CENTRE WELLINGTON – Adrian Sutherland is a roots-rock artist with heart from Attawapiskat First Nation, a place he still chooses to call home.
He was also a 2022 Juno nominee for Contemporary Indigenous Artist of the Year, and he’s coming to the Fergus Grand Theatre on March 11.
Sutherland is also a father, grandfather, and knowledge keeper. Fluent in Mushkegowuk Cree, he was also the founder and frontman of the all-Cree rock band Midnight Shine.
In 2019 Sutherland shifted to solo projects, and completed his debut solo album after building his own recording studio in a sea-can during the pandemic.
“This could be the biggest show in our season so far,” says theatre coordinator Eric Goudie.
“Adrian is one of those musicians that I knew I wanted to book as soon as I heard him play. He’s got a sound that I think this community is going to fall in love with.”
Sutherland cares deeply about many causes, and is using his music and voice to share first-hand perspective on issues facing First Nations like contaminated water, housing shortages, food insecurity, addiction, mental health, and suicide.
At a time of growing awareness about reconciliation, Sutherland is hopeful for Canadians to better understand one another, and take further steps together.
Passionate about making a difference, Sutherland is driven to ensure young people have access to arts, education, recreation, and land-based learning.
He’s a Master Corporal with the Canadian Ranger Patrol, guiding youth on wilderness trips.
He launched a music program supported by MusiCounts, and was instrumental in bringing ArtsCan Circle to his community.
The show in Fergus is the second-to-last installment in the Fergus Grand Theatre’s “Better Together” Presenting series.
Tickets are available in the box office, by phone at 519-787-1981, or online at www.fergusgrandtheatre.ca.
