Nautical Days has a new producer, but those planning on attending the event can expect it to be status quo.
David Stevenson is taking the “not broke; don’t fix it” approach in taking over the reins of the annual August long weekend festival in Comox.
“Really, it was run so smoothly by John (Mang) and Sue (Wood), it’s been pretty easy for me to take over,” he said.
Sue Wood was the festival producer and John Mang was site operations & entertainment from 2012-2018.
(Paul Baal remains on as the craft show co-ordinator.)
Stevenson said Mang had approached him to gauge interest in taking over the production of the festival.
“I know John as a professional musician - I play in a few bands - so John was asking if I was interested in taking over,” explained Stevenson. “I’m retired, so I’ve got time to do that.”
Even though Stevenson is now looking after multiple aspects of the festival, he said Wood and Mang’s attention to detail has made the transition seamless.
“They left me a very comprehensive 60-page manual that tells me what to do, on what day, and who with. They had it down to a system where everything is manageable, so I’m just basically following a script.
“We are basically keeping the same format as the last couple of years. The schedule for 90 per cent of the entertainment and activities is the same, so it makes it easy for the public. We have dragon boat racing, the pet parade, the fireworks, all that is at the same time. Of course, there are some different entertainers this year, but that’s typical. We are focusing on local musicians this year, to keep it a community event…”
Of the “non-local” acts performing this year, Celtic rockers The Nova Scotiables will are a band to see. The high-energy “Maritime music” group will have listeners tapping their toes, clapping their hands and up dancing from the first song, straight through the set. They are the headliners Saturday night.
And fan favourite Steve “Elvis” Elliott will return this year, for sets both Saturday and Sunday.
“He hasn’t been here the last couple of years, but we’ve got him again this year, so Elvis will be in the building,” said Stevenson.
For a full schedule of events, visit www.comoxnauticaldays.com
terry.farrell@blackpress.ca
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