Ottawa, Ontario – NAC English Theatre, in association with Theatre Museum Canada, is proud to present a retrospective exhibit on the life and work of one of Canada’s foremost playwrights, Newfoundland and Labrador’s David French (1939-2010), in conjunction with the NAC English Theatre production of his play Salt-Water Moon.

Focusing on his five semi-autobiographical plays about the fictional Mercer family of Newfoundland, the exhibit combines rare artifacts, images and text to examine the history of French’s darkly humorous slice-of-life dramas, and his far-reaching influence in the development of English Canadian theatre.

“We are delighted to have this unique opportunity to honour one of Canadian theatre’s most accomplished and influential playwrights, David French,” says NAC President and CEO Peter Herrndorf, “and to present this exhibition in tandem with our production of Salt-Water Moon, French’s classic work from the Mercer cycle of plays.”

Says Michael Wallace, Executive Director of Theatre Museum Canada, “Producing this exhibition reminds us how important it is to preserve the archives of theatres and artists. These theatrical records and artifacts document the legacy of pioneers like David French, playing a vital role in our appreciation today of his work and influence.”

This special retrospective exhibition was produced with the support and collaboration of the French family, who have also loaned numerous artifacts and photos to be displayed.

David French: Writing Home opened September 30 as part of Culture Days at the NAC, and continues in the NAC Theatre Lobby through November 6, 2011. An online companion exhibit is also featured on the NAC’s educational website ArtsAlive.ca.

Salt-Water Moon, directed by Micheline Chevrier and featuring Holly Gauthier-Frankel and Jamie Mac, runs October 18 – November 5, 2011 in the NAC Theatre.

Embassy Hotel & Suites is proud to be the Official Hotel Partner for the National Arts Centre English Theatre.

For more detailed information about the artists and productions at the NAC English Theatre, click on www.nac-cna.ca/en/theatre.

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For more information, please call:
Sean Fitzpatrick
Communications Officer
National Arts Centre English Theatre
613-947-7000 ext. 389 or Cell 613-899-9737
Sean.Fitzpatrick@nac-cna.ca or visit the NAC website at www.nac-cna.ca