Government of Canada Supports the Calgary Opera Association |
| CALGARY, August 29, 2005 -- Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, and Member of Parliament (Edmonton Centre) Anne McLellan, on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla, today announced $125,000 in funding for the Calgary Opera Association. The funds will enable the organization to purchase specialized equipment and build a performance hall in Wesley United Church. "This funding will provide the Association with the help it needs to build a performance hall befitting its talent and ambition," said Minister McLellan. "I am proud that the Government of Canada supports an organization that enriches the cultural life of Calgary and our province." "By investing in our artistic organizations, we encourage creativity and innovation," said Minister Frulla. "We also offer Canadians the chance to discover and appreciate all the richness and diversity of our culture." The Calgary Opera promotes classical and contemporary opera in the Calgary area and presents concerts and recitals. It also offers educational programs, a "Master Class Program" for experienced singers, and the "Let's Create An Opera Program" for youth. Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Cultural Spaces Canada program. This program supports cultural infrastructure projects that increase Canadians' access to the performing, visual, and media arts or improve physical conditions for artistic creativity and innovation. Funding announced today was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget. Information: Jean-François Del Torchio Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women (819) 997-7788 Alex Swann Director of Communications Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (613) 991-2924 Derick McNeil A/Senior Communications Officer Canadian Heritage (604) 666-2454 |
