Embracing the enduring traditions of the legacy inherited by Laurier Senior High School

Among the traditions that strongly persist is the opening night mass celebrated by retired Chaplain Father Alan Cox for the cast, crew, and advisors, assembled in the school chapel just a couple of hours before the curtain rises. "Year after year, numerous young people approach the advisors to request the mass, so with little fanfare and in the peace and tranquility of the chapel which has welcomed thousands of young people in the past, we all gather in a unity of purpose that is over 2000 years old," Alan De Souza explains, matter-of-factly, adding that the mass is one of the most, if not the most compelling moment of the entire fashion show experience.

"Unlike the many other dimensions of the production at which attendance is compulsory, participation in the mass is voluntary, but we are always extremely gratified at the large numbers that join together in this special manifestation of prayerful silence, and is this not a fitting prelude to the dash, dazzle, and delight that these young people brought to the stage in three nights of a glamorous Show With Fashion?" Alan De Souza asked, knowing fully well that the answer could be nothing other than a resounding Yes. (J.F.)