PRESS RELEASE

October 25, 2005

Contact: Lorinda Nelson, General Manager

Kleenex Celebration on Ice
at the Cranbrook Recplex

Tuesday, March 7, 2006 – 7:30 pm

The Kleenex Celebration On Ice tour will be at the Cranbrook Recreation Complex in the Spring of 2006. Featuring a star studded cast which includes Kurt Browning, Brian Orser, Elvis Stojko, Shae-Lynn Bourne and many more, the residents of the Kootenays will be treated to sensational skating witnessing some of the world’s best skaters!

Celebration On Ice is an evening of world-class entertainment in a wholesome, family-oriented atmosphere. When the lights go down, the audience will get their first hint of what's to come from the spectacular lighting and sound system. Anticipation will build with cast announcements, revealing one National icon after the next. A typical night's cast will have as many as 10 World and 40 Canadian Championships to its credit.

Choreographed by Brian Orser, cast group numbers pull the entire cast together seamlessly. From there, one by one the stars perform.

Celebration on Ice is truly a celebration of skating, showcasing the best Canadian talent rediscovering their roots. Skaters on their first steps to World Champions celebrate a Canadian heritage of skating.

Tickets go on sale for this exciting event at 10:00 am on Thursday, November 3, 2005 at the Cranbrook Recplex Box Office or charge by phone by calling 250-426-SEAT.
After Nov. 3rd tickets can be purchased at the Cranbrook Recplex Administration Office: Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm or charge by phone during these hours by calling 250-426-SEAT (7328).

Ticket Prices: inclusive of GST and service charges.

$28.00 End Sections – Family Pack – Must purchase package of 4 tickets
$42.00 End Sections
$50.00 Side Sections
$75.00 On Ice
$112.00 On Ice – VIP Seats

May 25, 2005

The “World Famous”
LIPIZZANER STALLIONS

Press Kit PDF 75KB

Saturday, July 23 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday, July 24 at 2 pm.

The Lipizzaner Stallions are on their 35th Anniversary Tour in 2005. In 1970, Producer Gary Lashinsky created a new family arena attraction, starring The "World Famous" LIPIZZANER STALLIONS.

Many horses and riders were brought from Europe to perform in this unique family oriented arena attraction. Over the years, twenty-three million people throughout North and South America, Great Britain, Europe, Australia and Hawaii have seen this internationally acclaimed spectacle.

2005 represents the 35th Anniversary season of The Lipizzaner Stallions. All new music, choreography and routines have been incorporated in this anniversary edition with a major emphasis on the historical background and foundation of the Lipizzaner breed, from its original breeding and use as a horse of war to a horse of nobility and aristocracy to a living form of equestrian art. The show emulates the Spanish Riding School of Vienna, Austria, in its presentation of Lipizzans, and maintains a traditional as well as entertaining performance similar in many ways to what you would see at the Spanish Riding School of Vienna.

Also included in the performance is a segment called the "Airs Above the Ground." These are the spectacular leaps and maneuvers, once used by riders in saddle to protect and defend themselves on the battlefield, which are now preserved as an equestrian work of art. When you see the Lipizzans perform, it is like stepping back four hundred years and viewing one of the greatest equine ballets in history.

The Lipizzan is a rare and unique breed; its history and culture is known worldwide. The Walt Disney movie The Miracle of the White Stallions, depicting General George S. Patton saving them at the end of World War II from certain extinction, created an even greater world-wide interest in the Lipizzaner breed. Had it not been for Patton, there would be no Lipizzans today.

Although the Lipizzans star in this presentation, the ancestral forefather of the Lipizzan, the Spanish Andalusian, is featured in a high school presentation with special wardrobe themed to traditional Spanish music.

Not only is the Andalusian shown in saddle, but also in a unique presentation where the rider performs all the maneuvers of the Grand Prix Olympic level dressage on the longline, while walking behind the horse and guiding him through his paces.

The current tour features 12 to 14 stallions performing selected maneuvers as described above in an exciting presentation.

The conclusion of the performance of The Lipizzaner Stallions is the traditional Grand Quadrille, featuring six to eight Lipizzaner Stallions with their riders performing an intricate, equine ballet, exhibiting maneuvers through the highest level of dressage. The Lipizzans prance, march and intricately weave their way across the floor to the music of the Masters in a spectacular ballet of four-footed white dancers.

Harkening back to time when the horse was a symbol of grace and majesty, the Lipizzaner Stallions are truly a great experience to be enjoyed by the entire family. One does not need to be a horse lover to enjoy "The Equestrian Treat of the Century"!

April 19, 2005

GEORGE CANYON
In Concert at the Cranbrook Recplex
Sam Steele Days 2005

Press Kit PDF 33 KB

Friday, June 17, 2005 7:30 pm Tickets: $35.50 (includes GST & service charges)
Cranbrook RecPlex

Canada’s newest country superstar, George Canyon, will be making a stop in Cranbrook as part on Sam Steele Days, Friday, June 17, 2005.

