This review first appeared in the Winter 2009 Issue of CSA Voices.
The Speech and Stuttering institute paid tribute to Barbara Meissner Fishbein with a gala event in November at the Eglinton Grand Theatre in Toronto. The occasion was to remember a well loved supporter of the Speech and Stuttering Institute and to raise money for a new treatment room at the facility – a room that will be named after her.
Called Speaking of Shakespeare, the event featured multidisciplinary artists showcasing their talents with the common theme of Shakespeare in mind. Acclaimed singers, dancers, rappers, actors and painters developed unique and original presentations to share at this special event.
The producer of Speaking of Shakespeare, Krystal Kiran Garib, is a Canadian-born actress, singer and dancer. Krystal grew up with the challenge of a stutter and is grateful for an opportunity to give back to this cause. Her newest venture is her production compan, the “House of Kiran”, which is currently producing a contemporary production of a Chorus Line.
Barbara was a much beloved Speech Language Pathologist and a longtime supporter of The Speech & Stuttering Institute. Barbara inspired a sense of passion in her colleagues and clients. She was a member of the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO) where she also served as Director of Professional Practise. She helped to enhance and improve the practise of speech-language pathology, particularly in developing preferred practise guidelines.
The event featured an elegant dessert/ cocktail reception and showcased a lineup of performers all coordinating their talents with a Shakespearian theme. “Shakespeare was arguably one of the most important ‘communicators’ ever,” said Dr. Robert Kroll, Executive Director of The Speech & Stuttering Institute. “We help people to communicate, so it seemed fitting to feature Shakespeare’s works at our event.” Dancers, singers, rappers and actors will collaborate to celebrate the gift of communication, while paying tribute to the legacy of a wonderful professional in our community. The event was well attended and enjoyed by all.
For more information about Krystal Garib, and to watch a video of her speaking about her involvement with this event, you can go to her website, http://www.krystalgarib.net/