1. Changes to The Rogue Reload Season
We were crestfallen to hear the news that the latest Covid variant is spreading like wildfire. While BC is not imposing restrictions on mid-size indoor gatherings and seated concerts like ours, we are committed to preserving the safety of our audience, our volunteers, staff, and performers. We most definitely see music as an "essential service", which has helped us all to get through the pandemic so far, but we made the difficult and heart-rending decision not to go ahead with our live concerts this weekend. We hope that you understand our dilemma - and our choice.
2. Dalannah Gail Bowen concert rescheduled
Dalannah Gail Bowen had put together a superb band for Saturday's show, led by Michael Creber on piano, anchored by the brilliant rhythm section of Miles Hill on bass and Chris Nordquist on drums, with Olaf De Shield on guitars and David Say on saxophones. We were looking forward to hearing this amazing woman sing and speak her truth. We will most definitely reschedule this show in Black History Month (February 2022) - all being well. If you purchased a ticket we will honour that at the February show, or you may request a refund or a concert credit. Keep an eye on our website for all the latest concert news.
3. Van Django's Cool Yule, Sunday December 19th 8pm, streamed live for a mere $10!
Van Django were all set to present their 9th annual Cool Yule celebration of Christmas songs in gypsy jazz style, led by the wonderful chanteuse L J Mounteney, on Sunday. Again, with great reluctance, we decided - along with the band - not to hold this show before a live audience at the Mel Lehan Hall at St. James. The live music experience is vital, but we would be devastated if anyone were to contract this vile disease at one of our shows. Being a concert so strongly tied to the season we couldn't move it to another month, but our friends and live streaming partners at Hubcast Media came to the rescue! Their studio in Port Kells was used as a set for a concert of Christmas Music last night, and it looks extremely festive with a roaring fire in a stone fire place, a brightly lit tree, and snow on the windows. They offered us the opportunity to present the band live from their studio at 8pm this Sunday. It will look - and sound - amazing!
We hope you will switch your live concert tickets to the live stream, and we will give you a concert credit for the price difference. Many of you have already chosen to purchase a live stream ticket, and we are very grateful for your support! We hope that many more of you will buy a stream ticket for $10 and tune in to enjoy this uniquely festive treat! When you do we will send you the link information on Sunday afternoon.
We have already incurred considerable costs on this weekend's concerts, but we would love to round out our 2021 season with a big show of support from our members. Thank you!
4. Greater Vancouver Food Bank
We had planned to collect non-perishable items for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank at this weekend's shows. Instead, we ask that you consider making a donation on their secure website They actually prefer donations of money, and can obtain more food and supplies with their ability to make bulk purchases of vital goods for those who depend on them so desperately - especially on these long, cold winter nights.
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