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Ruby Waters in Winnipeg

On October 9th, the historic Burton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg became the backdrop for an unforgettable evening of live music, headlined by the rising star Ruby Waters. The eclectic lineup also featured opener Slim Crusty from Australia, alongside the soulful and captivating Indigenous artist Tia Wood, creating an evening that left the audience buzzing with excitement. Each artist brought their unique sound and personality to the stage, making the night a celebration of raw talent, diverse influences, and powerful storytelling.

Slim Crusty

Kicking off the show, Slim Crusty, a rock-infused artist hailing from Australia, brought a wild energy to the stage. With his gritty vocals and raw guitar riffs, he instantly injected a rebellious, carefree vibe into the theatre. Slim Crusty’s performance was unapologetically bold, embodying a sound that mixes elements of punk, grunge, and classic rock. His stage presence was magnetic, radiating a confidence that drew the crowd in from the moment he started. Slim Crusty is the kind of performer who lives for the stage—there was a certain spontaneity in his set that kept the audience on their toes, unsure of what to expect next. Whether it was a fiery guitar solo or a sudden shift in tempo, his performance was a rollercoaster of energy, unpredictability, and attitude.

 

Despite the stark contrast to the other artists on bill, Slim Crusty managed to hold the audience’s attention in his own distinct way. His charisma was undeniable, and his ability to deliver punchy, no-holds-barred performances was impressive. There was a sense of freedom in his music, a feeling that anything could happen, which left the audience thoroughly entertained. As he wrapped up his set, the theatre buzzed with excitement, setting the stage perfectly for the main event.

Tia Wood

Following Slim Crusty,  Tia Wood came to the stage and immediately captivated the audience. Her entrance on stage was understated yet commanding, allowing her connection with the crowd to grow organically. As an Indigenous artist, Tia Wood blends traditional sounds with contemporary elements, creating a soundscape that is both soulful and modern. Her performance was rich with authenticity, weaving in cultural influences while addressing themes of identity, heritage, and personal empowerment.


Tia’s voice had a haunting, ethereal quality that echoed through the theatre, touching on emotions that resonated deeply with the crowd. It was clear that her music transcends genres, blending folk, soul, and a touch of indie flair. Throughout her set, she drew the audience into her world, encouraging listeners to reflect on the stories and histories that shaped her artistry. Between songs, she spoke to the crowd with humility and grace, offering insights into her journey as a musician and the significance of representing her culture on such a stage.


The audience responded with enthusiasm, embracing her artistry with heartfelt applause and cheers. By the time she left the stage, Tia Wood had set the tone for the evening—one rooted in emotional connection, vulnerability, and strength. Her performance was more than just music; it was a celebration of the richness of Indigenous voices in contemporary spaces.

Ruby Waters

When Ruby Waters finally took the stage, the anticipation in the room reached its peak. Known for her unique fusion of indie, folk, blues, and alternative influences, Ruby Waters has carved out a space for herself as one of Canada’s most exciting new artists. Her presence was instantly captivating, and the crowd greeted her with loud cheers and applause. From the moment she began performing, it was clear that Ruby has an undeniable command of the stage.

 

Her voice, raspy and soulful, filled the Burton Cummings Theatre with a warmth and richness that immediately drew the audience in. There’s a rawness to Ruby’s vocal delivery that makes her performances feel deeply personal, almost as if each lyric is an intimate confession. The emotional depth she brings to her music was palpable, and the audience seemed entranced by her authenticity.

 

Ruby Waters’ performance was a masterclass in balancing intensity with vulnerability. She had moments where she poured every ounce of emotion into her delivery and others where she pulled back, creating a sense of intimacy between herself and the crowd. It’s this dynamic that makes her such a compelling performer—she knows exactly when to push the energy to its peak and when to let it simmer, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

 

One of the standout aspects of Ruby’s set was her ability to seamlessly shift between genres, blending bluesy undertones with alternative rock energy and indie-folk warmth. This genre fluidity is part of what makes her music so engaging; there’s always a surprise element, yet it feels cohesive. Her band, tight and polished, perfectly complemented her performance, giving her the sonic space to shine while adding their own layer of energy to the set.

 

The production value of Ruby Waters’ performance was another key element that elevated the experience. The lighting design was simple yet effective, with moody hues and soft glows that matched the emotional tone of each song. During more introspective moments, the stage was bathed in soft blues and purples, creating an intimate atmosphere. In contrast, during the high-energy portions of the set, the lights burst into vibrant reds and yellows, reflecting the intensity of the music.

 

As the night drew to a close, it was clear that Ruby Waters had left an indelible mark on the audience. Her performance was a testament to her incredible talent, emotional depth, and ability to captivate a room with ease. The combination of her genre-blending music, heartfelt delivery, and connection with the crowd made for an unforgettable experience.

Tia Wood and Slim Crusty, both bringing their distinct styles and energy, were the perfect openers, each adding their unique touch to the evening. Together, the three artists created a diverse and engaging lineup that showcased the beauty of musical variety, leaving the audience with a night of memories to cherish.

 

For those in attendance, Ruby Waters’ performance at the Burton Cummings Theatre was more than just a concert—it was an experience, a journey through emotion, energy, and connection. As her star continues to rise, it’s clear that Ruby Waters is an artist to watch, and her Winnipeg performance only solidified her place as one of the most exciting voices in the music scene today.

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