Production company gives artists a digital stage
When Denver Gidge returned to Twillingate in the last couple of weeks he’d often sit and talk with his grandmother.
Lately, those conversations have turned to a new venture Gidge is a part of with 618 Entertainment and the work they’re doing at the old United Church. It’s been in the community since 1868 and is connected to most of the residents there.
Now known as the Twillingate Performing Arts Centre, as well as the Gate, Gidge, along with Mike Sixonate and Mike Jenkins, have been busy preparing the space for a series of digital concert series they’re planning.
They’ve moved pews out of the centre and fixed parts of the electrical system to get it ready for their opening stream on June 19.
The show will feature D’arcy Broderick and Ronnie Power and has been sponsored by local businesses like Split Rock Brewing Co., the Anchor Inn, Annie’s Restaurant, the Captain’s Pub, and Twillingate and Beyond.
“This has the potential to be something cool,” said Gidge.
“We’re all excited and it is a cool little thing to be a part of.”
Since the COVID-19 pandemic closed all of the venues in the province, artists have taken to the internet to play shows via various streaming services. Some of the quality has been great and some of it hasn’t.
Giving artists that quality digital space is at the forefront behind their latest venture.
Eventually, when it is safe to do so, the group would like to promote live shows at the Gate as well.
“It is going to be a full production,” said Sixonate.
Using the historic structure as a backdrop, 618 Entertainment wants to give artists across the province the chance to play inside the church and give their fans a top-notch digital experience in the process.
Power has played in Twillingate before and is looking forward to playing at the Gate. People are missing live shows, he says.
“There could be a place … for this after (the pandemic),” said Power. “This might be something that can continue further.”
The show is being streamed on 618 Entertainment’s Facebook page, and people are being encouraged to pay what they can, although they are suggesting a $20 donation.
That money will be used to pay the performers and help with renovations to the Gate.
Those who prepay at least $20 will get entered into a staycation contest featuring a future private concert, accommodations, gas, food and beverages.
Since 618 Entertainment announced it would take over the historic space in early June, the trio has spent more than 100 hours making sure things look and sound just right at the Gate.
Sometimes, Sixonate will catch himself looking around the church and up at its organ.
“It’s pretty cool. To think we’re doing something new age and technical in such an old and historic building, it’s pretty humbling to be a part of,” said Sixonate.