City of Peterborough Invites Artists and Residents to Shape Public Art Projects

Peterborough artists, designers, creators and residents are invited to help create and shape the artistic experience through various projects in the City of Peterborough. 

file photo.

The City is launching several new projects focusing on public art, including a vinyl mural project at the Peterborough Transit Terminal, a Request for Proposals for digital artwork and the creation of a Public Art Jury.  

Public Art at the Peterborough Transit Terminal

Artists and artist collectives are invited to submit an Expression of Interest for a public art project at the Peterborough Transit Terminal.  

This project involves applying vinyl murals to the Terminal’s exterior concrete columns and façade surfaces. The artwork will improve wayfinding, help users identify entrances, pathways and key areas and enhance safety and accessibility.  

This public art project is part of an infrastructure upgrade at the Terminal, partly funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.  

Expressions of interest must be submitted by Feb. 23 at 4 p.m.  

Request for Proposals Open to Artists, Designers, Creators 

Local artists, designers and creators are invited to submit a proposal for the creation of an original, scalable digital artwork to support the City’s Culture and Sport Tourism marketing, communications and merchandise initiatives.   

The selected artist will be commissioned to create one original digital artwork that can be adapted and reproduced across a wide range of applications, including:  

• Apparel and merchandise 

• Printed promotional materials 

• Digital marketing and communications 

• Event branding and tourism campaigns 

Proposals must be submitted by Feb. 9 at 4 p.m. 

Join the Public Art Jury 

The City is seeking knowledgeable and passionate individuals to serve as members of its Public Art Jury.  

The five-member Public Art Jury will be responsible for reviewing and scoring artist submissions for public art projects, participate in meetings as required, provide professional and lived experience in making recommendations and support the City’s Public Art Policy. Jury members will make recommendations to the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee.  

Selected Jury members will receive an honorarium for participating in meetings and reviews for up to six different art projects during the year.  

The deadline to apply is Feb. 23 at 4 p.m. 

For more information on these local art projects, including how to apply, visit the City’s website.

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Peterborough Singers Reach $100,000 Campaign Goal Ahead of Artistic Director’s Final Season

The Peterborough Singers hit their $100,000 campaign goal for Syd Birrell's Legacy Fund ahead of his final season as Artistic Director.

photo courtesy of the peterborough singers, facebook.

Three weeks ago Birrell stood in front of the Peterborough Singers for the final time to conduct their annual performance of Handel’s Messiah. 1,300 people came to the show to witness his last musical event as Artistic Director.

“As I lifted my hands, I was keenly aware that this moment was both an ending and a culmination,” said Birrell in a press release. “I will carry the sound, the emotion and the shared energy of those evenings with me for the rest of my life.”

The $100,000 goal for the Artistic Director’s legacy fund was reached in the early morning of Jan. 1.

“Over the past 35 years, the Peterborough Singers has grown into something far greater than I could ever have imagined when we first gathered. Yes, it is a choir that strives for thrilling musical excellence,” he continued. “But more importantly, it has become a place of friendship, safety, inclusivity, kindness, joy and love. In rehearsal rooms and concert halls, in moments of laughter and moments of quiet support, this choir has reflected the very best of what community can be.”

The campaign for Syd's Legacy Fund will continue until the end of this season.

A new Artistic Director for Peterborough Singers has yet to be announced.

“Thank you for your trust, your voices and your hearts. Thank you for reminding me, week after week and year after year, why this work matters. I leave this role with immense gratitude, deep peace and unwavering confidence in what lies ahead for the Peterborough Singers,” Birrell concluded.

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CMHA HKPR Partners with Local Artist to Create a Mural Representing Inclusive Mental Health Care

In partnership with local artist Mickaela Baker, the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) unveiled a new mural at the George Street office entrance on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of CMHA HKPR.

Photo courtesy of CMHA HKPR.

The goal with the new mural is to create a more welcoming and inclusive space for those seeking mental health support, says CMHA HKPR.

“We know that the physical environment plays a critical role in how people feel when they reach out for help,” said Ellen Watkins, CMHA HKPR CEO. “This project is about more than art, it’s about creating a space that feels safe, inclusive and supportive.”

“The mural will act as a symbol of knowledge, hope and belonging, reinforcing CMHA HKPR’s commitment to making decisions guided by the needs and voices of the people we serve,” said CMHA HKPR in a press release. “By partnering with local artists, we aim to strengthen our connections to our community and demonstrate that we strive to listen to, learn from and truly see the people we support as a mental health organization.”

