SAGUENAY, Quebec, August 17, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Minister of State (Agriculture), and Member of Parliament (Jonquière-Alma), today announced funding for ManiganSes for its 11th Festival international des arts de la marionnette.
This biennial event, which will take place from September 14 to 19, 2010, brings together artists from around the world. It offers around 30 activities and shows for the whole family, roughly half of which will be free of charge.
"Our Government is proud to support this event, which, in addition to promoting interaction with audiences, enables puppeteers from different countries to share their skill and move this remarkable artistic discipline forward," said Minister Moore. "The Festival international des arts de la marionnette is a wonderful example of the creativity and energy that allowed Saguenay to be chosen as a Cultural Capital of Canada 2010."
"ManiganSes and its international puppet festival are opening our region to the world," said Minister Blackburn. "Companies from invited countries will discover our cultural know-how, and, in return, we will have an opportunity to tap into their creativity. Since Saguenay is being celebrated as a Cultural Capital of Canada this year, I am pleased to learn that ManiganSes has forged ties with other cultural capitals in the country for 2010: Saint John, New Brunswick, and Winnipeg, Manitoba. The production of shows and sharing of ideas between Canadian artists are excellent ways to enhance the festival's reputation and develop the artistic potential of our region."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $75,000 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
Éric Amyot
Regional Communications
Manager
Quebec Region
Canadian Heritage
514-283-4027
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
