Home Grown Theatrical Talent

Theatrical talent was shining in the Northern Avalon this summer. Cupids 400 and New World Theatre’s Indeavour Stage provided “once in a lifetime” entertainment, in which local performers participated. At the same time, community theatre which has been growing over the past decade in the towns of Brigus and Bay Roberts was thriving.

Bay Roberts had three separate successful shows. A Time in Pigeon Inlet, a Newfoundland “time,” featuring singing, instrumental music, storytelling and sketches (based on Ted Russell’s Tales from Pigeon Inlet) is in its third season. Salt-water Moon, a drama, was on stage at the Victoria LOL#3 Museum and Playhouse, the second year for a David French play produced by Jerry Mercer and directed by Marc Warren. And, for the first time, An Evening with the Gosse Family (which featuring singing,  instrumental music, and skits) was held at Lodge McKay.

In Brigus, The Royal Shag Up, a comedy with music, is in its 9^th sold out season.

What is Special About These Shows?

All four shows are first class productions with talented performers that have been enjoyed and praised by audiences from all over Canada. However, what is special is that each of these shows has a direct connection with the area.

Bay Roberts Shows

A Time in Pigeon Inlet, (pigeoninlet.ca) which features Newfoundland and Labrador’s first tradition bearer, Kelly Russell, and his family, is built around the stories of Kelly’s father, Newfoundland author Ted Russell, who was born on Coley’s Point.

The Cast of “A Time in Pigeon Inlet”
More photos from “A Time in Pigeon Inlet” > >

Salt-water Moon was written by David French, who was also born in Coley’s Point. David French moved to Toronto as a child when his father went upalong to work, but his plays are steeped in the history and mythology of this area of the province. Characters speak of the Bay Roberts Railway Station, the Klondyke, the Kyle, and the Labrador fishery.

“Salt-water Moon” by David French
More photos from “Salt-water Moon” > >
victoriamuseumplayhouse.com

An Evening with the Gosse Family featured the Gosse girls, Sonya and Michele, who grew up in Bay Roberts, and their Dad, Lewis, who was a teacher at Ascension Collegiate for years.
Ged Backmore, who was in the audience, was moved by the Gosse rendition of his composition, “The Sea.” in three part harmony.

More photos from “An Evening with the Gosse Family” > >

Brigus Show

The Royal Shag Up has been collectively written over the years by the Baccalieu Players, people from the local region who act, sing and dance in the show.

The Cast of “A Royal Shag Up”
More photos from “A Royal Shag Up” > >

“Salt-water Moon” FREE September 24th and 25th during Canadian Culture Days.

And as a bottom line, you have another opportunity to see “Salt-water Moon” for FREE at the Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse during Culture Days, September 24-25.  You will be amazed at how certain words and phrases jump to life because the play is in context.  Most people who have seen several different productions of the show say this one has a different twist which you will thoroughly enjoy.  Friday night’s show is being sponsored by Moores Andrews Collins Law Offices. Saturday night’s show is being sponsored by Ruth Brown of Clarke Real Estate, Pam Norman of Exit Realty, Churchill’s Home Hardware, and Harbour International.

Moon and stars in the sky.

Information about “Salt-water Moon” on the Culture Days Website > >

Events in Northern Avalon – July 26 to August 1

July 26 – August 6 Shearstown Estuary (between Bay Roberts and Spaniards Bay) Wetlands Nature Camp
Monday to Friday, 10am – 2pm Children get active in the outdoors, while learning about the environment. Registration for camp is on a day to day basis, so visitors, as well as people of the region are welcome. Featuring special guests Dennis Minty,  and Ticker Tom. Cost: 5$ per day per child. FMI: Keshia Parsons Email: shearstowngreenteam@gmail.com website: shearstownestuary.ca Phone: (709) 788-3021

July 27 Heart’s Content: Cable Station Anniversary Celebration. FMI: 583-2160

July 27 Bay Roberts Hauntings in Coley’s Point. 5 ghost stories…near graveyards. 8:30pm FMI: 683-1195, Hauntings > > holdinground.com

July 28 Bay Roberts Unveiling the new Klondyke Causeway Wayside Sign with performances by the Pigeon Inlet Players. 2:30pm-4:30pm FMI: 683-1195 holdinground.com

July 28 Cupids Feast of the Sword Dinner Theatre: Cupids Community Hall 6PM Tickets $47.50 Children 12 & under $36.25 [HST included] Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 28- August 1 Bay de Verde Heritage Days. Poker game, dances, kids fun day; fireworks, fish & brewis breakfast, adult dance. Schedule [PDF] > > FMI: 587-2766 www.baydeverde.com

July 29-Aug.1 Holyrood 22nd Annual Squid Festival
FMI:  229-7252 townofholyrood.com

July 29 Holyrood Community Walk and Bonfire FMI: 229-7252 townofholyrood.com

July 29–August 2 Carbonear Weekend Including  “3rd Annual World Cup of Tiddly”  FMI: 596.3831 Schedule for Carbonear Weekend  > >

July 29 Bay Roberts Family Campfire Community Gardens 7:30pm  FMI 786-2126 holdinground.com

July 29 Whiteway Live Music with Craig Whelan & Brady Whelan Brown’s Restaurant. Tel: (709) 588-2347  Fax: (709) 588-2627

July 29 Cupids Colony of the Heart:The Indeavour Stage 6PM $25.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 30 Bay Roberts Saltwater Moon.  Directed  by Marc Warren   With Brad Mercer as Jacob Mercer and Robyn Brockerville playing Mary. 8pm Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse E Mail: info@victoriamuseumplayhouse.com Web: www.victoriamuseumplayhouse.com

July 30 Brigus “A Royal Shag Up” Comedy Dinner Theatre. The Queen visits and with the help of our womanizing Mayor and torrid French dancer Fifi LaFlamme, unveils a lot more than a monument! 7:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday evenings through July & August. Choice of menu. Reservations essential. Ph. (709) 528-4044.

