February 24, 2004 -

OTTAWA -- The National Arts Centre Orchestra and Opera Lyra Ottawa are proud to announce that the Black & White Opera Soirée fundraising concert on Saturday, February 21, has raised over $250,000 to benefit both organizations.

Starring mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves and baritone James Westman, with actor Albert Millaire as host, the Black & White Opera Soirée was presented for the seventh consecutive year by Bell Canada. James Judd conducted the National Arts Centre Orchestra and the Opera Lyra Ottawa Chorus was prepared by Laurence Ewashko.

The 12-member fundraising committee was chaired by Guy J. Pratte of Borden Ladner Gervais LLP. The proceeds from this joint fundraiser will help maintain and further develop the artistic excellence of the National Arts Centre Orchestra and Opera Lyra Ottawa.

Guy Pratte said: “I’m sure I speak for everyone who had the privilege of being in the audience when I say what a fantastic concert we heard. I can’t thank all the artists enough. They have added to the spectacular ongoing success of the Black & White Opera Soirée which has raised an amazing $1.5 million over the past seven years. What an exceptional gift that represents from this community to the National Arts Centre Orchestra and Opera Lyra Ottawa.”

The evening was presented by Bell Canada in association with Enbridge Gas Distribution and Scotiabank. Special thanks go to Ernst & Young, Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt, Nortel Networks Limited, Audi /Mark Motors of Ottawa Ltd., Petro-Canada, Telus, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, Alcatel, CIBC, The Ottawa Citizen, Le Droit, CBC/Radio-Canada, B!ddle McGillvray Advertising, The Lowe-Martin Group and The Westin Ottawa. Denyce Graves’ visit was supported by the United States Government CultureConnect Program.

Information:
Jane Morris, National Arts Centre
(613) 947-7000, ext. 335

Laïla-Gabrielle Côté,
Opera Lyra Ottawa
(613) 233-9200, ext 229