The clock always ticks – and in this case – it is ticking towards the grand finale of the high-profile live concerts and not-to-be-missed Elvis Competition at Roseneath Fairground Stage.
“We have saved the widest of the shows for the last,” says Ida Brown of Keene Centre for the Arts, as also the show organizer and host. “There are still many concerts (see schedule below) to be held starting off with an Elton John tribute by the internationally famous Jeff Scott.”
The next batch of shows kick off on Friday August 20th, and the momentum is maintained till the grand finale on the Sunday Morning of September 5th, when audiences will be rocked by Elvis Priestly.
The host advises fans to get their tickets in advance online at Keenecentreforthearts.com or by e-transfer to ida.blwgd@outlook.com or by texting to (705) 440-0527 to make a reservation and to pay at the gate. Tickets are $25, but only $20 a show if you stay for more than one. Kids and teens get in free! There is even an outdoor kitchen. However, she points out that if you decide to attend at the last minute, “we will still welcome you.”
This coming weekend is very, very special with totally fabulous musicians taking the Roseneath Stage.
On Friday/Saturday, August 20 and 21, there are only three shows, but they are really special ones.
Jeff Scott (tribute star) usually performs in huge concert halls and arenas, but Keene Centre was contacted by them during Covid pandemic and he is now going to perform Epic Elton at the Roseneath fairgrounds.
This is one of the shows that should not be missed, especially given the ticket price, says Ida.
PHOXY MUSIC
This local band is very much loved and adored. Phil and Roxy are a husband-and-wife duo who call themselves Phoxy Music. Their warm harmonies are featured in a vast catalogue of music including original compositions and songs from the 1960s.
Roxanne Flagler is a versatile music artist, winning several female ‘Vocalist of the Year’ and song writing awards. She has travelled internationally and sings several different styles of music including Country, Pop and Soft Rock (www.musicbyroxy.com).
Phil Smith, born and raised in Toronto, ON., is a multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, composer, arranger, producer and actor. His influences include blues-oriented rock, R&B and Singer-Songwriter material. He is also the lead singer and percussionist of ‘Candy Mountain’.
Together they are Phoxy Music. Roxanne and Phil have teamed up with their band, Richard Thomas and Steve McGann to bring a dynamic and versatile musical band that will provide you with an evening of song to remember, says Ida.
CHECKMATE
Another much loved local band is Checkmate. It’s going to be fantastic as always. Founding members Brian and Freda, have played together for many years both as a duo and in a number of bands such as Black Jacket, Influx, Classic Covers and with various other musicians and bands. They play an eclectic mix of Classic Rock, Country, Folk and Blues that’s sure to please everyone. Along with band mates Graham and Doug, this energetic band has loads of fun on stage. Bring your dancing shoes as you won’t stand still.
With over 40 years playing Bass Guitar, Graham toured the UK in the 80s and 90s with the band 42nd Street. After arriving in Canada, he met guitar player Kevin Carley and along with Drummer Doug Hewie, they formed the Kevin Carley Band. In 1998 he had the pleasure to perform with the late Jeff Healey at the legendary Red Dog. In 2019 Graham along with his ‘enthusiasm and energy’ joined the Checkmate Band.
A native of Peterborough, Doug has been very active locally and across Ontario from a young age. A former member of the Lindsay Barr, Robin Hawkins, and Kevin Carley Bands to name a few, he has played drums on a number of CDs including Jeannie L. Thompson’s ‘The Peace Train’. Through friend and bassist Graham Earl, Doug completes the Checkmate Band team and with his ‘dry humour’, is a much-welcome addition.
NEIL YOUNG (TRIBUTE)
Another tribute star that contacted Ida during covid, but who usually plays in huge arenas is Mike Kelly. He brings his audience a mellow acoustic show.
However, he has a high energy rock side to him, which comes out during the shows with his band “The Vinyls”. Mike has been playing for over a decade mastering the sounds of Neil Young, bringing you a Rock ‘n Roll show that captivates the audience.
Ida says we are so honored that this incredible artist is joining us on the stage at The Roseneath Fairgrounds.
AL LERMAN
Veteran bluesman Al Lerman is a multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter.
He was founder and leader of the much-loved 2X Juno Award winning band FATHEAD.
Along the way, he has built a solid career touring as an acoustic solo act.
GUNSLINGERS
With over 60 years of combined experience, the musical strengths of Gunslingers are clearly evident everywhere they play.
Whatever the style of music, the result is always the same – a full dance floor, a happy crowd and a memorable night.
Art Lajambe and original Gunslinger drummer Errol Boucher played together for more than six years and produced three CDs in the band Mahogany Ridge.
With the addition of Dave Crane in May 2014, Gunslingers was born.
THE BEATLES FROM STUDIO TO STAGE
The Liverpool Sessions by Jeff Scott will be performing The Beatles from Studio to Stage.
Get tickets ‘yesterday’ lol. But get them asap, says Ida.
Listen to all the hits from the Fab Four and rock the night away. Travel with them as they begin their journey from a tiny stage in Liverpool on to the world’s top stage, becoming the most popular band of all time.
Don’t miss it.
THE GRAND FINALE – ELVIS PRESLEY
On our Labour Day weekend, the grand finale begins with three days of Elvis Shows – but there is also a very exciting addition to the lineup at the Roseneath Fairground Stage.
The weekend starts on Friday September 4th with the Best Elvis Competition with four contestants – Paul Thain, Berry Chumbley, Ken Arndt and Darren Brown – giving their very best Elvis impersonation for half an hour each.
Judges are Carolyn MacArthur and John Cosway and you. Come cheer them on!
On Saturday, September 5th, MC’s Jim Glover (radio host) and Jack London (Tribute Star) will announce the winner from Friday’s competition and invite him to join headliner Reverend Dorian Arthur Baxter (a.k.a Elvis Priestly) on stage. It will be a performance filled with excitement and music!
BEST ELVIS GOSPEL SHOW
Finally, keeping in character, Sunday, September 5th takes on the gospel aspect of Elvis Presley.
As the Elvis Gospel show begins, the organizers promise to serve you coffee and all of Elvis’ breakfast favorites.
Reverend Dorian Arthur Baxter (a.k.a Elvis Priestly) will perform the gospel classics.
After the show, he will even renew your vows for a fee.
It’s going to be so beautiful and romantic with lots and lots of Elvis music. Don’t miss it, says Ida.
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