So the director of the small but award-winning Circlesnake Productions was inspired to help Syrian refugees experience Canadian culture by offering free tickets to his company’s three upcoming productions. Resources, however, are very limited within smaller companies like the Theatre Centre, which is also participating in the free ticket program. But the company is also piloting the Newcomer Initiative, a training program within its café starting in November. It’s inspired by the Newcomer Kitchen at The Depanneur, a catering service that uses food prepared in the restaurant’s kitchen during off-hours by Syrian newcomers. But Toller was touched by the Canada Council program and heartened that the arts haven’t been forgotten in Canada’s efforts to welcome Syrian refugees.

Source: thestar September 26, 2016 12:56 UTC