SUMMERSIDE, P-E-I, July 6, 2012 /CNW/ - An investment from the Government of Canada will help promote arts and culture in Prince Edward Island, while also stimulating the region's economy. Funding for the College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts of Canada was announced today by the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue and Member of Parliament (Egmont), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
This funding will support the Highland Storm and College Concert Series to be presented by the College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts of Canada in Summerside in July and August 2012. The performing arts series will showcase Celtic culture through 34 performances featuring a variety of interdisciplinary artists from three different provinces. It will focus on Highland music and dancing, as well as performances by various groups playing traditional, folk and Celtic music.
"Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in organizations that celebrate our culture, like the College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts of Canada," said Minister Moore. "By supporting this organization, our Government is delivering on its commitment to stimulate the economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage."
"I am proud of our Government's commitment to supporting the arts and cultural sectors in communities across Canada," said Minister Shea. "The Summerside region gains significant benefits as a result of the Highland Storm and College Concert Series."
"The financial contribution from the Government of Canada is essential to the success of our Highland Storm and College Concert Series celebrating Celtic heritage in Prince Edward Island," said Karen Hatcher, Executive Director of the College. "This funding allows us the opportunity to showcase the high-energy production pieces woven seamlessly together through Celtic music and dance. Year after year, the spirit of young artists who embrace their heritage with an infectious enthusiasm inspires locals and visitors alike! Highland Storm provides Island youth with a significant opportunity to nurture their artistic skills, broaden their repertoires, further their understanding of teamwork and commitment, build self-esteem, and be publicly recognized for their unique artistic talents. "
The College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts of Canada, established in 1990, preserves and promotes the Celtic heritage of Canada's most Celtic province, Prince Edward Island. As the only year-round institution of its kind in North America, the College attracts students from across Canada and other countries.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,000 for 2012-2013 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:
Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
Gilles Thériault
Regional Communications Director
Atlantic Region
Canadian Heritage
506-851-3980
[email protected]
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[email protected]
(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)
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