Booking Blue Rodeo to perform at a high-profile event in Ottawa should be a sure-fire thing, at least in terms of attracting spectators and ensuring a top-notch performance.

After all, the band is one of Canada’s most enduring, with more than two decades of hits and a strong following in the Ottawa area. What’s more, their latest disc, the double The Things We Left Behind, is one of their best albums in years, recently long-listed for Canada’s Polaris Prize. Although it didn’t make it to the short list of nominees, even long-list recognition is a rare feat for an established act with major-label backing as most of the contenders for the $20,000 Polaris purse tend to be young and independent.

At the National Capital Equestrian Park on Saturday, all the factors were in place for a big outdoor concert with the rootsy country rockers, sort of a west-end Woodstock for the horsey set. There was a massive stage, powerful sound system and cool lights, plus porta potties and beer tents, all set up in the vast field off Corkstown Road between Bells Corners and Kanata, the same field where Perth’s Ian Millar earned the top prize in the show-jumping events earlier that day. It took a half-hour or so of shovel work to clean up after the horses and prepare for the fans.

The one element that organizers couldn’t control was the weather. Cool temperatures and a thunderstorm warning kept the hoped-for numbers down. Close to 10,000 people made it to the show, but there was probably room for twice as many.

After a tasty opening set by Toronto roots-rockers Staggered Crossing, many folks were still in their cars, lined up to get into the parking lot from the one access road. Everyone seemed to arrive at the same time, approximately 15 minutes before showtime.

Of course, once Blue Rodeo took the stage, parking frustrations were forgotten and the challenge was to keep warm, which wasn’t too difficult because the laidback vibe of the music seemed to draw the crowd closer, as if gathering around a campfire.

As longtime fans will know, a Blue Rodeo concert can be mellow or rocking, spacey or straightforward, sometimes with either Jim Cuddy or Greg Keelor occupying the spotlight. On Saturday, it was mostly a mellow acoustic show with Cuddy taking the lead role.

For many fans, especially women, that’s the best kind of Blue Rodeo concert. Cuddy is the tall, good-looking half of the singing and songwriting duo, the one with the sweet voice who churns out an endless string of breezy love songs. The band kicked off with a pair of them, Cynthia and It Could Happen to You, before switching gears to Fools Like You, one of Keelor’s darker, political tunes, which is built around the chorus, “Stop stealing Indian land.”

Behind them, the band was in peak form, with multi-instrumentalist Bob Egan and keyboardist Michael Boguski filling out the melodies with free-ranging solos that supplied musical colour and texture.

From the latest album, highlights included One More Night, Don’t Let The Darkness in Your Head and Candace, while back-catalogue standouts included the extended Five Days In May, as well as What Am I Doing Here, Trust Yourself, Head Over Heels and a gorgeous version of Try that showcased Cuddy’s still-incredible voice. Although Cuddy just performed with his solo band at the Ottawa Folk Festival last weekend, it seems Ottawa fans never get tired of his music.

It was Keelor who dominated the home stretch, letting the crowd take over the singing on Hasn’t Hit Me Yet, followed by an encore that included the gems Til I Am Myself and Lost Together. In all, it was a stellar performance.

© Copyright (c) The Ottawa Citizen

Original article from: http://www.ottawacitizen.com/sports/Review+Blue+Rodeo+delivers+mellow+acoustic/3429434/story.html#ixzz0xN89ZpxO

This year’s event will see two international tournaments held back to back, August 11-15 and August 18-22, capped off with a live concert on Saturday night, August 21, with Canadian recording artists, Blue Rodeo.

A press conference was held to officially open the event, which will see approximately 550 horses competing over the two-week event. The panel of speakers included Sir Terry Matthews, owner of the Brookstreet Hotel; 2008 Olympic Silver Medalist Ian Millar; grand prix competitor Keean White of Angelstone Productions; Jay Hayes, Co-Chair of the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament; and Event Coodinator, Ainsley Hayes.

