Fans of Royal Canoe are showing their support in a big way after a trailer containing roughly $90,000 worth of the band’s gear was stolen from a hotel parking lot near Montreal on Oct. 24.
An indiegogo campaign to help the Winnipeg-based group has raised more than $14,500 in the first four days.
“We spent the last ten years slowly acquiring the instruments and equipment that was stolen,” reads a message from the band. “We’ve tried to think of an alternative option, but we find ourselves in a place where we can’t afford to continue moving forward in the long term without some help.”
The stolen trailer contained instruments, personal effects and band merchandise. Royal Canoe said “a large portion” was insured.
“Earlier this year, when we renewed our insurance policy we made sure all the gear we owned was on it,” they explained. “But, since renewing the policy, we purchased a number of items to improve our show for this tour that were not included. Our merchandise was also not insured.”
Royal Canoe admitted they were reluctant to make a public plea for support.
“As people of privilege, we get to tour around the country playing music, and are so lucky to have all the support we do from our country and fans.”
Royal Canoe managed to finish the Canadian leg of its current tour and is now on the road in the U.S. until Nov. 12. The band heads to Europe for a string of shows in January and February.
In July, Canadian opera singer Measha Brueggergosman launched a GoFundMe campaign after being the victim of a break-and-enter. She deleted the appeal for help, though, after only a day.