We were originally invited to perform at a little vegetarian restaurant called The Secret Garden. Everyone who performed there could only gush at what a magical venue it was, and that the owner, Martin Comtois, treated his musicians, staff, and customers, like gold.

Most unfortunately, a couple weeks before our show, The Secret Garden burned down in an electrical fire. So instead, we were there to participate in a benefit concert to help Martin and the other business owners affected by the blaze.

What will always amaze me about this gig is the street festival atmosphere as we drove up. I guess I expected something more somber. But the whole town seemed to be there, walking and chatting in the closed-off streets, children running about, and music coming from the gazebo and from the Arena. The people of Ashcroft really pulled together for this.

We met Martin Comtois and sure enough, all the rumors were true! He is a lovely man. Right away, hugs all around, and he offered to feed us, which we took him up on later. He is one of those people that is true blue, and about the last person you'd ever want to see experience hardship of any kind. We chatted a while before we left to set up to play.

We were scheduled to perform in the gazebo but that all changed when the winds suddenly came up. Sand and tumbleweeds were blowing everywhere, and you could hear the wind whistling in the sound system. Fortunately, the last scheduled performer in the Arena ended at 9 P.M., the time we were supposed to start in the gazebo. So we quickly climbed onto the Arena stage and began our set before the audience knew what hit them! (Before they could leave!)

Tiny cross-section of our Ashcoft Arena audience

There weren't too many filled seats in this huge Arena, but the folks that were there were so enthusiastic, it made our show so much fun! Later, we signed the CDs people bought, as well as the one we gave to a lovely young girl, Danielle, who helped us take pictures of the gig.

Booking Information

Use the email link below or write to:

Steve Elliott & Lucie Walker
PO Box 74153
Hillcrest R.P.O.
Vancouver, BC
V5V 5C8

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