This tall, modest 34 year old singer placed 2nd in the USA Networks 2004, Nashville Star Contest, instantly making him a household name to millions of country music fans. Soon after the show, Canyon signed a record deal with Universal and a management deal with Garth Brooks Management team. Canyon has been thrust into the spotlight at warp speed. His first major label CD release called One Good Friend debuted at #1 on Canadian Music Charts and his first three singles from the album all charted in the top 10 across Canada. His hit single Good Day to Ride, an independent release, burned up the charts and spent more than 14 weeks on radio station playlists.

Canyon’s 2nd single from the One Good Friend album, My Name, reached #1 on CMT, Canada’s Top 20 video, the last week in March.

The accolades for the New Glasgow, Nova Scotia native continue. Recently he took home 3 East Coast Music Awards for Recording of the Year, Rising Star of the Year, and the coveted Entertainer of the Year Award. At the recent Juno Awards in Winnipeg he won the Juno for Country Recording of the Year for his debut album One Good Friend.

John Sheehan, the Sam Steele Chairperson, for this year’s festivities said, “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to be able to get George Canyon for Sam Steele Days. He is the most popular male vocalist in the country right now and is a great addition to our celebration this year.”

Tickets will be going on sale to the public Saturday, April 23, 2005, at 10:00 am at the Cranbrook Recplex Box Office or you can charge by phone by calling (250) 426-SEAT.

PRESS RELEASE

August 16, 2004

Great Big Sea - With National Tour, Fall 2004

( Halifax , NS ) – To celebrate the release of their sixth studio album Something Beautiful (Warner) multi-platinum Warner recording artists Great Big Sea will tour over 27 Canadian cities in The Beautiful Tour . The first leg will take place this September and October.

*** more dates to be announced in central and eastern Canada in early September.

"It's been just over two years since we toured Canada from coast to coast,” says front man Alan Doyle. “We've spent so much time bringing our music around the world and are so excited to be home.  This one is going to be very special for us as we plan to take an extended break in 2005."

Released nationally in February in both Canada and the United States the GOLD- certified Something Beautiful is the follow-up to Great Big Sea's PLATINUM-certified Sea Of No Cares , which debuted at #1 on the Canadian sales chart and garnered five 2003 ECMA Awards ( Album Of The Year , Group Of The Year , Entertainer Of The Year , Video Of The Year , and Pop Artist Of The Year ). The group's last five records have debuted in the top ten Canadian sales chart.

Most recently, the band released their first DVD collection titled Great Big DVD , which has surpassed DOUBLE PLATINUM in sales. In their 10 year career, Great Big Sea has sold in excess of one million records in Canada .

Great Big Sea is Alan Doyle (vocals, guitar), Bob Hallett (vocals, fiddle, mandolin, bouzouki, whistles, Irish flutes, accordions), and Sean McCann (vocals, guitars, bodhran, tin whistle), joined by Murray Foster (vocals, bass guitar) and Kris MacFarlane (drums, percussion, accordion, vocals).

Special guest for The Beautiful Tour is singer songwriter Jimmy Rankin ( www.jimmyrankin.com ). Following his incredible success with The Rankins, Rankin released his first solo record Song Dog in 2001 to rave reviews. He won numerous accolades and nominations including a Canadian Radio Music Award for Best New Solo Artist - Adult Contemporary, numerous ECMA's and two Juno nods. Rankin is currently touring to support his latest CD Handmade , released this past year.

For a detailed list of Great Big Sea tour dates and on sale and ticket information, please visit: www.greatbigsea.com

For photos and interview opportunities, please contact:

Jonathan Elder, Warner Music Canada

/

For Jimmy Rankin photos and/or interview opportunities, please contact:

Wendy Phillips, Sonic Entertainment Group

/

For marketing, please contact:

Nancy Romanycia, Jeff Parry Promotions

(Ex: 10)/

CRANBROOK

Concert Cabaret

GA standing room only on the floor and reserved seating in the stands

Wednesday, October 6th - 8:00pm

Cranbrook RecPlex

Tickets on sale Friday August 20, 2004

At Cranbrook RecPlex box office

Monday to Saturday, 10:00am to 5:00pm

June 8, 2004

CONTACT: Lorinda Nelson, Assistant General Manager, Cranbrook Recplex

The NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND will be performing live in concert on July 8, 2004 at the Cranbrook Recplex.

With a career that spans five decades and the original lineup still intact, the CMA , IBMA and Grammy Award winning NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND continue to tour, record and garner music award nominations.

Along with numerous gold and platinum albums, the Dirt Band has been honored with exhibits in both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well as the Country Music Hall of Fame.

From the groundbreaking “Will The Circle Be Unbroken” series of recordings, the recently released “Circle III” has added yet a 10 th Grammy nomination, a 2003 International Bluegrass Music Association Award and a new CMA nomination (with Johnny Cash) to the bands' honors this year.

