PICTOU, Nova Scotia, May 11, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament (Central Nova), today announced funding for the deCoste Entertainment Centre Society in Pictou.
This funding will enable the deCoste Entertainment Centre to present a series of around 20 performing arts events in music, theatre, and comedy during its 2010-2011 season.
"Our Government is pleased to support the important work of the deCoste Entertainment Centre Society," said Minister Moore. "Organizations like this make an enormous contribution to local tourism which, of course, benefits the economy in general. I am pleased that the people of this community and this province will continue to enjoy the ongoing positive impact of the deCoste Entertainment Centre's programming."
"Since opening its doors in 1982, the deCoste Entertainment Centre has continued to present a list of top-notch entertainers from around the world," said Minister MacKay. "This has been very good for the people of Pictou County and beyond. We are proud to contribute to the high-quality programming of this first-class facility."
"Financial support received from the Government of Canada will greatly assist the deCoste Centre in expanding its performance base," said John Meir, Artistic Director at the Centre. "Specifically, it will assist in presenting more events for the cultural enrichment of our young audiences and in encouraging the support of family and group attendance."
The deCoste Entertainment Centre, located in the historic harbour town of Pictou, Nova Scotia, is one of the finest venues for the performing arts in Eastern Canada. The deCoste Entertainment Centre Society presents a varied series of performing arts events aimed at all age groups in a rural and diverse geographical area.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $6,500 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
Claudine Daigle
Director
Regional Communications
Atlantic Region
Canadian Heritage
506-851-3980
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
