Nathalie Atkinson of The Ottawa Citizen writes: One of Howard Shore’s earliest performed compositions was the music for Doug Henning’s groundbreaking live magic show, directed by Ivan Reitman. It had a nearly five-year run on Broadway but was first staged at Toronto’s Royal Alexandra Theatre in 1973.

“How did you know about that?” Shore asks in disbelief. I explain that the credit leads his Canadian bio, which also includes Grammy, Golden Globe and Academy awards and which this weekend will be lengthened by the addition of a Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement. Shore, 64, is one of six recipients this year, with others who include actor William Shatner and dancer-choreographer Margie Gillis. The honourees will receive their awards Friday in a ceremony at Rideau Hall, and attend a gala at the National Arts Centre on Saturday hosted by actor Colm Feore. The evening includes performances in tribute to each winner. More..