ELORA, Ontario, April 14, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Michael Chong, Member of Parliament (Wellington-Halton Hills), today announced funding for the Three Centuries Festival.
This funding will support the Three Centuries Festival organization in presenting its 31st annual Elora Festival, which is taking place from July 9 to August 1, 2010, at various locations in the village of Elora. The Festival will include a series of musical performances in a wide range of styles and genres and a strong focus on Canadian artists.
"Our Government recognizes the importance of making the arts a fundamental part of the lives of all Canadians," said Minister Moore. "This yearly event in Elora has a long history of providing top-quality musical performances in the region, and it continues to make important contributions to the region's cultural landscape."
"These festivals have become an exciting tradition for this region, and I am proud that our Government recognizes the valuable contribution the Elora Festival makes to the cultural and economic vitality of this community," said Mr. Chong.
"We are delighted to be receiving this level of support, especially in these difficult economic times," said Jurgen Petrenko, General Manager, Elora Festival. "The arts play such an important role in our society, and the public support shown by this governmental funding demonstrates that they understand the value that festivals such as ours add to a community."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $52,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund 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:
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca