A group of Elora/Guelph/Kitchener performers have joined together to present 5000 Miles: a benefit concert for Syrian refugees.
Burlington impresario and artists manager Robert Missen put the call out to all of his Facebook friends when the tragic circumstances in eastern Europe came to a head.
He wondered if they would be interested in participating in a special concert to provide financial support to the cause. The reaction was swift and decisive.
Missen and his local colleagues, Peter Skoggard from Elora, and Brenda Lewis and Barbara Anderson-Huget from Guelph, put the call out to Elora churches.
The response from Knox Presbyterian was instantaneous. The church will provide the use of the sanctuary for the concert, and will support the presentation of the event from marketing and logistical perspectives.
Musicians from all genres – classical, jazz, folk, blues, musical theatre – will come together at 7:30pm Nov. 28.
They will be joined by a number of theatrical and dance artists. All of the artists performing are donating their time.
At press time the performers include: Matt Brubeck; James Gordon; David Earle; Tony McManus; Heather Taves; Willem Moolembeck; Brenda Lewis and John Zadro; Ben Grossman; Colin Fox; Marion Samuel-Stevens; Rein Rutnik and Rob Morris; Loretta Bailey; Deborah Overes; Anna Ronai; Dylan Paycak and Daley O’Keefe; Jerry Prager; and Morvern McNie.
All proceeds will be directed towards the Presbyterian Refugee Fund and the national church will match funds raised.
5,000 Miles is one of several similar benefits being held across southern Ontario in November. The first concert was held at Rosedale United Church on Nov. 8, and was a huge success.
Tickets are $20 and are available at The Bookshelf in Guelph, Roxanne’s in Fergus, The Shepherd’s Pub in Elora and at the door. Tickets for children eight to 18 will be available at the door for $10. Children under eight are free.
Patrons are also encouraged to donate generously at the concert. Tax receipts will be issued for donations above $20.
Concert details
When: Nov. 28 at 7:30pm at Knox presbyterian Church 51 Church Street, Elora.
Price: $20; $10 for children eight to 18; children under eight are free.
