Sounds of the festive season filled the air as The Bradford Arts Centre opened their doors to the community for their annual Winter Wonderland Concert last Saturday.
Opening the show was performance artist Alexandrina with a collection of her original music and favourite covers.
The Goldenaires Choir brought their humorous melodies over from the Danube Seniors Lesiure Centre, presenting a full-stage choral ensemble as well as small group and duet pieces.
Solo guitarist and singer Laurie Leblanc brought a laugh in his lively rendition of classic Christmas carols, with participation from the audience.
For those who may have a more rustic inclination, Front Porch Harmonies; made up of Linda Gamble on bass, Helen Mabee on guitar, Gail McKinley on the banjo, and Ingrid Szauter on autoharp brought an old-time feel to the evening.
In between acts, singer-songwriter duo, Bruce Dixon, and John Montgomery brought the focus back to a traditional Christmas feel.
Sing-alongs and festive fun were the order of the night for all of the acts, with the show wrapping up as all of the performers came together on the stage to close out the night with the audience joining them in singing some old favourites.
Bradford Arts Centre director Bill Jermyn kindly stepped into the role of master of ceremonies, sound technician and stagehand with help from the other members of The Bradford Arts Centre.
While it was a great night out for the audience, it was a busy evening for Jermyn and The Bradford Arts Centre.
“The Bradford Arts Centre needs help,” said Jermyn. “We’ve lost quite a few people over the last year and are currently looking for talented people to fill the gaps.”
Whether you’re looking for volunteer hours and want to help as a stagehand or technician or if you’d be able to help on the Board of Directors, The Bradford Arts Centre is waiting to hear from you.
“Specifically, we’re looking to update our web presence and social media,” said Jermyn.
“We’re also looking for someone who could help in writing grant applications, handle media, promotion, and publicity and someone who can help with program planning for the centre,” he said.
Many hands make light work, so these positions can be filled by different people.
The volunteers who fill those positions will need strong communication skills, leadership skills, and the ability to network and understand the community.
If this sounds like something you’d be able to help with, send an email to [email protected]
