Arts Orillia’s Orillia Jazz Festival is coming up October 16-18, bringing three days of unforgettable performances featuring up-and-coming and award-winning musicians to this part of Ontario.
With an eclectic range of shows, this year’s festival offers something for jazz afficionados and those who are curious about jazz, as well.
Opening Night: October 16
The festival starts off at 7 p.m. at the Orillia Opera House. The second act on Friday night will feature incredible music from Artist-In-Residence, jazz musician James Brown, who is appearing with The Art of Anthem Ensemble, featuring Clark Johnston and Hannah Barstow. This inaugural Jazz and Jazz Adjacent Artist-In-Residency program is a partnership with the Canadian Music Centre.
The night begins with a set featuring talented local youth who have been mentored by AO’s Assistant Producer, Alondra Vega, and Disco RandB band The Free Label members, Jacon Thompson and Cole Mendez. It will be incredible to see and hear these up-and-coming young musicians and what they have accomplished.
The night doesn’t end when this show does!
Stick around for the “Neo Noir” after party, featuring Nathanial Robertson and an open mic jam, also at the Orillia Opera House. Entry to the after party is free with your 7 p.m. show ticket, or you can join in for just the party at 9 p.m. for $10 cash at the door.
A five-time JUNO Award Winning Night: October 17
Saturday night brings one of this year’s festival’s biggest draws.
Head back to the Orillia Opera House at 7 p.m. for a performance by five-time JUNO Award winner Jane Bunnett and her band, Maqueque.
This powerhouse all-female Cuban ensemble brings together intricate Afro-Cuban rhythms and contemporary jazz for a performance full of energy, movement and incredible musical creativity. This one will have you dancing in your seat from the first notes with the help of special guest, Cuban Dancer Melissa Noventa.
Sunday Morning Wrap Up: October 18
The festival ends on Sunday morning with the return of the Sunday Jazz Service, beginning at 10 a.m. at St. Paul’s Centre.
Featuring Orillia’s own Jacob Thompson and Cole Mendez of The Free Label, this special performance offers a relaxed, musical, and meaningful way to close out the weekend with wonderfully talented local musicians, coming home to participate in this year’s Jazz Festival. Admission is by donation.
The Orillia Jazz Festival is a cultural icon of an event in Orillia…don’t miss it! Get your tickets now at www.ArtsOrillia.ca.