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victoria folk fest 2026 lineup
CHANTAL KREVIAZUK
Chantal Kreviazuk made her critically acclaimed full-length debut, “Under These Rocks and Stones,”
in 1997. Since then, the Winnipeg-born and internationally celebrated 3x JUNO Award and Grammy-
winning singer-songwriter and musician, classically trained pianist, actress, movie producer,
philanthropist, humanitarian and proud wife and mother of three has recorded 10 albums, including a
live album, a holiday album and a collaboration with her husband and Our Lady Peace frontman
Raine Maida. A prolific songwriter, Kreviazuk has written global smashes for the likes of Drake,
Gwen Stefani, Pitbull, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Carrie Underwood, Avril Lavigne, Shakira,
Kelly Clarkson and Kendrick Lamar.
Equally committed to helping those in need, Kreviazuk was
awarded the Order of Canada in 2014 along with Maida, for their efforts to raise awareness and
support for human and animal rights, mental health, education and the environment. Kreviazuk has
been an ambassador to War Child for more than two decades and one of the organization’s founding
artists.
in 1997. Since then, the Winnipeg-born and internationally celebrated 3x JUNO Award and Grammy-
winning singer-songwriter and musician, classically trained pianist, actress, movie producer,
philanthropist, humanitarian and proud wife and mother of three has recorded 10 albums, including a
live album, a holiday album and a collaboration with her husband and Our Lady Peace frontman
Raine Maida. A prolific songwriter, Kreviazuk has written global smashes for the likes of Drake,
Gwen Stefani, Pitbull, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Carrie Underwood, Avril Lavigne, Shakira,
Kelly Clarkson and Kendrick Lamar.
Equally committed to helping those in need, Kreviazuk was
awarded the Order of Canada in 2014 along with Maida, for their efforts to raise awareness and
support for human and animal rights, mental health, education and the environment. Kreviazuk has
been an ambassador to War Child for more than two decades and one of the organization’s founding
artists.
THE SADIES
Few Canadian bands have left as deep and enduring a mark on roots music as The Sadies.
Formed in Toronto in the mid-1990s by brothers Dallas and Travis Good, alongside Sean Dean
and Mike Belitsky, the band quickly built a reputation for their singular blend of country, surf
rock, garage, psychedelic twang, and pure rock-and-roll energy. Fiercely independent and
relentlessly creative, The Sadies carved out a sound that feels at once classic and completely
their own.
Across more than two decades, The Sadies have released a rich catalog of acclaimed recordings
that showcase their versatility and fearless musicianship. Their albums move seamlessly from
cinematic instrumentals to harmony-laden country ballads and fuzz-driven rave-ups. Critics have
long praised their instrumental prowess, tight arrangements, and the Good brothers’
unmistakable guitar interplay — a dynamic that became one of the band’s defining trademarks.
Renowned collaborators throughout their career include icons such as Neko Case, Kurt Vile, Neil
Young, and Gord Downie, reflecting the band’s wide-ranging influence and deep respect within
the music community. Their ability to adapt and elevate every project they touch speaks to both
their craftsmanship and their boundless curiosity.
On stage, The Sadies are electric. Known for high-energy performances that balance virtuosity
with raw emotional punch, they transform any setting — from intimate theatres to sprawling
festival fields — into a celebration of roots music in all its forms. Their shows are immersive,
unpredictable, and alive with momentum.
Formed in Toronto in the mid-1990s by brothers Dallas and Travis Good, alongside Sean Dean
and Mike Belitsky, the band quickly built a reputation for their singular blend of country, surf
rock, garage, psychedelic twang, and pure rock-and-roll energy. Fiercely independent and
relentlessly creative, The Sadies carved out a sound that feels at once classic and completely
their own.
Across more than two decades, The Sadies have released a rich catalog of acclaimed recordings
that showcase their versatility and fearless musicianship. Their albums move seamlessly from
cinematic instrumentals to harmony-laden country ballads and fuzz-driven rave-ups. Critics have
long praised their instrumental prowess, tight arrangements, and the Good brothers’
unmistakable guitar interplay — a dynamic that became one of the band’s defining trademarks.
Renowned collaborators throughout their career include icons such as Neko Case, Kurt Vile, Neil
Young, and Gord Downie, reflecting the band’s wide-ranging influence and deep respect within
the music community. Their ability to adapt and elevate every project they touch speaks to both
their craftsmanship and their boundless curiosity.
On stage, The Sadies are electric. Known for high-energy performances that balance virtuosity
with raw emotional punch, they transform any setting — from intimate theatres to sprawling
festival fields — into a celebration of roots music in all its forms. Their shows are immersive,
unpredictable, and alive with momentum.
THE DEEP DARK WOODS
One might be tempted to think of the Deep Dark Woods as a band steeped in capital-T tradition,
and that may be true, but now nearly two decades into their life as one of Canada’s finest folk-
roots ensembles, that tradition is one of their own invention. The voice of founding member
Ryan Boldt sits at the forefront of the band, and it doesn’t take long to reveal that he is a master
of subtlety and shading, working in the lineage of iconic singers like Bob Dylan, Bert Jansch,
Rick Danko, and Jason Molina.
Boldt, a relentless lifelong listener of music, says “It’s all I do. When I’m not playing music, I’m
listening to it, trying to find songs that make me feel an aching pain in my chest.” Accordingly,
his singing is full of highly emotive nuance and an elegant, relaxed precision that makes it seem
downright effortless, a perfect vehicle for the band’s particular brand of updated folk music.
Fellow travellers like keyboard whiz Geoff Hilhorst, veteran drummer Mike Silverman, and
Evan Cheadle round out the Deep Dark Woods unit, and they are often assisted by like-minded
collaborators such as singer-songwriter Ellen Froese, Erik Nielsen, Leon Power, and the
acclaimed duo Kacy & Clayton. This crew creates a powerful combination and has amassed a
pile of celebrated albums, EPs, and a host of nominations from music awards outfits from across
the country. Together they recall classic units like The Band, mid-period Wilco, and American
Beauty-era Grateful Dead, but also legendary late ’60s UK groups like Fairport Convention,
Pentangle, and Steeleye Span.
and that may be true, but now nearly two decades into their life as one of Canada’s finest folk-
roots ensembles, that tradition is one of their own invention. The voice of founding member
Ryan Boldt sits at the forefront of the band, and it doesn’t take long to reveal that he is a master
of subtlety and shading, working in the lineage of iconic singers like Bob Dylan, Bert Jansch,
Rick Danko, and Jason Molina.
Boldt, a relentless lifelong listener of music, says “It’s all I do. When I’m not playing music, I’m
listening to it, trying to find songs that make me feel an aching pain in my chest.” Accordingly,
his singing is full of highly emotive nuance and an elegant, relaxed precision that makes it seem
downright effortless, a perfect vehicle for the band’s particular brand of updated folk music.
Fellow travellers like keyboard whiz Geoff Hilhorst, veteran drummer Mike Silverman, and
Evan Cheadle round out the Deep Dark Woods unit, and they are often assisted by like-minded
collaborators such as singer-songwriter Ellen Froese, Erik Nielsen, Leon Power, and the
acclaimed duo Kacy & Clayton. This crew creates a powerful combination and has amassed a
pile of celebrated albums, EPs, and a host of nominations from music awards outfits from across
the country. Together they recall classic units like The Band, mid-period Wilco, and American
Beauty-era Grateful Dead, but also legendary late ’60s UK groups like Fairport Convention,
Pentangle, and Steeleye Span.
BARNEY BENTALL
Few Canadian songwriters have captured the heart of roots-rock storytelling quite like Barney
Bentall. Rising to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s as frontman of Barney Bentall &
The Legendary Hearts, he became a defining voice in Canadian music with a string of gold and
platinum records and enduring radio hits. Songs like “Something to Live For,” “Life Could Be
Worse,” and “Do Ya” helped cement his place as one of the country’s most recognizable and
respected artists.
Blending rock energy with heartfelt folk influences, Bentall’s music carries both grit and grace.
His songwriting is marked by emotional honesty, melodic strength, and a keen sense of place —
often reflecting themes of family, resilience, and the Canadian landscape. Over the decades, he
has continued to evolve, releasing solo work and collaborating with a wide range of artists while
maintaining the unmistakable warmth of his voice and storytelling.
Beyond his years with The Legendary Hearts, Bentall has explored acoustic and roots-driven
projects, including collaborative ensembles that highlight his versatility as both a performer and
bandleader. Whether fronting a full electric lineup or delivering an intimate acoustic set, he
brings depth, charisma, and seasoned musicianship to the stage.
A festival favorite, Bentall thrives in outdoor settings where his songs take on communal life.
His performances strike the perfect balance between high-energy crowd moments and reflective,
emotionally resonant ballads — making him a powerful presence in a prime time slot.
With decades of songwriting excellence and a catalog that continues to resonate across
generations, Barney Bentall remains one of Canada’s most enduring and beloved musical voices.
Bentall. Rising to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s as frontman of Barney Bentall &
The Legendary Hearts, he became a defining voice in Canadian music with a string of gold and
platinum records and enduring radio hits. Songs like “Something to Live For,” “Life Could Be
Worse,” and “Do Ya” helped cement his place as one of the country’s most recognizable and
respected artists.
Blending rock energy with heartfelt folk influences, Bentall’s music carries both grit and grace.
His songwriting is marked by emotional honesty, melodic strength, and a keen sense of place —
often reflecting themes of family, resilience, and the Canadian landscape. Over the decades, he
has continued to evolve, releasing solo work and collaborating with a wide range of artists while
maintaining the unmistakable warmth of his voice and storytelling.
Beyond his years with The Legendary Hearts, Bentall has explored acoustic and roots-driven
projects, including collaborative ensembles that highlight his versatility as both a performer and
bandleader. Whether fronting a full electric lineup or delivering an intimate acoustic set, he
brings depth, charisma, and seasoned musicianship to the stage.
A festival favorite, Bentall thrives in outdoor settings where his songs take on communal life.
His performances strike the perfect balance between high-energy crowd moments and reflective,
emotionally resonant ballads — making him a powerful presence in a prime time slot.
With decades of songwriting excellence and a catalog that continues to resonate across
generations, Barney Bentall remains one of Canada’s most enduring and beloved musical voices.
SHARI ULRICH
A cornerstone of Canada’s folk and roots community for over five decades, Shari Ulrich is a
singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and storyteller whose career spans generations.
Renowned for her crystalline voice, warm stage presence, and masterful musicianship, Ulrich
has long been one of the most beloved figures in Canadian folk music.
Born in California and based in British Columbia for much of her career, Ulrich first gained
national recognition as a member of the seminal folk trio Pied Pumkin in the 1970s, helping to
define the West Coast folk sound. She later became a member of the award-winning folk
supergroup UHF (Ulrich, Hill & Ford), further solidifying her reputation as a collaborator of rare
musical chemistry and depth.
Ulrich’s solo career has been equally celebrated. With multiple solo recordings to her name, she
has received JUNO Award nominations and widespread critical acclaim for songwriting that
balances wit, poignancy, and emotional clarity. Whether delivering a heartfelt ballad or a playful,
self-aware tune, her lyrics resonate with authenticity and lived experience.
A gifted instrumentalist, Ulrich is known for seamlessly moving between violin, guitar,
mandolin, and piano in live performance. Her concerts are intimate yet powerful — filled with
stories, laughter, and moments of profound connection. Audiences often describe her shows as
deeply personal, as though they’ve been invited into a shared living room rather than simply
attending a performance.
As an educator and mentor, Ulrich has also played a vital role in nurturing the next generation of
Canadian songwriters, contributing to songwriting programs and arts education initiatives across
the country.
With her timeless voice and generous spirit, Shari Ulrich remains one of Canada’s most treasured
folk artists — a performer whose music continues to inspire, comfort, and uplift audiences
wherever she plays.
singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and storyteller whose career spans generations.
Renowned for her crystalline voice, warm stage presence, and masterful musicianship, Ulrich
has long been one of the most beloved figures in Canadian folk music.
Born in California and based in British Columbia for much of her career, Ulrich first gained
national recognition as a member of the seminal folk trio Pied Pumkin in the 1970s, helping to
define the West Coast folk sound. She later became a member of the award-winning folk
supergroup UHF (Ulrich, Hill & Ford), further solidifying her reputation as a collaborator of rare
musical chemistry and depth.
