GOVERNOR GENERAL’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA CONCERT, JUNE 16, 2002
A star-studded line-up of Canadian musicians performed in a free open-air concert celebrating half a century of Canadian Governors General on Sunday, June 16, 2002. Held on a huge outdoor stage on the grounds of Rideau Hall, the two-hour musical celebration showcased a dazzling combination of Canadian talent and musical styles: The Barenaked Ladies, Gordon Lightfoot, Roch Voisine, Natalie MacMaster, Richard Margison, Paul Brandt, Deborah Cox, Mario Pelchat, Susan Aglukark, Les Violons du Roy, Measha Brueggergosman, Trio François Bourassa, Jon Kimura Parker, the Canadian Brass, Mario Bernardi and the National Arts Centre Orchestra
Televised nationally by CBC and Radio-Canada, Live from Rideau Hall was hosted by Governor General Adrienne Clarkson and was an incredible musical evening to remember.
“Music has always been a part of celebration. It is a universally accessible expression of a culture and something we can all share,” said the Governor General. ”This amazing group of Canadian artists and musicians reflects the explosion of Canadian talent in so many musical styles. What better way to highlight our 50th Anniversary of Canadian Governors General than to invite everyone to join us for an unforgettable night of music here, on the grounds at Rideau Hall – or across Canada on television.”
MJC coordinated the talent for the concert through a deluge of rain, sinking stages, soaked dressing rooms, and decked out in the chicest of rain ponchos and rubber boots!
