By Times Chronicle Staff
As part of Venables Theatre’s Local Artist Series, The Kristi Neumann Band, and solo artist Bianca Berkland will perform on the evening of Valentine’s Day 2024.
Neumann said all members of her band, and also Bianca, are residents of the South Okanagan meaning all ticket sales will be supporting local musicians.
“People are always looking for something to do on Valentine’s Day so why not come enjoy two artists for one ticket price,” she adds.
Neumann expressed her appreciation to the theatre for organizing the local musician series telling the Times Chronicle, “it is a really special thing for Venables to be giving performers, and the local audience, the opportunity to share music in such a lovely space.”
Neumann is a gifted singer/songwriter who grew up in Montana and also spent much of her musical career in Nashville, Tennessee. She successfully carved out a place for herself in a town that does not forgive mediocrity. Armed with a growing catalogue of self-penned tunes, her prowess as a writer, band leader and performer turned heads.
Kristi’s music is original and provocative. Her songs weave through themes that embrace both a wandering past and an optimistic hope for things to come. With perfect sensibility, her introspective lyrics leave just enough room for well-crafted, pop-friendly hooks.
Neumann now resides in Oliver and has played a variety of venues as a solo artist and has recently joined forces with other top notch local musicians Luke Whittall, Greg Reely and Paul Henbury to form The Kristi Neumann Band.
Bianca Berkland
And local solo artist Bianca Berkland is an exceptionally gifted, modern pianist, songwriter and performer also based out of Oliver.
Berkland delivers an array of jazz and soul while sharing her wealth of beautiful, original material. Her song ‘Black Bird’ was a semi-finalist in the International Songwriting Competition and her music video placed in the top three in the Gonzo Okanagan Awards.
With imaginative and honest lyrics and a unique take on traditional songs, the music of Bianca Berkland is one of those rare finds we’re all seeking. She has a nostalgic sound that is often compared to the likes of Amy Winehouse and Norah Jones but with a pop-edge. It is a performance not to be missed.
Oliver’s Venables Theatre will feature The Kristi Neumann Band and solo artist Bianca Berkland as part of their Local Artist Series who will both be performing on the evening of Valentine’s Day Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for both acts. Call the theatre at 250-498-1626 for more information.
