Ambassadors for Grand-Pré at the World Acadian Congress

August 10, 2009

Grand-Pré, August 10, 2009: The young actors who have been performing at Grand-Pré National Historic Site have gone to the World Acadian Congress in northern New Brunswick. They will perform the play “Life in Grand-Pré in the Early Days” and, dressed in their costumes, they will also mingle with the crowds, stimulating interest in Grand-Pré. They return to Grand-Pré on August 27th.

Ironically, none of these four young Acadians had ever visited Grand-Pré before this summer. But after 160 performances of the play that takes place in different locations of the park, they are certainly able to promote this magnificent historic site.

Born and brought up in Bathurst, Daniel Pinet says that he considers himself “lucky to have been able to work outside, surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens in a place where his ancestors once lived.” According to Ludger Beaulieu, despite what seemed like a wet summer, they only had to perform four times in the memorial church because of the weather. “This experience has given me a whole new perspective on history and I’ve learned a lot about acting,” says Tanya Brideau.

When asked about the challenges of their work in Grand-Pré, all the actors said that six performances a day mean that they constantly have to be alert so that their acting doesn’t become mechanical. Joseph McNally added that “it’s especially the laughs and positive reactions from the spectators that energize us.” Judging from the visitors’ comments, the play has generated a great deal of interest and is a breath of fresh air at Grand-Pré. Daniel Castonguay, the author of “Life in the Early Days of Grand-Pré,” has every reason to be proud of his creation and his actors.

The actors will return to Grand-Pré for their final performances on August 27, 28, 29 and 30. The three performances daily in English are at 10am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm. The performances in French are at 11am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm. This lively and amusing play lasts about 20 minutes and is worth the trip to Grand-Pré. For further information on activities and exhibits at Grand-Pré, visit www.grand-pre.com http://www.grand-pre.com or call (902) 542-4040.

For more information, please contact:

Sally Ross
Media Relations
Société Promotion Grand-Pré
(902) 826-2981

The Société Promotion Grand-Pré is a non-profit organization representing the Acadian community that collaborates with Parks Canada to ensure the development and integrity of Grand-Pré National Historic Site.

Contact: Victor Tétrault
Executive Director, Société Promotion Grand-Pré
Phone: 902) 542-1952
Fax:902) 542-1691

WebSite: www.grand-pre.com