River Clyde Pageant seeking talent

Musicians and puppet makers sought for performances

The River Clyde Pageant is seeking people to get involved in this summer’s pageant, “Wake the River Clyde”.

Last summer, audiences were thrilled and delighted by this travelling performance along a riverbank in New Glasgow, telling a fantastical story about the history of a tidal river and the environmental issues affecting the sustainability of all Prince Edward Island waterways.

The pageant features stiltwalking herons, luminous jellyfish, talking trout, nasty trolls and melodramatic mermaids – all created and performed by local volunteers, artists and community members. “Wake the River Clyde” will have a brand-new story and some exciting additions, including a jazz-funeral band and waterborne puppets, for performances July 30 and Aug. 4-6 at 6 p.m.

Each performance is followed by a free community supper on the lawn of The Mill.

Members of the public are encouraged to get involved as performers, puppet makers/ puppeteers, musicians, builders and production volunteers.

“Ker Wells and I are directing the pageant,” said Megan Stewart. “But the real heart and soul is the talent and imagination of our wonderful volunteers. The pageant gives people a chance

to share their skills and learn new ones, while also delivering an important message about the environment.”

Those interested in puppet making are invited to attend free workshops led by puppet builder Ian MacFarlane at the New Glasgow Christian Church. Workshops begin July 2 and run until July 22. The Jazz Funeral Band will form through a weeklong workshop led by New Orleans performing artists Kathy Randels and Maurice Turner. Musicians and singers of all ages, instruments and skill levels are encouraged to take part in this free workshop, running July 4-9 at Gulf Shore Consolidated School in North Rustico.

To sign up for either workshop or to get involved in any other way, email riverclydepageant@gmail.com Tickets for Wake the River Clyde are admission by donation and must be booked online at www.riverclydepageant.com. Tickets go on sale during the first week of July.