It was a "triumphant" evening, so a performance from Rik Emmett of the legendary Canadian rock band Triumph was the perfect way to wrap up the Barrie Arts Awards last night.
Emmett's career highlights include Best Guitarist at the 1981 Junos, Best Smooth Jazz Guitarist in 2005 and an induction into the Canadian Rock Hall of Fame in 1993.
He thrilled the audience at the Southshore Centre, inspiring the artists and artisans recognized at the awards celebration.
Other performers included Lost Cousins, an up-and-coming Canadian indie rock band, guitarist Tim Beattie, Poet Laureate Damian Lopes, a dance performance from Saveeta Sharma and Tanya Farooq and the short film Delusion, 2nd place winner in the high school category at the Barrie Film Festival.
The Arts Awards program got its start in 2008, highlighting many success stories found in Barrie's arts community.
The goal is to bring "well deserved attention to artists for their contribution to our fair city."
It also honours local businesses that provide support to artists and arts organizations each year.
"tonight we are joining together to pay tribute and honour these incredible artists and arts supporters that add so much to our commuity," said MC Tony Grace.
"We congratulate them on all of the work they have done to make Barrie a vibrant and engaging community."
Here are this year's winners:
Contribution to the Community
- Shane L. Dennis
Business Award
- Mike Stollery
Excellence in the Arts
- Dr. Bruce Meyer
Most Promising Youth
- Amariah Faulkner
Emerging Artist
- Max Lupo
