QUÉBEC CITY, June 12, 2009 ? On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, Minister for La Francophonie, and Member of Parliament (Louis-Saint-Laurent), today announced funding for the Festival d'humour de Québec to help it present the 10th Festival Grand Rire de Québec, which is taking place from June 10 to July 5, 2009.
"Laughter is part of the human experience, and the program presented by the 2009 Festival du Grand Rire de Québec highlights this fact," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud to support this major event that showcases the talent of our artists and artisans to the delight of residents and visitors alike. Bravo! In addition to increasing the cultural vitality of the Québec City region, you are stimulating the local economy."
"It is at events like this, where different artistic and comedic worlds come together, that festival-goers can forget their everyday worries, even for just a short while," said Minister Verner. "By creating partnerships with organizations such as this, our Government is fulfilling our commitment to build stronger communities, promote the arts and culture, and support local businesses."
Once again this year, this festival--where comedy and laughter reign supreme--will delight thousands of Québec City residents and tourists from near and far. Events will be held in six performance halls in the region, as well as at a number of outdoor public sites. The Festival Grand Rire de Québec will allow nearly 250 well-known and up-and-coming artists to showcase their talents in various artistic fields, including comedy, theatre, music, song, storytelling, circus arts, and a multidisciplinary laughter-themed show. In all, 12 components will keep the crowds entertained at the 2009 festival.
The Government of Canada has provided $70,000 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, the presentation of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Information:
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca Éric Amyot
Director, Regional Communications
Quebec Region
Canadian Heritage
514-283-4027
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
