Singers, speakers and theatre-makers are preparing applications for the 72nd annual Powell River Festival of Performing Arts.
Featuring master classes for amateur musical performers, choirs, dancers, speakers and piano, the festival, one of the longest running events in the community, started in 1944.
Powell River also hosted artists and musicians from 34 festivals around the province at BC Festival of Performing Arts last summer.
Powell River performer Jeremy Hopper wowed audiences and adjudicators by claiming a rare honour, winning first place in intermediate musical theatre and intermediate vocal variety.
Although this was Jeremy’s fifth provincial festival, he said being able to perform at home was a big part of his win.
“Usually I am sick when I go to provincials,” said the 17-year-old Brooks Secondary School student. “Last year I was okay because I didn’t get so stressed out.”
The provincial festival was organized by a committee consisting of Rotary Club of Powell River and community members. Rotarian Joyce Carlson said hosting the provincial festival was a highlight of the club’s involvement.
“Every year we would send out recommended performers somewhere else for provincials,” said Carlson. “Last year we were able to cheer for them right here at home. We were thrilled by the performances of all Powell River youngsters and especially Jeremy.”
Trained by vocal music teacher Megan Skidmore, Jeremy performed “I Am Adolpho” from the Broadway musical The Drowsy Chaperone.
Also an avid hockey, tennis and baseball player, Jeremy said he was initially reluctant to admit to his singing prowess, but is now proud to be a performer.
“When you are young you think boys aren’t supposed to be into music,” he said, “but now I think, ‘This is what I do, so if you don’t like it, too bad.’”
Jeremy said he was the first person in his family to show any musical talent and credits his mom with noticing and encouraging his singing gift early on.
“I was two and my mom caught me singing the song to this Japanese game show, word for word,” he said. “She has been great in encouraging me.”
While intending to study business at University of British Columbia after graduation, Jeremy said he is applying to take six or seven classes at the upcoming festival, including classical voice and musical theatre.
“Each time you get up on stage it is a little less nerve racking,” said Jeremy. “It really is the best experience taking part in a festival like this.”
Festival performers can range in age from kindergarten through to seniors. Organizers encourage adults and children to take part in various disciplines.
“Our committee hopes more performers in our community will be inspired to participate in the 2016 event,” said Carlson.
Deadline to apply for Powell River’s upcoming Festival of Performing Arts is 4 pm on Tuesday, January 19. For more information go to portal.clubrunner.ca/757/SitePage/2016-festival-of-the-performing-arts.