“What a great event!” raved Matthews, sponsor of the $75,000 Brookstreet Grand Prix on Sunday, August 15, beginning at 2 p.m. “There is great visibility from the Queensway, Ottawa’s major traffic artery. People driving by see the colourful striped tents and wonder, ‘Hey, what’s that?’ It’s all about having a little fun. This is what this event is all about, families in Ottawa having a little fun! It’s wonderful to be here, and to have Brookstreet sponsor this event.”

Angelstone Productions will sponsor the $75,000 Angelstone Productions Grand Prix on Saturday, August 21, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Immediately following the featured show jumping event, the public will be invited on to the grand prix field to enjoy a live intimate performance by Blue Rodeo with special guests, Staggered Crossing. Open to the public, tickets for the Blue Rodeo concert are available at www.CapitalTickets.ca.

“We are so excited to have Blue Rodeo here, not just because it will be a great performance, but also to attract a new crowd to come see the sport of show jumping,” said White of his innovative venture. “We want it to be an event that the whole family can come to and enjoy, to see the horses, enjoy some great entertainment, and have a good time.”

Millar, a nine-time Olympian based nearby in Perth, ON, said, “The location is just perfect; it’s so visible and so accessible. To bring top show jumping to Ottawa, it’s incredible, so close to home! Without the Hayes family’s hard work, this just wouldn’t happen. They are too humble about all the work that they have done.”

Jay Hayes, who Co-Chairs the event with his wife, Shawn, is pleased to bring something new and exciting to the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament in its third consecutive year.

“Keean has come up with a really brilliant idea, to bring a rock group to a sporting event,” Hayes said. “I was traveling back from a competition in the United States and saw that a major league baseball team had decided to bring in a concert event, and I thought, ‘If baseball can do it, why not show jumping?’ We are so looking forward to having Blue Rodeo.”

As for the logistics of the competition itself, staged in a venue that Hayes Co rents for only a few weeks of the year, Hayes noted, “We have had a lot of rain, which has made all of our grass rings look so beautiful, but unfortunately also sometimes causes problems, but I think we have found a solution to the drainage problems for this year.

“We have such a great team of people here, and we could not have done it without them,” he added.

His daughter and Event Coordinator, Ainsley Hayes, commented, “We are so happy to be back. We are off to a great start, everything is running really smoothly, and it was wonderful to wake up to photos of our event on the front page of the Ottawa Citizen! All of the feedback from the community has been amazing. We couldn’t have done it without the help of our sponsors, especially Terry Matthews and Keean White.”

The two-week show jumping tournament will take place from August 11-15 and 18-22 at the Nepean National Equestrian Park, conveniently located at the 417 Queensway and Moodie Drive. The first week of competition, running August 11-15, is highlighted by Sunday’s $75,000 Brookstreet Grand Prix. Other featured events include the $10,000 Open Welcome, the $10,000 Modified Grand Prix, the $5,000 Jump Canada Hunter Derby, the Young Horse Series regional final, and Jump Canada Talent Squad competition. FEI ‘O’ course designer Guilherme Jorge of Brazil will set the tracks throughout the week on the grand prix field, widely considered to be one of the best grass jumping fields in North America.

The second week, August 18-22, will see Catsy Cruz of Mexico taking over course design duties. In addition to Saturday’s $75,000 Angelstone Productions Grand Prix, highlights include the $10,000 CompetitiveJumpers.com Open Welcome on Thursday and Friday’s $15,000 ATCO Derby.

For more information on the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament, please visitwww.hayesco.ca

Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
www.startinggate.ca Copyright © SIRC

Original article from: http://www.sirc.ca/news_view.cfm?id=36693

I have good news and bad news about Ottawa’s music calendar.

The good news is there’s a ton of concerts coming.

The bad news is most of them probably won’t be very good, although I’m prepared to be surprised.

