Bob Marley fans from all walks of life gather annually at the Port Theatre to celebrate the musician’s birthday in early February.
Thousands of people gather to listen to reggae music and recognize what Marley stood for. In Nanaimo, the Natural Flavas will be joined by Elaine “Lil Bit” Shepherd, Daveton Jones and Sweet Melody at the Port Theatre Saturday (Feb. 12).
“This is one of the very few shows where you have everyone from teens to seniors and of different backgrounds all up and dancing to the same groove,” said Simon Schachner, promoter with Reggae Planet Productions. “It is definitely not your typical Port Theatre experience. The energy is just amazing.”
Marley’s music has universal appeal. This year marks 30 years since his death but his music and message live on and continue to inspire everyday.
Natural Flavas, from Vancouver, mix high-energy roots reggae, rocksteady and dancehall sounds.
Shepherd began her singing career in 1994 as a child in Bahrain in a youth variety group until emigrating to Canada three years later. In 2004, she won the Richmond District Idol singing competition. She also sang in the gospel ensemble Joy, managed by Ray Carrol of The Platters, and performs with reggae groups Selassie iPower and Fredlocks Asher and the Ultra Flex Crew.
The concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets $25; $20/students; $12/children under 12.
Please call 250-754-8550 or www.porttheatre.com.
