Rural routes tour coming

Ryan Cook set for five shows across the Island starting in May

Ryan Cook, one of Atlantic Canada’s most celebrated country artists, is coming to P.E.I. for a string of performances in rural communities as part of the Atlantic Presenters Association (APA) and the Association of Rural Community Halls (ARCH) Rural Routes Tour.

The multi-ECMA and Music Nova Scotia award-winning artist has five performances across the Island beginning on May 16 at the Tracadie Community Centre and ending at the Souris Show Hall on Sunday, May 20 with stops in Milton, AbramVillage and New London.

Cook will be performing songs from his new album, “Having A Great Time”. as well as cuts from his heralded back catalogue.

Tickets are available now at www.ryancook.ca.

“I’m really excited to be returning to Prince Edward Island this year,” says Cook.

“My fondest memories starting out in music were touring with Island artists like Gordie MacKeeman, Nudie and Meaghan Blanchard.

Rural communities are often where great art is born and most appreciated, so this tour is especially meaningful to me.”

As part of the Rural Routes Tour, APA and ARCH are launching a performance opportunity for emerging Island artists to support Cook as the opening act on this tour.

“APA is proud to be working with ARCH members on P.E.I. to deliver the Rural Routes program. What a fantastic opportunity for these five communities to see an amazing award-winning artist like Ryan Cook in their own backyard,” says Laurie Gillis, APA’s executive director.

“We are also thrilled to be adding the performance opportunity for emerging Island artists. P.E.I. is known for its depth of talent and we look forward to seeing the new voices coming out of the province.”

There will be five artists chosen by a panel of judges made up by representatives from the participating halls. Applications are now being accepted.

The deadline to apply is April 2. Certain criteria applies. Visit www.atlanticpresenters.ca for full details.