Deck the ‘Small Halls’ with festive live music this holiday season

November 4, OTTAWA — Ontario Festival of Small Halls organizers today announced that they will be welcoming music fans back to beloved rural venues across Eastern Ontario this holiday season to share the joy of big music in little, festive places.

The Festival is presenting an intimate line-up of heart-warming, holiday performances that will include Juno-award winning artist Kellylee Evans, the undeniable musical talent of Royal Wood, as well as the dynamic Sam Drysdale, and the unforgettable harmonies of Silent Winters.

This year, The Festival of Small Halls is also including a ‘Big Hall’ experience in partnership with the National Arts Centre, where they will present several extraordinary evenings of music featuring Skydiggers; Jill Barber and A Gathering of Friends, including: Matt Mays, Jim Bryson, Amaka Umeh, Ansley Simpson and Charlie Angus; as well as Snowman’s Ball featuring the legendary Matt Andersen with special guests Fortunate Ones and Reeny Smith (details below).

“These intimate holiday shows are a chance to create special moments that turn into treasured holiday memories,” said Anna Wood, General Manager of the Ontario Festival of Small Halls, noting this is the fifth year of bringing holiday-themed performances to cherished venues.

Wood said the intriguing halls and brilliant artists create an unforgettable festive experience. “Take a break from the ‘holiday hectic’ and celebrate community; discover the warmth that these unique places can bring when reveling in authentic award-winning Canadian artists.”

The 2021 Deck the Small Halls Series features:

 Friday, December 3 and Saturday December 4
Skydiggers, Jill Barber and A Gathering of Friends: Matt Mays, Jim Bryson, Amaka Umeh, Ansley Simpson and Charlie Angus – National Arts Centre

Friday, December 10
Royal Wood with Sam Drysdale – Joshua Bates Centre, Athens
Kellylee Evans – Burritts Rapids Community Hall

Saturday, December 11
Silent Winters – Marble Arts Centre, Tweed
Royal Wood with Sam Drysdale – Westmeath Recreation Centre

Sunday, December 12
Royal Wood with Sam Drysdale – St. Andrew’s United Church, Pakenham
Silent Winters – Chaffey’s Lock Community Hall

Saturday, December 18
Snowman’s Ball: Christmas with Matt Andersen and Friends with Fortunate Ones and Reeny Smith – National Arts Centre

Tickets on sale today (November 4) at 11 a.m. Please visit www.ontario small halls.com for more information or to purchase.

Please note that the Ontario Festival of Small Halls will be adhering to all provincial health regulations at the time of the show; including but not limited to mandatory masks, proof of complete vaccination, and advance ticket reservations.