PARRY SOUND, Ontario, February 28, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Member of Parliament (Parry Sound-Muskoka), today announced funding for the Charles Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts in Parry Sound.
The funding will support the centre's 2009-2010 performance series in several disciplines, including music, comedy, theatre, and dance. Both Canadian and international performers will engage audiences of all ages through diverse artistic experiences at both indoor and outdoor venues.
"Our Government recognizes that creativity and innovation are essential to our Canadian cultural life and to our economy," said Minister Moore. "The Charles Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts will continue providing artists with opportunities to express their creativity, while enhancing the quality of life of the Parry Sound-Muskoka."
"The Performing Arts Centre makes an outstanding contribution to the cultural vitality of Parry Sound, and we are proud to contribute to it," said Minister Clement. "This beautiful facility was constructed using the area's natural stone and indigenous trees, resulting in a performance space with excellent acoustics to complement the top-notch artistic talent for which this centre is known. Congratulations on your outstanding work."
"The Government of Canada funding will assist the Town of Parry Sound and Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts in realizing their objectives of increasing exposure to the arts and culture for regular and new patrons," said Lynn Middaugh, Director of Economic Development and Leisure Services, Town of Parry Sound. "This funding will also provide the Stockey Centre with the opportunity to expand its audience outreach. The Town of Parry Sound is sincerely appreciative of the assistance received from APC, as it recognizes the economic benefit of arts and culture."
The Government of Canada has provided $40,000 in 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, presentation of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