Self described as an “American Music Band”, over the years their records have been played by radio stations of almost every format; from rock to country to bluegrass and Americana .

In the past year the band's television appearances have included The Late Show with David Letterman, Jay Leno's Tonight Show and public televisions one hour special Farther Along featuring the Dirt Band with guests from the three "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" albums.

Playing 37 years of hits, from Mr. Bojangles, Ripplin Waters, An American Dream, Dance Little Jean, to Fishin in the Dark, from revved-up Cajun music to songs from the Circle Recordings, the band attracts several generations of fans to it's live shows. Whether it be a huge stage at an outdoor festival, a packed grandstand at a state fair, an intimate opera house, a theater on a college campus or a private corporate date the band's mix of acoustic and electric instruments, rich vocals and traditional and contemporary music define them as still being one of the premier touring acts and entertainers in the business today.

Jeff Hanna, Jimmy Ibbotson, Jimmie Fadden, John McEuen and Bob Carpenter have collaborated to create something very unique and very special. As one writer so aptly put it the NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND “An American Treasure”.

Tickets go on sale, Monday, June 14th at 10:00 am at the Cranbrook Recplex. Tickets also available online at www.ticketswest.com or by phone at 1-800-325-SEAT or 426-SEAT, convenience fees are applicable.

Ticket price is $35.50 including GST and all service charges.

Booking exclusively by: James Yelich · Monterey Peninsula Artists ·

PRESS RELEASE

MONDAY, MARCH 15, 2004
CRANBROOK RECREATION COMPLEX

CONTACT: LORINDA NELSON

Clyde Simmons has been appointed as the new General Manager of the Cranbrook Recreation Complex.

Over the past three years, Mr. Simmons has successfully managed the Cornerbrook Pepsi Centre (ex-Canada Games Centre) in Cornerbrook, Newfoundland. His duties will now be split between the two facilities.

Mr. Simmons has spent most of his life on the east coast. He was born in Cornerbrook, Newfoundland and moved to Summerside, Prince Edward Island to play Junior A hockey and complete his high school education. He then went on to St. Mary's University in Halifax, Nova Scotia where he continued his hockey career before moving to Fredricton New, Brunswick. He played varsity hockey at the University of New Brunswick where he also obtained a Degree in Sports Management. As captain of the varsity team during his senior year he was the recipient of the Mark Jeffrey Memorial Award given to the player that most exemplifies leadership, dedication and inspiration. Mr. Simmons is married with three young children, a member of the Board of Trade, executive member of the Cruise Association of Newfoundland, Chairman of Fundraising for the Immaculate Heart of Mary School, and an active board member of the Tourism Association of Cornerbrook.

Mr. Simmons is looking forward to this new opportunity and challenge, he will be arriving in Cranbrook on Sunday, March 21st and is excited about taking in two Kootenay Ice playoff games and the Nickelback Concert during his first week here. He is anxious to become a part of the management team at the Recplex, looks forward to getting to know the community and meeting its citizens.

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release – Entertainment Jeff Parry Promotions
Tuesday February 17, 2004 Patti MacNeil

Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance

International Phenomenon Brings High Octane Celtic Dance
To Cranbrook - Tickets on sale Friday February 20

Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance tour -- the international sensation that has broken box office records in more than 30 countries -- is coming to Cranbrook in April. Lord of the Dance also continues to be the permanent entertainment production at the Venetian Hotel's Showroom in Las Vegas, NV.

Audiences in Western Canada will have a chance to experience the extravaganza that has helped catapult Irish dancing into the global spotlight and created a new wave of Celtic dance mania. In less than five years, the show has brought a staggering 50 million people worldwide to their feet at sold out theaters, arenas and stadiums.

Michael Flatley, who originated the role of the Lord, serves as the artistic director and continues to oversee all aspects of the production. The first American to win the All-World Championship in Irish Dance, Flatley opened the show in Dublin in 1996.

"Lord of the Dance is so close to my heart," says Michael Flatley, creator of Lord of the Dance. "I am gratified by the wild applause and excitement of the audience night after night, country after country." The Guinness Book of World Records lists Flatley for having "the world's fastest feet" at 35 taps per second.

Thursday, April 8th - 8:00pm
Cranbrook Recplex
Tickets on sale Friday February 20, 2004
At the Cranbrook Recplex
Charge by phone 1-800-325-SEAT (7328)
Online at www.ticketswest.com
Tickets available 7 days a week 10:00am to 5:30pm
Ticket price: $60.00 plus service charges

www.lordofthedance.com

Publicity: Patti MacNeil
Marketing: Nancy Romanycia (ex 10)

FOR RELEASE AFTER 7:15 a.m. LOCAL TIME JANUARY 26, 2004
HOUSE OF BLUES CONCERTS CANADA & KOOTENAY CONCERT CONNECTION PRESENT

NICKELBACK

With special guests

FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH
CRANBROOK RECREATION COMPLEX

CRANBROOK, BC

DOORS 6:00 PM SHOW 7:00 PM

In the wake of their enormously successful third album, Silver Side Up, Vancouver's Nickelback have released their latest album, The Long Road, and in support they are embarking on their second 2004 Canadian Tour.

