The North Island Concert Society is celebrating its 11th season in the 2008-2009 year. Originally formed by Gwen Doi, Malcolm Fleeton, Maureen Lee and Gretchen Frith, the Society is dedicated to providing a series of concerts in a variety of musical styles. The District of Port Hardy provided a start-up grant, and a large amount of support was given by the Port Hardy Lions Club and the Port Hardy Rotary Club. In the last three seasons the Concert Society has averaged around 250 members in its season ticket base and garnered record attendances of over 400 people for groups such as The Nylons. All NICS performances are hosted at the Port Hardy Civic Centre. This non-profit Society is comprised of a small group of dedicated volunteers who appreciate your support as ticket holders. Financial assistance is provided by the BC Arts Council, in the form of a grant, and by the Port Hardy Lions Club.

Each season the directors of the Concert Society survey the concert-goers in an ongoing attempt to bring in performers that meet the needs of the North Island population. The board meets ten times a year, around the time of each concert, to discuss each performance and to seek new ideas on how we can improve. Meetings are open to “Friends of the Society” as well as the directors. Our Annual General meeting is held at the end of the season, usually in June or July, and is open to anyone.

Last year's line up featured some amazing acts by a wide range of performers. We included the fabulous Rick Tippy, a New Orleans jazz performance by New Orleans North, Canadiana performances by The Dust Poets, House of Doc and the hilarious antics of the master musician Todd Butler.

We're off to a great start, so come on out and join us for another great year of performances!