Tourism, Culture and Recreation
August 8, 2007

Minister Announces $20,000 in Funding to
Beyond the Overpass Theatre Company

Theatre in Newfoundland and Labrador continues to flourish both artistically and as an important contributor to the economy. The province�s theatrical sector has benefited from an investment of $20,000 under the Cultural Economic Development Program (CEDP) to Beyond the Overpass Theatre Company.

"By supporting the production of Beyond the Overpass Theatre Company�s 2007 Seabird Theatre Festival, this funding demonstrates the Provincial Government�s commitment to ensure that theatre all over Newfoundland and Labrador continues to thrive," said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. "Fostering and supporting our creative talent is an important direction for year two of our cultural plan Creative Newfoundland and Labrador: The Blueprint for Development and Investment in Culture, a $17.6 million three-year strategy to promote and preserve the province�s culture and heritage."

Beyond the Overpass Theatre Company was established in 1998 to present performances at the Barbour Historic Village in Newtown, Bonavista Bay. Bonavista North MHA Harry Harding noted that this funding will allow the festival the opportunity to expand beyond its traditional performance space.

"I am extremely pleased that Minister Hedderson and our government continue to provide strong leadership in the development and advancement of our cultural sector," said Mr. Harding. "For the first time ever, the Seabird Theatre Festival will be offering performances in the Town of Gander. This growth will allow the festival and the Beyond the Overpass Theatre Company to continue to develop their audience and product, allowing all involved to serve as true cultural ambassadors for our region and our province."

Under the CEDP program, the Provincial Government will invest a total of $2.15 million this year to assist with the development of arts and heritage initiatives across the province. The arts sector will receive support for operations, marketing, professional development and export for cultural products. The heritage sector will receive support to assist with conservation, presentation and interpretation of heritage resources, as well as professional development for heritage professionals.

CEDP projects are selected on the strength of business plans, artistic vision and potential for development within a specific sector. For more information on guidelines, please check out //www.tcr.gov.nl.ca/tcr/services_and_programs.htm

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Photo #1: The Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, is joined by Bonavista North MHA Harry Harding as the minister presents a cheque for $20,000 to Steve Perry of Beyond the Overpass Theatre Company.

Media contact:

John Tompkins
Director of Communications
Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
709-729-0928, 728-7762
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca

2007 08 08                                                  10:55 a.m.

 


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