Ah, I feel like my summer is complete. I managed to spend a few of summer’s hottest days on the beach, logged more than two full weeks of camping, learned how to solve Sudoku puzzles, neglected my lawn until it was brown and drought-stricken, found myself within 20 feet of a bear, and even had a garage sale.
I do declare that I’m ready for September.
I’m a person who thrives on routine, and that’s what September represents for me.
Getting back into the swing of things is what this month is all about – at least if you’re among those who are in some way synchronized to or affected by the (regular) school year.
Despite those younger folks being unusually schedule-deprived and the hotter-than-usual afternoon temperatures, a closer inspection will reveal frost warnings by night and the official start of autumn only days away.
Have a look at these first few events from an exciting season full of performances in Vernon.
Three-time WWE Champion and Hall of Famer Mick Foley brings his wrestling comedy show to the centre Thursday.
Now retired from the wrestling circuit, the “Hard Core Legend” has poured his self-deprecating charm, gift of gab and all-around-nice-guy persona into Tales From Wrestling Past. Headlocks, punches and steel chairs make for a world of stories, banter and punchlines as Foley tells tales from the ring and road keeping the crowd howling. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Thursday, and tickets are available by calling 549-SHOW (7469).
The Louisiana Hayride continues to delight audiences with their stylized night of tributes that rolls into Vernon Friday.
Special nods to Glen Campbell and Tammy Wynette are featured among tributes to George Jones, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Roy Orbison, Hank Williams and more in an evening of music inspired by the hit radio show from a bygone era.
Showtime is 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Centre on Sept. 19, and tickets are on sale through the Ticket Seller by calling 549-SHOW (7469).
Penticton-based singer Adam Fitzpatrick, recently crowned Grand Champion and People’s Choice at the 2014 Heart of the King contest at the Las Vegas Elvis Festival, is on stage at Trinity United Church for a fundraising performance Saturday.
Known locally for his past performances with the Louisiana Hayride Show, Fitzpatrick has been making waves since going out on his own with his award-winning tribute to the King.
The Sept. 20 concert features Elvis’ Gospel and inspirational songs in support of The Salvation Army Children’s Home in Mazatlan, Mexico. Tickets can be purchased in advance through the Ticket Seller box office by calling 549-SHOW (7469).
Celebrate Culture Days at the Okanagan Regional Library’s Booksmack! at the Performing Arts Centre on September 26th. It’s an evening of book, film and music recommendations as a team of wild and nerdy librarians, authors and storytellers step up to speed-review and defend their chosen titles against those who dare to disagree. Audience participation is strongly encouraged and hilarity may ensue at this free event that starts at 7pm. No registration is required and more information is available online at www.ticketseller.ca.
And the Performing Arts Centre’s 2014/15 presentation season kicks off Sept. 28 as celebrated Canadian music legends Barney Bentall, Jim Byrnes and John Mann take the stage for the centre’s 13th bash. Now is the best time to get your subscriptions and tickets for upcoming theatre, dance, kids’, Morning Melodies and special presentations. Check out more at www.ticketseller.ca/vdpacseason.
– Brian van Wensem is audience development coordinator at the Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre.
