The Barra MacNeils performed in Estevan on Saturday night as part of the Estevan Arts Council Concert Series, bringing their East Coast Christmas tour to the city.
Stuart MacNeil reflected on the tour, saying, “We’ve been doing this Christmas tour for close to a quarter-century now. It’s really a fan favourite, and we have a lot of fun with it.”
The East Coast Christmas tour, which began Nov. 15 in Vancouver, covers 40 shows across Canada and concludes Dec. 23 in Pictou, N.S. The tour has been running for nearly 25 years.
“It’s not just a Christmas show; it’s a show about Cape Breton culture and Canadiana, especially in the humorous bits,” MacNeil said.
He noted that fans’ reactions vary across the country but highlighted the special nature of shows in their home region, particularly in Halifax and Glace Bay. “I’m just blown away that people will come to see a Christmas show in the middle of November,” he said.
MacNeil also emphasized the show’s uniqueness, featuring multi-instrumentalists and traditional Gaelic and English songs. “It’ll take you everywhere from a Cape Breton kitchen party to midnight mass.”
He reflected on the joy of sharing music with Canadian audiences, especially this year, where wintry weather has helped set the perfect festive mood. Stuart closed by wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
“It certainly makes our job that much easier when you’re coming to the theatre, and it feels like Christmas.”