Community Celebrates Five Artists Inducted into Hall of Fame

The E.A. Rawlinson Centre for the Arts in Prince Albert was alive with applause on March 15, 2024, as five remarkable individuals were inducted into the Prince Albert Arts Hall of Fame. This gala event highlighted the city’s vibrant arts community, drawing a significant audience that included city council members, previous inductees, and dedicated supporters.

The evening commenced with a stirring performance by the Prince Albert Children’s Choir, featuring soloists who are students of inductee Karen Langlois. This musical introduction set a celebratory tone for the night, which focused on mentorship, creativity, and the profound impact of the arts.

Honoring Contributions to the Arts

Karen Langlois accepted awards on behalf of 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 of dedication to teaching and directing in the local theatre scene. A message from Gillian Horn of Broadway North praised their enduring influence on aspiring artists.

“It’s overwhelming, but what a lovely place to be on a Friday evening,” said Karen. She expressed gratitude for the support from the Prince Albert community, friends, and family, especially during challenging times. “You have allowed us to keep teaching, making music, and creating musical theatre,” she added, before congratulating the fellow inductees.

Dennis Adams, another honoree, was introduced by his daughter, Amanda, who spoke passionately about his five decades of involvement in the local music scene. “For more than 50 years, Dad has been a cornerstone of the Prince Albert music scene,” Amanda stated proudly. The tribute highlighted Adams’ leadership roles, including his contributions to the Prince Albert Winter Festival and the Music Lives Here program, which donates instruments to youth.

Upon receiving a standing ovation, Adams emphasized the importance of music in nurturing dreams. “Instruments shouldn’t sit gathering dust. Through this program, we put them into the hands of someone who has a dream,” he remarked. He later thanked his family, drawing more applause from the audience.

Inspiring Future Generations

Christina Thoen, founder of Art & Soul Studio, was recognized for her more than 30 years of service to the local arts community, during which she has taught over 2,000 students. Her longtime assistant introduced her with a touching tribute that highlighted Thoen’s ability to foster creativity and confidence.

“I wished I had had an art school when I was a kid,” Thoen shared during her acceptance speech. She expressed her commitment to helping individuals find joy in creativity, stating, “Prince Albert has been an amazing support system, and I can’t thank this community enough.” Thoen’s words resonated with many in the audience, as she emphasized overcoming the fear of artistic expression.

The final inductee of the evening, Cheryl Ring, founder of HeartSpace Studio, was celebrated for her impactful community projects, including the internationally recognized Heart Spirits installation. Her presenter acknowledged her reputation as a mentor and collaborator.

Ring delivered a spirited speech filled with gratitude and reflection. “Arts fills the bricks and mortar with passion, beauty, ideas, and conversation,” she stated. She recognized the importance of art, even when it challenges our perceptions, and concluded with a poignant quote from Richard Wagamese: “We are all one drum, and we need each other.”

Closing the event, Adrianna Gareau, Chair of the Arts Board, thanked board members and sponsors, noting this year’s record number of nominations. “Tonight we’ve seen how much our inductees give of their time, their passion, and their hearts,” Gareau said.

The evening culminated in a standing ovation, celebrating not only the achievements of five extraordinary individuals but also the vital role of the arts in enriching the community of Prince Albert.