I’m always amazed by the amount and depth of talent in the whole of Canada, and in the Greater Victoria Area (GVA) more specifically.
The Sooke Philharmonic, Victoria Symphony, ballet, modern dance, a variety of theatre groups, jazz, rock, reggae, blues, choruses and choirs, opera -- you name it, we’ve got it.
So it never fails to amaze me that our two local tv stations, CHEK Victoria and CTY2VI, don’t do more to help our performing artists.
Sure, CHEK provides live coverage but what about Canada Day here and Symphony Splash? Wouldn’t it be great if at least one of our tv stations broadcast these events live?
Much of their programming consists of nothing we watch, like infomercials, old movies, and dumb and dumber shows.
Who wouldn’t rather watch a live Victoria Symphony and/or Sooke Philharmonic concert? How about a ballet or an opera, or a play from local theatres? I’d love live jazz shows and all kinds of music from local venues.
So many people would benefit, starting with the artists themselves. Ticket sales will increase, especially from tourists, who can view these shows on the internet. Our area will attract other artists. It will be known not only as a place with great natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local food, but a place to see performing artists on par with any great city in the world.
Not everyone can get out to see shows, whether the reasons are financial, geographical, or physical. Think of all the retired folks in nursing homes, for example, who will enjoy Symphony Splash live on television.
The excuse usually given for not broadcasting performing arts is that it negatively impacts ticket sales. On the contrary, when people see the level of talent and professionalism here, ticket sales and funding donations will be higher than ever before.
No doubt the film commission will also see a marked increase in the amount of films and television shows shot locally, as people in the industry, will want to be in a place with lots to do during their off hours.
The Wickininnish Inn was recently voted best resort in Canada, and the Sooke Harbour House was also in the top ten. We need to promote our performing arts and artists with the same or better level of enthusiasm.
I suggest an email campaign to the management of CHEK Victoria and CTY2VI (and Knowedge and TVO as well) if you agree airing concerts and shows is a great way to enrich our lives and support our local talent.
Helene Harrison
Shirley