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Diamond fundraiser for Fort Mac

“A Celebration of Neil Diamond” will be held Wednesday, May 18, as a fundraiser for the victims of the Fort McMurray fire.
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Jason Scott’s ‘Diamond Forever’ celebration of Neil Diamond will hold a fundraising concert May 18 at the Key City Theatre.

Barry Coulter

Jason Scott was only halfway through watching the news clip when he knew what he had to do.

The renowned Neil Diamond tribute artist from Cranbrook saw the images of devastation from Fort McMurray and at once conceived of a benefit concert for the residents of that city and environs — more than 90,000 who have been forced to evacuate in the teeth of a raging wildfire.

“I got on the phone right away with Ben Blomande [PB Pro Audio], and I hadn’t even finished talking before he cut me off and said he’d donate his time, expertise, equipment and crew.”

The Key City Theatre was not long in getting on board, and a fundraising concert for the evacuees of Fort McMurray is going ahead, May 18.

Scott said he wanted to hold the event just prior to Victoria Day.

“People can see a great show, we’ll raise a lot of money, and then they can head out for the long weekend” he said.

“I just got off the phone with the Red Cross. The cheque will be made out to them after the show, and they’ll have a table set up there was well to accept any more donations.”

The devastating fire in Northern Alberta prompted the evacuation of more the 90,000 people, and caused immeasurable destruction. The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support from around the country, and Cranbrook has been no exception.

Jason Scott’s “Diamond Forever” show is one of the foremost tributes to Neil Diamond performing today — getting glowing reviews from around Western Canada and the U.S. Scott is featured in an intriguing feature film — “Diamond Mountain” — which pays homage to Neil Diamond through portraits of Diamond tribute artists. Scott is the only Canadian in the production, which premiered last month in Los Vegas.

Jason Scott’s “Diamond Forever — A Celebration of Neil Diamond” will be held Wednesday, May 18, at the Key City Theatre as a fundraiser for the victims of the Fort McMurray fire. Local singer-songwriter Dawson Rutledge is also on the bill. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the Key City Theatre.