CANMORE, Alberta, May 23, 2008 - Canmore-area residents and visitors will have an opportunity to enjoy local and international musicians this summer, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada.
Myron Thompson, Member of Parliament (Wild Rose), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, today announced funding for the Canmore Folk and Blues Club.
Funding of $45,000 will be used to support the Canmore Folk Music Festival, one of Alberta's signature cultural events. The Festival, which will take place August 2 to 4, 2008, is widely recognized as a world class event that features an eclectic mix of music performed in many different styles. The Festival showcases more than 40 performances by Canadian and international artists and includes dance, crafts, workshop stages, and children's activities.
"The Government of Canada is committed to supporting projects that increase Canadians' access to arts and culture," said Minister Verner. "These festivals also reflect the important role that the arts play in communities across Canada, especially at the height of summer."
"Arts organizations must have access to resources that enable them to flourish within their communities," said Mr. Thompson. "Today's funding will allow the Canmore Folk and Blues Club to deliver unique cultural experiences to audiences in the Canmore area."
"The financial support provided by Canadian Heritage has enabled the Canmore Folk Music Festival to present national and international performers to local audiences on Alberta's Heritage Day weekend," said Ken Rooks, Director of the Canmore Folk and Blues Club. "The Festival not only contributes to the richness of Canmore's cultural life, but also makes a significant contribution to our economy."
The Canmore Folk and Blues Club has been serving community of Canmore and providing them with a connection to folk music for over 30 years. The Canmore Folk Music Festival is Alberta's longest running folk music festival and will be held in Centennial Park.
The Government of Canada has provided this funding through the Arts Presentation Canada Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians increased access to the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage,
Status of Women and Official Languages
819 997-7788
Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604 666-6504
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
