June has been a remarkable month for Vancouver's Christopher Gaze. First, his memoir The Road to Bard: A Legacy of Shakespeare on Canada's West Coast was released. Then, Bard on the Beach, the Shakespeare festival he founded, launched its 37th season. To top it off, the 74-year-old native of Surrey, England, has been awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to British arts and culture in Canada.
"It is a wonderful honour. I'm so grateful," said Gaze, who serves as artistic director at Bard on the Beach. "It really has been a month I will remember."
A Surprise Announcement
The honour was announced on June 12 as part of The King's Birthday Honours, 2026 Overseas and International List. Gaze learned about the MBE six weeks prior but was required to keep it confidential until the official publication. He recalled receiving the call from British consul general Thomas Codrington.
"I said: 'What did you say?'" Gaze recounted. "I was thrilled and verklempt. I couldn't speak because the emotion got hold of me. It's an honour I never could have imagined."
The annual King's Birthday Honours list recognizes exceptional achievements and contributions to British society. This year, 1,182 individuals were included.
A Legacy of Shakespeare
Gaze, who received the Order of B.C. in 2012, has dedicated decades to bringing Shakespeare to the West Coast. After the list was published in the U.K., he heard from friends in England. One old school chum sent a cheeky message: "What can one say. We're not worthy of knowing you, Gazey. We hope you may have to come to London to receive this honour, and we can come and peer through the railings of Buckingham Palace in hopes of seeing such a personage."
Investiture Plans
MBE recipients, 27 of them this year, can choose to receive the silver cross-shaped medal locally or travel to London for an investiture ceremony at a royal palace, typically Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle. King Charles or a senior royal will present the awards next year. Gaze did not hesitate when asked about his preference.
"Oh, I'm going," he said. "I couldn't imagine not going." He added that a new, very smart suit will be tailored for the occasion.
Gaze's contributions to Vancouver's cultural scene remain unparalleled, and this latest recognition cements his legacy as a pillar of the arts community.
