This post was sponsored by NB Tourism, Heritage and Culture. The opinions are completely my own, based on my experience.
Saint John has a strong supportive music and arts community, and it shows, especially in the uptown core. The locally produced documentary, Highest Tides & Green Grass: Introducing Saint John’s Newest Hitmakers, was made to celebrate some of the people making waves. It fittingly premiered at the Imperial Theatre, a Saint John hub with a history dating back to 1913.
Every time I walk into the Imperial Theatre, I am awestruck by the grandeur. The inside was restored in the late ’90s to its original 1913 brilliance. From the ceiling hangs an enormous, elegant chandelier, surrounded by magnificent mouldings and detailed plasterwork that also can be found on the walls. Due to its rich history, it is a National Historic Site of Canada. If its walls could talk, they would regale you with memories of silent films shown here featuring Charlie Chaplin. Later it became a stage for vaudeville acts and eventually turned into a cinema. Fast forward to today, it is now a city epicentre for films, theatre performances, musicians, and more!
With its extensive creative past, this theatre was the perfect place to see this locally made film. I could feel everyone’s excitement as tickets were being checked at the entrance. Some of the individuals highlighted in the film were in attendance, along with many creative community members and their supporters. Before it started, Producer & Director Karen Riley welcomed everyone and gave thanks to the community that this documentary was celebrating, the Hitmakers of Saint John.
Even though I only moved back to the city a few years ago, I recognized many Saint Johners. Every person spotlighted had contributed to the arts in Saint John. They have lifted up the city through their creations, guiding it to the eclectic city it is today. Their waves have been felt across Canada. A few features included Cait Milberry and Cherise Letson of Strange Grooves, a podcast & community-based around their passion for all things music and bringing people together. Poet, producer, director, and playwright Clyde A. Wray, at the time of filming, was also the Saint John Theatre Company’s Artist in Residence. Owner and operator of the Five and Dime, a vinyl record bar, Jody Kliffer. He also organized Moonlight Bazaar, an outdoor festival surrounding a large moon that hangs down in the middle of historical brick-framed streets. I will not share anymore, keeping the rest a surprise when you see the film for yourself!
