As she watched show cancellations multiply, singer Virginie Cummins saw a guardian angel cross her path. In order to sow happiness in retirement homes and especially to pay it forward, businessman Jean-Marie Bourassa offered to pay the singer to perform in retirement homes.
Virginie Cummins knows the same reality as the entire artistic community. Virtually all of her scheduled concerts have been cancelled since last March. For her, the gesture of Jean-Marie Bourassa allows her to do what fascinates her, sing in front of an audience.
“I ran into Mr. Bourassa in June, says Cummins. We chatted and when he found out about my situation he offered to pay me for 10 shows at retirement homes. However, after five shows, Mr. Bourassa advised me that he wanted me to continue until December.”
The singer who will be back in the coming weeks on the show “En direct de l’univers”, hosted by France Beaudoin, explains that she has adapted her show to include staples such as Crazy by Patsy Cline, Mille après milles or again the famous song by Patrick Normand, Quand on est en amour.
“People really appreciate it, says Cummins. Without Mr. Bourassa’s generosity, this would be impossible. In order to reduce the cost of a show, I am alone and I accompany myself with a computer. So far, I have done shows in Île-Perrot, Vaudreuil-Dorion, Coteau-du-Lac and Salaberry-de-Valleyfield. To see the eyes of the elderly light up when they hear songs they know, it is truly touching.”
Catching up with him at his company, the co-founder of Bourassa-Boyer Inc and co-owner of the Summerlea Golf Club, Jean-Marie Bourassa, explains that he found it important to do his part during this time. “Since the month of March, it has been difficult for many people. I wanted to bring some comfort to the elders. As many know Virginie Cummins from performing on “En direct de l’univers”, residents are happy to have her put on a show directly in their residence.”
