolin, Vera Colley on accordion and Allison Brown on guitar and vocals. Roots songstress Allison Brown brings crafted originals matched with classic roots repertoire, delivered with conviction and sweet and powerful singing.
www.allisonbrown.ca

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk | Comments Off on Singer-songwriter Allison Brown & The Assembly Line, Fri Apr 21

Singer-songwriter Keith Kitchen, w. guest Jacob Moon, Thur Apr 20

Posted on March 11, 2017 by Editor

Thursday April 20, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Saskatchewan’s Keith Kitchen brings his soothing voice and soulful acoustic guitar to the stage for the first time in Hamilton. His latest CD Orbits has been hailed as ‘absolutely mesmerizing collection of songs.’ www.keithkitchenmusic.com
Joined by special guest singer-songwriter Jacob Moon from Hamilton, this evening promises to be a tour-de-force of well-crafted songs, stories and guitar fireworks.  www.jacobmoon.com

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-songwriter Keith Kitchen, w. guest Jacob Moon, Thur Apr 20

Acoustic Moments: Reggae dinner and show, Sat Apr 15

Posted on March 10, 2017 by Editor

Saturday April 15, 2017. Acoustic Moments Easter weekend special dinner & show. Call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
**Dinner + show, doors 7:00, dinner 7:30 pm, $20 (SOLD OUT).
**Show only, at 8:30 pm, some tickets at door only.
Mr. Jay hosts another fabulous Acoustic Moments show & dinner, with world-class reggae music by The Riddim Riders Unplugged. Core members Franklin Joseph and Mike Rajczak are joined by vocalist Lauren Mikayla and lead guitar Keon Crosswell.
Chef Learie Mc Nicolls will be cooking up some jerk chicken with rice and steam vegetables, Trinidad style, or a vegetarian stir fry option.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-World, Special event | Comments Off on Acoustic Moments: Reggae dinner and show, Sat Apr 15

Beg To Differ, special concert for Good Friday, April 14

Posted on March 9, 2017 by Editor

BegToDiffer2Friday April 14, 2017, at 8 pm, $tba. Beg To Differ Trio present a special Good Friday concert. Tim Ninehouse on keyboards, vocals; Doug Sikma on guitar; Steve Foster on drums. Unique renditions of blues, jazz and funk songs, drawing from a large musical repertoire from early blues roots to jazzified contemporary songs. http://reverbnation.com/begtodiffertrio

Posted in Event, Music-Blues, Special event | Comments Off on Beg To Differ, special concert for Good Friday, April 14

Artword Theatre: The Man in the Vault, Wed-Thur Apr 12-13

Posted on March 8, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday April 12 and Thursday April 13, 2017, at 8 pm, pwyc/$10. Artword Theatre presents The Man in the Vault by Ronald Weihs. Based on actual events, the play explores how a CIA counter-intelligence scandal in the 1960s telescopes into the present. What is the truth? How do you know if you have found it? A staged reading performed by Val Kay, Tom Dusome, Sean Emberley and Learie Mc Nicolls.
This is the third in a series of monthly theatre projects in the works, with Artistic Director Ronald Weihs. The February edition (#1) was Langston Hughes vs Joe McCarthy, a reading based on testimony from the interrogation in 1953 interspersed with some of his poems. The March edition (#2) was Mind Wars: a theatre exploration about the 1960s, when politics became a struggle over reality and perception, with readings from actual testimony and interviews of the Yippies, Black Activists, the CIA, the FBI.
To find out more, call 905-543-8512 or email: rweihs@artword.net, artword@artword.net

Posted in Event, Theatre | Comments Off on Artword Theatre: The Man in the Vault, Wed-Thur Apr 12-13

Bluegrass with New Cumberland, + Ian Bell, Sat April 8

Posted on March 5, 2017 by Editor

Saturday, April 8, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Back with some blazing hot bluegrass: The New Cumberland bluegrass band from London Ontario: Tom Burns vocals and guitar,  Blair Heddle vocals, mandolin and dobro, Paul Hurdle vocals and banjo, Tom Rutledge string bass, and Darrin Schott fiddle. Featuring inventive solo work, driving rhythms and three part vocal harmonies, New Cumberland’s musical integrity and joy in playing together resonates in every performance. http://newcumberlandband.com/
Special guest with an opening set on April 8 is the renowned Ian Bell, traditional music specialist, player of many instruments (guitar, button accordion, mandolin, harmonica, fiddle, pipes) and member of many bands including Muddy York. http://www.ianbellmusic.ca/Ian_Bell/Welcome.html

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk | Comments Off on Bluegrass with New Cumberland, + Ian Bell, Sat April 8

So Long Seven: jazz-world-folk blend… Fri Apr 7

Posted on March 4, 2017 by Editor

Friday April 7, 2017 at 8 pm, $15. So Long Seven, a wonderful band that includes Neil Hendry (guitar, mandolin), William Lamoureux (violin), Ravi Naimpally (tabla) and Tim Posgate (banjo), returns to Artword Artbar (photo from show last year). So Long Seven performs richly textured acoustic music that brings their diverse influences into a distinctly Canadian voice. Influenced by bands such as Punch Brothers, Shakti, Oregon and many others the band is breaking new ground. Together they are creating a seamless tapestry of sound through their original music, blending composition and improvisation.  www.solongseven.com
**There is such a positive glowing musical force driving the sound. Each performer is a star when soloing and improvising. Tiina Kiik – Whole Note Magazine
**So Long Seven is a melange – and a delicious one, too judging from the enthusiastic audience. It’s music – almost all originals – draws from folk, bluegrass, and world music… Alayne McGregor, Ottawa Jazz Scene

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz, Music-World | Comments Off on So Long Seven: jazz-world-folk blend… Fri Apr 7

The Amy Project, the music of Amy Winehouse, Thurs Apr 6

Posted on March 3, 2017 by Editor

Thursday April 6, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. To reserve call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
The Amy Project is a musical and storied journey outlining the short but tragic life of Amy Winehouse, the late British soul, blues and jazz singer. The show is performed live, raw and acoustically (with no backing tracks) by four talented performers: Marni Shuster (photo left) as the voice of Amy,  Anthony Caradonna guitar/vocals, Ian Taylor bass/vocals, and Bob DiSalle drums/vocals.
Amy Winehouse was nominated for 63 World Music Awards and won 25 times for her songs and recordings before her death in 2011 at the age of only 27. The Amy Project performance will cover most of the songs from her two main albums Frank and Back to Black, plus many more of her other recordings, and some unreleased covers and collaborations. This is not a tribute act but a respectful celebration of a talented and influential artist’s short body of work.

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on The Amy Project, the music of Amy Winehouse, Thurs Apr 6

The Rough & Tumble, Will Gillespie, Daniel Whitener, Wed Apr 5

Posted on March 2, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday April 5, 2017 at 8 pm, $15/$10. A one-night-only music festival of folk, americana, bluegrass singer-songwriters at Artword Artbar. Three sets, headlined by Mallory Graham and Scott Tyler (The Rough and Tumble) on tour from the US, with guest sets by local songwriter Will Gillespie, and visiting guitar-picker/singer Daniel Whitener.
The Rough & Tumble is a two-person, multi-instrumental folk-americana duo Mallory Graham and Scott Tyler. While they consider their beloved PO Box location to be Nashville, the couple has been living on the road with their two dogs for two of their five touring years. The Rough & Tumble delivers each performance with the nudge of an elbow, a wink from the right eye, and the sincerity of Pinocchio after his rehabilitation. Their 2016 release, Pieces and Pieces, written for the Alyssa Pearson film, delves into themes of women, war, and PTSD. Their February 2017 release, Cardboard and Christmas Lights (Rock Candy Recordings), is a 7-song EP.  www.theroughandtumble.com
Dan Whitener is bluegrass banjo-picker and vocalist from Washington DC, on a solo tour of Southern Ontario with a new CD. He is a member of a number of bands, including the ground-breaking Gangstagrass, and Blue Plate Special, Man about a Horse, and Sparrows. http://danwhitenermusic.com/ 
Will Gillespie (photo right) has developed an elegant and eccentric sound all his own. He is a dynamic performer with a diverse catalogue of original songs, from crooner to rockabilly, combining elements of folk, rock & roll and cabaret. Born and raised in South Porcupine, Northern Ontario, Will lives in Hamilton, where he is actively involved in the local music and theatre scene.  https://www.willgillespie.ca/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk | Comments Off on The Rough & Tumble, Will Gillespie, Daniel Whitener, Wed Apr 5

Em & Joss (Emily Kemp & Jocelyn Russell vocal duo), Sat Apr 1

Posted on March 1, 2017 by Editor

Saturday April 1, 2017, at 8 pm. $10. The powerhouse vocal duo Em & Joss (Emily Kemp and Jocelyn Russell) sing a wide variety of genres, including rock, jazz, pop, folk and blues, with some originals in the mix. Their music is vocal-driven, full of rich, sultry harmonies that create a down-to-earth feel of true feminine beauty. Both are graduates of the Mohawk College Music Program and have been performing throughout the GTHA for a number of years.
.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Em & Joss (Emily Kemp & Jocelyn Russell vocal duo), Sat Apr 1

Jazz: Chris Wallace’s Many Names Trio, Friday March 31

Posted on February 27, 2017 by Editor

Chris_Wallace_cFriday March 31, 2017, at 8 pm, $15 / $10 students. A return visit from Chris Wallace‘s Many Names Trio: Adrean Farrugia on piano, Artie Roth on bass, Chris Wallace on drums. This top shelf trio will be playing classic jazz standards and modern compositions by the likes of Herbie Hancock, Esbjorn Svensson, Miles Davis, Mulgrew Miller and others.
Chris Wallace, a drummer and composer originally from Regina, lived a decade in Edinburgh, Scotland, where he became a central figure in the Scottish jazz community. Chris is now based in Toronto. Best known for his work with the trios NeWt (Scottish Jazz Ensemble of the year 2012) and Breach, Chris also released his own quartet album Looking Glass under the band name Loose Grip. Just before leaving Scotland, he formed the Chris Wallace Quintet and recorded the album Identity which is now available for digital download. His new project is Chris Wallace’s Many Names, with an EP released in 2016. https://chriswallace.bandcamp.com/album/many-names-ep
“…a drummer of supreme musicality..” John Shand, Sydney Morning Herald

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz: Chris Wallace’s Many Names Trio, Friday March 31

60s Folk Revival Sing-a-long, Thurs March 30

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Editor

Sue_and_Dwight_logoThursday March 30, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve
call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone returns to Artword Artbar. The 60s Folk Revival sing-a-long concert features Sue Peters (vocals),  Michelle Rumball (vocals), Dwight Peters (vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars) and Tony Laviola (double bass). Imagine an evening that transforms the Artword Artbar into one of the 1960s coffeehouses of Yorkville or Greenwich Village. The lyrics have meaning, the voices are true and passionate in solo and in harmony, and the music inspires the audience to join in. Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone recreates the songs of hope and social justice, messages that still resonate today. The show covers the songs of the great singers and poets including Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Ian & Sylvia, Peter Paul and Mary, and Phil Ochs. Song-sheets are provided. http://wherehaveallthefolksongsgone.blogspot.ca/

Posted in Event, Music-folk | Comments Off on 60s Folk Revival Sing-a-long, Thurs March 30

Psychedelic jazz fusion, guitarist Doug Murphy, Wed Mar 29

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Editor

Doug Murphy_c5014_2Wednesday March 29, 2017, 8 pm, $10 reg / $5 students. A return appearance of “It Is What It Is” — fusion psychedelic jazz featuring the far-out fabulous Doug Murphy on guitar, with Alana Gunn bass, Oscar Galbraith drums, Mike Ricci sax and flute. All original compositions, mostly by Doug himself. Also some free-form improvisations.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Psychedelic jazz fusion, guitarist Doug Murphy, Wed Mar 29

Jennis: Dennis Gaumond & Jen Gillmor, folk-blues, Sat March 25

Posted on February 15, 2017 by Editor

Jennis-9671-smallcSaturday March 25, 2017, at 8 pm, $10.  Back at Artword Artbar! The wonderful  folk-blues duo Jennis.  Jennis brings together award-winning Guelph-based Dennis Gaumond‘s decades of experience writing and performing original blues and folk and the diverse musical experiences of veteran Toronto indie-scene multi-instrumentalist Jen Gillmor. The unique blend of cello and dobro is also augmented by unusual sounds, such as didgeridoo, custom-tuned harmonicas, flute, wah-guitar, jaw harp and wazinator. It makes for a very entertaining performance, filled with energy, passion and humour. www.jennis.ca     www.jengillmormusic.ca

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-folk | Comments Off on Jennis: Dennis Gaumond & Jen Gillmor, folk-blues, Sat March 25

Singer-songwriter M.E. Law, and guests, Fri Mar 24

Posted on February 14, 2017 by Editor

Friday March 24, 2017, at 8 pm, $10 (or $15 includes CD). To reserve call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Singer-songwriter M.E. Law returns to Artword Artbar. She brings tales of her life to the table: songs behind the stories and stories behind the songs, spiked with a gentle, ribald sense of humour, and at times aching honesty. All are delivered in a unique voice and style all her own.
http://www.original-m-e.com/
Opening set by local singer-songwriters Sarah Farr and Christine Leakey.

“Listen carefully – you may miss a zinger or two!” – Frank Kocher, San Diego Troubadour Music Magazine

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-songwriter M.E. Law, and guests, Fri Mar 24

Jazz vocalist from Japan: Hisaka, w. George Koller, Thurs Mar 23

Posted on February 13, 2017 by Editor

Thursday March 23, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Japanese jazz vocalist Hisaka is visiting from Tokyo, and will play a reunion concert with noted bassist George Koller. Also playing: Attila Fias on piano and Great Bob Scott on drums. This is Hisaka‘s first visit to Hamilton!
Currently based in Tokyo, Hisaka visits Canada on occasion for performances to keep active in the world-wide music scene. Hisaka first came to Toronto in 2011 to pursue her music dream and became actively involved in the Toronto music scene, including the appearance of Jazz FM91.1 One Stop Vocal Jazz Safari. Hisaka has released two albums so far, both produced by Canadian luminary bassist George Koller. Her second album, with legendary Canadian trumpet player Guido Basso, combines various musical elements — jazz, classic, samba, rock, R&B, and pop.  https://www.facebook.com/hisaka.vocal/

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz vocalist from Japan: Hisaka, w. George Koller, Thurs Mar 23

THEATRE: play-readings for The Future is Female Festival, Wed Mar 22

Posted on February 12, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday March 22, 2017, at 7:30. Hamilton’s Make Art Theatre presents an evening of three play-readings as part of The Future is Female Festival. The plays featured are:
** How to Date a Politically-Correct Feminist (Or, the Compassion Experiment) by Emma Harr
** Press  by Alice Stanley Jr.
** Low & Away by Demetra Kareman
Readers: Cadance Allen, Liz Buchanan, Sean Emberley, Carlos Jimenez, Kenneth Johnson, Tina Kocic, Amy Noelle Milligan, and Amber Wood

The Future is Female Festival is a festival of readings of short plays by women of all backgrounds on the subject “the future is female” and what that means to them. The festival is happening across North America throughout the month of March. It is an expression of the hope that the future will hold equality for all and a celebration of women in theatre. https://thefutureisfemalefestival.com/

Posted in Event, Special event, Theatre | Comments Off on THEATRE: play-readings for The Future is Female Festival, Wed Mar 22

World Storytelling Day stories, Sun Mar 19, 2 to 4 pm

Posted on February 11, 2017 by Editor

Seven nymphs of Greek legend transforming into poplar trees, in grief after the death of their brother Phaeton. Their tears became amber. The woodcut is an illustration published in 1499 in The Dream of Poliphilus, a romance by Francesco Colonna.