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4th Line Theatre Bringing Forgotten Canadian History to Life With Ontario Farmerettes On Nov. 26

4th Line Theatre is shedding light on a largely forgotten chapter of Canadian history with the documentary film ‘We Lend A Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes,’ screening on Nov. 26. at Lakefield College School.

Colin Field, Albeiro Films, Producer/Director --’We Lend A Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes’ documentary film. Photo courtsy of 4th Line Theatre.

Created by director/producer Colin Field and Bonnie Sitter, historical producer, the documentary tells the extraordinary story of 40,000 teenage girls who volunteered on Canadian farms during and after World War II and helped sustain the nation's food supply, when young men left to fight overseas.

Bonnie Sitter, author, was searching through old family photographs when she found a captivating image of a group of young women taken on her late husband's family farm near Thedford, with a caption on the reverse that read ‘Farmerettes 1946.’

This led her to research the Farmerette story and publish an article in The Rural Voice asking for women who served as Farmerettes to get in touch with her.

Shirleyan English, a retired London Free Press journalist, read the article and wrote a letter to the editor, explaining her own experience as a Farmerette and how it remained the best summer of her life. Sitter and English went on to co-author the book Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes in 2019.

“We wanted to capture the story of how the Farmerettes helped win the Second World War by volunteering to aid farmers with food production,” said Sitter.

Filmmaker Colin Field first met Sitter in 2019 and wanted to bring this forgotten Canadian story to life.

“I was privileged to collaborate with Bonnie on this extraordinary story of dedication and perseverance explained Field. “I got to interview 20 Farmerettes - now in their late 90s - for the documentary, and after two years of work, and with the help of sponsors and generous donors the documentary is finally complete.”

After the screening, there will be a Q&A with the filmmakers and 4th Line Theatre Managing Artistic Director Kim Blackwell. There will also be a chance to acquire autographed copies of the book Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes.

A portion of ticket sales will go to 4th Line Theatre’s 30 to the Future Endowment Fund and Lakefield College’s Northcote Farm Endowment. A portion of the proceeds go towards victims of the Home Hardware fire in downtown Lakefield.

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Electric City Culture Council Launching Artsweek to Places Across Peterborough This Sunday

Art is popping up all over Peterborough in unexpected places as the Electric City Culture Council launches Artsweek with opening ceremonies taking place on Sunday at 3 p.m. in Millennium Park.

EC3 is a not-for-profit arts service organization that supports the work of individual artists and arts and culture organizations across Peterborough and Peterborough County. Through a wide range of initiatives, EC3 supports the creation, presentation, and promotion of artistic work, while also enriching public engagement with the arts. Artsweek is funded by the City of Peterborough, Peterborough DBIA, Canadian Heritage, and the Ontario Arts Council. Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The event will include remarks by Councillor Alex Bierk, who will also present a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Jeff Leal, as well as appearances by several artists, cake and face painting. Samantha Banton, Sahira, Janet McCue, Hank Fisher, the Poetry Cart, Elizabeth Jenkins, Victoria Yeh, Caylie Staples, Blues in the Bottle, Josh Morley and more are featured talents at the event.

Artsweek takes place from Sunday to Oct. 5. The lineup of events will take place across the city in unexpected locations - all free to attend.

The festival will showcase the creative talents of local artists through a diverse range of performances including poetry, visual art installations, aerial arts, dance, theatre, sculpture, painting, live music and more. Attendees can look forward to singers, dancers, front porch concerts, musical art collaborations, giant puppets, visual artists, and surprise pop-up events. 

“This year’s theme, Art in Unexpected Places, transforms everyday spaces into stages, galleries, and spontaneous creative encounters, bringing art to places you’d never expect,” said Leal. “Artsweek invites you to discover and celebrate the incredible creativity, talent, and diversity of our local arts community. Don’t miss this unique city-wide event, a remarkable opportunity to experience and support the work of many talented local artists.”

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New Mural Hits Downtown Peterborough to Celebrate Art, Community and Connection This Fall

To celebrate art, community, and connection, downtown Peterborough is welcoming a new mural created by local Anishinaabe artist Josh Morley (Miskopwagan Asin) this fall.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA

Facilitated by First Friday Peterborough, the mural will be painted on Water Street between Key Design Inc. and Scotiabank.

