When culture can be close to home

When I was young and growing up here in Kitchener-Waterloo, I never thought about cultural events locally.  Sure, we have the Stratford Festival nearby, and there was always heading into Toronto to hit up the AGO, the ROM or taking in a play at one of the many theatres, but when it came to finding something closer to home it never registered that something might be available right at my doorstep.

As I got older, I started asking "Why?".  We have the venues, we have the interest locally, why do I have to drive to Toronto to take it some culture?

It appears that the citizens of Kitchener-Waterloo agree!

On the night of September 24th, myself, and over 100 other supporters took to the train for the Steel Rail Sessions event.  The brainchild behind the Steel Rail, the lovely and inspirational Hilary Abel arranged for us all to be whisked away on a train and treated to a fest for the senses.  As we chugged through the autumn evening towards St. Jacob's the passengers were able to enjoy sponsored venues from CAFKA, the KWAG, MFX Partners, Deadbeatblast and the KW Symphony.  We were also treated to the culinary wonders of Nick & Nat's Uptown 21, a visual feast itself.

All aboard the Steel Rails Session

Our evening proceeded to a live concert from Vacuity and a gallery showcase in St. Jacob's before being escorted back on to the train and returning to Waterloo.  The Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery opened their doors late in the evening to have us as their guests for an after party where we were able to enjoy some wine and catch up with colleagues and friends to wrap up this spectacular evening.  For a first-timer to the CCGG, I was greatly impressed both by their hospitality as well as their gallery itself, and will be returning as a patron in the near future.

At the end of the night, I laid my head down and smiled.  All throughout the night I kept reminding myself "This is in Kitchener-Waterloo".  This type of event appealed to all ages, appealed to the art, music and theatre lovers.  This type of cultural event is an example of what defines us as a society - and it was found locally.

My deepest thanks for Hilary for arranging the Steel Rail Sessions.  To all the sponsors, corporate and otherwise, who believed and shared in Hilary's vision, again, you have my gratitude.  So the next time you want to check out something great - look outside your window - and I do hope that in a years time we shall see our local galleries thrive and a certain train heading towards St. Jacob's again!

For complete photos of the event, please check out the gallery here courtesy of Bright Lights Photography.  The Record also has posted a video of the event which is available to view here.