More Than ‘Grand Theatre’
Heather Giffen, server and student

Dressed in my black server’s uniform and wearing a pirate’s eye patch, I marched up the stairs to The Grand Theatre’s Poster Lounge. Wearing an eye patch you ask? Well, as it turns out, on this particular evening I was serving at an event, hosted by The Grand Theatre, and catered by Garlic’s of London. It was the opening night of The Pirates of Penzance, Gilbert and Sullivan’s classic musical and this season’s High School Production. As a member of the Garlic’s of London team, I was asked to assist with the catering. After some discussion, we (the servers) had decided to dress in keeping with the theme of the play.

Perhaps you haven’t realized that The Grand Theatre often has events like these. In fact, The Grand Theatre has considerably more to offer than the outstanding live theatre you will find gracing either of their two stages throughout their October to May season. Due to the wide variety of spaces within their facility, The Grand Theatre is capable of holding more than one event at the same time. Other than the MainStage Theatre, there is also the 150 seat McManus Studio Theatre. The McManus is mainly used for performances and is an affordable venue for local theatre groups, but also hosts business meetings and other corporate events. The Grand’s most scenic venue is The Poster Lounge that overlooks Richmond Street from the third floor. The Poster Lounge can accommodate anywhere from 70 - 200 people depending on the type of function. Cocktail parties, business meetings, wedding receptions and sit down meals are among the many types of events held in this versatile space.

Duane Woods has worked in different aspects of the theatre business for over 30 years, and as The Grand Theatre’s Business Services Manager, he is responsible for coordinating the various rentals of the main stage, studio and lounge. Duane has worked with Garlic’s of London ever since he started his position at The Grand Theatre just over a year and a half ago. This connection started when Emma Pratt, our Guest Relations Manager, contacted Duane about a catering event.

Since then, the two have partnered together for many events - not just because we are neighbours, but because we love working together for the purpose of creating memorable moments for those who walk through each of our doors.

Frequently during my work week, I have the pleasure of chatting with Duane when he stops by the restaurant to unwind or refuel. Duane visits us at Garlic’s of London because “It is a great place to relax after work while enjoying the music and the company of the genuine, friendly, open, and positive staff.” I know that all of us here at Garlic’s of London look forward to Duane’s visits and to doing more business with him and The Grand Theatre in the years to come.

The Grand Theatre is located at 471 Richmond Street in London, Ontario and boasts 839 seats in its MainStage Theatre and is one of the most beautiful theatres in the country. For facility rentals, Duane can be reached at dwoods@grandtheatre.com

EVENTS NEARBY - DECEMBER 2008

• until Dec.24 - A Christmas Carol, The Grand Theatre
• Dec. 1 - Kenny Rogers. John Labatt Centre
• Dec. 5 - Bowser & Blue, Centennial Hall
• Dec. 6/7 - John McDermott with Orchestra London, Centennial Hall
• Dec. 8 - Rise Against, John Labatt Centre
• Dec. 8 - A Festival of Carols, The Salvation Army, Centennial Hall
• Dec. 12 - Christmas with Holly Cole, Centennial Hall
• Dec. 13 - Messiah – Handel, Fanshawe Chorus, London, Centennial Hall
• Dec. 15 - Oasis, John Labatt Centre
• Dec. 15/16 - Stuart Mclean, Centennial Hall
• Dec.17 - Handel’s Messiah, St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Dec. 19/20 - Red Hot Weekends: Rockin’ Christmas 2008, Centennial Hall
• Dec. 28 - Super Dogs, John Labatt Centre
• Dec. 28 - Stars of Pop Tribute, Centennial Hall

History, Geography and Family Values
Jill Blakeney, Garlic’s of London Office Manager and mother

I recently met Michael Buck for the first time. As I sat with him three common threads were entwined throughout our conversation...history, geography and family values. We spoke of his studies in university, where he majored in history and geography. We discussed his love of triathlons, having travelled extensively training, competing and convening at events...geography once again. Conversation turned to family life and values, as we both have young children... the importance of finding balance between work and family life, responsible parenting and maintaining traditions. He also spoke freely of his personal history that led him to where he is now. But mainly, we talked about wine.

Michael is an independent wine agent, working primarily with Lifford Wine Agency; but also distributing wines from other independent wineries. He began his business in 1991 in the Toronto area, working for Lifford Wine Agency when home from his travels as a triathlete. In 1993, he moved to London and although he continued distributing Lifford’s wines to select local restaurants, he also pursued his interest in athletics. The London market was slow to accept the concept of purchasing consignment wines by the case, but has come to recognise this as a sound way of accessing quality unique wines to serve to their guests. Over time he widened his selection of wines to include those from other wineries such as Cave Spring Cellars and Henry of Pelham; as well as representing The Vine’s portfolio of wines. It has been since 1999, after firmly establishing himself as a knowledgeable and respected wine devotee to London restauranteurs, that he dedicated himself solely to his wine business. Mike now assembles complete wine lists for several local venues, while other restaurants use his wines to supplement their own selection. He also sells wines to private purchasers who appreciate being able to have fine wines delivered to their door, as opposed to having to make their selections at local wine retailers. Over the past two years Garlic’s of London has worked closely with Michael; now offering both imported and Canadian wines from many of his family estate wineries including Cave Spring Cellars, Lailey Vineyards and Henry of Pelham. Over half the wines currently selected for the Garlic’s of London wine list come to us through Michael Buck.

The question remains “Where do history, geography and family values fit in to Michael’s occupation as an independent wine agent?” On the surface, it may not be obvious, but these three things are key elements in producing the kind of wine Mike represents. The big wine corporations always need to consider the bottom line...how much profit they can generate for their shareholders. The smaller, family estate wineries - the ones Mike deals with - have passed their business down from generation to generation. Traditions, sense of place and the fact that family have been growing on the same piece of land for many years are all factors in their winemaking. Where the grapes are grown, how the wine is produced and personal relationships are all major factors in the vision of their business. They base their decisions on the values of their predecessors - trying to do the right thing for the land, the grapes and ultimately the wine. It is clear that history, geography and family values are integral parts of producing the types of wines that Michael offers.

Two last things come to mind when I think of Michael Buck - and these words could have also began this article - passion and diligence. Passion for his business, his interest in triathlons and his family, and diligence in that he persevered and has shown London wine enthusiasts the value of the services he provides and the wineries he represents. But foremost is the passion...especially when it comes to wine...and history...and geography... and family values.

Michael can be reached by e-mail at mikebuck@rogers.com