A powerful new musical event entitled ‘The 18’ will take place at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist on Remembrance Day (Friday, November 11). Featuring both musical and theatrical elements, the concert will bring to life the remarkable story of the children at London’s Beatrix Potter School, who discovered and began a tradition of paying tribute to the graves of 18 Newfoundland First World War soldiers.
The show will take place at 2:00 p.m., and as a special Come Home 2022 event, admission is free for all ages. Event organizers are accepting donations at the door for the Poppy Campaign, which supports veterans and their families.
‘The 18’ will feature an original script written by composer and founder/co-artistic director of Best Kind Productions, Kyle McDavid. The moving narrative will be highlighted by performances from The Ennis Sisters, Petrina Bromley, Mason Dicker and Annabelle Ramsay, the Lakecrest Chamber Choir, Lady Cove Women’s Choir, La Rose des Vents, Newman Sound Men’s Choir, the NL Deaf Choir, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment Band, Silvern Voices from Corner Brook and the Singing Legionnaires.
‘The 18’ will also premiere a brand new song created especially for this event, ‘Forever Far From Home’, by Maureen Ennis and Perry Chafe and arranged by Leslee Heys.
Come Home 2022 festivals and events are taking place all throughout Newfoundland and Labrador for the remainder of 2022. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians everywhere can visit ComeHome2022.ca to sign up for the Come Home 2022 e-newsletter, which shares updates on festivals and events throughout the year. They can also follow on Facebook and Instagram to get up-to-date celebration information.
Quotes
“Remembrance Day is a solemn day for people throughout the Commonwealth, as we remember and honour both the anniversary of the end of the First World War and all lives lost during warfare. With its connection to ‘home’, ‘The 18’ will no doubt resonate with audiences. I extend my best wishes to the creative team and performers.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“It is a huge privilege for Lady Cove Choir, Newman Sound, and the Singing Network to partner with our Government and the many artists involved to bring together this unique and powerful act of Remembrance for all members of our community to share in. I’d like to thank the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation for their support and belief in this special project.”
Kellie Walsh
Artistic Director
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Media contact
Adrienne Luther
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 730-2953
adrienneluther@gov.nl.ca