Music in the Forest has pulled the plug on at least the next two performances slated for the community facility at Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park and the stage at Cold Lake Provincial Park.
Organizers of the local Music in the Forest program — a joint effort with Alberta Park and Calgary-based independent artist promoter Side-door Promotions — had already annouced the cancellation of their March 19 show featuring Calgary artist Von Beiker, and the April 22 shows with musical group Sweet Santa Fe. Today, Alberta Parks officials announced they are cancelling the May 21 show as well. That show was to feature Andrew Judah.
Jaclyn Denman the regional development officer for Alberta Parks says there are shows still booked for June and beyond — but whether they will continue is not a certainty. She calls the scheduling of any activities in the provincial parks system right now a bit of a "moving target" due to the Coronavirus precautions.
"I do have artists lined up for Cold Lake & Sir Winston Churchill for end of June, and every second weekend for foiur events through the summer. I am awaiting to hear if those will be OK to continue," she told the Lac La Biche POST, adding that more information on future shows will be available in the coming weeks.“It’s unfortunate that we’ve had to cancel the upcoming shows... however all performers are in agreement that it is in everyone’s best interest.”
Anyone who purchased tickets for the upcoming shows can contact Sidedoor, as they have temporarily adjusted their refund policy to allow ticket holders to request and receive a refund. The entertainment company is also working to create virtual performances available in the weeks ahead, giving music-lovers a chance to see independent artists online.
Parks open, but facilities off limites
Locally, Alberta Parks officials have also restricted vehicular access and the public use of any facilities within provincial parklands. In a statement released a week ago, provincial officials say that parks will remain open to pedestrian traffic — but the use of washrooms, picnic shelters and warm-up shelters is prohibited in all provincial and national parks and recreation areas.
For in-depth updates of COVID-19, regional stories and links to more informaiton, go to www.lakelandtoday.ca/coronavirus-covid-19-information
* With files from Rob McKinley / LLB POST