Sting’s coming to Scotiabank Place this Sunday. Accompanied by the impressive-sounding Royal Philharmonic Symphony orchestra, the former Police frontman will perform classical stringed versions of Police hits such as Roxanne, Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic and Every Breath You Take, as well as songs from Sting’s enduring solo career including Englishman in New York, If I Ever Lose My Faith in You and Fields of Gold. I bet this one gets tired fast. Am I going? No sir, not at up to $150+ a ticket.

I have a confession to make. I can’t stand Black Eyed Peas. I think they’re shameless musical copyists who reduce musical genres into a stereotypes the way McDonalds makes hamburgers. Nonetheless, it should be a sold-out show when they play Scotiabank Place on Aug. 1.

Even though I don’t like country music, and look absolutely ridiculous in cowboy boots and hats, I’m looking forward to the 2010 Capital Hoedown at Rideau-Carlton Raceway Aug. 5-7. Three of country’s biggest stars — Dwight Yoakam, Alan Jackson and Vince Gill — headline, and you can’t beat country music fans when it comes to making their own fun.

Meanwhile, there’s something fundamentally wrong about Michael Buble playing Scotiabank Place on Aug. 7. No doubt about it, he’s a talented singer, a charismatic ladies man and gymnastic performer, but what’s a 30-something-year-old doing pretending to be a Rat Packer inside a cavernous hockey arena? With his big voice and rapport with the audience, Buble should be at the National Arts Centre. The venue’s wrong, and Buble’s act is starting to get a little tired. Pass.

It’s been a busy summer for Hollywood celebs doing rock and roll with Kevin Bacon and Kevin Costner at Bluesfest. Now, it’s Natural Born Killer actress Juliette Lewis’ turn. She has a nice voice and the same skanky rocker-chick quality that Courtney Love has, but I’m not sure if it carries through into her songwriting and live performance. This could be an excellent vanity project, or an intentional train wreck. Lewis plays Maverick’s on Aug. 12.

Just when you think you couldn’t stand another Blue Rodeo concert because you’ve seen them every year at Bluesfest, the veteran band surprise you with something different. This time, it’s their new album The Things We Left Behind, which is easily their best, most musically focused record in 10 years. Don’t be fooled by Jim Cuddy’s show at the Ottawa Folk Festival on Aug. 15. The show I’m looking forward to is Blue Rodeo’s gig at the Nepean National Equestrian Park on Aug. 21.

Finally, teen idol Justin Bieber is coming to Scotiabank Place on Aug. 24. I’m going to call in sick that day. Write yer own reviews.

denis.armstrong@sunmedia.ca

http://www.ottawasun.com/entertainment/columnists/denis_armstrong/2010/07/22/14792611.html

The two-week show jumping tournament will take place from August 11-15 and 18-22 at the Nepean National Equestrian Park, conveniently located at the 417 Queensway and Moodie Drive. For the first time, a live outdoor concert will be held in conjunction with the featured show jumping event. Immediately following the $75,000 Angelstone Productions Grand Prix, Blue Rodeo will perform, live in concert, on Saturday, August 21.

The first week of competition, running August 11-15, is highlighted by Sunday’s $75,000 Brookstreet Grand Prix. Other featured events include the $10,000 Open Welcome, the $10,000 Modified Grand Prix, the $5,000 Jump Canada Hunter Derby, the Young Horse Series regional final, and Jump Canada Talent Squad competition. FEI ‘O’ course designer Guilherme Jorge of Brazil will set the tracks throughout the week on the grand prix field, widely considered to be one of the best grass jumping fields in North America.

The second week, August 18-22, will see Catsy Cruz of Mexico taking over course design duties. In addition to Saturday’s $75,000 Angelstone Productions Grand Prix, highlights include the $10,000 CompetitiveJumpers.com Open Welcome, the $15,000 ATCO Derby, and the eastern Canadian FEI Children’s Qualifier.

Both weeks of competition at the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament have been awarded CSI** status by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), meaning that competitors will earn valuable points towards the FEI Rolex World Rider Rankings.