Sunday March 19, 2017, from 2 to 4 pm. Come listen to stories! In honour of World Storytelling Day, members of The Burlington Storytellers’ Guild tell Stories of Transformation. The tellers are Barb Vollick, Marina Lloyd, Suzanne Burchell, Bob Tadman, with two sets of stories in a coffee-house setting.
Guild members are dedicated to the growth, development and expansion of oral tradition storytelling as an art form.  http://burlingtonstorytellersguild.vpweb.ca/events
World Storytelling Day (March 20th) is a global celebration of the art of oral storytelling, celebrated every year on the equinox. On World Storytelling Day, as many people as possible tell and listen to stories in as many languages and at as many places as possible, during the same day and night.  http://www.freewebs.com/worldstorytellingday/

Posted in Event, Storytelling | Comments Off on World Storytelling Day stories, Sun Mar 19, 2 to 4 pm

Sufjan Stevens Tribute Night, host Brad Cheeseman, Sat Mar 18

Posted on February 10, 2017 by Editor

Saturday, March 18, 2017, at 8 pm, $10/$5 students. Come on and feel the Illinoise! Spend an evening hearing the music of Sufjan Stevens, delightfully reimagined and rearranged for an all-instrumental band of great local musicians, headed by bassist/composer Brad Cheeseman (2016 TD Grand Prix de Jazz winner). Expect to hear a number of selections from Stevens’ broad repertoire, including fan-favourites from ILLINOISE and MICHIGAN. Brad Cheeseman bass, Chris Bruder piano, Lorenzo Castelli drums, Aidan Sibley trombone, Francis Smith alto sax, Jordan Tunney trumpet

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Sufjan Stevens Tribute Night, host Brad Cheeseman, Sat Mar 18

JAZZ: Adrean Farrugia Trio, with Drew Jurecka violin, Fri Mar 17

Posted on February 9, 2017 by Editor

Friday March 17, 2017, at 8 pm, $15 / $10 students. Jazz with the Adrean Farrugia Trio featuring violinist Drew Jurecka.  Adrean Farrugia piano, Drew Jurecka violin/vocals, Clark Johnston bass.
Drew Jurecka, violinist, has spent ten years playing jazz in Toronto, and has become an in-demand sideman and session player. He has played, written or arranged on more than 150 records, including several Juno winning and Grammy nominated albums. Drew spent 5 years on the road with Jeff Healey, and now plays as part of Jill Barber’s band.  He has also written and arranged for Jill’s records, and produced her last two records.
Award-winning pianist Adrean Farrugia has been featured on more than 30 albums to date garnering multiple Juno awards and nominations and has performed internationally across Canada, the United States, Japan, France, Germany, Poland, The Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Australia. Adrean performs regularly with platinum selling artist Matt Dusk Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on JAZZ: Adrean Farrugia Trio, with Drew Jurecka violin, Fri Mar 17

Artword Theatre: Mind Wars, Wed & Thurs Mar 15 & 16

Posted on February 8, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday March 15 and Thursday March 16, 2017, at 8 pm, pwyc/$10. Artword Theatre presents Mind Wars: a theatre exploration about the 1960s, when politics became a struggle over reality and perception. Readings from actual testimony and interviews bring back the Yippies vs the CIA, Black Activists vs the FBI, brainwashing, mind control and propaganda of the era. Conceived and assembled by director Ronald Weihs. Performed by Pamela Gardner, Tom Dusome, Howard Jerome, Tamara Buckland and Learie Mc Nicolls. This is the second in a series of theatre projects in the works, with Artistic Director Ronald Weihs. To find out more, and how to participate, or just attend, call 905-543-8512 or email: rweihs@artword.net, artword@artword.net

Posted in Event, Theatre | Comments Off on Artword Theatre: Mind Wars, Wed & Thurs Mar 15 & 16

Grito de Mujer, a night of poetry and music, Sat Mar 11

Posted on February 3, 2017 by Editor

Saturday March 11, 2017, at 8 pm, free. Grito de Mujer (Woman Scream) is a night of music and poetry that is part of the Woman Scream International Poetry Festival celebrated in March of each year. The night is dedicated to raising awareness about violence against women and girls. There will be poetry and music. The poets include: Amaluna, Constanza Duran, Angie C., Edith Chávez, Klyde Broox, Kelsey Knight, Violeta San Juan, Tania Pineda.
Musicians include: Lil America, Nancy Reyes, Rowena Chow, Marcelo Puente, Fito Molina.
For more info about the international festival: http://www.gritodemujer.com/

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word, Music, Music-Latin, Special event | Comments Off on Grito de Mujer, a night of poetry and music, Sat Mar 11

Two Bands! Rock and blues! Fri March 10

Posted on February 2, 2017 by Editor

Friday March 10, 2017, 8 pm, Art Crawl tip jar. A lively busy Friday night at Artword Artbar. Joey DePaiva, bass, and Shelby Crego, guitar, are bringing two bands from Mohawk Music, playing mostly rock and blues. One long set each.
Band 1: Aoife Doyle vocals, Leah Korkowski vocals, Shirley Simpson vocals, Graysen Lee guitar, Shelby Crego guitar, Jamie Bekyarovich guitar, Joey DePaiva bass, Nik Hurst keyboards & piano, Cooper Hannahson drums.
Band 2: Lauren Perreira vocals, Shelby Crego guitar, Olivia Brown bass, Miles Branaugh keys, Cooper Hannahson drums.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on Two Bands! Rock and blues! Fri March 10

Tamara Buckland hosts Spoken Word Open Mic, Thurs March 9

Posted on February 2, 2017 by Editor

Thursday March 9, 2017, 8 pm. An Open Mic for Spoken Word Artists, hosted by Tamara Buckland. View the event on Facebook and message Tamara to sign up.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1362264643826507/

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word | Comments Off on Tamara Buckland hosts Spoken Word Open Mic, Thurs March 9

Adrean Farrugia hosts Mohawk Music showcase series, Wed Mar 8

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday March 8, 2017, at 8 pm, $10 / $5 students. A new showcase series from Mohawk College Music, featuring teachers and students coming together to make music, organized by pianist Adrean Farrugia (photo left) and bassist Clark Johnston. Mohawk students for Wed March 8 are Devon Savas bass, Cooper Hannahson drums, and Alex Tomowich piano.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Adrean Farrugia hosts Mohawk Music showcase series, Wed Mar 8

CONCERT: Cootes Paradise, Sat March 4, 2017

Posted on January 10, 2017 by Editor

Saturday March 4, 2017, at 8 pm, $15.
Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
A new powerhouse band of familiar faces:
Cootes Paradise, a collective of six musicians who chose to play together, combining their many talents. Their music is roots-based: bluesy, funky, and filled with soul. Band members are: Amy Di Nino (drums), Wayne Krawchuk (guitar/vocals), Sue Leonard (vocals), Lily Sazz (keyboards/vocals), Ian Taylor (bass), Mark Volkov (flute, violin, sax).
http://www.cootesparadiseband.ca/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-folk | Comments Off on CONCERT: Cootes Paradise, Sat March 4, 2017

Cowboy Quartet: Vintage Sounds, w. Tiny Bill Cody, Fri Mar 3, 2017

Posted on January 9, 2017 by Editor

Friday March 3, 2017, at 8:30 pm, $15. Tiny Bill Cody, vocals and guitar, and his Cowboy Quartet: Vintage Sounds show, with Mimi Shaw vocals/guitar, Orange McFarland bass, Jeff Griffiths drums. They will play your favourite country weepers, cowboy ballads, and early rock crooners. Not to be missed.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter, Storytelling | Comments Off on Cowboy Quartet: Vintage Sounds, w. Tiny Bill Cody, Fri Mar 3, 2017

JAZZ: Samuel Bonnet Trio, w. guest Brad Cheeseman, Thurs Mar 2

Posted on January 8, 2017 by Editor

Thursday March 2, 2017. at 8 pm, $15/ $10 students. Jazz with the Samuel Bonnet Trio, on tour from Montreal: Samuel Bonnet on guitar, Elli Miller-Maboungou on percussion and Julien Fillion on saxophone, with special guest Brad Cheeseman on bass. Website: http://www.samuelbonnetguitar.com/
“Here’s a project that will please both jazz and world music lovers. What a pleasure it is to discover guitarist and composer Samuel Bonnet and his group. The savvy mix of arabic sounding harmonics, Chano Dominguez-like percussions and flamenco guitar all add up to make a great sounding band. More than just a nice CD, this group has something to say.” Christophe Rodriguez – www.sortiesjazznights.com
Bio: Born in Haifa (Israël), Samuel Bonnet moved to Paris (France) and started classical guitar at age 8. Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Music-World | Comments Off on JAZZ: Samuel Bonnet Trio, w. guest Brad Cheeseman, Thurs Mar 2

Jazz duo Alex Tomowich & Jesse Martel, Wed Mar 1, 2017

Posted on January 7, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday March 1, 2017, at 8 pm, $5. Jazz duo Alex Tomowich (piano) and Jesse Martel (guitar) play a mixture of freely improvised jazz, as well as specially arranged jazz standards, and some jazz-based original compositions in multiple genres. Alex Tomowich is a jazz pianist studying music in the Applied Music program at Mohawk College and Jesse Martel is a jazz guitarist who graduated from the Applied Music program at Mohawk College. Together they have played various venues in Hamilton, as well as in Toronto and Dundas.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz duo Alex Tomowich & Jesse Martel, Wed Mar 1, 2017

Santerías, Latin fusion band, Sat Feb 25, 2017

Posted on January 6, 2017 by Editor

Saturday February 25, 2017, at 8 pm, $15 regular, $10 students. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Warm up with Santerías, a Latin fusion band from Toronto. “Santerias is happy to bring their original sound of Rumba Funk to Hamilton for the first time and is looking forward to make Sat. Feb. 25th the hottest day of winter!”
Vocalist Ana Lía Arias Garrido was born and raised in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Guitarist Juan Dino Toledo, a composer and a founding member of Santerías, is from Chile. Oriana Barbato is a versatile bassist, composer and a founding member of Santerías. Drummer Randolf Jiménez is a versatile and successful Venezuelan musician. http://www.santerias.ca/      https://www.facebook.com/santeriasband/

Posted in Event, Music-Latin | Comments Off on Santerías, Latin fusion band, Sat Feb 25, 2017

Songwriter Richard Garvey, Friday February 24, 2017

Posted on January 6, 2017 by Editor

Friday February 24, 2017, at 8 pm, $10 or by donation. Our favourite troubadour/wandering minstrel Richard Garvey has a new CD in the works. He will play some of the new songs for us! Guest performers: Tom Dusome and Charlie Banjo Bean.
http://www.richardgarvey.ca/

Posted in Event, Music-folk, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Songwriter Richard Garvey, Friday February 24, 2017

DANCE: Night Journey, Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed-Thurs, Feb 22-23

Posted on January 5, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday February 22 and Thursday February 23, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. Artword Theatre presents a Dance Showcase, featuring a new work called Night Journey, by dancer/choreographer Learie Mc Nicolls, choreographed to selected recorded music by solo bassist Wilbert De Joode. Also a new duet with dancer Tanis Macarthur, with soundscape by Learie Mc Nicolls. Visual design by Judith Sandiford.

Posted in Dance, Event | Comments Off on DANCE: Night Journey, Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed-Thurs, Feb 22-23

The Ault Sisters, jazz vocalists, Sat Feb 18, 2017

Posted on January 5, 2017 by Editor

ault sistersSaturday February 18, 2017, at 8 pm.  $15/$10 students. Reserve 905-543-8512 or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Back just after Valentine’s Day. Treat your sweetie to some sweet harmonies! Ault_Sisters_c_680Jazz with the incredible vocal trio The Ault Sisters. Experience the joy of sweet sibling harmony from Amanda, Alicia and Alanna Ault. The trio are currently making a name for themselves in vocal jazz, a genre in which their signature and sublimely seamless vocal harmonies really shine. With Chris Bruder on piano, Tom Altobelli on bass, Jordan Snider on drums. http://aultsisters.com/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on The Ault Sisters, jazz vocalists, Sat Feb 18, 2017

Jazzy blues w. the Kirkendolls, Fri Feb 17, 2017

Posted on January 4, 2017 by Editor

Friday February 17, 2017, at 8 pm, cover pwyc. The Kirkendolls, a new local band: Mark Caruana on vocals and guitar, Tom Shea on bass, Jamie Shea on guitar, and Mario Laquintana on drums. The music is a mix of music from originals to jazzy re-arrangements to soulful blues and beyond. About half of their songs are originals by Mark Caruana, who was the guitar player for Big Rude Jake in Toronto throughout most of the 90s. Later he had his own jazz trio/quartet playing in the jazz clubs in Toronto to the early 2000s. Since then he has played mostly solo for private events. He moved to Hamilton a few years ago and has put this new band together.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on Jazzy blues w. the Kirkendolls, Fri Feb 17, 2017

“Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy” for Black History Month + Howard Jerome, Wed & Thurs Feb 15 & 16

Posted on January 4, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday & Thursday, February 15 & 16, 2017, at 8 pm. Artword Theatre presents a remount of “Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy”,  a dramatic reading for Black History Month. Featuring Learie McNicolls, Tamara Buckland, and Howard Jerome. Conceived and directed by Ronald Weihs. On March 24, 1953, Langston Hughes, renowned poet of the Harlem Renaissance, was summoned before the McCarthy Committee investigating communist subversion in the USA. This dramatic reading interweaves some of his testimony with selected poems.

The second half of the evening features Howard Jerome, veteran actor, improviser, gamer voice, former beatnik-hippie-new-ager, who brings on one of his multiple personalities: Dr. Possibilities. The Doctor is making a house call at Artword Artbar. Come and get your out-of-body exam. Have your mind expanded, your heart opened, and your vision illumined. Make your appointment today.

Posted in Event, Storytelling, Theatre | Comments Off on “Langston Hughes vs. Joe McCarthy” for Black History Month + Howard Jerome, Wed & Thurs Feb 15 & 16

Beg To Differ Trio, Sat Feb 11, 2017

Posted on January 4, 2017 by Editor

BegToDiffer2Saturday February 11, 2017, 8 pm, tip jar. An Artword favourite, the high-energy Beg To Differ Trio playing blues / jazz / funk — Tim Ninehouse on keyboards, vocals; Doug Sikma on guitar; Steve Foster on drums. Unique renditions of blues, jazz and funk songs, drawing from a large musical repertoire from early blues roots to jazzified contemporary songs. http://reverbnation.com/begtodiffertrio

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on Beg To Differ Trio, Sat Feb 11, 2017

Art Crawl with Bill Lutes and the Art Crawlers, Fri Feb 10, 2017

Posted on January 3, 2017 by Editor

Friday February 10, 2017, from 8 pm to 11 pm. Tip Jar for the band. An old-fashioned art-crawl, just like the good ol’ days, with Bill Lutes and The Art Crawlers: Bill Lutes guitar, vocals; Lilia Lutes very cool vocals; Kenny Clark guitar, vocals; Hank Paton guitar, vocals; Robert Louis guitar, vocals; Bob Rudy bass, vocals; Phil Dales drums. Drop in and warm up, with all your favourite tunes.

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on Art Crawl with Bill Lutes and the Art Crawlers, Fri Feb 10, 2017

The Acoustics, accordion-based music, Thurs, Feb 9, 2017

Posted on January 3, 2017 by Editor

Thursday, February 9, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. The Acoustics are back at Artword! A lively band from the Hamilton area, they play their own original folk-rock, world-roots music. Alfonso Spoto on accordion, Bonnie Bell on violin, and Vince Spoto on guitar/vocals. For the past 14 years, they have been cultivating their own unique music for local fans and venues. During this period they have released three studio CDs, their debut CD A Thousand Yesterdays  (Dec. 2003), Forever and a Day (Dec. 2007), and Erie Long (Jan. 2013).

