In light of the recent tragic fires that affected Fort McMurray, Edmontonians jumped into action to aid in every possible way they could: accepting evacuees, providing well-needed shelter and services, and volunteering their time and talents to fundraise to ease the burden of those in a vulnerable situation.

Long time McCauley resident, the multi-talented Darcia Parada (Artistic Director and Founder of Mercury Opera), and her husband Boris Derow organized a benefit concert/fundraiser to benefit our neighbours to the north.

This is not the first time Darcia has supported her fellow Albertans. She quickly gathered up talent and did a benefit when our neighbours in Calgary went through a disastrous flood in 2013.

Utilizing her skills, talent, and connections, Darcia organizes events that are full of culture and put the fun in fundraising! She works diligently to make sure the event is a top notch performance with all profits going to relief efforts.

Guests at “Great Ballroom of Fire” on May 15 at the Chateau Lacombe were treated to a reasonable admission fee to see superb acts donating their talents. Performers included Samba Edmonton, the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers, and Joe Piccolo and Swing the Cat. Radio personality Ryan Jespersen did Master of Ceremony duties.

We often see in the media the exceptional stories of those who “jump into action” regardless of the huge effort involved. These, to me, are “unsung heroes” (and there was a lot of singing and dancing that night). Everyone involved, especially Darcia Parada, are not only pillars of the community but gifts to the world!