Concert for a Summer's Eve: A Farewell to Mr Newns

Concert for a Summer’s Eve: A Farewell to Mr Newns

2 June 2025Ella W, Mack ‘25

The month of May marks the beginning of the end and a series of “lasts” for our departing Grads and staff members. One fabulous event that May holds for our Arts program is Concert for A Summer’s Eve (CFASE), a night that showcases the talented performing arts students and ends the year on a high note! Advanced Rock Band member, Stella P, Alex ‘25, says: “CFASE is one of my favourite moments of the year because of the wonderful weather, wonderful performers and wonderful people”.

This year, I had the honour of being the MC for the concert, which means I have had the opportunity to watch the performers backstage as they work hard to deliver an amazing show in tech and dress rehearsals. The show consists of performances from our provincially and nationally recognized Instrumental and Vocal ensembles, as well as some very talented soloists.

Something special this year about CFASE is what it represents. Mr Newns, Head of Music, founded the Monday Morning Music Society (MMMS) in 1994, which allows differently abled children and adults the opportunity to partake in a musical therapy program. The MMM Society has raised over $100,000 in funding that helps support students across the Cowichan Valley. Given this is Mr Newns’ final show for Brentwood, both performances, May 29 and May 30, were dedicated to him, and the proceeds will be donated to the MMMS.

Soloist Sophie A, Alexandra ‘25, states: “I am grateful for Mr Newns’ guidance these past few years in the performing arts program. What he has done for the MMM Society and the Brentwood Arts is unmatched, and we will miss him and his talented self more than he will ever know”.

I was lucky enough to watch the performance dedicated to Mr Newns, put on by Ms Staples, Head of Dance, and part of the Senior Musical Ensemble. Mr Newns’ favourite show is Beauty and the Beast, and at the end of CFASE, the troupe performed a medley of the top hits from the soundtrack. From the costumes to the choreography, it is the cherry on top to end the Mr Newns Era.

Thank you, Mr Newns, for your tremendous contribution to the Brentwood Arts. Your legacy of dedication and talent, as well as your effort to foster an inclusive, competitive environment, will live on through the students you have impacted.

See you at the next curtain call!

Ella W, Mack ‘25

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