TORONTO, Sept. 22, 2012 /CNW/ - An investment by the Harper Government in the performing arts in Toronto will create jobs, and promote economic growth in the region. Funding for the Canada's Walk of Fame Festival was announced today by Paul Calandra, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Member of Parliament (Oak Ridges-Markham), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
From September 20 to 23, 2012, Toronto's residents and visitors will once again enjoy the four-day celebration of the Canada's Walk of Fame Festival. The Festival, which will be presented at Massey Hall, Nathan Phillips Square, and other locations in the city, will feature performances by some of Canada's most popular and celebrated performers. Now in its third year, the Festival coincides with the Canada's Walk of Fame Awards Ceremony, the annual induction of Canadian cultural icons to the Walk of Fame, which began in 1998.
"This year marks the start of the five-year countdown to Canada's 150th birthday in 2017," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud to invest in projects that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians. On the road to 2017, let us continue to celebrate all of the things that make Canada the united, prosperous, and free country we are today."
"Our Government is proud to support activities that promote excellence and provide Canadians with a variety of professional artistic experiences," said Mr. Calandra. "Canada's Walk of Fame Festival is a showcase of strong Canadian artistic talent that attracts tourists to Toronto and generates economic growth for the area."
"Canada's cultural exports continue to grow around the world, and more people are interested in our homegrown talent than ever. Our goal with the Canada's Walk of Fame Festival is to continue the growth, enhancement, and exhibition of our 100-percent Canadian cultural content, as well as to create opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talents alongside our iconic Canadian performers." said Peter Soumalias, Founding Director, Canada's Walk of Fame. "On behalf of the organization, we express our sincere gratitude to the Government of Canada and the Canada Arts Presentation Fund for their generous financial support that will help us to pave the way for these young Canadians to shine."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $500,000 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.
SOURCE: Canadian Heritage
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(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)
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