Posted in Event, Music, Music-World | Comments Off on The Acoustics, accordion-based music, Thurs, Feb 9, 2017

Adrean Farrugia hosts Mohawk Music showcase series, Feb 8 & Mar 8, 2017

Posted on January 3, 2017 by Editor

Wednesday February 8, 2017, at 8 pm. A new showcase series from Mohawk College Music, featuring teachers and students coming together to make music, organized by pianist Adrean Farrugia (photo left) and bassist Clark Johnston. Mohawk students for Wed Feb. 8 are saxophonist Michael Morabito and vocalist Alyssa Giammaria.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Adrean Farrugia hosts Mohawk Music showcase series, Feb 8 & Mar 8, 2017

Queens of Quirk, Sat Feb 4, 2017

Posted on December 20, 2016 by Editor

Saturday February 4, 2017, at 8 pm. Tickets $20, book online: https://www.bruha.com/event/523#tickets
Hanna Bech hosts a new edition of Queens of Quirk, an evening celebrating the (un)conventionally cool. This time the evening involves music, silks, comedy and a radio musical. Tonight’s Queens:
Hanna Bech, songwriter/piano player, is a professor of whimsy, and a diviner of hooks;
Pamela Gardner is a velvet-voiced flying songbird and member of HAG (Hamilton Aerial Group);
Mary Clements is debuting as a songwriter, whose folky piano tunes will remind you of musicals;
Radha Menon, playwright, brings a staged reading of her original radio musical Circles, set in ancient Sicily, about a deserting Roman soldier, an Archimedes groupie and a singing cyclops. Book and script by Radha Menon and music composed by Hanna Bech.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter, Theatre | Comments Off on Queens of Quirk, Sat Feb 4, 2017

CONCERT: Stuart Laughton, and Radio Dial, Fri Feb 3, 2017

Posted on December 19, 2016 by Editor

Friday February 3, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Reserve 905-543-8512 0r  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Stuart Laughton is back with his wonderful Radio Dial show, and lots of new material. The lineup for Feb 3 includes Rebecca Campbell (guitar/vocals), Jim Clayton (piano), Martin Worthy (drums), and Steve Lucas (bass), and of course, Stuart Laughton on trumpet, guitar, and many other instruments!
Why RADIO DIAL? Because on long car trips, Stuart scours the radio waves for interesting music, and wanted to bring a similarly eclectic presentation to the stage (think Stuart McLean’s Vinyl Café, with the speaking and musical proportions reversed). http://www.radiodial.ca/  It helps that Stuart sings and plays a dozen instruments, Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on CONCERT: Stuart Laughton, and Radio Dial, Fri Feb 3, 2017

The Distillery Blues Trio + Ginger St. James, Thurs Feb 2, 2017

Posted on December 16, 2016 by Editor

Thursday February 2, 2017, at 8 pm, $10. The Distillery is a blues trio from Toronto: Chloe Watkinson vocals, Neil Hendry acoustic and electric guitars, Jordan Safer harmonica, keys and lap steel guitar. Special guest Ginger St. James.
http://thedistilleryblues.com/ Their debut release What You Told Me won the 2012 Toronto Independent Music Award for Best Blues. The band was a finalist in the 2012 Toronto Blues Society Talent Search. A West Coast Canada tour and two US tours lead to the 2015 EP How We Carry On, followed by various festival performances (including JunoFest, Tremblant International Blues Festival, Lighthouse Blues Festival, Southside Shuffle, Canal Bank Shuffle, Toronto TD Jazz Festival, Barrie Jazz & Blues). The band’s latest three-song recording is now available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on The Distillery Blues Trio + Ginger St. James, Thurs Feb 2, 2017

Melissa Greener, singer-songwriter from Nashville, Wed Feb 1, 2017

Posted on December 15, 2016 by Editor

Wednesday February 1, 2017, at 8 pm, by donation $10/$5 students. Singer-songwriter Melissa Greener special concert! Melissa writes: “I am a Nashville based folk-rock crooner, singer-songwriter. Corin Raymond is a friend of mine who suggested I reach out about booking a show at the Artword Artbar. I’ve looked at your website and love your mission! I will be touring solo, but I’m not your average ‘girl with a guitar’. I play an electric hollowbody through a big dirty amplifier with lots of effects, in a vast sonic-wash that supports lyric-driven contemporary folk songs. I’ve been touring internationally for more than a decade playing clubs, theaters and festivals. I have released four full-length albums of original songs and a 5th is on the way. I’ve won some songwriting awards, and I was also a cast member on the syndicated tv series Troubadour TX. I was also good friends and co-writers with the great Guy Clark in the last years of his life.”  http://melissagreener.com/

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Melissa Greener, singer-songwriter from Nashville, Wed Feb 1, 2017

Emily Kemp and her band Monkley Cascade, Sat Jan 28, 2017

Posted on December 11, 2016 by Editor

Saturday January 28, 2017, at 8 pm, pwyc. Artword welcomes back vocalist Emily Kemp and her band Monkley Cascade:  Scott McIntosh on guitar, Tom Altobelli on bass, Jordan Snider on drums.
They will be playing a lively mix of Motown, blues, pop, funk and soul.

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on Emily Kemp and her band Monkley Cascade, Sat Jan 28, 2017

Andre Bisson & band, the Memphis Challenge Fundraiser, Fri Jan 27, 2017

Posted on December 11, 2016 by Editor

Friday January 27, 2017, at 8 pm, $15. Online ticketing: https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/16952/
Here’s the story: Andre Bisson and his band won the Grand River Blues Society Road to Memphis Competition to compete at the 2017 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee this February. This show is raising funds for the cost of the travel and accommodations to move a 6-piece band to Memphis for a week to compete and represent Canadian Blues.
A few days before they leave for the competition, the band will perform Andre’s original and cover arrangements with a 6-piece band at Artword Artbar. Come hear Andre’s upbeat Blues, R&B and Soul with heavy horns and rhythm!  www.andrebisson.ca
The Band for Jan 27: Andre Bisson vocals/guitar, Loretta Hale trumpet, Mike Albert tenor sax, Simon Wheeldon bari sax, Olivia Brown bass, Sean Bruce Parker drums.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on Andre Bisson & band, the Memphis Challenge Fundraiser, Fri Jan 27, 2017

Artword closed Dec 12-Jan 26, back Jan 27, 2017

Posted on December 5, 2016 by Editor

Artword Artbar is taking a break.
Last day of programming in 2016 is Sunday December 11, for our final matinee of our hit play Scroogissimo.
First day of programming in 2017 is Friday January 27, for a big fundraiser for the Andre Bisson Band who take off on a tour to Memphis. Showtime is 8 pm.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, News | Comments Off on Artword closed Dec 12-Jan 26, back Jan 27, 2017

THEATRE: Scroogissimo returns! In time for party season! Nov 29 to Dec 11

Posted on October 20, 2016 by Editor

November 29 to December 11, 2016, Tues to Sat at 8 pm, Sun mat at 2:30 pm. Tickets: Adults $25, Student $15, Child 14 and under $10. Tuesdays $10 at door. Please reserve (905-543-8512), as seating is limited. Or  BUY_tix_buttonBook online

WebArtword Theatre’s delightful Christmas comedy Scroogissimo returns for a third time to Artword Artbar, Nov 29 to Dec 11. Hamilton’s North End meets Charles Dickens in a wacky script by Ryan Sero and Charly Chiarelli, directed by Ronald Weihs. With the original cast!
A sell-out hit in 2013 and 2014, Scroogissimo features Charly as “Ebenezu Scroogi”, a Christmas-hating old Hamiltonian from Racalmuto, Sicily, who finds himself haunted by three ghosts of the Past, Present and Future.
Scroogissimo is performed by the original cast: Charly Chiarelli, Pamela Gardner, Paula Grove, Valeri Kay, Jon-Gordon Odegaard, and Jay Shand.
Musical support for Scroogissimo is provided by Tim Nijenhuis (keyboard), leader of the blues trio Beg to Differ.
(Cast photo by Adam Carter.)

Posted in Event, Theatre | Comments Off on THEATRE: Scroogissimo returns! In time for party season! Nov 29 to Dec 11

Bossa nova jazz, Angela Turone & Chris Platt, Sat Nov 26, 9:30

Posted on October 15, 2016 by Editor

angelaturone_chrisplatt_cSaturday November 26, 2016, at 9:30 pm (late show after performance of Princess), $10. The Bossa Duo, vocalist Angela Turone and jazz guitarist Chris Platt, perform original arrangements and interpretations of bossa nova and samba favourites, written by some of Brazil’s most venerated composers and lyricists.    http://chrisplattmusic.ca/          http://www.angelaturone.com/
Angela Turone, a graduate of the University of Toronto’s jazz performance Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Bossa nova jazz, Angela Turone & Chris Platt, Sat Nov 26, 9:30

THEATRE: Princess, a new play by Sky Gilbert, Nov 17 to 27

Posted on October 10, 2016 by Editor

anna-chatterton_cThurs-Sun Nov 17-20 and Thurs-Sun Nov 24-27, 2016. Thurs-Sat at 8 pm $15, Sun mats 2 pm pwyc. Princess, a Hammertheatre Production, is a new one-act play written and directed by Sky Gilbert. It stars Anna Chatterton (writer/performer in Quiver at Theatre Aquarius Studio) as Mary Beth, and Ralph Small as her father. A young woman meets her dad in a little cafe. We learn that she has cancer, and that her father neglected her is a child. But is that all the truth? Or are there other truths? As the confrontation grows deeper we learn some troubling things about the young woman, and we also learn that things are not quite what they seem. Mary Beth is an extreme young woman, but maybe her obsessions are not that different from someone you know. Not every little girl can be a princess, and not every little girl can be perfectly happy. Can you come to terms with that? With life?
The show runs 60 mins.
LATE SHOW, after Princess: On Saturday Nov. 26 at 9:30 pm, Brazilian Bossa Nova with vocalist Angela Turone, and guitarist Chris Platt.

Posted in Event, Theatre | Comments Off on THEATRE: Princess, a new play by Sky Gilbert, Nov 17 to 27

MacBush the Musical trailer

Posted on October 8, 2016 by Editor

Posted in Theatre | Comments Off on MacBush the Musical trailer

THEATRE: MacBush the Musical returns! In time for the election! Nov 1-13

Posted on September 27, 2016 by Editor

November 1 to 13, 2016. BACK for a 2-week run at Artword Artbar, in time for you-know-which election week! Tues-Sat 8 pm, Sun 2:30 pm. $25.00, or 2-show deal ($18 each)  BUY_tix_buttonBook online
MacBush, the Musical, by David L. Dawson and directed by Ronald Weihs, is a musical mash-up of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the George Bush administration.
macbush_2_cheney_powell_bush_rumsfeld_rice2You need to see this show! Here’s why:
“Tired of Trump, Hillary and the crew dispensing ‘Ain’t America Great’ on TV? Then go get a reality check at Artword Artbar, where Artword Theatre is offering hemlock and humour, stirred not shaken, in a bitter witches’ brew. … Sean Emberley stands out as a prog_macbush_8_saddam_binladen_ahmadinejad21look-alike for the grinning George Bush. Jon-Gordon Odegaard makes an exotic Osama bin Laden. And Will Gillespie and Allan Merovitz have fun with the roles of Rumsfeld and Cheney.  … Well worth seeing.” (Gary Smith, Hamilton Spectator, May 2016).
“This lively play… threads its laughs with an undeniably sinister undercurrent…  Jamila B.’s vocals are a treat…  she not only has good comedic timing but is eerie when she evokes Lady Macbeth.” (Allison Jones, View Magazine, May 2016)
prog_macbush_5_iraqi_woman2_c“Mixing clever, biting political satire…, showing how power corrupts and evil proliferates. … Two highlights of the show are Shavini Fernando’s portrayal of an Iraqi woman’s lament, …and Will Gillespie, as an ordinary soldier. Shand’s portrayal of Powell’s conflicts is memorable.” (Ellen Jaffe, Ont Arts Review, May 2016)
Who? Performed by seven accomplished singer-actors in the Artword Theatre Ensemble: Jamila Bello, Sean Emberley, Shavini Fernando, Will Gillespie, Allan Merovitz, Jon-Gordon Odegaard, Jay Shand.
Music direction and performance by Tim Nijenhuis, with percussion by Steve Foster.
Book and lyrics by David Laing Dawson. Music by Charles W. Humphreys.
Directed by Ronald Weihs. Design by Judith Sandiford.
Produced by Artword Theatre and Gallery on the Bay.
Ticket Prices? Wed to Sun $25 Call 905-543-8512, or book online BUY_tix_button
Tuesday Special all tickets $10 cash at door
When? November 1 to 13, 2016, Tues to Sat at 8 pm, Sun mat. at 2:30 pm
Where? Artword Artbar, 15 Colbourne Street, artword@artword.net

What is this show about? G. Dubya and his sidekicks Dickie, Rummy, Condi and Coley sing jaunty show tunes while they plan tactics of ‘shock and awe’. Songs sung by a soldier and an Iraqi woman reveal other viewpoints. With guest appearances by ‘Saddam Hussein’ and ‘Osama Bin Laden’ and ‘Ahmadinejad’ as witches, who have some chilling prophecies about our now current world crisis.

Posted in Event, News, Theatre | Comments Off on THEATRE: MacBush the Musical returns! In time for the election! Nov 1-13

Steel City Jazz Festival, Mike Malone Trio, Sun Oct 30 at 7:30

Posted on September 26, 2016 by Editor
mike-malone_img_5298cscjf_2016_logo_rSunday, October 30, 2016, 7:30 pm,. $15/$10 students. Book tickets online for Mike Malone Trio. 
Steel City Jazz Festival presents the Mike Malone Trio, featuring festival Artist-in-Residence Mike Malone on trumpet, with Adrean Farrugia on piano and Bob Shields on guitar. The SCJF Artist-in-Residence program is supported by Smordin Law. https://steelcityjazzfest.com/
Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival, Mike Malone Trio, Sun Oct 30 at 7:30

Steel City Jazz Festival, Jazz Vocalists double bill, The Ault Sisters & Aubrey Wilson, Sat Oct 29

Posted on September 25, 2016 by Editor

aubrey_wilson_0362cault_sisters_0306cSaturday October 29, 2016. 8 pm, $15/$10 students. Book tickets online Jazz Vocalists.
Steel City Jazz Festival presents a double bill of jazz vocalists: The Ault Sisters and the Aubrey Wilson Quartet.
The Ault Sisters: Amanda Ault, vocals; Alicia Ault, vocals; Alanna Ault, vocals; Tom Altobelli, bass; Chris Bruder, piano; Jordan Snider, drums. http://www.aultsisters.com/
Aubrey Wilson Quartet: Aubrey Wilson, vocals; Tom Altobelli, bass;scjf_2016_logo_r Chris Bruder, piano; Sean Bruce Parker, drums.  http://www.aubreywilsonmusic.com/

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival, Jazz Vocalists double bill, The Ault Sisters & Aubrey Wilson, Sat Oct 29

Steel City Jazz Festival: Rich Brown bass & Larnell Lewis drums, Fri Oct 28

Posted on September 24, 2016 by Editor

larnell_lewisrich_brown_bassistFriday October 28, 2016, at 8 pm, $15 / $10 students. Book tickets online for Lewis.Brown.
Steel City Jazz Festival presents Lewis.Brown, a new duo project: Larnell Lewis on drums and electronics, and Rich Brown on bass and electronics. https://steelcityjazzfest.com/
Rich Brown has been an active member of Toronto’s culturally diverse music scene since 1992. He has released 3 albums as a leader, and currently tours with New York based saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa. Rich has also lead his own bands rinsethealgorithm and The Abeng scjf_2016_logo_rand has appeared on over 60 recordings ranging from Jazz to Funk to Latin to traditional Asian and Arabic music.  https://www.facebook.com/Rich-Brown-electric-bassist-298278910378211/
Larnell Lewis describes his sound as an eclectic mix of fusion music inspired by Afro and Latin Caribbean sounds, RnB, soul and funk. He is a Toronto-born musician, composer, producer, educator and clinician. Often referred to as one of Canada’s most promising up and coming drummers, Lewis has been featured on the cover of Drums Etc, a national drumming magazine. Larnell has performed with various artists ranging from Fred Hammond, Lalah Hathaway, and Lisa Fischer, to Kellylee Evans, Molly Johnson, and Snarky Puppy.  http://www.larnelllewismusic.com/

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival: Rich Brown bass & Larnell Lewis drums, Fri Oct 28

Steel City Jazz Festival, Kite Trio + Brad Cheeseman Trio, Thurs Oct 27

Posted on September 23, 2016 by Editor

Kite_Trio3_c800Thursday October 27, 2016, at 8 pm. $15/$10 students. Book tickets online Kite Trio + Brad Cheeseman Trio.
Steel City Jazz Festival presents an evening of New Jazz Compositions, a double bill with Kite Trio from Montreal and Brad Cheeseman Trio from Toronto.
Kite Trio: Eric Couture, guitar; Eric Dew, drums; Paul Van Dyk, bass.  http://kitetrio.com
brad-cheeseman_680Brad Cheeseman Trio: Brad Cheeseman, bass;  Adrean Farrugia, piano; Adam Fielding, drums.

