Port Moody’s own version of an East Coast kitchen party is back.
But it will be indoors.
Transplanted Haligonian Adam Faber, who organized an outdoor version of the drop-in musical jam at Rocky Point Park last September, said he’s taking the event to the Port Moody Recreation Complex for the next three months, with parties scheduled Jan. 28, Feb. 25 and March 25, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
Faber, an accordionist with a penchant for writing satirical songs, said it’s important to keep the vibe and fellowship established at last year’s outdoor party alive through the winter.
“The kitchen party in the park took on a life of its own,” he said. “Many people came up to us after the event suggesting we make it a regular thing.”
Faber said the first party attracted more than 50 participants — many of whom brought their instruments to play and sing along to tunes from Atlantic Canada, as well as some well-known rock classics.
He said the kitchen party is a Maritime cultural touchstone, where assemblies of family, friends and neighbours usually end up gravitating to the kitchen where someone breaks out a guitar, then others join in.
“The kitchen is where the family hangs out,” Faber said. “It’s where everyday life happens.”
He said he missed that when he moved west with his wife early last year.
Faber added kitchen parties are inclusive. Even if you can’t play a musical note or carry a tune, it’s fun to clap along or just bask in the revelry and sense of community.
“It’s great fun,” he said. “You’ll learn how to have a bit of fun like an East Coaster. And you’ll also learn what to do with a drunken sailor, I daresay.”
Faber said the indoor parties, to be hosted by his band, the Lethbridge Privateers, will have more instruments for those who don’t have their own, and a bigger songbook.
The events are free, but pre-registration is encouraged because space is limited.
