The 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War is almost upon us. As Canadians reflect on a time that many believe forged the nation, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) is presenting a unusual way to remember the the War to end all wars in Confederation Park.
If you were walking by the park in the evening this weekend you would have seen some glowing “moon” balls shimmering among the trees of the park which is located between the National Arts Centre and Ottawa City Hall, bounded by Elgin Street and Laurier Avenue.
The presentation is called The Edge of Peace and it will run until Nov. 11.
The Edge of Peace aims to present military history and stories by combining old and new artistic technologies.
It is a multi-media exhibit consisting of several luminous spheres of varying sizes. The spheres form what is being called a moonGARDEN. A 14-minute ‘story’ is told in the garden using images, light and shadow and music. The exhibit runs daily from dusk until 10:30 p.m.
Visitors can share their thoughts and any messages about remembrance by texting to what is being called the Speak Tree, which is a virtual, 3-D tree that will be displayed on one of the spheres. You don’t have to be in Confederation Park to send your message. Just text 438-800-0471. The messages will also appear on a Canada Remembers Facebook page.
The production touches on themes and issues related to the 100th anniversary of the final battles of the war known as the 100 Days and the Armistice on Nov. 11. The Edge of Peace was created by Lucion Media. The award-winning playwright and novelist Kent Stetson wrote the script with music by Nick Carpenter.
