SURREY, British Columbia, February 22, 2011 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Nina Grewal, Member of Parliament (Fleetwood-Port Kells), today announced funding for the Surrey Arts Centre.
This investment will allow the Centre to purchase and install new seats in its Main Stage Theatre to improve audience comfort and safety. This specialized equipment project is scheduled to be completed by December 2011.
"Our Government is stimulating the economy by investing in a number of key sectors, including arts and culture," said Minister Moore. "By supporting this renovation, we are helping ensure that Canadians have access to exceptional cultural experiences in their communities."
"Creating public spaces that encourage cultural growth in our communities is a priority for our Government," said Mrs. Grewal. "The Surrey Arts Centre's Main Stage Theatre renovation project will strengthen arts and culture not only in our city, but also in the surrounding area."
"The Surrey Arts Centre Main Stage theatre is a multidisciplinary venue that has promoted artistic excellence through professional and community-based programming since 1982," said Mayor Dianne Watts. "This project includes a renovated audience chamber featuring elegant seating and contemporary design and will enhance the theatre experience for our patrons now and into the future. We thank the Government of Canada and our local arts community for supporting this important capital project."
The City of Surrey owns and operates the Surrey Arts Centre, the focal point in the city where visitors can experience visual and performing arts. For 27 years, the Main Stage and Studio Theatre have offered a diversity of artistic presentations including professional and community theatre, music and dance.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $118,075 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to improve physical conditions for artistic creativity and arts presentation or exhibition. It is also designed to increase access for Canadians to performing, visual, and media arts, and to museum collections and heritage displays.
Codie Taylor
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
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
