KAGAWONG—It is one of the many Manitoulin Island Christmas traditions that should have that ‘can’t miss’ label on them.
The annual Kagawong Christmas concert was held recently in front of a packed crowd at the Park Centre. Not only does the night prove to be a great night for getting into the Christmas spirit, laughter and comedic skits, and hearing great music, those in attendance always come together to help support those in need in the area. Donations of food items and money donated by those who attend go to Manitoulin Family Resources (MFR) to help area families in need this Christmas.
“We would like to welcome all of you to our annual Kagawong Community Christmas Concert,” stated Jill Ferguson who, along with Mike Coomes, were masters of ceremonies for the evening, introducing each performer and telling many jokes during the evening-between performances.
The Christmas Elf herself, also known as Mary Buie, brought the crowd to life early as she read a “Merry Christmas” story, and everyone in attendance had a role to play and shout out.
Young Daphne Carr held the crowd spellbound as she played a couple of songs on the piano, which had the appreciative crowd clapping loudly. She was not only a first time performer but the youngest performer ever to take part in the concert.
Mike Coomes read a Christmas turkey limerick, followed by the very talented Kagawong Folk Root Collective playing a couple of traditional Christmas carols, and followed up with more songs later in the show that everyone appreciated.
Then it was time for everyone to get on their feet and clap, ski in their spots and more as the Superman and Superwoman duo of Mike Coomes and Suzy DeKuyper took to the stage.
Another talented first time musical performer at the concerts celebration was Lacy Fownes, who also drew loud applause with her performance of the song ‘Hallelujah.’
Singer-guitarist Doug Alkenbrack accompanied by Nora Bath Haring sang two songs, and read a hilarious poem about the government, titled ‘taxed.’
The Manitoulin Secondary School Travelling Players then took to the stage, with several great Christmas songs, one with Chris Theijsmeijer playing the role of a snowman (which was hilarious and something you would have to see to believe!).
And as touching a scene as you are going to see during this Christmas season then took place: Jacquie Gordon sat and encouraged all the children in the audience to sit around her as she read two Christmas stories, “The Animals of Christmas Eve” (similar to the 12 Days of Christmas) and “The Night Before Christmas.” Going back to her days as a teacher, Ms. Gordon has been reading Christmas stories to children on an annual basis for over 60 years.
Everyone took part in singing several Christmas songs, including ‘Jingle Bell Rock,’ ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,’ and ‘Here Comes Santa Claus,’ just prior to an appearance by Santa Claus himself. The big man took time ut from his busy schedule to visit the children at the concert.
A total of $375 in donations were made during the night, with plenty of food stuff donated as well, all going to the Manitoulin Family Resources.
