SPEAKER’S GUIDEpresented by the

132ND CONVERSAZIONE

Co-chairsANTHONY MARCHESE

RAAJAN AERY

PATRICK ANDISON

FinanceALESSANDRA HARKNESS

Logistics & Event ManagementSAM KOKONIS

Public Relations & MarketingSARAH HARRISON

Alumni & Development RelationsCELINE COLLIS

Executive

Sponsorship COURTENAY FIELD

Food & DrinkMARCUS TUTERT

Decorations SIMONE GARCIA

BETHANY PILE

SOFIA JELOVAC

First Year RepresentativesNICK ALLARD

LEILA MARTIN

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Speaker’s Introduction

There was a time when the Conversat ball was the highlight of Toronto’s social calendar. A time before Tinder and Facebook, when a young white man from a prominent family’s only hope for sowing his well-bred oats was receiving an invitation by the Speaker of the Trinity College Literary Institute to Trinity’s annual Conversazione. He would customarily invite a lady, who, in accordance with time honored tradition and the comically restrictive set of rules that came with being a lady of good breeding, was not allowed to say no. Add some good old quasi-Anglo sexual repression, and a dash of patriarchy, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a sure thing. Those times, mercifully, have passed. Still, aside from all the open misogyny and racism, the time did have a certain charm about it. Imagine Mad Men, only everyone is uglier and more Canadian. Also, one assumes, mutton chops. And so, in keeping with our College’s long tradition of doing stuff because one time some old white people did it, I bring you a thing that old white people did that was actually pretty cool: the Speaker’s guide to Conversazione.

FELLOW MEMBERS OF COLLEGE,

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In it you will find tips and tricks and other assorted proverbial baubles and trinkets about everything Conversat-related, from tips on dress shopping to a helpful guide to Conversat traditions, and from ideas for where to take your date to tuxedo rentals, should you be thusly sartorially inclined. There may even be a message in there from his Un-Holiness, Trinity’s very own Desmond Tutu, or perhaps Arnaud Amalric, Pierre Kochel. And yes, gentlemen (and also people who are men but not gentle, gentle but not men, and yes, even those who consider themselves neither gentle nor men, but who still like to wear ties), before you ask, there is included herein a handy guide on how to tie that most damnable of 17th century Croatian sartorial accoutrements, the tie. The fine people who wrote this guide have done a great job, so take it all in and enjoy, Fellow Members of College, because now that the 21st century has arrived and your dates actually have to like you, you fuckers are going to need all the help you can get.

FEROS CULTUS VOCE FORMARE

ANDREW ILKAY, SPEAKER OF THE LIT

Speaker’s Guide

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Conversazione Week Schedule

A staple of the week, your Female Head of Arts, Victoria Reedman, in conjunction with Conversazione will host a movie night in the Whitaker common room. We will kick the week off with one of the most critically acclaimed heart-warming feature films of 2014 – The Fault in our Stars. Check our Facebook page for details about the film and accompanying snacks and refreshments.

SundayMOVIE NIGHT IN THE COMMON ROOM – 9PM – WHITAKER HOUSE

Join us for an epic Pictionary tournament in the JCR that will allow you to show off your inner Van Gogh. In the spirit of friendly competition, teams will be pitted against one another in a battle of quills and minds. Who will claim top prize and bragging rights around college? Don’t miss your chance to win some of these highly coveted prizes.

MondayTHE GREAT PICTIONARY TOURNAMENT – 8PM – JCR

What better way to relax with your date or a group of friends than by listening to the awe inspiring talents of your peers? Under a starlit Seeley Hall Trinity will come together to watch and listen to the amazing musical and artistic talents of our community. Interested in being one of the stars of the evening? Contact Sam Kokonis to reserve your spot now!

