The incomparable Sunparlour Players performance for Transit proved to be our biggest production yet. Yes, when the choir – all 9 of them – began assembling on the sidewalk at the McCaul St. turnaround we knew were in for something special. Throw in a few sets of parents, a bunch of friends, and of course our crew, and the streetcar was completely packed and abuzz.

We’d just finished a rousing set with Revival Dear and so we took our time gathering everyone together before boarding the streetcar; enjoying the gorgeous weather and getting to know each other a little bit. It took longer than usual to set up the mics and figure out how to set up the arrangements which included a glockenspiel, accordion, guitars, tambourines and a clarinet.

Heading westbound along one of our favourite routes -- the Humber Loop -- Andrew, "Rosie" and Dennis belted out a rousing version of "Battle of 77" that literally rocked the whole streetcar as we rolled through Parkdale towards the Loop. After taking a quick break to walk around the grassy turnaround, we boarded back in and for the return ride the band and choir combined for an emotionally charged version of "Build It Up".

At the risk of being overly romantic about these guys, it really felt like something spiritual happened on the streetcar during their performances. If you've ever seen them play, you'll know what i 'm talking about. There is such a warmth and almost mad passion in Andrew's performance that you can't help but be completely riveted. "Rosie" (who we swear could double for Jeremy Piven) and Dennis were consumate players, and when you add the power of a choir to the show, Sunparlour Players truly demonstrate the incredible power of song.

-- cb