FESTIVAL MARKS INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELIMINATION OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION

March 18, 2003 - The Library and Archives of Canada is pleased to host the première of the Broken English Theatre Company's (BET) Multi-Colourful Festival -- a celebration of the diverse traditions and practices that make up Canada's pluralistic society. The festival, which takes place March 21, coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Founded in 1995 by immigrant actors, BET is a professional multicultural theatre company. It has produced a number of projects including plays, high school workshops, writing competitions and other activities designed to raise awareness among Canadians of the effects of changing societal demographics.

The festival (presented in English only) will showcase in part BET's current project Fit-In?!, a production featuring performances by the Company's actors and local students from Ottawa's Woodroffe, Rideau, and St. Pius X high schools. The production explores the immigrant experience and racial prejudice as its principal themes.

WHEN: Friday, March 21, 2003, at 7:30 p.m. Reception with cast members follows at 9:30 p.m.
WHERE: Library and Archives of Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario