Open Air Meridian Culture Days
Saturday, September 21 from 10am - 5pm

Celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Barrie with a day dedicated to the arts, music, and traditions that make our community so vibrant. Open Air Meridian Culture Days will feature live performances, interactive art stations, and displays that highlight the creative spirit of our city. This is a day to explore, learn, and immerse yourself in the cultural heartbeat of Barrie.

 

The day will feature three dynamic outdoor performances of Everyone Is Interesting: The Committed Edition (tickets available at tift.ca) by the renowned Talk Is Free Theatre, whose creative storytelling and innovative approach to theatre will captivate audiences of all ages. Alongside their performances, they will also present a unique FREE static installation, Telephone of the Wind, inspired by Japanese artist Itaru Sasaki. This classic British telephone booth display invites the community to share their thoughts, emotions, and memories through an imaginary phone line, offering a profound and reflective experience.

 

In addition to theatrical performances, O Stella, a gifted solo artist known for her evocative blend of folk and indie sounds, will be returning to Barrie to perform live at Meridian Place. Her powerful voice and storytelling will resonate with attendees, adding a soulful musical element to the day’s festivities. Adding to the fun, local artists will lead art activations throughout the day, encouraging creativity and hands-on participation for families and children. The event will also feature DJ music, keeping the energy high and the atmosphere lively, providing a soundtrack to the artistic displays and performances.

 

Event Highlights:
– Talk Is Free Theatre: Everyone Is Interesting performances, plus the **Telephone of the Wind** installation inspired by Japanese artist Itaru Sasaki.
– O Stella: Live solo performance by the acclaimed Canadian musician.
– Art Activations: Local artists will lead hands-on, creative activities for all ages.
– MacLaren Art Centre: ‘All In Line’ interactive art activity
– City of Barrie Culture: Tea Mosaic, Weaving, Nature Threads
– Uptempo Dance: Workshops and Dancing
– DJ Music: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with music throughout the day.

 

Detailed Schedule:
– DJ: 10:00am – 11:00am
– MacLaren & City of Barrie FREE Art Activities: 10:00am – 4:00pm
– O’Stella Solo: 11:00am – 12 noon
– TIFT Performance 1 (tickets required): 12 noon – 1:15pm
– Uptempo Dance Demo: 1:30pm – 2:00pm
– DJ: 2:00pm – 2:30pm
– TIFT Performance 2 (tickets required): 2:30pm – 3:45pm
– Uptempo Dance Demo: 4:00pm – 4:30pm
– TIFT Performance 3 (tickets required): 5:30pm – 6:45pm

 

The Downtown Barrie BIA acknowledges that the Business Improvement Area is located on the traditional land of the Anishnaabeg people. The Anishnaabeg include the Odawa, Ojbwe and Pottawatomi nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy. The Downtown Barrie BIA is dedicated to honoring Indigenous history and culture and committed to moving forward in the spirit of reconciliation and respect with all First Nations, Métis and Inuit people.