“The hug is a universal symbol. It’s an action of support, connection and optimism - values that reflect the strength of the Peterborough community,” said Morley. “Through this mural, I hope to encourage us all to keep showing up for one another. Public art has the power to spark connection and belonging, and my wish is that this piece not only inspires those feelings but also adds to the vitality and beauty of our downtown.” 

“Serving on the mural jury was both exciting and weighted with responsibility. We wanted to create new opportunities for local artists, and it was inspiring to see so many beautiful proposals submitted. Choosing just one was not easy, and every artist should be so proud of themselves” says Ashley Hall, First Friday committee member, mural jury, and local artist. “I’m excited to see this mural bring vitality back to the space and reflect the values of connection, inclusivity, and love… all beautifully captured in a single hug.”

An unveiling event to take place during the October First Friday Art Crawl event on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m., at the mural location.

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Market Hall Suplexes Cancer Care With Fourth-Annual 'Cancer Takedown' Fundraiser

Market Hall is body slamming cancer with its fourth annual ‘Cancer Takedown’ fundraiser for anyone touched by cancer on Nov. 4 and 5, starting at 7 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Market Hall.

The night shines a light on the mental burden of cancer and unites people through song, story and solidarity. All proceeds go to Cancer Care at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

Performances will be done by Melissa Payne, Kate Suhr, The Weber Brothers, Nicholas Campbell, Anthony Bastianon and more. The show also features three women (all diagnosed under the age of 40) sharing their cancer stories. It focuses on the emotional and mental rollercoaster that the cancer experience brings.

New this year is a show done outside of Peterborough, at the Flato Academy Theatre in Lindsay on Nov. 4 on 7 p.m. Market Hall’s event is scheduled for Nov.5 at 7 p.m.

Husband and wife Rick and Amy Kemp founded the event. Rick has been a patient of PRHC since 2019. He was diagnosed with two separate cancers over the past seven years, including metastatic kidney cancer in 2019 and CNS lymphoma in 2021.

“The physical battle of cancer is tough but the mental battle is tougher,” said Rick. “It’s a battle you can’t really fight, you just make your way through. Cancer Takedown is an opportunity to remind people they can get through.”

Tickets can be purchased online for the Lindsay and Peterborough dates.

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The Peterborough Academy of Performing Arts Rebrands As Proactive Academy of Performing Arts

The Peterborough Academy of Performing Arts has rebranded to Proactive Academy of Performing Arts (PAPA) as the school is broadening its range of classes and hosting them at a new location.

Photo courtesy of PAPA.

Co-founded in 2007 by renowned actress and artistic director Linda Kash, PAPA has long been a hub for creativity, connection and confidence-building. Focused initially on improv, PAPA has a full roster of performing arts classes designed to be affordable, accessible, inclusive, skill-building, community-building, and super fun according to Kash.

“PAPA has always been about more than just performing,” she said. “It’s about building confidence, connection, and joy – whether you’re four years old or 104. The rebrand reflects how much we’ve grown and how much more we have to offer.”

This fall’s new offerings include:

• Ages 4–104: Classes designed for absolute beginners to seasoned performers.

• More than just improv: Acting, voice, scene study, and more (standup in January).

• Two vibrant locations: Downtown Peterborough and now Grimsby, Ontario.

• Community-focused learning: Small, welcoming classes where everyone belongs.

All classes kick off the first week of September.

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Peterborough Folk Festival Releases 2025 Performance Schedule

The 36th annual Peterborough Folk Festival (PFF) has unveiled its lineup of 30 artists for this year’s free event, taking place from Aug. 14 to 17 at Nicholls Oval Park.

Photo courtesy of PFF.

The four-day celebration kicks off on Aug. 14 at the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre with singer-songwriter Basia Bulat and PFF Emerging Artist of the Year, Jeanne Truax.

On Friday, at 8 p.m., another kick-off concert will be held at Sadleir with Nixon Boyd (of Hollerado), PFF 2024 Emerging Artist VANCAMP, and Guelph-based quintet I, The Mountain.

