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article in the driftwood newspaper: morningside brings magical entertainment to south end

Fulford Village is getting put back on the map as the island’s hub of arts and community connection with a new entertainment program at Morningside Organic Bakery Café and Bookstore.

Maliha Sanyal, the café’s new entertainment and community coordinator, said the intimate performance events located on the covered patio have already garnered a good response since starting up just six weeks ago.

“The tourists love it and the locals who know about it are die-hards now,” she reported.

Folk music, spoken word and storytelling are set to be joined by everything from comedy acts to inspiring documentary films through the coming months. Taking place every Saturday and Sunday night (continuing on through fall and winter with the addition of heat lamps), the entertainment unfolds for guests seated at the same level as the performers.

Sanyal said the space itself and the high quality of performers from on and off island have combined to create a unique experience.

“What we’ve found is that it’s just magical on these nights. The enclave is so intimate it can only hold 40 to 45 people, and it’s filled to the brim. Everybody is feeding off the energy of each other.”

Vegetarian and organic foods prepared for the café include heritage grain baked goods, veggie burgers and specialty sandwiches, while Sanyal also recommends the spicy homemade chai, superfood smoothies and raw chocolate.

To harmonize with the menu and the business intention, the performers she books are also a careful choice.

“It’s very important that they fit energetically. It’s a small, intimate venue so we feed off the performers as well,” Sanyal said, but added, “It’s been effortless because the talent continues to pour in.”

Local participants so far have included Ahava Shira, Oscar Kempe and James Mujuru. Off-island guests include Vancouver recording artists Buckman Coe, Alessandra Naccarato and Moe Clark, while Sooke-based musician Ty Cooke has faithfully returned each week. At least three performers take the stage each night, although an incredible total of 17 passed through on one recent weekend.

“After these performances people are uplifted — friendships are made and bonds are formed that will last forever,” Sanyal said.

“It’s pretty special.”

Entertainment takes place between 7 and 10 p.m. with special weekday dates on occasion. Check event listings for line-ups each week. Music is by donation.

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