Reviews

JULY 2001 - Article from Interval House Newsletter
By Tara Lepp

Interval House is in perfect harmony with LadyFest, a local music festival.

LadyFest is one of Toronto’s truly remarkable events. Thanks to organizers Shannon Mitchell and Cheryl Steele from the Riot Girl Band “The Plath”, LadyFest was a benefit concert for Interval House.

LadyFest brings together female musicians and artists from the local community to educate people about abuse and rape. On April 12, 2001, LadyFest was held at the 360 on Queen Street West in downtown Toronto, and raised almost $500 for the shelter.

Shannon from the band understands the tremendous challenges faced by women and children living in a shelter. As a child, Shannon stayed at a shelter with her mom, and the minute she walked through our door at Interval House, she was reminded of that time in her own life.

Shannon and Cheryl found inspiration in LadyFest. There were 150 people that attended, 6 bands, 3 spoken word artists, local artists, and a few independent magazine writers. Their enthusiasm for organizing the second LadyFest in Toronto next year is infectious. “It will be bigger, and we hope to broaden the scope by holding a three-day festival, and including workshops for women as a part of LadyFest”.

Shannon, Cheryl and the rest of the musicians and artists who made LadyFest a reality embody the spirit and the power of a community that pulls together to create magic. For the strength of their voices and the energy of their convictions, the staff and residents at Interval House are truly thankful.