A unique collaboration between United Way, Shivering Songs, and Theatre New Brunswick.
“Songs of the City is a way of showing the community, ‘here is what your donation to the United Way has helped achieve’,” said Jeff Richardson, Executive Director of the Fredericton United Way.
The idea was first conceived and performed by Equity Showcase Theatre in Toronto last year as a way to recognise the United Way’s support of the community. Richardson was invited to attend the original show and thought that idea would be a great fit for Shivering Songs.
“A project like this requires a lot of support and planning,” he said. “I thought it would be a good fit for Zach [Atkinson], Graeme [Walker] and Shivering Songs, and who better to shape someone’s personal story than Tania Breen. She helped create the monologue section of the show and has helped craft the overall performance.
“We’re actually only the second United Way in Canada to present a performance of this nature,” said Richardson. “It’s an incredible opportunity to thank the community for its support of United Way, and to demonstrate how our community comes together to support our neighbours.”
This Thursday at the Fredericton Playhouse, Songs of the City will see a number of Shivering Songs’ performers interpret true stories of tragedy, resilience and success, as lived by members of our community. A number of individuals, all of whom have benefited through the support of United Way funded programs, have shared their stories with the artists involved to create a wonderful salute to the community, a celebration of personal triumph and a great way to kick off this year’s festival.
“We have four stories that are being shaped,” said Richardson. “They will reflect stories by people who have been impacted by Chrysalis House, the John Howard Society, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and transition housing. “
This special performance will feature original compositions from Keith Hallett, Andrew Sisk, Michael Feuerstack and Jessica Rhaye, backed by festival founders The Olympic Symphonium.
Songs of the City has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of The Forever Fund – the United Way Endowment Fund, and Scotiabank.
Songs of the City | Thursday, January 21, 2016 | 7:30pm | The Fredericton Playhouse | FREE
For full festival information, please visit www.shiveringsongs.com
