MONTRÉAL, July 28, 2005 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla today announced $170,000 in funding for the École nationale de l'humour. Of this amount, $120,000 will help finance training initiatives and $50,000 will be reserved for expenses associated with moving to a new facility."By providing our young artists with the training they need to develop their talent, we not only help them fulfil their dreams, we ensure a strong future for Canadian culture," said Minister Frulla. "I am proud to support the École nationale de l'humour, which, over the years, has demonstrated the quality of its training by serving as a springboard for many of our well-known artists."L' École nationale de l'humour offers two training programs: one in writing for comedy and the other in performance. Hands-on training provides students with the creative tools they need to develop comedic arts in a variety of media, including television, radio, live performance, and new media. Students also receive practical guidance on entering and working in the field.Funding is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its National Arts Training Contribution Program. The Program supports organizations that are dedicated to training Canadians for professional careers in the arts. The program currently provides support to 39 institutions across the country.Funding announced today was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget. Information:Jean-François Del TorchioPress Secretary Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women(819) 997-7788Myriam BrochuChief, Media RelationsCanadian Heritage(819) 997-9314
