A number of the most distinguished women in Canada’s arts community will be onstage at the Premiere Dance Theatre. In a rare public appearance, legendary author Alice Munro will read from her once-banned book Lives of Girls and Women – following which Dionne Brand, Adrienne Clarkson, Ann-Marie MacDonald and Deepa Mehta will engage in an on-stage conversation about women’s live and freedom of expression. Also present will be June Callwood, Honorary Event Chair.

"We are honoured that these extraordinary women have chosen to demonstrate their support for PEN Canada’s important work in this way," said PEN Canada President Constance Rooke. "This is sure to be an evening that everyone present will enjoy and treasure for years to come."

Immediately following the event at Harbourfront, there will be a gala dinner in the Great Hall of Hart House on the campus of the University of Toronto. Literary stars, including IFOA participants and other writers serving as PEN Canada ambassadors, will mingle, dine and dance in the company of dignitaries, business leaders and other members of the public gathered in support of PEN Canada.

At the gala dinner, the inaugural PEN Canada/Paul Kidd Courage Award will be presented to Paul William Roberts in recognition for his courageous writing and determination to get the news out, often in the face of enormous obstacles.

Date:
Thursday, October 20, 2005

Time:
6pm (Reading and onstage conversation);
8.30pm (Reception and dinner)

Location:
Premiere Dance Theatre, Harbourfront;
Great Hall, Hart House,
University of Toronto

Tickets to the reading only are $35 each. Tickets to both events cost $250 and are eligible for a $150 tax receipt. All proceeds to benefit PEN Canada.