Orillia Matters article-Lightfoot Days 2024

[charlene]

https://www.orilliamatters.com/local...2f4f-318369853

Orillia event will shine light on life and times of Gordon Lightfoot
Memories of Gordon Lightfoot: Stories & Music will feature Lightfoot Band
OrilliaMatters . com
Join us for a heartfelt evening on Nov. 1, 2024, as we honour the legacy of legendary Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot at Memories of Gordon Lightfoot: Stories & Music.
This special event will take place Friday, Nov. 1, 7 to 9 p.m. at Creative Nomad Studios, bringing together friends, family, and fans to celebrate the life and times of this musical icon.
The evening will feature an array of captivating stories shared by those who knew and worked with Gordon, including longtime booking agent Bernie Fiedler, all the members of the Lightfoot Band, and other special guests. Other presenters will include Gordon’s nephew, Steve Eyers, Wanda Hawkins, wife of Ronnie Hawkins, and John Swartz.
Interspersed throughout the storytelling will be musical tributes performed by renowned artists Steve Porter, Don James, and Steve McEown, ensuring that Gordon’s music resonates deeply throughout the night.
We are honoured to feature an exclusive video clip of an interview with Gordon Lightfoot, with Karen Hilfman Millson, who was instrumental in organizing the inaugural Lightfoot Days Pop-Up Festival in the fall of 2023. Karen, who served as minister of St. Paul’s United Church Centre in Orillia — where Gordon performed as a child — passed away in February 2024, leaving a remarkable legacy of passion for the legacy of Gordon Lightfoot.
We want to extend our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to our title sponsor, Tim Corney of RBC Wealth Management. Your generous support is not just appreciated; it truly transforms our efforts and makes a profound difference in everything we do. Thank you for being such a vital part of our journey. We are incredibly grateful for your sponsorship.
We are equally grateful to KnightVision Creative Agency for their dedication to supporting both the workshops and the Memories event. Your contributions are vital in shaping our festival’s success.
A special thank you also goes to Carole & Roy Timm Photography for their invaluable support of the Memories of Gordon Lightfoot: Stories & Music event. Your commitment enriches our community and creates lasting memories.
We are grateful to Wagg’s Uniform Services for contributing to the Lightfoot Band workshops, Nov 1, 1 and 2:30 p.m., at Creative Nomad Studios. This event will feature all the band members sharing their experiences working with Gordon and showcasing techniques and music.
Thank you to all the incredible companies that have generously sponsored services. Your support is vital to ensuring the festival’s success, and we deeply appreciate your commitment to making this event a memorable experience for everyone.
A series of paintings presented by North Simcoe Arts, featuring imagery of Gordon Lightfoot and his music, will be on display at Creative Nomad Studios during the Lightfoot Band workshops and the Memories of Gordon Lightfoot: Stories & Music event.
This event is free to attend on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserved seating will be assigned for special guests and sponsors.
The evening will be masterfully hosted by Linda Leatherdale, an Orillia native and accomplished journalist. Known for her engaging storytelling, Linda shared a lifelong friendship with Gordon, making her the perfect guide for this memorable tribute. Linda is an award-winning financial journalist and personal finance expert, known as ‘the Great Defender of Main Street.’
This event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Gordon Lightfoot’s extraordinary contributions to music and culture. Join us for a night filled with laughter and unforgettable melodies.
Tickets:
No tickets required; entry is free. Arrive early.
For more information about the event, please contact:
Daphne Mainprize
Vice-president
Lightfoot Days Festival of Orillia
Email: daphnemainprize@yahoo.ca
We hope to see you there as we celebrate the enduring spirit of Gordon Lightfoot.

[charlene]

https://www.orillialakecountry.ca/li...1VsKy0wSs7zrbQ

Lightfoot Days Festival returns to celebrate the life and legacy of Gordon Lightfoot

Canada’s troubadour, award-winning singer-songwriter, and international folk legend Gordon Lightfoot has left behind an indelible legacy on music and culture. In his hometown, Lightfoot’s musical mark is amplified during the honourary Lightfoot Days Festival of Orillia.

Inspiring generations of local musicians and songwriters, paid tribute to in numerous public art displays and downtown galleries, and having influenced major annual festivals and events including the return and legacy of the Mariposa Folk Festival, Lightfoot has become a vital piece of Orillia’s cultural makeup.

