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Dal Richards 85th Birthday

January 5, 2003

By Catherine Barr

AT 85 years young, Dal Richards is still as popular as ever. The debonaire band leader and Order of Canada recipient celebrated his birthday on January 5 at Massey Theatre as crowds of well-wishers, fans and friends came out to see a star-studded performance by Dal and his famous pals. A gigantic 12' high cake, special surprise speeches and a birthday serenade by Jim Pattison himself highlighted a truly memorable afternoon. Proceeds from the sold-out show will go to support the theatre restoration project.
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For 67 consecutive years, Dal Richards has welcomed the New Year at the Pan Pacific. He received a backstage birthday cuddle from performer Ruth Nichol (left) and wife Miriam before the show.
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Trumpeter Ross Gregory (left) has been playing with Dal for close to 15 years now along with saxophonist Saul Berson.
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Benny Goodman songs have undoubtedly been on the program more than once for clarinet players Ross Taggart (left) and Bill Abbott.
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as below
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She's as stunningly beautiful as ever. Order of Canada recipient and lifelong friend Juliette has known Dal for 62 years.
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He's the epitome of cool. Blues man Jim Byrnes paid his musical tribute to the birthday boy himself.
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Singer Jennifer Hayes (left), joined Vancouver Civic Theatres commissioner and West Van resident Art Jones and Tourism Vancouver president Rick Antonson.
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Drummer Don Reid first started playing with Dal's band when he was only 18 years old. After 20+ years in New York, he's back to celebrate.
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Just call them Dal's gals. Margaret Mead (left), Dorothy Wakeling, Kay Miller andd Lydia Snider are big fans.
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John and Pat Rose, who celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2002, went to a Dal Richards swing dance for their very first date.
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West Van's Graeme and Merlyn Smith were happy to be there to partake in the birthday celebrations.
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West Van billionaire businessman Jim Pattison played "Happy Birthday" on his trumpet during the show's finale.

 

 

 
     
catherine barr