• A Festival of Ideas
  • January 26 - 29, 2023
  • Guelph

Patricia Cano

Patricia Cano was born in Sudbury, ON where she grew up in a Peruvian household. Upon graduating from University of Toronto in Theatre and Spanish Literature, Patricia spent five years working in Paris (France) with the world-renowned theatre company Le Théâtre du soleil, during which time she was sent to Seoul (South Korea) for three months to study traditional South Korean folk singing and drumming. After leaving the French company, Patricia spent 7 months in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) listening, playing, singing and feeling her way through the exceptional Carioca music scene!

In 2009, Patricia launched her singing career here at home with her debut album called “This is the New World”, co-created — in four languages — with her Brazilian musical partner, Carlos Bernardo. This album won “Best Album — Solo artist” at the NOMFA 2011 (North Ontario Music & Film Award Conference).

Another very important musical influence in Patricia’s artistic career is Tomson Highway, Canada’s premiere Cree playwright and composer. Since 2001, Patricia has toured the world alongside Tomson Highway, singing and performing his songs and stories in a one-woman Cree cabaret. From Montreal to Rio de Janeiro to Prague and beyond, this collaboration continues today.