Notes from the Rotary Meeting 12.30pm Thursday, February 1, 2024

President Jackie chaired the meeting. 

At this week’s draw there was a roll over again as the person who played the winning number had not played this week. Remember if you paid in advance to the Toonie Quest West weekly draw to check the week when you need to add toonies. 

Winter Carnival Event on Tuesday February 20 at the Rotary Arts Centre. Rotary with Xavier House is hosting a well name game show based on “Family Feud” which will be a Winter Carnival Local Feud between local groups. At the last lunch meeting on January 25^th, Rotarians played the game and had lots of fun and laughter.  Come along on the 20^th to the Rotary Arts Centre, RAC to enjoy the fun. Cost is $10 and tickets are available at the RAC and Xavier House

Program-chair Olaf introduced the guest speaker Ian Locke, associate artistic director of Camber Arts. Ian spoke about the impact of community music and musical theatre, not only on those involved in performances and productions, but also for those who are in the audience as well.  The community musical ‘The Music Man’ will be performed at the Corner brook Arts and Culture Centre on February 15^th – 17^th. Ian spoke about the story of this show and his character Harold Hill who visited River City, Iowa, with the aim to scam the citizens and then skip town.  Harold during the show, ends up wanting to help the community.

 Ian noted that when following a path forward it is important to have a deep appreciation of the past and as well as having a vision for the future. He noted the teachers such as Gary Graham, Katie Anderson and Jennifer Matthews have had a direct impact on the musical legacy in Corner Brook.

 He continued by talking of the upcoming community musical which has a cast of over 90 people and a 15-piece orchestra. He looked at the layers of mentors and mentees involved in music in Corner Brook and particularly in the upcoming musical. He gave a couple of examples of community involvement over the years showing the community dedication and support. Community musicals go back at least 20 years in Corner Brook which through the years have involved many citizens and added to the cultural life of the city.