COBOURG, Ontario, May 13, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament (Northumberland-Quinte West), today announced funding for the Victoria Hall Week Committee's 150th anniversary celebration of Cobourg's Victoria Hall.
The volunteer-run Victoria Hall Week Committee will mark the 150th anniversary of Victoria Hall from May 25 to 29, 2010. Commemorative activities will include a traditional ball, walking tours, historical presentations, and musical performances by local artists. Cobourg's historic town hall opened in 1860 and was restored in 1983. Today, it serves as a performing arts and community venue.
"Our Government is thrilled to support the commemoration of Victoria Hall," said Minister Moore. "This vestige of Victorian grandeur marks an essential part of our history. Through the work of the local community, we are reinvigorating an essential piece of our past and strengthening its legacy for our future."
"As the historic epicentre of Cobourg, Victoria Hall has pride of place in the community," said Mr. Norlock. "It is an essential tourist attraction and cultural space admired and enjoyed by visitors and residents alike."
"Victoria Hall is one of Canada's architectural jewels," said Alistair Commins, Chair of the Victoria Hall Week Committee. "Opened in 1860 by the Prince of Wales, it has survived intact for 150 years and is still very much the centre of town life in Cobourg. Support from the Government of Canada will assist us in celebrating the birthday of 'The Grand Old Lady of King Street' with the community in a manner that salutes the past and ensures the future of this magnificent building."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,400 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
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