July 30 Cupids Colony of the Heart: The Indeavour Stage 6PM $25.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 31 Carbonear Fibre Arts Exhibit. Display and Demonstration of crafts such as Quilts, Rug Hooking and Swedish Weaving. Music. Free Admission.2:00pm – 4:00 pm Multi-purpose room, back of swimming pool building. More information > >

July 31 Dildo. Dildo Days Boat Flotilla 11am; Cold Plate Sale $7 per plate 1-5pm; SUF Grounds: Dunk Tank & Local Entertainment Fun for the whole family, Men’s Fellowship fundraising BBQ, Adult Dance • SUF Lodge ($10 double) Third Strike • Door Prizes! For more information – > >

July 31 Harbour Grace 148th Running of the Harbour Grace Regatta Lady Lake. Enjoy a day at the races. Fixed seal shells, games of chance, food concessions, ladies’ and men’s races. The second oldest continuous sporting event in North America. Phone: 709-596-6753 or 709-596-7265 Fax: 709-596-1991 E-mail: thg@nf.sympatico.ca

July 31 Bay Roberts Saltwater Moon.  Directed  by Marc Warren   With Brad Mercer as Jacob Mercer and Robyn Brockerville playing Mary. 8pm Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse E Mail: info@victoriamuseumplayhouse.com Web: www.victoriamuseumplayhouse.com

July 31 Bay Roberts “A Time in Pigeon Inlet,” featuring Kelly Russell (Newfoundland and Labrador’s First Tradition Bearer), Russells in the Corner, Pigeon Inlet Players, and a special guest performer for each “Time”. For updates see: www.pigeoninlet.ca

July 31 Cupids / St. John’s St. John’s Story Telling Festival National Conference of Story Telling – St. John’s will visit Cupids

July 31 Brigus Cupids 400 Storytelling Concert Guest storytellers from around the world and at home will gather at St. George’s Heritage Church in neighbouring Brigus. International storytellers, Graham Langley and Jan Andrews will be joined by Newfoundland storyteller Margaret Hitchens for an evening of traditional English folk and fairy tales. St. George’s Church in Brigus (A Cupids 400 Event) See www.cupids400.com > >

July 31 Brigus
“A Royal Shag Up” Comedy Dinner Theatre. The Queen visits and with the help of our womanizing Mayor and torrid French dancer Fifi LaFlamme, unveils a lot more than a monument! 7:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday evenings through July & August. Choice of menu. Reservations essential. Ph. (709) 528-4044.

July 31 Cupids Feast of the Sword Dinner Theatre: Cupids Community Hall 6PM Tickets $47.50 Children 12 & under $36.25 [HST included] Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 31 Cupids The Tiring House: New World Theatre – The Indeavour Stage 1PM Tickets $10.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 31 Grates Cove Allan Ricketts 8:00pm Doors Open 7:00pm $15+HST advanced $17:50+HST at the Door. Cash Beer & Wine Beyond Baccalieu FMI or tickets: 587-3986 beyondbaccalieu.com

July 31 to August 31 Winterton Island Rock Studio Art Exbitition Drop in and view latest pieces by locally renowned NL artist, Florence Maud Pinhorn. FMI See the Wooden Boat Museum of Newfoundland & Labrador > >

July 31- August 1 Paradise SunSplash Festival, TBA FMI see www.townofparadise.ca > >

August 1 Cupids The Tiring House: New World Theatre – The Indeavour Stage 1PM Tickets $10.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

August 1 Carbonear 3rd Annual World Cup of Tiddly. Men’s, Women’s and Kids’ (12 and under) teams. 5 players per team (plus spare if needed). Pre-registration, rules and information on World Cup of Tiddly Page > > Registration also @ 1 pm Carbonear Recreation Complex. May bring own gloves and safety equipment.  “Hooked on Tiddly” T-shirts will be available for $10.

August 1 Bay Roberts Folk Festival Community Gardens 2pm FMI:  683-1195 holdinground.com

August 1 Bay Roberts Mussel/Crab Boil at the Three Sister with Music by the Pigeon Inlet Players Bay Roberts East Shoreline Heritage Walk. 2:30-4:00pm FMI: 786-2126 holdinground.com

August 1 Whitbourne Bluegrass and Old Time Country Music Hoedown Lions Club. Doors open at 1:00 pm. Starts at 2:00 pm. FMI: Bill Whelan 709 759 2196 or hildawhelan@hotmail.com

August 1 Conception Harbour 100th Anniversary of St. Anne’s Garden Party St. Anne’s Church grounds, Conception Harbour  A day of fun and games for children; games of chance along with musical entertainment. A dinner and dance to follow at St. Annes’s Parish Hall. FMI

Northern Avalon Events–July 19-25

July 1 -31 Winterton Winterton Boat Builder Museum Experiential Learning Package From June 15th to September 10th , 2010 Winterton Master Boat Builder Jerome Canning using the techniques and skills of the 17th century settlers rebuilds the Indeavour. NOTE: The Wooden Boat Museum will offer this presentation from June 14th through to Labour Day, 2010. (A Cupids 400 Event) FMI See the Wooden Boat Museum of Newfoundland & Labrador > >’

July & August Brigus Live! on the Lawn. Wed, Thurs, Fri Afternoons Hawthorne Cottage National Historic Site FMI: 528-4004, List of Events in Brigus – Details about Live! on the Lawn at bottom of page.

