Press Release
Monday, January 30, 2023
Université de Moncton Saddened by Death of Viola Léger, Bright Star of the Artistic World
It is with deep sadness that the Université de Moncton learned of the death of Viola Léger, a beloved figure in Acadian theatre.
Léger introduced Acadie to the world through her masterful portrayal of the character of La Sagouine, a famous work of Antonine Maillet, for nearly 50 years.
“We will remember Viola Léger as an artist of immense talent who devoted herself generously and unreservedly to the growth of her art and her Acadie. She is a star who will continue to inspire us,” said Université de Moncton Chancellor Louise Imbeault.
“She was a great actress and an excellent ambassador for Acadie and the entire Francophonie,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Denis Prud'homme. “Her commitment to our university was remarkable. We are grateful for her contribution to the drama program through the Fonds de bourses Viola Léger.”
In 2016, Léger established the Fonds de bourse Viola Léger for students in the drama program at the Université de Moncton.
The university is privileged to hold some of her archives at the Centre d'études acadiennes Anselme-Chiasson. The Fonds Viola Léger reflects her personal and professional life and, more generally, the evolution of theatre in Acadie.
This Massachusetts-born teacher of Acadian origin became a figurehead of Acadian culture. She was one of the first graduates of the Université de Moncton's Bachelor of Arts program in 1964. She also graduated with a degree in education in 1971. Viola Léger was the first female graduate to be awarded the Alumnus of the Year (Order of Merit) by the AlUMni of the Université de Moncton in 1974. In 1976, the institution awarded her an honorary Doctor of Letters degree. A generous benefactor, she is also a Fellow of the Order of Regents of the Université de Moncton.
Flags are now at half-mast on all three campuses for one week. They will also be lowered on the day of the funeral.
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