KELOWNA, British Columbia, November 4, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament (Kelowna-Lake Country), today announced funding for the Kelowna Visual and Performing Arts Centre Society's 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 Rotary Centre for the Arts Spotlight Series.
This year's program will feature 12 acts representing a wide range of musical genres and a "Made in BC" dance presentation. Outreach activities include post-show chats, school concerts, and workshops.
"Our Government recognizes the importance of arts and culture at the community level, which is why we are proud to invest in organizations like the Kelowna Visual and Performing Arts Centre Society," said Minister Moore.
"I'm pleased that our Government continues to recognize the value of local arts and culture," said Mr. Cannan. "Thanks to the Government of Canada's support and the hard work and dedication of the staff and volunteers of the Kelowna Visual and Performing Arts Centre Society, our community--especially our young people--will continue to have access to a robust cultural experience."
"This funding is extremely important to the Rotary Centre for the Arts," said Tracie Ward, Executive Director of the Kelowna Visual and Performing Arts Centre. "It allows us to present a great diversity of Canadian talent at an affordable ticket price, making contemporary Canadian performing arts accessible to Kelowna residents. This funding gives Canadian artists an opportunity to work and gain a reputation to ensure a long-term successful career in the performing arts."
The Kelowna Visual and Performing Arts Centre Society is a non-profit organization that strives to improve the economic, cultural, and social quality of life in the community by fostering participation in, and appreciation of, the arts.
The Government of Canada has provided $30,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund (formerly Arts Presentation Canada program) of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians increased access to the variety and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@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
media@pch.gc.ca
