Danny Schur, a renowned composer and producer from Winnipeg, passed away on April 10, 2023, at the age of 56. He was known for his contributions to the stage production of the Winnipeg General Strike musical “Strike!” and its film adaptation, “Stand!”. Continue reading to know more about Danny Schur’s life, career, and the legacy he left behind.
Who was Danny Schur? Learn more about him
Danny Schur was a musician and artist from Ethelbert, Manitoba, Canada, who developed a passion for music in his hometown. He learned to play the piano and sing in a Ukrainian church choir before attending the University of Manitoba’s School of Music. Schur’s musical career began with collaborations with popular artists such as Chantal Kreviazuk and Doc Walker, and he co-wrote the 1999 Pan Am Games theme song with his wife. In 2000, he produced his first musical theater production, The Bridge, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Ukrainian settlement in Canada.
Schur’s interests extended beyond music to include hockey, and he made a documentary in 2015 called Made in Winnipeg: The Terry Sawchuk Origin Story about a Hall of Fame goalie from Winnipeg’s Ukrainian Canadian community. As the artistic director of Rainbow Stage, Schur produced his most notable work, “Strike!” in 2005, co-written with Rick Chafe. Despite the city’s initial refusal, Schur rented Rainbow Stage himself and almost went bankrupt to make it happen. He was known for his resilience and determination, refusing to give up. Schur’s passion for highlighting the cities, provinces, and residents of the region inspired Rainbow Stage to produce similar shows. His unwavering commitment to bringing Winnipeg’s history to life gave people a greater appreciation for the city’s labor history and struggles.
How did Danny Schur die? What was his cause of death?
Danny Schur, a musician and artist from Winnipeg, passed away on April 10, 2023, after fighting brain cancer.
Despite being diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2022, Schur made a comeback to pop music that year, co-writing songs and producing music videos with vocalist Leah Janae.
He also showed great determination in bringing the musical adaptation of “Strike!” to the big screen, even when funding sources dried up.
He persevered and eventually convinced the Canadian Labour Congress to sponsor a $1.25-million plan to distribute video copies of “Stand!” to schools.
Schur continued to work and inspire others until his passing, despite his illness. Friends, family, and fellow musicians mourned his loss, and the Winnipeg theater scene hopes to continue his legacy of showcasing plays that highlight the region’s cities, provinces, and residents.
Tributes pour in for Danny Schur
Patti Kusturok shared a post on Facebook expressing sorrow over the death of Danny Schur. According to her, when she was young, she did a fiddle track at Sunshine Records, where Schur was the producer.
He taught her about playing backup fiddle on a recording and putting her heart and soul into a solo. She said she remembers his guidance every time she’s in the studio. She also conveyed her condolences to his family and thanked him for his teachings.
Cameron Patterson expressed shock over Danny Schur’s death on Facebook. He said he first met Schur during record sessions at Sunshine Records and later worked with him on film and writing projects. Patterson was “absolutely shocked” by Schur’s passing and offered his condolences.
During this challenging time, we offer our deepest sympathies and support to the family, friends, and community of Danny Schur. We recognize the emotional distress and sorrow that accompany the loss of a loved one, and we are committed to providing any assistance or support necessary. Please monitor this page for more news, and if you have any comments or suggestions, please use the feedback form provided.
FAQs
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Who is Danny Schur?
Danny Schur was a multi-talented composer, producer, and writer who made significant contributions to Winnipeg’s arts scene, including as artistic director of Rainbow Stage and producing the musical “Strike!”, that celebrated the region’s labor history.
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How did Danny Schur die?
Danny Schur died on April 10, 2023, after battling brain cancer; he was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2022.