Maggie’s Wake is a Canadian contemporary folk group, creating a new traditional sound. Blending high twang, classic country with fresh jigs and reels, Cajun twin fiddles and reggae rhythms, their music is an original, genre-hopping adventure that is constantly evolving.
United in their passion for fiery tunes, soaring vocals with rich harmonies, meaningful stories, and beautiful melodies, Maggie’s Wake embraces their wide-ranging influences and has built an exciting, new sound.
The band features award-winning songwriter and musician Tara Dunphy (The Rizdales, Luther Wright and the Wrongs) on tin whistle, flute, fiddle, guitar, banjo, and lead vocals, and award-winning musician Lindsay Schindler (Rant Maggie Rant, Trent Severn) on fiddle and vocals. The powerhouse backing band includes Stephan Szczesniak on percussion, Andrew Kosty on bass, Dean Harrison on piano and accordion, and Kenneth Palmer on guitar.
2024 Canadian Folk Music Award nominees Moonfruits craft contemporary folk that addresses our collective humanity with heart, wit, and wonder. Led by partners Alex Millaire and Kaitlin Milroy, Moonfruits pen songs in both French and English, a reflection of their bilingual lived experience in their hometown of Ottawa.
Theirs is the music of open-minded dreamers and diligent doers, confronting dehumanizing capitalism and environmental catastrophe with a rousing message of solidarity.
Tragedy Ann is a compassion project from Guelph, Ontario. When they write songs together, Liv Cazzola & Braden Phelan evoke humanizing questions with pump organ, singing saw, guitar, and accordion. In harmony, their voices sensitively tread between the impossible fragility of bent porcelain and the nuanced joy of torn fabric, lovingly mended.
Leading with curiosity, empathy, and charm, Cazzola & Phelan share vignettes inside stories inside songs – compelling listeners to consider community in ways that feel both familiar and audaciously forward-looking.
Formed in the heart of eastern Ontario, The Plowboys are a tight-knit group of musicians brought together by their love for traditional country tunes.
With roots deeply embedded in the rich soil of classic country sounds, they’ve cultivated a signature style that pays homage to the legends that paved the way while adding their own unique flair. The Plowboys’ repertoire is a musical harvest of classic country hits and original compositions, all delivered with a passion that can only come from the heart.
From toe-tapping honky-tonk numbers by Buck Owens and Ray Price to soulful ballads from Merle Haggard and Jim Reeves, their performances are a journey through the timeless landscapes of country storytelling.
To kick off our 30th season of delivering exceptional Canadian and International talent to our small-town stage, we are proud to present a special anniversary show featuring The Devin Cuddy Band.
The Devin Cuddy Band is a Toronto-based roots and country rock band. This Juno-nominated band has taken their sound across Canada, the US, and Europe.
Led by the rollicking piano playing of lead singer Devin Cuddy (son of Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy), their sound will take you on a journey through the history of Blues, Country, and folk-rock music, and will be sure to get you out of your seat and onto your feet.
Erica Brighthill is a star on the rise!! YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS her debut at JBC.
Influenced by strong, empowering country woman such as Shania Twain and Carrie Underwood, Erica aspires to influence young women worldwide through her brand of authentic and empowering country music.
Garnering recognition & impressive accolades and sharing stages with multiple Juno and CCMA award winner Dallas Smith and with The Rivertown Saints, Erica has captivated audiences all over Ontario and Quebec — from RBC Bluesfest to the Diamond in the Rough New Artist showcase at CCMA week 2023.
Dan has been singing his whole life, and he has earned the title of Country Artist of the Year at the 2024 Ottawa Faces Awards show.
Locally, Dan has performed at the Soundcheck Summer Jam, and his song “One Day” has become a popular wedding song.
Come out and hear 2 fantastic singer/songwriters perform on the Joshua Bates Centre stage
Come join us for a night full of high energy, and packed full of fun, as we welcome Kelli Trottier to the JBC stage.
