With the seasons changing, and public health orders shifting, it is finally possible for the Gorge Hall to host dances again: the Whaletown Community Club (WCC) presents the Jesse Roper Show this Friday, May 27. Considering Roper’s fame, and the size and limited accessibility of this small rural island, making these shows happen is quite a feat.

Roper and his band are drawn to the island by social connections. Mark Fraser has held the position of “Social Convener” for several years now, creatively sourcing talent, like Roper, for dances at the Gorge Hall. Fraser enticed Roper to book this show using his island-renowned tacos to persuade the band. The band also lined up a show at the relatively nearby Waverly in Cumberland, following their performance on Cortes.

Local live music dances are a Cortes Island pastime made possible by a local volunteer force of individuals and non-profits: the WCC is an example of this socially-driven teamwork. Fraser emphasizes the importance of making these shows safe, fun and friendly for the whole family. He also notes the ongoing need for new energy and volunteers.

This Friday, opening acts for the Jesse Roper Show include Johnny Hanuse, as well as Rick and Amy Bockner. Doors are at 8 p.m. and pre-sale tickets are available at the Gorge store and the Cortes Market. If you would like to volunteer for the WCC, reach out to Fraser at piousarc@gmail.com.

Find out how Mark Fraser teams up with bands like Jesse Roper to make music happen on this rural island in this Cortes News update: