Riverdale Share Concert - Related Image.
Nothing new to report on the Riverdale Share annual concert, held Saturday, Dec. 12 at St. Barnabas Church on the Danforth. I said it last year in my review, and I’ll say it again - best entertainment ticket $15 can buy.
I was curious as to how the change of venues - from the Danforth Music Hall (now home to the Toxic Avenger musical) to a venerable church - would shake out. It worked for me, for one reason - size. The new venue featured an even more intimate setting while still being spacious.
The sound was rich, which is a good thing, given the calibre of musicians volunteering their time. Everything starts with the house band under musical director (and pianist) Tom Leighton and band leader (and guitarist) Steve Briggs, and complete with horn and string sections. It’s worth the price of admission itself.
They were as at home backing Tabby Johnson in a rousing gospel rendition of Go Tell it On the Mountain as they were backing Russel deCarle and Michael Berube in jazzy versions of ageless holiday standards, respectively, Winter Wonderland and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.
The whole show was uniformly great, and I don’t want to mention too many more or I might as well just go through the entire list which you can get from the program. I will note the youngsters, however. Frankland Choir - the youngest performers. Wow. Great job. And particularly to the youth in Spraoi, Gentlemen of the Jury and the Tanners, it’s alway great to see that kind of blossoming musical talent.
Also, a very nice close-out by Mia Sheard on Lennon’s Happy Xmas. Had to wipe away a tear or two on that one, as usual.
Last but not least – as if the above wasn’t worth the price of admission – were the star turns by two favourite local international acts, former Barenaked Ladies co-founder Steven Page and legendary children’s performers Sharon, Lois and Bram. Their music is special in my family’s life, including their holiday CDs which are part of our collection, and it was special to see them on stage at St. Barnabas.
Both received rousing and warm ovations, Page for a stand-out version of his own Hanukkah Blessings from the BNL Holiday CD and Sharon, Lois and Bram leading a spirited, audience-participation Twelve Days of Christmas.
For those who would like to attend another Christmas benefit, Mia Sheard will host the The Christmas Show Dec. 18 and 19 (Fri/Sat) at the Rivoli on Queen Street in support of the Daily Bread Food Bank and The Stephen Lewis Foundation. Cost is $18 and if you’re able, a non-perishable food item would be appreciated. Check it out at http://mouthpartsandwings.ca/
And, finally, the above photo by Mike Pochwat, of course, is of Sharon, Lois and Bram in action during the 18th annual Riverdale Share Concert at St. Barnabas Church.