‘In my happy place’
Tara MacLean is excited to return to P.E.I. with her show, ‘Atlantic Blue’
Tara MacLean is a Canadian singer-songwriter on the move.
That’s because, after taking audiences on a musical tour of Atlantic Canada last summer, she’s back for another season at The Guild.
“It feels really exciting to be home again and part of this thriving music scene and doing this show,” says the P.E.I. native, who divides her time between Salt Spring Island and Charlottetown.
Her show, “Atlantic Blue,” is MacLean’s tribute to East Coast songwriters; featuring the music and biographies of people like Ron Hynes, Lennie Gallant, Gene MacLellan, Rita MacNeil, the Rankins and more.
And, for anyone who has seen the show, this year’s new-and-improved edition promises even better.
“There’s a new opening film and a fresh, new vibe.”
The fresh, new energy comes from theatre professionals who came to her assistance after seeing the show.
“Adam Brazier, Duncan McIntosh and David Cyrus MacDonald have all consulted with me. They’ve added to the show tremendously with their directorial eyes. So, I feel it’s technically better and musically elevated from last year,” says MacLean of the show that features her singing songs by her favourite East Coast artists backed up by her band. It consists of Todd MacLean, guitar, piano, saxophone; Cynthia MacLeod, fiddle and accordion;
Jon Matthews, guitar, percussion, accordion and vocals; Deryl Gallant, stand up bass. Understudy musicians are Caroline Bernard, vocals/percussion, accordion; Devin Hornby, bass; and Aaron Crane is alternate fiddler/pianist.
But, at the same time, there have been a few changes.
“I’m writing it, as well as directing and performing in it. I’m also producing it for the second year,” says MacLean, who is thrilled with the support she’s received. “I am in my happy place. I have an incredible list of sponsors, many of whom are back from last year.”
Sally Cole is an entertainment writer with The Guardian. She welcomes comments about her column as well as suggestions for future columns from readers. She may be reached at sally.cole@TheGuardian.pe.ca or by phone at 902-629-6000, ext. 6054.