Blog Archives | Mariposa Folk Festival

Mariposa Folk Festival announces first live event of the year, presenting Matchedash Parish on August 22, 2021 at 7:30pm at the Orillia Opera House as part of the Kinaxis InConcert series

Posted on August 5, 2021August 5, 2021

Orillia, Ontario – August 5, 2021 –

Mariposa Folk Festival is excited to announce that it will be presenting Matchedash Parish on August 22, 2021 at 7:30pm at the Orillia Opera House as part of the Kinaxis InConcert series. It is fitting that Lance Anderson and Matchedash Parish will help launch Mariposa’s return to live music as its last live performance featured Lance.

Mariposa Folk Festival was selected by Kinaxis and Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA) as one of thirty organizations across the country to host a Kinaxis InConcert program. With the support of the Kinaxis and CLMA sponsorship , Mariposa will also present a free stream of the concert on its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/MariposaFolkFestivalOfficial) on August 27^th at 7:30pm. Fans of Mariposa, Lance and Matchedash Parish will not want to miss this amazing opportunity.

Matchedash Parish is a powerhouse band, featuring 12 of Canada’s top blues and roots artists, performing original songs – a joyful explosion of soul, blues and roots music!

Juno award-winning producer Lance Anderson has brought together this diverse and multi-generational roster of all-stars to perform original songs written by Anderson and Kitchener phenom, Matt Weidinger.

The group’s debut CD, Saturday Night, produced by Anderson, captures the raw energy and positive vibe of this remarkable band, featuring Weidinger’s stunning vocals, along with three amazing background singers, led by R&B vocalist Quisha Wint.

Matchedash Parish’s premiere performance was as the festival closer on the main stage of the 2018 Mariposa Folk Festival, where the audience was moved to numerous standing ovations. In 2019, the band wowed festival audiences at the Montreal International Jazz Festival, Mont Tremblant International Blues Fest, and Kitchener Blues Fest.

Tickets for the live show will be available from the Orillia Opera House as of August 5 at 11:00am online at www.orilliaoperahouse.ca or by phoning the box office at 705-326-8011. Tickets are $30, including HST and service charges and will be limited in number due to COVID protocols.

About Mariposa Folk Festival

Canada’s most iconic music event, the Mariposa Folk Festival was first held in Orillia in 1961. It later moved to Toronto and other sites in Ontario until returning home in 2000 to Orillia. The three-day festival is a family-friendly celebration of song, story, dance and craft in the bucolic setting of Tudhope Park.

Over 60 artists play on 11 stages throughout the park including a pub stage, with outstanding evening main stage performances. Special areas for children’s activities, artisans, and food vendors make Mariposa a magical experience for people of all ages. For more information, visit www.mariposafolk.com .

Media Contact:

Chris Hazel

officemanager@mariposafolk.com

705-326-3655

Mariposa Folk Festival and Sawdust City Brewing Company are ready to celebrate summer with the re-launch of Mariposa Sun Lager on June 3rd – this year with a social mission

Posted on June 1, 2021June 1, 2021

ORILLIA & GRAVENHURST, ONTARIO (JUNE 1, 2021) – In 2020, Mariposa Folk Festival and Sawdust City Brewing Company teamed up to create Mariposa Sun Lager.

“We can’t be together at the Mariposa Folk Festival again this year. But we can still share a Mariposa Sun Lager – at a distance – turn up the music, and dream of next year’s festival at Tudhope Park in Orillia,” said Mariposa Folk Foundation President, Pam Carter.

Mariposa’s twice-cancelled folk festival is symptomatic of the devastation felt across the live music industry. Therefore, Sawdust City and Mariposa will donate a portion of every sale of Mariposa Sun Lager to Unison Fund, Canada’s music industry charity.

“Supporting Unison means helping artists, production crews, and the entire live music ecosystem. When we’re allowed to gather again for live music, Mariposa will be ready, and we want all of our friends in the industry to be there with us. We’re all in this together!” added Carter.

This super drinkable, light lager is made with flaked corn, Canadian pale 2-row malt, and a touch of German pilsner malt. The result is a clean, crisp, classic light lager, perfect for enjoying with your favourite tunes outside on a sunny day.

Starting on June 3^rd, the brew is available at the Sawdust City Brewing Company retail location in Gravenhurst, Ontario or can be ordered online at www.SawdustCityBrewing.com. The tasty brew sold out quickly last summer so production will be doubled for 2021.

With a celebrated track record of tasty and flavourful ales, porters, stouts, sours, IPAs, and more, Sawdust City is proud to continue the tradition of precision craft brewing with the release of Mariposa Sun Lager.