“This is a great event to have in the Ottawa area, and it is good to see this world-class facility being used to its full potential,” said Sir Terry Matthews, owner Brookstreet Hotel, the official hotel and sponsor of the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament. “We are very much looking forward to the National Capital Show jumping Tournament this year; it is going to be great fun.”

Numerous Olympians will be in attendance at this year’s National Capital Show Jumping Tournament including local area residents Ian Millar of Perth, ON, and Jill Henselwood of Oxford Mills, ON, both members of Canada’s Silver Medal Team at the 2008 Olympic Games.

A wide variety of fun events outside the show ring are also planned including a ‘Rock the Runway’ Fashion Show, produced by Regan Hayes and Vanessa Marino, on Sunday, August 15.

The National Capital Show Jumping Tournament is produced by the Hayes Family. Co-Chairs are two-time Canadian Olympian Jay Hayes and his wife, Shawn, while Event Coordinator, Ainsley Hayes, organizes and manages the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament for the family-run Hayes Co.

“We are committed to bringing two great weeks of top quality show jumping to the nation’s capital,” said Ainsley Hayes. “The Nepean National Equestrian Park provides a world-class venue for show jumping and the fans in Ottawa are second to none, guaranteeing an enjoyable experience for competitors and spectators alike.

“Having Blue Rodeo play in conjunction with the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament is also extremely exciting,” continued Hayes. “We are thrilled to be at the forefront of the developing new trend of combining show jumping sport with live music concerts to expand spectator appeal.”

For more information on the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament, including the prize list, please visit www.hayesco.ca. Ainsley Hayes may also be contacted at ainsley@hayesco.ca or cell (416) 846-8419.

Original article from: http://www.hayesco.ca/press_releases.html

Rodeo will play a concert Aug. 21 during the National Capital Show Jumping TournamentPhotography by: Chris Mikula, The Ottawa Citizen

Blue Rodeo may not be making their usual appearance at Bluesfest this year, but Ottawa fans won’t miss out on seeing the band this summer. 

Jim Cuddy, Greg Keelor, and the rest of the Rodeo will play a concert Aug. 21 during the National Capital Show Jumping Tournament at the Nepean National Equestrian Park, horse show organizers announced Wednesday. 

It will be the first time the tournament will include a concert. 

Read more: http://www.ottawacitizen.com/sports/Blue+Rodeo+plays+Ottawa+horse+show+August/3247495/story.html#ixzz0t8p4vDAn

THE EVENT

Angelstone Productions is pleased to present Pop and R&B superstar Akon, live in concert on Friday March 19th at the Polo Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL.

The concert will be part of a dual performance event kicking off with the $25,000 Puissance International showcasing many of the world’s top Equestrian competitors, including US Olympic Gold medallists.

Tickets on sale now at all Ticketmaster locations.

AKON

With worldwide sales of over 7 million albums, certified gold and platinum status in over 23 countries, hundreds of guest appearances (including a collaboration with Michael Jackson), and the record for the first artist to have the #1 and #2 songs simultaneously on the Billboard charts twice, Akon is surely a global sensation fit to headline the first of a series of concert events at the Polo Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

Akon will be performing hits from his repertoire of albums including recent Billboard hits off his new album, “Freedom” including: “Right Now (Na Na Na)” and “Beautiful”.

$25,000 PUISSANCE INTERNATIONAL

The sport of show jumping has been synonymous with the West Palm Beach area over the past century, and the Puissance competition is one of the most exciting equestrian jumping formats, emphasizing the power and scope of the horse.

The Puissance competition features a number of elimination rounds where obstacles are steadily raised, reaching heights as much as 7 feet.

The $25,000 Puissance International will feature many of the world’s top horses and Olympic riders as they compete for the 2010 PBIEC title.

Link : PUISSANCE

JUSTIN CARLOS – Special guest performance

At his current young age of twelve, Justin Carlos is well on his way to achieving musical stardom. His first professional appearance was opening for Mary J. Blige at a Toronto Film Festival party hosted by the One X One Charity Organization.

