Past Riverdale Share Performers

Mike_Tanner

Your Host – Mike Tanner

Murray McLauchlan

Murray began writing and performing in his late teens and played major music festivals such as The Philadelphia Folk Festival and Mariposa, where he appeared alongside Jim Croce and John Prine. He played at clubs like The Riverboat in Toronto, The Bitter End in New York, The Main Point in Philadelphia, and the famous Earl of Old Town in Chicago. His ‘Child’s Song’ was made famous by American folk star Tom Rush. Thirty odd years later, Murray has eighteen albums to his credit and he’s won eleven JUNO awards, RPM “Big Country” awards and Toronto music awards. He’s also been a radio and television host, an author and was appointed to the order of Canada. His latest album “Human Writes”, received international acclaim and he continues to appear with the group Lunch At Allen’s.

Danny Marks

Danny Mark’s iconic rocker’s roots go back to the sixties as a founding member of Capitol Records’ group, Edward Bear. After a span as a journeyman session musician throughout the seventies, Danny settled in to the club scene establishing a cult following as a genre bender in music and humour.

A house band gig at Toronto’s famed Albert’s Hall led him to host his own nation-wide TV show, Stormy Monday. Through the eighties, Danny starred in CBC radio’s hit series the Hum Line. Danny Marks recorded two original music albums, Guitarchaeology and True, before paying tribute to Toronto’s R&B roots with Big Town Boy in 2005. Danny’s most recent CD albums are original blues music. “A Friend in the Blues” won best album of the year in Newfoundland and Germany! “Cities in Blue” is the soundtrack from his TV series of the same name currently shown on HiFI, Canada’s Music and Art Channel. Danny’s in his fifteenth year as the radio host of JAZZ.FM91’s Saturday night blues show, bluz.fm. www.dannym.com

Julian Taylor

Toronto music scene staple and musical chameleon Julian Taylor is used to shaking it up. With his songs being placed in such TV shows as Haven, Private Eyes, Kim’s Convenience and Elementary, his versatility as a songwriter is signature; one minute he’s playing at the Horseshoe backed by his 8-piece band spilling out electrified rhythm and blues glory, and the next he’s featured at a folk festival delivering a captivating solo singer-songwriter set.

As leader of the Julian Taylor Band he conjures soul music, blues, hard rock and thoughtful folky songs. His band’s most recent recording; the critically acclaimed Desert Star is a testament to this versatile sound, arguably the real roots of what could be called the Toronto Sound. It has the comfortability of an open mind, a wide palette and experienced and inspired musical talent.

Beautifully blended soulful blues, rhythmic R&B, modern rock riffs and rootsy folk make the Toronto based, Julian Taylor Band (JTB) experience something worth putting your busy life on hold for; even if it is just for a few moments.

www.juliantaylorband.com

Masini McDermott

Toronto native Masini McDermott is a vivacious singer, actress, and entrepreneur. She is a recent graduate of Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts and the Tourism and Leisure Program at George Brown College. Masini has had the opportunity to sing alongside Grammy- and Oscar-winner Jennifer Hudson. Masini produced three successful showcases entitled “One Night Only Live,” “One Night Only Live 2.0,” and “We Will Rise Together Benefit Concert” for the Islands of Tortola/Dominica/Anguilla. She was featured in three new works featured in the Toronto Fringe Festival – Summerland, The Fence, and True North Mixtape. Masini has performed alongside Spiderwebs No Doubt Tribute Band, The Wexford Gleeks, and many other Toronto-based artists. She was nominated for the Best Actress Award in a Live Theatre Performance at the 2017 Broadway World Toronto Regional Awards, and continues to sing internationally.

Micah Barnes

Before joining The Nylons and touring the world, Micah cut his teeth in the cabarets and jazz clubs of Toronto as a teenager. After launching his solo career, he recorded his #1international club hit “Welcome To My Head” and was named “an Indie artist to watch” by Rolling Stone Magazine. He was named best Jazz Act of 2014 at the Toronto Indie Awards for his single “New York Story” which shot to the top of Jazz charts in both Canada and the U.S. He is also a highly respected vocal coach. singersplayground.com

Tim Bovaconti

Tim Bovaconti has been a fixture on the Canadian music scene for years having backed up artists such as Ron Sexsmith,Kim Stockwood,Leonard Cohen,Kevin Hearn (B
arenaked Ladies),Ray Davies,Rodriguez and many more….he is currently guitarist/vocalist for Canadian icon Burton Cummings and is about to release his own new collection of songs “Fight Or Flight”. Photo credit:Andrew Hartl www.timbovaconti.com

Kim Stockwood

Kim Stockwood is an accomplished entertainer, performer, writer, and host. Her latest recording, Back to the Water, won the 2012 ECMA Award for Roots/Traditional Recording of the Year and coincided with a CMT special. She has also released two solo pop records, two records with trio Shaye and a solo Christmas recording, I Love Santa. She has performed on tour with Willie Nelson and on television in a four-part reality series with Shaye. She has an impressive musical track record with smash hits like “Jerk”, “12 Years Old”, and “Happy Baby”. Kim was the host of the Q-93 Morning Show in her hometown of St. John’s, Newfoundland and guest hosted Canada AM, CHUM FM morning show, Entertainment Tonight, EZ Rock and “Junos on George”. She has hosted Saturday Night at the Junos (twice), the CTV Junos Red Carpet, the Canadian Radio Music Awards, and the East Coast Music Awards.

Me & Her

Me (or is it her?) is Shelley Hamilton, a nouveau soul diva with Nova Scotian roots whose first foray into country music was creating three-part harmony groups in junior high to “sound sweet like Dolly.” Shelley has worked with Joni (yes, THAT Joni), and rocked the stage with Merry Clayton (but she ain’t one to name drop so you didn’t hear it from her!).

