Announcement of the Governor General Performing Arts Awards

His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, participated in the announcement of this year’s laureates of the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards, on Thursday, March 3, 2011, at at the Glenn Gould Studio, in Toronto. For more information on the laureates of the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards, please visit www.ggpaa.ca.

"By virtue of their skill, these laureates have contributed to Canada’s soul, helping to characterize our artistic landscape and defining Canada to the world. Their dedication to their craft has propelled them to the very pinnacle of their profession, and it is for this reason that we celebrate their accomplishments with the presentation of Lifetime Artistic Achievement awards and the National Arts Centre Award."

Mr. Yvon Deschamps was announced as one of the laureates of the 2011 Governor General's Performing Arts Awards for Lifetime Artistic Achievement. Best known for his satirical monologues, he held up a mirror to Quebec society during the Quiet Revolution and beyond. His sharply original humour launched a new tradition of francophone comedy that continues to this day.

Ms. Margie Gillis, dance artist, choreographer and teacher, was announced as the laureate of the Governor General's Performing Arts Awards for Lifetime Artistic Achievement. As a courageous and free-spirited pioneer of modern dance, she has earned rave reviews and a loyal following throughout the world and her unique naturalistic style has influenced an entire generation of dancers.

Mr. William Shatner was also named as laureate of the 2011 Governor General Performing Arts Awards for Lifetime Artistic Achievement. In a wide-ranging career spanning six decades, Mr. Shatner is an award-winning actor, accomplished director, best-selling author, and dedicated philanthropist and environmentalist whose compassion, creativity, and irrepressible sense of humour are integral to his life and work.