Long Shen Dao, a Beijing based band set to play this weekend’s Calgary International Reggaefest at Shaw Millennium Park, is not allowing the theft of nearly $20,000 worth of personal items and equipment hinder their trip across Canada.
A bass guitar was stolen from the band during a break-in in Toronto and, days later, thieves entered the group’s van in Montreal and stole a number of items including instruments.
Canada’s music community came through for Long Shen Dao, as an artist in Toronto offered to loan instruments for the remainder of the band’s Canadian tour.
Despite the hiccups, the members of Long Shen Dao are thrilled to be in Calgary.
“They are so excited to be here because they know the area is such a big festival just specifically for reggae, like a music show. so they are really expecting to see more musicians in this field,” said the band through a translator on Friday afternoon.”
“They think Canadians are very friendly, very friendly and easy. It’s a very friendly country.”
The band will take to the stage of the Calgary International Reggaefest on Saturday afternoon. Reggaefest runs from August 14 - 16.
