On Monday, February 16 – Heritage Day and the 20^th anniversary of Heritage Week in Ontario – the Foundation launched Heritage Week at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre. This year also marked the 90^th anniversary of the theatres.

Upon arrival at the Theatre Centre, guests were entertained by a brass jazz trio (Suitcase Brass) in the Elgin Theatre. An anniversary guest book was available for guests to sign in the Thomas Lamb Lobby. All guests received a printed program, a copy of the background paper and the full-colour Heritage Matters insert. Additional Foundation materials were available at various stations throughout the theatre. And the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre Volunteers also had merchandise for sale at their kiosk in the main lobby.

With a fanfare provided by Suitcase Brass, the platform party proceeded to the stage and the event began. Following opening remarks by emcee Richard Moorhouse (Trust Executive Director), the platform party brought greetings.

The platform party included: The Honourable Madeleine Meilleur, Ontario Minister of Culture; Wayne Kelly, Plaque Program Coordinator for the Foundation; Allan Gotlieb, Foundation Chairman; Richard Mortimer, General Manager of the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre; Richard Alway, Chairman of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (and former Chairman of the Foundation); Derek Waite, President of the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre Volunteers; and Sandra Shamas, performer.

Featured at the event was the unveiling of the provincial plaques commemorating the theatres on the occasion of their 90^th anniversary. In addition, Richard Mortimer presented a framed volunteer recognition certificate to the President of the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre Volunteers, Derek Waite. Richard Mortimer also read a number of quotes from celebrities who have, over the years, performed on the Elgin and Winter Garden stages. The event concluded with a ceremonial cake cutting and an impromptu singing of Happy Birthday.

Following the speeches and presentations, guests made their way up to the Cascading Lounges to enjoy cake and refreshments and more entertainment by Suitcase Brass. Open-house tours were also available to all guests following the reception.