The Island Summer Review
What’s the inspiration behind The Island Summer Review? The show creators have always hoped that, once guests entered the front doors, they could leave behind every-day cares for a while.
Those doors are opening once again in 2021, for the show’s ninth summer running at Harmony House. And comedian Patrick Ledwell and musician Mark Haines aim, more than ever, to create a show that raises laughter and spirits, at this moment when we all need a break from heavier times.
Ledwell and Haines are hard at work crafting a brand-new storytelling set, with up-to-the-minute comedy, fiddle and contemporary music, and everything Prince Edward Island in between. The Island Summer Review has been described as “This Hour Has 22 Minutes” meets “Don Messer’s Jubilee,” a comic take on the traditional Maritime kitchen party. They’ve built a reputation for leaving packed houses stomping their feet, both in laughter and along with the beat.
For this upcoming season, the show will take a look at the special place that music holds, in the lives of Islanders. “Whether it’s anthems from classic Canadian rock, or classic fiddle tunes from beside the stove, music has an incredible ability to take us to a different place,” says show co-performer Patrick Ledwell.
“As a storyteller, I’ve always envied that power of a song to access the heart. I’m thrilled to be alongside Mark’s musical talents and to be able to highjack songs of all kinds, telling Island tales from recent times.”
Ledwell and Haines are also excited for the opportunity to work with the new co-owners of Harmony House, Mike Ross and Nicole Bellamy.
“The Island Summer Review has been the heartbeat of Harmony House for so many magical summers,” shared Ross, looking forward to the season ahead. “It’s a chance for Islanders to see themselves in the mirror and at the same time it’s a warm-hearted introduction to those who might be visiting us for the first time.”
The Island Summer Review opens Tuesday July 6th. The show runs two nights a week, each Tuesday and Wednesday starting at 7:30 p.m., until September 8th.
A big thank you to our 2021 Stage Sponsor, Potato Farmers of PEI , for their support to the arts and to the Community of Hunter River!
