Riverview’s newly appointed town crier is preparing to take her inspiring words to the world stage.
Summer Gallant, who was recently named Riverview’s town crier, has been selected to compete at the World Town Crier Competition in Chester, England, this September.
Gallant earned one of 25 spots in the competition after submitting a video audition and application, and underwent a competitive selection process.
“It’s kind of crazy to think that I’m going across the pond to compete as the town crier, especially when I’m so new in the role,” said Gallant.
The competition runs from September 21 to 26 and will bring together town criers from around the world. Competitors are expected from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany and Australia, among other countries.
Gallant will be the only participant from New Brunswick. Other Canadian competitors are expected from Nova Scotia and Ontario.
A lifelong Riverview resident, Gallant said she was inspired to apply for the volunteer role after seeing a call for candidates on Facebook.
“I’ve always loved being involved in the community,” she said.
Gallant has a background in community theatre dating back to middle school and said the position combines her love of performance with community involvement.
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Despite her theatre experience, Gallant said the Chester event will be one of the first competitions she has ever entered.
“I was not a sports kid, and theatre doesn’t really have competitions in that sense,” she said. “This would be one of the first competitions in my life.”
While organizers are covering six nights of accommodation in Chester, travel costs and other expenses remain Gallant’s responsibility.
The host city secured funding through an Airbnb tourism initiative, helping offset some costs for participants, but flights, meals and additional expenses still add up.
To help make the trip possible, Gallant has launched a GoFundMe campaign.
Residents interested in supporting Gallant’s trip can contribute as she prepares to represent Riverview and New Brunswick on the international stage.
The competition itself appears to be more about tradition and pride than prize money.
“I honestly think it’s bragging rights,” Gallant said with a laugh. “A lot of the people who are town criers are just very passionate about it, about the history behind it and the theatrics behind it. It’s a really close-knit community,” Gallant expressed.
