An anniversary night should hold the promise of fireworks! Often a girl’s expectations are dashed - at other times ... far exceeded.
Tonight is our 35th. I have promised her fireworks - and fireworks I shall deliver! Luckily it also happens to be the 100th anniversary of the International Fireworks Competition - held for the 17th time at the base of a huge cataract outside of Quebec City.
The natural amphitheater affords fantastic acoustics for the team’s chosen music - in this case a mix from Strauss to Pink Floyd. A suspension bridge passes over the top of the falls offering multiple places from which to shoot off, or even drop the fireworks. Each country in the competition has one night to score - and tonight is Italy’s effort - entitled “Notte Di Fuoco” (Fire's Night)
We put down a hotel blanket on the grass and pull out our picnic and wine. Others nearby are mostly locals attracted by the incredible weather - Mexico’s team was rained on last week. Mick and Louise provide that local contact that is the real highlight of any travel. He, from Port-a-Prince, and she a teacher, proved to be as fun as the fireworks to follow. An instant bond.
The dark brings a projection show using the falls to tell the legend of La Dame Blanche, who jumped off in her wedding dress when her lover did not come home from the war. Nearly 300 feet of whitewater for a screen produces a ghostly apparition to tell her sad tale. No anniversaries for her.
All rise for the Italian National Anthem. (Have you heard it? No disrespect - but no wonder they can’t win any wars.) Then it begins. The music rocks, rockets burst, bombs explode and everyone applauds each of the 10 acts.
It ends with the CanCan - a bribe to the local judges? But its great music for pyrotechnic interpretation - fiery candles rising like dancer’s legs and ruffles of starbursts showing lifted skirts. I have no idea how the other countries scored, but I vote for Italy. I caught it on my camera: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgofcLMTbEs
As for Jean - these fireworks will have to do. She is so spoiled already.
As for Jean - these fireworks will have to do. She is so spoiled already.
- Rockets Red Rod