Formed in 1996 in Hanna, Alberta, Nickelback consists of vocalist/guitarist Chad Kroeger, guitarist/vocalist Ryan Peake, bassist Mike Kroeger and drummer Ryan Vikedal. Soon after releasing a seven-song demo, Hesher, which they supported with consistent gigs throughout Canada, the group released their debut album, Curb. In 1999 their second, self-produced album, The State was released on their own label with the single “Leader Of Men” drawing attention for the group. The group signed with Roadrunner Records and the album was re-released in the US at the beginning of 2000, eventually reaching Gold status.

In 2001 the group released the hit album, Silver Side Up, which went on to sell over nine million copies to date worldwide. The album achieved Gold, Platinum and multi-Platinum status in Canada (8x platinum), the US (5x Platinum), the UK (3x platinum), Australia (2x Platinum), Germany (Platinum) and Holland (Platinum). The album’s first single, "How You Remind Me” went on to win four Grammy Award nominations, four Billboard Awards, four Juno awards, countless radio accreditations and was the #1 Most Played Song of 2002, according to Billboard Monitor, and when "Too Bad" and "Never Again", the second and third #1 Rock singles from the album followed, the band won the #1 Most Played Rock Artist of 2002 Across All Radio Formats. Earlier this year the group released their latest album, The Long Road, and immediately scored a #1 hit on both sides of the border with the single “Someday”.

Having been described as equal parts melody, emotion and pure rock and roll, Nickelback’s stage performance has captured an ever-expanding fan base of devout followers and has blossomed quickly into an incredible commodity.

One of the biggest and most anticipated tour’s of the year, don’t miss Canada’s own, Nickelback during their 2004 Canadian tour.

Tickets $39.50 (INCL. GST) + f.f. + s/c

At the Cranbrook Recreation Complex Box Office

Charge By Phone 1-800-325-SEAT Or order on-line www.ticketswest.com

TICKETS ON SALE SATURDAY, JANUARY 31ST @ 10:00 AM

NICKELBACK Press/Media Requests: Gary Fredrich – EMI Music

Additional Information Contact: Geoff Robins – House of Blues Concerts

TEL: FAX: , , www.hob.com

PRESS RELEASE

SEPTEMBER 1, 2003

One of the world’s best-known ice shows is coming to the Cranbrook Rec Plex on November 15, 2003. The ice show called, MOSCOW ON ICE is a combination of the Russian Ballet on Ice and the Royal Russian Acrobatic Team. MOSCOW ON ICE’s blend of contemporary ice skating, circus gymnastics, and choreography makes the show a non-stop dynamic extravaganza which will appeal to the whole family, said publicity director, FJ Hurtak. “We have been looking for a family show like this since we did the wildly successful “Champions of Skating” show 2 years ago at the Plex. This is a different type of show but we feel it will be equally as interesting”.

The show will be produced by the Sunrise Rotary Club of Cranbrook, and The Kootenay Concert Connection.

In the past few years MOSCOW ON ICE has completed several highly acclaimed performances in North and South America, including the Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia, Argentina, England, France, Austria, Belgium, Spain, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Canada and USA. This year’s fall tour begins in the US and finishes with 9 dates in Canada, the last being Cranbrook on November 15.

If illusions, breath taking trapeze acrobatics and 12 stunning members of the Moscow Ballet performing show stopping numbers sounds like a fun night out, Tickets go on sale at 10 AM, Friday, September 5th, 2003 at the Rec Plex Box Office. Tickets are priced at $29.50 for adults and $25.50 for children, students and seniors, plus applicable service charges

There are over 29 performers in this outstanding show that has been created to capture the essence of Russian culture in a lively and colourful spectacle

Sponsored by: Bridge Interiors, Canadian Tire and Heritage Inn.

Media sponsors include the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group, The Townsman, Bulletin and Weekly Extra, and KBS all-hit radio.

PRESS RELEASE

MOUNTAIN FAITH CONCERTS PRESENTS SONICFLOOD

SONICFLOOD… the name has become synonymous with the onset of the youth-oriented praise and worship movement in the United States. Known for a contemporary pop/rock sound that appeals to teens and beyond, this group will be performing at the Cranbrook Recplex on Saturday, August 16, 2003 at 19:14 pm.

While many would argue that Sonicflood has helped to redefine the modern worship sound, the group is not content to rest on past awards and accolades and views redefinition as more of a process than a destination. Cry Holy is the next step within this process and though the sound of modern worship continues to evolve, Sonicflood’s focus remains the same as they seek to help thousands meet God face to face through their divinely inspired artistry.

