Media Releases

September 10, 2008

Statement by Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion on the death of Richard Monette

On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family and many friends of Richard Monette, former Artistic Director of the Stratford Festival of Canada.

From performing on the stage to directing award-winning productions to raising the Stratford Festival to a level of international prominence, Mr. Monette has left an indelible mark on the theatre community in Canada. During his 14 years as Artistic Director, he produced the entire Shakespearean canon, managing to captivate first-time theatre goers and returning fans alike. His efforts will ensure packed audiences at the festival for many years to come.

Across Canada and around the world he will be remembered for breathing new life into some of our most-loved characters and for bringing out the very best in Canada’s finest stage actors. He will be deeply missed.