Fans of the musical score from the smash-hit movie Avatar will find familiar sounds when International Choral Kathaumixw begins on Tuesday, July 3, with the Gala Opening Concert.
Hours of volunteer labour have turned Hap Parker Arena at Powell River Recreation Complex into the Great Hall, the main venue for the five-day celebration.
Laszlo Tamasik Dance Academy junior and senior company members will perform during “Adiemus” written by composer Karl Jenkins. In addition to being in Avatar, the music has been covered by Irish singer Enya.
“There is a pop component to the music,” said music director Walter Martella, “that I know will delight the audience.”
A large choral work entitled “Gloria,” also by Jenkins, will be performed by the Festival Choir, an organist, and brass and percussion musicians.
Martella describes the three selected movements as “an epic piece, rhythmically exciting like concert fireworks. They are very compelling and appealing to all types of audience members. I’d say they have a world music feel and sound.”
Retired CBC Radio host Mark Forsythe is returning to emcee for a second straight year.
“He did a wonderful job for us last time,” said Martella. “He was absolutely eager to come back and we were eager to have him back.”
The traditional presentation of colours, parade of choirs, welcome from Tla’amin Nation elder Dr. Elsie Paul and blessing of the new totem pole are all part of the opening.
Tyler Koopman-Googh has been chosen the sing the solo part of “The Spacious Firmament,” the Kathaumixw anthem by Tobin Stokes, who grew up in Powell River. Each festival a young Powell River singer is chosen for this honour.
Some international choirs have been asked to be part of Choral Spotlights.
“We’ve requested they perform something that represents their part of the world,” Martella explained.
The popular duo of baritone Chad Louwerse and soprano Megan Skidmore will entertain with “The Song That Goes Like This” from the Broadway hit Spamalot.
To close the concert, Louwerse and Martella will combine to teach a song that encourages audience participation.
“It’ll be a fun conclusion to the night that will have our audience coming back again and again over the next four days to enjoy our musically diverse festival,” said Martella.
International Choral Kathaumixw Gala Opening Concert
Where: Great Hall in Powell River Recreation Complex
When: 8 pm, Tuesday, July 3
Information: kathaumixw.org, 604.485.9633
