Arts groups rally to raise money for flood victims
The arts community is rallying to present an Edmonton concert that will raise money for flood victims in the south of the province.
The show, dubbed Operation Remedy, happens next Friday at 8 p.m. to benefit Red Cross Alberta’s flood relief efforts. It features musical performances by Juno-winning jazz saxophonist P.J. Perry, Bedouin Beats, Calgary Concert Opera, vocal artist Michelle Rios, Pro Coro Canada, Array String Quartet and the Felt Hat String Band, among others.
Vinok World Dance and Teatro La Quindicina are also slotted to perform at the event, which happens at All Saints Anglican Cathedral (10035 103rd St.).
Darcia Parada of Edmonton’s Mercury Opera started organizing the fundraiser as soon as she heard about the severe devastation in places like High River, Calgary and Canmore. The June floods are now pegged as the worst flooding disaster in Alberta history. Preliminary damages are estimated between $3 billion and $5 billion.
“When all the images started I thought ‘oh my God, what can I do’?” Parada recalls. “I spent the weekend being horrified, then I thought: ‘I know, I can do a fundraiser.’ And I got on the horn Monday.”
The church holds about 600 people and Parada is hoping the show sells out. Visual artist Jill Thompson has also donated a painting, which organizers plan to auction or raffle off.
“It would be great to raise $20,000,” Parada says. “All the proceeds go to the cause.”
Tickets are $25 in advance from Tix on the Square at 780420-1757 or tixonthesquare. com, or $30 at the door (cash or cheque). Charitable receipts are available for a portion of the ticket price.
Remedy Café and other local businesses are providing refreshments for the show. For more information, visit mercuryopera.com.
Fandango’s Night Club (12912 50th St.) is also hosting a fundraiser concert for aboriginal communities in the Calgary area affected by the recent flooding. Many members of the Siksika, Tsuu T’ina and Stoney Nations have lost access to their homes and are in need of financial support.
That show happens at Fandango’s on Saturday, July 6 at 2 p.m. with performances by aboriginal music and dance artists. All funds will be forwarded to the Aboriginal Multi-Media Society.