The Lightfoot Days Festival celebrates the legacy of Gordon Lightfoot in Orillia, happening from October 31 to November 3, 2024. This four-day festival will feature a vibrant lineup of music, workshops, art, and community events, honoring the iconic Gordon Lightfoot.

Music Workshops with The Lightfoot Band

Creative Nomad Studios | Friday, November 1st, 1pm & 2:30pm

The Lightfoot Band, who have graced the stage alongside Lightfoot during some of his most iconic performances, promise an afternoon steeped in nostalgia as they recreate the magic of his repertoire with unwavering authenticity and profound respect. The workshops will feature two informative sessions, delving into the rich history of Gordon Lightfoot’s backup band. Participants can expect engaging discussions and live demonstrations showcasing individual instrument parts and arrangements, as well as insights into Gordon’s profound influence on the music over the years. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions throughout the event, making it a must-attend for any Lightfoot fan.

Register by contacting daphnemainprize@yahoo.ca


Memories of Gordon Lightfoot

Creative Nomad Studios | Friday, November 1st, 7pm

Come for an evening of stories and music celebrating the legacy of Gordon Lightfoot. North Simcoe Arts and Creative Nomad Studios will also be showcasing a Lightfoot pop-exhibit, featuring works by local artists inspired by the musician’s music, life and legacy. The event is generously sponsored by Tim Corney Wealth Management. There will be a cash bar and light refreshments. This is a free event, but space will be limited, attendees are encouraged to arrive early.

The Folk Crawl

Various Venues | Wednesday, October 30th – Sunday November 3rd

Folk music has deep roots in Orillia. The Mariposa Folk Festival started here and Gordon Lightfoot was an integral part of of the festival’s successful return to The Sunshine City in the 2000s. Today, folk musicians continue to be inspired by this legacy for the next generation. The Folk Crawl is an essential part of the Lightfoot Days Festival, presented and hosted by various venues throughout Orillia, showcasing the talent and creativity of our local artists. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy fantastic music and connect with fellow festival-goers.

Wednesday, October 30

9 p.m: Couchiching Craft Brewing Co. with Lightfoot Days Trivia.

Thursday, October 31

8:00 p.m.: Enjoy an evening of music with Mark Stewart at Grape & Olive.

Friday, November 1

7:00 – 9:00 p.m.: Join us at Creative Nomad Studios for an engaging night of Musicians and Storytelling with Memories of Gordon Lightfoot: Stories & Music
9:30 – 11:30 p.m.: Head to Couchiching Craft Brewing Co for a performance by Even Steven Duo.

Saturday, November 2

12:00 – 3:00 p.m.: Catch Don James and Friend at Mariposa Market.
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.: Enjoy music by James Gray at Couchiching Craft Brewing Co.
12:00 – 3:00 p.m.: Experience Michael Brown at Apple Annie’s.
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.: Participate in the Open Mic at Alleycats.
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.: Rock out with the Chris Scott Duo at Brewery Bay Food Co.
8:00 – 10:00 p.m.: Return to Brewery Bay for another set from the Chris Scott Duo.
8:00 p.m.: Enjoy Geoff Booth and Craig Graham at Sunken Ship.
8:00 p.m. Featuring Sean Patrick at Lone Wolf Cafe.
8:00 p.m. Experience Even Steven at Lake Country Grill.

Sunday, November 3

12:30 p.m.: Join Steve Porter at Mariposa Market for our closing ceremonies.
1:30 – 4:00 p.m.: Catch the Ian & Jennifer North Duo at Couchiching Craft Brewing Co
3:00 – 5:00 p.m.: Join High Steppin’ Strutters at Picnic Tapas Wine Bar

*Schedule subject to change, visit the Lightfoot Days Facebook page for more information.

Looking for more ways to explore Lightfoot’s legacy in Orillia?

To commemorate the event, Saturday morning will see Mayor Don McIsaac proclaim November 2nd as ‘Gordon Lightfoot Day’ in front of the Orillia Opera House at 11:00 a.m. A familiar performance venue for Lightfoot throughout his career, the Orillia Opera House will be offering history tours, including musical tales from the Lightfoot Auditorium and an exclusive look backstage.

Take a self-guided tour around the City’s Lightfoot displays and tributes. From trail networks to art installations, these touching landmarks are a great way to honour our local hero.

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The Lightfoot Band tickets - Oct.31 2024 - Orillia Opera House
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