Kelli’s shows run the gamut of barn-burning Celtic instrumentals, to Western Swing, Country and everything in between! Throw in a little step dancing into the mix, and our audience is in for an exciting and entertaining show suitable for all ages.
Join us for an evening of empowering entertainment, as a group of great Canadian women sing songs, and pay tribute to some other great Canadian women.
Including the songs of Celine Dion, Buffy Sainte Marie, Avril Lavigne, Anne Murray, Chantal Kreviazuk, k.d. lang, Jann Arden, Sarah McLachlan and more...
The Joshua Bates Centre is set to kick off our 29th season with a bang on Saturday September 21st, 2024, and we hope you’ll be in the audience to join us, as we welcome Saskatchewan’s own Jake Vaadeland & The Sturgeon River Boys to the stage. Fresh off a US/UK tour, Jake will roll into town for a special one night only performance.
Jake Vaadeland strives to write and play songs that tell stories through his music and are easily relatable to his audience. Jake is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, blending Bluegrass and 50’s Rockabilly, all packaged in a foot-stomping, high-energy performance that our JBC audience won’t soon forget!
Sam Polley says, “our sound is a mix of the ‘50s and ‘60s, and everything that time entailed…rock, pop, country, a bit of soul.... I wanted to make upbeat music, fun to play and would create a fun atmosphere around us. I am lucky that I am in a profession where I can create a good time.”
What others say is that it is “a vibrant, assured sound that leaves listeners wanting for more.” Fans who have seen them perform at such venues as the famed Mariposa Folk Festival, GTA’s Cameron House and Moonshine Café, Hillside Festival, Alberta’s Canmore Folk Festival and many others, have said, “entertaining and great set list..easily memorable songs and great personalities…Catch them if you can.” “Sam’s seriously ‘got it’. If you haven’t seen him live yet, GET THERE NOW… Sam is next Gen, and he’s got it RIGHT!”
'Next generation' is correct, as Sam is the son of famed singer Jim Cuddy and actress Rena Polley and younger brother to singer Devon Cuddy. Sam has learned from the best. He and The Old Tomorrows are sure to please!!
2022 Juno-nominated Miss Emily has spent 20+ years honing her skills as a soul/rock/pop/blues performer. From her home base in Kingston to New York City, Ottawa Bluesfest, Bobcageon’s festival with 30,000 in attendance, Westport’s The Cove (in New Jersey) — where she sang a few songs with Bruce Springsteen — and now to the intimate Joshua Bates Centre, the dynamo Miss Emily is wowing crowds wherever she appears.
Her Live at the Isabel garnered her a 2022 Juno nomination, a rarity for a live album. In 2020 Miss Emily won a triple crown of Female Vocalist, New Artist and Sapphire Blues Video at the Maple Blues Awards.
Be sure to be in the audience to experience the electrifying, roof-rattling performance of Miss Emily and her musician.
This play is a gripping and comedic tribute to Canadian World War I fighter pilot, Ontarian Billy Bishop. This beloved show won the 1982 Governor General’s Literary Award for Drama and remains one of the most critically acclaimed Canadian musical plays of all time.
Matt Evans portrays the legendary flying ace, Bishop, as well as other characters. His co-pilot is musician Michael Mulrooney, who uses a piano to score battle scenes, taking us from bar rooms to ball rooms, capturing both humour and heartstrings.
“Dear Matt … your rendition of Billy Bishop Goes to War … the best one I have ever seen. It was a great tribute to my grandfather! I completely forgot that you were an actor and felt I was actually watching my grandfather. You were superb.” — Diana Bishop
Athens is honoured to welcome this play that will have you laughing and crying throughout the performance.
This quartet returns to our theatre, from California, with their brand of 50’s 60’s music. They perform all your favourite hits of that era, plus originals written in the same vein. Their current EP, Sweet Nothings, may be heard on Spotify.