Kite Trio has a new album  Slightly Higher In Canada in the works. It was recorded over five days in May with producer Dave King, who helped them “capture raw, meaningful performances of 12 original compositions and one cover, with no overdubs or edits.” scjf_2016_logo_rHere is the link to their fundraiser page to finish the project. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2030573278/kites-new-album-produced-by-dave-king-help-us-rele

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival, Kite Trio + Brad Cheeseman Trio, Thurs Oct 27

Steel City Jazz Festival, Andrew Downing’s Otterville, Wed Oct 26

Posted on September 22, 2016 by Editor

andrew_downing_otterville_900Wednesday October 26, 2016, at 8 pm. $15/$10 students. Book tickets online Andrew Downing Otterville
Andrew Downing’s Otterville, scjf_2016_logo_ra co-production with Zula Presents and Steel City Jazz Festival. Andrew Downing, cello; Michael Davidson, vibraphone; Tara Davidson, alto saxophone; Paul Mathew, bass; Nick Fraser, drums. “The song-like compositions and the virtuosity of the musicians take a sweet and nostalgic snapshot of the slow passage of time in the country and the joys that can bring.” http://www.andrewdowning.com/projects.html

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Special event, Steel City Jazz Festival | Comments Off on Steel City Jazz Festival, Andrew Downing’s Otterville, Wed Oct 26

Bluegrass with New Cumberland, Sat Oct 22

Posted on September 8, 2016 by Editor

new_cumberland_2Saturday October 22, 2016, at 8 pm, $15. BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Back with more smokin’ hot bluegrass!
The New Cumberland bluegrass band from London Ontario: Tom Burns – vocals and guitar,  Blair Heddle – vocals, mandolin and dobro, Paul Hurdle – vocals and banjo, Tom Rutledge – string bass. Special guest for Oct 22 is multi-Juno award-winner John P. Allen on fiddle.
[To reserve call Artword Artbar 905-543-8512, or book online.]
Featuring inventive solo work, driving rhythms and three part vocal harmonies, New Cumberland’s musical integrity and joy in playing together resonates in every performance. http://newcumberlandband.com/

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on Bluegrass with New Cumberland, Sat Oct 22

Jazz with the Artie Roth Quartet, Friday Oct 21

Posted on September 7, 2016 by Editor

artie_roth_quartet_0895_c680Friday October 21, 2016, at 8 pm, $15 / $10 students. The Artie Roth Quartet performs new music from their recent album Discern. The Toronto-based jazz group: Artie Roth acoustic bass/compositions, Geoff Young electric guitar, Anthony Michelli drums, Mike Filice saxophone. Their music is aggressive, melodic and groovy, and at other times sublime and spacious. Full of catchy melodic hooks and bass lines, Discern is cutting-edge composing and improvisation influenced by Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter and Dave Holland. Discern was co-produced by Grammy nominated, Genie award winning New York/Hamilton-born producer Roman Klun at the historic Grant Avenue Studio in Hamilton, Ontario. As a leader, Artie released Parallels in 2005, Currently Experiencing in 2013 and released Discern in fall 2015.  www.artieroth.com

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz with the Artie Roth Quartet, Friday Oct 21

Jazz vocal jam w. Sue Ramsay Trio, Thurs Oct 20

Posted on September 6, 2016 by Editor

Sue_RamsayThursday October 20, 2016, at 8 pm, $10 /$5. Jazz vocalist Sue Ramsay hosts another of her jazz vocal jams, backed by Bob Shields on guitar, Adam Fielding on drums and Clark Johnston on stand-up bass. With some storytelling in the mix. Seasoned singers and students all welcome. Singers bring lead sheets please. Sue says: “I want to create an environment where singers can do their thing and promote whatever they’re working on.  And I get to try out new material and jam with my trio. I have often found being a singer is a lonely road. The path is not always clear but so much easier with a network of friends around.”  http://www.suzanne-ramsay.com/ .

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz vocal jam w. Sue Ramsay Trio, Thurs Oct 20

Scott Merritt, w. Jeff Bird, Sat Oct 15

Posted on September 5, 2016 by Editor

Scott Merritt_2_headv_3cadjSaturday October 15, 2016, at 8 pm, $15. (905-912-9083)
Scott Merritt is back on tour with the second pressing of his new record Of, with Jeff Bird (Cowboy Junkies) accompanying on upright bass and other instruments.
Scott_Merritt_coverOf_2295242The record Of received Best of 2015 from both Macleans: (… he uses his ukulele and little else—a pump organ, a clarinet, sparse upright bass courtesy of Cowboy Junkie Jeff Bird—to craft evocative vignettes and melodies … powerful in their hushed intimacy and quietly insistent rhythmic pulse.) And Slate: (It is a small, exquisite record played with glittering precision mostly on a tenor ukulele… The sound is ideal for these elusive, imagistic songs about memory and mortality. If you seek it out, it will take hold of you.)
http://www.scottmerritt.com/   Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Scott Merritt, w. Jeff Bird, Sat Oct 15

Jazz/blues/soul vocalist Siona Neale, Fri Oct 14

Posted on September 5, 2016 by Editor

Siona Neale_4574_cFriday October 14, 2016, 8 pm, $10. Hamiltonian Siona Neale sings jazz/blues/soul classics, as a duo with guitarist James Ruben. Remembrance is a key theme, with timeless songs by Nina Simone, Marvin Gaye, Etta James, Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald, and some originals. Whether singing about social justice or loss, joy or tragedy, Neale brings you to the heart of the matter, to the roots of the story behind the song. Neale has a dual career in Europe and Canada. “One of Canada’s most vibrant cultural exports” (Polish Canadian Embassy), Siona Neale captivates audiences with her magnetic energy, deep, dark voice, and sizzling moves. She easily navigates between her Caribbean and rock and roll, soulful North American heritages.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on Jazz/blues/soul vocalist Siona Neale, Fri Oct 14

Zula Presents: Samuel Blaser Quartet + Hübsch/Martel/Zoubek, Thurs Oct 13

Posted on September 4, 2016 by Editor

Thursday October 13, 2016, at 8 pm, $20. Zula Presents a concert in their fall line-up of new music. https://zulapresents.org/
samuelblaserquartet2-c680Samuel Blaser Quartet (Berlin/NY/Barcelona/Lucerne): Samuel Blaser trombone, Russ Lossing piano, Masa Kamaguchi bass, Gerry Hemingway drums. Swiss trombonist Samuel Blaser, known for blending progressive post-bop with early music, heads a tribute to the late, ever-stimulating jazz eccentric Jimmy Giuffre, with crack band which includes master drummer Gerry Hemingway.  “… the music on Spring Rain has something so incredibly refreshing and encouraging.” – Telerama    http://www.samuelblaser.com/projects/#quartet
zoumasch_cHübsch/Martel/Zoubek (Koln/Montreal): Carl Ludwig Hübsch tuba, objects; Pierre-Yves Martel viola da gamba, objects; Philip Zoubek prepared piano.
“Five rather quiet pieces, full of fine moments of tension, delicate surprises, bold sonic gestures carefully placed within the ensemble, in search of a tangible balance that is never taken for granted. Gorgeous.” — Francois Couture, Monsieur Delire (canada)
http://pymartel.com/hubsch-martel-zoubek

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on Zula Presents: Samuel Blaser Quartet + Hübsch/Martel/Zoubek, Thurs Oct 13

Shavini Fernando, jazz and K-pop, Wed Oct 12

Posted on September 3, 2016 by Editor

Shavini_Solo Show_680Wednesday, October 12, 2016, at 8 pm, $10 / $5 students. Shavini Fernando sings a solo evening of jazz standards (with some K-pop). Shavini is a vocalist, songwriter and a recent graduate of Mohawk College (Diploma of Applied Music with Honours). She also performed in Artword Theatre’s recent production of MacBush the Musical (returning this November).
Special guest Shahani Fernando will join her sister Shavini on the K-Pop (Korean pop) tunes.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Shavini Fernando, jazz and K-pop, Wed Oct 12

Corin Raymond’s Moving to Hamilton show, Sat Oct 8

Posted on August 27, 2016 by Editor

Corin_Raymond_3961251_cadSaturday October 8, 2016 at 8 pm, $15. Call 905-543-8512 to reserve. A concert by songwriter Corin Raymond, accompanied by Treasa Levasseur on accordion, keyboard and back-up vocals and Brian Kobayakawa on bass.
Corin writes: This is my We’re Movin’ to Hamilton! show. Me and my gal will be unloading into our Gibson home the following week.
Corin_Raymond+HoboJunglehjfd-coverCorin Raymond is a troubadour whose robust veracity appeals to older folks and children alike. Raymond’s latest album, Hobo Jungle Fever Dreams (released March 3rd, 2016) is “a hypnotic, literate collection of dark tall tales…. Romantic, immediate, and narcotic.” (Acoustic Guitar). Aside from the hilarious triumph of funding his previous project, double-album Paper Nickels, with Canadian Tire money, Raymond enjoys a second career performing his non-musical, one-man shows Bookworm (2011) and The Great Canadian Tire Money Caper (2014), which he has toured extensively to over a dozen Fringe and literary festivals, and to theatres in three countries.  http://www.corinraymond.com/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Corin Raymond’s Moving to Hamilton show, Sat Oct 8

Jazz, fusion, funk w. Nezqwik, Fri Oct 7

Posted on August 26, 2016 by Editor

NezqwikFriday, October 7, 2016, at 8 pm, $10 /$5. Nezqwik, a 7 piece band from Hamilton, plays jazz, hip hop, fusion, funk, R&B. They are inspired by Snarky Puppy, The Funky Knuckles, Lettuce, and various other groups of jazz-ish nature. Members: Aleef Mehdi guitar, Alex Teeuwsen drums, Dyheim Stewart guitar, Jaden Raso bass, Mark Bissessar trumpet, Tim Bangma tenor sax.  https://www.facebook.com/Nezqwik.Band/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz, fusion, funk w. Nezqwik, Fri Oct 7

Big Dance Little Stage, Wed & Thurs Oct 5 & 6, 8 pm

Posted on August 25, 2016 by Editor

Learie_BDLS_0196_cWednesday and Thursday, October 5 & 6, 2016, 8 pm, $10. The next edition of Big Dance Little Stage, our ongoing contemporary dance showcase series hosted by choreographer Learie Mc Nicolls. The BDLS showcases are an exciting opportunity for dancers to showcase new work, explore improvisations, and build new collaborations. Line-up includes a new work in progress by Lisa Emmons with dancer/violist Anthony Rapoport, a new work performed by Angela Del Franco, belly dance by Jackie Pullar and Nimmi Kalra-Brenzil (Wed only), Megan English with Dale Morningstar (Thurs only). Live visuals by Judith Sandiford.

Posted in Dance, Event | Comments Off on Big Dance Little Stage, Wed & Thurs Oct 5 & 6, 8 pm

Zula Presents: Nick Fraser Quartet, Sun Oct 2 at 2 pm

Posted on August 24, 2016 by Editor

NickFraserQuartet_57-ogSunday October 2, 2016, at 2 pm, $15. Zula Presents a concert in their fall line-up of new music. The Nick Fraser Quartet: Nick Fraser drums, Tony Malaby saxophones, Rob Clutton double bass, AndrewDowning cello.
The lifeblood of free jazz can be found in musicians’ efforts to push beyond existing habits and practices. They court the danger of the unknown and unpredictable. To that end, drummer Nick Fraser decided to cross swords with NYC free jazz saxophone titan Tony Malaby. The result is an album of strong playing by engaged players matching wits in real time, weaving their sounds together to make a whole cloth, not separate threads. Glen Hall, Exclaim!  https://zulapresents.org/
nickfraserthedrummer.com/projects.html

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Zula Presents: Nick Fraser Quartet, Sun Oct 2 at 2 pm

CANCELLED Sat Oct 1: Kitchen Orkestra & guests. Call us for more info 905-912-9083

Posted on August 23, 2016 by Editor

Kitchen+Ork+c2CANCELLED Saturday October 1, 2016, at 8 pm, $10. Sorry, but both bands cancelled out of this concert.
Kitchen Orkestra is an acoustic band that likes to dip into many styles, serving up sizzlin’ balkan melodies, cookin’ celtic tunes, and fresh original songs. They are coming to Artword Artbar as a quartet: Hayley Ryerson violin and voice, Felix Mills cajon and percussion, George Chenery upright bass, and Graham Mansfield mandolin. http://www.kitchenorkestra.com/
Opening the evening is Hamilton country singer-songwriter Mackenzie Hunter vocals & guitar, with her original songs, backed by AJ Astle bass, Chris Bray guitar, Sam Goswell drums (all members of the country cover band The Dukes).

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk, Music-World | Comments Off on CANCELLED Sat Oct 1: Kitchen Orkestra & guests. Call us for more info 905-912-9083

closed, no event, Fri Sept 30

Posted on August 22, 2016 by Editor

Friday, September 30, 2016. Closed. No event.

Posted in Event, News | Comments Off on closed, no event, Fri Sept 30

60s Folk Revival Sing-a-long, Thurs Sept 29

Posted on August 21, 2016 by Editor

Sue_and_Dwight_logoThursday September 29, 2016, at 8 pm, $15. Back by popular demand! BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone, a 60s Folk Revival sing-a-long concert, a 60s Folk Revival sing-a-long concert, with Sue Peters (vocals),  Michelle Rumball (vocals), Dwight Peters (vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars) and Tony Laviola (double bass). Imagine an evening that transforms the Artword Artbar into one of the 1960s coffeehouses of Yorkville or Greenwich Village. The lyrics have meaning, the voices are true and passionate in solo and in harmony, and the music inspires the audience to join in. Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone recreates the songs of hope and social justice, messages that still resonate today. The show covers the songs of the great singers and poets including Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Ian & Sylvia, Peter Paul and Mary, and Phil Ochs. Song-sheets are provided. http://wherehaveallthefolksongsgone.blogspot.ca/

Posted in Event, Music, Special event | Comments Off on 60s Folk Revival Sing-a-long, Thurs Sept 29

Harrison Kennedy, Roots en Route events at Artword, Wed Sept 28

Posted on August 20, 2016 by Editor

renr_logoRoots en Route Festival of World Music, Dance, Spoken Word, presented by Matapa in multiple venues. http://www.matapa.org/ and  http://rootsenroutefest.com/new-events/
Events at Artword Artbar:
harrison-kennedy-juno-2016_cWednesday, September 28, 2016, at 7:30 pm. Renowned blues artist Harrison Kennedy in the intimate cafe setting of Artword Artbar. Tickets $20.00 online at http://rootsenrouteharrisonkennedy.bpt.me/

Harrison Kennedy’s album This Is From Here was awarded the 2016 Blues Album of the Year at the 45th annual JUNO Awards. This was the 6th nomination for the Hamilton based artist.
Harrison grew up in a house filled with music and famous visitors such as Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday and Lonnie Johnson. In 1969 he took a hiatus from college to become a founding member of the million selling Detroit Soul super group The Chairmen of the Board with whom he toured the world, as well as appearing on Soul Train, American Bandstand and the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.
Since signing with Electro-Fi Records in 2007, Harrison Kennedy has released 5 internationally acclaimed albums Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Special event | Comments Off on Harrison Kennedy, Roots en Route events at Artword, Wed Sept 28

Trinite, Roots en Route events at Artword, Mon Sept 26

Posted on August 19, 2016 by Editor

renr_logoRoots en Route Festival of World Music, Dance, Spoken Word, presented by Matapa in multiple venues. http://www.matapa.org/ and  http://rootsenroutefest.com/new-events/
Events at Artword Artbar:
Dance-Trinite_cMonday, September 26, 2016, 8:30 pm. $20 (advance reserve 905-543-8512), $25 door. Trinite dance trio:
Nickeshia Garrick ,(Canada); Collette Murray (Canada);
Shelly Ann Mc Leod (Trinidad). These three women entertain and educate, through movement and song.

