SURREY — An annual “Toy Jam” benefit concert this weekend will feature two bands that are dedicated to charity-only performances.
Both Big Back Yard and Co. and The Ring Tones are headliners at the event, set for Saturday night (Nov. 21) at Crescent Beach Legion in South Surrey.
“We met at the March of Dimes Battle of the Bands some eight years ago, and have been partnering for the last five years in charitable events,” said Doug Holt, who plays guitar for Big Back Yard and Co.
The band has hosted Jason Buie’s “Toy Jam” gig over the past few years.
Buie, a blues-rock guitarist, once lived in White Rock and now calls Vancouver Island home.
Those who attend Saturday’s event are encouraged to bring new toys and non-perishable food items to fill hampers for kids in need this Christmas. Cover charge is $10 and doors open at 7:30 p.m.
“All the participants are volunteering their time so that 100 per cent of the funds and sundry raised is passed on to the sponsored charity,” explained Holt.
The event will also include performances by Nikita & the Party Crashers, a party-rock covers band, and Close Both Doors, which features Grade 12 students at Southridge School.
Holt is a Surrey Now newspaper employee, as are Beau Simpson and Tom Zillich, both members of Nikita & the Party Crashers.
For the gig, Gordy Brown, who drums and arranges harmony vocals for Big Back Yard and Co., is supplying all the sound and lighting gear at no charge, Holt noted.
“It is also significant to note that the Crescent Beach Legion does not charge us a stage fee, and we share the 50/50 for the night with them,” Holt added.
The Legion hall is located at 2643 128th St., Surrey.
Now staff