And Her (or is it me?) is Stella Panacci, who started playing drums at 12, won the Kiwanis Music Festival that year (and kicked all the boys’ asses) and grew up to become a nationally acclaimed songwriter and singer who’s played and shared stages with bandmates from Broken Social Scene, and Danko Jones and was recruited to fly to LA to write songs with Igor Khoroshev of the legendary band Yes.

And here they are together, thrilled to be lending their harmonies, hearts and talents to this years Riverdale Share. Look for their soon to be released album in 2018.

Mia Sheard

Mia Sheard is a Riverdale-based singer and psychotherapist. She has released 4 albums of her own material, and has been touring as a singer with Classic Albums Live for the past 10 years, She is thrilled to be performing with her brother John this year at the Riverdale Share.

John Sheard

John Sheard is a Toronto pianist, producer and composer. He has worked with: Art Garfunkel, Rita Macneil, Ian Tyson, Dan Hill, Rita Coolidge, Olivia Newton-John, Mary-Margaret O’Hara, Celine Dion, Willie P. Bennett, David Wilcox, The Guess Who, Buster Poindexter, Rough Trade and many others.
John was music director for Stuart Mclean’s Vinyl Cafe touring show from 1997- 2015

Nicola Adilman

Rising star Nicola Adilman was born and raised in Toronto and from a young age, she started her dance training at ‘For the Love of it’ Performing Arts Studio under director Michelle Carbery in the Beaches neighbourhood. Nicola graduated from Rosedale Heights School of the Arts in Riverdale, and is a recent graduate from The School of Toronto Dance Theatre where she had the opportunity to work with amazing choreographers such as Paul-André Fortier, Peggy Baker, Marc Boivin, Christopher House, Apolonia Velasquez and many more. She won the Kathryn Ash Leadership Award and received second prize in the Winchester Prize for her choreography. Since her graduation she has performed in Summer Works Festival and Dance Made in Canada Festival. Nicola is excited about what life has to offer and what her future will be in the dance community.

David Gale

On stage he’s starred in: Mr. Goldberg Goes To Tel Aviv, Unidentified Human Remains, The True Nature of Love, The Fantasticks, Jewish Radio Hour, Old Jews Telling Jokes and his musical Chutzpah à go-go won a Dora. TV credits include Suits, Degrassi, TNG, and The Listener. Gale was recently seen in the film Portrait of a Serial Monogamist, Early Mourning and Trials & Revelations. Early in his career he gave a revealing performance in an iconic ’90s musical film about AIDS: Zero Patience. Gale has hosted The Doras and The Cayle Chernin Awards and countless events. He is best known as the cheeky and charming host of Loving Spoonfuls: the cooking with grandmothers TV series that won him a Gemini and Galaxi award. The show is currently airing on Amazon Prime and ION Life in the U.S. He proudly serves as VP Communications for ACTRA Toronto and adores his son and family.

Theresa Tova

Theresa Tova is a long-time Riverdale resident who has graced the Riverdale Share stage on several occasions over the past 25 years. An award winning actor, writer and singer who headlines major International world music festivals described as a “Towering, pan-cultural jazz-cabaret diva” Tova starred as Emma Goldman in the First National Broadway tour of RAGTIME and Yenta in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at the Stratford Festival. Tova’s holocaust musical STILL THE NIGHT,won four Dora Awards and was nominated for the Governor General Award for Excellence in dramatic literature. Her latest musical Bella: The Colour of Love played to sold out houses in Philadelphia, Warsaw Poland, Halifax, Toronto and New York.

A long serving Arts activist Tova is President of ACTRA Toronto, Treasurer of ACTRA National, on the boards of the Creative Arts Savings and Credit Union, Theatre Teatron and is a recipient of the Cliff Pilkey Labour Activist Award.

Randy Vancourt

Writer, composer and performer, Randy’s music can been heard on TV shows from Carmen Sandiego and Dudley The Dragon to Our Magazine and YTV’s Don’t Lick The Pig. As a performer he has been both a member of the famed Second City and a puppeteer with The Muppets. Randy received a Dora nomination for his long running musical comedy, Chutzpah à Go-Go (co-written with David Gale). His song Just A Common Soldier (based on his father’s well-known poem) was recently turned into an Emmy Award-winning video production. Randy currently tours with his solo musical comedy, Bring The Piano. www.randyvancourt.com

Washboard Hank and Sweet Muriel

To call Washboard Hank a legend kinda implies he’s been there and done that… but he is stilling doing it! His live shows are legendary and hit home on many emotional levels. Hank had the ability to communicate and hilariously entertain his audience while delivering some powerful messages about the stinging indictments of what we are doing to our planet. Sweet Muriel is a dancer/choreographer who has channeled these skills into a music career. Her incredible stage presence unique voice along with her mandolin and tenor banjo playing are the perfect addition to a show that is truly unforgettable. “Sweet Muriel, sounds like a hillbilly Betty Boop on helium, an inspired fusion of Rose Maddox and the singer Betty was based on, Helen Kane. Hilarious and good.” The Northwestern Swing Music Society. Together they are a entertaining Country Roots duo who present music that is uniquely funny and skillful. www.washboardhank.net

Fade Awaays

Fade Awaays are a young, high energy Garage Rock four-piece, living deep in the heart of the vibrant indie music scene in Toronto. Having showcased their unmatched live show and charismatic stage presence playing many legendary Toronto venues from the Horseshoe Tavern to the Silver Dollar, Fade Awaays have also just recently released their debut self-titled EP and concluded a successful multi-city tour around Ontario and Quebec. Fade Awaays are: Reid MacMaster (guitar, lead vox), Sean Hackl (guitar, vox), Duncan Briggs (bass, vox) and Owen Wolff (drums). www.facebook.com/FADEAWAAYS

Torrent Productions

Torrent Productions is a professional east end theatre company dedicated to creating, developing and producing musical theatre. They produce an annual holiday pantomime at the Royal Canadian Legion 1/42 at Coxwell and Gerrard Street East for their neighbourhood and community. This year their 2^nd annual panto is PINOCCHIO – A Merry Magical Pantomime. #theboymadeofwoodisinthehood #ilovepanto www.torrentproductions.com

Frankland Junior Choir

The Frankland choir is made up of students in Gr. 4-6 who love to sing. The choir peforms at the Remembrance Day Assembly and December Concerts at Frankland School at Logan and Danforth. Our Choir is lead by our music teacher, Mr. Tom Roedding and our accompanist is Jenny Crober.

