Not many performers are as comfortable performing in front of children as they are in front of “the big kids”, but award-winning singer, songwriter, actor, and storyteller Rick Scott is equally at home whether the average age of his audience is six or 60. On Sunday, April 12 Scott brings his unique talent to Ashcroft, where he’ll be performing a “big kids” concert at St. Alban’s Hall.
Scott, who has been performing for more than 40 years, first rose to prominence as a singer and dulcimer player in the legendary folk groups Pied Pumkin and Pied Pear. He turned to acting in the 1980s, appearing in stage productions such as Barnum (for which he learned to tightrope walk), Reflections on Crooked Walking, and Angry Housewives. His Rick Scott Band toured Canada and won awards for Best Independent Club Act and Independent Album of the Year at the Tribute to West Coast Music.
In 1990 Scott turned his attention to younger audiences, and has since released seven albums for children, including the award-winning The Great Gazzoon, described as “a folk tale told by a folkie”. All his concerts combine music and laughter in a lively style that invites and welcomes audience participation. His acting and storytelling abilities allow him to combine wacky humour and poignant human commentary in a way that has earned him a devoted following from four generations of audience members in nine countries.
The Victoria Folk Club called Scott’s show “incredible,” adding that he has “a wonderful stage presence and a magical way of connecting with the audience.” CHLY Radio in Nanaimo said that “Rick Scott will have you smiling like a child with his engaging big folks repertoire. What lucky adults to be growing younger to the heartfelt stories and songs of this ageless elder/man/boy,” while CBC Radio’s Jurgen Gothe said “Rick’s music . . . is delightful, educational, accessible, and innovative. It’s funny, clever, and warm. It’s not only important to Canadian music - it’s essential.”
The Winding Rivers Arts and Performance Society is proud to being Rick Scott and his engaging big folks repertoire to Ashcroft, with a concert on April 12 at 3pm at St. Alban’s Hall on Brink Street. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Ashcroft Bakery, UniTea, Nature’s Gifts, and the Cariboo Jade Shop (prices higher at the door; refreshments available by donation).
Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to see a great Canadian performer as he brings his magic to town!
Barbara Roden