For the past 12 years, Shara Gustafson and her husband Seth Macdonald, have been hosting thousands of festival dwellers on their property in Dunster, B.C., for what has arguably become one of the best music festivals in the region.
The secret to its success has been its ability to attract a diverse set of musical acts and create a family friendly environment–and this year promises to be no different.
“It’s about the music and it’s about the community. It’s not about the pit party,” said Gustafson, the artistic director for the festival.
“Our kids grew up here so we’re very conscious of children and as touring musicians going to festivals we also appreciate when people are conscious of families being at festivals,” said Gustafson, who along with her husband make up the band Samson’s Delilah.
Always looking to improve the three-day festival, this year organizers have added more seating in front of the stage and intend to hold several acoustic shows in the Earthship, a self-sustaining, eco-friendly building constructed out of recycled and natural materials overlooking Robson Valley.
One of the most promising acts this year is Columbia’s De Bruces A Mi. For the past 16 years the reggae band has been sharing its music with audiences from Argentina to Canada.
The band’s music is inspired by both Jamaican rhythms and the music of their homeland, a unique style they call ‘Reggae Mestizo’ or ‘Mixed Reggae’ which reflects the cultural diversity that identifies them and their region.
Another act that is sure to inspire is Frank Yamma, considered one of Australia’s most significant Indigenous songwriters and performers. Singing in his native language and in English his songs and skillful guitar playing is an act that you won’t want to miss.
“He’s an iconic figure in the music community in Australia, so I’m pretty excited about him,” said Gustafson.
“He hasn’t played many Canadian dates so we’re lucky we managed to snag him.”
Mixed into the line up are several artists who have also played in Jasper, including The Dead South, The Burying Ground and Red Haven.
In addition to the bands, there are also a slew of solo artists playing, such as Sam Klass, who creates high energy danceable soundscapes live on the spot looping his guitar, voice, and beat box samples.
In addition to music, the festival also incorporates visual artists and several workshops, including live mural painting by Milan Basic, who created a massive mural throughout the weekend during last year’s festival.
On Saturday night, after the music stops, a burlesque and comedy show will entertain adults into the wee hours of the morning.
Gustafson described hosting the festival on her own property as a love-hate relationship.
“At one point it feels like an invasion and at the next point it’s just an amazing gift to give to our community and people that come from all over to enjoy this beautiful space and the energy that’s here.”
Located in Dunster, B.C., the three-day camping festival runs from Aug. 12 to 14.
Tickets are $150 and can be purchased either online or at the gate and include camping.
There is no reserved camping and no hookups are available. Dogs are not permitted and festival goers are asked to bring their own drinking water. Anyone under the age of 19 must camp with an adult.
For more information about the festival visit www.robsonvalleymusicfestivalbc.com.
Paul Clarke [email protected]