Densa School of Ukrainian Dance

DESNA School is a Toronto-based Ukrainian dance school under the artistic direction of Virksy trained Luba & Yuri Grekov. This is a place where children not only experience Ukrainian culture and tradition, but also create lasting friendships and attain unforgettable memories. DESNA School consists of children aged 2 to 14, who practice once a week at the Plast Huculak Centre. Our dancers have performed on many stages including Nathan Phillips Square and The Living Arts Centre. This past summer they traveled to Dauphin, MB to compete at the Canadian National Ukrainian Festival & to Chicago to perform at Chicago Ukrainian Days. Summer 2018 they will be travelling to Ukraine – to learn more about their heritage and where it all began. www.desna.ca

Bain & Bernard Comedy Company

Warren Bain, Matt Bernard, Jeremy Lapalme, Rylan O’Reilly, Nicholas Paddison and Katie Ryerson are members of the ever expanding Bain & Bernard Comedy Company. They are ecstatic to be apart of the Riverdale Share Concert this year. Look out for Bain & Bernard’s new comedy videos hitting Youtube this year under the name Robot’s Win!

Spraoi

Sproai continue bringing the best of the Irish tradition to Canadian audiences. With founding accordionist Pat Simmonds at the helm the band continues to evolve as a vehicle for the finest players on the Toronto scene.spraoi.ca

Due to her immense popularity, Tabby has overcommitted herself so we’ll have to let others experience the joy she

2016 Riverdale Share Performers

Your Host – Mike Tanner

Mike sings and plays guitar with local stalwarts the Circumstantialists, regularly rehabbing the dregs of last century’s pop catalogue. He is the City of Toronto’s Music Sector Development Officer. @abbottheleme Mike sings and plays guitar with local stalwarts the Circumstantialists, regularly rehabbing the dregs of last century’s pop catalogue. He is the City of Toronto’s Music Sector Development Officer. @abbottheleme

Danny Marks

This iconic rocker’s roots go back to the sixties as a founding member of Capitol Records’ group, Edward Bear. After a span as a journeyman session musician throughout the seventies, Danny settled in to the club scene, establishing a cult following as a genre bender in music and humor.

A house band gig at Toronto’s famed Albert’s Hall led him to host his own nation-wide TV show, Stormy Monday. Through the eighties, Danny starred in CBC radio’s hit series the Hum Line. A house band gig at Toronto’s famed Albert’s Hall led him to host his own nation-wide TV show, Stormy Monday. Through the eighties, Danny starred in CBC radio’s hit series the Hum Line.
Most recently, Danny Marks recorded two original music albums, Guitarchaeology and True, before paying tribute to Toronto’s R&B roots with Big Town Boy in 2005. Danny’s in his thirteenth year as the radio host of JAZZ.FM91’s Saturday night blues show, bluz.fm. www.dannym.com

Dala

Juno nominees Amanda Walther and Sheila Carabine of Dala write and sing in harmony best described as angelic. They have released six albums and toured extensively across North America, opening for artists such as Tom Cochrane, Chantal Kreviazuk and Stuart McLean of the CBC’s Vinyl Café. www.dalagirls.com

Julian Taylor

Toronto music scene staple and musical chameleon Julian Taylor is used to shaking it up. With his songs being placed in such TV shows as Haven and Elementary, his versatility as a songwriter is signature; one minute he’s playing at the Horseshoe backed by his 8-piece band spilling out electrified R&B glory, and the next he’s featured at a folk festival delivering a captivating solo singer-songwriter set.

As leader of the Julian Taylor Band he conjures soulful rhythm and blues, hard rock, thoughtful folky songs, and even a little hip-hop. His band’s most recent recording; Desert Star is a testament to this versatile sound, arguably the real roots of what could be called the Toronto Sound. It has the comfortability of an open mind, a wide palette and experienced and inspired musical talent. www.juliantaylorband.com

Tabby Johnson

Tabby was mentored by some of the world’s greatest artists and musicians and her social justice lens has been honed and developed since her days on Jump Street. She was backing vocalist in the early 80s for Rick James, singing on his international hit “Superfreak”, and later for her sister Molly Johnston’s band; Infidels. In addition to the occasional film and television dramatic roles (Cagney & Lacy, E.N.G.), as an actor she is more widely known for her roles in popular children’s programming such as The Big Comfy Couch, Polka Dot Door, and Noddy, as well as countless voice creations in a wealth of family animated series.

Tabby is most proud of using performance art to work with people at risk in marginalized communities, primarily women and youth. She encourages others to use their voice thru the lens of music, words rhythms and humour. By chance she met the Open Program in Toronto Canada and the rest is as they say is herstory.

