Fourteen performers are putting on a show for visitors at an event held today to raise funds for the Canadian Red Cross Typhoon Haiyan relief effort.
Country musician Melissa Livingstone was recently doing a soundcheck in a local coffee shop when event organizer James Blonde asked her if she’d be interested in playing.
“I didn’t even know this (fundraiser) was going on. Then I heard about it and I (thought): I’d love to be part of that—I’d love to be able to help people in another country,” said Livingstone, whose new album is set to release Friday.
Revolution Events have organized Saturday’s event, which takes place from 2 to 9 p.m at the Rotary Centre for the Arts. Blonde, who is co-founder of Revolution Events, said he is impressed by members of the arts community who have been willing to take part.
“For the arts community to come out…and volunteer their time and (help) raise money—we’re really happy,” said Blonde.
“They’re the people who are stepping up and saying, ‘we can do this.’ We’re really grateful.”
The organizer of the family-friendly concert admitted the event had a bit of a slow start; however, by 4 p.m. the Rotary Centre for the Arts was filling up.
Blonde said many people stayed to watch performances, but several also just came by quickly to drop off a donation.
“Some of the cheques were hitting up over the $1,000 mark, which is great.”
He added local residents who have family in the Philippines helped spread the message about the event.
wpaterson@kelownacapnews.com
Twitter: @PatersonWade
