Brampton celebrates its 50th Birthday with the release of the new schedule for Brampton on Stage

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

As the days get longer and warmer, we find ourselves in one of the best times of the year. Birds are chirping, the grass is growing, and the trees are budding; this only means that summer is on the way, and you know what that means: we get to experience the magic of: summer music concerts, outdoor movies, and events. While many people praise Toronto for being the place to be in the summer, there is a city that has quietly become a haven of year-round captivating performances by renowned artists.

That’s right—Brampton is celebrating its 50^th birthday with the release of the new schedule for Brampton on Stage. This program is a vital part of the city, playing a significant role in supporting local artists, organizations, community groups, and curators.

Naturally, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited out, and this time, we had a special treat. Our CEO Trish Browning made her way down to Brampton to attend the Summer and Fall launch of Brampton on Stage. This is the second year that we have been invited, and we want to thank Carrie Libling, and Cristina Rizzuto for having us as part of the launch celebrations.

We are excited to announce that this summer and fall in Brampton will be filled with an array of remarkable events and experiences that promise to delight and inspire both residents and visitors. The team at Brampton on Stage are passionate about curating memorable experiences that resonate deeply with artists and audiences alike. All in attendance on Thursday, May 16^th, 2024, can attest to that.

The launch was a vibrant cornucopia of cultures, bringing together people from all walks of life. As we arrived, the lively strains of live music greeted us, mingling with the laughter and chatter of the crowd. Tables laden with an array of delectable foods tempted our taste buds, and attendees, adorned in colorful spring attire, mingled easily, their spirits high and the mood light.

The gentle aroma of sage wafted through the air, adding a serene touch to the lively atmosphere. Before taking my seat, a beautiful Indigenous woman approached and prayed over me, her presence and words imbued with a profound sense of peace and community—a heartfelt gesture that made the gathering even more special.

The Brampton on Stage team shares a commitment that goes beyond just entertainment; it is about: building a vibrant community, creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome, and fostering meaningful relationships that strengthen our social fabric.

This season, they have an eclectic mix of performances, festivals, and cultural events lined up that cater to diverse tastes and interests. From electrifying live music concerts and captivating theater productions to thought-provoking art exhibitions and community festivals, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.

We believe in the power of the arts to bring people together, to spark conversations, and to create shared experiences that leave lasting impressions. The four venues: The Rose Theatre, Garden Square, LBP, and Cyril Clark are designed to be inclusive, ensuring that every member of our community feels: seen, heard, and valued. Whether you are a seasoned theatergoer, an aspiring artist, or someone looking to explore new cultural horizons, Brampton on Stage is dedicated to providing a platform that celebrates creativity and diversity.

As we look ahead to the coming months, we invite you to join Brampton in celebrating the arts and all they bring to our lives. Stay tuned for more details on their upcoming events by visiting https://tickets.brampton.ca/online/default.asp, and get ready to make unforgettable memories this summer and fall.

One more thing; I want to take a moment to give a special hail out to Brampton’s own Juno Award Winning Kirk Diamond who is the face of the Fall 2024 Brampton on Stage booklet, and who will be performing on November 23^rd, 2024. Make sure to come out and support artists like Kirk who continue to represent their island, their music, their art, and their culture.