Allison Lupton

Review by : Brian Adolph

Photo Credit: Derrek Owen

From the opening chords of What Will I Dream, an ode to the beauty of Canada, Allison Lupton captivated the audience with her pure voice and the crystalline imagery of her lyrics.With a genuine and engaging stage presence, Lupton and her powerhouse band presented selections from her latest album Words of Love, traditional fiddle music, and some remarkable step dancing.The ensemble featured three top-notch Canadian artists: Winnipeg bassist Daniel Koulack, known for his work with The Knappen Street AllStar Band; Shane Cook, a three-time Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Champion on violin; and Canadian Folk Music Award-winning instrumentalist and four-time Canadian Open Group Step Dancing Champion Kyle Waymouth on guitar. With the addition of Lupton’s accomplished flute playing, the quartet created complex, intricate music that also felt light and effortless.Lupton’s stories and lyrics, steeped in Canadiana, were a delight, and the show was a wonderful close to EMCA’s 51st season.Through audience donations and a 50/50 draw with the winnings donated back, EMCA audience members raised $1,380 to support Ryland and Emmett Nowell. The donation was graciously accepted by the fund organizers at Lake Life Power Sports in the boys’ names.