Backstage at the Vinyl Cafe

“I will never forget that day.”We have something very special for you this week. From one of the most-requested Vinyl Cafe episodes, this is Stuart’s re-telling of the life story of holocaust survivor (and my husband’s Zaidie) David Kilberg.This episode features music by the Manitoba band Finjan, from the album “Dancing on Water”. 

“How can you deny an old man his dying wish?”This week’s episode is all about the powerful pull of home. We start with a story about Dave’s neighbours Eugene and Maria and their longing for their hometown of Rendi. And in our second story, an event in Dave’s Big Narrows brings back a cascade of memories. 

“It was one of those moments that make you wonder if your life is cursed.”In this week’s episode, two stories of a mystical flavour, with mysterious encounters for both Stephanie and Dave.

“How was Dave supposed to know the Madden kids were all lactose intolerant.”Today on the pod, two stories where Dave bites off more than he can chew. In the first he babysits a cell phone that is left in the store; in the second he attempts to babysit some neighbourhood kids, with hilarious consequences.

Our Thanksgiving tradition: The Arthur Awards! Two more of our favourite Vinyl Cafe Arthur Awards.

“The day Annie began violin lessons was the most exciting day of her life."This week’s episode is all about music. It was such an integral part of both the radio show and the touring show. We have two music stories for you today. The first story is about the trials and tribulations of music lessons. In the second, a departed friend is celebrated in song. You’ll even briefly hear Stuart’s dulcet tones as he sings along! For more information about the sound sculpture Forty-Part Motet see https://www.gallery.ca/whats-on/exhibitions-and-galleries/janet-cardiff-forty-part-motet-2

“He was a great dog.”Today on the podcast, two stories about dogs – one of my favourite subjects! The first is about Dave’s two dogs: Scout and, of course, Arthur. The second is a listener story about a remarkably faithful friend. 

“Carl didn’t want to retire.”Today on the podcast, two stories about embracing change. Dave’s neighbour Carl Lowbeer (and his wife Gerda) get to grips with a major change in their lives: retirement! And Stephanie starts her new life at university.

“I made predictions. They are all coming true.”This week, we’re talking about kids and independence. In our story, Sam gets guidance from an unexpected source: a fortune teller named Madame Nina. And we have a very special script: about trust, and hope, and goodness.