Here's what people are saying:
“It was truly the best stage presence I have seen in a very long time. It was the kind of performance that made you want to kick off your shoes and get loose.” —OPJAM.Blog
“I think they’re the best rock n’ roll group – my old style of rock n’ roll – I've ever seen. These boys have got a show, they’re young and they’re getting it official.” —Ronnie Hawkins, Legendary American Rockabilly Artist
“This is, without a doubt, the most exciting band that I’ve seen in decades!” —Robbie Lane, Radio Host and Canadian Musician
The Abrams first played in our theatre in 2007, and we are excited to see their return on April 27, 2023! Brothers John and James Abrams, fourth-generation touring musicians, have literally toured the world and, at their young ages, have 20 years of performing under their belts. These Warner Records artists play with explosive energy that draws you right in to the performance and leaves you wanting more.
The Abrams are multi-award winning, having been recognized in their home country of Canada and in the United States. They performed on the Grand Ole Opry and were ambassadors for peace, through music, in the Middle East. Many milestones were achieved before they reached the age of majority!
John and James do not remember a time that country music, the fiddle and guitar, were not part of the fibre of their being. Over these past 20 years their songwriting and stage presence have evolved into the lively show that we will enjoy in April. Come out and be entertained!
Séan McCann is bringing his east coast musical roots to Athens keeping the St. Patrick’s Day celebration rolling with his Shantyman tunes. This is music at its purest, a man, his guitar, stories and songs, all from a Newfoundlander who now calls Ontario home.
Grab your friends and come out for a great time. You will likely end up singing along!
What a treat we have in store for this show! For the one ticket price, you will hear six artists perform.
Included in the lineup:
Athenian Katie Baker, accompanied by Mark Bergman. Katie is no stranger to Athens area audiences. Katie’s smooth, pop-infused vocals, backed by Mark’s excellent musicianship, are sure to please.
Pat Johnson is well known for his bluesy, country roots singing, along with his world-class guitar picking. With Pat will be fiddler extraordinaire, Billy MacInnis. Billy, former fiddler for Stompin’ Tom, hails from PEI but makes Brockville home now.
Jessica Lavallee, originally from the east coast, also now calls Brockville home. Like true traditional sounding country? You will love Jessica.
James King, from North Augusta, brings rock n roll to the show. His full-length album, Moonchild is out now
Our theatre seldom has tribute shows, but after hearing Dean Young singing, we were hooked! We think the following reviews say it all:
“The five-man band is phenomenal. Their musicality was impressive. The harmonies were melodious and sharp. Each member could sing and play multiple instruments. The last song of the regular set was 'Hotel California.' The audience sang along as the song progressed. A two-song encore followed the cheering end to the regular set.” ... Louise Smith, Brome Fair News
“They are amazing. I am a huge Eagles fan, these guys are the real deal!! Epic Eagles is a great band and nail it!!” ... Linda Albertyn, Bolton Midnight Madness
“The harmonies on hit after hit from the first song to the last had our crowd singing along the whole evening. We’ve already had requests for us to have them back.” ... Bobby Orr, Event Chairman, Brockville Ribfest.
Naomi Bristow is no stranger to Athens. Naomi first appeared at Athens United Church when she was 15 years old. She so impressed the crowd of classic country lovers that she came back two more times.
Naomi has five albums, some of which include duets with Vince Gill, Jim Ed Brown and Richard Sterban of the Oak Ridge Boys. Four of her awards are “Fans Choice” at Havelock Jamboree, “Rising Star” at the BC Cowboy Heritage Festival, “Youth Yodeler of the Year” from The Western Music Association, and “Best Traditional Yodel Album of the Year” from the National Traditional Country Music Association of the United States. Yes, Naomi is a yodeler too!
She appeared on Breakfast Television, YTV and the American television channel, RFD. Naomi has graced the stage at the famed Nashville Palace and opened for Gene Watson, Bill Anderson and Gordie Tapp. Recently, she toured Canada as part of the Scott Woods show.
