Karen Kain

“It's a time to reflect and appreciate all the contributions that others have made to my career and my life. My vision is nothing that hasn't been gleaned or understood from watching and working with so many people I admire before me.”

“Canadians are very proud of me, of my career.”

“Friday night is our date night. We really carve out time for each other.”

“When I grow up I am going to be a ballerina. I will be in Giselle. It will be so much fun being a ballerina.”

“Talent will only take you so far, and it is your ability to feel the music and explore a movement that will bring you the greatest pleasure in dance.”

“I know there are going to be big challenges financially, but I'm excited artistically. I think that if the experience is better artistically, then we have more hope in the future.”

“Dancers, like all performing artists, like nothing better than to be challenged.”

“In my life, there have always been people who guided my path, towards the school, towards this company. I didn't know about any of it. I didn't have a plan. It's good fortune and generosity from other people that have given me all I have today.”

“Treasure the things about you that make you different and unique.”

“Surround yourself with people who provide you with support and love and remember to give back as much as you can in return.”

“It's a different era. Our job now is to show leadership and vision and to help the next generation of artists.”

“I know how demanding the process of creation is.”

“Know that there is so much more to you than your body. It's not just about perfecting the steps; you must trust your instincts to tell deep, emotional stories through the steps that you are performing.”

“We have a renewed energy and vigor in our supporters and we are no longer so frightened about the future.”

“There's nothing like the force and challenge of a new ballet to galvanize everyone involved in bringing it to life.”

“The arts are an integral part of the city's economic progress.”

“I want to leave this company in the best possible shape.”

“Like everyone else, I want to go on dancing forever, but I know the day is going to come when I will have to be doing something else.”

“Even if I had nothing to do with the Canada Council, I'd be praying for it.”

“I really felt it was time for a new vision.”