MONCTON, March 17, 2005 -- Minister of State (Human Resources Development) and Member of Parliament (Moncton-Riverview-Dieppe) Claudette Bradshaw, on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla, today announced $40,287 in funding for the Coopérative de théâtre l'Escaouette. This funding will enable the cooperative to waterproof the basement of the building it just acquired, and to purchase specialized equipment for the auditorium."Since its inception in 1977, the Coopérative de théâtre l'Escaouette has been offering quality productions that compare with those presented in larger centres," said Minister of State Bradshaw. "The Coopérative helps promote our local artists and showcases the dynamic and vibrant nature of our culture.""Our government is committed to fostering the development of francophone communities across Canada.The funds given to the Coopérative de théâtre l'Escaouette will enable it to continue to present plays that reflect the Acadian and Francophone culture," added Minister Frulla.On February 19, 2005, the Coopérative de théâtre l'Escaouette inaugurated its new premises in Moncton. The building includes a 200-seat auditorium, office space, a rehearsal and meeting room, a costume room, green rooms for performers, as well as other spaces required for the successful operation of the theatre.Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Cultural Spaces Canada Program. This program supports cultural infrastructure projects that increase access for Canadians to performing arts, visual arts, media arts, and also improves physical conditions for artistic creativity and innovation. Funding announced today was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget.Information:Jean-Philippe CôtéDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of CanadianHeritage and Minister responsiblefor Status of Women(819) 997-7788Anne BasqueExecutive AssistantOffice of the Minister of State (Human Resources Development)(506) 851-3314Claudine DaigleDirector, CommunicationsCanadian Heritage(506) 851-3980
