– Interactive event to discuss the impact of immigration –

May 15, 2023 – Over a third of Prince Edward Islanders have ancestral ties to Scotland, the setting for the new musical MAGGIE coming to The 2023 Charlottetown Festival. The show explores immigration and its impact on families, so Confederation Centre of the Arts is hosting We’re Canada Bound: Stories of Making a New Life in Canada – an interactive event where people can share their families’ stories.

Presented in partnership with Glenaladale Heritage Trust and Immigration and Refugee Services Association P.E.I., the free event is an opportunity for Island residents to discuss a range of topics, from the social influences that effect the decision to immigrate, to the spectrum of emotions felt by family members leaving and the ones staying behind.

The event will be hosted by Cameron MacDonald, the Centre’s heritage coordinator. “Many Islanders have experienced the complexities of the life-changing event of immigration,” he says. “Whether your ancestors arrived from Scotland on the  Alexander in 1772, or you have recently arrived from countries like India, Turkey, or Colombia, we invite you to come and share your family’s stories of migration, hope, and resilience.”

There are two opportunities to participate in the event:

Saturday, May 20 from 2 – 4 p.m. at Glenaladale House (Tracadie Cross) – which will focus on Scottish immigration stories
Saturday, May 27 from 2 – 4 p.m. at Studio 1, Confederation Centre of the Arts – which will focus on newcomer stories

Both sessions will feature performances from Indigenous leaders – acknowledging the original caretakers of the land before sharing stories from those who came later. Storytelling will be followed by a tea reception with traditional Scottish treats.

Seating is limited so pre-registration is required at confederationcentre.com or through the Centre’s box office at 1-800-565-0278.

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Photo cutline: The cast of MAGGIE. Dahlia Katz Photography.

Media Contact:
Emily McMahon, Communications Manager, Confederation Centre of the Arts
[email protected] | 902-628-6135