Some evenings come and go… and some leave a lasting impression.

On May 5, as guests stepped into the Monument-National, it already felt like something special was about to happen. There was excitement in the air: teams putting the final touches in place, alumni returning “home,” students taking in the moment… and the strong feeling that we were all part of something much bigger than just an event.

Imagined and directed by Frédéric Dubois, and brought to life with warmth and generosity by host René Richard Cyr, the evening’s performance moved effortlessly from laughter to emotion. Watching Éric Bruneau, Marilyn Castonguay, Gilles Renaud, Sandrine Bisson, Magalie Lépine-Blondeau, Irdens Exantus and Roy Dupuis revisit their entrance auditions for the School alongside students from the Interprétation program was touching, funny, vulnerable and deeply genuine. It was a beautiful meeting of generations — and a powerful reminder of why the National Theatre School of Canada has existed for 65 years: to nurture voices, create connections and pass on a love of theatre.

And just when we thought the show had come to an end, the curtain rose one last time for a surprise that was as simple as it was unforgettable: the School choir gathered on stage to perform two songs and usher us into the next part of the evening. A suspended moment filled with light, pride and joy.

And what a response from the community! More than 300 people gathered together, and $225,000 was raised in support of the next generation of theatre artists — but beyond the numbers, what stood out most was the incredible outpouring of love for the School and its mission.

There is something deeply moving about seeing months of work come to life in a room filled with people who are engaged, generous and genuinely happy to be there.

This benefit gala was about much more than fundraising: it was a celebration of our community, our history and everything we still have to build together.

So yes… we’re still floating on a little cloud. And between us? We’re already looking forward to what comes next.

Photos: Maxence Mournier