TuesdayCONVERSAT COFFEE HOUSE – 8PM – SEELEY HALL

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Come join us for our signature High Table on Wednesday evening. We have invited handful of select distinguished alumni to join us, whom we hope will share their memories of Conversazione traditions from the past. The dinner will feature elegant decorations, elevated food and delicious desserts. It may also feature a glass of wine or two for those lucky enough to be 19 years of age. Check our Facebook Page for updated menu information and details about our alumni guests.

WednesdayCONVERSAT HIGHTABLE DINNER – 6:30PM – STRACHAN HALL

What better way to end high table than with a cool refreshing glass of champagne or sparkling juice? Come join the Conversazione Committee and the Trinity College Tasting Society for a little fun after dinner, and have yourself beverage before sitting down to enjoy the Lit debate. Check our Facebook event for the location and further details.

CHAMPAGNE TASTING – 8:00PM – LOCATION TBA

Lit debates bring out the brightest stars at Trinity. Watch the shining lights of the Conversazione committee strive to deliver some of the darkest and funniest speeches of the year around a topic of astronomical greatness. This year’s resolution is, “Be It Resolved That when we said ‘give ear to us,’ that’s not what we meant.” Stay tuned to Facebook for more information about the featured debaters and their talents.

THE LIT DEBATE – 9:00PM – JCR

Speaker’s Guide

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A Conversat tradition that is not to be missed. Come out and watch the first years test their skills against the undefeated upper year greats. Stars will be born under the bright lights of the stadium as Trinity students are treated to the ‘touch’ football match of the year. Rumour has it the upper year team will be captained by none other than the QBeast herself, your Female Head of College.

ThursdayCONVERSAT BOWL – 3PM – VARSITY DOME

A tradition of old that we can’t wait to bring back. Join us on a trip to Nathan Phillips Square to skate under the light of the stars on a crisp winter evening at City Hall. We plan to end the evening with a pit stop at a pub where students can warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee (liqueur optional). The Conversazione committee in conjunction with SHAA will be subsidizing skate rentals and some après skate food and beverages. Check our Facebook page for more details about the event and our evenings bar selection.

What better time of year to go for dinner then during Winterlicious? As delightful a treat for the taste buds as it is easy on the wallet. Turn the page for some great restaurant recommendations, and promotional support for having the perfect dinner off campus. Choosing to ditch the date for Conversazione? No problem – check our Facebook page for details about Singles Night In and Singles Night Out brought to you by your Student Heads.

FridayDATE NIGHT

SKATING UNDER THE STARS – 7:00PM – THE QUAD

THE OFFICIAL DATE NIGHT AFTER PARTY – 10:00PM – FAMOSO ON BLOOR

Stop by Famoso after your date or singles night for the official after party. The event will feature both drink specials and pizza, what could possibly go wrong. Live mixing by DJ Raudy will be sure to keep the party rocking until after midnight, and ensure you are in the party mode before Saturday.

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We all might look a little silly if we got dressed up in our formal attire and sat down to have a Chartwells meal in the Buttery. More importantly, this is your chance to show your date that despite how silly your dance moves may prove to be later that evening that you are deep down a civilized and warm-hearted human being. Treat your friends or that special someone to a delicious meal and who knows they may treat you to a dance later that night.

SaturdaySECOND DATE NIGHT

To our graduating 1T5s the college wishes to thank you for your time here and congratulate you on surviving undergraduate life at the University of Toronto. Enjoy your frivolities and drink the bar dry. We will provide you with no more than a single phrase of caution, while the Conversazione decorations promise to be stunning and unforgettable they will be incredibly hard to witness from a Trinity bathroom floor.

The culminating event of the week and a crown jewel in the Trinity social calendar. Witness a stunningly transformed Strachan Hall lit up by stars in the sky and filled with the music of a swinging Big Band. The band will play all the greatest tracks from decades gone by until the clock strikes midnight and the DJ takes over, ensuring the dance floor stays packed until 2am. There is not much left to say that we wouldn’t rather show you in person. Don’t miss out.