Posted in Dance, Event, Music, Music-World, Special event | Comments Off on Trinite, Roots en Route events at Artword, Mon Sept 26

Dance: Learie Mc Nicolls, Roots en Route at Artword, Sun Sept 25

Posted on August 18, 2016 by Editor

renr_logoRoots en Route Festival of World Music, Dance, Spoken Word, presented by Matapa in multiple venues. http://www.matapa.org/ and  http://rootsenroutefest.com/new-events/
Events at Artword Artbar:
artword_box_0990Sunday, September 25, 2016, 8 pm, $20 (advance reserve 905-543-8512), $25 door. Artword Theatre presents a dance double-bill:
Once I Lived in the Box (30-minute version) is choreographed by Learie Mc Nicolls, performed by dancers Angela Del Franco, Sharon Harvey, Tanis Macarthur and Learie Mc Nicolls. “Once I lived in the box/ hated the box/ loved the box/ respected the box/ got angry at the box… ” The piece is a sequence of trios, duets and solos, that reveal different aspects of isolation and connection, vulnerability and trust. Learie_McNicolls_0194_cThe full length version of this stunning work premiered at the Hamilton Fringe Festival 2016, to rave reviews.
The Parrot of Paradise is a Caribbean tale told in dance and spoken word, written and performed by Learie Mc Nicolls. This is the premiere of a new work. It tells a story of a individual chosen to tell a short tale of a particular incident on a particular island. The story draws on Learie’s own experience growing up in the Caribbean, and is partly autobiographical, partly historical. Duration 20 mins.

Posted in Dance, Event, Theatre | Comments Off on Dance: Learie Mc Nicolls, Roots en Route at Artword, Sun Sept 25

Hannah Shira Naiman, banjo + Niagara String Band, Sat Sept 24

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Editor

Hannah_Shira_Naiman_origcSaturday September 24, 2016, at 8 pm, $8 advance (905-543-8512), at door $10, $5 students. Hannah Shira Naiman, singer/banjoist from Toronto, brings you original songs, played on the clawhammer banjo, sung with the appalachian sound. “Songs not from the mountains, but from a rocky, rugged place.” Hannah stops by on her way to a Bluegrass festivalNiagara_String_Band_c in Virginia. http://www.hannahshiranaiman.com/music.html
Hannah has invited the Niagara String Band (Alex Andrews and Shawn Fehlow, R & L in photo), as special guests for the evening. The duo perform a range of musical styles popularized in the early 20th century, an eclectic repertoire drawn from old recordings and sheet music. They play a variety of instruments including guitar, upright bass, 5 and 6 string banjo, piano, mandolin, fiddle, and harmonica.  http://www.niagarastringband.com/

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk | Comments Off on Hannah Shira Naiman, banjo + Niagara String Band, Sat Sept 24

India to Scotland: Neeraj Prem & Ruth Sutherland, Roots en Route, Fri Sept 23

Posted on August 16, 2016 by Editor

renr_logoRuth_Sutherland+pic_cRoots en Route Festival of World Music, Dance, Spoken Word, presented by Matapa in multiple venues. http://www.matapa.org/ and  http://rootsenroutefest.com/new-events/
Events at Artword Artbar:
Neeraj+Prem_cFriday September 23, 2016, 8 pm, $25 door, $20 advance*. India to Scotland: Neeraj Prem and Ruth Sutherland.
 Neeraj Prem (sitar and vocals), originally from India, and Ruth Sutherland (Celtic harp and vocals), originally from Scotland, are both based in Hamilton now. The two musicians will share their musical roots and collaborate on stage for everyone to enjoy. *For advance tickets: call 289-700-9997, or 289-396-9906

Posted in Event, Music-World, Special event | Comments Off on India to Scotland: Neeraj Prem & Ruth Sutherland, Roots en Route, Fri Sept 23

Acoustic Moments, reggae concert & dinner, Sat Sept 17

Posted on August 14, 2016 by Editor

Jay_Mr._D.I.DSaturday September 17, 2016, doors 7:30 pm, dinner 8 pm, show 9 pm. Dinner and show $20 (must reserve), show only $10 at door.  Mr. Jay hosts another fabulous Riddim_Riders_Unplugged_cAcoustic Moments show & dinner, with world-class reggae music by The Riddim Riders and guests. Chef Learie Mc Nicolls will be cooking up some jerk chicken with rice and steam vegetables, Trinidad style. Vegetarian stir fry and vegetarian soup will also be available. Reserve seats for dinner before Sept. 13 (905-543-8512).

Posted in Event, Music, Music-World, Special event | Comments Off on Acoustic Moments, reggae concert & dinner, Sat Sept 17

Supercrawl special Jazz: Chris Maskell Quartet, Sun Sept 11, 2-4 pm

Posted on August 13, 2016 by Editor

Chris_Maskell_1X3A2601_cSunday September 11, 2016, afternoon 2 to 4 pm, $10 or by donation, students $5. Supercrawl special concert: Jazz with the Chris Maskell Quartet: Chris Maskell saxophone and compositions, Gentiane MG piano, Levi Dover bass, Louis-Vincent Hamel drums.
Chris Maskell is an emerging voice in the Montreal and Ottawa jazz scenes. As a recent graduate of the McGill University jazz program, he has had the chance to study with saxophonists such as Donny Kennedy, Frank Lozano and Remi Bolduc. At this performance, his group will present a mix of original music and jazz standards. The quartet is in Toronto on September 10th for a performance at the Toronto Undergraduate Jazz Festival.  chrismaskell.com

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Supercrawl special Jazz: Chris Maskell Quartet, Sun Sept 11, 2-4 pm

Supercrawl special, Blues w. Beg To Differ Trio, Sat Sept 10

Posted on August 12, 2016 by Editor

BegToDiffer2Saturday September 10, 2016, 8 pm, tip jar. Supercrawl special. An Artword favourite, the high-energy Beg To Differ Trio playing blues / jazz / funk — Tim Ninehouse on keyboards, vocals; Doug Sikma on guitar; Steve Foster on drums. Unique renditions of blues, jazz and funk songs, drawing from a large musical repertoire from early blues roots to jazzified contemporary songs. http://reverbnation.com/begtodiffertrio

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on Supercrawl special, Blues w. Beg To Differ Trio, Sat Sept 10

Supercrawl special, R&B / soul w. Andre Bisson and band, Fri Sept 9

Posted on August 11, 2016 by Editor

AndreBisson-0394-RR_cFriday September 9, 2016, 8 pm, $10. (Supercrawl weekend special concert at Artword Artbar.) Kicking off our Fall season, award-winning soul and R&B vocalist André Bisson and his band: André Bisson (vocals/guitar), Loretta Hale (trumpet), Simon Wheeldon (tenor sax), Mike Rowell (bass), Sean Bruce Parker (drums). Come see them off before their 6th UK Tour this September.
Website: http://www.andrebisson.ca/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/andreandthejtones
Since 2005, André Bisson has been performing his unique blend of R&B and Soul throughout the US, Canada, England, Wales & Ireland.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on Supercrawl special, R&B / soul w. Andre Bisson and band, Fri Sept 9

closed to Sept 8

Posted on August 7, 2016 by Editor

Artword Artbar is closed from July 24 to Sept 8, 2016. Contact us by email artword@artword.net.

Posted in Event, News | Comments Off on closed to Sept 8

“the best thing you see at the Fringe this year” review by Amos Crawley

Posted on July 21, 2016 by Editor

Once I Lived in the Box
Review by Amos Crawley, Published July 20, 2016   https://raisethehammer.org/fringe/2988/once_i_lived_in_the_box

Once I Lived In The Box is a dire warning. It’s a tired and nearly, nearly defeated voice crying out in the middle of a windy, terrifying night. It is by turns haunting, sensual, humorous, distant and visceral. Like the Otis Redding version of A Change Is Gonna Come that scores a marvelous solo, it’s a show that never once apologizes for the pain of being alive.

It is a shared experience in that way – it’s us who are being warned: STOP! We hold on to our faked generosity, our small ownerships, our secret hate for dear life as if we ourselves are not part of a continuum-as if we do not all break the same way.

The show begins with the razor edge feeling of a situation that can’t possibly end well. Then quickly we are in the hustle and bustle of a life where life is that which gets swept away-hidden.

The show moves for the most part with the undeniable pulse of heartbreak. We are perhaps doomed and our inner turmoil is a result of the lack of faith we put in one another, of a true generosity of spirit. That’s the price we all gotta pay. Isn’t it a pity?

Mc Nicolls and his gifted, dedicated performers unselfishly make the political personal so that at the turn of a phrase or a fade in the music (the evening is accompanied by some of the most exquisite music of the 20th century) we have gone from the world at large to the most intimate trials and tribulations of a love affair.

It may be a warning, but it is not a hopeless warning. There is always joy available. We’re gonna end up in a box anyhow-why live in one too?

It may be a warning. It may also be the best thing you see at the Fringe this year.

Amos Crawley is an actor, director and acting instructor who lives in East Hamilton with his wife, actor and director Cadence Allen, and their young son.

Posted in Dance, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on “the best thing you see at the Fringe this year” review by Amos Crawley

“Visceral, raw strength…” “passionately and creatively written and performed”

Posted on July 21, 2016 by Editor

Once I Lived in the Box Review in View Magazine July 21 2016 by Heather Baer

Visceral, raw strength are words which came to mind while watching Once I Lived in the Box, a full-length dance work passionately and creatively written and performed by awarding winning choreographer Learie Mc Nicolls. Joining him are four beautiful women (Jamila Bello, Angela Del Franco, Sharon Harvey, and Tanis Macarthur) equally talented in their own right and each having a background in various movement forms from hip-hop to yoga and everything in between.

Once I Lived in the Box was inspired by a 10 page poem of the same name written by Mc Nicolls (“…because I have a lot to say”, quips Mc Nicolls when asked at a Q&A session after opening night) and reveals issues of vulnerability and trust as show through a series of solos, duets and quartets interwoven around, in, on and through movable pieces of “the box”.

The passion for and commitment to the piece and to their craft was expressed by the artists in every move from the fluid cadence of limbs to the exact placement of fingers as well as tell-tale glances and nods sometimes working in harmony and other times in opposition.

Come and enjoy this unique exposition. The artistry continues for the rest of the weekend at Artword Artbar.

Posted in Dance, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on “Visceral, raw strength…” “passionately and creatively written and performed”

Gary Smith rave reviews for Box and Toller

Posted on July 16, 2016 by Editor

Out there on the Fringe: Three plays that take us on a journey of discovery
Gary Smith  The Hamilton Spectator, 16 Jul 2016
Gary Smith has written on theatre and dance for The Hamilton Spectator for more than 30 years.

There’s diversity on The Fringe. Take Once I Lived in the Box, a contemporary dance drama that asks you to feel drama through movement. Or Toller, a second look at a troubled genius who made skating look easy and life look hard. And then there’s Anybody Else, Ryan Sero’s biting comedy about art versus commercial success. Even Sigmund Freud turns up in that one.
These are three distinctly different, but compelling human journeys that tell us we’re alive and thinking somewhere on The Fringe.

artword_box_0990Once I Lived in the Box is an intimate, intensely personal dance drama where movement says what words cannot. Learie Mc Nicolls and four outstanding female performers take us to the edge of personal discovery, forcing us to escape theatrical stereotypes and confront our personal psyches. Mc Nicolls’ choreography gives his dancers freedom to express who they are; each being a different and skilled artist who lets movement take her to a private, enigmatic place.
Angela Del Franco, statuesque and lean, has something of a Martha Graham sensibility about her, warm and cool at the same time. Sharon Harvey is a compact firebomb of a dancer who eats space. And somewhere in between such polarities is Tanis Macarthur, a pale presence who moves like a spectre connecting this world with some other time and place.
Mc Nicolls’ world of demons and darlings, set free in a performance that’s honest and pure, is enticing. And when the man himself puts on his familiar black derby he moves like a cross between a Bengal tiger and some latter day Mr. Bojangles: pure honey dripping from a spoon. Jamila Bello adds occasional words of wisdom via spoken raplike passages that bookend the performance.
Sophisticated and startling, Once I Lived in the Box plays at Artword Artbar, 15 Colbourne St., July 19 to 22 at 9 p.m. and Sat. July 23 at 6 and 9 p.m.

Back in Hamilton for a second time is Sky Gilbert’s poetic drama Toller. If you missed it before, this is a perfect chance to catch one of the best works of the season. A tortured genius, Toller Cranston was a remarkable painter and a brilliant ice skater. He was a man who saw life through the opposite end of the telescope. His own emotions, sexual identity and theatrical attitude were simply part of his genius and Gilbert’s play. Here is a dazzling picture of the artist as a troubled human being. Imaginatively directed by Gilbert, and acted with great understanding and simplicity by David Tomlinson, Toller is luminous. It’s something Hamilton Fringe should be proud of. It’s at Artword Artbar, July 16 at 4 and 8 p.m. and July 17 at 2 p.m. For goodness sake, go see it. Continue reading →

Posted in Dance, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on Gary Smith rave reviews for Box and Toller

DANCE: Once I Lived in the Box, FRINGE: July 19, 20, 21, 22, 23

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Editor

FRINGE LOGO 2016_c Artword_Box_July2016_8x11posterSIX SHOWS: Tues- Fri July 19-22, 2016, at 9:00 pm; Sat July 23 at 6:00 & 9:00 pm. Running time 60 minutes.
Tickets $10: hamiltonfringe.ca/tickets/
or at door.
Artword Theatre presents Once I Lived in the Box, a dance work by Learie Mc Nicolls,  for the 2016 Hamilton Fringe Festival.Box_P1270889_c Dancer and choreographer Learie Mc Nicolls has created a full-length dance piece about vulnerability and trust. The piece is danced by Angela Del Franco, Sharon Harvey, Tanis Macarthur, Jamila Bello and Learie Mc Nicolls, in a sequence of trios, duets and solos, that reveal different aspects of isolation and connection. Judith Sandiford is producer and lighting designer. Box_P1270852_c
“Once I lived in the box/ hated the box/ loved the box/ respected the box/ got angry at the box… ”

Photos right are from the presentation at Artword Artbar in Feb 2016.
REVIEW: “Learie Mc Nicolls’ newest creation, Once I Lived in the Box, at Artword Artbar [Feb 3, 4 and 5, 2016], was a powerful, yet intimate, piece of choreography… This piece touched the heart. I hope it will be remounted; it deserves a longer run and a larger audience.” Ellen Jaffe, Ontario Arts Review

Posted in Dance, Event, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on DANCE: Once I Lived in the Box, FRINGE: July 19, 20, 21, 22, 23

Sky Gilbert’s Toller, Hamilton Fringe Fest, July 14, 15, 16, 17

Posted on June 9, 2016 by Editor

Toller_DBTomlinson_crThurs July 14 & Fri July 15 at 8 pm, Sat July 16 at 4 & 8 pm, Sun July 17 at 2 pm. Tickets $10: Hamilton Fringe website (http://hamiltonfringe.ca/tickets/) or at the door.
Venue: Artword Artbar, BYOV.
TOLLER, about figure-skater Toller Cranston. The play, premiered in November 2015 at Artword, is written and directed by Sky Gilbert, produced by hammertheatre, and stars David Benjamin Tomlinson in the role of Toller. The play is a fictional one-act presentation in which Toller Cranston muses on his life and times. It is inspired by Cranston’s 1997 memoir Zero Tollerance: An Intimate Memoir by The Man That Revolutionized Figure Skating. Toller Cranston died suddenly in 2015 at a relatively young age of 65. The Olympic Bronze medalist, born in Hamilton, was always a controversial figure. Sky Gilbert considers Toller Cranston as an historical gay figure much in the ‘old school closeted’ style of Noel Coward and Liberace. Uncomfortable with gay liberation, Cranston instead preferred to position himself as a creative outsider rather than as a homosexual.

