Canal concerts feature tribute groups, local artists
Honeymoon Suite performing during world polo championships
NIAGARA ROCKERS Honeymoon Suite are among bands that will perform on Welland’s floating stage this summer.
People are already getting excited for the Concerts on the Canal series, says Amanda MacDonald, executive director of the Downtown Welland BIA, who adds that within a day of announcing the lineup for the concerts on Facebook, the post was seen thousands of times.
Taking place on the floating stage in the downtown core, the series kicks off with Steve Strongman on June 22, followed by nine other acts, including a special performance by Honeymoon Suite during the opening ceremonies of the ICF Canoe Polo World Championships on July 30.
The rest of the lineup features tribute bands and local talent.
“We know tribute bands are a draw for people. They want to hear classic music,” MacDonald said.
Kiss, Pink Floyd, Garth Brooks
and The Tragically Hip are just a few of the artists that will be covered during the summer series.
There are some artists who will be performing original work, however, such as Strongman and My Son the Hurricane, which closes off the series on Aug. 24.
MacDonald said the BIA wanted to keep the shows family friendly, which played a big part in which groups were chosen to perform.
Another consideration was local talent, including for the opening acts for the tribute groups.
There will be food vendors at the concerts, including selections from the Feast Street Niagara lineup. MacDonald said there will be picnic tables and eating areas set up.
None of these shows would be possible without the partnership between the downtown BIA, the city and corporate sponsors, she said.
“This is not for profit. We really want to build our sense of pride in Welland and we want to build our community. We want to give the best show possible.”
Each of the shows is free to attend. Except for a 2 p.m. show on July 14, each begins at 7 p.m.
The full concert lineup is available on the BIA website at downtownwelland.ca or on the Facebook page Concerts on the Canal.