In the past two years they had #1 songs, reader’s choice awards, a Dove Award winning RIAA certified gold record cover (500,000 units sold), and a recent GRAMMY nomination. With accolades such as this, how does one even begin to follow up a debut project with such acclaim.

There is only one way….. one must ‘resonate’ or echo the heart of God.

Sonicflood’s sophomore release does just that with music that rivals any pop-rock band on the charts today. Once again combining traditional worship choruses boasting a hard edged flair and some new songs penned by the members of sonicflood.

Tickets go on sale, Saturday, May 3, 2003 at 11:30 am at the Recplex Box Office or call 1-800-325 SEAT or online at www.ticketswest.com. Box office hours are Tuesday to Saturday 11:30 am – 5:30 pm.

Seats are priced at $33.00 for adults, $22.00 for youths (15 and under), and $99.00 for a family pass which includes 2 adults and 2 youths.

Check out our website Sonicflood’s website at www.sonicflood.com

PRESS RELEASE

CANADIAN MUSIC LEGEND TO PERFORM IN CRANBROOK

Released: April 16thy 2003

A Canadian rock music legend will perform in Cranbrook’s Recplex, Saturday, June 28, 2003. The Cross Country Tour is called, EVERY SONG TELLS A STORY and features Randy Bachman and his band. This show features music from 2 of Canada’s greatest Rock n Roll Bands, The Guess Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive.

Fans will hear about the evolution of some of the biggest hits in North American Rock History – songs like: Let It Ride, American Woman, Looking’ Out For No. 1, Takin Care of Business, No Sugar Tonight, No Time, You Ain’t Seen Nothin Yet, These Eyes and many more. All songs written or co-written by Bachman.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Bachman has become a legendary figure in the rock and roll world through his talents as a guitarist, songwriter, performer and producer. He has earned over 120 gold and platinum/singles awards around the world for performing and producing. His songwriting has garnered him the coveted, No. 1 spot on radio play lists in over 20 countries and he has amassed over 40 million records sold.

On the EVERY SONG TELLS A STORY tour, Bachman will be joined on stage by Colin Wiebe on keyboards and vocals, Mick Dalla-Vee on bass and Roge Belanger on drums.

The concert will be held in the 1100 seat Recplex Concert Bowl. Concert publicity director FJ Hurtack said, “This will guarantee that everyone who attends will have a great seat, and we’ve learned from experience that a smaller concert bowl also delivers the best sound at the Recplex. I would advise buying your tickets early to avoid disappointment.”

Tickets go on sale, Tuesday, April 22, 2003 at the Recplex Box Office or call 1-800-325 SEAT or online at www.ticketswest.com.....

All seats are priced at $32.50 including GST plus applicable service charges.

The EVERY SONG TELLS A STORY tour is presented by the Cranbrook Recplex and The Kootenay Concert Connection.

Sponsors include: The Drive 102.9, The Townsman, Bulletin, Weekly Extra and Bridge Interiors in Cranbrook.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Released: February 13th, 2002

Jeff Parry Promotions Patti MacNeil

Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance
Cancellation - Cranbrook

Due to scheduling conflicts, Lord of the Dance will not be able to perform their show scheduled for May 20th 2003 at the Cranbrook Rec Plex.
Every effort is being made to reschedule a performance in the future.

Refunds will be similar in nature to the customer purchase:

• Tickets bought at the Cranbrook Recplex box office will be reimbursed at the box office.

• Tickets bought through the Ticketswest phone center and internet must be mailed for refund to: Ticketswest - P.O. Box 6459 - Spokane, WA - 99217

Please note that the following shows will go on as scheduled:

Kelowna
Wednesday, May 21st - 8:00pm
Skyreach Place

Kamloops
Thursday, May 22nd - 8:00pm
Sport Mart Place

Vancouver
Friday, May 23rd - 8:00pm
Saturday, May 24th - 2:00pm & 8:00pm
Sunday, May 25th - 2:00pm & 7:00pm

For more information, please contact:
Patti MacNeil

PRESS RELEASE

Released: January 24th, 2003

Cody Snyder's "Bull Bustin'"

Ninety (90) of the world's best bull riders are coming to Cranbrook from 20 states in the US and 3 Western Canadian provinces to battle 60 bulls for over $40 000 in prize money at Cody Snyder's "Bull Bustin'". - set to go at the Cranbrook Rec Plex - March 28 and 29, 2003 at 7:30 pm.

This Challenger tour division event of the Professional Bull riders (PBR) showcases the best up and coming athletes who are vying for a place on the prestigious 9.5 million dollar Built Ford Tough Tour. Eventually, the top 45 riders from a field of nearly 800 end up competing in Las Vegas for the World Championships where the winner takes home a million-dollar prize.

"We always get the best guys, and we put them up against the best buckin' bulls anywhere. It's blood and guts, get down and dirty, rock and roll bull riding. There's startling pyrotechnics, lights, music, and it's one heck of a party," says Cody Snyder, World Champion Bull Rider. "People think they know what to expect, but they really don't know until they've been. It's action packed, but this ain't no rodeo," he adds.

