A blending of words, movement and music, the Fort Langley Celebration of the Arts has a little mix of everything.
Now in its fourth year, the event runs over three days from September 18-20 at the Fort Langley Community Hall.
Offering poetry readings, dancing and concerts, it’s something near and dear to founder David James’ heart.
James, a retired biology professor from Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), grew up in Wales where poetry and music are an important part of everyday life.
“Wales is very much a culture of poetry and music and so on. And so, I’ve always had this as part of my life,” he said.
“We’re really excited about doing it and I love doing it.”
As a way to enrich the arts culture of Fort Langley, there are dozens of acts featured on this year’s roster.
The celebration kicks off on Friday evening at 7p.m. with performances by talented KPU music student Andrea Pedro, the fiery Tam O’Shanter Scottish dancers, Langley Community Music School student Liam MacIntosh and bluegrass band Colin Goldie & Backspin, who are from Fort Langley.
Continuing on to Saturday, at 11 a.m. there will be a free children’s arts and crafts workshop hosted by the Langley Centennial Museum, followed by Lilli the Library Car at 1 p.m.
In the afternoon, a special poetry slam by Lindi Nolte, which James says is very moving and emotional.
“I was skeptical about slam poetry,” he admitted.
“When I attended this event [last year] it was one of the most moving things I have ever been to. People were actually crying in the audience, it was amazing.”
At 8 p.m. there will be dancing and drinking to the rhythm and blues of The Willie MacCalder Band.
And on the final day, Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m. there will be a guitar performance by Jon Washburn and Ed Henderson, and at 7 p.m. a switch to piano with Toronto jazz musician Amanda Tosoff and world-renowned pianist Marcel Bergmann.
Tickets are $10 for a single day, $20 for families and $15 for couples dancing.
For more, visit www.fortlangleycelebrationofthearts.com.