Mike Ford and Murray Foster

Mike Ford & Murray Foster have been making music together for decades – as half of Moxy Fruvous, as a quarter of Great Big Sea, as a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal recipient, as a Canadian History troubadour, as a member of the Toronto Music Council as former Riverdalians – and now as Dusty & Reg of the Cocksure Lads…with an award-winning feature film to boot! thecocksureladsmovie.com

Washboard Hank

Washboard Hank plays a truly amazing conglomeration of bells, licence plates, duck calls, etc., and actually gets amazing music out of it. One reviewer called Washboard Hank “a cross between Jerry Lewis (not Jerry Lee) and Stompin’ Tom Connors.” Hank has appeared on dozens of TV shows (Elephant Show, W5, Mr. Dressup, etc.), performed on C.B.C.’s Madly Off In All Directions and spent four years as a member of Fred Eaglesmith’s band, doing 200 or more shows a year all over North America. www.washboardhank.net

Jen Schaffer and the Shiners

Jen Schaffer and the Shiners hail from Toronto via Montreal, Hamburg, Calgary and the UK! They are purveyors of original soulful folk/roots music with lush harmonies and heavy bass. Jen Schaffer is the lead singer-songwriter and acoustic guitarist who came to music via a stint as a public defender in the Appalachian foothills of Ohio, where she gained a love of alt-country songs and a heightened social conscience. Her self-penned works, which have garnered praise from the likes of Ron Sexsmith, speak of love, struggle, involvement and injustice and are sharply focused through the lens of her own life journey. The Shiners are Simon Law, the band’s drummer, keyboardist, background vocalist and producer, who is also a Grammy winning songwriter of Back to Life, and original member of Soul II Soul; Astrid Foster, who plays bass and contributes sweet background harmonies; John Teshima, who plays guitar, both electric and acoustic – he also plays keyboards and adds background harmonies; Jonathan Marks contributes background harmonies as well as playing violin, viola and mandolin; and Blair Packham is the band’s occasional Shiner, playing electric guitar and bass. Their single, Sunday Morning, New York City, was released in January 2016 and their debut full length album, Fate Line, is available at jenschaffer.ca, and iTunes. Having played the Mariposa Folk Festival this past Summer, the Shiners are back in the studio recording their second full-length record, Games We Play due out in 2017.

Fade Awaays

Frankland Choir

Frankland Junior Choir is made up of students in Gr. 4-6 who love to sing. The choir peforms at the Remembrance Day Assembly and December Concerts at Frankland School at Logan and Danforth. In the spring they will present a musical. Previous productions include The Lion King and Aladdin. This year we will present Fiddler on the Roof. Our Choir is lead by our music teacher, Mr. Tom Roedding and our accompanist is Jenny Crober.

Dorjee Tsering

Dorjee Tsering, a Tibetan in exile, was born in India. At the Tibetan Institute for Performing Arts (TIPA) in Dharamsala, India, he mastered several traditional instruments including the dranyen, piwang, flute, and the yang-qin. He also learned Tibetan opera, and dance. He later became a teacher at TIPA. Winner of the Tibetan Music Award for Best Traditional Artist in 2009. Dorjee has performed throughout India, Europe and Canada. He will be recording his 10^th CD in 2017. www.facebook.com/dorjee.tsering.733

Artists’ Play School of Dance

Composed of bright young dance students, this youth company provides an opportunity for dance students to work with professional choreographers, grow their own creative voice and perform in the community. Artists’ Play School of Dance focuses on proper dance technique and the fostering of creativity.www.artistsplay.com

Wendell Ferguson

Wendell Ferguson’s never worked a day in his life. He just plays the guitar. He’s won ‘Guitar Player of the Year’ 6 years in a row (CCMAs). His CD ‘Wendell Live, “The $#!T Hits the Fans” was nominated for “Album of the Year”. His ‘Menage a Moi’ won the 2010 CFMA for Solo Instrumental. He was recently inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. Oh, and you might laugh… Wendell is also a member of the Riverdale Share House Band www.wendellferguson.com

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Danny Bakan

Returning from his new home in Vancouver, ex-Riverdalian Danny Bakan is thrilled to celebrate the season again with his dear friends at Riverdale Share. A songwriter, scholar and educator, Danny recently sang his way to a Ph.D. with an award-winning dissertation and now teaches music, education, and media studies at UBC’s Faculty of Education. Danny’s artistic portfolio includes two CDs, performances across North America, theatrical productions, dance scores, children’s musicals, and appearances on CBC, syndicated US radio, and NPR. We are so happy to welcome him back. www.dannybakan.com

Sharon and Family

Sharon, Lois & Bram, Canada’s much loved Trio of family entertainers, have performed across North America for over thirty five years. Through their touring, their gold and platinum recordings, their acclaimed television series The Elephant Show and Skinnamarink TV, the Trio has sung its way into the hearts and homes of young and old alike. Sharon and Lois looked forward to Riverdale Share every year but sadly last spring, Lois passed away. Before she died she suggested that Sharon ask her daughter and grandsons to stand in for her. Randi Hampson, Ethan and Elijah Ullmann are honoured to join Sharon again and remember Lois, whose music will always remain in our hearts.

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Kitchen Music Studio Players

This delightful band of musicians is comprised of six young talents that frequent the the halls of Kitchen Music Studios in Riverdale: Maddie Aucoin and Mika Halinski on vocals, with Aidan Samuels, Asha Gonsalves, Ty Parker and Chloe Dynin on guitar. Kitchen Music Studios is known for its experienced and approachable instructors that teach music of all styles and levels, to music lovers young and old. www.kitchenmusicstudios.com

Matt Bernard

Matt Bernard is a Director and Playwright living in Toronto. He works with Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts as an Arts Educator creating material for their Drama Focus and Musical Theatre Programs Recent Writing and Directing credits include Romeo and Juliet Chainsaw Massacre (Toronto Fringe Festival) and Sherlock Holmes and the Case of Hamlet (St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival Sunday Series, Advice to the Players N.H.)

Jeremy Lapalme

Jeremy is a graduate of the musical theatre performance program at both Sheridan College and Wexford School of the Arts. Selected theatrical credits include: Hogtown (Hogtown Collective), Romeo and Juliet Chainsaw Massacre (Toronto Fringe Festival), Young Frankenstein, Spamalot, 80s Solid Gold (Stage West Calgary), Little Shop of Horrors, The Vaudevillians, You’re a good man Charlie Brown (Rose Theatre), Forever Plaid (Stirling Festival Theatre) and many others across Southern Ontario.

