Life in the Early Days at Grand-Pré

June 29, 2009

Grand-Pré, June 29, 2009: Inspired by the ancient tradition of the wandering minstrel, Daniel Castonguay has created an amusing and lively play that shows life in Grand-Pré several decades before the Deportation.

Having worked for eight years as artistic director at the Pays de la Sagouine in Buctouche, New Brunswick, Daniel Castonguay is a master of summer theatre. When asked about his new play called Life in the Early Days at Grand-Pré, Castonguay stated that “it is modern, light-hearted, and accessible. You can laugh and learn while you see some of the highlights of Grand-Pré National Historic Site with new eyes.”

Based on historical facts and real people, the play reveals aspects of Grand-Pré that are not generally known. We discover, for example, that the Acadians in Grand-Pré were active traders and were richer than the average settlers at the time.

The four young actors who play the many roles in Life in the Early Days at Grand-Pré are all students in the theatre program at the Université de Moncton. Tanya Brideau, Ludger Beaulieu, Joseph McNally and Daniel Pinet began rehearsing in Moncton, then moved to Grand-Pré on June 22 to prepare for the premiere performances that took place on Sunday, June 28.

Throughout the summer, from Thursday to Sunday, there will be six performances daily, three in English and three in French. The performance lasts 20 minutes and takes place outdoors or in the memorial church, depending on the weather. The play is included in the price of admission to Grand-Pré National Historic Site. For dates and times, visit www.grand-pre.com or call (902) 542-4040.

Legend for the PHOTO (Chris Reardon) : From left to right, Ludger Beaulieu, Daniel Pinet, Tanya Brideau and Joseph McNally.
All summer long, these four actors from the Dramatic Art Program of Université de Moncton will perform "Life in the Early Days at Grand-Pré" at Grand-Pré National Historic Site of Canada.
The play was written by Daniel Castonguay.

FOR AN INTERVIEW with Daniel Castonguay, playwright and artistic director: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

For further information, please contact:

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

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