Busy times ahead in Cape Breton!

There are busy times ahead between now and Christmas with Celtic cultural activities in Cape Breton. Here are a number of examples:

The root of the culture is the Gaelic language, so learning Gaelic will provide insight into the entire culture. There are Gaelic classes, taught by A. J. MacDougall, taking place every Wednesday in several locations. At 1 PM, classes take place at the KOC Club in Port Hawkesbury, and then again at 7 PM at the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre in Judique. There is usually a Gaelic Mass that takes place that evening as well, at St. Andrews Church, just across the road from the Centre.

All are invited to an Information Session on the Office of Gaelic Affairs Gaelic Language in Community Program, taking place this Thursday at 7 PM at the Knox Presbyterian Hall in Baddeck. This is just one of a series of sessions being held across the province, providing information and an opportunity to discuss the program.

Don’t forget the regular Thursday evening music sessions that happen at Rollie’s Wharf in North Sydney and at the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre in Judique. You can bring your instruments and join in or just sit and enjoy.

An Comunn Gàidhlig Cheap Breatuinn is presenting “Cofaidh ‘is Cabadaich,” a Gaelic conversation circle hosted by two fluent Gaelic speakers. It is held on Saturday afternoons, from 1-3, at the Sydney River Superstore. There are two sessions still remaining in the series, December 5 and 12. The cost is just $5/session.

This Friday afternoon from 4 to 6, CBC Radio will be broadcasting from the Lyceum Building in Sydney. It’s the official launch of the new CD of the songs and music of Lauchie Gillis. Gaelic Songs From The Mira is an extensive re-issue of many of Lauchie’s early recordings. The proceeds from the sale of the CDs will go to the Lauchie Gillis Memorial Scholarship Fund at Cape Breton University.

And on Friday evening it’s the official opening of the newly renovated Community Hall in Creignish with music by Troy MacGillivray, Andrea Beaton, Cheryl Smith and Jimmie Inch.

The regular Saturday afternoon music session continues at Chéticamp’s Doryman’s Tavern, starting at 2 PM. If you are in the Sydney area, there are now two sessions to choose from: at Governor’s Celtic Pub, (formally Bunker’s), on The Esplanade in Sydney, with Carl MacKenzie and Pat Chafe and at Daniel’s on Charlotte Street where this week’s session features Celtic Infusion.

This Saturday night it’s Howie MacDonald and friends playing for a square dance at the Westmount Legion. And, of course, the regular square dance is being held in West Mabou as well.

The annual Christmas Fair at the Gaelic College takes place at the College in St. Ann’s throughout the day on December 5. Events include a sale at the Gaelic College Craft Shop and other activities.

The Sunday music session at the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre in Judique on December 6 features Andrea Beaton. That same night, Strathspey Place in Mabou hosts a Step Dance Recital, featuring Mary Janet MacDonald’s students.

First United Church in Sydney hosts the Joyful Sounds of Christmas on December 6 featuring fiddler Colin Grant, Kelly MacArthur Dancers, Don Crouse, the Cape Breton Chordsmen and a children’s choir. The MC is Wendy Bergfeldt, host of CBC’s Mainstreet.

On December 13, St. Joseph’s Church Hall in Glencoe Mills hosts an evening of Pastoral Airs beginning at 7:30. Guests include Kinnon and Betty Lou Beaton, Kelly MacLennan and Girls, Maggie Beaton, Sandy Gillis, K.C Beaton and more.

Lyrics & Laughter are performing four Christmas shows at the Louisbourg Playhouse starting December 17.

It’s getting to be a very busy time of year. Make sure to take in some of the Celtic cultural events!

Until next time,

Dan

Remember: if you have any information on upcoming events, or anything that you feel should be included on Celtic Heart Beat, please drop me a line at celticheartbeat1@gmail.com. Thanks!!