Finally! After 59 years of existence, the stars are aligning for the Théâtre français de Toronto, which today, Friday, July 31, held its official groundbreaking ceremony, marking the start of construction of a custom-built, modern theatre worthy of an audience — both adult and school — that has continued to grow over the years.

The event took place in the presence of Mayor Olivia Chow, City Councillor Paula Fletcher, as well as representatives from developers Woodbourne and Neighbourhood Community Homes.

Located on Danforth Avenue, just steps from Donlands subway station, this theatre will become an anchor for Francophone artists and culture in Canada's largest city.

“This moment, though it may seem sudden, is the result of a dream carried for several decades. Several generations of artistic and administrative directors, staff members, board members, donors, and volunteers have worked to keep this dream alive: to exist permanently, with a place of our own. Today it falls to the current generation to have the honour — and the responsibility — of carrying this dream through to its realization, by breaking this first ground. But it does not forget all those who, before it, worked to make this day possible.” — Karine Ricard and Ghislain Caron

TfT warmly thanks City Councillor Paula Fletcher as well as Toronto City Council, who has supported this project since its earliest days and without whom it could not have come to be. TfT also wishes to thank the Department of Canadian Heritage (PCH) and its minister, the Honourable Marc Miller, whose support helped fund a first phase of the project's financing. This support reflects the fact that this theatre is fully part of building and preserving Canada's cultural heritage. TfT also wishes to highlight the valuable collaboration of Woodbourne, the project's real estate partner, KPMB Architects, whose architectural expertise will give shape to this new venue, and Charcoalblue, theatre design and acoustics consultants.

But breaking ground is only the beginning. Many more milestones will follow before the building rises. It will take the support of the whole community, since a project of this scale and historic significance cannot be achieved without collective backing. A fundraising campaign will soon be launched, allowing TfT's friends, theatre lovers, and champions of French-language expression to contribute to the construction of this venue and become part of its history.

TfT looks forward to keeping you updated periodically on the project's progress, documenting key construction milestones, and sharing the passion that drives it every day in bringing this Franco-Ontarian dream to life.

Visit theatrefrancais.com.