In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1983. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: In March 1983, Whistler was proposed as the site for “Smokin’ in Whistler,” a series of rock concerts that would be filmed here and then broadcast on major Canadian networks. The series had originally been planned for Vancouver, but the producers had trouble getting through “the bureaucratic shuffle” and Whistler was suggested as an alternative by restauranteur Umberto Menghi. The series would have featured acts such as Loverboy, Rough Trade, Rush, April Wine, Bryan Adams, Prism, Streetheart, Chillwack, and other Canadian bands. The free performances would have taken place in Village Square with predicted audiences of 500 to 600 people.
Question: What do you think of the series of rock concerts to be filmed in Whistler Village in late April?
Ken Beatty – Village Employee – West Side Road
I think it will be great for Whistler’s publicity. Anything we can be known for other than skiing will help broaden our base so we’re not just thought of as a winter resort. This could lead to other kinds of music and other cultural events too. I think it’s a great idea.
Ken Davey – Village Employee – Squamish
It’s a really good idea. As soon as everyone hears about it they’ll all come to Whistler and bring the merchants lots of business. Sure it’ll be noisy, but that would be well worth it.
Chris Atkinson – Lift Operator – Adventures West
My feelings are mixed but that’s just because I don’t happen to like the kind of music they’ll be playing. For Whistler’s sake I think it’s great. It will publicize us all over. The noise won’t be much of a problem. There may be complaints but you get that with any project.