John Griffin

The sun always shines on our local arts in summer. Theatre, film, music, dance, the vast glimmering array of craft that thrive in this fecund season – all are offered on display to those who call the place home and the very many who visit.

Where to begin? With a nod and a shout out to Tour des Arts, the venerable, vibrant organization woven into the community for many years. To celebrate its 35th edition, an equal number of Townships artists throw open their studio doors to the public, July 13 to 21. Watch artisans in the act of creating work across the spectrum, from fabric art to fine art, pottery to painting. Many count on the Tour to get them through the year, so buy early and buy often.

Theatre Lac Brome beats at the cultural heart of the region. Its season is anchored by the 5th Festival du Film Knowlton, Aug. 9 to 17, with 45 films, 11 events, 50 invited guests, $6000 in prize money and national acting treasure Pascale Bussière as spokesperson.

Among many other varied events on tap at the theatre in our warmest season, the great musical multi-talent Gregory Charles performs July 6 in honour of Claire Léger and Helgi Soutar, long-time local champions of the arts.

Then, on July 19 and 20, the theatre presents the English language comedy I See You, written and directed by Glen Bowser, starring Robert Di Loreto, Karine Dion and Benjamin Hatcher. Performances will be followed by a question and answer period.

Not to be outdone, The Knowlton Players and director Lucy Hoblyn offer Romeo and the Yeti, musical plays for kids and their keepers, July 7 and 8 at the Knowlton United Church. Go to knowltonplayers.ca for tickets and details.

St. Paul’s Anglican in Knowlton also opens its mighty doors June 1 at 7 p.m. for All You Need is Love, a catchy title for a worthy night of music to raise money for Lac Brome kids in need. There’s a cast of thousands, playing from the heart. Pay what you can. Dig deep.

Fabled roadhouse The Thirsty Boot makes its living with live music. After the recent sold-out gig with the generationally famous talent Martha Wainwright, the Boot’s summer season includes Unite, a hold-all celebration, July 21, of Indigenous Peoples Day, Canada Day, St-Jean-Baptiste and Pride. The Line-up includes Acua, alt rock from Germany, and Starfield Cookout, space rock from Montreal. Bring dancing shoes and a bathing suit.

The Boot also enfolds Tour Des Arts, July 14, with live painting from notable local Valery Butters. Bringing this round-up back where it started.