Concerts in the Park returned Aug. 10 with its first outdoor show in over two years after a previous edition in July had to be moved indoors due to weather and it did not disappoint. The clear blue skies, green grass seating and evening sun provided the perfect ambience at MacLean Park for four local musicians to share their talents with Thompsonites.
Darlene Dick, recreation co-ordinator for the City of Thompson, was excited about the live outdoor event and said afterwards that she was happy with the turnout.
“It was good to get back and gather and be able to enjoy the park and live music,” Dick said, although she admits it will take some time, post-COVID, to have things return completely back to normal as not just crowds but also musicians can be reluctant to resume their old ways.
As a result of pandemic restrictions, Dick explained that some bands or musical groups couldn’t get together and practise. Although those restrictions have ended, some haven’t played together enough yet to feel confident getting back on stage.
The opening act was Sarah Schroeder, a teacher by day, who ended her set with a moving song she wrote to raise awareness for mental health during the pandemic. Schroeder enjoyed her debut performance at Concerts in the Park, saying it “was amazing, felt really good and it was nice to see the crowd getting involved, a lot of people were dancing.”
Up next was local musical icon Tony Whalen, who not just sings but plays guitar, and his set list spanned everything from old country to new country to East Coast tunes to the Tragically Hip and even Neil Diamond. Whalen also included his own original songs, one of which he dedicated to his partner of more than 30 years, who was in the audience for the performance.
Prior to the finale, the small but enthusiastic crowd was treated to a spontaneous performance by the talented Mike Haggith, whose natural moxie onstage had some women in the crowd not just dancing but clamouring for more at the front of the stage when his set ended.
The evening concluded with the shocking talent of performer known more as the “sound guy” at so many events in town — Tracy “Smitty” Smith. His genre was old country and though he was very humble about his talent, the crowd seemed to love his choice of songs.
One of the spectators, Gilbert Wood, said he and his friends just happened to be walking near MacLean Park when they heard the music and stopped by to check it out. Wood said he enjoyed all the performances. “It’s a good day to be out and it’s good that there’s different types of singers.”
The next and final Concert in the Park for 2022 is set for Aug. 24 and all those who are interested need to do is just show up to enjoy some local musical talent. If the weather isn’t amenable for an outdoor show, the event will be held in the Thompson Regional Community Centre. Either way, the concert will kick off at 6 p.m.
