REGINA, January 26, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Ray Boughen, Member of Parliament (Palliser), today announced funding for the All Nations Healin' Thru Artz organization (ANHTA) for its Youth Theatrical Production Project.
Under the guidance of professional artists and elders, Aboriginal young people in North Central Regina will have the opportunity to engage in a positive artistic experience through the creation and presentation of a theatrical production. Participants will develop culturally relevant material through workshops in all aspects of the theatrical arts, from script development to acting to backstage production. These hands-on activities will help these young people develop abilities such as teamwork and problem-solving skills, while giving them the opportunity to share their stories.
"Our Government is working hard to provide Aboriginal young people with community-based and culturally relevant activities," said Minister Moore. "The personal development of the participants will contribute to the growth of their community and of the country."
"This project is a wonderful opportunity for Aboriginal youth to develop their artistic skills and share their talents," said Mr. Boughen. "This investment will provide the young people of North Central Regina with new skills, resulting in improved self-esteem and increased job opportunities."
"We are very thankful to the Government of Canada for supporting our arts programming," said Chuck Jordan, President of ANHTA. "This contribution has made it possible for ANHTA to offer disadvantaged youth of Regina a chance to share their talents and express themselves. These programs help our youth make a positive contribution to the community and enrich their lives in ways that would not be possible without this funding."
All Nations Healin' Thru Artz, incorporated in 2008, is a volunteer-supported community arts organization whose arts programming focuses on theatre for young people aged 12 to 20. Participants collaborate with the professional arts community to build skills; develop confidence, pride and self-esteem; achieve success and become positive models in the community.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $40,000 through the Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth initiative (formerly known as the Urban Multipurpose Aboriginal Youth Centre Initiative) of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This investment will provide Aboriginal young people aged 10 to 24, living in urban settings across Canada, with programming that incorporates Aboriginal values, cultures, and traditional practices in projects and activities designed to improve their social, economic, and personal prospects and to strengthen their cultural identity.
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Chantal Rougeau
A/Manager
Regional Communications
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
Tel.: 204-984-5505
Cell: 204-298-9833
chantal.rougeau@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
