Get your groove on

deCoste Performing Arts Centre celebrating all things ‘groovy’ with fundraiser

PICTOU, N.S. — The deCoste Performing Arts Centre has been busy for months, preparing for the upcoming spring season as well as for its fourth Annual GALA fundraiser. This year’s event is Thursday, March 14, at the Pictou venue and will feature performances from the creators of Oh What A Night! and Four By Four. From Las Vegas, it’s an electrifying new show that’s a unique musical revue celebrating the music of ABBA, The Carpenters, The 5th Dimension and The Mamas and the Papas. The dynamic stars of Yesterday Once More sing and dance their way through the hit songs of these pop icons in fully choreographed musical numbers. Hits include The Carpenters’ Close to You, The Mamas and the Papas’ California Dreaming, The 5th Dimension’s Up, Up and Away and ABBA’s Dancing Queen, tied together with enlightening and humorous banter. The cast members are four dynamic performers whose lush harmonic interpretations are featured both individually and as an ensemble. “We’re hoping for another sellout,” said marketing manager Jennifer MacLennan, noting 75 per cent of tickets had been purchased by earlier this week. “We’ve certainly been having a lot of great shows, and this one is sure to be another favourite. Especially with a tribute to these iconic bands of the sixties and seventies.” Prior to the doors opening at 7 p.m. for the 7:30 p.m. start time, the deCoste staff and board will be hosting a receptionfundraiser, beginning at 6 p.m., as a thank you to patrons. It will feature complimentary hors d’oeuvres from Harbour House Restaurant, an open bar as well as the annual Balloon BlitzMystery Prize and Silent Auction fundraisers. “The business community has been very generous with us and have been providing a number of gift certificates, prizes and silent auction items that the patrons are going to be very excited over,” said MacLennan. Inglis Jewelers has donated a Lilac amethyst and diamond necklace valued at over $1,200 as one of the prizes for the mystery balloons that cost $20 to purchase. The Kilted Chef, Alain Bosse, has donated a culinary package that includes two of his signed cookbooks, branded cutting board, spatula and apron valued at $300 as one of the silent auction items. Other items to bid on include a Matt Andersen package and a Bruce Guthro package. The committee have been prepping for some “groovy” decorations that will feature bright colours, disco balls, albums and a few surprises. Those attending are also encouraged to dress in the fashions of the time, and can take advantage of a photo booth and have a picture taken or do their own selfie. Money from this year’s major fundraiser will go toward the Arts Are for Everyone program that board members and staff have been developing with other community organizations who offer support to individuals dealing with barriers that may prevent them from experiencing a cultural performance at the deCoste. This could be anything from mental or physical challenges, transportation, economic or other social stigmatisms. The goal will be to provide tickets for such community members to performances where the venue may not reach full capacity. Anyone interested in attending the “Groovy” celebration can contact the deCoste box office at 902-485-8848; toll free at 1-800353-5338; online at decostecentre. ca or in person at 99 Water St. Box office hours are Monday to Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.