Cranbrook鈥檚 Brent Carver, one of Canada鈥檚 greatest stage actors, has passed away.
Carver鈥檚 family shared the news on Thursday, August 6, that he had passed away at home.
鈥淥ur family is sharing news of Brent Carver鈥檚 passing at home in Cranbrook, B.C., his birthplace and favourite place on Earth,鈥� the family wrote in a release.
鈥淏lessed with many talents and a natural love of theatre, Brent was always known as a first-class performer, unique in the presentation of his craft, delighting audiences through film, TV, stage and concert performances.
鈥淎n impressive record, dating back to 1972, of awards, solo shows, collaborations with musicians, Broadway and West End shows and memorable performances at theatres across Canada and the United States culminated in a Governor General鈥檚 Performing Arts Award For Lifetime Artistic Achievement in 2014 鈥� a proud moment for our entire family.
鈥淏ut Brent, in his humble fashion, will be remembered as the kind, gentle and gifted man he was, with the deepest love as a true friend and family member.
鈥淗is love of performing was matched only by his zest for life and lifetime devotion to family, friends and treasured pets.
鈥淭hank you to the performing arts community for embracing our Brent and helping him fulfill his dreams with joy in his heart. Brent will be missed.鈥�
A Mount Baker Secondary School graduate, Carver was recognized as one of Canada鈥檚 most versatile actors.
鈥淏rent Carver is known for the sensitivity, emotional honesty and charisma he brings to every role, from Shakespeare classics to new Canadian works, and from intimate cabaret performances to blockbuster musicals,鈥� the Governor General鈥檚 Performing Arts Awards website described him, when his lifetime achievement award was announced. 鈥淚n a career spanning over 40 years he has dazzled audiences and critics across Canada, the United States and the UK.鈥�
Toronto was been Carver鈥檚 home for many years, but his roots in Cranbrook were deep. He told the Townsman in 2014 how he appreciated the vibrancy of the local theatrical communities, students and adults. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a vibrant (acting) community, with lots of passion.鈥�
鈥� More to come
