TROIS-PISTOLES, Quebec, September 17, 2009 - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding for the Compagnons de la mise en valeur du patrimoine vivant de Trois-Pistoles.
This funding is provided for activities focusing on traditional Francophone stories, both local and from elsewhere. This 13th Rendez-vous will feature a number of performances by professional and up-and-coming storytellers. The event will include meetings, activities, surprises, storytelling evenings and performances, as well as storytelling shows and workshops in schools. It will take place from October 7 to 12, 2009.
"Spoken heritage is invaluable; as the soul and survival of a people, it bears witness to generations that have gone before and those that will follow," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud to support the Compagnons, who created this literary event where words take centre stage. Not only does this organization showcase our Canadian identity and heritage, it also contributes to the local economy by attracting residents from the Bas-Saint-Laurent region and other visitors."
"This funding from the Government of Canada is essential to the development of our festival's activities. It allows us to provide better conditions for our dedicated team of volunteers. This grant also ensures that activities are strictly devoted to showcasing our regional storytellers. Finally, it enables us to improve our marketing plan for the region of Trois-Pistoles. The entire Compagnons de la mise en valeur du patrimoine vivant de Trois-Pistoles team is very proud to be associated with the federal government for cultural development in our area," said Frédéric Lagacé, Coordinator of Rendez-vous des grandes gueules and Samedis de conter.
The Compagnons de la mise en valeur du patrimoine vivant is made up of directors from various socio-professional fields related to the spoken word, organizational management, and event planning. It holds storytelling activities, such as the Rendez-vous des grandes gueules, and has been recognized by stakeholders in the cultural and tourism sectors as well as by businesses in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $8,900 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture or celebrate local history and heritage.
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
media@pch.gc.ca
