New Westminster to get more concerts on boardwalk next year
The Hyack Festival Association is looking to at least double the number of Concerts on the Quay in 2013 after a successful debut this year.
The association put on two concerts, Aug. 12 and 26, on the boardwalk. Executive director Douglas Smith said the spectators doubled for the second event compared to the first.
“I tried not to set any expectations,” said Smith. “It was very clear there was good word of mouth the second time around. So I think that augurs well for the future.”
He said it would be realistic for the association to expand to four or six concerts next year, and instead of all of them on Sundays (2 to 5 p.m.) they might experiment with Saturday evenings. The association is also contemplating the viability of doing one of the concerts at Westminster Pier Park, although access is a bit of an issue at this point, said Smith.
The first concert featured Dustin Bentall and Kendel Carson, and Warren Dean Flandez, while the Aug. 26 show was headlined by Steve Dawson with David (Boxcar) Gates also performing.
“All in all it went well,” said Smith. “In terms of the production and execution everything went well. We had two really nice days. The music was fabulous, I think people were blown away by the quality of the entertainment. Maybe they haven’t seen that kind of quality of professional musicians in the community.
“The reaction from the community is ‘holy mackerel thank you very much.’ ”
Smith said it was “pretty cool” to be able to provide high-calibre entertainment at no cost to the spectators.
“It really is in alignment in what we’re trying to achieve and that’s present events that appeal to everyone in our city and our region, and give people that might not normally come to the boardwalk something of quality and to showcase our community.”
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