“This is the ideal summer lager,” said Sam Corbeil, Sawdust City Brewmaster. “When discussing this collaboration with our partners at Mariposa we were inspired to create something flavourful yet sessionable, that captures the unique spirit of the Mariposa Folk Festival. So we did our collective thing – seeking out the perfect balance of ingredients and producing a beer with classic lager characteristics. It’s a labour of love when it all comes together like it has for Mariposa Sun Lager.”

The beer’s name and label are nods to the magical Mariposa moments that have been shared for more than 60 plus years. “Everyone who has attended the festival would agree, there is nothing like a Mariposa sunset, a hippie van in the distance, acoustic guitars strumming, and people singing along,” said Mariposa Folk Foundation Vice-president Ken Rovinelli. “We wanted to capture that vibe in both the beer and the branding.”

Brewed in a small batch and available for a limited time, Mariposa Sun Lager has a 4.2% alcohol by volume and is brewed to be enjoyed fresh, which means directly from the fridge or cooler in back yards, on patios, at campsites or at beaches with folk music playing in the background.

#mariposacheers

Unison Fund, Canada’s music industry charity, provides counselling and emergency relief services to the Canadian music community in times of hardship or difficulties. For over a decade, Unison has been committed to helping producers, engineers, singers/songwriters, musicians, production crews, and thousands more through our financial assistance and counselling and health solutions programs. For more information, please visit: www.unisonfund.ca. If you can, PLEASE make a donation by visiting www.unisonfund.ca or text the word ‘UNISON’ to 45678 and follow the prompts to donate $10, $20, or $25. Every donation counts. Every donation helps. Let’s keep Canadian music and entertainment ALIVE.

Mariposa Folk Foundation announces video documentary honouring John Prine

Posted on December 15, 2020December 15, 2020

Mariposa Folk Festival is releasing a special documentary video to honour the life and career of John Prine, legendary songwriter and winner of the 2020 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Mariposa Virtual Stage will be hosting this 30-minute video, titled “Episode 4” on Mariposa’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/MariposaFolkFestivalOfficial) at 8:00pm on Tuesday, December 15^th.

For those who miss the launch event, the video will also be available on Mariposa’s website at www.mariposafolk.com.

Episode 4 will be hosted by Tre Burt, critically acclaimed folk singer on John Prine’s Oh Boy record label, and also features Mariposa favourites: Birds of Chicago, performing a Prine classic. The video includes tremendous footage of John Prine, and some special appearances from his legion of friends.

These Mariposa Virtual Stage’s “Episodes” are unlike any other online concerts, as they pay homage to folk and Mariposa legends by combining rare and unearthed archival footage with compelling contemporary performances.

The Episodes are a celebration of the Mariposa Folk Festival’s 60^th anniversary and another example of Mariposa remaining “true to our roots – for generations to come”.

Mariposa Folk Foundation announces release of Video Vignette celebrating Buffy Sainte-Marie

Posted on December 15, 2020December 15, 2020

Mariposa Folk Festival, in co-promotion with imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival, is releasing a video vignette showcasing the music and history of the legendary Buffy Sainte-Marie. The Mariposa Virtual Stage will be hosting this short video, titled “Episode 3” on Mariposa’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/MariposaFolkFestivalOfficial) at 8:00pm on Wednesday, November 18^th. For those who miss the launch event, the vignette will also be available on Mariposa’s website at www.mariposafolk.com.

These Mariposa Virtual Stage’s “Episodes” are unlike any other online concerts, as they pay homage to folk and Mariposa legends by combining rare and unearthed archival footage with compelling contemporary performances. The Episodes are a celebration of the Mariposa Folk Festival’s 60^th anniversary and another example of Mariposa remaining “true to our roots – for generations to come”. Episode 3 will be hosted by CBC Radio One’s The Next Chapter Producer and Host Shelagh Rogers. It features historical footage of Buffy Sainte-Marie from the 1960’s to the present day. Celeigh Cardinal, winner of the 2020 Juno Award for Indigenous Artist of the Year, adds a powerful, personal performance of Buffy’s classic anthem “Universal Soldier”.

Mariposa Folk Festival 2021 Tickets

Posted on November 2, 2020November 2, 2020

This year has been filled with challenges, for Mariposa and for our whole community. We have tried to make the best of the situation by producing a series of virtual concerts and videos, but we all really want to get back to live music.

With our eyes wide open, we are planning for the 2021 festival, scheduled for July 9-11 at Tudhope Park. The health and safety of our patrons, volunteers, artists and community are paramount, so we will be ready to change plans in accordance with any health authority recommendations in place at the time.

Our 2021 tickets are on sale on our website and our early bird prices are the same as last year. If the festival has to be cancelled, full refunds would be available. If capacity is restricted at the festival, due to health and safety rules or recommendations, priority for attendance will be based on date of purchase, and refunds will be issued to those who cannot be admitted .

