Education
May 1, 2007

The following statement was issued by the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

High School Theatre Festival Gets Underway this Week in Stephenville

On Thursday, May 3, 170 students will arrive in Stephenville for the start of this year�s Provincial High School Theatre Arts Festival. High school students from 11 schools across the province will enjoy three days of workshops, perform plays, and receive guidance and advice on theatre arts.

The festival represents the culmination of hours of hard work and dedication. Students, teachers and volunteers have all worked diligently over the past several months to win regional competitions and secure a place at the festival. They deserve to be commended for their commitment to the performing arts.

This is the 31st year for the Provincial High School Theatre Arts Festival, a clear indication of its success. And for the first time, students representing the Francophone school district will be participating. They will perform their play in French and will receive their adjudication from a French drama instructor.

The Department of Education is proud to support this student festival. We have invested approximately $50,000 in this initiative. Students experience the thrill of performing on stage, improve their public speaking skills, learn how to collaborate, and gain self-confidence. The provincial showcase has turned into an annual highlight, not only for the students participating, but for the entire community. I know that Stephenville is very excited to be hosting this year.

Government is proud of its commitment to the students of this province. Cultural Connections, government�s $10 million provincial arts and cultural strategy for K-12 education, aims to increase the presence of cultural content in the school curriculum and foster links between artists and students in the school environment.

This is just one of many initiatives that our school community�s are embracing. From promoting healthy living, to the introduction of skilled trades training in high school, our students have the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their skills in a whole range of areas.

On behalf of this Honourable House, I send best wishes to all participants in this year�s festival and thank everyone involved for making it what I am sure will be another successful year.

2007 05 01                                                1:55 p.m.

 


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