A local pageant veteran is excited to spread the power of music as she teams up with members of the Northern Arts Academy for a live charity concert in the city’s downtown this evening.
As part of her work with the Miss Ontario Regional Canada Pageant in Sudbury, Emma Dingle has helped organize tonight’s “Celebration of Song” event in support of the Northern Ontario Families of Children with Cancer.
Attendees will have the chance to witness performances from David Dellaire, Keiko Larocque, Ryan Mauro, NAA Community Choir, as well as several special guests including members of the Jersey Boys.
“We have jazz, classical, pop, theatre – a little bit of everything,” Dingle told SooToday. “We have so many amazing performers and such a great selection of songs. Everyone’s been volunteering their time and they’re just so passionate about it.”
Dingle, a Waterloo grad and Women in Crisis worker, is hoping to raise $1,000 for the event.
Last year, the support worker finished as first runner-up at Miss Ontario. Getting ready to head back for her third appearance this week, she’s hoping to get over the hump and claim the title.
“I was super close last year,” she said. “This year, I thought I would give it one more shot, go back, and see if I can take the crown. I’m really excited.”
Running since 2006, the three-day provincial competition consists of interviews with the judges, an essay, public speaking, and scored questions on stage.
Considered a favourite going into Sudbury this week, Dingle would be lying if she said there wasn’t any pressure.
But ultimately, she’s just looking forward to representing the Sault and enjoying herself.
“It really is a mindset game when you go to compete,” she said. “You’re in a room with 30 women who are equally as passionate and as talented and as accomplished as you, so you have to be unshakeable in your mindset.”
“There’s also something very heartfelt and touching about representing my community,” she added. “Pageantry is definitely a misunderstood industry, there are people who think they’re out-dated and bring down women, but the system is incredible. I’ve had so much community support and it’s meant so much to me.”
The Celebration of Song charity concert begins this evening at 7 p.m. inside Central United Church.
Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door or online.
All proceeds will be donated to Northern Ontario Families of Children with Cancer, a non-profit that provides services, financial support, and education for families who have been touched by childhood cancer.
“We have such a vibrant arts community in the Sault,” Dingle said. “Our performers are seriously the most kind and compassionate people. We’d really love to fill the room.”