Community Celebrates Five New Inductees into Arts Hall of Fame

The E.A. Rawlinson Centre for the Arts in Prince Albert was filled with applause and warmth on March 15, 2024, as five new members were inducted into the Prince Albert Arts Hall of Fame. The gala attracted a diverse crowd, including city council members, previous inductees, and prominent supporters of the arts, creating a vibrant celebration of individual achievements and the community’s creative spirit.

The evening commenced with a captivating performance by the Prince Albert Children’s Choir, featuring soloists who are students of inductee Karen Langlois. This performance underscored the theme of mentorship and the transformative power of art that defined the night.

Honoring Artistic Contributions

Karen Langlois received awards for both herself and her husband, Mike Langlois, who was unable to attend due to health issues. A close friend delivered a heartfelt tribute, recounting the couple’s decades-long dedication to teaching, directing, and mentoring students in the local arts community. The message from Broadway North’s Gillian Horn praised their lasting impact on local theatre.

“It’s overwhelming, but what a lovely place to be on a Friday evening,” Karen expressed. “Mike and I have been overwhelmed by the support, the compassion, and the kindness of Prince Albert, our family, youth, friends, and the arts community, who have stood by us through unprecedented health challenges. You have allowed us to keep teaching, making music, and creating musical theatre.” She concluded her remarks by congratulating the other inductees and thanking the audience for their support.

Dennis Adams, another inductee, was introduced by his daughter, Amanda Adams, who highlighted his significant influence on the local music scene over the past five decades. “For more than 50 years, Dad has been a cornerstone of the Prince Albert music scene,” she said, filled with pride. Amanda’s tribute emphasized his roles in creating spaces for music and his extensive volunteer work, including leadership positions with the Prince Albert Winter Festival and the Music Lives Here program, which repairs and donates instruments to youth.

Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Adams expressed his gratitude, stating, “I really believe tonight is about the human spirit and positivity. Instruments shouldn’t sit gathering dust. Through this program, we put them into the hands of someone who has a dream.” He also took a moment to thank his family, receiving warm applause from the crowd.

Celebrating Community and Creativity

Christina Thoen, founder of Art & Soul Studio, was recognized for her more than 30 years of service, inspiring over 2,000 students in Prince Albert. Her longtime assistant and student introduced her with a tribute that highlighted her ability to nurture creativity and confidence in learners of all ages. Thoen’s acceptance speech resonated emotionally with the audience as she shared her motivations for starting her school.

“I wished I had had an art school when I was a kid,” Thoen remarked. “Starting my school was about helping children, and adults, find their joy and realize that they too can create. Prince Albert has been an amazing support system, and I can’t thank this community enough.” She emphasized the importance of sharing joy through art and overcoming the fear that often prevents people from exploring their creative potential.

The final inductee of the night, Cheryl Ring, founder of HeartSpace Studio, was celebrated for her community projects, including the internationally recognized Heart Spirits installation. Her presenter highlighted her reputation as a mentor, collaborator, and friend in the local arts community. Ring’s acceptance speech combined humor, gratitude, and reflection, as she discussed the vital role of art in fostering conversation and connection.

“Arts fill the bricks and mortar with passion, beauty, ideas, and conversation,” she stated. Ring thanked her nominators, family, and friends for their support, closing with a quote from Richard Wagamese: “We are all one drum, and we need each other.”

The evening concluded with remarks from Adrianna Gareau, chair of the Arts Board, who expressed gratitude to the board members and sponsors. She noted that this year saw a record number of nominations, highlighting the community’s strong commitment to the arts. “Tonight we’ve seen how much our inductees give of their time, their passion, and their hearts,” Gareau remarked. “They make Prince Albert a richer, more beautiful place to live.”

As the crowd rose in a final ovation, the night celebrated not only the achievements of five remarkable individuals but also the enduring strength and spirit of the arts in Prince Albert.