Antigonish, NS – Step into the warmth of a true Nova Scotian kitchen party! The Festival Antigonish Kitchen Ceilidh returns to the Bauer Theatre on Saturday, July 5 for an evening of traditional tunes, heartfelt songs, and infectious rhythms — performed by a lively mix of local professional musicians. It’s a celebration of community, culture, and the joy of shared music that will have you tapping your toes and clapping along. “Nothing says home like a Kitchen Ceilidh,” said Emerging Artistic Associate, Spencer Laing, who curated the event, “this year we couldn’t be more excited to bring together incredible musicians whose love of music makes the evening even more toe tapping and heart-warming”
This year’s concert promises an incredible blend of musical voices supported by pianist Allan Dewer — from Mary Beth Carty’s Gaelic ballads and accordion folk to Malcolm MacNeil’s virtuosic Cape Breton fiddle sets. Heather MacIsaac brings the haunting sound of the pipes and whistle with original compositions from her debut album, while Nathan Bishop MacDonald shares foot-stomping originals and stirring songs from the sea.
“I love having the opportunity to sing in a beautiful soft-seat theatre like the Bauer,” says Carty. “Sharing the stage with friends to create some one-night-only magic!”
Adding to the high energy, John Pellerin’s crowd-favourite fusion of step dancing and fiddling will light up the stage. “What I’ve always loved about the Ceilidh is how it brings everyone together — artists, dancers, families, neighbours — all sharing music, stories, and laughs,” says Pellerin. “Since I live here, it is home, which makes it even more special to be part of something that celebrates our community and traditions in such a meaningful way.”
Rounding out the night are bold modern voices: cinematic pop artist Khozie, whose melodies echo coastal memory, and cabaret crooner Kyle Gillis, known for his theatrical flair.
“How many stories live inside a single song?” reflects Andrea Boyd, Artistic Director of Festival Antigonish. “That’s the spirit of the Kitchen Ceilidh — where traditional tunes, original compositions, and deep-rooted cultural sounds come together in an unforgettable evening. One audience member said last year, ‘Was a fantastic evening. Such talent! Wow!’ — and we couldn’t agree more.”
The 2025 Festival Antigonish Concert Series, including the Kitchen Ceilidh (July 5) and Mary Frances Leahy in Concert (July 23), is generously sponsored by Highcrest Enterprises, with season support from The MacLeod Group, The Maples, and East Coast Credit Union.
📅 Saturday, July 5, 2025
📍 Bauer Theatre, Antigonish
🎟 Tickets at festivalantigonish.ca or call 902-867-3333
📍 Bauer Theatre, Antigonish
🎟 Tickets at festivalantigonish.ca or call 902-867-3333
Media Contact:
Caleb Marshall
Managing Director
Festival Antigonish Summer Theatre & Theatre Antigonish
5015 Chapel Square, StFX Campus, Office 202, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5
📞 Office: (902) 867-3954 |
Managing Director
Festival Antigonish Summer Theatre & Theatre Antigonish
5015 Chapel Square, StFX Campus, Office 202, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5
📞 Office: (902) 867-3954 |