FOURTH YEAR BAR – 9:00PM – SEELEY HALL

THE 132ND CONVERSAZIONE – 10:00PM – STRACHAN HALL

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Unforgettable Date Ideas

Let’s be honest with ourselves, the prospect of a first date with a person who may or may not be a total stranger can be an intimidating thought. Perhaps you’re anxious to impress, or eager to spend a fun night bonding with a new friend. More than anything, you just want to avoid those long awkward pauses which can only seem to be filled by commenting on the décor, the food, or just how happy you are that you chose Trin over Vic. Or maybe you’ve been together forever, and you’re looking to try something a little different the evening before Conversat. No matter the situation, coming up with the perfect date idea can be a totally unnecessary source of stress. Luckily for you, your Conversazione executive put their heads together to come up with some of the best date ideas the city of Toronto has to offer!

If it’s a night of romance you’re after, we have you covered. A romantic stroll around Yorkville is just a short distance away, and boasts a variety of both dinner and dessert options. If it gets a little too cold outside, head over to Ciao Wine Bar. A traditional hit with the Trin crowd, Ciao has an upscale atmosphere and delicious Italian food. If you’re looking for a cozier option, Trattoria Nervosa serves similarly tasty Italian fare in a beautifully renovated house in the center of Yorkville. If you’re more of a dessert first person, both Carole’s Cheesecake and MoRoCo Chocolate stay open late and offer a variety of delectable desserts at reasonable prices. Don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate to warm you up during your stroll!

None of these options satisfied your inner Casablanca? If your definition of romance also includes absolute extravagance, then The Rooftop Lounge at the Park Hyatt is the place to go. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails while overlooking the city, in a beautiful, heated patio atop the hotel. Be prepared, this option is certainly not budget friendly but does literally deliver on the promise of a starry night.

Then again, maybe romance isn’t your style? Not to worry, the city offers a plethora of more adventurous options. Kensington Market is a bit of a trek from College and Spadina, but is a great option if you want to spend several hours popping in and out of bakeries and vintage shops. If you’re looking for an on-the-go meal, grab a sandwich from Blackbird Baking Co. (home of the best bread in the city!). But if a sit down meal is more your style, try Agave Y Aguacate on Baldwin St just outside of Kensington. Serving up incredibly unique Mexican tapas, Agave books up quickly so make sure to reserve a table in advance. Although farther from Trin, the St Lawrence Market and the Distillery District offer similar appeal in terms of their festive winter atmosphere and wide variety of food and shopping options. If you’re looking to venture outside your comfort zone and the Trin bubble entirely, try dining in the dark at O.Noir Toronto. At $40/person, you can dine on your choice of a 3-course meal entirely in the dark!

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If you’re looking for a more casual date idea, there are plenty of fun and interesting places within walking distance from Trinity. Is your date an aspiring history major? The Royal Ontario Museum has a special price on Friday nights ($9 for students) and is open until 8:30pm. If your date is a music lover, the UofT Symphony Orchestra is playing a show on campus on Friday, February 6th, with tickets starting at only $10. How many times have you walked past the Bata Shoe Museum and promised yourself you would check it out before the end of the year? The Museum has over 1,000 shoes and shoe related artifacts on display at any given time, and is open until 5pm daily (8pm on Saturdays). Tickets are $8 for students. Is your date an aspiring artist/art lover? The Art Gallery of Ontario is also within walking distance from Trinity. It’s open until 5:30pm on Fridays, and costs $11 per person. If you’re taking a film buff to Conversazione, why not take them to a screening at the Bloor Hot Docs cinema? Tickets are $10, and you’re sure to see a great film. Of course, if you’d like more selection, both the Scotiabank Theatre and the Varsity Cinema are safe bets, with tickets priced at $13. If you’re willing to venture a bit further out of the Trin bubble, a tour of the Steamwhistle Brewery is another fun idea. Tours run every half hour from 12-5pm for just $10 per person (if you want to partake in the beer tasting you’ll have to be of legal age, but anyone can take the tour). If you’re up for some laughs, take your date to a comedy club such as The Second City ($30 tickets) or Bad Dog Theatre Company ($10 for students).

