Shadows and Light

What a fantastic ending to the season!

When it was announced that Lennie Gallant would be playing in Margaretsville – and for two nights, we were asked the question “How does the Evergreen Theatre attract so many high profile performers?” Perhaps the question is best answered by Lennie and many others in comments during their performances: “You are very lucky to have such a special venue here”. We certainly felt that way that first blustery, snowy night for those of us who attended Lennie’s first of two sold out concerts – a very exciting finale for 2007 season. View the gallery of images here or read on

Singer songwriter Lennie Gallant is a nominee and winner of a host of music awards from Junos to ECMAs and has been inducted into the Order of Canada for his contribution to Canadian culture. This impressive list of achievements is easily understood during a live show by this seasoned performer. A PEI native whose roots are deeply embedded in both French and English cultures, he moved easily in his performance between the two languages in song and narrative. We were treated to many of the tracks from his seventh and latest album “When We Get There” as well as his earlier records.

Margaretsville is situated on the Bay of Fundy and “The Pull of the Fundy Tide” and “Peter’s Dream” about the crisis in the fishing industry in the Maritimes had an added poignancy for the audience, while the track “I Want to Save the World for You”, written for his young daughter, Amélie, was a passionate cry of hope and fear that is shared by all parents in this world today. Many other songs had the audience clapping in time and becoming the ‘horn’ section when needed, as well as singing a single chorus line in French, much to everyone’s delight. A particular favourite of mine that he sang that night is the French/English song “Destination” sung to the haunting rhythm of the bodhran, mimicking the sound of a Canadian train crossing our vast country. Beautiful, Lennie. Thank you so much for two magical evenings. We all hope that you will return to the Evergreen Theatre soon.

Lennie was accompanied by Brad Davidge on guitar and backing vocals.

View the gallery of images here. This gallery features a track from his latest CD.

Ellie