Gary Smith (Hamilton Spectator) chose “Toller” as one of the Ten Best of 2015: Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Hamilton Fringe Theatre Fest, Theatre | Comments Off on Sky Gilbert’s Toller, Hamilton Fringe Fest, July 14, 15, 16, 17

Smiling Jack Smith, Sue Leonard, Cindy Dell, Michael J. Birthelmer, Sun July 10, at 3 pm

Posted on June 6, 2016 by Editor

smiling-jack-smith_adj3Sunday July 10, 2016, from 3 to 6 pm, $15 door / $10 advance 905-543-8512. BUY_tix_buttonBook advance tix online
Spend a special Sunday afternoon with blues singer-songwriter Smiling Jack Smith, “Spain’s blues poet”, visiting Canada on tour from his home base in Spain. SueLeonard_CindyDell_cJack heads up a celebration of song with his good friends local musicians Sue Leonard, Cindy Dell (of Perfect Strangers) and Michael J. Birthelmer, master guitarist, songwriter and story-teller.
Smiling Jack has been writing and singing his songs in a career that spans five decades and three continents. He has played folk songs with The Smith Brothers in New York (with lead guitar Stan Jay), folk-rock in Vancouver (with players like Joe Mock, Pat Coleman, Ed Patterson and Robbie King), country in Florida (with T.C. Carr on harmonica) and blues in Europe and Australia (with David Gwynn, Antonio Serrano and Jim Finn). http://www.smilingjacksmith.com/
Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-folk, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Smiling Jack Smith, Sue Leonard, Cindy Dell, Michael J. Birthelmer, Sun July 10, at 3 pm

R&B, Motown, Soul w. Andre Bisson and band, Sat July 9

Posted on June 5, 2016 by Editor

Andre_Bisson_1c680Saturday July 9, 2016, 8 pm, $10. Back for a hot night! Award-winning soul and R&B vocalist André Bisson on guitar, vocals; Loretta Hale, trumpet; Aaron Bowers  tenor sax; Simon Wheeldon, bari sax; Mike Rowell, bass, Sean Bruce Parker, drums. Catch the band before they head out on their Left With the Blues Across Canada Tour.
Website: http://www.andrebisson.ca/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/andreandthejtones
Since 2005, André Bisson has been performing his unique blend of R&B and Soul throughout the US, Canada, England, Wales & Ireland.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues | Comments Off on R&B, Motown, Soul w. Andre Bisson and band, Sat July 9

Danielle Knibbe Trio, plus Hanna Bech & Marie Avery, Fri July 8

Posted on June 4, 2016 by Editor

Danielle_Knibbe_Trio_cFriday July 8, 2016, at 8 pm, $10 /pwyc. Headlining the evening is singer-songwriter Danielle Knibbe and her country-tinged folk trio (Bryn Besse guitar and Connor Walsh bass). “Combining bittersweet vocals, aching lyrics, and indelible melodies, with the tight instrumental and vocal harmony of her small ensemble, Danielle Knibbe and her trio are making their mark on the Canadian music scene. With upright bass, two guitars, and three-part harmony, their deftly crafted songs win, and then all too often, break your heart.” In June of 2016, she is releasing her first full-length album, titled Some Curious Birds.   www.danielleknibbe.ca
Hanna_Bech_bonesMarie_AveryOpening the show, Hamilton’s own Hanna Bech and Marie Avery are teaming to bring you fresh arrangements of their whimsical piano-pop favourites, as well as debuting some new tunes.
Hanna Bech‘s songs are “a perfect balance of tongue-in-cheek lyrics and a melody that you will be whistling for the rest of the day.” (stitchedsound.com/album-review-hanna-bech-naked-bones).
Marie Avery takes on a myriad of emotional tones with candour. Her song structures may be adventurous, but there are no shortage of hooks.
www.hannabech.com          www.marieavery.com

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Danielle Knibbe Trio, plus Hanna Bech & Marie Avery, Fri July 8

Latin music: Fito Molina and Jorge Gavidia, Thurs July 7

Posted on June 3, 2016 by Editor

fito_molina_3_cJorge_Gavidia_cThursday July 7, 2016, 8 pm, $10. Fito Molina and Jorge Gavidia are two Latino musicians who fuse the traditional folk sounds of Latin America with the Afro-Caribbean heritage and some hints of jazz. Together they bring a repertoire that will take you on a journey through the different regions of this big continent.
Fito Molina started his career as a musician in his native El Salvador. He was a member of Cayaguanca, a band that focused on Central American traditional music and which performed throughout Costa Rica and Panama. In Canada, he plays with several Latin American bands and is also known as a songwriter whose lyrics speak of social issues and personal experiences. www.fitomolina.com
Jorge Gavidia is a multi-instrumentalist (guitar, tres, mandolin, piano and upright bass), performer, teacher and composer who specializes in jazz and Latin music. He has played in many different bands in genres including jazz, Latin, rock, folk, blues, hip hop and electronic music. He is currently living in Toronto and is active as a guitar and theory teacher. He also performs on the guitar and cuban tres in his own jazz quartet, is the leader of the band Storyville Project, and is also part of a duo with vocalist Sarah Begin. http://www.jorgegavidiamusic.com

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz, Music-Latin | Comments Off on Latin music: Fito Molina and Jorge Gavidia, Thurs July 7

Singer-songwriters Marion M.E. Law and Sarah Farr, Sat July 2

Posted on June 2, 2016 by Editor

Marion_ME_Law_2Saturday July 2, 2016, $12 advance, $15 door. BUY_tix_buttonBook advance tix online
Marion (M.E.) Law, a talented Canadian folk artist currently living in San Diego, is Sarah_Farr_cplaying at Artword Artbar on her way to the Canterbury Folk Festival in Ingersol. Local singer-songwriter Sarah Farr (photo right) will perform an opening set.       www.original-m-e.com/     https://www.facebook.com/marion.law.16
Canadian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Marion (m.e.) Law has been entertaining audiences around the world since 1978. From sold-out house concerts to Canadian folk festivals, Baja beach concerts to Tokyo bars, m.e.’s work has gained an international following. She has recorded four CDs, and her music credits range from documentary film to reality TV to a George Romero zombie film.
Sarah Farr first picked up a guitar after moving to Canada a little over 10 years ago. Raised in the relatively small town of Ipswich, England, she fell in love with the creative nature of Hamilton and was inspired to put pen to paper, initially in the form of poetry and spoken word. A short time later, she discovered the strings of her guitar were tools capable of weaving her stories into songs.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-songwriters Marion M.E. Law and Sarah Farr, Sat July 2

Jazz w. North Pandemic Groove, quartet from Japan, Thurs June 30

Posted on May 30, 2016 by Editor

npg_IMG_6786_cThursday June 30, 2016, 8 pm, $15 reg/$10 students. BUY_tix_buttonBook tickets online
NorthPandemicGroove_Takezo_Yamada_680Jazz, funk and fusion with jazz festival winners North Pandemic Groove, performing at Artword Artbar as part of their Ontario festival tour. Band members Takezo Yamada (trumpet) (photo right), Taihei Kuroda (drums), Shunsuke Ochi (bass), Kudo Takuto (keyboard/piano) are all in their twenties and come from the northern island of Hokkaido in Japan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpk7PKZcCO8NorthPandemicGroove_Poster Hamilton2
Every year the winners of the Sapporo Jazz Festival Competition are invited to perform at the Toronto Jazz Festival. In 2016 North Pandemic Groove returns for a second year, with pianist Kudo Takuto joining them. They will perform in the Youth Jazz Showcase in Nathan Phillips Square at 12:30 (noon) on Saturday, July 2. They will also tour Eden Mills June 26, Midland June 29, Hamilton (Artword Artbar) June 30, and Humber College July 1. Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Special event | Comments Off on Jazz w. North Pandemic Groove, quartet from Japan, Thurs June 30

The CAROUSEL Paper Roadshow, Wed June 29

Posted on May 28, 2016 by Editor

CAROUSEL36_cover_RGB700Wednesday June 29, 2016, 8 pm, free admission. The CAROUSEL Paper Roadshow. CAROUSEL, an innovative and beautifully designed art/lit journal, is taking it on the road this summer — getting out of Toronto and touring to 8 cities across Ontario, to introduce audiences to the bold spirit of this unique journal. http://blog.carouselmagazine.ca/2016-summer-tour/
Artword Artbar is the official Hamilton stop! They will be launching both CAROUSEL 36 (the latest 88-page issue), and the new, spin-off experimental comic strip anthology, 4PANEL 1.
Hosting the evening is CAROUSEL editor and 4PANEL curator Mark Laliberte. Readers and performers include: Laura Furster, Jim Johnstone, Robin Richardson, Marc di Saverio, Sam Shelstad, with an experimental music/sound performance by Toronto-based multi-disciplinary artist W.A. Davison.  You can pick up some wonderfully designed paper treasures: $10 for CAROUSEL 36, $15 for 4PANEL 1. Discounted subscriptions to the magazine will also be available.  http://carouselmagazine.ca/

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word, Music | Comments Off on The CAROUSEL Paper Roadshow, Wed June 29

Something Else Festival of Creative Music: Alexander Hawkins Trio, Sat June 25

Posted on May 21, 2016 by Editor

16seposterpdftoAlexHawkinsSaturday, June 25, 2016, at 8 pm, $15: https://www.picatic.com/u/359727/events
Email: cem@zulapresents.org http://zulapresents.org/. The Alexander Hawkins Trio. Part of The Something Else Festival of Creative Music, 2016, hosted by Zula Presents and Cem Zafir.
Neil Charles, double bass, Alexander Hawkins, piano, compositions, Harris Eisenstadt drums.
‘Hawkins is a unique presence in music; not bound by conventional thinking or the typical forces that guide trio playing. He looks through the music to a place that is, frankly, unfathomable to many musicians and listeners’.
http://alexanderhawkinsmusic.com/alexander-hawkins-trio.html

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Special event | Comments Off on Something Else Festival of Creative Music: Alexander Hawkins Trio, Sat June 25

Jazz w. Brad Cheeseman Group, Friday June 24

Posted on May 20, 2016 by Editor

Brad_Cheeseman_Group_cFriday June 24, 2016, at 8 pm, $10. The Brad Cheeseman Group performs music from their 2015 self-titled album. Brad Cheeseman – electric bass, Robert Chapman – guitar, Sam Kogen – piano/keys, Marito Marques – drums, Chelsea McBride – tenor sax. Melody-driven compositions, exciting performances and a compelling group dynamic permeate the Brad Cheeseman Group’s self-titled debut. Brad Cheeseman Group reached #8 on Earshot!’s National Jazz Charts, receives regular airplay on Toronto’s JazzFM, and was nominated for “Best Jazz Instrumental” at the 2015 Toronto Independent Music Awards and “Jazz Recording of the Year” at the 2016 Hamilton Music Awards. The Brad Cheeseman Group has been blending the rich language of jazz with elements of rock, R&B, fusion and other styles since 2012.
www.bradcheeseman.com
http://bradcheeseman.bandcamp.com/

Posted in Event | Comments Off on Jazz w. Brad Cheeseman Group, Friday June 24

“Open Mic for Open Streets” Sun June 19, from 11 am to 4 pm

Posted on May 18, 2016 by Editor

OpenStreets2016_RGBSunday June 19, 2016, from 11 am to 4 pm. Free. Artword Artbar’s traditional “Open Mic for Open Streets“, at the corner of Colbourne and James, hosted by Ron the Fiddler. We will bring out our sound system and a guitar or two. Roll on by and sing a song or play a tune or two.
Part of the Open Streets Festival. http://openstreetshamilton.ca/

Posted in Event, Special event | Comments Off on “Open Mic for Open Streets” Sun June 19, from 11 am to 4 pm

Something Else Festival of Creative Music, THE THING, Sat June 18, 8 & 10 pm

Posted on May 17, 2016 by Editor

16sefestcardbackflat16seposterpdftoSaturday June 18, 2016. The Something Else Festival of Creative Music, 2016, hosted by Zula Presents and Cem Zafir. Tickets and Passes: $15 single concert, Pass 3-pack $35 , Pass 4-pack $45, Pass full festival $75. https://www.picatic.com/u/359727/events
Email: cem@zulapresents.org
http://zulapresents.org/

8 to 9:30 pm: The Thing (Stockholm, Austin, Oslo): Mats Gustafsson saxophones, Ingebrigt Håker Flaten double bass, and Paal Nilssen-Love drums. http://thethingrecords.com/
Plus an opening set by Thomson-Vorvis Duo: Scott Thomson trombone and Jack Vorvis drums.The-Thing-by-Petra-Cvelbar-1024x6815283aa026acbf

10 to 11:30 pm: The Thing (Stockholm, Austin, Oslo): Mats Gustafsson saxophones, Ingebrigt Håker Flaten double bass, and Paal Nilssen-Love drums. Plus an opening set by Plinc Plonc: Jean Derome – alto saxophone, flutes, small keyboard, objects, voice; Pierre Tanguay – drums, voice.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Special event | Comments Off on Something Else Festival of Creative Music, THE THING, Sat June 18, 8 & 10 pm

Something Else Festival of Creative Music, Out Louds 6 pm, Castor et Compagnie 8 pm, Luc Ex’ Assemblée 10 pm, June 17

Posted on May 16, 2016 by Editor

16seposterpdfto16sefestcardbackflatFriday June 17, 2016. The Something Else Festival of Creative Music, 2016, hosted by Zula Presents and Cem Zafir. Tickets and Passes: $15 single concert, Pass 3-pack $35 , Pass 4-pack $45, Pass full festival $75. https://www.picatic.com/u/359727/events
Email: cem@zulapresents.org http://zulapresents.org/

Events at Artword Artbar, 15 Colbourne Street
Call 905-543-8512 or email artword@artword.net

Friday, June 17, 2016:

6 to 7:30 pm: Festival Opening: The Out Louds (San Fransicso / NY): Ben Goldberg clarinet, Mary Halvorson guitar, Tomas Fujiwara drums. Opening set: Scott Thomson tromboneCastor_et_compagnie_am_037

8 to 9:30 pm: Castor et Compagnie (Montreal): Joane Hétu saxophone, voice, Jean Derome reeds, flute, voice, Diane Labrosse keyboards, Pierre-Yves Martel bass, Pierre Tanguay drums. http://www.actuellecd.com/en/cat/am_037/  luc-exassemblc3a9e-c-francesca-patella-c

10 to 11:30 pm: Luc Ex’ Assemblée (Amsterdam / NY / Chicago): Ab Baars tenor saxophone, Ingrid Laubrock tenor saxophone,  Luc Ex – acoustic bass, Hamid Drake drums.  https://www.lucex.nl/cms/assemble

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz, Special event | Comments Off on Something Else Festival of Creative Music, Out Louds 6 pm, Castor et Compagnie 8 pm, Luc Ex’ Assemblée 10 pm, June 17

Big Dance, Little Stage, w. Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed-Thurs June 15-16

Posted on May 15, 2016 by Editor

Learie_McNicolls_BDLS_Apr21_2016_0094Wednesday June 15 and Thursday June 16, 2016, at 8 pm, $10. Choreographer/dancer Learie Mc Nicolls curates and hosts edition #11 of Big Dance, Little Stage, an evening of contemporary dance works for a small stage. An exciting opportunity for dancers to showcase new work, explore improvisations, and build new collaborations . Line-up: Jamila B. movement, Jackie Pullar and Nimmi Kalra-Brenzil, belly dance, Susan Robinson and Will Gillespie (dance and music), Julia Garlisi dance. Live visuals by Judith Sandiford.  Learie Mc Nicolls performs a new solo dance work-in-development “The Night Journey”, with recorded tracks by bassist Wilbert de Joode, about “sinking deep into your unconscious and bringing what you find there up to the surface.”

