ST. CATHARINES, Ontario July 9, 2008 -Brock University's Centre for the Arts will be able to present its Professional Entertainment Series, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
Rick Dykstra, Member of Parliament (St. Catharines), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for Brock University's Centre for the Arts.
The $60,000 in funding will support the Centre's Professional Entertainment Series, which runs from September 2008 to April 2009. This series presents approximately 55 music, dance, and theatre performances. The funding will also support the Centre's outreach activities, including school concerts, workshops, lectures, and panel discussions.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to support organizations like Brock University's Centre for the Arts, which provide Canadians with the chance to enjoy high-quality artistic programming," said Minister Verner. "By offering cultural opportunities for residents, students, and visitors to St. Catharines, this organization also contributes to the economic vitality of the region."
"It is important for the citizens of St. Catharines--and for all Canadians--to have access to quality arts and culture presentations," said Mr. Dykstra. "Organizations like the Centre for the Arts contribute greatly to the cultural vibrancy of St. Catharines."
"It's wonderful to be supported by the Government of Canada for the important work we do in our community," said Debbie Slade, Director of Brock University's Centre for the Arts. "This funding will go a long way in assisting the Centre for the Arts to present the very best Canadian, American, and international artists.
The Government of Canada 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, presentation 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 and Minister for La Francophonie
819 994-7788
Maya Kane
Manager
Communications
Ontario Region
Canadian Heritage
416 954-6615