Ulrich’s solo career has been equally celebrated. With multiple solo recordings to her name, she
has received JUNO Award nominations and widespread critical acclaim for songwriting that
balances wit, poignancy, and emotional clarity. Whether delivering a heartfelt ballad or a playful,
self-aware tune, her lyrics resonate with authenticity and lived experience.
A gifted instrumentalist, Ulrich is known for seamlessly moving between violin, guitar,
mandolin, and piano in live performance. Her concerts are intimate yet powerful — filled with
stories, laughter, and moments of profound connection. Audiences often describe her shows as
deeply personal, as though they’ve been invited into a shared living room rather than simply
attending a performance.
As an educator and mentor, Ulrich has also played a vital role in nurturing the next generation of
Canadian songwriters, contributing to songwriting programs and arts education initiatives across
the country.
With her timeless voice and generous spirit, Shari Ulrich remains one of Canada’s most treasured
folk artists — a performer whose music continues to inspire, comfort, and uplift audiences
wherever she plays.
THE UNFAITHFUL SERVANTS
The Unfaithful Servants have emerged as one of Canada’s must-see acoustic acts,
delivering a thrilling modern take on folk, bluegrass, and Americana. Known for
explosive instrumentals, rich harmonies, and timeless songwriting, the band has
earned a reputation as a powerhouse live draw across Western Canada.
At the heart of the group is mandolinist Jesse Cobb, a founding member of The
Infamous Stringdusters and a widely respected innovator on the mandolin. Cobb
has shared stages with Béla Fleck, David Grisman, Dierks Bentley, Lee Ann
Womack, and held a residency at the Grand Ole Opry. Alongside him is prolific
songwriter and guitarist Dylan Stone, whose emotionally driven writing and
commanding stage presence anchor the band’s sound. The lineup is rounded out by
young fiddle standout Quin Etheridge-Pedden, and anchored by bassist Mark
Johnson.
The band’s sophomore album, Fallen Angel, represents a major artistic leap.
Produced by Adrian Dolan (The Wailin’ Jennys, The Bills), the record distills the
essence of The Unfaithful Servants’ sound—raw emotion, intricate arrangements,
and fearless musicianship. Americana UK praised the title track, noting that
“‘Fallen Angel’ is a great song and the rest of the album reflects that same
quality.” The album debuted at #8 on the International Folk Music Charts
and #27 on Canadian Folk Radio, drawing widespread critical acclaim. Country
Music News called it “a towering success… solidifying The Unfaithful Servants as
an essential voice in modern Newgrass,” while Twangville highlighted the album’s
“stellar storytelling.” Following their self-titled debut—nominated for New
Group of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards—the band spent years
touring, refining their sound, and expanding their musical scope. That evolution is
fully realized on Fallen Angel, a record that captures both the intensity of their live
performances and the emotional depth of their songwriting.
With acclaimed appearances at Vancouver Island MusicFest, Salmon Arm Roots &
Blues, Islands Folk Fest, and beyond, The Unfaithful Servants have established
themselves as a formidable live act. Kelly Nakatsuka (CBC / Islands Folk Festival)
praises the band as “one of the most exciting bands from Vancouver Island in some
time… gorgeous harmonies, fine songwriting, beautiful instrumental interplay, and
some seriously rippin’ solos,” a reputation reinforced by their world-class
musicianship, critically acclaimed new album, and a live show hailed for its
“explosive instrumental prowess” (Cowichan Bluegrass Festival).
delivering a thrilling modern take on folk, bluegrass, and Americana. Known for
explosive instrumentals, rich harmonies, and timeless songwriting, the band has
earned a reputation as a powerhouse live draw across Western Canada.
At the heart of the group is mandolinist Jesse Cobb, a founding member of The
Infamous Stringdusters and a widely respected innovator on the mandolin. Cobb
has shared stages with Béla Fleck, David Grisman, Dierks Bentley, Lee Ann
Womack, and held a residency at the Grand Ole Opry. Alongside him is prolific
songwriter and guitarist Dylan Stone, whose emotionally driven writing and
commanding stage presence anchor the band’s sound. The lineup is rounded out by
young fiddle standout Quin Etheridge-Pedden, and anchored by bassist Mark
Johnson.
