The starts were out: left to right, emcees Cindy O’Neill (Martha) and Diane Mouland (Cassie).
-by Donna Kimberley
The “Stars Are Out” event, held on February 22nd, at St. Peter’s Parish Hall in Port Hood, showcased how a community can unite for a great cause. It was Port Hood Development’s inaugural lip sync tribute fundraiser, and thanks to months of teamwork and dedicated volunteers, it was a great success. Port Hood councillor Lynn Chisholm directed this concert, it was a fundraiser for the Port Hood and Area Development Association.
Community members shone as they lip-synced to classic tunes while dressed in period costumes from the 1950s to the 1990s. The night came alive with two charismatic MCs, Cassie (Diane Mouland) and Martha (Cindy O’Neill). At times Cassie couldn’t help but get up and dance with the performers, often prompting Martha to keep her in check. One of the evening highlights was Sam Moon’s (Bernie MacDonald) performance of Girls of Neil’s Harbour, during which he twirled Cassie across the stage shoeless and wearing a moomoo.
The lineup of talented acts was impressive. Some performers were part of the celebrity lip sync and others were local talent. Celebrity performers included Matt Minglewood (Brian MacMillan), as well as a fantastic rendition by The Dixie Chicks (Karen MacInnis Tompkins, Janice Campbell, and Margie MacInnis). Other greats included Dolly Parton (Carol Morris), Sonny and Cher (Joanne Smith and Cathy Matthews), and many more. The surprise dance troupe accompanying Nancy Sinatra (Sandy Taylor) added a fun twist to the end of the evening.
Thank you to the Knights of Columbus for providing table seating and a cash bar that kept the good vibes flowing. The hall was filled with smiling faces, and it was evident that everyone was enjoying themselves. Congratulations to all who worked hard to make this event a memorable success and to raise community funds.
Due to its popularity, a second show was added for April 12th, but it also sold out. The proceeds from the April 12th show will go to the Bayview Child Development Centre.