There’s an art to it
The Governor General celebrates the performing spirit
For 24 years the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards ( GGPAA) have been celebrating and inspiring the performing ar t s across t he country. This year, over 2,000 guests packed Southam Hall at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa for a truly inspirational night.
The most enjoyable aspect of these awards is the access you gain to incredible artists from different disciplines that you may not have otherwise been exposed to. The 2016 GGPAA laureates for Lifetime Artistic Achievement were: Susan Aglukark, O. C. — singer, songwriter and humanitarian; Marie Chouinard, O. C. — artist, choreographer, writer and teacher; Ben Heppner, C.C. — dramatic tenor and radio
host; Robert Lantos, C. M. — film and television producer; and Suzanne Lebeau — children’s playwright and artistic director. The Ramon John Hnatyshyn Award for Voluntarism in the Performing Arts was given to John D. McKellar, C.M.
One of the highlights of the night was hearing from his son, actor and Tony- Award winner Don McKellar, who gave a heartfelt and moving tribute to his father. He said the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards was really an award for great parenting and that his dad has served as a father to many artists across Canada, giving them guidance and advice.
No one could sum up the night better than the Governor General. His Excellency David Johnston, noted, “The arts create wonderful spaces in which to explore the various aspects of the human experience in all its complexity.” He continued, “They have the power to stir within us unique emotions, to whisk us away to extraordinary places and give voice to the ineffable. They provide a window into the unknown, a glimpse at fascinating worlds. Let’s celebrate the outstanding contributions of some of our greatest artists and volunteers, whose works and influence on Canada’s cultural life are an incredible source of inspiration.”
The National Arts Centre will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards on June 29, 2017 in Ottawa, and one recipient has already confirmed his attendance: Canadian singer Michael Bublé.
Every Canadian should experience the GGPAA just once in their lifetime. The night has a funny way of making one feel truly proud of being Canadian.