Naomi is sure to capture your heart. We can hear our audience asking in the future, “when is Naomi coming back to Athens?” Be part of the audience on April 28, 2022 to find out why.
Healy & Orr have been entertaining area music lovers for over 25 years. Their longevity is a result of the way they make each performance a party!
These three talented men are Randal Orr and Doug Healy slinging guitars and Anastasios Basiliadis beating the drums. They say that they will get your “toes tappin’ and butts wigglin.’ ”
Fans have said:
“You guys are awesome. What a fantastic night.”
“Can’t wait to have you back.”
“Great band. Very professional.”
We say that if you want to forget your troubles and enjoy an evening of a variety of musical genres, including country and classic rock, come out to see Healy & Orr on March 26, 2022.
The Abrams first played in our theatre in 2007, and we are excited to see their return on January 7, 2022! Brothers John and James Abrams, fourth generation touring musicians, have literally toured the world and, at their young ages, have 20 years of performing under their belts. These Warner Records artists play with explosive energy that draws you right in to the performance and leaves you wanting more.
The Abrams are multi-award winning, having been recognized in their home country of Canada and in the United States. They performed on the Grand Ole Opry and were ambassadors for peace, through music, in the Middle East. Many milestones were achieved before they reached the age of majority!
John and James do not remember a time that country music, the fiddle and guitar, were not part of the fibre of their being. Over these past 20 years their songwriting and stage presence have evolved into the lively show that we will be enjoy in January.
After being silent for almost two years, our theatre will come to life with The Abrams as the first act in our new series. Come out and be entertained!
Please note the COVID-19 protocols that will be adhered to for this show.
The concert of Dean Young and Band has had to be cancelled.
A country singer songwriter from the Niagara region, Dean was raised in a musical family and was showcasing his talents at square dances by the age of three. Song writing has always been a part of Dean's life and although his writing covers many genres it's country music that continues to draw his heart as that was the foundation of his youth.
Dean has performed on a local, national and international level to audiences ranging from 200 to 60,000 all over North America, Japan and Mexico. He feels fortunate to have shared the stage with acts such as REO Speedwagon, Gretchen Wilson and The Bellamy Brothers. Dean's music has garnered Canada wide airplay on radio stations, SiriusXM and iHeartRadio.
Dean's music is described as a twist of modern with classic country sounds and carries meaningful messages to listeners about the important things in life.
Website: Dean Young and BandCash bar and dance area!Buy Tickets here
We are sorry to advise that this event has been cancelled, due to the COVID-19 Virus. For ticket refunds or exchanges, please call Diane at 613 924 1947.Matt Zaddy is the kind of songwriter you feel you have known your whole life.
He describes his music as “honest, passionate, soulful – a blend of folk, rhythm and blues and rock n roll that tells the story of who I am and the road that lead me here.” Others have these words:
“Matt's wonderful vocals and amazing guitar skills blend into beautiful melodies that evoke many different emotions in the listener”
“We are in awe of Matt Zaddy's immense talent”
“the flawless set was a testament to his passion for songwriting and creating reflective, genuine music that resonated with the whole crowd.”
Zaddy, a highly sought after performer, hits our stage with a 5-piece band ready to entertain.
Website: Matt ZaddyBuy tickets here
Composer, writer, comedian and Second City alumnus, Randy Vancourt performs his strange-but-true one-man musical comedy about the travails of a traveling musician. As an entertainer he may be the only performer to be both a cast member of the famed Second City and a puppeteer with The Muppets. As a syndicated humour columnist his work appears in periodicals across Canada.
The reviews are in:
“A dynamic stage presence”
“Kept the audience in stitches”
“Plenty of musical dexterity”
“Vancourt twinkles the keys at supersonic speed”
“Full of funny and witty stories”
“Funny quips, endearing stories and expert piano playing”
“consummate talents as comedian, songwriter and musician shine through every moment”
The Dreamboats are bringing back good ol' fashioned Rock n' Roll!
