by Karina Hunter

Wood's lyrics offer something for everyone to connect with.

Friday, November 27^th, Manitouwadge Nite on the Town Entertainment Series (NOTES) of the Arts attendees were treated to a very special performance as the cancellation of a previously scheduled artist left organizer, Natalie Labbée, scrambling to find someone willing and able to come in to our isolated community on very short notice.  Labbée contacted Toronto artist Royal Wood, a critically acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, who was on the last days of a sold out five week Western Canadian tour, and he agreed to end his travels with a performance in Manitouwadge, accompanied by guitarist Dean Drouillard.   

Dean Drouillard was the only one of Wood's band members brave enough to make the drive to Manitouwadge.

In March, Wood’s single “A Mirror Without” was featured on ABC’s hit show Grey’s Anatomy helping to tell the story of the doctors at Seattle Grace; during his performance in Manitouwadge Wood shared many of the personal experiences which inspired his song writing.  He has an incredible talent for transforming unique circumstances into relatable tales that connect with listeners, each song holding a truth that can be shared by many.

Alternating between keyboard and guitar the only instrumental constant  throughout Wood’s diverse showcase was the clear voice with which he sang. Powerful yet soft Wood’s crisp voice resonated deep, the acoustics of Manitouwadge High School’s first class theatre facilities carrying the lyrics of Wood’s songs to envelop his audience completely with the moving sounds. “When he sang I felt it right through me, it was incredible” one audience member raved after the show.  The evening ended with Wood joining his audience in the foyer of the school where he posed for photographs with fans. 

Manitouwadge and area attendees of the Nite on the Town Entertainment Series are privy to such first class entertainment thanks in part to funding from both the Ontario Arts Council (OAC), which has increased its services to northern Ontario with an office and consultant in Thunder Bay, and the federal government’s Fresh Start! Program. Through these programs, Northshore patrons enjoy prime seats at ½ the price paid at southern venues.  In January, NOTES invites Northshore patrons of the arts to He Sang She Sang Starring Adam Brazier & Cara Leslie; told through over 50 great songs of the musical theatre, this romantic comedy is a cabaret concert of great songs and scenes from classical musicals.  For ticket information, email nottown@gmail.com.  Keep reading The Echo for Nite on the Town Entertainment Series of the Arts show dates & times.

Submitted to The Echo, 11.30.09