Spraoi

2015 Riverdale Share Performers

Spraoi

Uncle Ron

Uncle Ron consists of: Flynn Tanner (guitar, vocals, banjo); Ava Tobias (sax, vocals, dulcimer); Aden Wineberg (keyboards, squeezebox); Ben Dinsdale (bass, viola); Jackson Howlett (drums, zither). soundcloud.com/flynn-tanner, soundcloud.com/ava-tee

Michael Brennan

Cape Breton, Nova Scotia born and raised, Michael Brennan is the voice of REAL country music in Toronto. Possessing a deep, rich voice that’s been compared to Waylon Jennings and Roy Orbison, Brennan writes honest, straight-up working man songs full of characters who’ve loved and lost more often than they’ve won. www.michaelbrennan.ca

Eastview Folk Dancers

Eastview Folk Dancers began as a children’s dance group in 1996. Every year we have new youth who join the program. Our talented performers are between the ages of 14 and 18 and most have been training since they were 5 years old. They embody the spirit of tradition Chinese folk dancing, captivating audiences with their vibrant energy.

Jen Schaffer and the Shiners

Jen Schaffer and the ShinersJen Schaffer and the Shiners are an original soulful roots rock band, all Riverdale residents: Jen (songwriter, guitarist and lead singer), Simon Law (drummer, producer, Grammy winning songwriter of Back to Life, member of Soul II Soul), Astrid Foster (bass), John Teshima (guitar), Jonathan Marks (strings) and honorary Shiner Blair Packham (electric guitar). Their single, Sunday Morning, New York City, will be released in January 2016 and their debut album, Fate Line, is available at jenschaffer.ca and on iTunes.

The Toronto Choral Society Children’s Choir

The TCS Children’s Choir mission is to encourage and enrich the musical interests of children in Toronto’s east end by providing a community choir experience in which they can learn, perform, and develop a life-long appreciation for singing in a supportive environment. The original TCS Children’s Choir is for children in grades 4 to 6, and is led by Artistic Director and Conductor Sarah Parker. The choir is now expanding to include children from Grades 2 – 3 as well and is currently recruiting new members. www.torontochoralsociety.org

Fergus Hambleton

Fergus is a versatile singer, songwriter, composer and multi-instrumentalist who, during his illustrious career, has been a leading performer and songwriter in the folk, pop and reggae music arenas. Fergus is the front man of the Juno Award winning reggae outfit, “The Sattalites”, a member of reggae pop group “CIRCLE 5” circle5.ca as well as “The Jazz Lovers Society”. www.fergushambleton.com

Wendell Ferguson

Sharon and Family

Sharon, Lois & Bram, Canada’s much loved Trio of family entertainers, have performed across North America for over thirty five years. Through their touring, their gold and platinum recordings, their acclaimed television series The Elephant Show and Skinnamarink TV, the Trio has sung its way into the hearts and homes of young and old alike. Last year, Sharon and Lois, looked forward to singing again at Riverdale Share but due to illness, Lois was unable to participate. She suggested that Sharon ask her daughter and grandsons to stand in for her. Randi Hampson, Ethan and Elijah Ullmann are honoured to join Sharon again and remember Lois, who died this past spring, but whose music will always remain in our hearts.

Artists’ Play School of Dance–Youth Company

Composed of bright young dance students, this youth company provides an opportunity for dance students to work with professional choreographers, grow their own creative voice and perform in the community. Artists’ Play School of Dance focuses on proper dance technique and the fostering of creativity.www.artistsplay.com

Terra Hazelton

Terra Hazelton is a Canadian Jazz Vocalist & Band Leader, Record Producer, 2-time Canadian Screen Award Nominated Actress, former National Radio Host and Visual Artist. She studied at the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Academy before becoming a vocalist in the Jeff Healey band. Most recently, Terra released a Trio album called “That’s All”. She can also be seen in a web series called “Whatever Linda” and on the hit series ‘Orphan Black’. Terra’s newest project is ‘PERLHAZE’ the dynamic duo comprised of her and acclaimed vocalist Sophia Perlman.www.terrahazelton.com

Jen Georgopoulos

Founder of The Circus Academy and principal acrobat for Zero Gravity Circus, Jen Georgopoulos has become an accomplished globally recognized professional circus artist. Specializing in the dramatic aerial disciplines including swinging trapeze, aerial silks, and flying hoop, Jen enthrals us all with her sensational acrobatic prowess. Off stage, Jen makes her mark in dozens of films and television shows as a stunt performer.www.centreofgravity.ca

Arlene Bishop

For an independent songwriter with five albums to her name, singer Arlene Bishop is not one to jump into the spotlight. In fact, she normally prefers to stand at the back of the room and mentally peruse amusing musings. Maybe sheíll be a poet when she grows up but for now she’s getting ready to make a new album.www.arlenebishop.com

Russell deCarle

Russell deCarle is a founding member, lead vocalist, bassist, and contributing songwriter to the multi-platinum, Juno award winning, group Prairie Oyster. An in-demand solo artist and guest vocalist, he has released two albums: Under The Big Big Sky and Live at Loud Mouse Studios The sound is a celebration and culmination of a lifetime of music, including a time when Buck Owens, The Beatles, and Frank Sinatra could all be heard played back to back on the radio. russeldecarle.com

Bain and Bernard

Bain and Bernard, also known as Warren and Matt, are a Toronto based comedy writing team. Their body of work includes vaudevillian styled sketch comedy and drastic comedic overhauls of Shakespearean plays. Their work has been performed all over Toronto, some parts of Ontario, and in one town in America called ‘Sandwich’, in which they bought and ate a sandwich at the local restaurant (because when you’re in a town with a name like that, how could you not!). They both live in the neighbourhood and are very excited to be asked to contribute to Riverdale Share.www.facebook.com/Bain-Bernard-Comedy-103577636353180/

The Circumstantialists

Years of under-ventilated gigs have earned this group their moniker of “Riverdale’s sweatiest band.” On an endless quest to resuscitate the most righteously ignored 60s and 70s pop flotsam, the five Circs have over 450 years’ cumulative experience and the fashion sense to go with it. Members include Mike Tanner, Gill Deacon, Mitch Wallace, Ian McLean and Flynn Tanner (subbing in today for Pete Griffin) facebook.com/circumstantialists

