In the past you could almost always bank on your coldest day of the year being in February.

 This year it's anybody's guess.

 But the Chester Drama Society plans to be prepared just the same.

 The Chester Drama Society, host of the 12th annual Coldest Day of the Year event, is inviting the public to come to the Fo'c'sle Pub (Pleasant Street entrance) on February 11 from 3 p.m. to closing time for an evening of live entertainment, raffles, silent auction, 50-50 draws and more, all in benefit of the Chester Municipal Heritage Society and the drama society.

 "It doesn't matter how cold it's going to be outside because it will be the hottest day of the year inside," said volunteer and organizer Barry Redmond.

 The event is about overcoming those winter blahs, it's about getting local talent together with an appreciative audience, it's about the community getting together to raise funds for a good cause.

 In the past as many as 75 volunteers have worked together to put on this event.

 This year musical performances include The Market Boys; Morgan Davis; John Cole Porter of the KickAssMatics (with Cynthia Myers); Andy and Ariana; Swingology; comedienne Mrs. Muggins; classical whistler Brian Caunt; Studio Singers; The Parsons Brothers; the house band of Darren Arsenault, George Barkhouse and Jordi Comstock; Kevin Koloff; Nick Jeffrey; and Stewart Frank.

 "We've decided to set things up a little differently this year," Mr. Redmond said. "The early music will be a little more easy-listening. Then after the break [around 7:20 to 7:45 p.m.] the mood will change. We have a great lineup."

 This year, included with the music scheduled will be performances from Mrs. Muggins, a stand-up act inspired by a character from the drama society's Christmas play. There will also be the classical whistling of Mr. Caunt.

 "Amazing," said volunteer and organizer Erin Gore.

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 Last year's Coldest Day brought in more than $5,000, and filled the tavern from 3 p.m. until sometime after midnight.

 For more information about the Coldest Day of the Year contact Erin Gore at 275-5864 or at gore275@eastlink.ca.

posted on 02/01/12