The Timebenders have been entertaining fans for the past 21 years, and yet, I’m ashamed to admit I had never been to one of their shows. All this changed recently with a kind invitation from the Oak Bay Beach Hotel to attend opening night in the David Foster Foundation Theatre. Founder Tom Watson has been coaxed out of retirement to join the very professional ensemble of musicians and singers, to the great delight of the group’s followers.
The theatre was full with a crowd that spanned the ages from 20s to 80s; there were several large groups celebrating special occasions, and a section reserved at the back for people who wanted to get up and dance.
Our evening began with a no-host bar in the lobby—staff is always happy to bring over draft or craft beer, or cocktails from The Snug if you like a wider selection. Dinner is served before the entertainment begins. As always, the focus is on warm, kind and friendly service, and excellent food. Owners Kevin and Shauna Walker, and team, truly embody their motto “welcome to our place”. As a former hospitality professional, I realize and appreciate the attention to detail, and the care exhibited. At every dinner theatre event, the service team is introduced—I enjoy learning more about their lives outside the hotel. It puts a very special personal touch on the proceedings.
The menus are perfectly portioned, and reflect the theme (Rock and Roll). The balsamic glazed pork tenderloin—cooked sous-vide—was the tenderest pork I’ve ever tasted, and the dessert—inspired by Elvis’ love of deep-fried peanut-butter and banana sandwiches—delicious.
With coffees in hand, we sat back for the show.
The Timebenders deliver a high-energy, well-rehearsed, and polished 75 minute tour of the history of rock and roll from the 1950s to the 1990s. From the moment they came onstage to the time they left (to resounding applause), they had the crowd engaged—laughing, clapping, singing along, dancing, and participating in stage antics. Their success comes as no surprise. We were treated to a very tight set that included a 50s medley, Ray Orbison (Pretty Woman), the Beatles (Hard Day’s Night), Aretha Franklin (Shout!), Neil Diamond (Sweet Caroline), the Beach Boys, Elvis, the Jackson 5, Abba, the Village People, Michael Jackson, the Blues Brothers and Shania Twain. Costume changes and dance routines accompanied each number. Over the years The Timebenders have been able to accommodate band member changes, while retaining their unique style. It’s part of the reason for their success. People know what to expect, and they are not disappointed. What a fun way to spend an evening celebrating, whether it be a date night, birthday, family gathering or night out with friends.
The Timebenders show continues at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel in the David Foster Foundation Theatre until March 1st, 2014. Tickets are $89 (plus tax), and may be reserved by contacting the hotel at 250.598.4556.
*A portion of every Dinner Theatre ticket sold will go to the David Foster Foundation, helping the families of children awaiting major organ transplants, as part of the hotel’s 10 year, two million dollar, commitment.
Enjoy a carefully prepared three-course dinner in the elegance of the David Foster Foundation Theatre. Our Executive Chef’s menu will highlight the bounty of both land and sea, inspired by the season, with wine suggestions from our Sommelier. Experience the return of Dinner Theatre, amongst friends and family!
Pre-Dinner Reception: 5:30-6:15pm
~ Starter ~
Cream of Mushroom Soup – with chive foam
~ Main Course ~
Balsamic Gazed Pork Tenderloin – Memphis apple cider sauce and seasonal vegetables
~ Dessert ~
Elvis Peanut Butter and Banana SandwichExperience the return of Dinner Theatre at its finest, amongst friends and family!
For more photos of the Timebenders, check out Photography Elf’s set from a New Year’s Eve dance at the Mary Winspear.
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