Information/Write-up
Saskatchewan’s Diamond Jubilee summer programming received a resounding send-off when more than 15,000 persons in the province watched the live performance of Gala Night Under the Stars Festival in Saskatoon, June 11 and Regina, June 12.
The four performers on this record were part of this program, which initiated with the Corporation’s Special Events Sub-Committee under the chairmanship of Mrs. Mary Batten of Saskatoon.
Scott Peters, a former Saskatchewan radio personality, returned to his province to direct the search for a suitable Centennial Corporation to direct the search of Saskatchewan’s “Voice of the Province”. He conducted auditions in 30 communities during March and April. Seven radio and television personalities who appeared on 111 radio spectaculars in May (CKCK–Regina; CFQC–Saskatoon; CKBI–Prince Albert; CJNB–North Battleford; CKRM–Regina; CHAB–Moose Jaw; CFSL–Weyburn) and nine television shows, the final program for the Gala Night Under the Stars. Eleven performers (the four on this record) appeared in the performance of the Centennial programs and the two-day nineteenth century extravaganza.
Highlighted within 11 Saskatchewan performers was guest performer Lorne Green, star of the television show “Bonanza,” and Saskatchewan-born master of ceremonies Bill Walker, the Saskatchewan Jubilee and Centennial Corporation’s second major event of the year received many complementary remarks.
“It was Saskatchewan’s night. A time to put a shine on the province’s diamond. From the first note of overture to the finale three hours later, the audience loved it.”
— Saskatoon Star Phoenix
(seal)
SASKATCHEWAN DIAMOND JUBILEE 1905–1965
“Saskatchewan’s Gala Night Under the Stars was an outstanding success. Perhaps the biggest thrill of growing up in the province and knowing people from home has been that you don’t have to go away from home to be found entertaining. The Gala Night provided everything and more.”
— North Battleford News-Optimist
“The general verdict on the show was that it was well worth the walk or drive to the Exhibition Grounds. The program was an excellent curtain-raiser for the Provincial Exhibition.”
— The Regina Leader-Post
“It was exhilarating to be able to hear our Saturday Jubilee tv candidates of last fall (Scott Peters show) amplified many times and then seeing them on the stage. There was no doubt that the choice made by northwest Saskatchewan’s district jury was sound.”
— Meadow Lake Progress
on Len & Maw’s—Herald
Twenty-year-old Van Masha of Saskatoon and the son of Indian from Ituna, was selected by the local jury and won the trip to Hawaii, via Canadian Pacific Airlines, staying in the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel.
Louise Gaida of Saskatoon, who was accompanied by The Pawns, a pop instrumental group, won the four-week scholarship to the Saskatchewan College of Theatre Arts.
Among the other participants in the show were Jack Cennett, noted radio and television personality from Prince Albert; The Greystone Singers of Saskatoon, directed by Mr. Robert Solem and Susan Rusk, 10-year-old vocalist from Yorkton.
VAN MACHA
Photo by Gibson Photos, Saskatoon
Van Macha, Saskatchewan’s favourite balladeer, hails from Ituna. He was selected in April, 1965, as the northwest Saskatchewan “Voice of the Province” and received an all-expense paid one-week trip to Hawaii via Canadian Pacific Airlines for his fine performance on the June 12 Saskatoon and Regina shows. His “in-person” highlights included the Whistling Prince of Hawaii, Jade Cavern, Waikiki Beach, and Hilo Hattie. He performed with such well-known artists as Don Ho of the “Hawaii Calls” show and the Royal Hawaiian Serenaders.
His good voice, model appearance and style have been recognized by the public and his fellow entertainers. Van Macha sings popular ballads and western songs.
THE TROUBADORS THREE
Ellis Photographer, Saskatoon
The Troubadors Three were formed in 1960 in Saskatoon; brothers Ken and Len Zalinski and Jim Ronqvist. All three play guitar and all contribute vocally to the group’s harmony. They have played on many CBC radio and television shows and have made many club and concert appearances in which their fine vocal harmony is recognized by their audiences. The songs of Ken Zalinski, who sings bass-baritone, combined with the superlative harmony of the trio have made the Troubadors Three appear on this album currently recording for Rodeo Records.
LOUISE AND THE PAWNS
Will Weber, Saskatoon
Louise Gadzala, accompanied by “The Pawns,” composed of Doug Lawrie, Danny Zimmerman and Bob Crown, have performed together for more than two years. They are typical of the groups who have contributed to the present-day music trend in Saskatchewan, playing dances, teen-rooms, concerts and programmes in Saskatoon and district.
“The Pawns”, formerly known as the “Rhythmaires,” have developed a sound and beat which appeals to teenagers and adults alike.
JEFF HOWARD
Photo by Delmar Studios, Saskatoon
Jeff Howard is a 17-year-old musician who sings and plays electric guitar. He comes from Prince Albert and has his own group, “The Sultans,” which have been playing together for the past three years. He has appeared frequently on radio and television and his group plays for dances and shows in the Prince Albert district. Jeff Howard’s ability and personality have contributed to his outstanding popularity.
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