FERGUS – The lights are back on at the Fergus Grand Theatre (FGT) as a series of live music performances kicks-off this month.
English-Canadian folk duo the Red Dirt Skinners will take the stage in Downtown Fergus on Oct. 29 as part of FGT’s presenter series.
While there are a few other shows on from rentals this month, theatre coordinator Eric Goudie said in a phone interview this is the first show FGT has produced since mid-March 2020.
Goudie said it’s almost indescribable how good it feels to be getting audiences back at the theatre once again after the industry has been quiet for so long.
“The audiences really do miss it, but the people who put on the shows miss it even more and it’s not just about the financial aspect,” Goudie said.
“Although there has been a lot of hardship for a lot of people over the last year and a half, we all really miss that effect and feeling you get on the night of a show when the crowd starts coming into the theatre and the lights are on and everything comes together.”
This upcoming show is part of a presenting series called ‘Healing, Health and Hope’ with all shows geared toward lifting spirits.
Starting this off are husband and wife multi-instrumental folk-duo Red Dirt Skinners who are described in a press release as "The Pink Floyd of Folk Music.”
Goudie said the duo, who he tried to book pre-pandemic, give off the right vibe he’s looking to relaunch the theatre with.
“The vibe I want to bring to the theatre over the next several months is a welcome back and welcoming invite to come and to experience live theatre and live music, any live performances, once again or for the first time,” Goudie said.
Beyond this show, Goudie said there are rentals and shows being booked almost daily at this point and encourages those interested to stay in the loop on upcoming events.
As per provincial policy, proof of vaccination is required for attendees at any FGT shows and other public health protocols will be in effect for all events.
Tickets are available at the box office, by phone at 519-787-1981 or online.
