Cathy Dobson
Dave Chaulk jokes that rehearsals for this year’s Rock n’ Roll Christmas have taken four months, “but really it’s been about 30 years.”
Many local musicians in the show have been performing for decades, he explains. “I just can’t believe the talent.”
This year’s Rock n’ Roll Christmas on Dec. 18 and 19 at the Imperial Theatre follows last year’s inaugural show, which played one sold-out night.
The two evening event will feature many of the same faces and some of the same tunes.
“There are commonalities because we listened to the feedback from last year and the songs that people told me are their favourites,” said Chaulk, a technical specialist at Enbridge who has played with several local bands over the years.
Standards like Jingle Bells, O Holy Night and Hark the Herald Angels Sing, will return with a number of the same singers. But there are also new songs and fresh faces.
Chaulk has assembled his 10-member band and adapted a succession of Christmas carols to rock music. The concert is hosted by Masters of Ceremonies Dave Burrows and Sarah Woodley, and interspersed with short theatrical bits.
“It was an idea I had for a lot of years. I thought it would be absolutely cool to get all my favourite musicians together to do a show,” said Chaulk. “And I love Christmas songs so that’s how this came together.”
The band is joined by a rotation of singers from local bands including Doug Stewart with CD/DC and Rob Sharpe with Lit’l Chicago.
“For me the highlight is when my wife, Denise, sings Holy Night. It’s an emotional song,” Chaulk said.
Non-perishable food items will be collected at the door for the Inn of the Good Shepherd.
Fittingly, the 1980s song “Feed the World” will close the show.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Stoke’s Bay Rock n’ Roll Christmas Show
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 18, and Saturday, Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Imperial Theatre
TICKETS: $32.50 adults, $27.50 seniors and under 12. Available at the box office, 168 Christina St. N., www.imperialtheatre.net or call 519-344-7469.
The Arts Journal features stories that reflect the cultural fabric of our community. If you have an idea, contact Cathy Dobson at 226-932-0985 or [email protected].