The town’s historic past comes to life on the silver screen in Fergus Then and Now.
Presented by the Fergus 175 committee, Fergus Then and Now combines films shot by historian and publisher Hugh Templin with new footage created by Cogeco’s Larry Peters that vividly shows Fergus as it was then … and today.
The 45-minute film also includes interviews with long-time Fergus residents who tie the whole project together.
Presented to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the founding of Fergus and the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Fergus Grand Theatre, the film opens with a "world premiere" gala on Thursday, Nov. 27 at 7:30pm. In keeping with the 1920s, the committee is encouraging guests to dress in the "glam" of the era.
“When Larry came forward with this Cogeco community piece for 2008, we were delighted that he would allow us to feature the film as part of our 175th year of celebration. We hope this will be a special remembrance for Fergus residents young and old." said committee chairman Mary Lloyd. The red carpet gala opening that includes a champagne reception and post-show get-together.
The Fergus Grand Theatre, built by the Fardella family originally as a movie theatre, has been a cable TV studio and community theatre, and is now the main theatre for the Elora Community Theatre group.
Fergus elementary schools can book times to see the film Nov. 27 and 28.
Public screenings are scheduled for Nov. 27 at 7:30pm, and Nov. 28 at 1:30pm – with special historic prices of $1.75 per seat.
The Fergus 175 steering committee will finish the anniversary year with a bang – a New Year’s Eve celebration downtown.
Fergus First Night last year was such a crowd favourite the committee decided to repeat the experience this year as a fitting end to a year of successful activities.
Live music, family entertainment, and an on-stage countdown at 9pm and midnight complete with fireworks to bring in the New Year are among the events being planned for this final Fergus 175 celebration.
Tickets to the Nov. 27 world premiere gala are limited and cost $17.50 each, and are available at the Scotiabank and Fergus Grand Theatre. To book a school performance, contact Libby Walker at the Wellington County Museum at 519-846-0916 extension 224.
Tickets for the Nov. 28 and 29 screenings are available at the door.
