News Release
October 9, 2007
Vancouver - The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety and Member of Parliament for Okanagan-Coquihalla, announced today, on behalf of the Honourable.
Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, a contribution of up to $5,000 to Vancouver's Playhouse Theatre Company. The funds, provided through Veterans Affairs Canada's Community Engagement Partnership Fund, will support the creation and development of the Company's educational outreach program, entitled Remembering the CEF (Canadian Expeditionary Force).
"Theatre provides a unique opportunity for us to rewind the reels of history and relive key moments of our past," said Minister Thompson. "By bringing the story of First World War soldiers to students, the Playhouse Theatre Company is helping shape the future of remembrance in this country."
The Playhouse Theatre Company will launch its 45th anniversary season with the world premiere of an adaptation of Timothy Findley's award-winning novel, The Wars, in October 2007. As part of its production of The Wars, the company will create an outreach program designed to help students understand the play and contextualize remembrance in their own lives. Student activities will include singing songs popular during the war era. They will also recite excerpts from First World War works like In Flanders Fields.
"I encourage the youth of Vancouver to take advantage of this commemorative outreach program and learn more about the importance of remembrance," said Minister Day. "It is the youth of today that will ensure that sacrifices of our Veterans are never forgotten."
The Community Engagement Partnership Fund provides funding to non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events. Administered through Veterans Affairs Canada's Canada Remembers program, contributions are made throughout the year and encompass both national and community-based projects.
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Media Enquiries:
Janice Summerby Media Relations Advisor Veterans Affairs Canada (613) 992-7468
Richard Roik Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs 613-996-4649
All Other Enquiries:information@vac-acc.gc.ca
