The Coopérative de théâtre l'Escaouette Modernizes Theatre Facilities
MONCTON, April 14, 2004 -- The Government of Canada will collaborate with the Coopérative de théâtre l'Escaouette on a project to renovate the former Canadian Legion building in Moncton in order to create a modern theatre facility. The announcement was made today by the Honourable Claudette Bradshaw, Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament (Moncton--Riverview--Dieppe), on behalf of the Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage."The Government of Canada is committed to helping our communities become more dynamic and culturally rich," said Minister Bradshaw. "The cultural life in Moncton is flourishing thanks to arts organizations, such as the Coopérative de théâtre l'Escaouette, which allow the public to enjoy Acadian and French-language theatre performances in New Brunswick."
"It is important for communities all across Canada to have the modern infrastructure necessary to foster artistic excellence," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "Cultural participation allows communities to celebrate their contribution to our collective heritage and their pride in living, working, and expressing themselves in French. I am proud that the Department of Canadian Heritage supports the Coopérative de théâtre l'Escaouette in promoting Acadian and French culture in New Brunswick."
The group will receive funding of $400,000 to undertake renovations to the building, which, once completed, will include a 200-seat auditorium, office space, a rehearsal and meeting room, a costume room, green rooms for performers, as well as other spaces necessary for the successful operation of the theatre.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Strategic Development Fund component of the Official Languages Support Programs. The funding supports the Official Languages Action Plan, announced in March 2003, which reaffirmed the Government of Canada's commitment to linguistic duality in Canada by strengthening its support to the development of official-language minority communities.
Funding for this project was provided for in the March 2004 federal Budget.
Information:
Denis D'Amour
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable
Claudette Bradshaw
(506) 851-7093
Mylène Dupéré
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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