The Winding Rivers Arts and Performance Society held its AGM on June 24. A barbecue potluck was followed by an overview of the months just passed, a look at what’s ahead, and the election of officers and directors.
The dessert concert series has ended for the year, but Music in the Park is underway for the summer at the Heritage Park in Ashcroft, with an exciting line-up of entertainers scheduled for July and August. Local artists will open for many of the visiting performers, and concessions have been arranged for all the concerts. There are plans for more entertainment events throughout the fall and winter, with performers and dates now being finalized.
The WRAPS-produced play Switching Principals was an enormous success this past spring, with more than 40 volunteers on- and off-stage enabling the show to go on. Another production is planned for fall 2014, and it’s hoped that 2015 will see a major musical theatre production.
The group is pleased to be assisting with the 2nd Annual Wellness Festival, taking place in Ashcroft July 19–20. It was also able to assist the Desert Bells Handbell Choir in obtaining a grant to assist that organization in its goals.
The second Kids Arts Camp (Aug. 18–22) will provide students aged 4 to 17 with an opportunity to try their hand at painting, singing, drumming, and acting. One of WRAPS’ mandates is to make art accessible to young people in our communities, and there is tremendous enthusiasm for the Camp, which promises to be huge fun. For information contact Nancy Duchaine at (250) 453-0036.
The group was saddened by the departure of three long-time officers and directors—Nadine Davenport, Andrea Bona, and Jo-Anne Portman—who decided to take some much-needed time off. Nadine and Andrea have been hugely supportive of the arts in our area—particularly music—and will continue to be involved in WRAPS activities, but in a more low-key manner. Jo-Anne, meanwhile, will continue to be active in organizing the third annual Plein Air Paint Out, scheduled for Sept. 16–18.
Nancy Duchaine was elected treasurer, to replace Andrea Bona, while Barbara Roden and Jessica Clement will continue as president and vice-president respectively. Martina Baier stepped down as secretary, and John Kidder has accepted the position on a temporary basis until a permanent replacement can be found.
Newcomer David Dumont was welcomed as a director, joining Roden, Clement, Duchaine, and Kidder. The other directors are Martina Baier, Jim Duncan, Susan McLean, Tim Roden, Jan Schmitz, and Connie Walkem.
To find out more about WRAPS and its upcoming events, please visit the website at www.windingriversarts.ca.
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