July & August Starting July 17th – Carbonear Walking Tours from Railway Museum
Starting July 17th FMI:   596-3831 Carbonear Walking Tours

July 21 – August 2 Bay Roberts Klondyke Days Events each year include: Super Sports Weekend, Children’s Party, Family Carnival, Concerts, Community Meals (Breakfasts, Dinners, and Suppers,) Dinner Theatres, Theatre, Garden Party, Buying Days on the Klondyke, Barbeque, Fireworks, etc…  See holdinground.com

July 21 Bay Roberts
Klondyke Parade, Opening Ceremonies and BBQ Starting at 7pm. FMI 786-2126 holdinground.com

Klondyke Parade 2009

July 22 Whiteway
Live Music with Lauren George
Brown’s Restaurant. Tel: (709) 588-2347  Fax: (709) 588-2627

July 22 Bay Roberts Family Campfire Community Gardens 7:30pm  FMI 786-2126 holdinground.com

July 22 Cupids Colony of the Heart: The Indeavour Stage 6PM $25.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 23-25 Bay Roberts Super Sports Weekend. FMI: 786-2126 holdinground.com

July 23 Bay Roberts Opening Night – Saltwater Moon.  Directed  by Marc Warren,    With Brad Mercer as Jacob Mercer and Robyn Brockerville playing Mary. 8pm Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse E Mail: info@victoriamuseumplayhouse.com Web: www.victoriamuseumplayhouse.com

July 23 Brigus
“A Royal Shag Up” Comedy Dinner Theatre. The Queen visits and with the help of our womanizing Mayor and torrid French dancer Fifi LaFlamme, unveils a lot more than a monument! 7:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday evenings through July & August. Choice of menu. Reservations essential. Ph. (709) 528-4044.

July 23 Cupids Colony of the Heart: The Indeavour Stage 6PM $25.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 24-25 – Bay Roberts – Super Sports Weekend holdinground.com

July 24 Harbour Grace
148th Running of the Harbour Grace Regatta

July 24 Bay Roberts 100th Anniversary Shearstown Trinity United Church Shearstown United Church 2pm: Garden Party (A Cupids 400 Event) See www.cupids400.com > >

July 24 Cupids Feast of the Sword Dinner Theatre: Cupids Community Hall 6PM Tickets $47.50 Children 12 & under $36.25 [HST included] Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 24 Cupids The Tiring House: New World Theatre – The Indeavour Stage 1PM Tickets $10.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

July 24 Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse Admission by donation. Carriage Rides available or by appointment $8 – $20 depending on route. 2:00 – 5:00 PM http://www.victoriamuseumplayhouse.com Call 709-786-9546 or 786-1536 Email: info@victoriamuseumplayhouse.com

July 24 Bay Roberts Saltwater Moon.  Directed  by Marc Warren,    With Brad Mercer as Jacob Mercer and Robyn Brockerville playing Mary. 8pm Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse E Mail: info@victoriamuseumplayhouse.com Web: www.victoriamuseumplayhouse.com

July 24 Bay Roberts “A Time in Pigeon Inlet,” featuring Kelly Russell (Newfoundland and Labrador’s First Tradition Bearer), Russells in the Corner, Pigeon Inlet Players, and a special guest performer for each “Time”. For updates see: www.pigeoninlet.ca

July 24 Brigus
“A Royal Shag Up” Comedy Dinner Theatre. The Queen visits and with the help of our womanizing Mayor and torrid French dancer Fifi LaFlamme, unveils a lot more than a monument! 7:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday evenings through July & August. Choice of menu. Reservations essential. Ph. (709) 528-4044.

July 24 Harbour Grace 148th Running of the Harbour Grace Regatta FMI: hrgrace.ca

July 24 Conception Harbour Down Memory Lane – Kitchen Party with Local Musicians Marian Hall. Bar Service.

July 24 –31 Conception Harbour: Newfoundland Week – Newfoundland Night (Dinner, Dance, NL Food). Kids Day, Seniors Day, Mass in the Cemetery;  FMI: 229-4627

July 25 Bay Roberts – Bluegrass and Old-Time Country Music Jam Session LIONS CLUB 2:00 TO 5:00 P. M. Doors open at 1:00 Admission $5.00 Come along and bring an acoustic instrument and join in an afternoon of bluegrass and old time country music. Electric bass, lapp and pedal steel welcome

July 25 Cupids The Tiring House: New World Theatre – The Indeavour Stage 1PM Tickets $10.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610

Events on the Northern Avalon – July 5 – July 12

Once upon a time, people used to make a once or twice yearly “excursion around the bay” for an afternoon. The “bay” has changed. Summer 2010 is filled with events for all ages and all tastes, and there are numerous quality places to stay from five star B&Bs to camping grounds. Instead of an afternoon, make plans to spend a mini-vacation or a long weekend. For information on accommodations, places to eat, and craft stores and gift shops, see northernavalon.com > >

Events – July 5 – July 12

July 5 Cupids / St. John’s
Coasters 2010 National Antique and Classic Car Club will arrive in Cupids on July 5th with over 100 antique and classic cars for viewing. Following this will be a cross country tour from St. John’s to British Columbia. (A Cupids 400 Event – cupids400.com

July 5 Cupids
Servant of Two Masters – Beni Malone & Wonderbolt Productions A classic Commedia del’arte piece written by renowned Italian playwright Carlos Goldini and adapted for stage by Beni Malone of Wonderbolt Productions. Audiences will be treated to a tapestry of memorable characters, beautiful costumes, manic comic energy as they whirl at a break neck pace through the ever twisting and twirling plot that is the trademark of the commedia del’arte form. Cupids Orange Lodge 8:00 pm $15.00 cupidscovechatter.com

July 6 – August 2 Bay Roberts The Second Annual Holdin’ Ground Festival, includes the “Time in Pigeon Inlet” event, the annual Klondyke Festival, as well as the launch of the Historic signage project. See holdinground.com

July 6 Bay Roberts Opening of the Second Annual Holdin Ground Festival and Launch of the Holdin’ Ground Project. Videotaped interviews with seniors, meeting with interviews seniors, display of Pigeon Inlet Quilt, original design and construction by the Pigeon Inlet Quilters, music by Pigeon Inlet Players. Refreshments will be served. St. John: the Evangelist Hall, Coleys’ Point 2:30pm FMI: 683-1195 holdingroundproject.com

July 6 Carbonear Servant of Two Masters – Beni Malone & Wonderbolt Productions A classic Commedia del’arte piece written by renowned Italian playwright Carlos Goldini and adapted for stage by Beni Malone of Wonderbolt Productions. Audiences will be treated to a tapestry of memorable characters, beautiful costumes, manic comic energy as they whirl at a break neck pace through the ever twisting and twirling plot that is the trademark of the commedia del’arte form. Rorke Stores Mercantile Premises 8:00 pm $15.00 (A Cupids 400 Event) See cupidscovechatter.com