The band’s sophomore album, Fallen Angel, represents a major artistic leap.
Produced by Adrian Dolan (The Wailin’ Jennys, The Bills), the record distills the
essence of The Unfaithful Servants’ sound—raw emotion, intricate arrangements,
and fearless musicianship. Americana UK praised the title track, noting that
“‘Fallen Angel’ is a great song and the rest of the album reflects that same
quality.” The album debuted at #8 on the International Folk Music Charts
and #27 on Canadian Folk Radio, drawing widespread critical acclaim. Country
Music News called it “a towering success… solidifying The Unfaithful Servants as
an essential voice in modern Newgrass,” while Twangville highlighted the album’s
“stellar storytelling.” Following their self-titled debut—nominated for New
Group of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards—the band spent years
touring, refining their sound, and expanding their musical scope. That evolution is
fully realized on Fallen Angel, a record that captures both the intensity of their live
performances and the emotional depth of their songwriting.
With acclaimed appearances at Vancouver Island MusicFest, Salmon Arm Roots &
Blues, Islands Folk Fest, and beyond, The Unfaithful Servants have established
themselves as a formidable live act. Kelly Nakatsuka (CBC / Islands Folk Festival)
praises the band as “one of the most exciting bands from Vancouver Island in some
time… gorgeous harmonies, fine songwriting, beautiful instrumental interplay, and
some seriously rippin’ solos,” a reputation reinforced by their world-class
musicianship, critically acclaimed new album, and a live show hailed for its
“explosive instrumental prowess” (Cowichan Bluegrass Festival).
DANIEL WESTLEY
West Coast singer-songwriter Daniel Wesley has spent the better part of two decades carving out
a distinctive place in Canada’s roots and indie-folk landscape. Emerging from British Columbia’s
coastal music scene, Wesley built his career the old-fashioned way — relentless touring,
grassroots support, and an unwavering dedication to craft. The result is a loyal following and a
catalog of songs that balance sun-soaked melodies with thoughtful, introspective lyricism.
Blending elements of folk, reggae, indie rock, and acoustic storytelling, Wesley’s sound is both
relaxed and rhythmically alive. His music often reflects the coastal environments that shaped him
— expansive, reflective, and quietly powerful. From laid-back grooves to anthemic sing-along
moments, his songs carry a warmth that connects instantly with audiences.
Over multiple independent releases, Wesley has demonstrated a knack for melody and mood,
earning national radio play and consistent support from fans across Canada. His albums reveal an
artist comfortable evolving while remaining grounded in honest songwriting. Themes of love,
resilience, self-reflection, and the rhythms of West Coast life run throughout his work.
On stage, Daniel Wesley delivers an engaging and easygoing performance style. Whether
performing solo with an acoustic guitar or backed by a full band, he creates a communal
atmosphere — inviting audiences to lean in, sing along, and settle into the groove. His festival
sets strike a balance between upbeat energy and reflective depth, making him a natural fit for
outdoor stages and summer crowds.
With his coastal sensibility and authentic voice, Daniel Wesley continues to be a compelling
presence in Canada’s independent music scene — an artist whose songs feel both personal and
universally relatable.
a distinctive place in Canada’s roots and indie-folk landscape. Emerging from British Columbia’s
coastal music scene, Wesley built his career the old-fashioned way — relentless touring,
grassroots support, and an unwavering dedication to craft. The result is a loyal following and a
catalog of songs that balance sun-soaked melodies with thoughtful, introspective lyricism.
Blending elements of folk, reggae, indie rock, and acoustic storytelling, Wesley’s sound is both
relaxed and rhythmically alive. His music often reflects the coastal environments that shaped him
— expansive, reflective, and quietly powerful. From laid-back grooves to anthemic sing-along
moments, his songs carry a warmth that connects instantly with audiences.
