Rita MacNeil to headline Harmony Bazaar

By Kathy Johnson

THE COAST GUARD

NovaNewsNow.com

Rita MacNeil is headlining the award-winning lineup for Lockeport’s Harmony Bazaar this summer.

The three-day festival will get underway on July 24, with female musical acts on stage at the marquee and the Seacaps stage all weekend.

Also headlining the musical bill are Melanie Doane, Madison Violet, Irish Mythen, Christina Martin and others yet to be announced. “We are all extremely excited to have such an incredible line up for this year’s festival,” said festival producer Errin Williams-Spidle. “It will be an excellent opportunity for performers of all skill levels, both local and from abroad to network and learn from each other’s experiences.”

In addition to musical performances the three-day celebration of women in song also boasts a song writers’ circle hosted by Christine Crawford, a workshop by Madison Violet that chronicles their travels and offers advice to Canadians wanting to tour internationally, and a showcase by Melanie Doane, where she will discuss the impact motherhood has on her established career in music and song writing, just to name a few.

Shelburne musician and producer Tim Feswick will also be on hand to lend his expertise, as will SOCAN representative Tim Hardy, who will offer information on the protection of original musical works.

In addition Mickey Quase from the Department of Tourism and Culture will be present to offer information on provincial programming that may be accessed by musicians for a number of projects.

Returning from Harmony Bazaar 2008 are the industry dinner, youth stage, developing stage and “open mic”.

Harmony Bazaar grew from the projects of the Shelburne County Women’s Fishnet. Since its’ inception in 2006, Harmony Bazaar has been growing both in scope and popularity, attracting festival-goers from southwestern Nova Scotia and the Metro area. “We’re anticipating a lot more people this year,” said Williams-Spidle.

Until March 31st tickets are discounted to provide the opportunity for locals to take advantage of the opportunity to watch internationally recognized Atlantic Canadian talent. Tickets are available at The Whirligig and Gosbee’s Sporting Goods Ltd. in Shelburne, The Town Market Ltd. and Atlantic Waves in Lockeport, and at www.ticketweb.com. Volunteer positions are available for people where the price of the ticket would make it difficult for them to attend.

For more information regarding the festival, sponsorship opportunities, or for volunteer opportunities, contact (902) 656-2565.