Donné Roberts

Donne is a singer/guitarist known as the provider of the happy music from Madagascar. He came to wider recognition after he released his albums “Rhythm Was Born” and “Internation” and for his contribution as one of the members of the African Guitar Summit project, which won a JUNO in 2005 and was nominated for another one in 2007. Donné also is the first black VJ on MTV Russia.www.donneroberts.com

Santa and his Elves

Santa resides with Mrs. Claus and their elves in the North Pole where they spend the whole year getting ready for Christmas. Santa never misses the Riverdale Share Concert and looks forward to seeing all the boys and girls – especially the ones who have tried to be good all year long. On Christmas Eve he will harness all the reindeer to his sleigh, and with Rudolph leading the way, will deliver toys to boys and girls all over the world. Santa wishes all of you a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Micah Barnes

Mia Sheard

Mia Sheard is a singer, songwriter and Registered Psychotherapist in Riverdale. Touring with Classic Albums Live, running her private practice, and spending time with her family , leaves her with approximately 11 seconds at the end of each day, which she occasionally uses to write bios. www.facebook.com/miasheardtherapy?fref=ts

2014 Riverdale Share Performers

Mike Tanner – Host

Mike is the chief cook and bottle-washer with local band The Circumstantialists (facebook.com/circumstantialists), rehabbing the most forgettable pop of the ‘70s each month at the Dora Keogh. In October Mike began his new position at City Hall as Toronto’s Music Sector Development Officer. It is a gig about finding ways to further the growth and heighten the profile of the city’s music industry. He is also Deputy Treasurer of the Sue Baker Fan Club.

Kim Stockwood

Kim Stockwood is a born entertainer, a fine songwriter and a successful recording artist. Her solo success comes from multiple radio hits including Jerk, She’s Not In Love, and You Won’t Remember This. Kim has also hit the top of the charts with trio, Shaye, with Happy Baby and Lake of Fire. Kim’s most recent album, Back to the Water, is a collection of traditional folk songs, and a tribute to her beloved Newfoundland. Winner of the ECMA award for Folk/Traditional Solo Recording of the Year in 2012, the record has been embraced by folk audiences and Stockwood fans across Canada.

Robert Missen

Tenor Robert Missen has had a long and distinguished career in this business we call show. He has been and continues to be a performer, artist’s manager, artistic director, producer, promoter and all-around cheerleader for the performing arts in all its wonderful manifestations. He is thrilled to be back at Riverdale Share after quite a number of years. Merry, Christmas, everyone!

Wexford Gleeks

The award winning Wexford Gleeks are a nationally recognized ensemble formed from the auditioned Wexford Collegiate Performing Arts program. They have recently been the subject of the TVO documentary Unsung – Behind the Glee‘ and The Real Glee by Global Television’s 16 by 9. Graduates of the program work all over the world with former students working at Shaw, Stratford and on Broadway.

Don Gough – Circus Academy

Don Gough has been studying various forms of Martial Arts since 1979. Competing and teaching since 1982, his titles include national and regional championships. His teaching experience extends beyond traditional Martial Arts in the areas of acrobatics, gymnastics and self-defense. His company, The Road to Safety Self-Defense, specializes in instruction for women, children, the physically impaired and personal security agents. As a circus performer his main focus has been fire performance and stilt walking. Don is also a professional stunt performer and actor, working in film, television and theatre since the age of 7.

Pressgang Mutiny

Pressgang Mutiny is a six-man a capella ensemble from Toronto dedicated to spreading the tradition of sea shanties from all parts of the world. Come and hear strong harmonies delivered with energy and enthusiasm!

Kitchen Music Studios – Young Players

This delightful band of musicians is comprised of six young talents that frequent the halls of Kitchen Music Studios in Riverdale: Cait Roberts and Mika Halinski on vocals, with Aidan Samuels, Maddie Aucoin, Ty Parker and Chloe Dynin on guitar. This is their first performance for Riverdale Share and they are pleased as punch to participate. Merry Christmas everyone! For more info on all that Kitchen Music offers, visit kitchenmusicstudios.com

Murray McLauchlan

Murray McLauchlan began writing songs and performing them in his late teens. He played at major music festivals, such as The Philadelphia Folk Festival and Mariposa, where he appeared alongside Jim Croce and John Prine. Now, thirty odd years later, Murray has eighteen albums to his credit on both True North Records and Capitol Records. Murray has won eleven JUNO awards. In 1993, he was appointed to the order of Canada. In the fall of 2012 he released the highly successful album Human Writes which was played extensively in the U.K., Europe and Australia.

Ventanas

Both Dennis and Tamar grew up in musical households and began their musical careers at the age of four: Dennis on classical piano and guitar and Tamar singing Sephardic, Balkan and Medieval music. They both began studying flamenco at a young age, and eventually met at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto. They have since each spent a year studying at Seville’s prestigious flamenco academy, La Fundación Cristina Heeren. In 2011 they started Ventanas, fusing flamenco, Balkan and Sephardic music and dance.

Circus Academy – Nigara Mardan

Nigara Mardan came to Canada from Uighur with her father to join her mother, Aygul Memet, an international award-winning acrobat. Now Nigara follows in her mother’s footsteps, already well on her way to becoming an accomplished acrobat & contortionist with Toronto’s own Zero Gravity Circus

Artists’ Play School of Dance–Youth Company

Composed of bright young dance students, this youth company provides an opportunity for dance students to work with professional choreographers, grow their own creative voice and perform in the community. Today’s piece is a fun and playful dance involving ballet and hip hop styles. It was made specifically for this holiday season! Sugar plums, toy soldiers and fairies! Artists’ Play School of Dance focuses on proper dance technique and the fostering of creativity.

