The Grace Hartman Amphitheatre was abuzz with excitement on Saturday as the second annual Her Northern Voice Music Festival concluded a week-long series of events and performances celebrating the accomplishments of women artists within the local community.
Spearheaded by the Sudbury Performance Group (SPG), Her Northern Voice assembled female artists from various corners of Canada for the five-day extravaganza, spanning from August 9th to the 13th. The festival’s organizers demonstrated their commitment to inclusivity by ensuring representation from artists within the English, Francophone, Black, Indigenous, Queer, and South American communities.
Juanita Skruibis, a member of the organizing committee and the event’s emcee at Bell Park on Saturday, succinctly encapsulated the motive behind creating the festival: “Why not?” She elaborated, “Women accomplish incredible feats — they are artists, caregivers, professionals, and community contributors. Our goal was to spotlight their resilience and talents.”
Chanda Grylls-Mahaffy, another dedicated volunteer organizer, stressed the importance of demonstrating to young people, particularly young women, the value inherent in pursuing artistic endeavors as a viable career path. She emphasized that, while the festival might be titled “Her Northern Voice” and focused on women artists, its core message resonates with diversity.
“Though the event celebrates female lead vocalists, it essentially showcases a collective effort of both women and men working harmoniously within the arts and music industry. Instead of being an exclusive platform for women, it stands as an inclusive platform,” Grylls-Mahaffy remarked.
Among those young individuals influenced by this ethos is Grylls-Mahaffy’s 18-year-old daughter, Kalem Mahaffy, who actively participates as a performer and volunteer for SPG. Keen on making a meaningful contribution to her community, Kalem expressed the motivation behind her involvement: “Most event organizers are adults… I wanted to be a part of the decision-making process too. These artists set an example, which instills in young women the belief that performing can be a viable career.”
Tara Hawkes, a fellow member of the organizing committee, shared her perspective, highlighting the festival’s true essence — amplifying and spotlighting female artists within the local landscape. Hawkes noted the disparities that often exist in the recognition afforded to male-driven bands as compared to their female counterparts.
Mark Mannisto, President of SPG, recollected how the idea for a women-driven festival materialized during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prompted by a remark from Dee Bela, vocalist of Naked Soul, Mannisto acknowledged the dearth of women artists featured in SPG’s livestreamed performances during the pandemic.
“We realized there was an underrepresentation of women artists,” Mannisto reflected. “That observation stayed with me.”
With a purpose to counterbalance the disproportionate attention given to male artists, the concept of a festival dedicated to elevating women’s voices was conceived.
“Our intention is simply to showcase the community the talent that women artists bring,” Mannisto affirmed.
The musical gala commenced with Monochrome’s concert at the Hilton Garden Inn, followed by performances by Ashley Woodruff at the Trevi Bar & Grill, and Patricia Watson at the Hilton Garden Inn on August 10th. Decades took the stage on Friday evening at the Hilton Garden Inn, and on Saturday, the community was welcomed once again to the Grace Hartman Amphitheatre.
At Bell Park, the audience was treated to performances throughout the day until 7 p.m., featuring artists such as Chanelle Albert & the Easy Company, Viv and Leo, and Naked Soul. The setting also accommodated several food and artisan vendors. The culmination of Saturday’s festivities featured a performance by Juno winner Susan Aglukark. The following day witnessed a full afternoon of musical delights at Finn MacCool’s.
Beyond the entertainment, the festival was also a conduit for supporting local charities that offer essential services to women across Northern Ontario. This year, the festival partnered with YWCA Sudbury, signaling their commitment to the welfare of their community.
The successful execution of Her Northern Voice was made possible with support from various quarters including the Heritage Centre, the City of Greater Sudbury, Delta Bingo, and Sudbury.com.