If you don’t feel ready to commit to a ticket purchase just yet, we understand. You may consider other ways of supporting Mariposa – buying a $25 membership (which comes with a free compilation CD), joining our e-mail list, or making a donation. With the holiday season approaching, what better gift could there be than a Mariposa membership – supporting the arts and giving a great CD!

Buy tickets or memberships

Donate to Mariposa

Join our Mailing List

Mariposa plans to be here when the pandemic retreats, better than ever and “true to our roots, for generations to come”.

If you purchased tickets through the office for the 2020 festival and deferred those tickets to 2021, please contact the office (705-326-3655) to arrange for pick-up or mailing of your 2021 tickets.

If you purchased your 2020 tickets online and deferred those tickets to 2021, then you don’t need to take any further action – your tickets will be emailed to you in May 2021.

Mariposa Folk Foundation Announces Release of Joni Mitchell Vignette and Future Virtual Episodes

Posted on October 15, 2020October 15, 2020

Orillia, Ontario – October 13, 2020

Mariposa Folk Festival has announced that it is releasing a short video vignette showcasing the music and legend of Joni Mitchell. The Mariposa Virtual Stage will be hosting this 15-minute video, titled “Episode 2” on Mariposa’s Facebook page at 8:00pm EDT, on Thursday, October 15^th. For those who miss the launch event, the vignette will also be available on Mariposa’s website at www.mariposafolk.com.

Episode 2 will be hosted by CBC Radio One’s The Next Chapter Producer and Host Shelagh Rogers. It features rare, remarkable footage of Joni Mitchell performing her classic “Both Sides Now” at the 1969 Mariposa Folk Festival, taken from the CBC Documentary, Mariposa: A Folk Festival. Contemporary folk duo, Harrow Fair (Miranda Mulholland and Andrew Penner) add a touching and poignant performance of Joni’s “A Case of You”.

Episode 3, coming in November, will celebrate Buffy Sainte-Marie, with a contemporary performance by Juno Award winner Celeigh Cardinal. It will be a co-promotion with the wonderful ImagiNative Film + Media Arts Festival, which is online this year, October 20-25, 2020 (https://festival.imaginenative.org/). An exciting Episode 4 is in the works as well.

After making the decision to cancel this year’s festival due to COVID-19, the Mariposa Virtual Stage aspires to keep the festival’s community and patrons engaged and musically satisfied until the festival’s return. Mariposa President Pam Carter says, “We all missed getting together this summer for the Mariposa Folk Festival, but the Mariposa Virtual Stage Episodes provide an opportunity to celebrate our 60-year history, entertain our loyal fans, and enjoy great music together in the safest way possible”.

Audiences are encouraged to share their music-viewing experience using the hashtag #MariposaVirtualStage on social media.

About Mariposa Folk Festival

Media Contact:

Chris Hazel

officemanager@mariposafolk.com

705-326-3655

The Mariposa Folk Foundation Announces Mariposa Virtual Festival 2020 – a free online concert on the Mariposa Virtual Stage

Posted on July 2, 2020July 10, 2020

Mariposa Folk Festival

Orillia, Ontario – July 2, 2020 –

Mariposa Folk Festival is excited to announce that, although its 60^th anniversary festival was cancelled this summer, it is bringing a taste of Mariposa to our loyal fans. On Sunday, July 5^th at 7pm Mariposa will release Mariposa Virtual Festival 2020 – a free online concert on the Mariposa Virtual Stage.

The stellar lineup for the Virtual Festival includes a “workshop” featuring The Small Glories, OKAN, and Mimi O’Bonsawin. Following the workshop, there will be two performances, featuring Blackie & The Rodeo Kings and This Way North. The Virtual Festival will be hosted by regular main stage host, and long-time friend of Mariposa – Treasa Levasseur.

Mariposa’s Artistic Director, Liz Scott says, “The Sunday show features a talented, diverse lineup of familiar performers plus some new discoveries. We’re excited to host these performers at the Mariposa Virtual Festival 2020.”

The Mariposa Virtual Stage will present this free, pre-recorded Virtual Festival as an online watch party on Mariposa’s Facebook page at 7pm on July 5^th. The Concert will also be available as a link on Mariposa’s website shortly after the live launch: www.mariposafolk.com.

Mariposa Folk Foundation President, Pam Carter says, “We wish we could all be together in person at Tudhope Park this weekend, celebrating Mariposa’s 60^th anniversary. But we are hopeful that this presentation of the Virtual Festival on the Mariposa Virtual Stage will give our patrons, sponsors, and volunteers a reason to sit back, listen to some fantastic music, and dream of returning to the Mariposa Folk Festival next summer.”

Audiences are encouraged to share their music-viewing experience using the hashtag #MariposaVirtualStage on social media.

