Westben Fundraiser June 21 at a secret garden

Westben Article for Community Press June 10, 2014

The Barn was electrified with Jesus Christ Superstar and the audience was on its feet dancing and clapping by the end. What a great way to start the Season! I am often asked how it all happens, how do you put on 32 concerts in one summer, how have you managed to still be here 15 years? Well, for sure, Westben has always had a strong vision, developed and supported by a wide range of community members. Community at Westben is certainly geographic with participants, volunteers and audience members from Trent Hills, and surrounding counties of Northumberland, Quinte, Hastings and Peterborough & the Kawarthas. Westben community also means the coming together of artists from across Canada, exploring new music and ensembles together. Westben has Members, Sponsors and government grants with ticket sales support the organization. However, an important piece of the organization is the Annual Fundraiser. The fundraising committee works tirelessly for a year planning and preparing for this annual event. This year the fundraiser has been moved from the end of the season to the June 21 and will be held at a secret location, a home, near Warkworth. (Of course the location is disclosed at time of ticket purchase). It will be a truly fun and unique afternoon. Enjoy a preview of the upcoming Westben season with musical entertainment in a fabulous garden setting. Stroll among the perennial borders or relax and enjoy the glorious vistas – there will be musical inspiration around every corner. Imagine listening to tenor Mark Dubois in a garden while over-looking the hills of Northumberland. Wander the gardens and experience Jazz near the pond, or a string quartet near the woods. In true Westben style there are sure to be some surprises along the way as well. Spectacular musical entertainment, delicious food, magnificent garden views and a Silent Auction – all in support of the Westben Arts Festival Theatre. Call for tickets 877 883 5777 or visit www.westben.ca. If you are looking forward to Phantom of the Opera this summer at Westben then come to the Fundraiser and here the Phantom in a unique and intimate setting. Remember he is the Angel of Music.