Western Fair Bud Light Music Garden

AN EVENING WITH
CHALK CIRCLE

Forty Years of The Great Lake & Mending Wall

Four decades after releasing two of Canada's most influential alternative rock albums, Chalk Circle is inviting audiences to experience the music—and the stories behind it.

Celebrating the 40th anniversaries of The Great Lake (1986) and Mending Wall (1987), the performance revisits the two Gold-certified albums that established Chalk Circle as one of Canada's defining alternative rock bands. Audiences can expect beloved favourites including "April Fool," "This Mourning," "Me, Myself and I," and "20th Century Boy," alongside deeper album cuts, personal reflections and the stories behind the music.

Formed in 1983 by Chris Tait, Brad Hopkins and Derrick Murphy, Chalk Circle added Tad Winklarz and quickly became one of Canada's premier live acts. Their success led to Gold-certified albums, national headline tours, and performances alongside Rush, Crowded House and Tears for Fears. Their music reached audiences throughout Europe and Japan, and the band also represented Canadian music internationally with a performance at the Festival of Political Songs in East Berlin.

Following acclaimed reunion performances beginning in 2006 and a celebrated appearance at the JUNO Awards' 40th Anniversary in 2011, Chalk Circle rediscovered its connection with audiences. Since then, the band has continued to perform select concerts across Canada, sharing stages with artists including Midge Ure, Rough Trade, Finger Eleven, The Box, The Odds, and 54-40, while longtime friend and collaborator Jason Sniderman became a permanent member of the live lineup.

The anniversary performances celebrate not only the music itself but also the stories behind its creation—the songwriting, the recording sessions, the tours, and the experiences that helped define one of Canada's most respected alternative rock bands.

Fans can also look ahead to the band's future. Chalk Circle is working on reimagined versions of fan favourites, along with new material, marking an exciting new chapter in a career that continues to evolve.

"These songs have taken on new meaning over the years," says Chris Tait. "We're excited to share not only the music, but the stories behind it with the people who've supported us throughout the journey."

Additional announcements will be released in the coming weeks

All music is included
with Fair admission.

From $15. Kids 10 & under FREE. Adults 65+ FREE.