Government of Canada Supports the Le Chenail Performing Arts Program
HAWKESBURY, May 6, 2004 -- The Honourable Don Boudria, Member of Parliament (Glengarry-Prescott-Russell), on behalf of the Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage, today announced funding for Le Chenail cultural centre's 2004-2005 season."Whether they live in large urban centres or in isolated areas, Canadians must have access to our arts and culture," said Mr. Boudria. "This is even more true for francophone communities in Ontario, who live in an environment that is primarily anglophone. I am pleased that the Government of Canada supports Le Chenail, which presents French-language productions in Hawkesbury and helps promote the French language and culture in our part of the country."
"Arts presenters like Le Chenail promote the arts and culture in all regions of the country," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "These places of cultural expression allow our artists to gain exposure and reach new audiences. In addition, they provide the population with access to the arts productions in their language from across Canada. In this way, they encourage the cultural vitality of our communities, particularly those living in minority situations."
Le Chenail's 2004-2005 season began on April 1, 2004 and will continue until March 31, 2005. Performances will take place at Robert Hartley Sport Complex, the Cercle Gascon II, and French-language high schools in Hawkesbury. The season comprises 11 shows, highlighting artists from Ontario, Quebec and Acadia. Programming includes music, theatre and humour.
Funding of $25,000 is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Arts Presentation Canada program. The goal of this program is to give Canadians the opportunity to appreciate the richness and diversity of Canada's culture through professional calibre festivals and performances, and other artistic experiences.
Funding for this initiative was provided for in the March 2004 federal Budget.
Information:
Julie Chartrand
Parliamentary Assistant
Office of the Honourable
Don Boudria
(613) 996-2907
Mylène Dupéré
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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