If music, films, and plays bring joy to people and are instruments of change in society, shouldn’t the best and the brightest be recognized and feted for their artistic contributions and achievements?
The Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards do just that with a party that lasts all weekend. This year’s festivities began on May 28 as Canada’s parliamentarians met the award winners at a reception in Centre Block on Parliament Hill.
The next evening, the laureates received a medal from Gov. Gen. David Johnston. They also got a cash award of $25,000 and dinner with Johnston and wife Sharon at the GG’s residence. Then on May 30, the winners were entertained at the gala show at the National Arts Centre.
In his address at the awards ceremony, Johnston talked about why the awards were well-deserved.
“You have stirred our souls, drawn us out in dazzling performances, shared your visions with us through your talent, your creativity, your art,” he said.
“You make films, theatre, television and music. Your creations have earned international praise because of their originality, intensity, and relevance. Your work affects us so deeply. It matters to Canada and to Canadians, and to audiences around the world.”