Over multiple independent releases, Wesley has demonstrated a knack for melody and mood,
earning national radio play and consistent support from fans across Canada. His albums reveal an
artist comfortable evolving while remaining grounded in honest songwriting. Themes of love,
resilience, self-reflection, and the rhythms of West Coast life run throughout his work.
On stage, Daniel Wesley delivers an engaging and easygoing performance style. Whether
performing solo with an acoustic guitar or backed by a full band, he creates a communal
atmosphere — inviting audiences to lean in, sing along, and settle into the groove. His festival
sets strike a balance between upbeat energy and reflective depth, making him a natural fit for
outdoor stages and summer crowds.
With his coastal sensibility and authentic voice, Daniel Wesley continues to be a compelling
presence in Canada’s independent music scene — an artist whose songs feel both personal and
universally relatable.
VALDY
A true icon of Canadian folk music, Valdy has helped shape the country’s musical landscape
with his unmistakable voice, heartfelt songwriting, and warm stage presence. Emerging in the
late 1960s as part of the vibrant West Coast folk movement, Valdy quickly became one of
Canada’s most beloved singer-songwriters, earning national recognition for songs that capture
both personal reflection and the spirit of the times.
His breakthrough hit, “Play Me a Rock and Roll Song,” became an anthem of its era, earning
him a Juno Award and solidifying his place in Canadian music history. Over the years, Valdy has
released numerous albums, garnered multiple Juno nominations, and built a catalog filled with
songs that balance humor, poignancy, and social awareness. His music reflects the landscapes
and communities of Canada — from small-town stories to larger reflections on humanity and
resilience.
Valdy’s songwriting is marked by its sincerity and storytelling depth. Whether delivering a
playful tune or a deeply moving ballad, he brings authenticity and emotional clarity to every
performance. His work has stood the test of time not because of trends, but because of its
enduring humanity.
On stage, Valdy is as much storyteller as musician. His concerts blend memorable songs with
engaging anecdotes, creating an intimate atmosphere even in large festival settings. Audiences
often leave feeling as though they’ve shared in something personal and genuine.
A respected elder statesman of Canadian folk, Valdy continues to tour and record, inspiring new
generations of listeners and songwriters alike. His legacy is woven into the fabric of Canada’s
musical identity — and his live performances remain a reminder of why his songs continue to
resonate across decades.
with his unmistakable voice, heartfelt songwriting, and warm stage presence. Emerging in the
late 1960s as part of the vibrant West Coast folk movement, Valdy quickly became one of
Canada’s most beloved singer-songwriters, earning national recognition for songs that capture
both personal reflection and the spirit of the times.
His breakthrough hit, “Play Me a Rock and Roll Song,” became an anthem of its era, earning
him a Juno Award and solidifying his place in Canadian music history. Over the years, Valdy has
released numerous albums, garnered multiple Juno nominations, and built a catalog filled with
songs that balance humor, poignancy, and social awareness. His music reflects the landscapes
and communities of Canada — from small-town stories to larger reflections on humanity and
resilience.
Valdy’s songwriting is marked by its sincerity and storytelling depth. Whether delivering a
playful tune or a deeply moving ballad, he brings authenticity and emotional clarity to every
performance. His work has stood the test of time not because of trends, but because of its
enduring humanity.
On stage, Valdy is as much storyteller as musician. His concerts blend memorable songs with
engaging anecdotes, creating an intimate atmosphere even in large festival settings. Audiences
often leave feeling as though they’ve shared in something personal and genuine.
A respected elder statesman of Canadian folk, Valdy continues to tour and record, inspiring new
generations of listeners and songwriters alike. His legacy is woven into the fabric of Canada’s
musical identity — and his live performances remain a reminder of why his songs continue to
resonate across decades.
STEPHANIE CADMAN
Stephanie Cadman is that rare, extraordinary thing: a quadruple threat.
A world-renowned dancer, an accomplished actress of stage and screen, a celebrated violinist, and a great singer, Stephanie’s talents know no bounds. Maintaining a busy touring schedule as a Canadian Folk Award-nominated solo musician. Stephanie has rocked audiences across North America and beyond. Between her starring role in the Mirvish Broadway production of Once, her celebrated career as an in-demand fiddler, choreographer, and her breathtaking and award-winning dancing, Stephanie Cadman has proven herself to be one of Canada’s most versatile performers.
