NEW CULTURAL EVENTS
Jazz at the Columbus Centre
- October 29, December 3
Back by popular demand, Jazz at the Columbus Centre returns with five unforgettable concerts celebrating the richness, diversity and enduring appeal of jazz. This curated series brings together outstanding Canadian musicians and vocalists to explore iconic recordings, global jazz influences, beloved composers, and seasonal favourites—all presented in an intimate and elegant concert setting.
From jazz’s greatest hits and Brazilian bossa nova to the timeless music of George Gershwin, festive holiday swing, and Italian classics reimagined, this series invites audiences to discover the music they love—performed with artistry, imagination, and style.
Whether you’re a devoted jazz fan or a curious first‑time listener, this series offers a welcoming and richly rewarding journey through the sound, history, and spirit of jazz.
- Thursday, October 29, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Pianist and composer Anthony D’Alessandro brings his signature swing, scintillating technique, and irresistible showmanship to a celebration of one of the most influential composers in jazz and American popular music: George Gershwin.
Featuring beloved selections from Gershwin’s vast catalogue — spanning jazz standards, musicals, and concert works — this performance honours a monumental figure whose music continues to define the Great American Songbook. Joining D’Alessandro are trumpet virtuoso Kevin Turcotte, bassist Paul Novotny, and drummer Daniel Barnes in a truly star‑studded ensemble.
Anthony D’Alessandro – Piano
Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet
Paul Novotny – Bass
Daniel Barnes – Drums
- Thursday, December 3, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Beloved vocalist John Alcorn, joined by the ever‑elegant Daniel Barnes Trio, brings swing, warmth and swagger to musical favourites of the holiday season.
The weather outside may be frightful, but inside it’s beginning to look — and sound — a lot like a holly jolly Christmas. From festive classics to jazzy seasonal gems, this joyful concert ushers in the holidays with style, sophistication and plenty of cheer.
John Alcorn – Vocals
Daniel Barnes – Drums
Paul Novotny – Bass
Anthony D’Alessandro – Piano
- Thursday, April 30, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Celebrate International Jazz Day with an exceptional evening of music as drummer and arranger Daniel Barnes leads an all‑star ensemble of JUNO Award–winning musicians—saxophonist Richard Underhill and bassist Paul Novotny—alongside rising star pianist Evan Miles. Together, they pay tribute to some of the most popular and influential recordings in jazz history.
Featuring music made famous by Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, John Coltrane, Stan Getz, and more, this concert honours the jazz tradition of re‑imagining beloved works. Expect familiar melodies, bold improvisation, and fresh perspectives from some of Canada’s finest jazz artists as they join the global celebration of jazz’s enduring legacy.
Daniel Barnes – Drums
Richard Underhill – Saxophone
Evan Miles – Piano
Paul Novotny – Bass
- Thursday, May 28, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Vocalist Alyssa Giammaria lends her rich, expressive voice to nostalgic Neapolitan favourites such as “Volare,” “O Sole Mio,” and music from “The Godfather” — all reimagined in stylish jazz arrangements.
With arrangements by acclaimed pianist Anthony D’Alessandro and the distinguished bass work of Paul Novotny, this concert offers a fresh and elegant take on familiar melodies, blending Neapolitan song tradition with the improvisational spirit of jazz.
Alyssa Giammaria – Vocals
Anthony D’Alessandro – Piano
Paul Novotny – Bass
Daniel Barnes – Drums
- Friday, September 11, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Acclaimed Brazilian vocalist Fernanda Cunha brings her warmth, elegance, and authenticity to an intimate evening of classic bossa nova. Known for its intimacy, sophistication and gently hypnotic rhythms, this beloved genre comes alive through timeless works by Antonio Carlos Jobim, João Gilberto, Luiz Bonfá, and others.
Backed by a stellar ensemble, Cunha’s expressive voice transports audiences to sun‑soaked evenings and the romantic heart of Brazil. A lush, elegant concert that is both relaxing and deeply expressive.
Fernanda Cunha – Vocals
Reg Schwager – Guitar
Tom Szczesniak – Piano
Paul Novotny – Bass
Daniel Barnes – Drums
Price:
$30.00 (Adults) / $25.00 (Seniors/Students) (per concert)
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Series sponsored by Aion Law Partners.
Between Democracy and Republic:
The American and French Revolutions
- Wednesday, November 4, 6:00 – 7:30pm
The American and French Revolutions mark watershed moments in the development of modern Western democracy and republican government. In both contexts, the rejection of monarchical rule sparked intense debates about the appropriate form of government for the newly liberated states—democracy or republic? These discussions drew heavily on ancient Greek and Roman political models and intellectual traditions.
University of Toronto lecturer and researcher Giulio Leghissa will lead the audience through a comparative journey across America and Europe to reveal the ancient foundations of modern democratic and republican thought.