Posted in Dance, Event | Comments Off on Big Dance, Little Stage, w. Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed-Thurs June 15-16

Latin Jazz with vocalist Elizabeth Rodriguez and band, Sat June 11

Posted on May 12, 2016 by Editor

Eli_Herrera_band_cbb6Elizabeth_Herrera_Rodriguez_7146_cSaturday, June 11, 2016, at 8 pm, $10 reg / $5 students. We are pleased to have this wonderful jazz performer back at Artword Artbar — Cuban vocalist and violinist Elizabeth Rodriguez and her band Eli’s Quartet. Band members: Elizabeth Rodriguez voice and violin, Jose Hernandez drums, Devin Patten bass, John Imre piano. Elizabeth will perform some Cuban classics, a lot of Brazilian tunes, including Antonio Carlos (Tom) Jobim songs, and American jazz standards with some Latin arrangements. Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Music-Latin | Comments Off on Latin Jazz with vocalist Elizabeth Rodriguez and band, Sat June 11

Jazz with Chris Wallace’s Many Names Trio, Friday June 10

Posted on May 11, 2016 by Editor

Chris_Wallace_cFriday June 10, 2016, at 8 pm, $15 / $10 students. Jazz with Chris Wallace‘s Many Names Trio: Adrean Farrugia on piano, Artie Roth on bass, Chris Wallace on drums. They will be exploring original compositions by each of the three members of the trio as well as playing some classic piano trio jazz standards.
Chris Wallace, a drummer and composer originally from Regina, lived a decade in Edinburgh, Scotland Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz with Chris Wallace’s Many Names Trio, Friday June 10

Psychedelic jazz fusion, Doug Murphy, Thur June 9

Posted on May 10, 2016 by Editor

Doug Murphy_c5014_2Doug_Murphy_June9_2016_PicsArt_06-05-07.29.16_aThursday June 9, 2016, 8 pm, $10 reg / $5 students. A return appearance of “It Is What It Is” — fusion psychedelic jazz featuring the far-out fabulous Doug Murphy on guitar. All original compositions, mostly by Doug himself. Also some free-form improvisations. The band includes Mike Ricci sax and flute, Oscar Galbraith drums, Alana Gunn bass, and more, including fire-spinner Katelyn Rae. Opening set by percussionist Steph Thorsteinson (kill the oppressor).

.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Psychedelic jazz fusion, Doug Murphy, Thur June 9

Singers Playground Workshop w Micah Barnes, Sat June 4, 1 to 5 pm

Posted on May 7, 2016 by Editor

Micah_Barnes_cSaturday June 4, 2016, 1:00 to 5:00 pm, workshop. Singers Playground Workshop w Micah Barnes, Micah writes: “While performing in Hamilton, I’ll will be coaching a workshop! Please do tell your pals!” Former Nylon and founder of Singers Playground will be covering the proper warm up, smart technique, performance technique and overcoming stage fright in this special four-hour workshop. $45
Bring a song to sing and receive one-on-one coaching!
Info on Micah’s coaching here: http://www.singersplayground.com

Posted in Event, Special event | Comments Off on Singers Playground Workshop w Micah Barnes, Sat June 4, 1 to 5 pm

Micah Barnes “New York Stories”, Fri & Sat, June 3 & 4

Posted on May 6, 2016 by Editor

micah_barnes_albumFriday June 3 and Saturday June 4, 2016, at 8 pm. $15 advance / $20 at the door. Two shows!   BUY_tix_buttonBook advance tix online
The fabulous chart-topping jazz singer-songwriter Micah Barnes is returning to Artword Artbar for a two-show run of his New York Stories. His critically acclaimed disc New York Stories (eOne Music) is a personal ode to romance in the City That Doesn’t Sleep. Inspired by the classic songwriting of Fats Waller, George Gershwin, Cole Porter and Irving Berlin, this self-penned song cycle takes the listener on a journey through Manhattan’s musical history including the Cotton Club, the Apollo Theatre, Broadway and late night jazz clubs.
New York Stories was conceived while Barnes was romancing his partner who was working on Broadway at the Palace Theatre. Their apartment was on Lenox Avenue in Harlem, right on the site of the legendary Savoy Ballroom, and just a few blocks from Apollo Theatre. Micah decided to make the most of the musical and romantic inspiration and rented an hourly piano studio off Times Square to sketch the songs that would become New York Stories. These songs are inspired by the composers writers who created so many of the classic jazz, Broadway and pop songs in those very piano studios.   http://www.micahbarnes.com
Micah Barnes began his career as Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz, Special event | Comments Off on Micah Barnes “New York Stories”, Fri & Sat, June 3 & 4

Big Fat Greek Jewish Music Night, Thurs June 2

Posted on May 5, 2016 by Editor

Friends_ofMarkosThe_HorablesThursday June 2, 2016, at 8 pm, $15, $10 students/seniors. Big Fat Greek Jewish Music Night: The Horables and Friends of Markos bring you a night of Klezmer and Rebetiko. They will be swapping scales, musical instruments and languages. Come for the Hora and stay for the Hassapiko. The Horables play Klezmer, Django style jazz, polkas, Gypsy dance tunes, rags from the age of steam and the occasional Cajun tune just to scare the horses. The Friends of Markos play an exciting and fun mix of Greek and Aegean-area music, focusing on traditional rebetiko, a Greek style of urban folk that features catchy bouzouki leads and powerful nine-beat rhythms. www.thehorables.com        www.thefriendsofmarkos.weebly.com

The Friends of Markos band members: Michael Kaler bouzouki and vocals, Michaelangelo Iafalldano vocals, baglama, clarinet and percussion, Rachel Melas upright bass, accordion and violin, Conny Nowe guitar, vocals and mandolin, Mark Zurawinski percussion.

The Horables band members: Rachel Melas has spent decades playing bass in various bands, and decided that she liked Klezmer music so much that she would learn a whole new instrument to play it. Conny Nowe is rhythm guitarist in Swamperella, and has been playing Klezmer and Old Time music on the mandolin for the last 15 years. Rachel Shenin, violinist, leads the Bulgars and Freylachs fearlessly, solos effortlessly on the jazz tunes and sings in Yiddish. Michael Kaler plays upright bass with The Horables, and plays bouzouki with the Friends of Markos.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-folk | Comments Off on Big Fat Greek Jewish Music Night, Thurs June 2

Folk-blues duo Jennis: Dennis Gaumond & Jen Gillmor, Sat May 28

Posted on May 4, 2016 by Editor

Jennis-9671-smallcSaturday May 28, 2016, at 8 pm, $10.  Back at Artword Artbar! The wonderful  folk-blues duo Jennis.  Jennis brings together award-winning Guelph-based Dennis Gaumond‘s decades of experience writing and performing original blues and folk and the diverse musical experiences of veteran Toronto indie-scene multi-instrumentalist Jen Gillmor. The unique blend of cello and dobro is also augmented by unusual sounds, such as didgeridoo, custom-tuned harmonicas, flute, wah-guitar, jaw harp and wazinator. It makes for a very entertaining performance, filled with energy, passion and humour. “What do you get when you combine some talented songwriting, warm, rich vocals along with a resophonic guitar, cello, jaw harp and even a didgeridoo?  A unique and impressive blend of folk, roots and bluesy sounds served up as a fine, entertaining evening of Jennis music.” Debra Thornington, Ottawa Blues Society  www.jennis.ca     www.jengillmormusic.ca

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-folk | Comments Off on Folk-blues duo Jennis: Dennis Gaumond & Jen Gillmor, Sat May 28

Jazz w. the Adam Fielding Trio, Fri May 27

Posted on May 3, 2016 by Editor
Friday May 27, 2016, at 8 pm. $10. Jazz with Adam Fielding on drums, Matthew Flemming on guitar and Jon Stemmler on bass. They will be performing jazz and pop standards in their own unique way. More details coming.
Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz w. the Adam Fielding Trio, Fri May 27

60s Folk Revival Sing-a-long, Thurs May 26

Posted on May 2, 2016 by Editor

Sue_and_Dwight_logoThursday May 26, 2016, at 8 pm, $10.   BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone, a 60s Folk Revival sing-a-long concert, with Sue Peters (vocals),  Michelle Rumball (vocals), Dwight Peters (vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars) and Tony Laviola (double bass). Imagine an evening that transforms the Artword Artbar into one of the 1960s coffeehouses of Yorkville or Greenwich Village. The lyrics have meaning, the voices are true and passionate in solo and in harmony, and the music inspires the audience to join in. Where Have All The Folk Songs Gone recreates the songs of hope and social justice, messages that still resonate today. The show covers the songs of the great singers and poets including Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Ian & Sylvia, Peter Paul and Mary, and Phil Ochs. Song-sheets are provided. http://wherehaveallthefolksongsgone.blogspot.ca/

Posted in Event, Music-folk | Comments Off on 60s Folk Revival Sing-a-long, Thurs May 26

Sunday Brunch with singer-songwriters Annie and Rose-Erin, Sun May 22 at noon

Posted on April 30, 2016 by Editor
Annie_Sumi_c_RyanMarshall_680Rose-Erin_Stokes_cSunday May 22, 2016, from noon to 3 pm. A Victoria Day Weekend Special Treat. A homemade Trinidad Brunch by chef Learie Mc Nicolls, starting at noon, PLUS a full concert by touring singer-songwriters Annie Sumi and Rose-Erin Stokes starting at about 12:30 pm. to 2:30 pm. $20 covers both the Concert and the Brunch. Concert only $10. Reserve 905-543-8512.
Annie Sumi,  from the GTA area, released her debut album Reflections last spring. It earned airplay on CBC radio and charted on college radio for 10 straight weeks. In October she received a Best Singer-Songwriter nomination at the Toronto Independent Music Awards.  www.anniesumi.com
Rose-Erin Stokes, from North Bay, was a nominee for “Best Solo Album” and the recipient of “Best Vocals on a Recording” at the 2015 Northern Ontario Music and Film Awards. Most recently, Rose toured throughout Western Canada on a solo, music-cycling tour.  www.roseerinstokes.com
Rose and Annie play together in the Hidden Roots Collective band and share in this journey of being female singer-songwriters.
Posted in Event, Music-folk, Special event | Comments Off on Sunday Brunch with singer-songwriters Annie and Rose-Erin, Sun May 22 at noon

Jazz with Hans Luchs Trio from Chicago, + Scott Taplay Group, Sat May 21

Posted on April 29, 2016 by Editor

Hans_Luchs_cSaturday May 21, 2016, at 8 pm, $10. On tour from Chicago, Hans Luchs, jazz guitarist, with Aaron Zachary on double bass, and Peter Manheim on drums. Opening set by one of our favourites, the Scott Taplay Group. Guitarist Hans Luchs has been performing professionally in and around Chicago since moving to the city in 2007. In 2011, The Jazz Institute of Chicago selected Hans to perform in its annual “Young Lions’ concert. Since then, Hans has gone on to perform across the USA and internationally in Sweden, The UK, Ireland, Canada, and Mexico. He has performed and toured with an array of artists, including 8-time Grammy winner Pepe Aguilar, Motown legend Martha Reeves, and blues singer Shirley King, as well as with a host of wonderful jazz musicians from Chicago and beyond. www.hansluchs.com

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz with Hans Luchs Trio from Chicago, + Scott Taplay Group, Sat May 21

Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial is back! Friday May 20

Posted on April 28, 2016 by Editor

Version 4Friday May 20, 2016, at 8 pm. $15. BUY_tix_buttonBook online
The multi-talented trumpeter-singer Stuart Laughton is back with a new edition of his wonderfully eclectic Radio Dial show. He tells us this will be “an almost entirely new program, and will mark a return to Artword Artbar of ace pedal steel guitarist Burke Carroll.”
The Radio Dial gang coming to Artword May 20: Burke Carroll (pedal steel guitar), Rebecca Campbell (vocals), Martin Worthy (drums), Stuart Laughton (guitar, et al), and Steve Lucas (bass).

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Blues, Music-folk | Comments Off on Stuart Laughton’s Radio Dial is back! Friday May 20

Hamilton Poetry Centre Open Reading, Thurs May 19, 7-9 pm

Posted on April 27, 2016 by Editor

Hamilton_Poetry_Centre_400x400Thursday May 19, 2016, 7 pm. Free. The Hamilton Poetry Centre presents its annual Open Reading. Everyone is welcome to attend and to read. Established in 1983, the Hamilton Poetry Centre works to support and encourage the writing and appreciation of poetry, by conducting workshops and hosting Canada Council sponsored readings. http://hamiltonpoetrycentre.com/

Posted in Event, Literary, Spoken Word | Comments Off on Hamilton Poetry Centre Open Reading, Thurs May 19, 7-9 pm

New Cumberland Bluegrass Band, Sat May 14

Posted on April 26, 2016 by Editor

New Cumberland_2016_adjSaturday May 14, 2016, at 8 pm, $15. BUY_tix_buttonBook online
Back at Artword, New Cumberland, a bluegrass band from London Ontario: Tom Burns – vocals and guitar, Blair Heddle – vocals, mandolin and dobro, Paul Hurdle – vocals and banjo, Tom Rutledge – string bass. Special guest for May 14 is virtuoso fiddler and mandolin player Darrin Schott. http://www.newcumberlandband.com
Featuring inventive solo work, driving rhythms and three part vocal harmonies, New Cumberland’s musical integrity and joy in playing together resonates in every performance. Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music | Comments Off on New Cumberland Bluegrass Band, Sat May 14

Jazz with the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, Fri May 13

Posted on April 24, 2016 by Editor

Aubrey_Wilson_2016_bFriday May 13, 2016, at 8 pm, $10.  Jazz with the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, featuring Chris Bruder on piano, Tom Altobelli on bass, Sean Bruce Parker on drums and bandleader Aubrey Wilson on vocals. Another Aurtword favourite, the Aubrey Wilson Quartet has been actively gigging in both the Hamilton and Toronto areas since 2012. The band is made up of Mohawk jazz alumni, and Tom and Chris have also completed their Bachelor of Music degree in contemporary music from Humber College. Together the band has a dynamic, high-energy sound over a range of jazz standards. They represent the next wave of jazz players in the city, bringing their own energy, experience, and musical sensibilities wherever they play.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz with the Aubrey Wilson Quartet, Fri May 13

Jazz vocal jam w. Sue Ramsay Trio, … Apr 14, May 12

Posted on April 23, 2016 by Editor

Sue_RamsaySecond Thursdays: Feb 11, Mar 10, April 14, May 12, 2016 (last one for the season), at 8 pm, $10 /$5. Jazz vocalist Sue Ramsay hosts a jazz vocal jam, backed by Bob Shields on guitar and Clark Johnston on stand-up bass, with Adam Fielding on drums. With some storytelling in the mix. Sue says: “I want to create an environment where singers can do their thing and promote whatever they’re working on.  And I get to gig once a month to try out new material and jam a wee bit with my trio. I have often found being a singer is a lonely road. The path is not always clear but so much easier with a network of friends around.”  http://www.suzanne-ramsay.com/ .