July 6
Conception Harbour Down Memory Lane – Concert A concert featuring the heritage and culture of the communities of Conception Bay Central. Traditional music and dance, stories and recitations. Marian Hall 2:00 pm Admission: $5.00 Adults, $2.00 Children

July 7 Bay Roberts Performance by Pigeon Inlet Players Near Madrock Cafe and Three Sisters – Bay Roberts East Shoreline Heritage Walk. 2:30pm-4:30pm FMI: 683-1195 See holdinground.com

July 7 Bay Roberts Fairest Isles, All Isles Excelling – Hot Earth Ensemble. Concerts will feature guest artists, Meredith Hall, soprano, Calvin Powell, baritone, and a group of Madrigal Singers, directed by Kellie Walsh. Presenting music that was played, sung, or danced to in the “Fairest Isle” of England 400 or so years ago. St. Matthew’s Anglican Church 8:00 pm Admission: $15.00 cupidscovechatter.com

July 7 Old Perlican Servant of Two Masters – Beni Malone & Wonderbolt Productions A classic Commedia del’arte piece written by renowned Italian playwright Carlos Goldini and adapted for stage by Beni Malone of Wonderbolt Productions. Audiences will be treated to a tapestry of memorable characters, beautiful costumes, manic comic energy as they whirl at a break neck pace through the ever twisting and twirling plot that is the trademark of the commedia del’arte form. John Hoskins Community Centre 8:00 pm $15.00 (A Cupids 400 Event) cupidscovechatter.com

July 7 Carbonear Shore to Shore Concerts Join celebrated Newfoundland and Labrador musician, singer, songwriter Jim Payne and friends for an evening of music, song and dance. Rorke Stores Mercantile Premises 8:00 pm Admission: $15.00 (A Cupids 400 Event) See cupidscovechatter.com

July 8 Colliers: Pre-teen dance

July 8 Cupids Colony of the Heart: Cupids Legacy Centre 6PM $25.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610 cupidscovechatter.com

July 8 Bay Roberts Family Campfire
Community Gardens 7:30pm FMI 786-2126 See holdinground.com

July 8 Dildo Songs of the Sea Music Sessions with Jim Payne and British musicians Marilyn Pucker, Paul Wilson, Rebecca Driscoll, Nicholas Wyke and David Faulkner. Explore with experienced musicians, early folk instruments, music and dance. Join in Storytelling sessions that feature folk tales of an earlier time. Share your stories and bring your instruments or just sit back and enjoy. Goodwill Lodge #84 SUF 2:00 – 4:00 pm $5.00 (A Cupids 400 Event) See cupidscovechatter.com

July 8 Dildo Shore to Shore Concerts Join celebrated Newfoundland and Labrador musician, singer, songwriter Jim Payne and friends for an evening of music, song and dance. Goodwill Lodge #84 SUF 8:00 pm $15.00 2:00 – 4:00 pm $5.00 (A Cupids 400 Event) See cupidscovechatter.com

July 8 Spaniard’s Bay Servant of Two Masters – Beni Malone & Wonderbolt Productions A classic Commedia del’arte piece written by renowned Italian playwright Carlos Goldini and adapted for stage by Beni Malone of Wonderbolt Productions. Audiences will be treated to a tapestry of memorable characters, beautiful costumes, manic comic energy as they whirl at a break neck pace through the ever twisting and twirling plot that is the trademark of the commedia del’arte form. Spaniards’ Bay Recreation Centre 8:00 $15.00 (A Cupids 400 Event) See cupidscovechatter.com

July 8-11 CBS Kelligrews Soiree
Schedule for Kelligrews Soiree – July 8 – 11 >>

July 8-July 30 Cupids Colony of the Heart by Ben Pittman Cupids Legacy Centre. 6:00 pm Admission: $25.00 FMI: 528-1610 See cupidscovechatter.com

July 9 Brigus “A Royal Shag Up” Comedy Dinner Theatre. The Queen visits and with the help of our womanizing Mayor and torrid French dancer Fifi LaFlamme, unveils a lot more than a monument! 7:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday evenings through July & August. Choice of menu. Reservations essential. Ph. (709) 528-4044.

July 9 Brigus Servant of Two Masters – Beni Malone & Wonderbolt Productions A classic Commedia del’arte piece written by renowned Italian playwright Carlos Goldini and adapted for stage by Beni Malone of Wonderbolt Productions. Audiences will be treated to a tapestry of memorable characters, beautiful costumes, manic comic energy as they whirl at a break neck pace through the ever twisting and twirling plot that is the trademark of the commedia del’arte form. St. George’s Heritage Church 8:00 pm $15.00 Email: sueannpye@persona.ca Call 709-528-3575 www.stgeorgesbrigus.ca

July 9-10 Colliers Kitchen Party 7:30pm. Antique Car Show – Field 1-3pm FMI: 229-4333

July 9 Cupids Colony of the Heart: Cupids Legacy Centre 6PM $25.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610 See cupidscovechatter.com

July 9 Cupids Shore to Shore Concert Join celebrated Newfoundland and Labrador musician, singer, songwriter Jim Payne and friends for an evening of music, song and dance Cupids United Church 8:00 pm $15.00 FMI: 528-1610 See cupidscovechatter.com

July 10 Carbonear Fairest Isles, All Isles Excelling – Hot Earth Ensemble Concert feature guest artists, Meredith Hall, soprano, Calvin Powell, baritone, and a group of Madrigal Singers, directed by Kellie Walsh. Presenting music that was played, sung, or danced to in the “Fairest Isle” of England 400 or so years ago. Princess Sheila NaGeira Theatre 8:00 pm $15.00 FMI: 528-1610 See cupidscovechatter.com

