More than 200 Newcomers Attend Performance of James Kudelka’s Cinderella.

On March 14^th, the National Ballet of Canada, in partnership with the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, hosted a magical evening for 200 newcomers to Canada. We would like to thank the National Ballet of Canada for this memorable night of beauty, culture and community building. Their commitment to enriching the lives of Canadians through the arts is inspiring.

James Kudelka’s Cinderella was breathtaking, set to Prokofiev’s vibrant score, with Art Deco-inspired designs by David Boechler and lighting by Christopher Dennis. But the night was about so much more than the performance.

The National Ballet is a valued Canoo partner, providing new Canadians and their families with access to exceptional cultural events. And thanks to their incredible generosity, last night marked the first time that 200 Canoo members gathered together under one roof. It provided a unique opportunity for newcomers to connect with members of the National Ballet, Canoo team members – and each other.

The night started with an exclusive Canoo pre-performance reception, held in the magnificent Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Just being in the same room as the stunning architecture, beautiful artwork and talented performers was enough to evoke a feeling of awe and electricity.

The evening’s events were introduced by Lisa Robinson, Senior Manager of Education & Community Engagement at the National Ballet of Canada, followed by remarks from Barry Hughson, Executive Director of the National Ballet and The Rt. Hon. Adrienne Clarkson & John Ralston Saul, Co-Founders, Institute for Canadian Citizenshipand First Soloist, Tanya Howard.

They all emphasized the National Ballet’s commitment to enriching the lives of Canadians and the power of the arts to foster belonging and inclusion. In attendance were ICC’s founders, the Rt. Hon Adrienne Clarkson and John Ralston Saul.

As newcomer Citizenship rates drop across the country, the National Ballet’s initiative, in partnership with the ICC, is a testament that Canada has the potential to reverse this trend and provide true welcoming moments for Canada’s newest peoples.

Thank you to all who attended this wonderful event! Please share your experience (and photos!) on our social channels @CanooPass, @Inclusion.ca and in the comments.

Please click here to view all photos from The National Ballet and Canoo event.