GODERICH, Ontario, May 7, 2007 - On behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, Bev Shipley, Member of Parliament (Lambton-Kent-Middlesex), today announced funding of $25,000 for the Goderich Celtic Folk Society. This funding will support the annual Celtic Roots Festival, which will take place in Goderich's Lions Harbour Park from August 10 to 12, 2007.
"Canada's New Government is pleased to support the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival," said Minister Oda. "Our Government's support for cultural celebrations such as this one is integral to providing Canadians with access to diverse, high-quality artistic performances in all parts of the country. This festival provides the citizens of Goderich and surrounding communities with opportunities to interact with Celtic artists through music and dance workshops as well as programming for children and families."
"Over the course of its 15-year history, the festival has always presented a diversity of performers and workshops," said Mr. Shipley. "This year's festival will weave together Francophone, Indigenous and emerging artists in its thematic exploration of The Celtic Compass: Elements and Direction."
"Canadian Heritage funding is the major factor that has allowed us to grow our festival from a provincial to a national to an international event in terms of performers presented and audiences attracted," said Eleanor Robinson, president of the Goderich Celtic Folk Society. "The funding also provides stability, a sense of validation and the chance to develop outreach marketing initiatives."
The three-day festival features performances by world-class musicians in an intimate park overlooking Lake Huron. The new Gairbraid Theatre will present plays that explore Irish and Scottish history and Celtic mythology.
Canada's New Government has provided funding through the Arts Presentation Canada program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to give Canadians more access to direct experiences of the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Information:
Véronique Bruneau
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Status of Women
819 997-7788
Pat Davis
Executive Assistant
Office of the Member of Parliament for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex
519 627-4899
Jaime Burke
A/Communications Manager
Ontario Region
Canadian Heritage
416 973-2050