With a sound that is equal parts Chuck Berry & The Wonders, this quartet of handsome young Canadian boys delivers a high energy, nostalgic show that has audiences dancing and singing the night away!
After international tours in Europe and California, the young, energetic Dreamboats are ready to bring their show to Ontario and dazzle audiences with their favourite jukebox classics, mixed with their award winning music inspired by the 50s and 60s sound they adore. Hear their tales about performing at the legendary Cavern Club in Liverpool, England (where the Beatles cut their teeth); how Rock n' Roll came to Canada, first-hand, from the legendary Ronnie Hawkins; and swimming in Elvis Presley's pool!
The Dreamboats are bringing this timeless music forward for an older generation to remember and a younger generation to discover.
Cash bar and dance area!Dreamboats websitePurchase tickets here
Spidey has captivated the minds of people around the world with his tours across North America, eight international TV shows and 11+ million online viewers.
Spidey has performed on the stages of the Las Vegas Rio Casino and the iconic NYC Apollo Theatre. He was named US Mentalist of the Year 2017 (despite being Canadian!) and has performed for major celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Steve Harvey, Simon Cowell, Neil Patrick Harris, Penn&Teller and many more.
Spidey will perform his much-anticipated mind-reading show that has been a success on NBC’s TODAY Show, TMZ and Rachael Ray! He joined the cast of CW’s Masters of Illusionand his new NETFLIX Original Series: Brainchild is being watched in 21 countries! Spidey’s other TV appearances include FOX’s Showtime at the Apollo with Steve Harvey, Discovery Channel, Entertainment Tonight and many more. He promises to bring his popular TV tricks to the Joshua Bates Centre. A magical journey that taps into your every emotion. Spidey presents a mind-blowing and hilarious MAKE BELIEVE performance. He’ll freak you out with his eerie mental demonstrations bordering on the supernatural!
PEOPLE Magazine:“You’re a WICKED SORCERER!”
US Weekly: “That was the ULTIMATE MAGIC TRICK!”
TODAY Show:“SEE it to BELIEVE it!”Penn&Teller: “You KILLED us with that trick! BRILLIANT!”
Entertainment Tonight: “He’ll DEFINITELY leave you in AWE!”
The Jordy Jackson Band is an up and coming high energy country band from Kingston. Best known for their original music, fan favourite covers, and electric live performances, the band has earned their way into such country festivals in Ontario as the Tweed Stam-pede, Trackside Music Festival, and the Havelock Jamboree. Jordy also entertained the crowd in Athens at the Country in the Park in 2017.
The Jordy Jackson Band's original music is best described as fun, upbeat, and relatable. With a rocky twist on a traditional sound, it makes for a truly original experience and has landed their recent single “Canadian Redneck” spins on local country radio stations.
The band's performance will include both acoustic and energetic songs providing country music for all members of our audience. Come and check out a great band performing in our theatre.
Purchase tickets here
We are honoured to bring our audience a show like none other we have ever presented. Carl will present a night of musical selections with stories and narrative with video accompaniment.
Carl Dixon, a man of titanium, rock and soul, is touring “Whole 'Nother Thing”, his debut country album which is raw, honest and a whole new sound for one of Canada's most respected rock musicians. Rock fans will remember Carl in Coney Hatch, Triumph, April Wine and The Guess Who where he was, for eight years, the lead singer.
As a result of a horrific car accident, in Australia in April 2008, Carl spent eight years in recuperation.
Carl's powerful vocals, artistry and stage presence combined with his inspirational story, make this a show you do not want to miss. Check out his website for more of Carl's accomplishments. They are too numerous to list here.
Purchase tickets here.Video link here.
Abby Stewart, a 17 year old singer/songwriter from Kingston, feels most at home on the music stage achieving some impressive success in her budding career.
