Applegrove’s East End Music Fest slated for this Saturday night

By MARQUS DOWNEY

The Applegrove community organization hosts its second annual East End Music Fest at the East End Food Hub on Gerrard Street East this Saturday night.

Applegrove is a multiservice company centre that has been serving the East End of Toronto since 1979. They deliver a variety of programs and services in support of a caring and vibrant community.

The music festival is set for Saturday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary of the East End United Church Glen Rhodes Campus, 1470 Gerrard St. E., which is also home to the East End Food Hub.

The festival features performances from talented musicians in Toronto who have connections to the East End.

Attendees on Saturday night will have the chance to see and hear performers such as Samantha Martin and Delta Sugar, who make award-winning blues based soul music; Marker Starling, who makes lounge-crooning soul music; and Annika Zee who makes a bouncy mix of 1990s pop and electronic music.

“What inspired the creation was when back in (the COVID-19 pandemic) quarantine, there was a lack of opportunities for artists and musicians and a desire to celebrate the neighbourhood’s diverse art scene,” said Applegrove Executive Director Susanne Burkhardt.

“We are looking for this to be an annual event that everyone can enjoy.”

Alongside the musicians, there will be a silent art auction showcasing works by talented artists, who all have a unique East Toronto story. These artists include Marnie Brunton, Carolina Reis, Kylie Sandford, Heidi Burkhardt, Annika Zee, Ashley Snook, and Susan Horley.

All proceeds will go to supporting Applegrove community programs such as the annual holiday toy drive, seniors supports, and food security for those in need.

For information on tickets for the East End Music Fest, please go to https://applegrovecc.ca/special-projects/east-end-music-fest