BARNSTON WEST, Quebec, May 29, 2010 - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding for the 5th ShazamFest, which will take place from July 23 to 25, 2010.
In Barnston West, in a wooded setting set up especially for the event, ShazamFest will bring together residents of the Coaticook regional county municipality and other visitors, to participate in a variety of activities over three days. These include music by artists from the region, performances, circus-type acts, forging and circus workshops, theatre and burlesque shows, puppet shows, music workshops, and children's activities. The event will feature 59 local artists and artisans and is supported by some 80 volunteers.
"Summer is a time to be entertained and have fun. That's one of the reasons that festivals and other artistic, historic, and cultural events were created," said Minister Moore. "Our Government supports the cultural sector to encourage summer activities, such as ShazamFest, and because it recognizes the leading role these local events play in showcasing regional talent and contributing to the social and economic vitality of Canadian communities."
"ShazamFest is a proud supporter of artists and artisans from the Eastern Townships. The funding we have received will help ShazamFest to become a prestigious event in our region. We would like to thank Canadian Heritage for their collaboration," added Ziv Przytyk, President of ShazamFest.
ShazamFest is a non-profit organization that presents a festival of the same name. ShazamFest seeks to be an environmentally friendly event by using local, sustainable materials and resources. In addition, it generates economic benefits for the entire community by supporting artists and businesses from the region.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $14,900 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate the history and heritage of a region.
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Éric Amyot
Regional Director
Communications
Québec Region
Canadian Heritage
514-283-4027
eric.amyot@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
