SOTEC News

Welcome to Gryphons Read!

Gryphons Read is a tradition at the University of Guelph, started by the well-known and well-loved author and U of G faculty, Lawrence Hill. Each year, a book that explores diverse identities and lived experiences, and is authored by a Canadian writer, is selected to be shared and read by the campus community. Gryphons Read hosts the author on campus for a few days in late September where they meet with students, staff, faculty, and community members in various classes and public events.

Congratulations to SETS faculty member, Canisia Lubrin, on the launch of her newest book, Code Noir. Professor Lubrin was recently featured on the CBC's The Next Chapter!

Production from university’s School of English and Theatre Studies aims to spur positive climate action

Dr. Madhur Anand, adjunct professor in the School of English and Theatre Studies, is one of 16 writers chosen for the 2024 Best Canadian Stories anthology.  

Omar El Akkad
What Strange Paradise

Public Talk: Tuesday, September 26th @ 7 PM
Robert Whitelaw Room, 2^nd Floor, McLaughlin Library

Register for this public event on Eventbrite!

U of G’s annual common reading project – Gryphons Read – celebrates its seventh iteration. This year’s novel is What Strange Paradise, by Egyptian-Canadian author and journalist, Omar El Akkad. It is the story of two children finding their way through a hostile world. But it is also a story of empathy and indifference, of hope and despair – and about the way each of those things can blind us to reality.

Led by Associate Professor Kimberley McLeod, the University of Guelph collaborates with Our Food Future to present "Future Food Visions." Crafted by College of Arts Theatre students, this series of immersive audio experiences sheds light on Guelph’s food history and tackles food insecurity.

The College of Arts is beaming with pride as its theatre graduate, Kimberley Rampersad, earns accolades for her direction of King Lear at the prestigious Stratford Festival. Rampersad's production has received glowing reviews, with critics praising her skillful portrayal of the classic tragedy's themes. Running until October 29th, this remarkable rendition of King Lear promises a captivating theatrical experience. Don't miss the chance to witness Rampersad's talent in action at Stratford!

The French translation of a novel by Lawrence Hill, creative writing professor in the School of English and Theatre Studies in the College of Arts, has been recognized with a literary prize in France. 

Dr. Ajay Heble, faculty member in the School of English and Theatre Studies as well as the founding director of U of G's International Institute for Critical Improvisation has been awarded a 2023 Killam Prize, among the most distinguished research awards in Canada. 

To read more about this incredible achievement, read the U of G's news release.

Congratulations, Dr. Heble!

Location: Arts Performance Theatre, Alumni Walk MacKinnon Building Guelph

Evening Performances: November 17, 18, 19 @7:30pm

Matinee Performance: November 19 @2pm

Director: Kim McLeod

Scenography: Troy Hourie & THST 3&4 Production Students