COURTENAY, British Columbia, May 3, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, John Duncan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament (Vancouver Island North), today announced funding for the Sid Williams Theatre Society.
The Sid Williams Theatre Society will present Like Diamonds in the Sky, its annual multidisciplinary performing arts series, from September 2010 to June 2011. The series will include 23 presentations by 20 acts in genres including dance, classical and roots music, comedy, and children's theatre. Outreach activities will include classes, workshops, and pre- and post- performance talks.
"I am pleased that our Government is contributing to the strength and success of the performing arts industry," said Minister Moore. "Through investments like this one, we are ensuring that artists can continue to develop and share their talents with all Canadians."
"I am pleased that the Government of Canada continues to support the Sid Williams Theatre Society's performing arts program," said Mr. Duncan. "An investment in the arts is an investment in healthy communities and quality of life."
"The Sid Williams Theatre Society is celebrating its 10th anniversary with its fall 2010-spring 2011 performance season, Like Diamonds in the Sky," said Deborah A. Renz, General Manager of the Sid Williams Theatre Society. "With the assistance of generous funding from the Government of Canada, our season will feature diverse performances by some of Canada's top in ensembles: live theatre, music, dance, and spoken word."
The Sid Williams Theatre Society, formed in 2000, presents a year-round, multidisciplinary season of programming featuring a wide variety of musical genres, including classical, jazz, Celtic, blues, and world-beat music. They also host theatre performances, including musical theatre and comedy, dance, and children's performances. The Society also operates the Sid Williams Theatre as a rental venue for other presenters and community non-profit organizations and is responsible for capital improvements to the theatre.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $25,000 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.
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Perry Boldt
A/Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-5739
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