Richard Gagnon, General Manager of the Cranbrook Recplex, said, "the roster won't be finalized until March 12th, 2003 but expected to show are reigning and 2 time PBRA World champ, Blue Stone, Scott Shiffner, 2001 Canadian Champion and 2 time Canadian Champion Rob Bell." He added that the top bull at the CFR "Lights Out", would be there, among the best bucking stock in Canada, hand picked by Cody Snyder.

Tickets for this world class event go on sale at the Recplex Box Office on Friday, January 31, 2003. Tickets start at $29.50 - $36.50 plus applicable service charges. You can also order by phone @ 1 800 325 SEAT or on line at www.ticketswest.com.

FJ Hurtak, publicity director for the show commented on the magnitude of such an event. "This show is playing in Regina, Edmonton, Medicine Hat and Winnipeg before coming to Cranbrook. On April 12 it plays the Saddledome in Calgary. We are extremely excited and proud of the fact Cody Snyder has chosen the Cranbrook Recplex for one of the PBR tour dates. I should also mention that we are doing a Cabaret at the Recplex immediately following each night's event, featuring the music of The Poverty Plainsmen and Duane Steele, and you're going to be able to party with the Bull riders at no extra charge. March 28 and 29 will definitely be nights to remember in Cranbrook's history."

Cody Snyder's "Bullbustin'" is presented by The Cranbrook Recplex. Associate Sponsors include: Bridge Interiors, Big Picture Audio Video, Top Crop Nurseryland, Feed and Pet Food Centre, Canadian Tire, Currier Contracting, Delta St. Eugene Mission Resort and Sandor Rentals.

Media Sponsors are Jim Pattison Broadcast Group, Townsman, Bulletin, Weekly Extra and The Kootenay Concert Connection.

For more information contact the Cranbrook Recplex at

PRESS RELEASE

Released: December 13th, 2002

Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance
Second Leg of National Tour

International Phenomenon Brings High Octane Celtic Dance to
Cranbrook
Tickets on sale Friday 13th December

Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance -- the international sensation that has broken box office records in more than 30 countries -- is returning to North America for the second leg of its national tour. Coming to Cranbrook Rec Plex, Tuesday May 20th 2003.

Audiences across the United States, Canada and Mexico will have a chance to experience the extravaganza that has helped catapult Irish dancing into the global spotlight and created a new wave of Celtic dance mania. In less than five years, the show has brought a staggering 50 million people worldwide to their feet at sold out theaters, arenas and stadiums. Lord of the Dance proved a top tourist draw during its four-year run at the New York New York Hotel in Las Vegas, NV and upon its close in July 2002, had put on 1560 performances for 1.3 million people.

Michael Flatley, who originated the role of the Lord, serves as the artistic director and continues to oversee all aspects of the production. The first American to win the All-World Championship in Irish Dance, Flatley opened the show in Dublin in 1996. "Our goal is to take the audience on a wondrous adventure that will ignite its minds and souls,” said Flatley. “We’ve combined traditional and modern forms of dance to create a high octane blend of soulful beats and feet that move too fast to comprehend.” Flatley is listed by The Guinness Book of World Records for having “the world’s fastest feet” at 35 taps per second.

Described by the New York Post as "fascinating, rewarding and above all, entertaining," and by the Los Angeles Times as "a showpiece extravaganza," Lord of the Dance is a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern Celtic music and dance. The story is a classic tale of good vs. evil based on old Irish folklore as Don Dorcha, the Dark Lord, challenges the Lord of the Dance. It is also a passionate love story that is expressed through dance numbers that transports audiences into a mystical and exhilarating world of intense passion. The action is played out on a grand scale with precision dancing, dramatic music, colorful costumes, state-of-the-art staging, lighting and pyrotechnics.

The Lord of the Dance troupe comprises Irish dance champions from around the world. These gifted performers stretch every boundary of a traditional form of dance that has evolved over more than 2,000 years. About Lord of the Dance, Flatley says, “It’s not ballet. It’s not tap. It’s not Flamenco. It’s something that I created from scratch because nothing else was just right.”

Cranbrook Rec Plex
Tuesday, May 20th - 8:00pm
Tickets on sale Friday
At the Rec Plex ticket office and at all Tickets West locations
Charge by phone 1-800-325 SEAT (7328)
Online at www.ticketswest.com
$60.00 plus service charges

For more information, please contact:
Patti MacNeil

Released: October 3, 2002

Contact: Richard Gagnon, General Manager,

Canadian Pop-Rockers, Blue Rodeo, will perform at the Cranbrook Rec Plex, Saturday, November 9th 2002, at 8 PM, as part of their most extensive Canadian tour ever.

The appearance will be a part of "The Palace of Gold Tour" that will take the band from Vancouver, BC to St. John's, NFLD and includes 40 performances in over 35 cities.

