New Government of Canada Provides Funding for National Theatre Festival in St. John's
ST. JOHN'S, June 28, 2006 - The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, today announced that the Government of Canada will provide funding for the Magnetic North Theatre Festival, which will be held in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, this year."The new Government of Canada is pleased to support the Magnetic North Theatre Festival, which will give Newfoundlanders and Labradorians an opportunity to experience the best of our country's English language theatre," said Minister Oda. "Magnetic North will showcase Canada's diverse and innovative theatre scene, while highlighting the vibrant St. John's theatre community and facilitating connections among artists and industry representatives."
Federal funding for Magnetic North comes from a number of sources, including the Department of Canadian Heritage ($200,000 through the Arts Presentation Canada program), the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency ($75,825 for marketing activities), Service Canada, and the Canada Council for the Arts.
Magnetic North began in Ottawa in 2003. It alternates every year between the nation's capital and a different Canadian city. It was held in Edmonton, in 2004, and in Ottawa again, in 2005.
This year, the Magnetic North Theatre Festival will be held in St. John's from June 28 to July 8. It will feature some of Canada's finest contemporary English theatre, including nine plays from various parts of Canada, theatre for young people, industry events, a young playwrights competition, panels and master classes, and celebrity speakers. It will also include the Fridge Festival, a late night series of six one act plays by performers from across the province. During the 11-day festival, theatre performers will have the opportunity to showcase and find markets for their work.
Information:
Nancy Heppner
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Status of Women
819 997-7788
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
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