2025 SINGER-SONGWRITER RETREAT
In August of 2025, supported by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, the Badlands Amphitheatre brought together female singer/songwriters to learn, create, and connect in a supportive setting at the Badlands Amphitheatre. The goal was simple: give artists space to grow their skills, meet new collaborators, and feel encouraged in their work.
Our first retreat welcomed artists from a range of ages, backgrounds, and career stages. Participants spent the weekend writing, sharing songs, learning from mentors, and gaining tools to support their artistic paths. Mentors included Shakura S’Aida, Celeigh Cardinal, Kate Stevens, Catherine Harrison, Stephanie Hutchinson, and Simone Willmann.
Sessions focused on creativity, practical skills, and open conversations about the challenges women face in the music world. Evening showcases allowed artists to share their work with new audiences, and interviews throughout the retreat helped us understand what support rural female singer/songwriters need most.
Why This Matters
Female singer/songwriters in rural Alberta often have limited access to mentorship, professional networks, and performance opportunities. Distance from larger centres can make it harder to grow a career and reach new listeners. This retreat helps reduce those barriers and gives artists a place to learn, connect, and be heard.
OUR MENTORS
SHAKURA S'AIDA
For singer and songwriter, Shakura S’Aida, her music is all about community.
The 2024 recipient of the prestigious SOCAN Foundation’s “Her Music” Award stays committed to connecting community through music with concert tours, curated workshops-including her “Authentic Stage Workshop” and concert programming.
S’Aida says,”Music is a great connector, I use it to uplift and remind people that they’re not alone; that we’re all part of the same great community.”
CELEIGH CARDINAL
Celeigh Cardinal is a JUNO-winning Indigenous singer-songwriter whose rich, soulful voice has earned her national acclaim.
Her latest album Boundless Possibilities garnered 2025 WCMA nominations for Indigenous Artist and Roots Album of the Year, following multiple CFMA wins and JUNO nods.
Her music explores grief, hope, and powerful self-reclamation.
KATE STEVENS
One of Western Canada’s finest vocalists and songwriters, Kate Stevens uses her songs to be unapologetic and her best self.
Her signature style of folk merges with her love of early R&B, mixed with Kate’s storytelling abilities and sultry voice.
Her songs are capable of single-handedly transporting listeners to the moment they first make eye contact with a potential significant other. Her latest single, “New Walk Home,” is a glittery new roots classic. Recorded and produced by Brock Geiger at Studio B in Calgary, this is a standout track from Stevens. “New Walk Home” marks a sonic transition and a bold new sound.
DONATE TO THE BADLANDS AMP
You Make It Happen
Your support brings events like this to life. T
You can ensure the future of nonprofit arts and culture in the Canadian Badlands
As a registered charity, all donations over $20 receive a tax receipt.
Ways to Give:
🖥️ Online: BadlandsAmp.com/donate
By E-transfer to donate at BadlandsAmp.com
📞 By Phone: 403-823-2001
✉️ By Mail: Box 457, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0
