I heard a rumour that renowned Canadian tenor, Michael Burgess, was coming to Oliver for a once in a lifetime summer concert at the Oliver Community Bandshell. It seemed a little unlikely so, recently,  I headed to Willowbrook to investigate.

Stephanie Salsnek, manager of Paw Prints Studio & Gallery – The Art of John Salsnek, is also our Oliver Community Arts Council’s 2013 President, bringing her business acumen to this year’s Board and, it seems, her famous friend.

She and her husband John Salsnek met Michael Burgess and his amazing pianist, Carol Colpitts, years ago when they were seated at same table at a Charity Ball, “I expected them to be ‘stars’ and was even more starstruck after their first set, a stunning performance of classic Burgess, yet they joined the table and it was instant friendship. They are truly the most unassuming, delightful people we’ve ever met”.

Stephanie says this recent interview says it all.   Burgess  brings big voice to Pavilion | Entertainment | Haliburton Echo

“Michael is planning a short vacation in the South Okanagan after his July 31st concert at Cedar Creek in Kelowna, one conversation led to another and now the Oliver Community Arts Council is proud to present….. I’m just thrilled that the OCAC has championed this project, we may be small but we’re mighty!”

It seems our fine residents are also looking forward to this very special summer concert, Early Bird tickets sold out in 48 hours, Advanced Tickets are now available from several locations. “I’m excited to see Oliver embracing this event, I want Michael and Carol to go home very impressed with us, too! You never know who we’ll attract to our fair hamlet, we can be wine and more country.”

OCAC’s Music in the Park launches it’s 2013 season with the Penticton Concert Band, July 4th, also in the Oliver Community Bandshell.

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