Saskatoon - McNally’s Books (8th & Circle)

June 26, 2006

7-8pm - FREE - in-store show - with CD signing following

Musical Muskoka

June 19, 2006

We’re gearing up for the start of rehearsals for a musical, with Theatre Muskoka in Port Carling this summer. It’s called Pump Boys and Dinettes - and is a musical review show heaped with country/rock/blues songs, set in a diner and gas station both staffed by singing/dancing employees. My character sings and plays piano - go figure……. I was reading the score the other day and noticed that I have a tap dance solo in one of the songs - THAT in itself will be worth the price of admission folks - my LORD. I already have several people making the trip from Toronto just to see that one number! If you’re going to be in Muskoka between July 12-24 come and check this out. You can get more info and book tickets at:link.
I also get to sing a song called ‘The night Dolly Parton was almost mine’ - and for those of you who know my Dolly obsession, you’ll know that this is a dream come true!!! See you in cottage country.

New York, New York…

June 13, 2006

Well the Outmusic awards in New York this weekend were an absolute blast. Although I didn’t receive the award in the category that I was nominated in, I was a gracious, awesome loser!! But really - I did have a great showcase on Friday at Rockwood Music Hall - the music was well received - & thanks to all who bought CDs. What a beautiful room - I loved it - and it was a priviledge to share the stage with some amazing talent. I’m still amazed that Stephen Schwartz was sitting there the whole night. Met some wonderful people, and am now talking with a few about expanding my music into the U.S. through booking and distribution. Shout out to Roger for letting me crash all weekend, at the place in Hell’s Kitchen. Ed M. your organizationa ablities are mighty!

Magic 98.3FM & a few recent shows

June 6, 2006

Did a nice little interview with Matt Bradley at Saskatoon’s 98.3FM (Saskatoon) today. They’re playing a few tunes off the album, and will run the interview in the coming weeks. Stay tuned. (Thanks Matt!) The last few shows we did (Fort Qu’Appelle, Yorkton, Houseworks Gallery, Raymore) went really well. Thanks to all who turned out. The coffee at Roca Jacks in Fort Qu’appelle was yummy, the acoustics in Yorkton were brilliant, and the wine & sushi at the gallery opening were excellent!! Off to New York this Thurs night for a showcase on Friday and the OMA awards on Sunday. Songs from Highway 15 has been nominated for Recording of the Year. It’ll be a fun weekend in the Big Apple. Thanks in advance to Kris and Roger for the place to crash!

Redvers, SK - Redvers and District Arts Council

June 1, 2006

Redvers, SK - 2pm Matinee - Brought to you by the Redvers and District Arts Council. Details to follow.

Southey SK - Vocal Workshop

June 1, 2006

I’ll be conducting a vocal workshop for voice students in the area (in conjunction with the Last Mountain District Music Festival Association). I’m really looking forward to hearing all the great singing and working with everyone on delivery, technique and performance. Feel free to shoot me an e-mail if you have any questions about this one!

jeff@jeffstraker.com

Esterhazy - songwriting workshop

June 1, 2006

Esterhazy school songwriting workshop - 1:15-2:15
As part of the concert series, taking place this evening at the Maple Leaf theatre I’m doing a songwriting workshop with senior students in Esterhazy. Looking forward to it!

Humboldt Collegiate Institute

June 1, 2006

Guest in Creative Writing Class @ Humboldt Collegiate Institute