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz vocal jam w. Sue Ramsay Trio, … Apr 14, May 12

Jazz with Kite Trio from Montreal, + Scott Taplay Group, Wed May 11

Posted on April 22, 2016 by Editor

Kite_Trio3_c800Wednesday May 11, 2016, 8 pm, $10. We are pleased to welcome back the extraordinary Kite Trio, an innovative jazz trio from Montreal: guitarist Eric Couture, drummer Eric Dew, and upright bassist Paul Van Dyk. http://kitetrio.com/
PLUS an opening set by the Scott Taplay Group: Jonas Pearson Paavola bass, Victor Agrippa alto sax, Jon Pascoal drums, and Scott Taplay guitar.
Review of Strange Beast by Kite Trio: “Maîtres de leurs instruments et repoussant leurs limites, ils nous offrent un jazz métissé aux couleurs progressives avec une touche post-moderne, parsemé de classique et de rock.  Masters of their instruments and pushing their limits, they offer a jazz mixed with progressive colours and a post-modern touch, dotted with classical and rock.” Continue reading →

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz with Kite Trio from Montreal, + Scott Taplay Group, Wed May 11

THEATRE: MacBush, the Musical, by David Dawson, April 26 to May 8

Posted on April 21, 2016 by Editor

MacBush_posterJ_3v_com-cut3_nobMacBush the Musical RETURNS Nov 1 to 13, 2016! Click here https://www.artword.net/artbar/

Tuesday April 26 to Sunday May 8, 2016, a two-week run at Artword Theatre / Artword Artbar.   MacBush, the Musical, by David L. Dawson and directed by Ronald Weihs, is a new musical play that is — yes, you guessed it — a mash-up of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the George ‘Dubya’ Bush administration during 2001/9/11 and the War on Iraq.

G. Dubya and his sidekicks Dickie, Rummy, Condi and Coley sing jaunty show tunes while they plan tactics of ‘shock and awe’. Songs sung by a soldier and an Iraqi woman reveal other viewpoints. With guest appearances by ‘Saddam Hussein’ and ‘Osama Bin Laden’ and ‘Ahmadinejad’ as witches, who have some chilling prophecies about our now current world crisis.

Performed by a cast of seven accomplished singer-actors in the Artword Theatre Ensemble:
Jamila B., Sean Emberley, Shavini Fernando,
Will Gillespie, Allan Merovitz,
Jon-Gordon Odegaard, Jay Shand.

Book and lyrics by David Laing Dawson. Music by Charles W. Humphreys.
Directed by Ronald Weihs. Music direction by Tim Nijenhuis.
Design by Judith Sandiford. Produced by Artword Theatre and Gallery on the Bay.

Show Dates and Times: April 26 to May 8, 2016, Tues to Sat at 8 pm, Sun mat. at 2:30 pm
Prices: Tues $20.00, Wed, Thurs & Sun: $25.00, Fri & Sat $30.00

Call for info about groups and special price offers:
Artword Artbar: 905-543-8512   www.artword.net/artbar
OR Gallery on the Bay: 905-540-8532   www.galleryonthebay.com

Posted in Event, Theatre | Comments Off on THEATRE: MacBush, the Musical, by David Dawson, April 26 to May 8

MacBush, the Musical, full text of three wonderful reviews

Posted on April 20, 2016 by Editor

Theatre Review of MacBush the Musical by Allison M. Jones, View Magazine, May 5-11, 2016

Hamilton’s Artword Artbar is a small place with a lot of heart. Its theatre ensemble has taken on the ambitious MacBush the Musical, a “mash up of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the George ‘Dubya’ Bush administration during 9/11 and the War on Iraq.”

This lively play shows there’s room for comedy despite the tragedy woven into its historical and Shakespearean material. However, it threads its laughs with pathos and an undeniably sinister undercurrent for those who recall the political landscape of pre- and post- 9/11. …

MacBush review by Gary Smith: Macbeth, Bush mashup has comic intentions with bite, The Hamilton Spectator, Tuesday May 3, 2016

Need some consciousness raising? Tired of Trump, Hillary and the crew dispensing “Ain’t America Great” on TV? Then go get a reality check at Artword Artbar, where Artword Theatre is offering hemlock and humour, stirred not shaken, in a bitter witches’ brew. That brew borrowed from Shakespeare makes George W. Bush a kind of Macbeth in a modern suit….

MacBush: the Musical – Toil, Trouble, Shock & Awe,
Review by Ellen S. Jaffe for Ontario Arts Review

Shakespeare may be dead, but his plays are alive, well, and adaptable to modern times. Hamilton author, David Laing Dawson, demonstrates this in his powerful MacBush: the Musical, directed by Ron Weihs.  The play transposes the story of MacBeth to Washington D.C. and Iraq. Mixing clever, biting political satire with direct anti-war statements, showing how power corrupts and evil proliferates, especially when done in the name of “good.” ….

Click on READ MORE to read all three reviews in full. Continue reading →

Posted in News | Comments Off on MacBush, the Musical, full text of three wonderful reviews

Love & Spring: vocalist Colina Phillips w. Stacie McGregor piano, Fri Apr 22

Posted on March 6, 2016 by Editor

Colina_PhillipsStacie_McGregor_cFriday April 22, 2016, at 8 pm, $15.  Love & Spring, a jazz cabaret with vocalist Colina Phillips: “Love and Spring go heart in hand. That’s what my repertoire will reflect.” Joining Colina are Stacie McGregor (piano),  Mike Milligan (bass) and Ted Warren (drums).
Jazz pianist Stacie McGregor has her own band, the Stacie McGregor Quintet, and is also a member of Brandi Disterheft’s Juno-award winning band and Archie Alleyne’s hard-bop Mike Milligan_c680band Kollage.   http://www.staciemcgregor.com/
Bassist Mike Milligan, nominated for Jazz Bassist of the Year at the 2008 National Jazz Awards, has performed and recorded with David Liebman, Joshua Redman, Donny McCaslin, David Binney, Claude Ranger, Jeff Ballard, Billy Kilson, Adam Nussbaum, Don Thompson, and Sonny Greenwich. Mike has toured all around the globe as a sideman including multiple tours of Europe with the Shuffle Demons. He presently also leads his Quartet and co-leads a guitar and double bass duo (SixplusFour) with guitarist James Brown.

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Love & Spring: vocalist Colina Phillips w. Stacie McGregor piano, Fri Apr 22

Jude Johnson, w. Carl Horton & Mike Malone, Sat Apr 16

Posted on March 5, 2016 by Editor

Jude_Johnson_ConcertJude_Johnson_23cSaturday, April 16, 2016, at 8 pm, $15. To reserve call 905-543-8512, or 905-912-9083.

Hamilton’s favourite songstress, the one-and-only Jude Johnson returns to Artword Artbar, with Carl Horton on piano and Mike Malone on trumpet. She’ll sing her jazz standard specialties, as well as some roots blues and a bit of gospel.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jude Johnson, w. Carl Horton & Mike Malone, Sat Apr 16

Singer-songwriters Jane Lewis & Joni NehRita, Fri Apr 15

Posted on March 4, 2016 by Editor

JONIandJANEFriday April 15, 2016, at 8 pm, $10. Join us for an evening of music with Guelph singer-songwriters Jane Lewis and Joni NehRita. An engaging mix of classic pop and jazz-tinged soul — originals and covers.
Joni NehRita is a soul/jazz singer songwriter with a knack for writing well-crafted infectious tunes. In performance CBC’s Raji Sohal describes her voice and stage presence as endearingly natural. Her third album “Bloom” was recently released by Chanter records and has garnered nationwide attention from The CBC. www.joninehrita.com
Jane Lewis has a piano-based folk-pop-roots style of music that blends engaging melodies and well-crafted lyrics. The title track from her latest album, Stay With Me, was a finalist for the 2015 Colleen Peterson Songwriting Award, and her cover version of the Beatles Come Together won a 2015 Independent Music Award for Best Cover Song. www.janelewis.ca           New video! https://youtu.be/xcUEc4xKG4c
2015 Independent Music Award for Best Cover Song

Posted in Event, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Singer-songwriters Jane Lewis & Joni NehRita, Fri Apr 15

Hamilton Regional Writers Group, meetings… Wed Apr 13, …

Posted on March 2, 2016 by Editor

HRWGMonthly meetings, 2016, 7-10 pm. (Tues Feb 9, Tues March 8, Wed April 13, Tues May 10), at Artword Artbar. The Hamilton Regional Writers Group is a Songwriters Association of Canada (SAC) supported community in which songwriters can support each other in growing their craft and navigating the music business.
The SONG is the focus, so bring lyric sheets. Participants can play their song live or have a CD demo to play over the house system. You can choose to have your song critiqued by peers or not critiqued and just see what it feels like to bring your lil gem out in the public. Themes and format will be developed as we go and we’re expecting to have occasional guest speakers.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/HamiltonRWG/

Posted in Event, Special event | Comments Off on Hamilton Regional Writers Group, meetings… Wed Apr 13, …

Opera comediennes Millan & Faye: The Opera! Sat April 9

Posted on February 24, 2016 by Editor

Millan&Faye_650Saturday April 9, 2016, at 8 pm. $20.  Call 905-543-8512 or 905-912-9083 to reserve (online ticketing is closed).
Millan & Faye Present: The Opera!
In a special appearance at Artword Artbar, opera comedienne Kyra Millan and her music partner Tina Faye invite the audience into the world of opera through a brilliantly funny, whirlwind concert full of operatic favourites and well-known classical tunes, as well sketches and improv that celebrate the sublime and sublimely ridiculous elements that make up opera. View their YouTube hit Top Ten Opera Deaths.
Soprano Kyra Millan is happiest creating quirky shows that allow her to blend education and performance, as her unique career has been a balance of both. Millan&Faye_10_OperaDeaths_c680An opera Comedienne, she is embarking this year on her first Ontario tour of her original show “Millan & Faye Present: The Opera”, with her music duo partner Tina Faye. Commissioned four years running by the Canadian Opera Company, they will begin their tour at the Four Seasons Centre in March of 2016. Other recent performances have included headlining Harbourfront’s Voice and Strings Festival in 2014, and a surprise appearance for the TSOs Pianos In The City earlier this year. In winter 2013, she created her first full-length show ‘Christmas with Hi and Lo’ – which she created in collaboration with Canadian jazz icon John Alcorn, and performed to sold-out audiences. http://kyra-millan.com/
Christina Faye is an accomplished pianist now making her home in Toronto. Currently she is the music director at Christ Church Scarborough Village, and accompanist for the Toronto Welsh Male Voice Choir, as well as being an in demand collaborative and solo pianist. Christina is a member of the dynamic and successful ‘Yegada Piano Trio’ with cellist Mateusz Swoboda and violinist Edwin Huizinga, and piano/vocal duo ‘Seirínes’ with acclaimed soprano Adria McCulloch. In all of her collaborative and solo work, Christina explores and promotes contemporary Canadian music and seeks to bring new and exciting experiences to her audiences.  http://www.christinamfaye.com/

Posted in Event, Music-Classical, Special event | Comments Off on Opera comediennes Millan & Faye: The Opera! Sat April 9

Jazz with the Aaron Z Trio, Fri April 8

Posted on February 19, 2016 by Editor

Aaron_Zukewich_image2Friday April 8, 2016, at 8 pm, $10, plus tip jar for Art Crawl. Jazz with the Aaron Z Trio, featuring piano composer Aaron Zukewich playing our baby grand, with Tyler Goertzen on drums and Clark Johnston on bass. The Aaron Z Trio delivers a blend of intricate rhythms, modern jazz harmony, and evocative, singable melodies. The trio performs jazz compositions that embrace today’s diverse musical landscape, influenced by pop, rock, and world music. 

Posted in Event, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Jazz with the Aaron Z Trio, Fri April 8

Jazz with the ON TOPIC Trio, Thurs April 7

Posted on February 18, 2016 by Editor

ON-TOPIC-2_c_680Thursday April 7, 2016, at 8 pm, $10. Jazz with the On Topic Trio, a collaborative effort from guitarist Kim Ratcliffe, drummer Aubrey Dayle from Toronto, and bassist  Brad Cheeseman from Hamilton. Returning to Artword Artbar after a packed show in January. Each a leader of his own solo project, the trio was formed in early 2015, and are now putting aside other musical endeavors to perform in this trio setting. In On Topic,  they have an opportunity to express themselves in an environment where it is good to relinquish some control, and work as a band. This trio, playing electric instrumental jazz influenced by artists ranging from Weather Report to Pat Metheny, will caress you, rock you, and everything in between.  https://www.presskit.to/ontopic#/media

Posted in Event | Comments Off on Jazz with the ON TOPIC Trio, Thurs April 7

Cowboy Quartet: Tiny Bill Cody, Sat April 2

Posted on February 17, 2016 by Editor

Tiny Bill Codyartwordnov2012Saturday April 2, 2016, at 8:30 pm, $15. Tiny Bill Cody, vocals and guitar, is back with his Cowboy Quartet: Tiny Bill Cody, Mimi Shaw, Orange McFarland, Jeff Griffiths. Tiny Bill explains: Here are four musicians who share a love for vintage country, rockabilly, and western crooning. They present here an array of original music and time worn chestnuts. Don’t be surprised by the yodeling, the preachifying, or the raucous harmonizing.

Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Cowboy Quartet: Tiny Bill Cody, Sat April 2

Worst Pop Band Ever and Sophia Perlman, Fri April 1

Posted on February 16, 2016 by Editor

WPBE_bandphoto_cSophia_Perlman-tracey-nolan-smallerFriday April 1, 2016, at 8 pm, $10. The Worst Pop Band Ever aka WPBE, featuring Adrean Farrugia (piano/keys) and Chris Gale (sax), along with Drew Birston (bass) and Tim Shia (drums). After a packed house during the Steel City Jazz Festival, the Worst Pop Band Ever returns to the Artword Artbar with their unique brand of rock-jazz.
This time they are joined by the amazing songstress Sophia Perlman and special guests, Well Plaid, Mohawk College 3rd year vocal majors. http://www.sophiaperlman.com/            www.worstpopbandever.com        www.facebook.com/worstpopbandever

Posted in Event, Music, Music-Jazz | Comments Off on Worst Pop Band Ever and Sophia Perlman, Fri April 1

Inside the Songs: Avery, Straker, Wells, triple-bill, Thurs Mar 31

Posted on February 15, 2016 by Editor
Jeffery_Straker_posterThursday March 31, 2016, at 8:00 pm, $8 advance / $10 at door.
BUY_tix_buttonBook advance price online
Inside the Songs, singer-songwriters in the round. Three wonderful songwriters who have all played Artword Artbar’s piano in the past, are combining forces in a powerhouse triple-bill: Deanna Wells (from Ophelia Syndrome), Jeffery Straker, and Marie Avery.
Posted in Event, Music, Music-singer/songwriter | Comments Off on Inside the Songs: Avery, Straker, Wells, triple-bill, Thurs Mar 31

Big Dance, Little Stage, w. Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed-Thurs Mar 23-24, Thurs Apr 21

Posted on February 13, 2016 by Editor

BDLS_2015_12_03_0815_c680Wednesday March 23 and Thursday March 24, 2016, at 8 pm, $10. Choreographer/dancer Learie Mc Nicolls curates and hosts edition #9 of Big Dance, Little Stage, an evening of contemporary dance works for a small stage. An exciting opportunity for dancers to showcase new work, explore improvisations, and build new collaborations . Line-up for March 23 and 24 (Easter edition) includes: Sharon Harvey, Megan English, Anderson Langille, Jackie Pullar, Pearl Lall (Thurs only), and Learie Mc Nicolls. (Photo Anderson Langille and Orange McFarland, BDLS, Dec 3, 2015.)
Next edition of BDLS, Thursday April 21, line-up: Tanya Langille, Nimmi Kalra Brenzil and  special guest jazz vocalist Sophia Perlman singing “Isn’t It a Pity” to Learie’s choreography. Learie is also premiering an excerpt of his new solo, The Night Journey..

Posted in Dance, Event | Comments Off on Big Dance, Little Stage, w. Learie Mc Nicolls, Wed-Thurs Mar 23-24, Thurs Apr 21