From the Promoter

When Toronto songstress Melissa Lauren found out she was expecting a baby, it was a wonderful surprise to say the least. But what came as more of a surprise was the instant shift from within: suddenly, everyone was a baby in need of compassion. This was a somewhat jarring adjustment for someone who never really felt connected to children. In an attempt to productively deal with the helpless feelings attached to postpartum depression, Lauren is bringing her best assets forward and calling on her musical friends for a charitable night of song, with proceeds going to a charity closer to the singer than she realized.

“When deciding on a children’s charity, I basically researched which had a wide and diverse outreach. I have a contact at Catholic Children's Aid Society and so it seemed like enough of a reason to choose the organization. “

The kismet curve-ball was thrown when Melissa found out that Children’s Aid Foundation was involved in her own adoption 36 years ago. "In The Can" must be in the cards.

The fundraiser for Children’s Aid Foundation will feature some of the city’s finest singers and songwriters showcasing some of their best new, and mostly unreleased work. Taking Place at Hugh’s Room on January 19th the show will feature Laila Biali, Barbra Lica, Lori Cullen, Devin Cuddy, Alex Pangman, Genevieve Marentete, Ori Dagan, Whitney Ross Baris, Darcy Windover, Annie Bonsignore, The O’Pears, The Sinner’s Choir, Melissa and more. The talent will be backed by a house band of Nathan Hiltz on guitar, Tyler Emond on bass and David MacDougall on drums.

The idea is to invite the singers to showcase a yet to be released song, workshop it so to speak, or debut something on it’s way in or out of the recording studio (hence, “in the can”.)

“ These are some of my favourite singers in the city, and many have said they have the perfect song for this project. Some are even writing something new…I would love to turn this into an annual event.” says Lauren. “The night is turning into somewhat of a variety show, the acts range from jazz to folk to German lieder… and some pop-up surprises ! “

The Children's Aid Foundation is Canada's leading charity dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth involved with the child welfare system. It supports and delivers a broad range of high-impact programs and services that directly serve vulnerable children and youth across Canada. It’s programs address the many complex needs in the four key needs areas of education, healing and recovery, enrichment and prevention. Children's Aid Foundation works in partnership with over 60 child welfare agencies and youth-serving partners Canada-wide to impact its target population.

With proceeds going to the CAF, the night will feature two sets of songs, and a silent auction.

“The first time around, all I can hope for is to have some fun, support each other as musicians, and make some money for a great cause. As emotional an issue it is, I plan on making the evening fun, joyful and sprinkled with laughs.”

“In The Can” takes place on January 19th, 8:30pm at Hugh’s Room, 2261 Dundas Street. Silent Auction Begins at 8pm. Ticket’s are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, and can be purchased by calling (416) 531-6604 or visiting hughsroom.com.