The composer and producer of the production, Allen Desnoyers, a parishioner at St. David, Tsawwassen is delighted with the prospect of returning to Abbotsford. He writes:
"After two years of COVID cancellations, our first performances of the musical, Pier 21 were at the Matsqui Auditorium, hosted by MHSBC. Introduced by a descendant of Ukrainian immigrants, the show felt particularly resonant as the musical includes Ukrainian characters escaping the oncoming war in Poland. Twelve days after this performance, Putin invaded Ukraine. Since that time, Pier 21 has been involved in fundraisers to support incoming Ukrainian refugees, most recently in Winnipeg with Oseredok, to raise money for English language classes. Pier 21 includes the story of a War bride who plays music to overcome hardship. This October, Pier 21 returns to the Matsqui with Anna Sagalova, a world class classical pianist from Ukraine, who will perform a short recital after the show. A portion of the proceeds will be directed to restore Anna’s alma mater, Kharkiv University of Arts, which was damaged by bombing."
Another performance is scheduled for November 10 at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in East Vancouver. More details forthcoming.
Please find linked here and below a letter of thanks from the Oseredok Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre.
Pier 21 has received coverage in diocesan comms in the past. Here links to past articles. June 24, 2019 and April 6, 2022
The promotional poster for the Matsqui performance is linked here.
Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door
Available online through Eventbrite or in person at King’s Music, Abbotsford.