Published on September 11, 2024
Get LOUD with Amplify at The Show 9.0
St. Albert’s loudest youth event, The Show 9.0, returns to City Arts Space for its ninth year on Sept. 27, thanks to the hard work of the Amplify Advisory Committee. The Show is Amplify’s unique twist on a battle of the bands — where the ‘battle’ is de-emphasized, and the focus is truly on a fun, safe night of music that supports the growth of young artists.
“This event is a staple in the Amplify calendar,” explains Kathleen Bell, Amplify’s City liaison and Community Cultural Coordinator. “The committee, the bands, the fans — everyone loves this event! It’s always the first to get the green light from the committee when we are planning the year.”
With the goal of elevating the work of young musicians in the community and building confidence in the city’s youth, The Show is a full concert experience for both the artists and the audience. “Most bands in the Amplify age range haven’t played a gig with professional lighting, sound, and a full soundcheck. It becomes a really magical night for them, and they consistently rise to the occasion. It makes them feel pretty special — because they are! They’ve put the work in to learn their instrument and we are giving them space to shine.”
The event is organized with a ‘by youth, for youth’ philosophy, where the youth behind the Amplify Advisory Committee are running all the logistics of the night. From concession to emcees to stage management to photography — the committee works hard to present a concert where youth feel like it’s for them.
“The energy is always spectacular,” says Bell. “Both from the bands and the audience. But it’s the Committee members that truly set the tone — they are there to make the bands feel comfortable, welcome and supported and they do an excellent job.”
To make sure there’s never a dull moment, while the bands are turning over and getting ready for the next set, the Committee has organized dance performances in between each act. This year the highlights include performances from Dance Co and Darrell Brertton Jr., an Indigenous dancer that performs the men’s Fancy Dance.
All youth grades 7 to age 21 are invited to come and cheer on the bands. Bell notes that you don’t have to recognize the band or have a friend in a band to enjoy the night. “Between the dance performances and the professionalism each band brings to the night, it's always a fun evening. Guaranteed!”
Learn more about The Show 9.0
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Last edited: September 11, 2024