There are a couple of great opportunities for people to help support the arts coming up in Summerland.
I’m starting to feel like I say this a lot, but that’s something I’m okay with. Mostly because it means there are a lot of great and exciting things happening around here in the arts these days, but also because the more we get out and support the arts, and get involved, the more I have to write about.
The first is an event that’s happening at the Arts Centre on Wharton Street.
The Thursday Night Jazz Band is going to be performing there on Thursday, April 27 starting at 7 p.m.
Not only is this an opportunity to see live jazz here in town, it’s a great opportunity to help support the Summerland Arts Council.
The folks on the council work hard to help keep the art scene happening here and, the more we support them by attending events like this, the more they’ll feel the love and keep doing things like this for us.
Tickets for this event are a steal at $15 and there’s appies, desserts and drinks for purchase as well.
If you’re around, and you enjoy jazz, be sure to check out this event.
The next opportunity to get involved is something I’ve talked about before, but since this is a very important way to help the arts here in Summerland, I’m going to keep on talking about it until enough people have stepped up.
The District of Summerland is looking for volunteers for the Cultural Development Committee.
This committee is being set up to as a way to help provide a local perspective on the arts and help guide cultural development in Summerland.
This is the perfect chance for anyone who wants to help shape the arts and advise council on matters that involve the arts here in Summerland.
Artists, art lovers and cultural entrepreneurs are all invited to come volunteer for the committee and young adults are particularly encouraged to come out. If you love the arts scene here in town and you have a lot of strong opinions on the direction you’d like to see things go, this is your chance to help be the voice the strengthens our artistic community.
Anyone who is interested in being a part of the committee can get more information from city hall, by visiting www.summerland.ca or by contacting Kayleigh Hall at khall@summerland.ca.
Be sure to check out one, or both, of these chances to support the arts in Summerland.
If you’re unable to do either of the things I talked about this week, at the very least take a moment to thank your favourite local artist for the work they do.
You’d be amazed how far a simple gesture like that can go.
Douglas Paton is a Summerland writer and musician. If you know of a local arts and culture event, contact him at dgpaton80@gmail.com.