About Mariposa Folk Festival

Media Contact:

Chris Hazel

officemanager@mariposafolk.com

705-326-3655

Mariposa Folk Festival Takes The Virtual Stage For Summer 2020

Posted on June 23, 2020July 10, 2020

Orillia, Ontario – June 23, 2020 – Mariposa Folk Festival has announced, that for the first time in its 60-year history, it will be hosting a free online concert series over the coming months called Mariposa Virtual Stage. Episode 1, hosted by CBC Radio One’s The Next Chapter Producer and Host Shelagh Rogers, will launch Sunday, June 28 at 8:00pm EST, with an online watch party on Mariposa’s Facebook page. For those who miss the launch event, the concert will also be available on Mariposa’s newly designed website at: www.mariposafolk.com.

After making the decision to cancel this year’s festival due to COVID-19, the Mariposa Virtual Stage aspires to keep the festival’s community and patrons engaged and musically satisfied until next summer. “With an incredible line-up and a meaningful milestone, it was difficult to make the call, however it had to be done”, Mariposa President Pam Carter says about making the decision to cancel this year’s festival. “We value the passion and commitment of the Mariposa community, so we’re excited to announce an online concert series that will keep spirits up and allow the community to celebrate music together in the safest way possible”.

Episode 1 is a 20-minute video, paying homage to folk legend and Mariposa veteran Gordon Lightfoot. Audiences will get the opportunity to listen to an unreleased recording of Lightfoot’s 1964 Mariposa performance of ‘Early Morning Rain’. The second part of Episode 1 features Canadian acoustic-folk duo Dala. The Juno nominees bring a fresh sound of acoustic pop and will pay tribute to the folk legend by performing their rendition of ‘If You Could Read My Mind’.

Unlike any other online concert, Mariposa Virtual Stage will combine contemporary performances with never before seen archival recordings and materials. Each Episode will consist of short pre-recorded online performances, with contemporary performers paying tribute to some of the folk legends who graced the Mariposa stage over the years. The Mariposa Virtual Stage will also host one longer concert, which will feature special headliners and a Mariposa-inspired workshop.

Carter is confident that this first-ever online series will benefit the festival in the future saying, “With Mariposa Virtual Stage, we want to kick-start the 60th anniversary celebration which will continue next summer in 2021. Mariposa Virtual Stage will be another example of remaining true to our roots – for generations to come”.

Audiences are encouraged to share their music-viewing experience using the hashtag #MariposaVirtualStage on social media.

About Mariposa Folk Festival

Media Contact:

Chris Hazel

officemanager@mariposafolk.com

705-326-3655

Mariposa Folk Festival in partnership with Sawdust City Brewing Company launches Mariposa Sun Lager

Posted on June 11, 2020July 10, 2020

Mariposa Folk Festival in partnership with Sawdust City Brewing Company alleviate some of the pain due to cancelled festivals with the launch of Mariposa Sun Lager – a perfect light lager for the sunny summer days of 2020.

ORILLIA & GRAVENHURST, ONTARIO (JUNE 11, 2020) – Mariposa Folk Festival and Sawdust City Brewing Company have teamed up to create Mariposa Sun Lager. The beer was brewed for the now cancelled 60th anniversary festival but is ready to drink, and a good beer waits for no one.

“We can’t be together at the Mariposa Folk Festival this year. But we can still share a Mariposa Sun Lager – at a distance – turn up the music, and dream of next year’s festival at Tudhope Park in Orillia,” said Mariposa Folk Foundation President, Pam Carter.

“It’s important that we find ways to stay connected in this trying year. So let’s raise a glass (or a can) to each other and share a remote-cheers. We’re all in this together!” added Carter.

This super drinkable, light lager is made with flaked corn, Canadian pale 2-row malt, and a touch of German pilsner malt. The result is a clean, crisp, classic light lager, perfect for enjoying with your favourite tunes outside on a sunny day.

The brew is available at the Sawdust City Brewing Company retail location in Gravenhurst, Ontario or can be ordered online at www.SawdustCityBrewing.com.

With a celebrated track record of tasty and flavourful ales, porters, stouts, sours, IPAs, and more, Sawdust City is proud to continue the tradition of precision craft brewing with the release of Mariposa Sun Lager.

“This is the ideal summer lager,” said Sam Corbeil, Sawdust City Brewmaster. “When discussing this collaboration with our partners at Mariposa we were inspired to create something flavourful yet really crushable, that captures the unique spirit of the Mariposa Folk Festival. So we did our collective thing – seeking out the perfect balance of ingredients and producing a beer with classic lager characteristics. It’s a labour of love when it all comes together like it has for Mariposa Sun Lager.”

The beer’s name and label are nods to the magical Mariposa moments that have been shared over the past 60 years. “Everyone who has attended the festival would agree, there is nothing like a Mariposa sunset, a hippie van in the distance, acoustic guitars strumming, and people singing along,” said Mariposa Folk Foundation Vice-president Ken Rovinelli. “We wanted to capture that vibe in both the beer and the branding.”

