Brian McKay - A Celebration of Life

Honouring Brian McKay: A Canadian Theatre Legend

Dear friends, colleagues, and fellow theatre enthusiasts, my name is Stephen Patterson, a close friend and professional colleague of the late Brian McKay.

On February 6th, 2020, the Canadian theatre community lost one of its shining stars - our beloved friend and colleague, Brian McKay. Brian fought valiantly against a rare and aggressive neurological disorder known as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). As always, he remained the passionate, "larger than life" personality that everyone blessed to know him adored. Brian enjoyed a hugely successful career that brought him to stages across North America (including Broadway), the United Kingdom and Japan. Over the decades, his soaring voice was frequently featured on CBC television and in numerous symphony orchestra programs.

Brian was not just an exceptional father, singer, actor, writer, director and friend; he was a true pioneer in our theatre community. His talent, charisma, and unwavering dedication to his craft earned him a special place in the hearts of many. He was a man whose laughter was infectious, whose stories were legendary, and whose presence lit up every room he entered. He was a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to countless aspiring artists. Many of us were fortunate to work alongside him, sharing the stage, the laughter, and the unforgettable moments that define a life in the theatre.

Brian and I shared a bond that transcended the stage. We laughed, we told stories, and we journeyed together to countless shows across the US and Perth County! Those car rides, filled with Brian's rich tales, became the soundtrack of our friendship. In fact, I knew Brian's stories so well that I could recite them as my own or finish them before he did, just to make him laugh.

One of my many cherished memories is how Brian would break into the song from his one-man show Come by the Hills with that sudden thick Scottish accent in his beautiful falsetto voice. It was a moment of pure magic and a memory that still makes me smile today. Truth be told, I used to tease Brian with my own version now and again with an even thicker Scottish accent…..but not even close to his authenticity!

Why We Need Your Help

In March 2020, we had planned to come together to celebrate Brian's remarkable life and contributions to the Canadian entertainment industry. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our plans, and we had to postpone the celebration indefinitely. Now, in September 2023, we believe the time is right to pay our respects properly and to honour Brian in the way he so deserves.

The Dedication: An Invitation

On September 25th, 2023, from 1:30-4:00 p.m., we are gathering to dedicate a memorial bench on Tom Patterson Island in Stratford, Ontario, in Brian's memory. This serene location was chosen by Sheri and Kehgan because it provides a beautiful view of the Avon River allowing those who visit to reflect and remember Brian in a peaceful and tranquil environment.

Following the island dedication, we invite you to join us at the Stratford Festival Paul D. Fleck Marquee for a celebration of life for our friend Brian where we will honour Brian's memory and celebrate the incredible impact he had on our lives and the Canadian theatre community. Your donation will allow us to make this tribute a fitting testament to his life.

Should you be able to join us at the Marquee for the celebration of life, RSVP by clicking on this EventBrite link. Capacity is limited.

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/celebration-of-life-for-brian-mckay-tickets-705999311947?aff=oddtdtcreator

Our Goal

To make this dedication and celebration a reality, we are launching this GoFundMe campaign. We aim to cover the costs associated with the memorial bench and the celebration event.

Any funds raised beyond our goal will be donated in Brian’s name to PAL (Performing Arts Lodge) where Brian lived at one point, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations of theatre artists.

Share This Campaign

Please share this campaign link with your friends, family, and anyone who had the privilege of knowing Brian. Let's ensure that his memory shines as brightly as his talent did on stage.

Thank you for your consideration and for helping us celebrate the life of a true Canadian theatre legend, Brian McKay.