Greeting from Nikolaj Harris, Danish Ambassador to Canada

It is a great pleasure to see Babette’s Feast come to life here in Canada — one of Danish author Karen Blixen’s most beloved stories, and one that continues to speak to audiences around the world. Though written more than seventy years ago, its message of generosity, openness, and shared humanity remains as relevant today as ever.

In the original story of Babette, a French refugee finds a new home in a small Norwegian village, in the Oscar winning film from 1987, the setting is moved to coastal Denmark. This beautifully captures the idea that hospitality and understanding can cross any border. Her famous feast does more than delight the senses — it brings people together, bridging differences through the simple yet profound act of sharing a meal.

new ideas, new flavours, and new perspectives — strengthens the fabric of our societies

That spirit of connection resonates deeply with the friendship between Denmark and Canada. Our countries are neighbours in the north, with a recent land border, and in addition to geography, we have much common ground: a belief in openness, democracy, equality, and the value of community. Whether in politics, culture, or cuisine, we both understand that collaboration and curiosity enrich us all.

Since Karen Blixen’s time, Denmark has undergone a remarkable culinary transformation. Once known mainly for its simple, traditional fare, Danish cuisine has flourished through a spirit of openness and curiosity, evolving into a New Nordic Cuisine. At its heart, this evolution reflects the same spirit that Babette brought to her feast — generosity, creativity, and the belief that we grow richer when we welcome new ideas to the table.

Whether in politics, culture, or cuisine, we both understand that collaboration and curiosity enrich us all.

Here in Canada, where cultures and cuisines from every corner of the world meet, Babette’s Feast feels particularly fitting. It reminds us that openness to others — to new ideas, new flavours, and new perspectives — strengthens the fabric of our societies.

As you enjoy this performance, I hope you will be inspired not only by Blixen’s timeless storytelling, but also by the enduring values that Denmark and Canada hold in common.

Bon appétit, velbekomme, and thank you for joining us in celebrating this beautiful story — one that speaks to all of us.

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Nikolaj Harris is Denmark's Ambassador to Canada