Brewed in a small batch and available for a limited time, Mariposa Sun Lager has a 4.2% alcohol by volume and is brewed to be enjoyed fresh, which means directly from the fridge or cooler in back yards, on patios, at campsites or at beaches with folk music playing in the background.

#mariposacheers

Mariposa Folk Festival 2020 Cancelled Due to Coronavirus

Posted on April 21, 2020

Today, organizers of the storied Mariposa Folk Festival announced the cancellation of this year’s festival scheduled for July 3-5, 2020, due to the Coronavirus.

During the past many weeks, Mariposa Folk Foundation had been in regular communication with public health and other authorities, the festival community, artist managers, core organizing volunteers and members of the production team, and determined that cancellation is the only appropriate course of action.

The festival had planned to celebrate its 60^th anniversary this year with one of the strongest lineups assembled in decades. It included a rare talent and true original loved and cherished by fans, John Prine, who sadly passed away due to COVID-19 on April 7^th. Also on the bill were the iconic Mavis Staples, highly acclaimed Serena Ryder, Mandolin Orange, and dozens of other luminaries on the Canadian, North American and international folk music scenes.

In a statement issued to the media, the organization stated that its top priority is the health and safety of the audience, artists, volunteers and other supporters. It also stated that, even though the festival is still 2 ½ months away, organizers felt that the announcement should be made as early as possible to allow interested parties and ticketholders maximum time to plan accordingly. At its April 20th meeting, the City of Orillia Emergency Management Committee extended the restriction against such public gatherings within the municipality, and it now encompasses the weekend of Mariposa Folk Festival.

Mariposa is offering ticket purchasers a full refund, a deferral for 2021 festival tickets, or the option of donating ticket purchases back to the festival, a non-profit organization and a registered charity. Donations can also be made via Canada Helps.

The President of the Mariposa Folk Foundation and Festival Chair, Pam Carter, stated “It’s very disappointing that we’ll all miss Mariposa Folk Festival this summer, especially considering the incredible lineup and the record-setting early ticket sales, but we are already planning for a fantastic return on July 9-11, 2021”.

Artistic Director, Liz Scott, stated “It was exciting building this lineup of amazing musicians and of course it’s disheartening that we won’t be able to gather together to watch it all unfold. But when we do get back together in July 2021, everything will seem sweeter”.

Serena Ryder Joins the Mariposa Lineup

Posted on March 3, 2020

An already strong lineup for the 60th anniversary of Mariposa Folk Festival got a big boost today with the addition of multiple Juno Award-winner, Serena Ryder.

Ryder is an acclaimed artist who has charted many times in the U.S. and Canada, and is known for her raw talent, song writing flair, electric live performances and stunning three-octave vocal range. Included among her collection of hit tunes are Got Your Number, What I Wouldn’t Do, Good Morning Starshine, Weak in the Knees and Stompa.

Commenting on Ryder’s upcoming appearance at Mariposa Folk Festival, Festival Artistic Director, Liz Scott, stated, “Serena Ryder is a versatile, powerful performer whose live shows range from dynamic, rocking pop tunes to sweet ballads and everything in between”.

Scott Added, “She made a handful of very memorable appearances at Mariposa Folk Festival very early in her career, and we are excited to welcome her back after a decade-long absence to help us celebrate Mariposa’s 60th anniversary”.

Mariposa Folk Festival previously announced that John Prine, Mavis Staples and Mandolin Orange will perform on the festival Main Stage. The festival has announced about 30, or just over half, of the artists on this year’s roster, so far. More exciting lineup announcements will be made in the coming weeks.

The three-day Mariposa Folk Festival takes place July 3-5, 2020, in Orillia, Ontario, on more than ten stages, featuring top folk-roots music presentation, along with presentations of story, dance and craft.

All ticket categories are on sale. Kids 12 & under are admitted free. There is special pricing for youth and young adults. Onsite RV and tent camping is available.

Mandolin Orange Added to the 60th Anniversary Lineup

Posted on February 25, 2020

Mariposa Folk Festival has announced the addition of Mandolin Orange to the 60th anniversary artistic lineup.

This Americana roots duo has helped to redefine the genre for a younger generation, blending storytelling with acoustic elements of bluegrass, folk and country, and amassing an impressive fan base through live shows and online streaming.

Festival Artistic Director, Liz Scott, says she “…first saw Mandolin Orange at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival five years ago when the husband and wife team was in their mid-twenties, and fell in love with their intimate harmonies and sweet-toned folk and bluegrass-tinged vibes.”

Scott added, “Now their songs are at the top of playlists everywhere and they’re loved by audiences of all ages, and they’re bringing their full band to Mariposa.”

Mariposa Folk Festival previously announced that John Prine and Mavis Staples will perform on the festival Main Stage, and has, so far, unveiled about 2/3 of the artists that will perform at the 60th anniversary festival. More exciting lineup announcements will be made in the coming weeks.

The three-day Mariposa Folk Festival takes place July 3-5, 2020, in Orillia, Ontario, on more than ten stages, and features top folk-roots music presentation, along with presentations of story, dance and craft.

All ticket categories are on sale. Kids 12 & under are admitted free. The festival has special pricing for youth and young adults. Onsite RV and tent camping is available.

The Iconic Mavis Staples Joins the Lineup

Posted on January 28, 2020

Mariposa Folk Festival has announced that the iconic R&B and gospel singer and civil rights activist, Mavis Staples, is joining the 60th anniversary festival lineup.

With a career spanning the social, political and musical eras of the past six decades, Mavis Staples’ distinctive voice has been sampled on recordings by some of the biggest selling artists and she has recorded with many celebrated peers of the 20th and 21st centuries.

According to Artistic Director, Liz Scott, “Mavis Staples is a true Americana treasure, a unique vocalist, a wonderful personality and a sheer delight in live performance. Festival goers are going to witness firsthand the power of Mavis and why she remains a rousing, relevant and
in-demand artist”.

Previously, Mariposa Folk Festival announced that the rare talent, true original and revered songwriter, John Prine, will join the Main Stage. Mariposa looks forward to announcing the addition of some celebrated Canadian artists in the coming weeks.

The three-day Mariposa Folk Festival takes place July 3-5, 2020, in Orillia, Ontario, on more than ten stages featuring top folk-roots music presentation, along with presentations of story, dance and craft.

All ticket categories are on sale. Kids 12 & under are admitted free. The festival has special pricing for youth and young adults. Onsite RV and tent camping is available.

John Prine Coming to Mariposa

Posted on November 7, 2019

Mariposa Folk Festival is kicking-off the announcements for this summer’s lineup with a very big bang.

The rare talent, true original and revered songwriter, John Prine, has signed-on to help celebrate the 60th anniversary of Mariposa Folk Festival taking place July 3-5, 2020.

Prine is one of the most often requested artists by festival attendees and has been high on Mariposa’s artistic wish list for many years.

Artistic Director, Liz Scott, exclaimed, “Few artists have achieved the significance of this rare talent and true original, and his fans are absolutely devout. I am thrilled to welcome John Prine to the Mariposa Main Stage this year, on the heels of another award-winning, highly-acclaimed album.”

Mariposa Folk Foundation President and Festival Chair, Pam Carter, stated, “It’s our 60th anniversary festival, and presenting music icon John Prine is a wonderful way proclaim Mariposa’s storied past”. Carter added, “Our programming will also reflect Mariposa’s importance on Canada’s music scene as a contemporary folk festival”.

The three-day Mariposa Folk Festival features more than ten stages of top folk-roots music, along with presentations of story, dance and craft. All ticket categories are on sale. Kids 12 & under are admitted free. The festival has special pricing for youth and young adults. Onsite RV and tent camping is available.

Album Release Party at Mariposa Folk Festival

Posted on June 16, 2019

You’re invited to a party at Mariposa Folk Festival. What could be more fun than that? Join with VK & Legends of THE DEEP in the Mariposa Pub Tent on Sunday, July 7^th, 10:45 p.m., to close-out the festival and celebrate the release of their new album, Charm, with fans, friends and family.

VK is the husband and wife team of Steve and Marni Van Kessel. Legends of THE DEEP is a talented collection of musicians, Jamey Heidman (bass), John Lebarr (guitar), Sean Murray (keys) and Roger Stanley (drums), who channel each other’s verve for truly great performances.

VK emerged from the local music scene about a decade ago and have been striking all the right notes ever since, putting out songs receiving critical attention, including from Blues and Roots Radio Worldwide, and building a loyal audience. With three albums to date, their own recording studio and indie label called 112 Records, VK has also been an important factor in the careers of other local musicians, helping them gain a foothold and build momentum.

The genesis of Charm was in 2018 when VK formed Legends of THE DEEP for the live release of their second album Terms & Conditions. This grouping of musicians proved providential and it inspired the bluesy, Americana folk-rock vibe of the new album. Recorded over the long winter months of 2019, the sound and style are rooted in the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s tunes of their formative years, yet the themes and lyrics are relevant to folks two decades into the 21^st century.

The Mariposa Pub Tent show of VK & Legends of THE DEEP promises a truly special experience for fans of honest to goodness, well-crafted, lush-sounding Americana-folk-rock-blues music. Come to the show and help Steve, Marni and the guys celebrate this important milestone.

You can also see the whole group Saturday, July 6^th, 12:00 pm, at the Downtown Stage, and you can see Steve and Marni as part of the Character Sketches Workshop on Sunday, July 7^th, 3:50 pm, on the Barnfield Stage.

