We all know kids won’t do much on demand, especially if you ask them to dance. But that wasn’t a problem when Grizzly Bear Shakedown took the stage at artsPlace during a Christmas-themed concert in December 2018.
The musical collaboration featured Andrew Cotter, from local folk-rock favourites Elk Run & Riot, and Andrei Dandridge-Evancio, who’s played songs for youth at daycares and schools throughout the Bow Valley. Both musicians know from experience how to get kids moving and this show even featured a dedicated dancing space just for kids, so they could boogie sans parents.
The talented duo says they were thrilled to team up with artsPlace because it was a collaborative experience right from the beginning. “With artsPlace it’s not like, ‘we’ll provide a venue and you’re on your own,’” says Andrew, who’s played at artsPlace before as a solo act and with Elk Run & Riot. “They help with all the logistical and organizational stuff and just let the performer concentrate on the show.”
After playing shows throughout Canmore, Banff and surrounding towns for years, Andrew says it was a huge boost for local acts when artsPlace opened up, and that it filled a gap in the live music scene. “Everyone who comes there, comes for the show,” he says. “It’s not like they’re out for dinner or beers and a band shows up – when people see a live band at artsPlace, they’re coming for the music.”
As for Andrei, an accomplished music teacher and music therapy specialist, he’s organized school piano recitals at artsPlace for the last few years, and brings a high level of musicianship to every performance. “It’s an amazing venue to play,” he says. “The theatre setting elevates the sound and the mood, and really allows you to create a positive experience.”
Both Andrew and Andrei are musical fixtures in the Bow Valley community, and will continue to thrive in its small-town, big-culture vibe. As for Grizzly Bear Shakedown, it was a highly successful show that will likely come to artsPlace again. “It’s such a great community gathering space,” says Andrei. “I have a feeling it was the highest popcorn sales artsPlace ever had,” adds Andrew with a laugh.
“We have a fundamental belief at McElhanney that the Arts are a cornerstone of community and we are very proud to be a sponsor of artsPlace. Live music is an art form that speaks to all people. The diverse mix of music that artsPlace brings to Canmore has benefitted and strengthened our community as a whole.” – Ron Sadesky, McElhanney
