The annual Concerts in the Park series is set to send a wave of musical flavour over Transfer Beach this summer.
Starting July 3, there will be weekly concerts at the amphitheater, where residents can bring their families to enjoy a wide range of genres, including folk, rock and roll, swing and big band.
According to Valerie Duckworth, concert co-ordinator, the scenic backdrop of the harbour, grassy lawn and summer atmosphere have been drawing hundreds of spectators to the event every year.
“Depending on the band and the weather, we can have crowds of upwards of 400 people,” she said.
“It’s a beautiful venue. Lots of families bring their lawn chairs and a picnic supper.”
Admission is by donation, collected by volunteers at half-time. The funds are put towards programs at the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association.
“We run programs from age 0 to seniors,” Duckworth said. “We have programs like ‘Born Healthy’, we have youth programs, and it goes on and on.”
Concerts in the Park, now in its 12th year, is possible due to the financial support of local businesses who pay for the performers. This year’s line-up includes a variety of musicians from central and north Vancouver Island, including the Nanaimo Concert Band, Cynthia Davis, and Ryan McMahon and the Company Damn.
The concerts run every Sunday from July 3 to August 28 from 6 to 8 p.m., weather permitting.
For more information, visit www.lrca.bc.ca/concerts.asp and be sure to read The Chronicle for weekly biographies on upcoming performers.