There have been a lot of spine-tingling moments at Sarnia Sings over the years, says founder Adam Dumond.
And he anticipates more at this year’s annual event showcasing local singers – many of them never seen on stage before.
“There was the year that Danielle Catton, founder of Sarnia Speaks, got on stage and talked about her struggle with anxiety, then knocked our socks off with Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb,” Dumond said.
“I mean, it was an incredible moment, an absolute homerun and a standing ovation.”
Those kinds of standout performances happen every year at Sarnia Sings, according to Dumond.
He launched the event in 2017 and, because it was cancelled three times due to Covid-19, this is the fifth annual show.
Auditions are open to all age groups on Tuesday, Jan. 30 (6 p.m. – 8 p.m.) and Sunday, Feb. 4 (2 p.m. – 5 p.m.) at the Sarnia Library Auditorium. See the Sarnia Sings Facebook page to apply for your chance to impress the judges.
Dozens of hopefuls audition every year. An astonishing 62 auditioned last year and already 38 have signed up for the 2024 show April 20. But only between 15 and 20 are chosen to perform to a usually sold-out audience. Dumond hires Toronto band “Rock Star Live” to accompany the singers, along with Sarnia pianist Dave Thomas.
“They do it all without rehearsals and play any kind of music required. Pop, rock, country or a ballad…the band can do it all with Dave on a grand piano.”
On occasion, Dumond asks a performer back because they please the audience so much. That’s the case with Maria Maola, a local teacher who gets standing ovations every time.
“No one knew she could sing and she was such a great surprise,” he said. “We’re always looking for those pleasant surprises.”
Sarnia Sings has sold out nearly every year and generates about $16,000 that is distributed to the Canadian Mental Health Association, St. Clair Child & Youth, and the Dumond Foundation, which is administered by the Sarnia Community Foundation.
The Dumond Foundation was started so that there will be a fund in perpetuity that supports mental health and suicide prevent.
“Every time we do the show, it’s really stressful because we don’t know how it’s going to go and then we say, ‘Oh, wow. Where did you come from?” Dumond said. “That’s part of the appeal.”
So far, every year has produced those moments that move the audience and make it a special event to attend.
“It’s a win for the audience, a win for the performers and a win for fundraising,” said Dumond.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Sarnia Sings, showcasing local singers and helping charities that focus on mental health and suicide prevention.
WHERE: Imperial Theatre, 168 Christina St.
WHEN: Saturday, April 20
TICKETS: $40. Available at www.imperialtheatre.net or the box office.
AUDITIONS: Jan. 30 and Feb. 4. Apply by filling out the form on the Sarnia Sings Facebook page. All ages welcome. Solo acts, duets and groups.