In Memoriam

Ada Slaight

It is with deep sadness that The National Ballet of Canada mourns the passing of Ada Slaight, a cherished friend. Ms. Slaight will be remembered for the depth of her generosity, and the vision that has defined her philanthropic relationship with the National Ballet for three decades.

Ms. Slaight's legacy of support for children and arts education began with her first gift to Share the Magic in 1989. An annual event, Share the Magic reserves more than 1,600 free tickets to The Nutcracker for children residing in Toronto's high needs neighbourhoods, at-risk youth participating in after-school or community arts programmes, women and children utilizing the facilities and services of women's shelters, and seriously ill children and their families.

Ms. Slaight's 30-year investment in the National Ballet's Share the Magic programme has brought joy into the lives of 97,400 children and youth who would not otherwise have access to a live ballet performance.

The impact of Ms. Slaight's generosity is boundless, and will continue to reveal itself over time – in the creativity, joy, and humanity of the many children she reached. The National Ballet will fondly remember Ms. Slaight for her enormous gesture of love and goodwill.

All my life I have drawn fulfillment and inspiration from the arts. What I hope to do is share this opportunity for personal, emotional, and intellectual growth with young audiences, particularly those in need. It gives me great pleasure to bring children closer to dance, because I understand how deeply affecting these experiences can be. – Ada Slaight