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If you and your friends are all taking dates, group dates can be another fun idea! Snakes and Lattes is a popular place for groups of 6 or less. For just $5, you can enjoy choosing from a huge selection of board games, and battle it out with your friends! With tons of food and drink options, you’ll be sure to have a great time. Is everyone in your group legal? Why not venture down to Snakes and Lagers instead, with the same variety of games, only with alcohol instead of coffee! Both are within walking distance from Trinity. If you’re up for some bowling, The Ballroom has lanes for $35/hour before 5pm and $65 after 5pm on Fridays, with a maximum of 8 people per lane. Furthest from campus is SpiN, a ping pong bar that can accommodate groups of any size. Rates for a table are $10/half hour before 5pm and $17/half hour after 5pm. Both The Ballroom and SpiN are all-ages before 9pm!

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Message from the Bishop

“Ah con-ver-sa-zi-o-ne… it must be Italian!” But Van Gogh was from Holland. An odd combination? Absolutely not. Because on a Starry Night, when the moon hits your eye, we call that amoré, and I swear to Strachan that you will love this event.

Conversat, think of Saints Ball, but in February and a little more formal – either that or the winter weather has some guys convinced that they’re penguins… But you can expect even more from the 132nd Conversazione. For an event that’s almost as old as the College itself, the organizers have consulted the archives, Adrienne Clarkson’s Memoir, Strachan’s diary, but definitely NOT the Bible, so that we can return to some of the oldest roots of Trinity’s family tree.

Only Trinity College would break tradition by re-establishing even older ones, such as the Speaker’s Guide that’s in your hands right now – Don’t crease the pages, it’s an artifact! This guide will tell you exactly everything you need to know about the 132nd Conversazione, but if you want to take my divine word for it, here’s what you can expect:

Prepare yourself for a night amongst the stars, and by that I mean dining with some of Trinity’s illustrious alumni who will be

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welcomed back to relive the glory days, when they too partied with just as much flare as we do now. If you miss the chance to enter their orbit, don’t be crestfallen, the Skyy Vodka will certainly raise your spirits, though perhaps it will also cloud your judgment…

You can’t rush art, and certainly not a Starry Night, but instead of splashing it on canvas, we’ll be burning the midnight oil so you can dance until the red light of dawn (not to be confused with Amsterdam’s Red Light District). In keeping with Italian tradition, any spare oil will be used to make the 132nd Conversazione extra slick. There will be goodfellas, and prima donnas, and if that doesn’t suit your style, there’s nothing wrong with going Dutch! Just don’t bring your clogs to the dance…

Picture an unsuccessful 132nd Conversazione, well, there’s a picture no artist can paint. If Van Gogh were alive today, he’d say, “I would love to go to Conversat! Wooden shoe?” Go! Van Gogh!

SINCERELY,

HIS UNHOLINESS THE 99TH BISHOP OF TRINITY COLLEGE

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Conversat Timeline

It takes only a minimal amount of intuition to understand that today’s Conversat must be largely different than Conversats passed. With many changes in social norms since the 1860s, when Conversat is believed to have started, it is hard to picture how Conversat has transformed into the event it is today. Luckily for you, dear reader, the 132nd Conversazione is glad to walk you through that process.

Documented rumors suggest that the first ever Conversazione took place in 1869. The event originally is described as a “partly social, partly artistic” event. The night comprised of chatting with your date (the social part) while on the way to a musical performance, which was complemented by a lecture on that performance (the artistic part). After this, the night would conclude.

In 1883, however, one or two couples decided to make an impromptu addition by including dancing at the end of the night’s activities. Although Provost Body was not pleased about this, the Lit added dancing to the formal agenda for next year’s event.

