Battle of the Bards

The Final Battle and Goodbye to John

Russ — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 17:45:30 +0000

Following much discussion, we’ve decided that November will be the final Battle of the Bards. John is moving to BC, and Russ is moving on to other community-building activities. Combine this with low performer/audience turnout over the past year, and it feels like the right time. We hope to find other opportunities or ways to keep things going in the near and distant future, but it’s time to move away from our monthly-or-so format.

For our final show, we’re hoping that we’ll be able to take every single performer who wants a part of the show. Moreover, We’re hoping that everyone who performs will bring us something absolutely amazing…something that’s really pushing the boundaries of entertainment (in a good way). Something we’ve never seen before, or that you’ve never tried before because you worry about public safety.

Seriously: in November, we want you to bring your A++ game.

And oh yeah, did I mention that it’ll be free? We don’t want your money…we just want you to be there with us to celebrate the end of something that we’ve enjoyed immensely. That being said, we’ll be accepting donations to The Button Factory, which has served as a warm and welcoming home to us over the years.

And what the heck…let’s give away some prizes. Or maybe get a cake or something…we’ll think about it and get back to you.

Performers, let’s keep this one short and sharp: nothing over five minutes and the faster the better. Hit-and-run entertainment.

For his part, Russ is bringing back the Tennis Raquet of Doom, which he hasn’t touched in almost two years. And since he needs a new challenge, we’re going to see how many times he can go through it in TWO minutes (unless he thinks of something better).

So let’s hear it: who’s in for November?

September Battle of the Bards is cancelled

john — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:17:08 +0000

Due to unforeseen circumstances we’ve had to cancel the September edition of Battle of the Bards. Many thanks to all performers and audience who had signed up to attend - we hope to see you in October.

If you’re looking for something to do in September, by all means check out the KWLT production of Beggars Opera in their newly finished space. And don’t forget the annual Royal Medieval Faire on September 18th in Waterloo Park.

John and Russ

September Battle of the Bards

john — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:37:46 +0000

It’s a whole new year of Bards starting Friday, September 18th 2009! Come on out and use your talents to entertain the best crowd in the busienss, or be part of that crowd and cheer on the few, the proud, the brave, the performers of Waterloo Region.

We’re looking for actors, poets, musicians, clowns, magicians, people who can fit themselves through tennis rackets … basically anyone who thinks they can do something which will entertain an audience for 5-10 minutes. If you’re interested in performing get in touch and reserve your spot today. And don’t forget the CASH PRIZE that go to the best performers of the night (not to mention all the fame and glory)

We’re also looking for people who like being entertained, by actors, poets, musicians, clowns, magicians, people who can fit themselves through tennis rackets … and other people who entertain in a variety of ways. Get in touch to reserve your ticket now (remember, it’s cheaper in advance that it is at the door)

See you in September!

John

Oh yeah! Russ and I haven’t quite decided where proceeds from this year’s shows will go so if you have a suggestion, feel free to speak up.

More Information on DIY and DJs (being held THIS SATURDAY!)

Russ — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 20:33:53 +0000

DIY & DJ’s: The Creation Space

Russ — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:43:48 +0000

Bards is working with DJ Phat Albert and the City of Waterloo on a great new event called “DIY & DJ’s: The Creation Space“, taking place on Saturday, July 11, at the Waterloo Uptown Public Square. Hope to see you there!

April’s Battle of the Bards…

Russ — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 16:30:11 +0000

Is looking like a great show, but needs a few more performers. Anyone interested?

March’s Bards is Cancelled

Russ — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:36:47 +0000

Hi all,

For a variety of reasons, John and I have decided to cancel March’s Battle of the Bards. Factors include a small roster of performers and an equally small audience, combined with rising rental costs for the Button Factory.

Instead, we’ll look forward to our next show on April 17.

Apologies to those of you who were lined up to perform (you get first dibs on April) and those of you who were coming.

If you’re looking for something to do, go to Conestoga Mall and check out the Food Bank’s Canstruction displays. There’s some really cool stuff, including an hour glass, a bridge, and a giant fish tank all made out of
cans. The displays will be up until Sunday at 5pm.

Cheers!

Russ

Next Bards: March 20, 2009

Russ — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:18:27 +0000

It turns out that we can’t hold Bards on March 27th as we had hoped, due to the WCAC having conflicting bookings. As such, we’ll hold the next show in 2.5 weeks on Friday, March 20th.

Anyone interested in performing?

Bards is on February 27, 2009!

Russ — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 19:18:19 +0000

I know, I know, we said that it’d be on the 20th, but it turns out that date doesn’t work so well. As such, Bards has been moved to Friday, February 27th. Contact us if you’d like to perform or get on the reserved-seating list.

Happy Holidays!

Russ — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 19:13:15 +0000

January tends to be a busy month for John and Russ, which means that Battle of the Bards will go on its usual hiatus until February 20, 2009. We wish you all the best for the holiday season, and look forward to seeing you in the new year!