Manitoba children’s entertainer Al Simmons has lost hundreds of homemade props and show supplies after his workshop went up in flames.
A friend started a GoFundMe page for Simmons that says a blaze tore through his “Magic Workshop” earlier this month.
READ MORE: Al Simmons celebrates 45 years of entertaining
Simmons went into the burning workshop to rescue a few “severely damaged treasures,” but most were lost.
Get daily National news
“The last armful of clothing that I brought out, I didn’t realize it at the time but it was on fire. So I didn’t go in again,” he said. “It’s pointless hoping for a better past — that doesn’t lead anywhere but I must admit I have regrets that I didn’t go back in, but I might not have gotten out.”
The shed was where he stored all his hand-made props and costumes. He’s starting to rebuild.
“I can’t stop my brain. I’m going to think up new stuff to make and I have new songs I’ve written. I’m not quitting,” he said.
All of his upcoming shows and productions will still go on.
WATCH: Al Simmons brings his hijinks to Global News
According to Jeff Hudson, chief of the Springfield Fire and Rescue Service, the fire isn’t suspicious and was likely caused by an electrical issue.
The Juno Award-winner is in his 48th year of performing in front of families using his own homemade machines and costumes.
Comments