She has opened for Hunter Hayes, Tebey, Michelle Wright, Emerson Drive, Tim Hicks and three times for Brett Kissel. Abby has sung duets with Dean Brody, Dallas Smith and Aaron Pritchett and has performed at Boots & Hearts, Havelock Jamboree, Ottawa Bluesfest, Trackside Music Festival, Spencerville Stampede, and the CNE stage.
Locally, she has performed at The Grand Theatre, Kingston and headlined the DFIA festival in Brockville. Abby released her EP “Firsts” in 2015 which included her radio release “I'm Still Faster”, followed by her first video which has over 250,000 views on YouTube.
Purchase tickets here.
“True country music from the 50’s and 60’s with crying steel guitar, heartbreak harmonies and Rhinestone suits, just as nature intended.” The Rhinestone Plowboys members are a who’s who of talented musicians known to country fans in Eastern Ontario:
Freddy Vette – vocals, lead and rhythm guitar, harmonica and piano who is well known for his charismatic performances
Al Brisco – steel guitar who also performs in Caroll Baker’s band
Al Torrance – lead and rhythm guitar, mandolin, and vocals who you know from Tom Wilson Band and H&S Express
Brad Baldwin – drums
Jim Haggerty – electric and upright bass and vocals
Come hear them perform the music of Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Hank Snow, Ray Price and more of your classic country favorites. This show is sure to please. Tickets
Sean McCann’s love for Newfoundland and Labrador folk songs shot him to international fame as a founding member of the renowned group Great Big Sea. After huge success and record breaking world tours, Sean decided to leave the band after 20 years and made his way to Manotick. Sean says “I would rather have the exchange that can happen in a room of 300 people or less. Eyes on eyes, singing together. I believe there’s power in that interaction…”.
In 2014, his first post-GBS album, “Help Your Self” helped him deal with his demons and connect with many new and old fans in more intimate venues. The next CD, “You Know I Love You” is a “happy collection of songs sung by a man intent on sharing his joy directly with you”.
Come and enjoy an intimate evening with Sean and his music. Tickets
Country evening with George Fox, The Good Brothers, Beverley Mahood
Oct. 17, 2003
Roger James, with opening act Pat Johnson
Feb. 6, 2004
Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers
Apr. 27, 2004
Wingfield’s Folly
September 28, 2000
Tom Wilson
October 20, 2000
Haines & Leighton
January 12, 2001
Broadway Bound: An Evening With Jean-Paul
March 30, 2001
Talking Heads
October 25, 1999
Athens Community Theatre
November 12&13, 1999
A.D.H.S. Christmas Concert
December 15, 1999
Sneezy Waters
January 14, 2000
Johnny Reid
February 10, 2000
Cindy Thompson
March 9, 2000
Lorne Elliott
April 6, 2000
Tom Lewis
May 5, 2000
Phoebe Jean
September 18, 1998
Wingfield’s Progress
October 20, 1998
Broadway and Beyond
November 21, 1998
Celtic Offspring
February 27, 1999
Heather Bishop
April 8, 1999
A.D.H.S.
May 27, 1999
Maggie’s Wake is a Canadian contemporary folk group, creating a new traditional sound. Blending high twang, classic country with fresh jigs and reels, Cajun twin fiddles and reggae rhythms, their music is an original, genre-hopping adventure that is constantly evolving.
2024 Canadian Folk Music Award nominees Moonfruits craft contemporary folk that addresses our collective humanity with heart, wit, and wonder. Led by partners Alex Millaire and Kaitlin Milroy, Moonfruits pen songs in both French and English, a reflection of their bilingual lived experience in their hometown of Ottawa.
Formed in the heart of eastern Ontario, The Plowboys are a tight-knit group of musicians brought together by their love for traditional country tunes.
To kick off our 30th season of delivering exceptional Canadian and International talent to our small-town stage, we are proud to present a special anniversary show featuring The Devin Cuddy Band.