By 1891, Conversazione had taken on a much higher profile, with the Governor General’s attendance. For many years after this,

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tickets to the event were purchased from patrons over 100 miles away and the dance continued late into the night, ending around 2:30 a.m. Fortunately, 1904 saw the introduction of electric lighting and hardwood floors, much to the delight of dancers, in Convocation Hall, where the event originally took place.

From this point on, Conversat was consistently regarded as Trinity’s premier social event. Attendees to Conversat were often distinguished members of Toronto’s social scene, and it was seen as a must-attend event. By 1925, it was frowned upon for the Lit to take on even the minutest surplus when throwing Conversat and eventually, alcohol became an expected part of the event. In addition, our practice of extravagant decoration and theming began in the late 1940s, after the College’s spirits were revitalized after the end of World War II. This is believed to be the time when Strachan Hall became the location for Conversat.

The transformation of Conversat has been grand. Many of the event’s traditions pre-date the lives of our grandparents. The rich history of traditions and the desire to build and innovate on top of that foundation help make this event so special to us as a College. Rejoice in this harmonious coupling of past traditions and modern revitalization at the 132nd Conversazione.

Conversat has always been a formal event, and while traditions and styles of attire have changed over the years, the ball remains the most formal event on Trinity’s social calendar. Adhering to the black tie formal dress code, most gentlemen, and anyone else who desires, will sport either a formal suit or a tuxedo to the ball — showing off how good Trinity students can look, at least for the start of a party. If you have been waiting all year for an excuse to buy or rent your own tuxedo, this is it. Whether you chose to sport the traditional tuxedo, a modern slim fitting look or the outrageous Canadian tuxedo, here is a guide that will help you suit up for the ball.

If you have decided that it is time for you to own the most fashionable piece of attire known to man here are some suggestions for where to purchase your Tuxedo. Choose wisely because you may end up wearing this tux to your wedding, and someone at Conversat may even be standing across the aisle. We present you with the following four recommendations.

A) You have decided to purchase a Tuxedo, money is no object, and you will get nothing but the best despite the fact you just popped your last pimple and your doctor is suggesting you may be entering another growth spurt. We recommend Harry Rosen. (82 Bloor Street West)

B) You have decided to purchase a Tuxedo, and you really want it to fit in at your future Harvard med school formal as well as be appropriate for your oxford exams (yes, they do still write exams in white tie formal). There is no better place to shop then the choice of the Ivy League and the Great Gatsby himself, we recommend Brooks Brothers. (110 Bloor Street West)

Tuxedo Rental Suggestions

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C) You have decided to purchase a Tuxedo, and you want the most personalized service and the trendiest shop. You want to know that when you purchase a tuxedo that not only are they giving Bay streets biggest bankers, and many Toronto Maple Leafs the five star treatment at their shop, but you too are being fitted with the perfect and trendiest tuxedo, to suit your style, your cut and your look. We recommend Tom’s Place (190 Baldwin Street - Kensington Market Area)

D) You have decided to purchase a Tuxedo, or at least a Tuxedo jacket, but you don’t want to break the bank. You are just looking for something inexpensive that will allow you to look the part and fit in at Conversat, without doubling your student debts or forcing you to wear your new tuxedo seven days a week because you can no longer afford any other clothing. We recommend Courage My Love (14 Kensington Avenue - Kensington Market Area)

Maybe you have decided purchasing a tuxedo is not your style, or more realistically not in your student budget. One more option if you are interested in fitting in and sporting the Tuxedo look to this year’s Conversat is renting a tuxedo for the evening. It is possible to rent a vast range of tuxedos in Toronto for a reasonable price, we recommend you do your research and speak to an expert to make sure your investment is not only affordable but also makes you look fantastic on the big night. Here are a few top Tuxedo rental locations in downtown Toronto: Freeman Formal Wear (556 Yonge Street - Yonge and Wellesley), Tip Top Tailors (100 King Street West - PATH System Below First Canadian Place), Tuxedo Royale (Yorkdale Mall)

Whether you decide to purchase, rent, or chose formal wear from your existing wardrobe, don’t hold back. Conversat is the pinnacle of the Trinity formal season and your memories of the evening will only be heightened by knowing when you look back on them later you can say with confidence: “Damn, I looked good.”