July 10 Cupids The Tiring House: New World Theatre – The Indeavour Stage 1PM Tickets $10.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610 See cupidscovechatter.com

July 10 Cupids Feast of the Sword Dinner Theatre: Cupids Community Hall 6PM Tickets $47.50 Children 12 & under $36.25 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610 See cupidscovechatter.com

July 10 Winterton Open House with Miss Newfoundland & Labrador, Sara Green Come spend the afternoon with Wooden Boat Museum\’s own Princess and the Punt! Join Sara Green, reigning Miss Newfoundland & Labrador , a resident of Winterton and former summer employee at the Museum for guided tours. FMI See the Wooden Boat Museum of Newfoundland & Labrador > >

July 10 Bay Roberts “A Time in Pigeon Inlet,” featuring Kelly Russell (Newfoundland and Labrador’s First Tradition Bearer), Russells in the Corner, Pigeon Inlet Players, and a special guest performer for each “Time”. For updates see: pigeoninlet.ca

July 10 Brigus “A Royal Shag Up” Comedy Dinner Theatre. The Queen visits and with the help of our womanizing Mayor and torrid French dancer Fifi LaFlamme, unveils a lot more than a monument! 7:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday evenings through July & August. Choice of menu. Reservations essential. Ph. (709) 528-4044.

July 10 CBS 20th Annual Manuels River Bobber Race. 2:30pm Tickets are now on sale and are available at local outlets and by calling the Chalet at 834-2099.or 834-4950. 2:30pm This years support is especially appreciated, since it will go towards the construction of a new building. In honour of 20th year, prizes will be: $1020.00 – Grand Prize, $520.00 – 2nd prize, $320.00 – 3rd prize, and 7 prizes of $120.00 – $2700.00 total in prizes. Other events will celebrate 20 years of maintaining and protecting the magnificent Manuels River. FMI: manuelsriver.com

July 10 New Perlican Heritage Day

July 11 Cupids The Tiring House: New World Theatre – The Indeavour Stage 1PM Tickets $10.00 Tickets are available at the Cupids 400 Box Office, 467 Seaforest Drive, Cupids NL 709.528.1610 See cupidscovechatter.com

July 11 Brigus Muses & Minstrels Closing Concert Join Jim Payne and Friends (Jim Payne’s Sing Song Inc.) 8:00pm $15 St. George’s Heritage Church Email: sueannpye@persona.ca Call 709-528-3575 (A Cupids 400 Event) See cupidscovechatter.com

July 11 CBS Kelligrews Soiree Folk Festival Launch of The History and Tradition of Conception Bay South Booklets during the Kelligrews Soiree. (A Cupids 400 Event) http://www.cupids400.com/

July 11 Bay Roberts Mussel/Crab Boil with Music Three Sisters on the Bay Roberts East Shoreline Heritage Walk. 2:30-4:00pm FMI: 786-2126 holdinground.com

July 11 Cupids Unveiling of the Cupids 400 Heritage Mat
Legacy Hall, Cupids Legacy Centre. The mat made from 10 – 10×10 original designs by member of the Rug Hooking Guild of Newfoundland and Labrador [RHGNL] from around the province will be hung in the Cupids Legacy Centre. The designs will be packaged and for sale at the Cupids Legacy Centre Museum Shop. 2:00 pm For more information, contact: 528-1610 cupids400.com

July 12 Bay Roberts Opening of the Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse for 2010 Season. 1pm to 5pm E Mail: info@victoriamuseumplayhouse.com Web: www.victoriamuseumplayhouse.com

July 12-13 Bay Roberts Voting for Bay Roberts in Kraft Celebration Tour
bayroberts.com

Bryan Borzykowski’s Blunders

The Demise of Traditional Journalism

Last week, tiny town Bay Roberts, Newfoundland and Labrador, was a victim of the demise of traditional journalism. The highly congested world of traditional reporting has 1000s of reporters seeking the attention of a public (with a short attention span) which is bombarded with information.

What is the obvious solution? Write a short, memorable headline (with catchy words if possible) and make it controversial and/ or sensational.

Best Places to Live 2010

Worst Place to Live in Canada – WRONG

So what did Bryan do? He took the last town on a list of the BEST places to live in Canada and called it the worst place to live in Canada. Just think about it. You are number 10 of the top ten in your graduating class… quite an honour. However, according to Bryan’s logic being number 10 makes you the WORST in your class! Our town was on the MoneySense list of “Best Places to Live 2010.” That was a tremendous achievement!! Of all the cities and towns in Canada, including Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax, Saint John, St. John’s… our community with a population of only 5300 made the list!

So the town was NOT on a list of the Worst Places to live in Canada … it was the last town to make the cut in the BEST PLACES to live in Canada.

Crime Rate – WRONG

But the errors did not stop there. He states that the Bay Roberts has a high crime rate! People living in the town know that is absurd. Overall, Newfoundland and Labrador has one of the lowest crime rates in Canada.

Population Dropping – WRONG

He says the population is dropping, while according to the 2006 Canadian census, it rose by 3.4%. Also, according to the Canadian census 91.1 % of people live in single-detached houses, and 85% of families own their own homes. In 2008 and 2009, there were a total of 157 new housing starts.

No Cultural Activity – WRONG

Perhaps, in his most offensive statement, he says there is “no cultural activity.”

Road to Yesterday Museum Photo: Bay Roberts Heritage Society.

Christopher Pratt Art Gallery Photo: Bay Roberts Heritage Society

The Cable Building is both a Provincial Heritage Structure and a National Historic Site. The Building has been restored and contains the award winning Road to Yesterday Museum and the Christopher Pratt Art Gallery. The town has one of the finest town museums in the province. Hilary Cass, a respected visual artist, was a consultant on the design and layout. The Christopher Pratt Art Gallery is acclimatized and is designed to display a permanent collection of art work, including works by Christopher Pratt. In addition, it hosts the works of well known local artists and visiting art collections.