David Gale and Randy Vancourt

David

David has hosted award shows (The Doras & The Harolds) acted at Stratford, (Pirates of Penzance) acted in award‐winning films (Zero Patience) and was recently seen on The Listener. He has directed theatre in Toronto, Minneapolis, Stratford, Vancouver, Edinburgh and London, England. Gale co‐wrote, produced and starred in the award‐winning musical Chutzpah à GoGo, which played across North America. David won Gemini and Galaxi awards for hosting the cooking‐with‐grandmothers TV show, Loving Spoonfuls. Gale is also Vice President:Communications for ACTRA Toronto.

Randy

Juno-nominated composer, writer and performer, Randy has written music for TV and radio shows from Carmen Sandiego to Dudley The Dragaon to Dr. Demento. He has been Musical Director for over 100 stage productions, and his original work includes co-writing, producing and starring in the award-winning Chutzpah à Go-Go, with productions across Canada and in the U.S. For 15 years he has been one-half of The Original Canadian Dueling Pianos Show and recently worked with the legendary Connie Francis on her latest release, A Soldier Died Today.

Drew Gonsalves – Kobo Town

Originally from Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, Drew Gonsalves is a singer and songwriter whose music has been described as “a unique, stylistic, transnational composite of rhythm, poetry and activist journalism.” (Exclaim!) He is the bandleader of Toronto-based Kobo Town whose latest album Jumbie in the Jukebox topped the European World Music Charts last year and was nominated for both the Polaris Prize and a 2014 Juno Award. With the group, he tours regularly throughout Europe, North America and the Caribbean.

Devin Cuddy

Musical talent certainly doesn’t fall far from the tree in the Cuddy family. Despite being the son of Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy, Devin has always been determined to forge his own musical path. Drawing on influences from New Orleans jazz and good old fashioned honky tonk, Devin’s debut album, Volume One (2012) garnered a Juno nomination right out of the gate. His sophomore record Kitchen Knife was released summer 2014.

Bain and Bernard

Bain and Bernard, also known as Warren and Matt, are a Toronto based comedy writing team. Their body of work includes vaudevillian styled sketch comedy and drastic comedic overhauls of Shakespearean plays. Their work has been performed all over Toronto, some parts of Ontario, and in one town in America called ‘Sandwich’, in which they bought and ate a sandwich at the local restaurant (because when you’re in a town with a name like that, how could you not!). They were very excited to be asked to contribute to Riverdale Share, and look forward to seeing you.

Frankland School Choir

Frankland Choir is made up of kids from Grade 4 to 6 who love to sing. Under the direction of our teacher, Mr. Tom Roedding and accompanist, Jenny Crober, we perform at several school concerts each year. Outside of school, they have performed at previous Riverdale Share concerts, a TDSB Showcase Concert at Massey Hall, sung O Canada at a Blue Jays game, and even opened for the Barenaked Ladies! The choir is accompanied by Patrick Hornsby.

Sharon and Lois and Bram

Canada’s much loved Trio of family entertainers have sung with families across North America for over thirty years. Through their touring, their gold and platinum recordings, their acclaimed television series, The Elephant Show and Skinnamarink TV, the Trio has sung its way into the hearts and homes of young and old alike. They were honoured with UNICEF’s Danny Kaye Humanitarian Award and from Mount Saint Vincent University the degree “Doctor of Humane Letters.” In 2002, they became members of the Order of Canada. In 2012 they received the Magic Penny Award, a lifetime achievement award from the Children’s Music Network. Sharon and Lois are once again delighted to participate in Riverdale Share.

Spraoi

Blair Packham

Blair Packham started writing his poppy, Beatle-esque songs in the early 1980s and almost immediately also formed a group he called The Jitters, who enjoyed five Canadian hits, including Last of the Red Hot Fools and Closer Every Day. In 2014, Blair continues to write and record his own songs while also co-hosting In the Studio on Newstalk 1010. He also teaches song writing both at Seneca College and at SongStudio, the annual summertime workshop he founded with Rik Emmett in 2005.

AND OF COURSE, THE MAN OF THE SEASON….SANTA!

2012 Performers

YOUR HOST – Mike Tanner

Mike is the chief cook and bottle-washer with local band The Circumstantialists, rehabbing the most forgettable pop of the ‘70s each month at the Dora Keogh. He is a charter member of the Sue Baker Fan Club. myspace.com/thecircumstantialists

Bill Usher

Bill is a three-time Juno Award winner who performed at the first ten Riverdale Share concerts. Bill is now the executive director of Kicking Horse Culture, the local arts council in Golden, BC. KickingHorseCulture.ca

Debbie Fleming

Debbie Fleming has been making her living as a singer/musician for over 30 years — jingles, TV Shows, recordings, backup vocals, arranging, songwriting and fronting jazz and R&B bands. She’s a longtime member of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, and plays guitar and uke. An alumna of Riverdale Share, she is very happy to be back, and singing her arrangement of O Holy Night – with an R&B/gospel twist! debbiefleming.ca

Michael Brennan

Cape Breton born and raised, Michael Brennan is considered the voice of REAL country music in Toronto. Possessing a full blooded, passionate voice that’s been compared to Waylon Jennings and Roy Orbison, Brennan writes honest, straight-up working man songs full of characters who’ve loved and lost more often than they’ve won. michaelbrennan.com

Steven Page

Steven Page is one of Canada’s most recognizable voices. He was the lead singer and songwriter with Barenaked Ladies for 20 years. They sold nearly 15 million albums, won numerous Junos, two Grammy nominations and two Geminis. Steven left the band in 2009 to pursue a solo and theatrical career. Last year, he was nominated for a Genie Award for his song A Different Sort of Solitude, from the film French Immersion. He has composed four scores for the Stratford Festival, most recently for 2011’s hit, Cymbeline. He regularly records and performs with The Art of Time Ensemble, and has released two solo albums, most recently, 2010’s, Page One. He is currently recording a follow-up to be released in 2013. stevenpage.com

