Stephenville Theatre Festival Receives $30,000 Grant

The 34th Annual Stephenville Theatre Festival will entertain audiences of all ages once again this year, thanks in part to a $30,000 investment through the Provincial Government’s Cultural Economic Development Program.

“Known as the longest-running theatre festival in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Stephenville Theatre Festival has become a major attraction to this region of the province,” said the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. “This season features amazing performances, including the musical revue Canada Rocks and the local production Island in the Sky. We have one of the most vibrant cultural communities in the country, and this festival is just one example of how the province celebrates and encourages such remarkable talents.”

This year’s festival started July 13 and runs until August 12.

“The Stephenville Festival is an internationally known showcase for artists who are dedicated, creative, and professional,” said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills and MHA for St. George’s - Stephenville East. “I am very pleased to be part of a government that recognizes and supports this festival’s contribution to both our culture and economy. I encourage everyone to visit the festival this season.”

Tony Cornect, MHA for Port au Port, said the Stephenville Theatre Festival has entertained audiences for many years with performances that are second to none.

“The Provincial Government recognizes the significant and dynamic contribution of cultural creations and is committed to fostering the arts in the province and in the Bay St. George, Stephenville, and Port au Port region,” said Mr. Cornect. “I wish festival organizers the best of luck for another successful festival this year.”

For more information about the Stephenville Theatre Festival and a schedule of events, visit www.stf.nf.ca/ . 

“The Stephenville Theatre Festival gratefully acknowledges funding from the Provincial Government,” said Elizabeth Brown, Chair, Board of Directors. “The festival has a long and established relationship with the province and could not stage a season without this funding. Thank you to the Provincial Government for contributing to our festival and recognizing the importance of the arts.”

Budget 2012: People and Prosperity provides $2.9 million through its Cultural Economic Development Program to support arts, cultural, and heritage initiatives throughout the province. Projects are selected based on the strength of the business plan, vision, and potential development within the sector.

For more information on the Cultural Economic Development Program and application guidelines, visit: www.tcr.gov.nl.ca/tcr/artsculture/cedp/index.html 

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2012 07 16             3:00 p.m.