Spring has sprung at Markham Theatre

Spring, of course, brings thoughts of beginnings and rebirth, but in the world of theatre, spring traditionally signals the end of the season. Still, with a month of its Diamond season left, Markham Theatre and acting general manager Scott Hill have quite an incredible month planned.

“April is absolutely rocking,” says Hill, barely able to contain an audible smile. “This April is easily the most high energy and crowd-pleasing collection of performances we’ve ever had to close out a season.”

Kicking off the month, on April 4, the Red Hot Chili Pipers (yes, ‘Pipers’, you read that correctly) bring their pure, authentic, Scottish and Celtic music and turn it up to eleven. Over the last 20 years, they have taken the touring world by storm one audience at a time with their blend of traditional Scottish music with rock and pop anthems, which they proudly call ‘Bagrock’. Don’t be fooled by the name; they are not a Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute act…Their setlist runs an infectious gamut from hyped-up traditional music to the greatest rock songs you’ve ever heard.

“This show is just so very rock and roll,” says Hill.”I mean, it’s still traditional, of course…but it’s a whole other side of the tradition, I think.”

The very next night, tradition is honoured as well, albeit in the world of jazz instead. The Cookers, a jazz band made entirely of iconic, nearly legendary players, takes the stage on April 5. Led by a combined 250 years of experience, Eddie Henderson, David Weiss, Donald Harrison, George Cables, Cecil McBee, and Billy Hart will show you why everybody who has been anybody in jazz (Hancock to Miles; Blakely to DeJohnette) has wanted to play with them. These voices defined post-bop jazz in the late 60s, and they will continue this same mission in Markham this April.

“This is such a great opportunity to see many players of the absolute highest calibre, all in one space,” says Hill. “We love our jazz fans, and we’re so proud to be able to offer this great show.”

Closing out this incredible weekend is the high-energy acrobatics and passion of a Cirque performance unlike any before it. Cirque Kalabante: Afrique en Cirque is a fusion of West African Circus techniques, modern acrobatics, and African Rhythms. Performing two shows on April 6, this family-friendly show promises an unforgettable experience. The show features acrobats executing gravity-defying moves and human pyramids, both visually impressive and culturally rich, all to the contemporary sounds of Afro-Jazz, percussion, and Kora.

“We’ve had a great history of bringing circus or cirque performances from all over the world to the theatre,” says Hill. “Now, we’re excited and proud to showcase techniques and traditions from Africa alongside an incredible soundtrack and with unbelievable performers.”

On April 17, Markham Theatre welcomes a Canadian musical hero back to its stage. The Jim Cuddy Band, of course, features Mr. Cuddy who, with 15 Junos, the Order of Canada, a Governor General Performing Arts Award, a Star on the Walk of Fame, and as a member of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, is easily one of the most decorated Canadian musicians to ever play Markham. This show finds him promoting his latest solo record, All The World Fades Away, a look back at life nearly 3 years in the making. Additionally, the show features an opening set from Jim’s son, Devin Cuddy.

“It’s extremely exciting to be able to have Jim back on our stage,” says Hill.”Talk about a Canadian voice like no other.”

This Diamond Season’s final weekend gets underway on April 24 with the return of the audience favourite Just For Laughs Roadshow. The show will feature a collection of the finest touring comics on the road today. Even though the lineup had not yet been finalized as of the time of publishing, this show has consistently been well loved and regarded as “must see” by many through its many years of Markham performances.

“Just For Laughs is one of the premier comedy organizations in the world,” explains Hill. “Their show never disappoints; it’s always a great night.”

On April 25, Jeans ‘n Classics returns to Markham Theatre. This time, the show is Jeans ‘n Classics: The Who & Led Zeppelin featuring meticulously performed versions of the best songs from the catalogues of The Who and Led Zeppelin. The twist, though, is that Jeans and Classics also adds a symphonic element (a small orchestra) allowing the audience to experience these beloved tunes in a brand new way and from a new perspective.

“These guys have this epic, immense, live sound that you don’t get with most performances,” says Hill. “Between a great band, killer singers, and a chamber orchestra too–it’s unlike anything else. We’re thrilled to have them.”

What better way to close out the season than with a party? This year that party is on April 26 and the host is the inimitable David Wilcox. He’s a master guitar player, an enigmatic and infectious songwriter, a soulful singer, and somehow none of these platitudes ring as true until you have seen him perform in person. A decades-long history of tearing up the circuit between Wasaga Beach and The Kee to Bala has built Wilcox a reputation for performing that most touring musicians can only dream of. Whether it’s Bad Apple, Riverboat Fantasy, Downtown Came Uptown, The Bearcat, Breakfast at the Circus, Layin’ Pipe, or The Natural Edge, his songs live in the Canadian zeitgeist like few others. At a time when many are reconnecting to their love of Canada, this might be the perfect show for the time.

“Wilcox is fun from front to back, and he absolutely exemplifies Canadian Rock music,” Hill says. “We’re excited to welcome him to the theatre for a long overdue debut.”

Spring might be the end of this year’s theatre season, but it certainly has the energy of youth and the promise of what might be for next year.

“I mean, if you like rock, passion, and a great show,” says Hill, “then, welcome to April 2025.”

Visit markhamtheatre.ca for more information.

 

 

Photo: David Wilcox is set to perform on April 26 at Markham Theatre.