Oct. 4 2011, Nelson BC –The whole community is invited to a magical night of bilingual theatre, a unique experience for everyone who loves French, but doesn’t necessarily speak it. An adaptation of Saint-Exupéry’s “Le Petit Prince” will be presented in Nelson on October 22nd at the Rod and Gun Club. The play will be presented in French with English subtitles and will be preceded by a dinner.

As part of the Association des francophones des Kootenays Ouest, (AFKO’s) 25th Anniversary Celebration, the play will also be presented in Revelstoke, Kaslo and Rossland. This creative endeavour is part of a greater initiative: a Sister City exchange made between Nelson and Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec. The local band, Almanak, performed there last August and, in turn, Daniel Gaudet, a theatrical director with 20 years of experience, has come to Nelson to direct his dynamic troupe of eighteen local actors who range in age from 8 to 70. "The City of Nelson is pleased AFKO has organized this cultural event. It's a nice marriage of both official languages," says Kim Charlesworth, City Councilor.   

The West Kootenay region’s continued support of AFKO, as well as its interest in the French Immersion programs and French schools, is evidence that the French language and culture are alive and well here. Since its creation in 1986, AFKO has allowed hundreds of francophones and francophiles to connect and share a culture and language. Today AFKO boasts more than 400 active members, regional and local events, and offers a variety of services. "I am really pleased that we, the organisation, have chosen an artistic event that is regional, accessible and linguistically enriching to mark our 25 years. I would like to thank everyone for their encouragement and dedication," expresses Prudence-Elise Breton, executive director of AFKO.   

AFKO’s 25th Anniversary Committee hopes to assemble as many people as possible to enjoy this special, family friendly celebration. Admission is by donation. The event starts at 5:30 pm with a dinner provided by local caterer Nancy Guillemette. Showtime is at 8:00 pm. The public is strongly encouraged to reserve well in advance, as seating is limited. Please call AFKO at (250) 352-3516
during office hours.  

This project is funded in part by Canadian Heritage, Secrétariat aux affaires intergouvernementales canadiennes (SAIC), the Province of British Columbia and Columbia Basin Trust.

Contact: Elaine Gower   
Phone: (250) 352-3516

Attachments:

Le Petit Prince_25e AFKO_Engl.pdf	[ ]	424 Kb
Le Petit Prince_25e AFKO_fr.pdf	[ ]	139 Kb