Celebrate – Month of La Francophonie

Event: International Day of La Francophonie: A hundred years of French theatre with the Théâtre Cercle Molière

Canadian Heritage is partnering with the Canada School of Public Service and Théâtre Cercle Molière to celebrate International Day of La Francophonie. This year, Franco-Manitoban theatre takes centre stage. Register now!

This virtual event marks the 100th anniversary of Théâtre Cercle Molière by taking you on a journey through the rich history of this, the oldest of North America’s active theatre companies. Based in Saint Boniface, Winnipeg, the theatre company has been promoting French-language theatre since its inception and has established itself, generation after generation, as a key player in the vitality of the Francophone community.

The event will feature a screen adaptation of “Ô Canada, té qui toi?” [O Canada, just who are you?] Drawing on real-life stories, the play explores the theme of youth integration in rural communities that are being transformed by rising immigration. The play also takes on the themes of identity, belonging, reconciliation and openness to diversity.

The aim of the production is to spark curiosity and encourage respectful conversations about cultural diversity. Audience members will have an opportunity to interact with the artists and ask questions in real time, helping to carry the reflection and intercultural dialogue forward.

Get ready for an engaging, educational experience with a touch of humour.

Event information

Credits: “Ô Canada, té qui toi?”

A Théâtre Cercle Molière production, in collaboration with Afrik'kadi.

Concept and co-creation: Ramatoulaye Cherif, Alison Palmer, Lacina Dembélé

Written and directed by: Lacina Dembélé and Alison Palmer

Stage manager: Samantha Sage

Cast:

• Tyler Shingoose: Louis
• Karam Daoud: Amina
• Axelle Oulé: Jen (Djenaba)
• Alain Tshinza: Ousmane

Set design: Kate George

Sound: Marie-Josée Dandeneau

Costumes: Marie-Rosette Mikulu

Lighting: Patrick Bellemare

Artistic support: Karim Troussi

Filming: Adventures Within Media

Subtitles translation: Jack Maier

International Day of La Francophonie

International Day of La Francophonie is celebrated on March 20. The date was chosen to celebrate the creation of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (IOF) at the Niamey Conference in Niger on March 20, 1970.

That day is meant to celebrate the importance of the French language along with the cultural diversity that exists within the French-speaking communities around the world.

Learn more about what Canada is doing internationally for La Francophonie

Les Rendez-vous de la Francophonie

The Rendez-vous de la Francophonie are part of the month-long cultural celebrations surrounding International Day of La Francophonie in March. This initiative of the Dialogue Network is made possible through the financial support of the Government of Canada.

This year’s theme is “Activate Your Francophonie.” Check out the various French-language activities being held across Canada, and come out in force!