Communities

Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life isn’t just a show, it’s a cause. A heartfelt passion project that began as a nudge after Keith Alessi’s life took a major turn, it has been his mission to raise money for causes close to his heart. Through donations, including 100% of all artist fees, the show has raised over $1.2 Million Dollars (CAD) as of December 2025 for various charities including cancer organizations, music programs, community groups and artist funding and development. All Proceeds from the performances at the King’s Head Theatre will benefit the theatres Angels of Angel program which supports creation and production of new theatrical productions. The show has sold out runs across Canada, Off-Broadway in New York City, and at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland 3 years in a row. It has toured internationally, including Canada, the US, England, Scotland and Australia. Keith shares his exceptional true story of leaving the world of corporate board rooms behind to follow his long-delayed passion-playing the banjo! When faced with a deadly cancer battle, his musical pursuit took him on a journey that became the key to saving his life. Told through authentic storytelling, heartfelt humor and music, Keith’s story is an uplifting tale of challenge, triumph, and the the healing power of the arts and music.

A Canadian folk staple, The Fugitives have been nominated for a JUNO, as well as 7 Canadian Folk Music Awards, including Best Vocal Group, Best Ensemble, and Best Songwriter. They've performed at Glastonbury, were awarded Best Folk Album of the Year by the German Music Critics’ Association, and were named a 2020 Globe & Mail "Top Arts Pick of the Year". They've earned a reputation for unforgettable live shows, brimming with complex harmonies, infectious storytelling and top-notch musicianship. As the CBC has it: "This show is simply brilliant." In 2026-27, they will be touring in support of their seventh album.

Savour the tradition of the troubadours, as Ménestrel breathes vivid life into music that has been shaped by centuries. Their voyage through historic repertoire is accented by lute, guitar and the intricate colours of the human voice. With selections ranging from grand compositions by Purcell, Dowland, and Monteverdi to nostalgic Gaelic, Québécois, and English folk melodies, Ménestrel reminds us of the pleasure of these musical forms. The group consists of recognized artists Janelle Lucyk (soprano), Kerry Bursey (tenor, guitar and lute) and Vincent Lauzer (recorder). who have established a reputation for combining ancient repertoire with elements of folk song.

In 1991, The Johner Brothers took the Canadian country music audience by storm. Brad and Ken were named "Duo of the Year" by the Canadian Country Music Association, kicking off a string of awards. After being crowned 'Entertainer of the Decade' and releasing a remarkable 26 singles from six hit albums, Ken retired from the music business in 2002. Brad continued with a hugely successful solo career, recording six highly praised albums and awarded "Male Artist of the Year" by the CCMA. After twenty years, the Johner Brothers are back together and looking forward to a busy year playing shows across western Canada. Backed by two of Brad's sons, the show is a fresh version of what Johner fans have come to expect as they are astute professionals and true gentlemen of the stage.

Sitruc James is Canada's most sought after performer with his grand illusion magic show. This mesmerizing and mind-boggling experience will leave the audience in awe. With his charismatic energy and showmanship, Sitruc's performance is a combination of illusions, comedy, and audience participation that will keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Sitruc's show is a culmination of year's worth of expertise and mastery in the art of illusion. The show incorporates a wide range of complex illusions which are seamlessly integrated with live music, lighting, and sound, creating an immersive and visually stunning experience. Sitruc's performances are designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. This fun show is an immersive and thrilling experience, a perfect blend of magic, comedy, and audience engagement. His performances leave audiences spellbound and mesmerized. For people looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, Sitruc James' show is not to be missed.

Jessica Rhaye with Bill Preeper and Sandy MacKay is a folk trio that back to the height of the Greenwich Village folk scene of the 60’s, weaving and sharing lead and harmony. It's new folk music at its finest, pulling together inspiration from the likes of Woody Guthrie, Ian Tyson, Bob Dylan, with a Maritime Appalachian Folk sound with a unique mix of acoustic and electric instruments. The trio’s version of Blowin’ in the Wind has generated, to date, more than 15 million views on YouTube. "The modern folk trio offered their skills to the famed Dylan track (Blowin’ in the Wind) in a string laden rendition. Rich with golden vocals, acoustics and even a Mandolin, Rhaye, and her group would make Baez and the rest of the ‘60-s decade proud with this heartfelt version.+- AMERICAN SONGWRITER MAGAZINE