MEET OUR ENTERTAINERS

The Festival begins on Thursday, November 15 with Opening Night.  This year’s theme is “RUSSIA”, so guests will be serenaded by violinist, Zeke Mazurek.  Although Zeke is best-known for his fiddling, he is also an accomplished violinist in the classical style, including Russian and Eastern European music.

Back by popular demand is the Manhattan Rouge Jazz Trio featuring Lenni Stewart (vocals), Francis Rose (piano) and Steve Conley (percussion).  They perform an eclectic mix of torch songs, standards and Broadway tunes with a splash of boogie blues.

Friday, November 16 begins bright and early.  Friday is officially ‘Seniors’ Day’ but will also include family programming.  At 10 a.m., Andy Forgie will perform his special repertoire designed for seniors.  Musical versatility is the name of the game for Andy.  Known as a children's entertainer and a rock and roll singer, in the past several years Andy has become one of our area's most sought after performers for seniors.  From Broadway to the Beatles, songs from the war years, standards and seasonal favourites, Andy does it all.

During the lunch hour, you’ll hear wonderful Russian music (CDs), then Dennis Whitty performs at 1 p.m.  Dennis has been energizing crowds with his inspired performances for over 20 years. Armed with an acoustic guitar, a rich, powerful and sensitive voice, a mix of original material and spirited cover tunes, Dennis never fails to deliver.  At 2 p.m., singer/songwriter Bev Verge will perform a combination of folk ballads, R&B tunes, classics and contemporary songs along with Christmas songs.

A new event this year is the Russian High Tea.  Zeke Mazurek will work his magic again as he strolls through Windows On The Bay playing lively and romantic Russian and Eastern European music.

Saturday and Sunday, November 17 and 18, will feature entertainment in the Lobby, the Sagonaska Room and the Belleville Room which will house the Children’s Workshop by Family Space.

We are thrilled to bring Washboard Hank and his great repertoire of music for kids and adults.  Hank plays guitar, banjo, kazoo, dobro and a truly amazing conglomeration of bells, licence plates, duck calls, etc. His repertoire includes bluegrass, rockabilly, country, television themes and Oktoberfest.  Hank has appeared on dozens of TV shows (including The Elephant Show and Mr. Dressup) and spent four years as a member of Fred Eaglesmith's band, performing across North America.  Come hear songs from his new CD, Big Fun For Kids.

Other children’s performers include Rick Bauer who knows a ton of great sing-alongs and action tunes, and storyteller/actor, Peter Norman, who will captivate the kids with charming Christmas stories.  Another great storyteller, Sylvia Draaistra, will present interactive stories and activities, taking the kids on a fun adventure to different lands.

Also on the program is Lazy John, an energetic band that draws inspiration from different genres such as Appalachian, Stringband, Bluegrass, Jazz and Blues.  If you’re a fan of the O Brother, Where Art Thou?-style music, you will love this band.  Their tight harmonies and incredible musicianship have gained them the respect of roots and progressive music fans alike.

Catfish Willie and Big Wood are known for their unique brand of lively swing, jazz, humourous ditties and high-energy show tunes.  Big Wood features Catfish Willie on guitar and vocals, Rick Bauer on guitars, mandolin, fiddle and vocals, and Ken Grant on bass and vocals.

Pianist/composer, Lenore Dixon will play music about trees - Christmas and otherwise!  She’s also bringing along some hand bells for children to shake/ring during a rendition of Jingle Bells; some drums for Drummer Boy; and miscellaneous rhythm instruments for other songs.

Thomas Maracle will perform for all ages as well as a special performance for children where they can see his drums and flutes close-up.  Thomas has just released his fifth CD of original music – Dancing Spirits. His previous work – Spirit Land Band – won the Best Instrumental Album and Best Contemporary Album at the 2001-02 Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards.

Penny and John Kitchen are planning a set of seasonal favourites that everyone can sing along to.

Vivian (Viv) Thompson, known in the area as a musician, composer and teacher, will perform original piano compositions from her CD, Diversion. The clarity of her classical harmonies provides an elegant setting for her personal melodies.  Accomplished bassist Ken Grant will join Viv for a set of popular and seasonal favourites.

Other performers planned for Saturday and Sunday are Karen Archer and Lisa Kemp (clarinet and flute), and David and Mark Weatherall (guitar/flute and violin).

The Snow Ball on Saturday night (already sold out!) will feature a great new dance band, the Janet Jeffery Soul Band.  Formed in the Fall of 2006, this band consists of vocalist, Janet Jeffrey; Ann Orrett on back-up vocals, keys, and guitars; Eric Meyers on vocals, guitar and keys; and is supported by the strong rhythm section of Lauchie Headrick on bass and Heather Weaver on drums.

All Festival of Trees entertainment is sponsored by Classic Hits 95.5.  Please note - the entertainment line-up is subject to change.  For festival information, visit www.festivequinte.com or call 613-962-1232.  For tickets, call 613-962-1232 or visit the QAC office at 36 Bridge St., East, Belleville.

Click here for the Entertainment Schedule.
 

Festival of Trees Diamond Sponsor

Entertainment Sponsor