The town has two summer theatre productions. This summer “A Time in Pigeon Inlet” begins its third season on June 26th. The production features musician and storyteller, Kelly Russell (recognized by the provincial government as Newfoundland and Labrador’s first tradition bearer earlier this year). The June 26^th performance will be a tribute to Kelly. In July and August, Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse will be featuring a production of “Saltwater Moon” by award winning Canadian playwright David French (who was born on Coley’s Point.) Last summer, they produced his play “Soldier’s Heart.”

A Time in Pigeon Inlet

There will be weekly outdoor musical concerts and sketches during our 2010 “Holdin’ Ground Festival,” starting on July 6^th.

Peter Tiefenbach, Gordon King, Wendy Nielsen, Deanne Hiscock Photo: Dennis Flynn

Many students from our schools are members of the Cantare Youth Choir under the direction of Deanne Delahunty Hiscock, accompanied on piano by Gordon King (both of whom are music teachers in Bay Roberts.) The Cantare Youth Choir performed with Canadian Opera star, Wendy Nielson last month and are performing in Carnage Hall in New York this month. Each year, schools run “Art Smart Programs.” In addition to school music and art programs, there are a number of teachers who offer private lessons in voice, instruments, dance, and art, and we have our own dance school in town – Catherine’s Dance Studio.

On a small scale, we are carrying out many activities that help to preserve traditional Newfoundland culture.

Community Spirit

What makes the town of Bay Roberts exceptional is its community spirit. In the past year alone, the town has won four major awards.

For Winter Lights Celebrations, it won the National WinterLights Celebration Mentoring Award and Circle of Excellence 5 Star Award for Residential Lighting. During the summer, it won the 2009 Tidy Towns Award – Population category of over 3500 and the 2009 Torngat Municipal Achievement Award in the category of Environmental Sustainability with the Town of Spaniard’s Bay – won for their joint efforts on the Shearstown Estuary.

Although we make no pretenses to grandeur, Bay Roberts deserved to be on the list of Best Places to Live 2010.

Three Sisters - Shoreline Heritage Walk

Research, Reference and the Press

Bryan’s article is the perfect example of what I have been talking about in my ongoing series on the media.

He took an attention-getting headline and half-truths combined with misinformation, and spun both to suit his purpose which was to get hits on his website. In this case, his actions were annoying, but not devastating.

However,  many times have we observed the same type of reporting about other places when the consequences tip the balance between life and death. In this age, when reporters are no longer journalists, and most are unethical and unscrupulous about what they write and what they print, we must all be slow to believe what is shown and what is written.

In the case of the misinformation about our town, it was hurtful and annoying – but not threatening to life, property and community social structures. In other cases, this type of un-researched, half-truths in media writing can have a bandwagon effect. Un-truths have the potential to build the type of prejudice and hatred which can eventually lead to the destruction of all we love and value as a society.

About the Town of Bay Roberts:

Street View on Bay de Verde Peninsula, Conception Bay Centre, and CBS!

Yesterday, completely by chance, “street view” on Google maps for Route 60 and Route 70 popped up when I was searching for a map for one of the websites we look after.  You can travel both routes, seeing 360 degree views,  in both Conception Bay North and Trinity Bay South, as well as Conception Bay Centre and Conception Bay South.  For the most part the views keep to the two main routes, but all the camera work was done on a beautiful day in the summer of 2009, so that a person who is not familiar with the area can get a good idea of what can be seen, and actually locate addresses that are on the Conception Bay Highway and the Trinity South Highway.

Street View Does Bay de Verde

One town where the view deviates from Route 70 is Bay de Verde. Click the link and you will see clothes on a clothesline on the left and the Bay de Verde Post Office straight and the harbour straight ahead. You just double click to move ahead or back. Amazing!

Google Map Person

To see a specific spot on the highway, just click on the little yellow person symbol with your mouse, and drag it to the spot on the highroad that you want to see. You will be able to see it at 360 degrees. It is a wonderful way to see exactly where you want to go and to locate a specific place.  So far I have looked at the Conception Bay Highway though Brigus, Bay Roberts, Spaniard’s  Bay, Harbour Grace,  and Carbonear.  It took at look at a great 360 degree view of the Shearstown Estuary.  (Unfortunately, the keep to the highway, so you cannot see the Shoreline Heritage Walk. ) I have also checked out Trinity Bay and you can clearly see Shag Rock from Route 60 and all the communities, such as Blaketown, Dildo, New Harbour, Whiteway, Heart’s Content, and Heart’s Delight. It is certainly the next best thing to being here!

Provincial Historic Commemorations Program

Last week, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced the first-ever designations under the newly-established Provincial Historic Commemorations Program. The program is designed to  recognize and commemorate distinctive aspects of our province’s history, culture and heritage. Dildo Island, which represents more than 2,500 years of occupation by various cultures, was commemorated as a Place of Provincial Significance.   Kelly Russell, well-known fiddler and tireless promoter of Newfoundland and Labrador’s traditional music, was recognized under the category of Tradition Bearer.

Because we worked on the  Baccalieu: Crossroads for Culture Project and have worked closely with clients in the Dildo area, as well as with Kelly and his family through the Bay Roberts Cultural Foundation and “A Time in Pigeon Inlet,” we have in depth knowledge about the two choices.

Kelly Russell, at the March 3rd Award Ceremony, with his book of musical notation.

Kelly Russell

Like almost everyone in the province, I was familiar with Kelly Russell, the fiddle player, but until “A Time in Pigeon Inlet,” I did not know that he is also a skilled storyteller,  a producer and director, and recorder and arranger of music. With his company Pigeon Inlet Productions, he has produced Tales from Pigeon Inlet (3CD set, featuring 30 original recordings of his father, Ted Russell’s works) and a number of other compilations of music and spoken word by the best know performers in the province.

He has developed and printed two unique books of musical notation:  Fiddle Music of Newfoundland & Labrador – Volume 1 – The Music of Rufus Guinchard & Emile Benoit, containing musical notation to over 250 fiddle tunes learned from master fiddlers Rufus Guinchard and Emile Benoit. Volume 2 is also now available, containing tunes from 25 other fiddlers around the Province including several fiddlers from Labrador.

