The Vermilion Allied Arts second performance of its 2024/25 Series kicked off with an unforgettable evening of music, emotion, and female empowerment as Amber Bauer and her all-female band, Lady Sage, took the stage. Joined by opening act Abygale Durie, the night was a celebration of talent, connection, and heartfelt performances.
Abygale Durie, who opened the show, captivated the audience with her unique blend of original songs and cover performances. Known for her soulful renditions, she added her own spin to tracks by artists like Lainey Wilson and Zach Bryan. Durie concluded her set with her newly released song, “King of the Rodeo,” which debuted on September 13, 2024. The crowd was in awe, with audience member Patti Breland remarking, “Thank you, Abygale! So much talent! Best of luck with all the wonderful adventures that music leads you on!”
The headline act, Amber Bauer with Lady Sage, brought a special energy to the stage. Bauer, a local Vermilion talent, had long dreamt of assembling a band that celebrated women in music, particularly musical mothers. Over the past few months, through referrals and previous connections, she gathered a group of remarkable women to form Lady Sage. Most of the members hadn’t met in person until a single rehearsal the day before the show. Despite this, their chemistry and passion shone through, making the performance feel as if they’d been playing together for years.
Lady Sage features a dynamic lineup:
Tanya Ryan from Okotoks performed her heartfelt song “Dimes,” a touching tribute to a mother’s love for her son as he begins a new chapter in life.
Leslie Gruhn from Edmonton, a last-minute addition to the group, joined just four days before the show and flawlessly delivered background vocals for the evening’s performances.
Myra Marshall of Camrose, who contributed with acoustic guitar, vocals, and percussion, shared her incredible talents—she was also a bodybuilder in 2008, adding to her impressive repertoire.
Heather Gemmell from Kimberly, BC, played multiple instruments including the dobro, harmonica, foot drums, and sang her song “North Star Burning,” which she wrote about the Kimberly ski resort. She performed as a one-woman band, leaving the audience in awe.
Amber Bauer, the hometown favourite, closed the night with “Home Sweet Home,” a poignant reminder that there truly is no place like home.
The evening was filled with emotion, laughter, and a deep connection between the performers and the audience. Bauer’s vision of empowering women in music was fully realized on stage, with each performer shining in her own unique way. “We ladies had such a great time! We were all blown away by the love and support from the crowd,” said Bauer after the show. “It’s always an honour to play for those who have supported me throughout my career. I really want to see the Allied Arts continue to flourish. The council works so hard behind the scenes to make live music happen close to home, and they deserve to have that theatre full.”
Amber Bauer with Lady Sage delivered a night to remember, full of love, laughter, and beautiful music. The audience left spellbound, eagerly awaiting what’s next for these talented women. Keep an eye on Abygale Durie, who Bauer praised as a rising star, destined for great things.
In other exciting news, Amber Bauer will be performing as part of the Duelling Pianos at Savor, taking place on November 15 at the Regional Centre. Don’t miss it!
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