DIEPPE, New Brunswick, January 16, 2009 - The City of Dieppe will be able to create a new space where artists can perform and express their creativity, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada.
The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding for the City of Dieppe's Community Recreational Department to assist with the development of an arts and cultural centre.
"Investing in a project like the City of Dieppe's arts and cultural centre is a great example of our Government's commitment to creating an environment that will allow artists to succeed," said Minister Moore. "Over the years, the City of Dieppe has been deeply committed to improving the quality of life of its residents by providing them with access to cultural events, and now the City is establishing a new permanent space where artists can create and perform."
"What wonderful news, not only for the City of Dieppe, but also for the region's artistic community," said Mayor Jean LeBlanc. "We are pleased the federal government is investing in the City of Dieppe's cultural sector with this important funding," he added. "This financing will add a very important attraction to our downtown and will allow the arts and culture sector to strengthen the community thanks to elements that are found under the same roof."
Connected by an atrium, the Old City Hall and the main floor of the Music Conservatory will be transformed into a new arts and culture centre that includes a 250-seat theatre, equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment, a projection booth, dressing rooms, and a green room. The project also includes an outside stage, dance and artist studios, an art exhibition hall, administrative offices, washrooms, and an electrical room.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $881,155 through the Cultural Spaces Canada program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program contributes to improved physical conditions for artistic creativity and presentation or exhibition. It is designed to improve access for Canadians to the performing, visual, and media arts, as well as to museum collections and heritage exhibitions.
Information:
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Claudine Daigle
Director
Regional Communications
Atlantic Region
Canadian Heritage
506-851-3980
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
