SASKATOON, February 1, 2007 - On behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, Maurice Vellacott, Member of Parliament (Saskatoon-Wanuskewin), today announced funding of $10,752 for La Troupe du Jour of Saskatoon. These funds will enable the theatre company to undertake a feasibility study for the development of a new production centre."Our artists need quality facilities to give free rein to their creativity and fulfill their potential," said Minister Oda. "I am, therefore, proud to announce this support to help La Troupe du Jour reach an important step towards relocation into new facilities that will best suit their needs.""La Troupe du Jour is Saskatchewan's only French-language professional theatre company," said Mr. Vellacott. "This project will help the Company to continue to grow and contribute to the vitality of the arts scene in Saskatoon, in the province of Saskatchewan, and in Canada."Through the feasibility study project, la Troupe du Jour expects to identify the best location for a production centre, its operational and financial requirements, funding sources, and potential partnerships. The production centre will consist of a rehearsal and workshop hall, a wardrobe shop, set construction rooms, and offices.Canada's New Government has provided the funding through the Cultural Spaces Canada program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program supports cultural infrastructure projects that increase access for Canadians to performing arts, visual arts, and media arts, as well as improve physical conditions for artistic creativity and innovation. Funding is also provided for the construction and renovation of arts and heritage facilities, for the purchase of specialized equipment, and for feasibility studies and projects to transform buildings into arts or heritage facilities.Information: Véronique Bruneau Press SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women819 997-7788Tim BloedowLegislative AssistantOffice of the Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Wanuskewin613 992-1966 Angela CassieA/Director of CommunicationsPrairies and Northern RegionCanadian Heritage204 983-4367
