SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — One Hundredth Anniversary of Théâtre Cercle Molière

Honourable senators, this afternoon, right here in the Senate of Canada, we’re going to celebrate a historic moment: the one hundredth anniversary of Théâtre Cercle Molière, or TCM.

Founded in 1925 in the heart of St. Boniface, Manitoba, TCM is now recognized as the oldest theatre company in Canada in any language. A hundred years of passion, creativity and commitment to the French language and the performing arts is an outstanding achievement that deserves to be celebrated.

TCM’s longevity is a tribute to the tenacity and commitment of generations of francophones determined to keep the culture alive and pass on our heritage.

Apart from its historical status, TCM is a living symbol of the vitality and resilience of Canada’s francophonie. At times when the French language was marginalized, TCM represented much more than a place of creation. It became a refuge where the language and culture continued to live, thrive and be passed on.

Under the inspiring co-direction of Marie-Ève Fontaine and Ramatoulaye Cherif, and thanks to the commitment of their teams, TCM’s bold evolution continues, driven by key values like pride, diversity, inclusion and reconciliation.

This celebration is also a chance to honour the vital role of the Société de la francophonie manitobaine, or SFM, which has contributed to the vitality of our community and to promoting language rights and bilingualism for many years.

The one hundredth anniversary of Théâtre Cercle Molière serves to remind us that culture and language rights go hand in hand. The arts, language and collective identity strengthen social cohesion and the vitality of our communities, in Manitoba, across Canada and beyond.

It is therefore an honour to rise in this chamber to pay tribute to all those who have shaped TCM, including artists, volunteers, patrons and audiences.

I am also thinking of Pauline Boutal, a TCM icon whose exceptional contribution was brought to life on the stage by Maryse Gagné during the centennial season’s production of Pauline Boutal, entre les toiles et les planches, a magnificent play written by Lise Gaboury-Diallo, whom I also salute.

Finally, my wish is that Théâtre Cercle Molière continues to amplify strong voices, to tell our stories and to bring our communities together around the richness of the francophone world for another hundred years. Thank you. Meegwetch.