Justin has been involved in several theatrical productions always starring in the lead male role, such as High School Musical, Grease, Wizard of Oz, Les Miserables, Peter Pan and Willy Wonka.

Justin picked up the guitar at age ten and has taught himself to play like some of his musical idols including Eddie Van Halen, Randy Rhoads, Paul Gilbert, and Jimmy Page to name a few. His musical tastes range from pop to classic rock.
Justin is currently working with producers/songwriters Ohad Einbinder and Jay Levine for his debut album to be released in the summer of 2010.

JUSTIN CARLOS – Special guest performance

At his current young age of twelve, Justin Carlos is well on his way to achieving musical stardom. His first professional appearance was opening for Mary J. Blige at a Toronto Film Festival party hosted by the One X One Charity Organization.

Justin has been involved in several theatrical productions always starring in the lead male role, such as High School Musical, Grease, Wizard of Oz, Les Miserables, Peter Pan and Willy Wonka.

Justin picked up the guitar at age ten and has taught himself to play like some of his musical idols including Eddie Van Halen, Randy Rhoads, Paul Gilbert, and Jimmy Page to name a few. His musical tastes range from pop to classic rock.
Justin is currently working with producers/songwriters Ohad Einbinder and Jay Levine for his debut album to be released in the summer of 2010

SCHEDULE & VENUE

■ Friday, March 19th, 2010 (2010-3-19 19:00:00 GMT-05:00 left)

■ 7:00 PM: Gates Open

■ 7:30 PM: $25,000 Puissance International

■ 9:00 PM: Justin Carlos Live Performance

■ 9:30 PM: AKON LIVE in Concert

■ The Polo Stadium at the Palm Beach
International Equestrian Center
13420 Southshore Blvd, Wellington, FL 33414

SEATING CHART

■ (RED) $98 Premium Standing
■ (BLUE) $48 General Standing
■ (SILVER) $1500 Box (10 seats)
■ (GOLD) $3000 VIP Box (10 seats)

*Note: Gold & Silver box seat holders may also access
Premium Standing Admission Area (Red)

*Bottle service available to Gold and Silver box seat holders

SPONSORS

THE OMPHOY OCEAN RESORTwww.omphoy.com	FRANK BROGLIOMobile:561-723-9267FBroglio@att.blackberry.net

A box office has been set up in Vendor’s Row by the Oasis Cafe for the weekend. Tickets for the Akon event can be purchased with Visa, Mastercard, checks or cash.

The box office will be open from 10 to 5 on Saturday and Sunday this weekend. Get your tickets before they’re gone!

Akon will be performing hits from his most recent album “Freedom”, with the event kicking off with the $25,000 Puissance International featuring some of the world’s best horses and riders. Following the Puissance show jumping event, will be a special performance by 12 year old rock sensation Justin Carlos.

For sponsorship opportunities, box seat or ticket inquiries, contact info@angelstoneproductions.com or visit us online at www.angelstoneproductions.com.

The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington
Equestrian Sport Lives Here!

original article from: http://www.equestriansport.com/text_03.13.10akon.html

Hip-hop star Akon played the Wellington’s Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Friday night in an unusual Winter Equestrian Festival set up: First, there was a horse-jumping competition then the concert. The card brought about 1,500 people to the center.

view photos at: http://page2live.mycapture.com/mycapture/folder.asp?event=965700&CategoryID=57438

Original article from: http://page2live.mycapture.com/mycapture/folder.asp?event=965700&CategoryID=57438

Last night was an unusual night of entertainment at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. 

It started with a $25,000-show jumping competition. There was a little cleanup after the horses. Then hip-hop star Akon took to the stage as the windows of equestrian center neighbors started vibrating.

More than 1,500 people showed up for the party.

Check out Mike Jachles’ photo gallery by clicking here, or on the photo: