By Emily Stubbs, Marketing & Communications Coordinator

The Rotary Centre for the Arts is gearing up for it’s 20th Anniversary this November. To help celebrate, we threw the party of the summer right on our patio. The Summer Patio Concert Series took place every Tuesday evening from July 19th to August 9th. The concept was simple – bring a lawn chair to the RCA and enjoy fantastic free music by professional local musicians. With support from New Country 100.7, the City of Kelowna, the BC Touring Council, the BC Arts Council, Tourism Kelowna, and, of course, our community, these concerts were a huge success. Hosting the event with us were our friends over at New Country 100.7, with Scott Hackman as our talented MC.

Scott Hackman of New Country 100.7 | Photographed by Justin Hill 

We kicked things off with performances from Country-Folk sibling duo Mabaleka and the inspiring Leila Neverland. Mabaleka’s musical chemistry was unmistakable and left the crowd energized and ready for more. Leila Neverland delivered; her nature-based and nuanced music showcased the true powerhouse she is known to be.

Mabaleka & Leila Neverland | Photographed by Ryan Mowat⁠

Windmills and Post-Modern Connection are household names here in the Okanagan, so we were honoured to have them perform back-to-back on the second evening of the series. Windmills trademark sound, described as “Moody Indie Swoon Pop”, was felt throughout his set, and we were hooked. The modern indie group Post-Modern Connection rocked the stage with their upbeat instrumentals, juxtaposed with their melancholic lyrics. These two artists were fan favourites to say the least.

Windmills & Post-Modern Connection | Photographed by Ryan Mowat⁠

The third concert was an absolute blast, with performances from local children’s group The Oot n’ Oots and the four-piece instrumental band The Meliponas. Juno nominated The Oot n’ Oots make music that isn’t just for kids. No matter how old, everyone was grooving to the groups upbeat imaginative songs. They were joined by an ASL interpreter, making sure their music was accessible for everyone. The Meliponas followed up with their unique sound, with each member of the band bringing different musical and cultural backgrounds to the table. The four kept the good vibes going with their eclectic performance.

The Oot n' Oots & The Meliponas | Photographed by Justin Hill

For our final concert, we went out with a bang with Alternative Hip-Hop artist Jodi B and the Okanagan’s premier funk band Goldsauce. With looping beats and beautiful vocals, Jodi B put on an amazing performance and was a perfect way to start the series finale. Similarly, Goldsauce was the perfect way to end the evening, with their high-octane funk infused tunes putting everyone in a great mood.

Jodi B & Goldsauce | Photographed by Memorable and Vibrant Okanagan Photography (Michelle Behr)

Thank you to everyone who came to the RCA to support local musicians while enjoying a beer in the beer garden, soaking up the Okanagan sunshine, and dancing on our front lawn. We look forward to offering more events like this in the future, striving to provide accessible entertainment for all. We are so happy to have been able to provide a stage for local talent. As we reflect on the last 20 years serving as Kelowna’s Arts and Culture hub, we want to thank our supporters and community for their continued support. As Scott reminded the crowd many times at each Patio Concert, the RCA is a registered charity – we rely on our patrons and sponsors for support, and we are eternally grateful for all they do. We would not have had these successful 20 years without you!