PHOTOS: Artpark drive-in series revisits Tragically Hip

The Tragically Hip is a beloved Canadian band that, in any given summer, could’ve performed for a full month at Artpark and found the venue sold-out each night.

Unfortunately, that scenario is impossible in 2020.

It was announced in May of 2016 that Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie had been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. In response, the band decided it would do one final run of 15 dates across Canada.

The “National Celebration” was the final show of the Tragically Hip’s “Man Machine Poem Tour,” recorded Aug. 20, 2016, at the K-Rock Centre in the band’s hometown of Kingston, Ontario. The masterful and memorable event was recorded live for a special titled “The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration.” The program contained all 30 songs from the night’s setlist. It captured an unparalleled, nation-linking occasion.

Originally aired live by CBC across all platforms, the concert was experienced by an estimated one-third of Canadians – among the biggest events in the country’s broadcast history.

Artpark & Company presented a very special screening of “The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration” on Aug. 11 – an evening that traditionally would’ve welcomed a national act to the amphitheater stage for a “Tuesdays in the Park” live concert event.

With crowd limitations due to the coronavirus pandemic, Artpark & Company started a drive-in movie series. Music-centered films are screened on Tuesday nights, with more popular, family-oriented movies shown on Thursday evenings.

These Lewiston events are intended to be a safe alternative to large gatherings. Two LED screens are positioned in parking lot D, the large lot nearest the South Fourth Street entrance. One screen is set in the “Painted Parking Lot” for VIP and walk-in patrons.

Artpark is spacing parked vehicles 6 feet apart. Patrons are permitted to sit outside of their vehicles, but must provide their own seating. All patrons must wear a face mask whenever they are not seated.

Demand was so high for “The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration” that Artpark added a second screening for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 18. For more information, visit www.artpark.net.

Photos by K&D Action Photo & Aerial Imaging