Needless to say, over the past two years, I have gained tremendous respect for Kelly’s contribution to the culture and heritage of the province, and he is very worthy of the name Tradition Bearer.  A Time in Pigeon Inlet which he produces in cooperation with the Bay Roberts Cultural Foundation, helps to preserve the legacy his father, Ted Russell and to preserve the traditions and culture of outport Newfoundland.  His own website, Pigeon Inlet Productions, www.pigeoninlet.com,  provides information about the items he has produced, and his contribution to ensuring future generations are aware of our traditional music.

Dildo Island

Dildo Island was also an excellent choice. Dildo Island, is relatively unknown outside the region, although it is a treasure of international interest on many levels.  The fact that so many different cultures chose to live there, speaks volumes.  The island is located in area which is visited by seals, whales, and various types of birds.  Fish swim in the water and the land provides quantities of berries and other editable plants. A caribou migration path was located in nearby Blaketown, and various types of small animals such as rabbits and beaver live in the woods. The various  cultures that occupied the island took advantage of the abundant food supply. In spite of the many excesses of hunting and fishing habits during the last half of the  20th century, the island, the waters around it, and the Dildo area are still home to many species of plant and animal life on land and in the water.  Dildo and Dildo Island can be the site for marvelous hiking trips, studying the natural history of the area.

Journey Through Time

Everyone loves a good story and the story of human habitation on Dildo Island is an amazing tale. I was first introduced to that story by William Gilbert, chief  archaeologist, when Baccalieu Consulting worked with him to produce a booklet for the Baccalieu Trail Heritage Corporation entitled Journeys Through Time: 10 Years of Archaeology on the Baccalieu Trail. The amount of   documentation and the number of artifacts that have been found are truly amazing, and William Gilbert has an ability to tell a detailed technical story in plain, coherent language  that is easy to understand.

In 2005, we were project managers for Baccalieu: Crossroads for Cultures, which brought together a large number of groups and individuals, including William Gilbert, to tell the   17th century history of the region, in preparation for the Cupids 400 Celebrations, which are taking place this year.

Tools of the Dorset Eskimo

For a person who loves history and anthropology, the ability to be able to handle items that people used on that island over two thousand years ago is unimaginable. It was fascinating to learn that the Dorset Eskimo over 1000 years ago actually fashioned lamps which burned seal oil and that they produced serrated blades on their cutting  instruments.

It was eerie to read Henry  Cout’s 1613 account of landing on Dildo Island.  He entered a Beothuk home where the fire pit was still warm and examined the inside, seeing how they slept.  When he was ready to go, he left gifts for the Beothuk that own the home. The following day, when he returned, he found the Beothuk had left a gift of cooked meat for them. It is heartbreaking to  read his plea, saying do no harm to the Beothuk  people, in the light of later events.

More Information about Dildo Island

If you are interesting in following the story of Dildo Island and of the visit by the Cupids colonists, you can find detailed information.

From Baccalieu: Crossroads for Cultures – “The Beothuk at Dildo Island”  (available in English and French )

From Baccalieu: Crossroads for Cultures – Henry Crout’s letter to Sir Percival Willoughby, Summer 1613 transcribed by William Gilbert  (available in French and English)

If you want to find more information about the archaeological dig, and the various cultures that occupied Dildo Island, you can find detailed information.

From Baccalieu Digs  (website of the Baccalieu Heritage Corporation, maintained by William Gilbert, chief archaeologist) – Dildo Island

And, to find information about events and activities of Cupids 400, you can see Cupids Cove Chatter.

Accommodations in the Region

If you are interested in visiting the area, we maintain websites for a number of accommodations.  These accommodations consist of B & Bs, Cottages, RV and Camping Parks and range in cost.  The whole area covers a radius of about 40km, so if you stay in one place, you are with easy driving distance of all other parts.

Cupids area:  Blumblebee B & B (Brigus), Roaches Line RV Park & Cottages (Roaches Line), Rose Manor (Harbour Grace), and Klondyke Cottage (Bay Roberts)

Dildo area: George House Heritage B& B and Inn By the Bay (Dildo),  Blueberry Hill B & B (Cavendish),  Ocean Delight Cottages (Whiteway) and Ocean Delight Cottages (Heart’s  Delight)

In addition, we maintain the website for Northern Bay Sands RV and Camping Park, which is also on the Baccalieu Peninsula.

We also maintain the website for Northern Avalon Tourism Association – Accommodations – All the accommodations listed are within an hour of the Cupids – Dildo area.

Social Media – Outcomes

Over the past year and a half, I have been developing an understanding of how to engage Social Media to assit clients.  The philosophy behind social media is very simple. ” Word of mouth” advertising is the most effective type.  People trust the opinions of a good friend.  Therefore, if people online come to know you as a “real person,” or a friend, they will trust a product or service or idea, that you offer or endorse.  Social media, since it is the place where people meet, chat, and exchange stories has become the new “village square” – the new market place.  I try to expand on this concept with clients, and suggest that all of them have active Facebook, Flickr, and Twitter accounts, and a blog to accompany their websites.

Social media sources give information to people “where they are”  – that is in the “global village square of social media.”  However, that is not the only advantage of using Social Media.  All these entrance points create more paths to your sales or services information.  Statistically, they greatly increase the probability that people will be able to find you in the extremely congested world of the Internet.

Outcomes

February brought outcomes for our exploration into social media.  Our clients Todd Warren and Dale Cameron owners of the George House Heritage Bed and Breakfast in Dildo, NL, have won the Sixth-annual Tourism Atlantic Technology Award at Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador’s Lookout! Tourism Summit 2010. In addition, we have set up a new blog for Cupids 400 Inc, which we have called Cupids Cove Chatter – www.cupidscovechatter.com.

