On Jan. 21, 2013, violinist Calvin Dyck and pianist Betty Suderman were guests of Burns Lake for the fourth performance of the Lakes District Arts Council (LDAC) 2012/13 performing arts season.
Dyck wore many hats that evening, literally and figuratively. His violin - the Golden Violin - was made in 1807. Dyck played a musical taste of the different styles of violin music that have evolved since this particular violin’s creation. The rack of jackets and hats that he kept on stage were cycled through as he provided a living music-history class, with every era represented by a change of jacket, chapeau and music style.
It was standing room only for the performance, which is in keeping with past performances this season organized by the LDAC.
“The audience response from our community is consistently good in terms of numbers, and very good in enthusiasm and support,” said LDAC president John Barth.
It’s not only season ticket holders and single-event ticket purchases that make it possible for the shows to keep coming through. Burns Lake merchants are the backbone of arts in the Lakes District.
“We could not offer the number and variety of performers that we do, nor could we keep our ticket prices affordable for families, young people and seniors, without the outstanding financial and in-kind support of the local business community,” said Barth.
The Lakes District has welcomed visiting performers graciously, even to the point of billeting young members of the B.C. Boy’s Choir during their pre-Christmas performance.
“Performers often comment on how large, warm, responsive and appreciative Lakes District audiences are,” said Barth. “They also comment on how many young people and families we have in the audience.”
Planning for the 2013 − 14 season is well underway with five performers tentatively booked. Putting together the roster of high-calibre performances takes a lot of volunteer work, and new members are always welcome.
The annual general meeting of the LDAC will take place on Feb. 20, 2013, at 6 p.m. in the Burns Lake Library.