It all started with Kera McHugh, formerly of the Wild Bistro in Gibsons, and Amy Sharp, from the Manzanita Café in Powell River, laughing together over a comical rockabilly song during a late night Internet chat session. They decided it would be fun to get together with a band or two who enjoyed that style of entertaining and put on a real "wang dang doodle," as Sharp describes it, on April Fool's Day.
The Fool Hardy Party, to take place at the Roberts Creek Hall on April 1 and Powell River on April 2, was born. The blues and roots sound of Luke Guthrie was chosen to add to the mix. One of the Manzanita's regular customers, Slim Milkie, is a singer songwriter in the new western style and he rides tall in the saddle. He was the rockabilly choice for danceable country bop.
The Colorifics headline the bill. The band is Bernard Boulanger, guitars, vocals and song-writing, John Rule on drums,percussion and vocals, Eric Napier on bass and vocals and Melissa Bandura on vocals and violin. Good singers are what makes the Colorifics, said Boulanger, and, of course, variety. The group is currently delving into '20s swing, some Afro-Cuban, cabaretand country, and they are currently making a new recording at Strait Studios in Gibsons.
"Something I like to do is to explore new genres through song-writing and mix them up a bit - not too much though, don't want beige-ification," said Boulanger.
What's the foolish party all about - well, silly activities, mostly. You might be approached by someone dressed as a court jester, and if you are, feel free to laugh, as this evening is for fun. The party will also introduce Mamajuana Rum to the Coast in a tasting from 7 to 8 p.m.It's a Dominican Republic special drink made of honey, herbs and red wine.
A portion of the proceeds from the event go to the Coast Cultural Alliance, and this event comes to Roberts Creek courtesy of Voice on the Coast, an advocate for the younger generation on the Sunshine Coast. Entertainment chair Dave Hallstead wants to help promote arts and culture and hopes that the organization will sponsor at least one such event a month.
Tickets are available at http://foolhardygibsons.eventbrite.com, Hallmark Cards in Gibsons, MELO-Mania in Roberts Creek and the Sechelt Visitor Centre at $18 in advance or $23 at the door.
