Elliot Lake's Got Talent ... and HOW!!!

Elliot Lake's Got Talent ... and HOW!!! 

It's one of those things that we always meant to do, but never got around to it. The Coffee House at the CC, in Elliot Lake, is one of those 'things'. We were either out of town, or found that the tickets were completely sold out when we were here. That is, until the generosity of Lois Jones of 'Women in Song' made itself known to us. 

Women in Song (Lois is in the middle).

Lois had been a Facebook friend until she bumped into us at the Civic Centre at the end of May. She joyfully introduced herself to us and told us she was performing that evening. After sharing our regrets that we had been unsuccessful in getting tickets, she kindly gave us two spare tickets that had become available due to cancellations. Boy - were we thankful for her - it was a great evening - and we're now hooked!

On Friday night, we were thoroughly entertained for over two hours for the amazing cost of just $5.00 per person - and were in awe of the sheer talent from some of our local performers. 

The room is nicely set up, providing a welcoming ambience. 

Each table has its own program, flowers, and candle.

To darken the room from the glaring sunshine, there are pictures of famous performers that adorn the windows. 

Ryan, from Eastlink TV, was covering the evening. 

Before the performances begin, the venue gradually fills up and you get that feeling of 'family' gathering together. 

Cheerfully emceeing the whole event, Murray Finn shared some stories with the gathered audience - some of them very funny, others very moving. We had met Murray when we first moved to Elliot Lake, three years ago. He was looking after the Art Gallery when we visited it for the first time, and made us feel very welcome. 

Murray Finn

First on the program was Roger Legacy, who sang with his guitar for the first half-hour. We were treated to covers of Gilbert O'Sullivan, Simon & Garfunkel, and Gordon Lightfoot - as well as a hauntingly beautiful original called, 'Through an Old Man's Tears'. A very talented man whose guitar playing was mesmerizing. 

Roger Legacy

Victoria Thompson was up next. Her amazing voice held our rapt attention with songs from Cam and Streisand, to mention just two. The audience joined in with 'Leaving on a Jet Plane', but it was her interpretation of 'Memory' from the musical, 'Cats', that made the hairs on my arms stand up! I also loved her performance of the Welsh National Anthem, which she sang a capella in Welsh. I wish I had recorded it because it was truly beautiful. Victoria was accompanied on piano by Ponto Paparo who, himself, was a guest performer in May. 

Victoria Thompson

Ponto Paparo - performing in May

'Memory' from 'Cats'.

Last, but not least, our friend, Amber Piette, performed with her partner, Justin Villeneuve. They are both pursuing solo careers, but come together as the 'Creek Stones' - producing harmonies that are reminiscent of the Everly Brothers. (They actually sung one of the Brothers' songs, 'Down in the Willow Garden, which was alluring).  From songs by 'Of Monsters and Men' to several originals, they were captivating - both with their stage presence, and with the integrity of their personalities. 

The Creek Stones

While all this was going on, a talented young artist sat quietly at the back and produced amazing drawings that were inspired by what she saw and heard during the evening. Jade Farquhar, a principle artist who specializes in tattoo designs, was introduced at the beginning of the evening and I managed to get her permission to show one of her creations in this blog. 

Jade Farquhar

Jade's interpretation during Roger Legacy's performance of  'Georgia on my Mind'.

All of this is made possible by the hard work of Kate Matuszewski, who is well-known in Elliot Lake for devoting so much of her time to organizing entertainment in town. 

Kate Matuszewski

Our friend, Jane MacDonald, of Creme de Chantilly, provided the catering with her delicious choice of cake and cream. (Last month, it was a tasty pie!) She, and her staff, served with smiles that we have come to expect whenever we frequent her establishment. 

Coffee House at the CC (Civic Centre) may be enjoyed every month through the year (except summer), but be sure to get your tickets early to avoid disappointment. 

Does Elliot Lake have talent? You bet... and then some!

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