“It takes a lot of energy- from the artists’ tent to the mainstage. Lots of planning goes into it, and we have a great time doing it!”
Summer In The City is just around the corner, and excitement is rising for board staff and volunteers.
Steinbach Arts Council’s Executive Director David Klassen is in charge of all things arts for Summer In The City. He shares that 15 years of festivals has given the board quite a bit of insight into what makes for a memorable event.
“So basically, what we know works for this community is to host a great big party in the mainstage compound,” Klassen shares. “You walk through the gates, and you’re going to find a lot of the same favorite experiences there. Not only amazing headliners, as we have every year, but there will be a licensed patio as well. You can get a drink. You can enjoy the show. There’s tons of opening acts lined up. It’s just a great way to spend a summer night.”
In partnership with Trans Canada Brewing Company, guests are invited to be part of the TCB Patio Party, happening during the afternoons. Hang out under an umbrella, grab an ice-cold drink at the fully-licensed patio, and take in the live, local entertainment. Admission is free Friday and Saturday afternoons from 1:00pm to 5:00pm.
“It’s just such a relaxed environment. TCB does such a great job hosting our community. Pull up a chair- it’s the perfect place to unwind.”
Mainstage headliners are the James Barker Band on Friday, and The Titans Of Rock- Bon Jovi and Journey Tribute Artists on Saturday. Afternoon performances are full of local and Manitoban artists. For the full list of afternoon and evening acts, check out the Mainstage page. Gates open at 6:00pm, with the first chords ringing out at 6:15pm.
“We worked hard to bring in the highest quality headliners that we possibly could,” Klassen adds. “Our country artist is top notch this year, and of course our tribute artists come from a really well-respected agency that puts on some amazing shows. There’s a bit of an 80s throwback vibe Saturday night. Nobody is going to be disappointed- it’s going to be fun for everyone.”
As the coming weeks will be filled with double checking every last detail, and counting down the days until the dates open, Klassen acknowledges and sends his appreciation out to everyone who’s putting in hours and working alongside him.
“It is a very big project, and we have a team here who invests a great deal of time, really all year long, working at lining up all of the artists.” Klassen continues. “Not just our headliners, but all of the local performers as well. It really shows itself when you have a really good afternoon of programming, and a really good set of opening bands for the headliners.”
Summer In The City 2024 happens June 14th to 16th on Main Street in Steinbach. Tickets are available on the Summer In The City website as well as in-person at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre, 10 Chrysler Gate in Steinbach.