Get Reel with music fest

This weekend marks the 11th year of the Reel Music Festival. The four day music and film/video event run by students in the Music Business Management Program at Durham College kicked off Thursday March 30. Featuring several musical events that showcase up-and-coming talent in both industries, educational workshops and an elaborate trade show, the festival takes place both on campus and at various venues throughout Durham Region.
The downtown core will be an entertainment hub on Friday April 1, with three different shows to inspire and amaze.
Isabella’s Chocolate Café will host the Acoustic Showcase at 6 p.m. This instrumental presentation will feature the works of six artists including Michou, an emo/pop foursome from Windsor. Stephanie Bosch, Darrelle London, Becky Elliot, Chiara Young and Josh Kvasnak & Kim Crawford will also hit the stage. Tickets will be available at the door for $6 or visit the festival website to purchase passes.

“The Acoustic Showcase is showcasing some of the best local acts and acts from around the surrounding area including some students of Durham College,” says Natasha Zajakovski, the showcase coordinator. “We’re including a variety of genres including country, rock and even funk/hip-hop. Expect a very intimate show with great music and delicious coffee.”
If you’re looking for something with a little more noise, Karma Nightclub will host the Electro Showcase. The show gets underway at 10 p.m. for a 19+ crowd. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door. Enjoy the funky beats of Paul David, Alpha Q, Kane G, Mack Browne and The Girls Can Hear Us.
For the more punk music lovers, The Atria will be the best place in town Friday night. Starting at 8 p.m, the Punk Showcase will feature The New Enemy, Thunderhawks, High Top Society, Buddy Black and Old School Politics.
The shift to hosting several Reel Music Festival events to a downtown location was because show organizers felt that that some of the venues in that area were more fitting to the type of shows being hosted.
“We also felt that we could target a larger audience group by choosing venues surrounding the school rather than focusing only on campus,” says Zajakovski. “We want to spread our influence and make a name for the festival for years to come.”
Story and images: Amanda Allison