For the past 13 years the Christmas at the Clarke Benefit Concert has been providing an evening of music for families while raising funds for two non-profit organizations.
This year's concert takes place Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. and features a blend of music from the past and present. Canadian singer songwriter Kenny Hess, a favourite whenever he performs throughout North America, will be headlining the show again this year. It's been a tradition of his since the concerts started in 2000. Joining Hess this year is his daughter, Kate who has entertained audiences all over the valley, including the Rockin River festival, and Horizon with a mix of blues, jazz, rock and gospel that will have audiences tapping their feet.
The trio of Sweeet is here for the first time with their eclectic style of music with jazz, blues, soul and Celtic influences. Another inaugural Christmas at the Clarke performer is 19-year-old Emily Harder, whose wonderful voice and relaxed style has put her well on her way to a successful music career.
In addition to the music, there is a silent auction and a large raffle for people to participate in, and before the show begins, the Heritage Park Choir will be mingling in the lobby, singing Christmas carols to help get everyone in the Christmas spirit.
The concert will raise money for the Mission Christmas Bureau and transition houses operated by the Women's Resource Society of the Fraser Valley which provides assistance to women and children who are victims of domestic abuse.
Tickets to the concert at the Clarke Theatre are $18 each, $15 for seniors and students, and $10 for children 12 and under. The concert sells out every year. Tickets are available in Mission at London Drugs, Rex Cox Men’s Wear, English Tarts restaurant, Shoppers Drug Mart, Prospera Credit Union and Fraser Valley Building Supplies, and in Abbotsford at the House of James. For more information or for group tickets, call the show's founder and producer, John Agnew at 604-826-4903 or the Clarke Foundation Theatre at 604-820-3961.