Cat's Eye: Dal Richards turns 95 years young

Cat Barr, Jan. 17.

Catherine Barr

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Back in 1918, the world danced to a different beat. The First World War was just ending, and radio was just beginning. Music, however, was in full swing and, as far as one young man was concerned, it was about to change his life forever. Dal Richards, known across Canada as the consummate band leader, turned 95 years young on Jan. 5. The overall celebration however simply could not be confined to just one day as Dal and his wife Muriel have made several appearances at various events across the city. One of the most glamorous events was held last Sunday night as friends and well-wishers from all across the land came out to wish Dal well at the nostalgic “The Roof” venue. Located at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, it was an evening of live music, good food and fabulous memories which ended with Dal himself singing his signature favourite song — “As Time Goes By.”Needless to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Happy Birthday Dal!

1 With more than 95 years of memories and melodies in his heart, Dal Richards enters his party like a rock star with wife Muriel on his arm to greet friends, family and invited guests. 2 Bard on the Beach’s own leading man Christopher Gaze joins PR gal Bonnie Allan to toast the birthday boy himself. 3 Known for his own legendary role in the Vancouver music scene, Red Robinson attends the soiree with wife Carol, left, and Diane Forsyth-Abbott. 4 Doo wop doo wow! Jennifer Hayes, left, and Diane Lines, otherwise known as Dal’s Gals, are a big part of the Dal Richards Orchestra. This night they help lead the crowd in a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday.” 5 West Vancouver’s Bob and Lily Lee are among the many VIPs in attendance wishing Dal all the best. 6 Tourism Vancouver CEO and president Rick Antonson cuddled up with North Vancouver’s well-known gossip gal Joy Metcalfe to celebrate. 7 Known for her adventures on the CityTV morning show, Dawn Chubai is also a new Dal’s Gals member who frequently sings with the band.