PULLING STRINGS by Chuck Leclair

Title: Let’s all have a piece of pie

Hey Cornwall Folk,

In the past, I have never really liked musicals…….don’t know why, but it is true. With that said and in my defense, my experience concerning the concept of a musical was limited to only watching the odd one on the infamous television, usually on a Sunday afternoon, usually The Sound of Music, cue orchestra……Dually noted, I never actually had the experience of viewing a live musical, nor had an inclination to seek one out. That all changed a few Fridays ago!

Of course I mean Chicago! My “Cornwall Chicago” story starts when I was anxiously waiting in the lobby at Aultsville Hall prior to the second Friday night soiree. Ticket in hand, a few of us tardy folk had to wait to shuffle in, as the first act was winding down. The usher had mentioned that she didn’t want to open the door due to the fact that the commotion may disturb the actors and musicians. Rightfully so, we were all waiting in anticipation for the doors of culture to be opened. Despite being visually challenged, the small group of late-comers were still able to hear what was going on behind those doors. The sound of singing, the sound of an orchestra, the sound of laughing and the sound of clapping……Act 1 done, cue usher to open the door, we’re in!

In addition to my urge to seek out a live musical, I was also in attendance to support a good friend of mine, who was playing the title character of Amos. For readers who aren’t familiar with this character, Amos is constantly being dumped on in life. In my own thought and as a compliment to my friend’s performance, I believe a link could be made to the woes of Amos and the perception of culture in our fair city. With that said, there is so much local talent in Cornwall and Area and we should continue to support all local cultural activities.

Personally, I view SVTC’s version of Chicago as a catalyst of what can be accomplished using the medium of community. I was both amazed and inspired at all the hard work that went into putting on such a musical production. Consequently to this praise, I overheard some people talk to the tune that most people involved in the musical did not receive compensation. My buddy “Amos Hart Aubin” would righteously reply to this by saying something like…..we do it for the love of the stage! If anybody sees my pal “Amos Heart Aubin”, for points of compensation, tell him I would have gladly paid $40 for my ticket.

“It is not necessary to understand music; it is only necessary that one enjoy it”—-Leopold Stokowski

“As our heart beats, the music is playing”—-Chuck Leclair

E-mail comments and musical quotes to chuckleclair@hotmail.com or add him to Facebook to follow his events and shows dates.

Chuck Leclair is a local musician, songwriter, music promoter/activist and small business owner. He also musically donates his time to the CMHA and the Agape Center and is a Board of Director/Treasurer for our deloved Cornwall & the Counties Arts and Culture Council.