Zero Gravity Circus – Jen Georgopoulos

Initially trained as a competitive gymnast, Jen Georgopoulos has become an accomplished globe-trotting professional circus aerialist specializing in the dramatic aerial disciplines with Zero Gravity Circus, including static and swinging trapeze, aerial silks, corde lisse and the classic lyra. She is trained in stunts including fight choreography, fire work and high falls, appearing in major motion pictures. zerogravitycircus.com

3 In The Key

Just who is 3 In The Key? Duncan Briggs, Isabella Schaffer-Hooper and Lucas Celia of course! After their debut on the Withrow Fun Fair stage last year, they’re just tickled to be asked to play Riverdale Share’s 20th. Their musical influences include a wide range of bands from Led Zeppelin to Chuck Berry, from Adele to Muse. Oh, and always with a side of the Beatles. And with the average age of just 12 between them, they’ve got time to add more influences to the mix.

Robert Priest

Robert Priest is a poet and songwriter. His latest CD of songs Feeling the Pinch is available on iTunes. Most of the songs on it were co-written with Allen Booth who co-wrote Green Christmas. So if you love that song you would love the CD only 9.99 on iTunes. poempainter.com

Alexandria Taylor

Alexandria Taylor is a young musician from Toronto, studying Jazz Performance at U of T. She loves songwriting and is currently working on her own album. She performs around the city with her jazz combo and piano/vocal duo. Alexandria is thrilled to be performing at Riverdale Share Christmas for the second time with Robert Priest.

Wexford Gleeks

The Wexford GLEEKS is an auditioned solo ensemble at Wexford School for the Arts, who have built a reputation for outstanding performances throughout the GTA. Overseen by Ann Merriam (Artistic Director, Wexford School for the Arts), these gifted young artists are guided by professional guest artists/educators Jeffrey Newberry and Barbara Johnston. In true GLEE fashion, the GLEEKS come together once a week to have a blast creating inventive arrangements and exciting choreography, because at WEX — it’s cool to be GLEEK.

KC and the Treble-Makers

KC and the Treble-Makers (aka Bejewelled Jackson and the 16 Sparklets) are a quirky bunch of neighbourhood kids who love to sing. Organized and led by Karen Dewey Decker and Carolyn Ricketts (conductor) this cheerful group is very pleased and excited to take part in Riverdale Share 2012. Thank you to Benjamin Page and Isaac Page for assisting with the rehearsals. Happy Holidays!

Soul Influence

Soul Influence is an acclaimed African a cappella ensemble whose harmonies and vocal percussion will set your feet tapping! Hailing from Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ghana & Zambia, these vocalists bring traditional African styles and rhythms with a messages of hope and faith. soulinfluence.org

Eastminister Choir

The Eastminster Choir makes their home across the street at Eastminster United Church under the direction of Jacqueline Sadler. The Choir is making their Carnegie Hall debut in February 2013 with Distinguished Concerts International New York. Their CD Seasons of Song is available through the church office. eastminsteruc.org

Luba Goy – Actress, Comedienne

Luba has been with Riverdale Share since the beginning and is thrilled to behere to celebrate the 20th Anniversary. As an active member of Volunteer Canada she is kept very busy playing host to a multitude of fundraising events. She also performs in her own one-woman show, Luba, Simply Luba,which will tour Canada in the near future. This year Luba was presented with the Diamond Jubilee Medal for her contribution to Canada. Catch her onthe upcoming 20th Air Farce Annual New Year’s Eve Special on CBC!

Russell deCarle

Russell deCarle is a founding member, lead vocalist, bassist, and contributing songwriter to the multi-platinum, Juno award winning, country-roots group Prairie Oyster. Russell’s debut solo project, Under The Big Big Sky, is a distinct departure from the sound of the band, and features jazz and torch-blues influenced vocals on nine of eleven self-penned originals. The deep groove of the unique live trio instrumentation (rhythm acoustic guitar, lead acoustic guitar, and accordion) brings to life material from the record, timeless classics of the 50s and 60s, and selected covers of musical friends and influences. The sound is a celebration and culmination of a lifetime of music, including a time when Buck Owens, The Beatles, and Frank Sinatra could all be heard played back to back on the radio. russelldecarle.com

Sproai

Suzie Vinnick

When Saskatoon native Suzie Vinnick takes the stage, she takes it from footlights to rafters and owns it. She can belt out a blues or croon a ballad with equal deftness. Her guitar work is effortlessly commanding and supremely tasteful. But it is mostly her powerful presence that leaves a lasting impression. This lady is a force of nature with a six-string guitar. Ya gotta experience her to understand. Mike Agranoff, Program Chairman, The Minstrel Concert Series, Morristown, NJ suzievinnick.com

Tim Bovaconti

Tim Bovaconti has been a fixture on the Toronto music scene for the past 20 years. As well as playing with The Sattalites, he is currently lead guitarist for Ron Sexsmith and Burton Cummings and is close to releasing a new solo album. tombovaconti.com

Fergus Hambleton

A fixture on the Canadian music scene for the last four decades, Fergus Hambleton is a versatile singer, songwriter, composer and multi-instrumentalist. Fronting the Juno Award winning reggae outfit The Sattalites and forging a successful solo career are among his many musical achievements. These days Fergus is in high demand as a session player and arranger offering expertise ranging from playing saxophone, clarinet, guitar and vocals. Upcoming live performances include The Two Bobs, a re-imagining of Bob Marley and Bob Dylan songs; regular appearances with the Sattalites, The Tuesday Night Club, and a number of other groups including his own jazz ensemble The Jazz Lovers Society. fergushambleton.com

Mia Sheard

Mia Sheard is a critically acclaimed singer/songwriter set to release her 4th album, The Curse of the Vorus in early 2013. Parallel to her life as a musician, Mia has embarked on a second career as a Gestalt therapist. She lives with her family in Riverdale. miasheard.com