Speaker’s Guide

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Finding the perfect Conversat dress can be a daunting task, especially since this is the biggest event of the semester, but don’t worry because we have shopping tips for you!

If you are looking to find an affordable, one of a kind piece try looking in Kensington market. Vintage stores are littered through Kensington and you can leave the market with some gorgeous finds that won’t break the bank. Make sure to check out Pretty Freedom and Courage My Love!

Living in Toronto we have the advantage of utilizing custom dressmakers that will design a dress just for you. Ranging from $150-500, places like Champagne and Cupcakes and Breeyn McCarney can work with you to create your dream dress. This process takes several weeks, so make sure to leave yourself enough time before Conversazione!

The world of online shopping is an extremely useful resource that will save you from trekking across Toronto! Be sure to check out websites such as: Fashion Crimes, ASOS, Nordstrom, Lipsy and Nasty Gal. P.S don’t forget to measure yourself according to the measurement standards provided on each website because sizing may change.

VINTAGE DRESSES $-$$

CUSTOM DRESSES $$-$$$

ONLINE DRESSES $-$$$

Finding the Perfect Conversat Dress

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Looking to spend an average amount on a dress? Head down to the 6th floor at The Bay in the Eaton Center. The 6th floor has an ever-expanding array of dresses from many designers. If you decide to rock a short dress for Conversat consider looking in Honey and Mendocino, as they both carry beautiful short dresses perfect for the event.

If you are looking for splurge stores, check out Poor Little Rich Girl north of Yonge and Eglinton. PLRG carries brands such as Sherri Hill, Jovani, and Terrani Couture. Other stores that are guaranteed to have gowns that will pack a punch on the dance floor and to your wallet are Lemor at Queen and Spadina, and Madeline’s Boutique at Avenue and Lawrence.

Sometimes you find the best dresses when you aren’t even looking so take a day to explore Toronto, namely Queen West, and check out the dozens of dress boutiques.

Don’t stress because Toronto definitely has the perfect dress for you!

SHORT DRESSES $$-$$$

SPLURGE STORES $$$$

EXPLORE TORONTO

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Traditions of Conversat

One of the greatest parts of any Conversazione is the tradition of dates and gift giving. By now, you should know if you have chosen to attend Conversat with a date. Bringing a date can be just as exciting as the ball itself, complete with many different events and practices that make it truly unique.

It begins with asking for a date: the asker typically purchases tickets to Conversat for both themselves and their date. Their date, henceforth known as the askee, will return the favour by taking the asker out on a date of their choosing, normally on the Friday evening. If you’re going stag, the Heads have got you covered! Look out for news regarding their exciting plans for Singles Night Out!

The tradition carries over to Saturday, the day of the Conversazione Ball, where the asker will take the askee out for a second date of their choosing. If a second date occurs, the askee will give a gift of similar value to the price of their Conversat ticket.

It is important to remember that you can participate in the tradition of dates and gift giving as much or as little as you like! These traditions are meant to be fun, not stressful. Do whatever makes you feel most comfortable while still having an enjoyable Conversazione experience.

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Thinking of a gift to give your Conversat date can be difficult. However, the best gifts are often the most thoughtful. Get to know your date, their likes and interests, for an unforgettable, personalized present. Still stuck in a rut? Here are some ideas to get you started!

1. The Classic Gift: You can’t go wrong with the tried and true. Think flowers, chocolate, or a nice tie! A classy gift for a classy night.

