TOFINO, British Columbia, May 13, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, James Lunney, Member of Parliament (Nanaimo-Alberni), today announced funding for the Pacific Rim Arts Society.
This funding will support the multidisciplinary Pacific Rim Summer Festival, which will take place from July 1 to 15, 2010, in the communities of Ucluelet and Tofino, as well as in neighbouring First Nations communities. The Festival will consist of presentations of classical, chamber, world, roots and traditional music, as well as dance and comedy, by culturally diverse artists.
"The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of supporting arts and culture at the community level," said Minister Moore. "The Pacific Rim Arts Society is a key arts presenter on Vancouver Island during the peak of the summer tourist season."
"I am pleased that our Government has delivered funding for the Pacific Rim Summer Festival," said Mr. Lunney. "This festival provides our community with access to some of the best in cultural performances and offers memorable experiences for residents and tourists alike."
"The Pacific Rim Arts Society is grateful for the continued support of the Government of Canada," said Norma Dryden, President. "The Canada Arts Presentation Fund contribution is extremely important to Tofino, Ucluelet, and the Nuu-chah-nulth communities, as it supports our regional culture and economy."
The Pacific Rim Arts Society is a volunteer-based, non-profit society serving the districts of Tofino and Ucluelet and First Nations communities in the Clayoquot Sound area on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. The Society is celebrating its 40 th year of bringing arts and cultural events to the region.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,000 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
