By Nigel Maxwell

Fred Penner welcomes fans of all ages

Aug 2, 2015 | 3:34 PM

Before iPods and hand-held video game systems, Fred Penner was the source of entertainment for many children.

Those children who have become parents themselves still know all the words to songs like ‘The Cat Came Back,’ ‘There was an Old Lady,’ and ‘Sandwiches’.

Penner was among the headliners Sunday night at the Borealis Music Festival in Prince Albert.  He said he enjoys looking out at the crowds and seeing fans of all ages.

“The adults who grew up with me are really keen to come back and find some of that lost youthful exuberance that is hiding away somewhere,” he said. 

Penner said he gets a kick out of seeing the old ‘Fred Heads’ sing along to every chorus.

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“That’s always been part of the work: engaging with the audience and having them participate with me,” said Penner.

Penner said people will hear a lot of their favourites Sunday night, but they will also get to hear some new songs that they will get the chance to participate in.

Penner has been a touring artist for over 40 years. When asked what keeps him going, he said he still loves to play for audiences, and is happy to do so for a long time if there is still a demand for it. 

“Being in a position of connecting with human beings in a positive, energized way. I’m pretty critical of the way the world is going and entertainment needs to be a part of your life,” said Penner.

He said his songs are about life, optimism, love, family, communication and all things that are important to him as a dad.

Borealis organizers very happy with turnout

Upwards of 400 to 500 people have come through the gates each night this week.

“The numbers are higher than we expected them to be and everyone is having a great time,” said Organizer Abraham Lancaster.

In terms of security issues, Lancaster said there have been none, and everyone is just having a really great time.

“There has been a dire need for an event like this in this community and we are finally realizing that we are capable of doing this,” said Lancaster.

Lancaster said the festival will return next year.

‘It’s coming back; it’s coming back strong.”

nmaxwell@panow.com

Follow on Twitter: @nigelmaxwell