Performing Arts Lakefield hosted their last concert at the Lakefield College School before moving locations to the Lakefield United Church in the heart of the village.
Before The Fretless took the stage on Sunday afternoon, Performing Arts Lakefield (PAL) Chair, Bill Robb took to the mic to address the audience.
Robb informed the audience that due to contract changes, PAL will no longer be able to host their concerts at Lakefield College School (LCS) but instead will be moving their concerts to Lakefield United Church.
He told the Herald after the concert that PAL has been hosting their concerts almost exclusively at Lakefield College School since their formation in 1983. Some of LCS faculty have even served on their board of directors many times over their 41 seasons.
PAL and LCS have had a good relationship and partnership over the years with PAL even purchasing a Yamaha Grand Piano for the Bryan Jones Theatre at LCS.
Robb said, “Covid 19 interrupted the on-going partnership. Recently circumstances have changed at Lakefield College School. At this point we realized that we can no longer use the LCS facility beyond our present contract. We looked at alternate facilities in Lakefield and realized the most feasible place was the Lakefield United Church.”
Robb said that PAL is excited about the new venue and have been welcomed whole heartedly by Rev. Kerrie Perry, their board and staff of the United Church
The United Church also has a new sound system, new lighting and a new grand piano which Rob said will be “wonderful to have in this new, safer, larger and welcoming facility.”
When asked about if there would parking concerns for the new location, he responded, “We were initially concerned about patron parking, but, have come to realize that the regular church services and the opera, Christmas Carol Services and other concerts led by Musical Director Vince Abrahamse have had adequate parking.”
The last performance of this PAL season will be hosted at the United Church, located at 47 Regent St, Lakefield on June 9.
“The PAL Board of Directors is proud to enter into a new era. PAL has already signed full season contracts with a full roster for the 2024-25 season. Our 42nd season of providing musical, theatrical, comedic, and magical acts will continue.”