Stephanie began her professional stage and music career at a young age as a lead in the hit musical Swingstep. She went on to fiddle and dance in Toronto Mirvish Productions’ Celtic review Needfire, and the Broadway National Tour of 42nd Street. Widely recognized as one of Canada’s top violinists, Stephanie’s stirring fiddle has also been featured in Bowfire, the dynamic all-violin stage show. Along the way, she has appeared as a fiddler and tap dancer with symphonies across North America including the Kennedy Center’s National Symphony Orchestra. In 2014 she was cast in the Mirvish production of Once, among the most beloved Broadway stage shows of recent years.
Stephanie maintains a lively and successful career in popular music. She has released two solo albums, Celtic Blaze and the Canadian Folk Award nominee Foggy New Year, both of which feature her impeccable fiddle and lonesome voice.
Catching the attention of luminaries across the music industry, Stephanie has shared the stage with everyone from Barney Bentall and the Cariboo Express, Daniel Lapp, The Chieftains, Belle Starr and Carlos Nunez. Along the way she has graced a laundry list of stages, from the grimmest dive bar in Brooklyn to the Royal Albert Hall itself.
Hailed by the The Guardian as an “incredibly talented” and “world-class” artist.
A world-renowned dancer, an accomplished actress of stage and screen, a celebrated violinist, and a great singer, Stephanie’s talents know no bounds. Maintaining a busy touring schedule as a Canadian Folk Award-nominated solo musician. Stephanie has rocked audiences across North America and beyond. Between her starring role in the Mirvish Broadway production of Once, her celebrated career as an in-demand fiddler, choreographer, and her breathtaking and award-winning dancing, Stephanie Cadman has proven herself to be one of Canada’s most versatile performers.
Stephanie began her professional stage and music career at a young age as a lead in the hit musical Swingstep. She went on to fiddle and dance in Toronto Mirvish Productions’ Celtic review Needfire, and the Broadway National Tour of 42nd Street. Widely recognized as one of Canada’s top violinists, Stephanie’s stirring fiddle has also been featured in Bowfire, the dynamic all-violin stage show. Along the way, she has appeared as a fiddler and tap dancer with symphonies across North America including the Kennedy Center’s National Symphony Orchestra. In 2014 she was cast in the Mirvish production of Once, among the most beloved Broadway stage shows of recent years.
Stephanie maintains a lively and successful career in popular music. She has released two solo albums, Celtic Blaze and the Canadian Folk Award nominee Foggy New Year, both of which feature her impeccable fiddle and lonesome voice.
Catching the attention of luminaries across the music industry, Stephanie has shared the stage with everyone from Barney Bentall and the Cariboo Express, Daniel Lapp, The Chieftains, Belle Starr and Carlos Nunez. Along the way she has graced a laundry list of stages, from the grimmest dive bar in Brooklyn to the Royal Albert Hall itself.
Hailed by the The Guardian as an “incredibly talented” and “world-class” artist.
BILL JOHNSON
A pillar of Victoria’s blues community, Bill Johnson is a powerhouse guitarist, vocalist, and
bandleader whose name has become synonymous with authentic, hard-driving blues on
Vancouver Island. With decades of live performance under his belt, Johnson has built a
reputation for electrifying stage presence, deep musical roots, and a tone that cuts straight to the
soul.
Blending classic Chicago blues, Texas grit, and West Coast swagger, Johnson’s sound is both
traditional and unmistakably his own. His guitar work ranges from fiery, overdriven solos to
tasteful, restrained phrasing that lets the groove breathe. As a vocalist, he delivers with
conviction — channeling the emotional weight and storytelling that define the blues tradition.
Johnson has performed extensively across British Columbia and beyond, appearing at festivals,
theatres, and clubs where audiences know they’re in for a high-energy, no-nonsense blues
experience. A respected figure among fellow musicians, he is known not only for his
musicianship but for fostering community within the regional blues scene.
Whether fronting a full electric band or stripping it down for a more intimate set, Bill Johnson
brings authenticity and seasoned professionalism to every performance. His live shows balance
tight arrangements with spontaneous moments — the kind that remind audiences why blues
music remains so vital and alive.