Lending their hot air to Blue Rodeo's songs will be the Bushwhack Horns led by Richard Underhill.

With their spectacular blend of Canadian Rock and alternative country, Blue Rodeo found a musical recipe 15 years ago and have built upon it ever since. For many Canadians the music of Blue Rodeo is the soundtrack for a particular time in their lives. The band has released eight studio albums. one live record, a greatest hits collection, and have sold nearly four million albums worldwide.

Tickets go on sale, Friday, October 4th, 2002, at 11:30am, at the Rec Plex Box Office or charge by phone at 1 800 325 SEAT, or on line at www.ticketswest.com.
All seating is reserved and priced at $32.50 inc. GST (plus applicable service charges).

The Blue Rodeo Concert with special guests, "The Sadies" is presented by House of Blues Concerts and the Cranbrook Rec Plex. Co-Sponsors include the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group, The Townsman, Bulletin, Weekly Extra and The Kootenay Concert Connection.

PRESS RELSEASE

Released: September 27, 2002

Contact: Richard Gagnon, GM

Canadian Country Superstar, Paul Brandt will make a stop at The Cranbrook Rec Plex, on October 29, 2002, as part of his Canadian Man Cross Canada Tour.

Brandt, recently hosted the Canadian Country Music Awards in Calgary in early September, and was the recipient of two major awards himself. The Calgary, Alberta native, was named, Canada’s Top Country Male Vocalist for 2002 and his latest album “Small Towns And Big Dreams” was voted Album of the Year in Canada. Brandt commented, “I wanted to bring the fans into my living room and sing and play for them the way I did when I was first getting started.” So “Small Towns And Big Dreams” was recorded live in 2001 in many small towns across Canada.

”The Rec Plex is excited to be able to attract an artist of Brandt’s calibre,” said Richard Gagnon, Cranbrook Rec Plex General Manager”we look forward to working with both Brandt and the College of the Rockies, Avalanche Volleyball Team which will be co-hosting the event.”

Toni O’Keefe, Director of College Relations said, “We see this as an incredible opportunity to support our Avalanche Volleyball Team, and we’re hopeful the team can go all the way to the Canadian National Championships this year. We’re very thankful to the Rec Plex for making this fundraiser available to us.”

Tickets go on sale, Saturday, September 28th, 2002 at The Rec Plex Box Office, for $32.50 plus applicable service charges. You can also order by phone at 1 800 325 SEAT or on line at www.ticketswest.com or at the College of the Rockies.

Brandt’s opening act for the October 29th Cranbrook date will be Doc Walker, recently voted the Independent Group of the Year at the CCMA awards.

For more information contact, FJ Hurtack at the Kootenay Concert Connection or .

Released: 6th September 2002

The Vancouver Canucks to Practice at the Cranbrook “Rec Plex”

Cranbrook, BC – Cranbrook “Rec Plex” General Manager Richard Gagnon announced today that The Vancouver Canucks, of the National Hockey League, are coming to the “Rec Plex”, Tuesday October 8th and Wednesday October 9th. The team will stop in Cranbrook for practices at the “Rec Plex” and team building activities, and will leave the East Kootenay region to play the Calgary Flames on October 10th.

“This is another exciting event for Cranbrook,” said Richard Gagnon, General Manager of the Cranbrook Rec Plex. “Cranbrook has a rich hockey history and now the “Rec Plex” provides us with a facility that can cater to NHL practices and training camps. The “Rec Plex” is honored to host the Vancouver Canucks”.

"We're pleased to be able to come to Cranbrook as we make our final preparations for the NHL season", said Canucks Head Coach Marc Crawford. "Cranbrook has a first class junior hockey program and we're hoping that some of the Kootenay magic we all saw last year rubs off on the Canucks this season."

The Canucks will practice in the morning and doors will be open to the public on both days at 10:30am .

The BreakAway Restaurant located at the “Rec Plex” will host a fund raising breakfast on October 9th featuring guest speakers Brian Burke, Vancouver Canucks President and General Manager and Marc Crawford, Vancouver Canucks Head Coach. Proceeds will be donated to the Canucks For Kids Fund.

Released: 25th July 2002

The Outlaws of Motorsports comes to Cranbrook Recplex

Cranbrook, BC - The Outlaws of Motorsports, Canada’s largest Monster
Truck and Motocross event, will be coming to the Cranbrook Recplex for
two shows, Friday, September 13th and Saturday, September 14th. Monster
Trucks, like “Jurassic Attack”, “Sheer Insanity”, “Maniac” and more will
battle it out, smashing and crashing everything in their way, for the right to
large truck supremacy. Also featured in the show is Xtreme Freestyle
Motocross. Xtreme Freestyle Motocross combines the thrills of motocross
with high-flying stunts that will literally take your breath away. There will
be a Tuff Truck Challenge as well as Modified Lawn Mower Racing.