Price:
FREE
Location:
Columbus Room,
Columbus Centre
Folk Music of Puglia
Festa Popolare
- Tuesday, November 10, 7:00 – 9:00pm
Festa Popolare invites audiences on a journey through the diverse landscapes and living traditions of Southern Italy.
From the hypnotic pizziche of Salento and the rugged tarantelle of Gargano to the sophisticated violin and mandolin traditions of Puglia’s cities, this special evening reveals a side of Italian folk music rarely heard outside its homeland. Featuring authentic, hand-crafted instruments, traditional dance styles, and music shaped by years of study with the keepers of these traditions, the evening offers an unforgettable encounter with the sounds, rhythms, and spirit of Puglia.
Whether you have roots in Southern Italy or are simply curious to discover something new, let Festa Popolare take you on a captivating cultural exploration of one of Italy’s most diverse and fascinating cultural traditions.
Price:
$30.00 (Adults) / $25.00 (Seniors/Students)
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Chestnut Festival
Festa della Castagna
- Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 – 8:30pm
Join us for our annual community festa to enjoy complimentary roasted chestnuts* in celebration of San Martino. This FREE event coincides with our Ballo Liscio night, with social dancing and music.
Price:
FREE
*First-come, first served, while supplies last.
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
“Neapolitan Ice Cream”
The Musical
- Friday, November 13, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Following this spring’s sold-out show, “Neapolitan Ice Cream: The Musical” returns with a new four-person musical production!
“Neapolitan Ice Cream: The Musical” is an intimate four-person music and storytelling experience featuring soprano, accordion, classical guitar and organetto. World-famous Neapolitan songs and operatic arias — including “O Sole Mio,” “Santa Lucia,” “Core ‘Ngrato,” and Puccini’s “O Mio Babbino Caro” — are interwoven with dramatic English narration, where every song deepens the story and draws you further into Caterina’s world. A full-colour printed program with selected lyrics with translations, and cultural notes is included, and the performance culminates with audiences sharing a scoop of Neapolitan ice cream.
From Naples to Scotland… Inspired by the true history of Italian immigrants diverted by deceit, journey through a heartwarming musical tale of love, legacy, resilience and reinvention and the bittersweet taste of dreams gone cold.
At the turn of the 20th century, 16-year-old Caterina sets out from the port of Naples to join her fiancé in Canada, but a betrayal at sea leaves her stranded on the rugged shores of Scotland. Armed with little more than a few belongings and a pouch of her Nonna’s precious cocoa, she begins making ice cream — transforming her struggles into sweetness. But when a kind-hearted young fisherman offers her strawberries and something unexpected stirs, Caterina must decide: can she churn heartbreak into hope?
Price:
$45.00 (Adults) / $40.00 (Seniors/Students)
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Presented in partnership with Loreworks Ltd.
TLN Media Group is the Media Partner.
“Love and Poppies”and “Carta Bianca”
Book Launch with Authors Maria Zarrone and Bruna Di Giuseppe-Bertoni
- Thursday, November 19, 7:30 – 8:30pm
Join authors Maria Zarrone and Bruna Di Giuseppe-Bertoni for an engaging evening of conversation and storytelling as they discuss their latest books, each offering powerful and deeply personal perspectives on the lasting impact of the Second World War.
In “Love and Poppies”, Maria Zarrone transports readers to war-ravaged Italy, where the destruction of Monte Cassino and the chaos of conflict form the backdrop to Giuliana’s journey of survival, resilience, and healing. Through loss, fear, and the kindness of those who offer refuge, the novel explores the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable devastation.
Bruna Di Giuseppe-Bertoni’s “Carta Bianca” draws on family memories passed down through generations, recounting her mother’s experiences during wartime Italy and her family’s immigration to Canada. From their arduous Atlantic crossing to stories of first love, displacement, and survival, including a harrowing account of hiding from advancing soldiers, the book preserves a remarkable chapter of immigrant and wartime history.
Hosted by author Gianna Patriarca, this special event will explore themes of memory, courage, survival, and the stories that connect personal experiences to broader historical events.
Following the discussion, audience members will have an opportunity to engage with the authors and learn more about the inspiration behind their work.
Price:
$5.00
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery, Columbus Centre
Ballo Liscio
Social Dancing Nights
- Wednesdays, August 5 – October 28
The Italian tradition of Ballo Liscio continues every Wednesday at Villa Charities. Join us for these popular social dancing nights featuring music by popular Italian DJs and musicians.
Price:
A ‘PAY WHAT YOU CAN’ EVENT
(Donations welcome at the door.)
Limited seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
For more information, please contact:
Mirella Tersigni
Cultural Manager, Cultural Programming
Email: mtersigni@villacharities.com