Canadian Blues Talent Takes Centre Stage at May 26 Celebration
The Escarpment Blues Society (EBS) will mark its third anniversary with a high-profile gala concert on May 26, bringing together some of Canada’s most respected blues performers for an evening aimed at celebrating the genre’s continued growth and community impact.
Billed as the “3rd Degree Gala,” the event will take place at the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre in Ancaster, Ontario, and feature a lineup that includes Morgan Davis, Miss Angel Brown, Shawn Kellerman, Kim Doolittle, Lily Sazz, Steve Strongman, Chris Ayries, and Roly Platt.
A Growing Platform for Blues and Roots Music
Founded in 2023, the Escarpment Blues Society has positioned itself as a regional hub for blues and roots music, with a mandate to promote live performance and support Canadian artists. The annual anniversary concert, held each May, has quickly become a cornerstone event for the organization.
“Since the Big Launch of the Escarpment Blues Society in 2023, tradition has kept May as the Anniversary date to celebrate Blues and Roots music with a stellar lineup of world class musicians.” says Ken Wallis, President of the Escarpment Blues Society. “This is the third edition of the EBS celebration, and it is a concert that continues to salute the very best music has to offer.”
The 2026 gala will again feature the EBS Allstars as the house band, including Dave King on drums, Colin Lapsley on bass, and Jesse O’Brien on keyboards. The ensemble will provide backing for the evening’s performers, creating a collaborative format that highlights both individual artistry and group dynamics.
Artistic Direction and National Talent
This year’s event is being led by artistic director Steve Strongman, a prominent figure in Canada’s blues scene. Strongman emphasized both the calibre of performers and the broader significance of the event within the national music landscape.
“I’m thrilled to be the artistic director of the Escarpment Blues Society’s Third Gala”, says Steve Strongman. “This year’s lineup consists of world class talent from across Canada. It’s a pleasure to get to be onstage with these incredible performers. The EBS is very excited to support the Good Shepherd with the auction of a Godin guitar, made exclusively in Canada. This will be a night to remember !”
In addition to showcasing established and emerging talent, the gala will incorporate a charitable component, with proceeds from a guitar auction supporting Good Shepherd, a Hamilton-based social services organization. The inclusion of a Canadian-made Godin guitar underscores the event’s focus on supporting domestic craftsmanship alongside musical talent.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Events such as the EBS anniversary gala contribute to the local cultural economy by drawing audiences to live venues and supporting artists, technicians, and related businesses. With ticket pricing set at $62.72 plus HST, organizers are positioning the concert as both a premium entertainment offering and an accessible cultural experience.
The Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, located at 357 Wilson Street East, will host the event, with doors opening at 7:00 p.m. and the show beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available through online platforms and the venue’s box office, with discounts offered to Escarpment Blues Society members.
Building Momentum in Canada’s Blues Scene
As the Escarpment Blues Society enters its fourth year, the anniversary gala reflects broader momentum within Canada’s blues and roots music sector. By combining high-profile talent, community engagement, and charitable initiatives, the organization continues to expand its role within the regional arts ecosystem.
The May 26 concert is expected to reinforce EBS’s reputation as a key promoter of blues music in Ontario, while providing audiences with a curated showcase of Canadian musicianship.
With a focus on collaboration, performance excellence, and community support, the 3rd Degree Gala signals the organization’s ongoing commitment to sustaining and growing the blues tradition in Canada.