The following is the Saturday schedule:

Children’s Village

• 10:30 a.m. - Village opens

• 10:40 a.m. - Story Time by the Peterborough Public Library

• 11:15 a.m. - Children’s Parade to the Miskin Law Main Stage

• Noon to 5 p.m. - Activities, crafts and games

Food Village

• 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. - Food Village open

Artisan Village

• Noon to 7 p.m. - Artisan Village open

Children’s Village

• 10:30 a.m. - Village opens

• 10:40 a.m. - Story Time by the Peterborough Public Library

• 11:15 a.m. - Children’s Parade to the Miskin Law Main Stage

• Noon to 5 p.m. - Activities, crafts and games

Miskin Law Main Stage

• 11:15 a.m. - Children’s Parade to the Main Stage & Opening Ceremony

• 11:45 a.m. - Songs of Scratch Garden

• 12:35 p.m. - Benj Rowland

• 1:30 p.m. - Grievous Angels

• 3:00 p.m. - My Son the Hurricane

• 4:50 p.m. - Shub presented by Hiawatha First Nation

• 6:30 p.m. - Joel Plaskett

• 8:15 p.m. - Goldie Boutilier

• 9:45 p.m. - Jeremie Albino

Nicholls Oval Pavilion Stage

• 1:10 p.m. - Caitlin Currie

• 2:15 p.m. - Jeanne Truax

• 4:00 p.m. - Doghouse Orchestra

• 5:45 p.m. - The Silver Hearts

• 7:45 p.m. - Swindlers

• 9:20 p.m. - Tapes in Motion

Generation Solar Stage

• 11:45 a.m. - TBA

• 1:00 p.m. - Lancelot Knight

• 2:15 p.m. - Joel Plaskett x Benj Rowland

• 3:15 p.m. - Sister Ray

• 4:35 p.m. - Grievous Angels x Swindlers

• 5:45 p.m. - Bells Larsen x Sister Ray x Jeremie Albino

• 6:50 p.m. - Quinton Barnes

• 7:45 p.m. - Bells Larsen

The following is the Sunday schedule:

Miskin Law Main Stage

• 11:15 a.m. - Children’s Parade to the Main Stage & Opening Ceremony

• 11:30 a.m. - Round Dance with Kelli Marshall

• 11:45 a.m. - Sharon, Lois & Bram Singalong with Sharon & Randi

• 12:50 p.m. - Colin Linden x Jethro’s Blues Jam All-Stars

• 1:55 p.m. - Inn Echo x Benj Rowland x Irish Millie

• 2:50 p.m. - Beau Dixon

• 4:15 p.m. - Lemon Bucket Orkestra

• 5:45 p.m. - A Special Thank You

• 5:50 p.m. - Whitehorse

Nicholls Oval Pavilion Stage

• 1:35 pm - Sue & David Newberry

• 2:25 pm - Kay Silver

• 3:35 pm - Inn Echo

• 5:15 pm - Beau Dixon x Babe Chorus x Michael Cloud Duguay

Generation Solar Stage

• 11:45 a.m. - The Colton Sisters

• 12:40 p.m. - VANCAMP x Kay Silver x Tapes in Motion

• 1:45 p.m. - Babe Chorus

• 2:40 p.m. - Fittonia

• 3:35 p.m. - Whitehorse x Jeanne Truax

• 4:45 p.m. - Colin Linden

The PFF after parties start in Downtown Peterborough at 11 p.m. at the following locations:

• Jethro’s Bar + Stage - The Jet Airliners featuring Jeanne Truax

• Pig's Ear Tavern - The Silver Hearts - $5 at the door

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Peterborough Theatre Guild Kicks Off 2025-26 Season With "Opening Night" Production Starting Sept. 19

The Peterborough Theatre Guild’s (PTG) production of ‘Opening Night’ will lead off the 2025-26 season, with 10 dates slated for September and October.

Photo courtesy of the PeterborougH Theatre Guild.

Two matinee shows are scheduled for 2 p.m. and evening shows are at 7:30 p.m.

Show dates run on the following dates: Sept. 19, 20, 21* 25, 26, 27, 28* Oct. 2, 3 and 4.

*denotes matinee performances

Written by Canada’s most-produced playwright, Norm Foster, the production is directed by Margaret Monis. According to PTG, Opening Night follows a middle-aged couple out for an evening at the theatre—he’d rather be at home watching the game, she’s looking for a romantic night out—and the comedic chaos that ensues when backstage antics and front-row drama collide. With Foster’s trademark wit and warmth, this play offers hilarious insights into love, timing and what it really means to put on a show.

Tickets are $20-$30 (including fees) and can be purchased by calling (705) 745-4211 or visiting Peterborough Theatre Guild’s website.

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