John Mann is a JUNO award winning songwriter, musician and revered actor of stage and screen. For more than 25 years has fronted the sensational Spirit of the West.
Spirit Unforgettable the official documentary film.
A Personal Statement From John Mann - Monday September 8th, 2014
Dear Friends and Colleagues, I would like to let you know that I have been diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s Disease. I know this will come as a shock to many of you. It wasn’t for me. I’ve had my fears and suspicions, but I was remaining hopeful that there was some other cause for the problems I was experiencing. Hearing the news has been a difficult blow. My family and I have taken some time to try and absorb the ramifications as we struggle to come to terms with the changes that have occurred and are yet to come. But I don’t want to spend any more energy trying to hide my symptoms. I don’t want to feel embarrassed. I want to accept what has happened and live. I will continue to make music and I will continue to do shows.I need to use an iPad now to help with the lyrics and for my solo shows, either Al Rodger or Tobin Frank will accompany and support me with their diverse and abundance of talents. My Spirit of the West band mates have circled me with care and we will forge ahead as we’ve been doing the last 30 sum odd years with humour and friendship, playing our hearts out. I will continue to write and tour, because this is what I do and what I love. Thanks for being there, John
John Mann's latest work as a solo artist is called "The Waiting Room”
John Mann - The Waiting Room
Released 2014 “The Waiting Room’ is a powerful testament to the journey John Mann took while he was sick with Cancer in 2009 through 2011. For several months John was bedridden in the hospital and confronted by the challenge of his life and for his life. John’s lyrical approach on the Waiting Room captures his experience and creates a natural script and visual journey taking the listener to the powerful realization that everyone knows someone touched by Cancer. Each song delivers heartfelt tears and uplifting laughter as he reveals the most vulnerable moments of recovery from this life threatening disease.
‘The Waiting Room’ is a multifaceted project John Mann performed as a solo musician as well as developing into a stage production for theatre.
The Waiting Room - Arts Club Play A TRUE-LIFE MUSICAL ABOUT PATIENCE AND RECOVERY
A moving story about family, healing, and hope, The Waiting Room is the highly anticipated collaboration between Spirit of the West’s John Mann and acclaimed Canadian playwright Morris Panych. Drawn from Mann’s own experience and his solo album of the same name, this musical follows “J” as he navigates life before and after diagnosis. It’s a story told with grace, honesty, and a sharp sense of humour, with a score that adds a layer of poignant commentary and thoughtful observation.
