The sound of music returns to town for the 42nd annual Stettler and District Music Festival from April 14 to 25. But music is not all you can look forward to.
“The festival is an opportunity for performers and audience alike to enjoy the arts in many forms: vocal and instrumental music, theatre arts, speech arts, and dance,” says Lorna Piché, the festival’s media secretary.
“The calibre of talent in this area is outstanding, but not surprising because we have so many dedicated instructors and performers.”
“We also continue to have great support from the business community for which we are most appreciative,” says Piché.
“It’s an invaluable experience for all performers and delightful entertainment for the whole community.”
Both competitive and non-competitive performances take place over the 11 days in two venues, Stettler Performing Arts Centre and St. George’s Anglican Church.
“Last year’s event featured 793 entries with about 2000 performers. Entries this year are up slightly,” said Piché.
“We have entrants from Erskine, Big Valley, Botha, Donalda, Gadsby, Halkirk, Castor, Consort, Coronation, Delburne, Hanna, Bowden, Three Hills, Innisfail, Wimborne and of course, Stettler.”
Adjudicators will be coming from all over the province.
The schedule of events includes:
• Vocal – April 14 to 16 at St. George’s Anglican Church
• Musical theatre – April 16 and 17 at PAC.
• Piano – April 18 and 19 at PAC
• Band – April 20 at PAC.
• Speech and school chorus – April 21 and 22 at PAC.
• Dance – April 23 to 25 at PAC.
Top performers take centre stage during the grand finale concert at Stettler Performing Arts Centre on April 27 at 7 p.m.
Organizers urge spectators to arrive early for all performances as the doors will not be opened during the performances or adjudication.
People are also reminded that food and beverages are not allowed in the venues and no cameras or recording devices are permitted during the festival performances or adjudication.
Festival programs and passes are available in advance from Pfeiffer House of Music in Stettler. For more information, pop into the festival office at Christ-King Catholic Parish Hall from April 14 to 25, or phone 403-742-3518.
Also, check out the festival’s new website at www.stettlermusicfestival.com for volunteer position descriptions and Award of Excellence nomination forms.