Ottawa, Ontario, Saturday, June 11, 2016

Shakespeare, who died 400 years ago this year, often used the character of the fool to say the wisest things, and one of my favourite Shakespeare lines was delivered by Polonius, who plays the fool in Hamlet.

Polonius is speaking to his son Laertes who is leaving to attend university, when he says:

This above all: to thine own self be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.

The performing artists and arts workers we celebrate tonight have been true to themselves, because for them, artistic transformation is truth.

And we as audience members are so fortunate to be transported by their creativity in music, theatre, dance and film.

Our laureates have inspired Canadians and enthralled audiences worldwide.

They have helped to bring the arts of Canada to the world and the arts of the world to Canada, and tonight we honour their achievements and we say: thank you.

Any performer will tell you of the sacrifices they must make to reach a stage like this one—physically, intellectually, emotionally, financially. Theirs is truly a labour of love, and fortunately for us, to borrow again from Shakespeare, their love’s labour’s are not lost.

Canada is an arts nation. We’re very fortunate to live in a country where the performing arts are valued and widely enjoyed.

I’m especially looking forward to seeing the 150th anniversary of Confederation celebrated next year in countless artistic ways, including here at the National Arts Centre which is in the midst of an exciting transformation.

What better way to tell the story of Canada than through the performing arts?

To our laureates: my sincere congratulations to each of you, and to your loved ones who have helped you along the way.

You make us all very proud.

Thank you for delighting and entertaining us, for challenging our intellects and stirring our emotions, for your support of the arts and for showing us what is possible.

Enjoy the evening, everyone!