From ancient drums to modern dance and everything in between, the Little Lunch Music series at Collingwood Public Library celebrates the arts in all forms.
Little Lunch Music takes place on the first and third Tuesday of every month from 12:15 to 1 p.m. The idea is for working people to spend their lunch breaks enjoying local entertainment. Of course, the audience isn’t limited to working professionals. Like all library programs, it’s free and inclusive.
The acts are varied, though music plays a prominent role, it’s not the only medium expressed. The Regal Jazz Band played recently, there have been opera singers, singer/songwriters, guitarist, pianists, folk singers and string quartets. There have also been dance troupes, musicians who specialize in ancient music and artists such as Darlene Sacks who plays Handpan percussion.
Though nobody who is involved now remembers when it started, they all know it’s been going on a long time.
Library staffer Dorothy Gebert oversees the program now with help from volunteer John Haines who books the artists.
“We want to give local musicians and performers a venue to try out new work and to get experience,” said Gebert.
“We’re all about the arts, and not just literary arts … We are providing arts experiences to the community. The library is more than just books.”
The series typically draws a crowd of about 30 people. The performances take place in the Free Schools World Literacy Room at Collingwood Library and coffee, tea and cookies are served. The entertainment is free, but donations are appreciated.
Author and playwright Dan Needles will be performing April 3 for Little Lunch Music at the library starting at 12:15 p.m. Colin Eccles and Marilyn Bourne entertain with piano and vocals on April 17.
