On Sunday, the Roxy Theatre will be the host of the Pie Media Group’s 21st season of show production that will be much more than attractive people modelling fantastic clothes.
Inception’s producer Sandra Roberts knows that Sunday’s event will redefine what most view as a typical show.
“So far so good, but a lot of work,” said Roberts. “Running a fashion show is difficult for all involved, but then add in what we’re doing with Inception and it’s tenfold. I like to refer to it as a Society of Style and really, it’s more like a variety show.”
The publisher/director and creator of Pie Digest magazine believes that Barrie is a prime location for the forward thinking of Inception.
Roberts was born in Barrie and after moving away for many years, returned for college but has travelled the world since.
“I’ve done shows in LA that were just what you would expect, in a town that you’d expect it from,” said Roberts. “Barrie truly is a perfect place for creativity. There are so many wonderful things happening here with theater, music and art and a show like the one we’re doing Sunday will only add to that. I also feel very strongly that it will show people that they can think outside the box, that if you’re thinking fashion show, why not go bigger and more progressive? I love Canadian fashion and while it’s somewhat conservative, I hope to add a little flash and creativity.”
Barrie will have a strong voice on the night with its many in-show talents, but also a local flare in the food category as Swirleez and Old Thyme Confections will provide experimental desserts and candy cocktails for those in attendance.
Not only will music be featured prominently throughout the night, there will also be a magician, cabaret acts and skits from an acting troupe.
“A song performed by Ian Churchward and Cassandra Rutherford will be performed,” said Roberts. “Peter Bent produced a theatre skit exclusive for the evening, DJ Darryl Weeks and Chris Kaplinski are on hand, not to mention circus acts as well. I feel there really is something for everyone, especially the couple looking for something different to do on Valentine’s Day.”
There is also a charitable side to the night as money is being raised for My Sister’s Place.
My Sister's Place is a not-for-profit organization providing a broad range of services designed to alleviate the consequences of violence against women and their children.
Donating to My Sister's Place means that they can help to heal, educate and empower women and their children to live a life free from violence and abuse.
Knowing that change is a process and requires time and effort, they also provide transitional services in housing and support.
“We are launching a campaign we are fundraising to help the shelter one room at a time to make it a beautiful and powerful transition home for these women and children,” said Roberts. “We call it the Get A Room program. We focus on making one room better at a time so that the whole place is welcoming.”
With all the different acts happening, Roberts wants to remind everyone that fashion will still be front and centre and some great names being represented.
“We definitely will have some big names and upcoming season’s being presented. Be prepared to see designers such as Roots, Swam, Lingerie, Matthew Gallagher and Narces. Our awesome sponsors are such a huge part of this and we’re thankful to them. Hopefully we have a great turn-out and a really fun night.”
Doors open at the Roxy Theatre at 7:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8:45 p.m.
Tickets are available by contacting piemagazine@gmail.com.
