PICTOU, N.S. — PICTOU, N.S. – The summer is a great time to get out, relax and enjoy the wonderful talent that the region has to offer.
The deCoste Performing Arts Centre in Pictou is featuring a variety of artists at their upcoming Musical Buddies Performance running for two nights, Aug. 13 and 14. The shows feature five talented individuals, including Buddy MacDonald from Cape Breton, The Putnam Family from Brookfield/Halifax and Mary Beth Carty from Antigonish.
Singer-songwriter Buddy MacDonald has been entertaining audiences for more than 45 years and will host the evening performances. His ability to tell stories through his songs, many about his native land of Cape Breton, has taken him throughout Canada, the United States, Germany, Scotland and the Scandinavian countries, performing as a solo act and in different combinations with many other celebrated musicians.
He’s a fixture at many of the Celtic Colours shows, generally hosting the late-night Festival Club. Buddy’s love of writing, singing and entertaining comes across to bridge the gap between performer and listener.
Inspired by Natalie McMaster, at the age of nine after attending one of her performances, Alycia Putnam began her musical journey playing fiddle at a young age and has mastered the instrument, going on to compose three solo albums. She’s travelled the globe performing live to thousands of festival and concert-goers. Her father, Robert, took up guitar around the time Alycia started learning fiddle and began learning the songs and joining her on tour.
Alycia’s mother Kelly, who’s looking forward to playing with the duo at the deCoste, was the first Celtic musical influence Alycia was exposed to as the bagpipes were Kelly’s go to instrument, having played with the Colchester Legion Pipes and Drum band. The high energy, family band dynamic occurs when the three combine their talents, blending traditional music with more modern influences.
Described as having a memorable voice and a passion for creating rootsy songs with romantic-gypsy-vibes on her guitar and accordion, Antigonish native Mary Beth Carty remains true to her Scottish, Irish, and Acadian roots performing traditional songs from the depths of Canadiana. Also a percussionist on musical bones, or clappers, there is no lack of variety in Mary Beth’s live show. On stage, she is a captivating and heartfelt performer.
Those wishing to attend have the option of contacting their nearest library branch in Pictou County to see if the Arts are for Everyone pass, which provides a free pair of tickets to the performance, may be available to borrow, usually within two weeks advance of the show.
Seating for these performances will be cabaret-style with general admittance. Doors open at 7 p.m., the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Weather permitting, there will be a pipes-and-drum performance on the deCoste deck.
Tickets are $25, or two for one for members. Anyone wishing to purchase in advance can contact the box office, at 99 Water Street in Pictou, Monday to Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 902-485-8848 ext. 1 or toll free at 1-800-353-5338, and online at decostecentre.ca.
Musical buddies shows spotlight Nova Scotia talent
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