At a festival setting, Johnson’s set delivers lift, groove, and that unmistakable late-afternoon
electricity that draws a crowd in close. His music connects across generations — from longtime
blues devotees to newcomers discovering the power of a well-played riff.
With roots firmly planted in tradition and eyes always on the stage ahead, Bill Johnson remains
one of Victoria’s most respected and enduring blues artists.
bandleader whose name has become synonymous with authentic, hard-driving blues on
Vancouver Island. With decades of live performance under his belt, Johnson has built a
reputation for electrifying stage presence, deep musical roots, and a tone that cuts straight to the
soul.
Blending classic Chicago blues, Texas grit, and West Coast swagger, Johnson’s sound is both
traditional and unmistakably his own. His guitar work ranges from fiery, overdriven solos to
tasteful, restrained phrasing that lets the groove breathe. As a vocalist, he delivers with
conviction — channeling the emotional weight and storytelling that define the blues tradition.
Johnson has performed extensively across British Columbia and beyond, appearing at festivals,
theatres, and clubs where audiences know they’re in for a high-energy, no-nonsense blues
experience. A respected figure among fellow musicians, he is known not only for his
musicianship but for fostering community within the regional blues scene.
Whether fronting a full electric band or stripping it down for a more intimate set, Bill Johnson
brings authenticity and seasoned professionalism to every performance. His live shows balance
tight arrangements with spontaneous moments — the kind that remind audiences why blues
music remains so vital and alive.
At a festival setting, Johnson’s set delivers lift, groove, and that unmistakable late-afternoon
electricity that draws a crowd in close. His music connects across generations — from longtime
blues devotees to newcomers discovering the power of a well-played riff.
With roots firmly planted in tradition and eyes always on the stage ahead, Bill Johnson remains
one of Victoria’s most respected and enduring blues artists.
ELISE LEBLANC
A poet at heart, Canadian singer-songwriter Élise LeBlanc (She/They) is inspired by the romance of wild things. Heavily influenced by classic country, Appalachia, and western swing- her songs explore queer desire, betrayal, hope, and nature lore. Her gentle twang and rich, expressive vibratto nods to classic crooners Patsy Cline and Peggy Lee.
Her 2024 record "The Fiddle & The Fire" - produced by Leeroy Stagger (Canadian Folk Music Award-Winner whose roster includes: Corb Lund, Joel Plaskett, Mariel Buckley), was listed in the top 10 "Best Country Records on Bandcamp" review in 11/2023, and featured in a CBC Radio-Canada interview on "Culture et Confiture".
Élise has toured extensively across North America from Vancouver Island to Nashville, and has been a mainstage performer at prominent BC festivals including Cowichan Bluegrass Festival, Filberg Festival, and Tofino Jazz Festival. In summer 2025, Élise successfully completed their first UK tour, including Maverick Festival - funded by Music BC, Creative BC and the Province of British Columbia.
Elise's recent showcases at Folk Alliance International 2025 in Montreal was supported by Music BC, Creative BC and the Province of British Columbia.
Élise is currently based on the unceded traditional territory of the Lukwungen People, the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations (Victoria, BC, CANADA.)
Her 2024 record "The Fiddle & The Fire" - produced by Leeroy Stagger (Canadian Folk Music Award-Winner whose roster includes: Corb Lund, Joel Plaskett, Mariel Buckley), was listed in the top 10 "Best Country Records on Bandcamp" review in 11/2023, and featured in a CBC Radio-Canada interview on "Culture et Confiture".
Élise has toured extensively across North America from Vancouver Island to Nashville, and has been a mainstage performer at prominent BC festivals including Cowichan Bluegrass Festival, Filberg Festival, and Tofino Jazz Festival. In summer 2025, Élise successfully completed their first UK tour, including Maverick Festival - funded by Music BC, Creative BC and the Province of British Columbia.
Elise's recent showcases at Folk Alliance International 2025 in Montreal was supported by Music BC, Creative BC and the Province of British Columbia.
Élise is currently based on the unceded traditional territory of the Lukwungen People, the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations (Victoria, BC, CANADA.)
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