Some people say 13 is an unlucky number but ask anyone taking advantage of all the entertainment available in Prince George and you'd rank 2013 very high.
We saw many superstars take to the local stage, including Carrie Underwood, Jerry Seinfeld, Dwight Yoakam, Great Big Sea, and Canadian icon Red Green.
Locally, Judy Russell presented many outstanding productions including Les Miserables, Evil Dead the Musical and The Nutcracker, a traditionally beloved biennial event performed for sellout crowds.
Theatre North West offered a variety of performances including a one-man show called Letter from Wingfield Farm by Dan Needles, and most recently, the sold out Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story by Alan James that saw many local musical stars showcase their talent.
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra began their season with Pops In The Park that offered the audience a free afternoon of Broadway hits and music made popular in the movies. A fun Halloween themed Music and Magic show introduced children to the world of symphonic music and Ode to Joy featured Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and the Youth Concerto competition winner, Sage Bialuski. As always the symphony partnered with Judy Russell to present The Nutcracker, a stunning family tradition showcased at Vanier Hall.
The Prince George Regional Performing Arts Centre asked for a major boost from city council and got it. Although there's no financial commitment, council did vote unanimously to put the centre on the list for the city's priority capital projects, and city staff will report back to council with information about a budget and potential funding sources. Good news for many wishing to have a performing arts centre in the downtown core.
The Prince George & District Community Arts Council, as always, supports artisans throughout the region. In 2013 their two major annual events, the Spring Arts Bazaar and Studio Fair were popular events showcasing many talented artisans' wares and offering a unique opportunity for residents to purchase one-of-a-kind original artwork. The arts council also partnered with other community members to present events throughout the community. Street Spirits Theatre and the arts council came together to bring awareness to HIV/AIDS with workshops and a social action play called Blood, Sweat, Tears & Laughter, addressing many issues about the disease.
Looking ahead to 2014, Prince George already has The Band Perry, Hedley, The Steve Miller Band, Florida Georgia Line and George Thorogood and the Destroyers scheduled to perform.
