Is there any summer activity that is more quintessentially Canadian than canoeing? In 1978, Outdoorsman Bill Mason set out to film a three-part instructional series on canoeing. Instead, he ended up with a wonderful short documentary that follows Mason and his family as they go canoe camping in the wilderness. Song of the Paddle gives viewers an appreciation for the art of canoeing while watching a small group experience the sheer joy and beauty of Nature. Along the way, the Masons experience countless adventures and some breathtaking scenery, including Indian rock carvings at Lake Superior. The film won three Etrogs (the Canadian film awards precursor to the Genies) in the non-feature film category for direction, cinematography and sound editing.
Song of the Paddle; July 12; 3 pm. Redpath Museum auditorium; 859 Sherbrooke St. West. Admission is free with a contribution to the Museum.