September 09, 2010

Canadian Big Band Celebration & Wild for the Arts Festival

Port  Elgin, ONTARIO – Ben Lobb, MP for Huron-Bruce today announced funding for two local festivals.  The Canadian Big Band Celebration & the Wild for the Arts Festival will receive funding from the Government of Canada through the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage Program.

 “Our Government is proud to support both the Canadian Big Band Celebration & the Wild for the Arts Festival,” said MP Lobb. “By partnering with communities to support activities that celebrate our shared history and diversity, we are fulfilling our commitment to strengthen our communities and supporting arts, culture and heritage.”

“Our committee is thrilled to receive funding this year from Heritage Canada.  The funding will provide our community with activities and performances by many local artists which celebrate big band dance music and the Lake Huron dance pavilion heritage we all share, 1920-1950.” said Charlie Bell, Chairperson, Canadian Big Band Celebration

The Canadian Big Band Celebration will receive funding of $12,700 for the 16th annual edition of Canadian Big Band Celebration in the town of Saugeen Shores, Ontario.  The celebration will run from September 17, 2010 to September 19, 2010. Festival activities include jazz and big band musical performances by local artists, exhibits by local artists and artisans and presentations by historical heritage performers.

"I appreciate the Government of Canada's support of the Wild for the Arts Festival.  This Festival promotes many local artists and draws visitors to the Park to enjoy diverse art forms in a natural setting," stated Stewart Nutt, President of the Friends of MacGregor Point Park.  "This financial contribution will enable the Friends to build on the success of previous Festivals.  The Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program's commitment to local Arts Festivals is a wonderful boost to local arts and heritage initiatives."

The Friends of MacGregor Point Park will receive funding of $4,500 to help present its Wild for the Arts Festival, which will take place from September 18 to September 19, 2010.  It will present the 7th annual edition of Wild for the Arts Festival in Saugeen Shores, Ontario. Festival activities include art workshops and demonstrations, musical performances, and a drama presentation by local high school students.

The Government of Canada created the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program in September 2007. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will assist many community events and celebrations throughout Canada this year.  For more information on this government program please visit: http://www.pch.gc.ca/eng/1267799042836

For more information on these local festivals please visit their websites: The Canadian Big Band Celebration: http://www.canadianbigband.ca/, or Wild for the Arts Festival in: http://friendsofmacgregor.org/