“You will see some of the most experienced motocross riders around, doing
stunts you never thought possible,” said Richard Gagnon, General Manager
of the Cranbrook Recplex. “The Recplex is tremendously excited to be able
to bring a show of this caliber to the Kootenays.”

Tickets for the “Outlaws of Motorsports” are $22.50 for adults, $19.50 for
students and seniors and $17.50 for children 12 and under, GST included,
plus applicable service charges.

Tickets go on sale, Wednesday, August 7th at the Recplex Box Office or call
1 800 325 SEAT, or at www.ticketswest.com

Gold sponsors of the Outlaws of Motorsports include: Bridge Interiors,
Canadian Tire, Currier Contracting, Royal Landscaping, The Prestige Inn
and Overpass Auto Wrecking.

Media sponsors are: The Jim Pattison Group and The Townsman, Bulletin
and Weekly Extra.

Released: Thursday July 11 2002,

Cranbrook Rec Plex partners with Gold and Gold Productions Ltd.

Cranbrook, BC --- Keen Rose Technology Group Ltd announces that a partnership is now in place with event booking agency Gold and Gold Productions Ltd, a company based in Lethbridge Alberta and owned by Ron Sakamoto.

Richard Gagnon, General Manager of the Cranbrook Recreation Complex, is very pleased with this partnership. “We have been talking with Ron Sakamoto for the last 6 months and we are looking forward to working with him. Ron is one of the most successful event promoters in the country. His expertise will help us attract even more concerts and other type of entertainment in Cranbrook. Ron has been very successful over the last 30 years and he is a very well respected person in the entertainment business ”.

Sakamoto has won the Canadian Country Music Association Promoter Of the Year for the past 9 years in a row and was also named from Nashville the Country Music Association International Promoter of the Year in 2001.

Ron Sakamoto comments, “I am excited to be associated with Keen Rose and the Rec Plex. Cranbrook and the East Kootenay Region is a small market of just over 55,000 people. Variety, timing, scheduling and pricing are important factors when selecting events. Combine these with the status of the local economy and the demographic of the East Kootenay Region and you will understand that selecting events for Cranbrook will not be an easy task and will result in some financial risk for the promoter. There are not too many promoters who are ready to take risk in a small market and it does take a couple of years for a venue to build a strong reputation. Our partnership with Keen Rose (Rec Plex) will take on that challenge”.

The agreement is for a period of two years. Gold and Gold agreed to book 10 – 12 events at the Cranbrook Rec Plex each year. Events will be selected by Gold and Gold and submitted to the Cranbrook Rec Plex management for approval.

Rec Plex management will have options: 1. Rent the Arena to the promoter, agent or artist; 2. make a partnership between the Rec Plex, and the promoter, agent or artist or 3. buy and promote the event and develop partnership within the community.

Richard Gagnon, General Manager of the Cranbrook Rec Plex confirms the importance of partnership in the community. “Our most successful event was the Champions of Skating held at the Rec Plex on May 5, 2001. This event was co-promoted by the Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club, Columbia Kootenay Concert Productions and the Cranbrook Rec Plex. The promotion of this skating event should be a model to follow. In order to produce major costly events, we need the support of our local and regional service groups and business community. We need to be able to trigger ticket sales early and attract an average of 2500 people to each event. Ron Sakamoto will find quality events. The Rec Plex will produce most of them. We will be looking at developing more partnerships in our business community and make these events profitable. Our event marketing will be handle locally in partnership with Columbia Kootenay Concert Productions and our marketing alliance with the Delta St.Eugene Mission Resort”.

Other examples of a partnership between the Rec Plex and the community were The Superdogs events held at the Rec Plex in June. The Rec Plex, in partnership with the Cranbrook Kennel Club and The Sam Steele Society, offered another high quality family event that was attended by 2000 people during Sam Steele weekend.

“We are now working with leaders of the Cranbrook Lacrosse Association to host an National Lacrosse League at the Rec Plex”. Gagnon added.

Since November 2000, The Rec Plex has hosted over 25 events that included a variety of concerts, stage shows, professional and international sports events, religious gatherings, conventions, special fund raising, community celebrations, exhibitions and fair. This new working partnership between Keen Rose and Gold & Gold will help bring consistency in the scheduling of major ticketed events at the Rec Plex.

The last concert featuring Terri Clark was covered under the Keen Rose – Gold & Gold agreement. The next confirmed event will be the Outlaws of Motors Sports, on September 13 and 14, 2002. This 2 day event will feature the very popular Monster Trucks along with the excitement of extreme motocross. Tickets will be on sale in early August.

During the summer, the Rec Plex is planning to host the Gold in the Net Goaltending School (July 22-26), A Pro-Am hockey game (July 26), Circus Gatti (August 1), the very popular Rob and Scott Niedermayer Hockey School (August, 5-10), and the Jehovah’s Witnesses gathering (September 8).

It is estimated that over 350 000 people visit the Rec Plex each year.