Like most words in the English language, the meaning of the word "picnic" is mutable, and the expression can also indicate "something which has multiple contributors or sources---a collection." The word is an apt description for CKDU's annual mid-summer jamboree. Held this year on the South Common Triangle, the CKDU Community Picnic offers a chance for the radio station---operating under the tagline "real radio for real people"---to show those real people some appreciation for their support throughout the year.
Featuring performances from Rich Aucoin, Al Tuck and Samba Nova, among others, the picnic is at heart a musical event.
The lineup is reflective of CKDU's policy to cultivate local, independent musicians, running the spectrum from frenetic dance-pop to Brazilian beats to more tranquil folk melodies. Appropriate for an event organized by a radio station, the picnic is also an opportunity for musicians to interact with new audiences---as Al Tuck points out "It can't hurt to step out from behind the curtain and engage passersby."
CKDU station coordinator Gianna Lauren emphasizes that both musically and otherwise, the picnic is meant to be as inclusive and accessible as possible.
"CKDU is a diverse organization and there's something in it for everyone" Lauren says. "We have an open-door policy that invites anyone to get involved, and the picnic is another way of expressing that."
In keeping with CKDU's determination to foster local initiatives of all kinds, the picnic also includes a bevy of businesses to ensure that attendees are not only fed and entertained, but also coiffed, caffeinated and sugar-high as ventures such as One Block Barbershop, Java Blend and Dee Dee's offer their wares.
As an event that features contributions from around the community, the picnic is both an illustration of the productive potential of collective action, and of CKDU's capacity to sustain that collectivity.
"Theres something about a picnic that is truly inviting," Lauren notes. "Plus, we believe that music and food are a fantastic combination."
CKDU Community Picnic w/Al Tuck, Dark for Dark, Ray Finkles, Nick Everett, Samba Nova and Rich Aucoin, Saturday, August 18 at Halifax Common, 12-9pm