Half Moon Run Coming to Mariposa

Posted on June 13, 2019

Mariposa Folk Festival announced the addition of Half Moon Run to the artistic lineup today, bolstering an already impressive roster of performers for the iconic music festival taking place July 5-7, 2019, in Orillia, Ontario, on the shores of scenic Lake Couchiching.

The music of Half Moon Run is often described as dreamy alt-pop, bucolic alt-folk, and psychedelic indie rock. Armed with classical training and omnivorous influences, they build on cerebral, acrobatic arrangements and harmonies, lilting prettily in one moment then feral the next.

Mariposa’s Artistic Director, Liz Scott exclaimed that she is, “Super excited to add Montreal’s Half Moon Run to Friday night’s lineup. Their shows take audiences on a dreamy and layered alt-folk/rock journey. They are magnetic performers with a mesmerizing, world-class live show.”

Also on the festival bill are A Leverage for Mountains, Amélie et Les Singes Bleus, Birds of Chicago, Boogát, Brooke Palsson, Carole Pope, Christine Lavin, Còig, Colter Wall, Corin Raymond, Courtney Marie Andrews, Danny Michel, Dave Gunning, Deeps, Dennis Ellsworth, Digging Roots, É.T.É, Fred Penner, Freddy & Francine, Hawksley Workman, House Of David Gang, James Gray, Jason Isbell, Jennifer Castle, Jeremy Fisher, Jim Bryson, Julian Taylor Band, Justin Nozuka, Kalyna Rakel, Lee Harvey Osmond, Los Pachamama y Flor Amargo, Martin Sexton, Martyn Joseph, Melanie Brulée, My Son The Hurricane, Pondercast with Laurie Brown, Ralph, Scott Cook, Shakura S’Aida, Sharon and Bram & Friends, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Stars, Steve Poltz, Terra Lightfoot, The Burning Hell, The Confabulation, The Connors Brothers, The Doozies, The Ennis Sisters, The Free Label, The Layrite Boys, The Lifers, The LYNNeS, The Sorority, The Suitcase Junket, Tom Cochrane with Red Rider, Tony McManus and Julia Toaspern, Union Duke, VK & Legends of THE DEEP, and Ziggy Alberts.

The three-day Mariposa Folk Festival features more than ten stages of the best folk-roots music on the North American scene, along with story, dance and craft. Tickets are selling fast. Kids 12 & under admitted free. Special hot ticket pricing for youth and young adults.

Owen McBride to be Inducted into the Mariposa Hall of Fame

Posted on May 16, 2019

Born in Ireland, Owen McBride arrived in Canada in 1963. Literally, within a matter of days he was performing at folk clubs and coffee houses in Toronto’s booming folk scene. As luck would have it, Estelle Klein, the artistic director of the Mariposa Folk Festival, saw Owen perform and was immediately captivated by the young musician/storyteller. From 1964 until the mid-eighties, he was a perennial performer at Mariposa, experiencing its moves from Maple Leaf Stadium to Innis Lake to Toronto Island and even to Barrie Molson Park. Then, in 2010 Owen returned for the fiftieth anniversary of the festival and appeared again 2011, 2016 and 2017.

Owen also appeared at the other major festivals around North America. His rich voice, traditional repertoire and genial personality both on and off-stage helped to make him a key figure in North American folk circles. In 1970, the New York Times called his Irish and Scottish ballads at the Philadelphia Folk Festival “sentimental and boozy.” (In a good way, we assume!)

He is also an accomplished storyteller who has appeared on CBC and various story telling festivals in Canada and the USA. Owen’s contributions to folk music – and to Mariposa Folk Festival specifically – are reason enough to endorse his induction into the Mariposa Hall of Fame this year. Owen will be inducted along with The Travellers and Sharon, Lois and Bram.

The Travellers to be Inducted into the Mariposa Hall of Fame

Posted on May 15, 2019July 28, 2020

If you are a Canadian, you know our version of Woody Guthrie’s classic This Land is Your Land – where Vancouver Island, Bonavista and the Arctic Circle are cited instead of the New York Island, California and the Gulfstream waters. We can thank the Travellers for that national treasure of a song, which they altered and made into a genuine Canadian folk song (and a hit record.)

The Travellers grew out of folk singing sessions at Camp Naivelt, a Jewish socialist vacation community west of Brampton in the 1950s. Modeling themselves after Pete Seeger’s group The Weavers, the band had tremendous success in a nation that seemed reluctant to promote home-grown talent. Led over the years by banjo player Jerry Grey, the group has had many members come and go over the years. Sid Dolgay, one of the founders of the Mariposa Folk Festival, played the mandicello in the group for a number of years. Joe Hampson, husband of Sharon Hampson of Sharon, Lois and Bram fame, was another key member.

The group produced several popular records in the fifties and sixties and toured extensively across Canada. In 1962 they were part of a cultural exchange with the Soviet Union and toured parts of Russia. They played for Queen Elizabeth during her 1964 tour of Canada. In 1967 they played at Expo 67 in Montreal and in 1970 represented Canada at Expo 70 in Osaka Japan. They entertained Canadian military units in Germany and Cypress and were equally at home on university campuses. The group made numerous radio and television appearances over the years on shows such as Haunted Studio, Pick the Stars, and had five television specials of their own. They received a Juno nomination for their children’s record Merry-Go-Round in 1980. In 200, a National Film Board documentary chronicled the band’s history.

When the Mariposa Folk Festival began in 1961, The Travellers were the headline act and they repeatedly appeared over the next several years: 1962, 1963, 1968, 1990, 1993, 1995, and of course in 2000 at the first festival back in Orillia in over 37 years. Over their long career, the group has sung about and promoted values related to labour solidarity, peace, civil rights and social justice – values also espoused by the Mariposa Folk Festival. Therefore it is fitting to finally see The Travellers inducted into the festival’s Hall of Fame in 2019 alongside Sharon, Lois and Bram and Owen McBride.

By Mike Hill

In 2010, Jerry Gray of The Travellers conducted the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s unique rendition of This Land Is Your Land.

Tell Us Your Volunteer Story

Posted on May 13, 2019

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Mariposa Folk Festival back in Orillia. To help mark the occasion, we are collecting interesting volunteer stories for possible inclusion at a special Volunteer Recognition Display.

If you have a good volunteer story, please tell it to us. If you have more than one, or even several, please tell them all, but please limit your stories to 250 words each. If you could accompany your story with a digital photo, that would be awesome. Make sure to include your full name, volunteer team or role, and the approximate year your story took place.

The stories will be curated, and the selected stories will be attributed to you and assembled in a Volunteer Memories Display during the Festival. Some of these stories may also be shared on our social media platforms.

By virtue of submitting a story, you are authorizing the Mariposa Folk Foundation to publish it. All those who submitted a story will be entered into a random draw for a $50 gift certificate.

Please submit your story by June 21st, 2019, but the sooner the better. All stories and photo attachments should be submitted to reception@mariposafolk.com. Please write “Volunteer Story” in the subject line.

We are sure there are lots of entertaining Mariposa volunteer stories to be told. Please tell us yours!

Sharon, Lois and Bram to be Inducted into the Mariposa Hall of Fame

Posted on May 9, 2019

It began at Mariposa in the 1970s and it appears that it will be ending at the 2019 Festival in Orillia.

Sharon and Bram, two of Canada’s best-known troubadours, are retiring.

“Because it’s time,” said Bram Morrison. At an age well beyond the normal retirement age, the duo has finally decided that it’s time to pass the baton to younger musicians.

Sharon, Lois and Bram – this country’s best-known folk group “for families” – has had a remarkable career and lasting impact on Canadian culture. Over forty years ago the trio began touring Canada and the United States, sharing their wholesome and eclectic style of music with children, their parents and grandparents. They became a duo in 1999 when Lois, who passed away in 2015, retired from touring. By means of records, television shows and especially live concerts, the musicians spread their happy and positive gift of song to several generations. Sharon and Bram find that they are playing for multiple generations at their concerts: children, parents, grandparents and even occasional great-grandparents.

Their contribution to Canadian culture has not gone unnoticed. All three are members of the Order of Canada. They’ve received myriad awards and accolades, including Folk Music Canada’s Estelle Klein Award (named after the legendary artistic director of the Mariposa Folk Festival,) the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals, numerous television awards and even Honorary Doctorates from Mount Saint Vincent University. They have played key roles with UNICEF, were honoured by a breakfast with Bill and Hillary Clinton at the White House and even have a playground bearing their names in Toronto.

Now the group will be honoured with induction in the Mariposa Hall of Fame this July at the Mariposa Folk Festival. Bram played the festival as a solo artist in 1966, 1973 and 1976. Sharon was a solo performer in 1963, 1965, 1976 and 1978. Sharon and Bram were part of Mariposa’s 50th anniversary roster in 2010 and Bram once again played as a solo performer in 2015. Both Lois and Sharon were key players in starting Folk Play, the children’s area at the festivals in the mid-seventies. All three were heavily involved in the spin-off Mariposa in the Schools program in the seventies and early eighties. Their influence on children (and parents) cannot be underestimated. It is axiomatic to say that they have touched thousands and thousands of lives in Canada with their positive messages and tuneful, eclectic brand of music.

As the duo of Sharon and Bram make their final musical tour, they will be ending it at Mariposa, where this incredible partnership started over forty years ago.

By Mike Hill