2. The Adventurous Gift: Who says presents have to be traditional? Step outside the box with a tickets to a comedy show, like Second City, or even some zany socks.

3. The Friendly Gift: Not all gifts have to be for the romantically inclined! An interesting read, a gift card to their favourite coffeeshop, or a game like Cards Against Humanity are great stress free ideas!

Gift Recommendations

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Conversazione Scholarships

Yet another exciting tradition from years past, Conversat Scholarships are being revived by the 132nd Conversazione! These scholarships provide an opportunity to win a free ticket to Conversazione by exhibiting creative prowess and humour. This year, three free tickets will be provided to the winners of our challenges and runners-up will be featured on our Facebook and Instagram pages! Completed submissions must be sent to the Conversazione

executive by 11:59pm on February 2nd.

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Pull out all the stops by rewriting a verse of the classic song “That’s Amore” in the funniest, most imaginative way possible! Simply fill in the blanks and send your original piece to the 132nd Conversazione Facebook page, or to any member of the Conversazione executive.

“When the stars make you ____ like a ______. That’s _____! When you dance _____ with a _____. You’re in _____. When you walk in a _____ but you know you’re not _____ seniore Scuzza me, but you see, ________. That’s ____!”

Conversazione Scholarship #1: FILL IN THE BLANKS

Get in touch with your inner Van Gogh by taking a photo or painting a picture of what the Starry Night means to you! Scanned submissions sent to Conversazione executive or our Facebook page will be accepted until February 2nd.

Conversazione Scholarship #2: A PERSONAL INTERPRETATION OF THE ‘STARRY NIGHT’

On January 30th, a photo and corresponding clue will be posted on our Instagram account (@conversazione)! Carefully examine the photo and clue, as they will indicate a location somewhere within the Trinity College building where a member of the Conversazione executive will be waiting with one free ticket. The first person to solve the clue and discover the member of the executive will win!

Conversazione Scholarship #3: SCAVENGER HUNT

Speaker’s Guide

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Message from the Chairs

In a memoir commemorating Trinity’s one-hundredth anniversary, the highlight of student life always returned to the College’s most famous social institution: Conversazione. What once began as a showcase of the arts evolved into a formal event like no other. The best and brightest of Toronto were invited, often in the University’s largest spaces, from Hart House to Convocation Hall. Even more inspiring is the long list of practices and traditions formulated by students, from tiny dance cards to recount with whom you waltzed, to annual themes, to the creation of daily comedic newspapers and the Speaker’s Guide (our inspiration for this very booklet). While Conversazione may have evolved over the years, each new idea returned to the similar themes of elegance and grandeur.

It is from this that we took our inspiration for the 132nd Conversazione. By paying tribute to the great history of the evening, we hope to return some of the spectacle of the past while highlighting Conversazione as a truly unique event. In formulating a theme that will accentuate this, we chose Vincent Van Gogh’s magnum opus, The Starry Night.

DEAR READER,

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With this, we hope to provide our guests with the excitement and wonder of laying back and gazing at the picturesque night sky.

Putting this altogether requires many thanks. Thank you to Provost Moran, the entire administration and staff at Trinity College for their assistance in implementing our vision for this year’s Conversazione. A massive thank you to the entire Heads team for their endless support and encouragement over the past few months. To our executive, we are forever grateful for your hard work, ideas and determination to run a successful Conversazione. We would also like to thank the Trinity College Literary Institute for their assistance throughout the planning process, including passages found in this Speaker’s Guide. Finally, thank you to all of our sponsors for supporting a cornerstone of student life at Trinity.

In sum, we look forward to seeing you throughout the week at our melange of events, old and new, and we hope that you have a Conversazione to be remembered for years to come.

SINCERELY,

CO-CHAIRS OF THE 132ND CONVERSAZIONE

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

CONVERSAZIONE 2015

copy design: Cameron Jones