The Mayor's Night Of The Arts was held last night (January 27) to honour Airdrie artists that consistently contributed to the city's culture. 

Jennifer Benner with Creative Arts Airdrie said the event sheds light on a part of the community that is not often recognized.

"This event is extremely important because in our community we recognize volunteers, businesses and elite athletes and arts and culture was a component that was missing."

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Mayor Peter Brown was not able to attend the event. Councilor Ron Chapman filled in on short notice.

"It was short notice but that's what we prepared for if something comes up and one of us has to step in," said Chapman. "I happened to be available and deputy mayor Kolson is on vacation. I know Peter would have done the same for me if it had to be done."  

Six different awards were up for grabs, with eighteen members nominated for their contributions to art in Airdrie. Torchlight Theatre founder Chelsea Restall received the award for Professional Artist, while pianist Bethany Taylor won the Youth Artist Award and filmmaker Chris Reid received the Emerging Artist Award.

Other winners were Derrick & Ayesha Clough (Patron of the Arts Award), Vernon Gray (Arts Educator Award) and Kim Cheel (Champion of the Arts Award).

The evening also saw performances from seven local artists. One performance may be a classical opera singer, the next a rapper. Performances were geared to every taste in music, while also giving those in the crowd an opportunity to experience music and art they otherwise might not choose to take in. The audience seemed to enjoy the T. Buckley Trio, who played a blend of rock, country, and jazz, giving them a thunderous round of applause. 

Jennifer Benner said this year's Mayor's Night of the Arts was a great success, and she thinks the event will continue to evolve as the years pass. 

"It was fantastic. Every year it gets bigger and better and more exciting. It really came together beautifully," 

The event was live-streamed online for members of the community who could not attend the event.

 

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