George House Heritage Bed and Breakfast

George House Heritage Bed & Breakfast

Todd and Dale approached me last year to set up a new website for George House Heritage Bed and Breakfast. We discussed the role of social media.  In addition to developing their website www.georgehousebnb.com, I set up a WordPress Blog and suggested the name “An Outport Called Dildo.”  We were all amazed that we  the domain name  www.newfoundlandoutport.com had not been taken.  I also suggested that they actively use their Twitter Account FaceBook account and use a Flickr account which they also called “Newfoundland Outport” for photos. They engaged Reservation Nexus (ResNexus) to set up their online reservation, and we incorporated the coding in their existing website. As well, they updated Google.com and Google Maps with their  GPS coordinates and contact information.

An Outport Called Dildo

Cupids Cove Chatter

Cupids Cove Chatter

Dray Media had already established the main website for Cupids 400 Inc. – www.cupids400.com and the Cupids 400 staff had set up on FaceBook and  Flickr, when they approached Baccalieu Consulting to establish a blog.   Cupids Cove Chatter, which is the name we chose, is up and running. The blog will introduce and describe events from an “on the ground” perspective.  Henry Crout, one of John Guy’s Colonists. is the avatar.  Although a number of people including John Guy and Sir Percival Willoughby recorded information about the first English colony in Canada, Henry Crout recorded what was happening “on the ground.”  We are using Cupids Cove Chatter to introduce and describe events from an “on the ground”  perspective.

We have also set up a Flickr Group:  Cupids 400 – Birth of English Canada There are already 180 photos in the group and we are inviting people  to become members and add their own photos.

Cupids Cove Chatter has accounts and photos of  the Royal Visit of  the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall as well as visits from Premier Danny Williams, Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and the arrival of the Olympic Torch.

For the month of February, a Valentine’s Fund Raising Dinner and a visit from acclaimed Newfoundland author of Galore, Michael Crummy are highlights.

We hope this blog will last in the virtual world for as long as the journals, books and other documents of the other colonists have lasted!  In 400 years time, perhaps someone will see them and get a picture of life in the 21st century, just as the documents from Henry Crout and other colonists give us a picture of life as it was in the 17th century.

The Rock… from Many Perspectives: Newfoundland Photography.

Living in Newfoundland and Labrador inspires photography.  The spectacular setting of the capital of St. John’s, as well as the unique local housing, such as Jellybean Row, and Quidi Vidi Village, are frequently photographed.

In “Outports,”  located on the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean,  the ever changing moods of wind, light, and water are a photographer’s delight.  Because the province is very sparsely populated, nature is on the doorstep… many varieties of birds and other wildlife are frequently seen;  wildflowers, trees, and other plant life is always on display.  And of course, rocks and rocky seascapes are everywhere.

Our own photos of Bay Roberts and nearby communities on the Northern Avalon can be found on Flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/baccalieu/

Because of the quality and variety of  Newfoundland Amateur Photographers who display their works on Flickr and blogs, we have been using these for time as a source for regional photos for both print and websites.  After finding a suitable photo, we contact the person who has posted it and ask for permission to use the photo, assuring him or her that we will credit the work in any publication.    Almost without exception, they have given permission.

Below is a listing of some sites we check very frequently for the quality of their photos:

Karen Chappell  Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada

Karren Chappell - Family views Iceberg

http://bitstop-nfld.blogspot.com/

Lloyd C. Rees: Location: Chamberlains, CBS (On the other side of Conception Bay from Bay Roberts) – photos of seascapes, birds, wildflowers, historic photos.

Lloyd Rees - Sailing near Bell Island

http://lloydsnfldpics.blogspot.com/

Clyde Barrett: Location: Bishop’s Cove, Conception Bay North (On the other side of Spaniards’ Bay Harbour.) photos of birds, seascapes, icebergs, wildflowers, boats.

Clyde Barrett - Young Bald Eagle

http://www.flickr.com/photos/clbarret2003/

Geoff Whiteway : Location: St. John’s.  He teaches at the Marine Institute, which is affiliated with Memorial University, in St. John’s.  His photos have a unique look and feel.

Iceberg Off Shore by Geoff Whiteway

http://www.flickr.com/photos/21096258@N05/

Jean Knowles : Location:  St. John’s.  She is a Tour Guide in Newfoundland and Labrador. Her photos are of scenery, wildlife and flowers.

Jean Knowles - Iceberg from Signal Hill

http://www.flickr.com/photos/song_of_the_sea/

Mark Robertson Tsang: Location: West Coast Newfoundland. He is a ski instructor/coach in the winter months and is also a tour guide.  His photos of wildlife and plants are amazing – he even uses the correct biological terms.

Mark Robertson Tsang - Great Northern Peninsula

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mark_r_tsang/

I will be presenting another list in the near future.  There are just too many to include in one posting.

The Town of Brigus

Town of Brigus Photo: John Jerrett

The Town of Brigus have been our clients since 2006. Considering that the town of Brigus has a population of less than 1000, the number of people who visit the website is amazing. For the month of October, the average number of visitors per day is 164, and the average number of page views per day is 518. In August, the month of the Blueberry Festival, there were a total of 8375 visitors who viewed 38,135 pages. During the past year, there have been 65,297 visitors who viewed 224,534 pages.

Blueberry Festival

We think there will be even more visits this year when the Historic Sites Association of Newfoundland and Labrador will host Celebrating Bartlett 2009 – a province-wide, year-long program of events and attractions featuring symposia, heritage fairs and ceremonies. Captain Robert Abram Bartlett, a native son of Brigus, was a world-renowned Arctic explorer and mariner during the first-half of the 20th century.

We worked closely with Wayne Rose, the Town Clerk/Manager on the development of the website. He wanted the site to have a strong visual appeal. He was absolutely correct!

As part of the visual appeal, we have included a flash header with photos of various parts of Brigus. We have also included panoramic views of the town which we prepared using javascript. We have also included 7 albums of brigus scenery. The photos which were provided by the town were taken by a number of photographers, each of whom is acknowledged.

Baccalieu Players

We also prepared two maps of the town as PDF documents – a map of the streetsand a map of places of interest.