EDMONTON, July 3, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament (Edmonton-Spruce Grove), today announced funding for the Fringe Theatre Adventures Society.
This funding will be used to hold the 2009 Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, which is taking place from August 13 to 23. The Festival offers more than 110 indoor and outdoor stage productions, as well as venues where artists improvise their performances. Theatrical workshops, Kids Fringe, forums, and artisans' booths complement the fair-like atmosphere throughout the event. This funding will also be used for the Fringe Holdovers event and the annual Theatre Subscription Series that takes place from October to April each year.
"Our Government is proud to support the Edmonton International Fringe Festival as a major artistic event on Alberta's cultural scene," said Minister Moore. "The Fringe Theatre Adventures Society organizes much-anticipated events that are accessible to everyone and help reinforce our identity as Canadians."
"The Fringe continues to be one of Edmonton's most exciting artistic and volunteer experiences," said Minister Ambrose. "Our Government knows how essential arts are to local organizations, volunteer groups, and local businesses, and we are proud to support Edmonton's vibrant cultural scene."
"We are delighted that the Government of Canada continues to support Fringe Theatre Adventures," said Julian Mayne, Executive Director of the Fringe Theatre Adventures Society. "Our ability to deliver our mandate of supporting theatre artists and the evolution of theatre in Canada is made possible through this support. The Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival and yearly season presentations are stronger and continue to grow because of this vital support."
Fringe Theatre Adventures is a professional theatre company whose mandate is to create theatre that challenges and celebrates the cultural fabric of our communities, with an emphasis on new and emerging artists, audiences and forums. The Edmonton Fringe Theatre Festival began almost 30 years ago and has become North America's largest theatre event.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $146,000 through the Arts Presentation Canada program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with increased access to the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentation of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Stephanie Rea
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
stephanie.rea@pch.gc.ca
Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-6504
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
