Provincial Government Supports Annual Folk Music Festival

Starting today (Friday, August 3) through to August 5, be sure to experience some of the province’s incredible culture at the 36th Annual Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival in St. John’s. The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced that $25,000 has been provided to the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Society, through the Provincial Government’s Cultural Economic Development Program to offset the costs associated with hosting the festival.

“As the second oldest continuously running folk festival in Canada, the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival showcases some of the best performances of traditional and contemporary folk music and dance in the province,” said the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. “This year’s line-up will entertain audiences with a diverse range of music and talent from performers such as The Once, The Masterless Men, and The Punters.”

For a complete schedule and ticket information, visit www.nlfolkfestival.com/ .

“The Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Society is extremely appreciative of the financial support of the Provincial Government and the advice provided by the staff of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation,” said Anita Best, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Council. “It's wonderful to see our government helping us to keep our cultural traditions vibrant and meaningful to new generations.”

Budget 2012: People and Prosperity provides $2.9 million through its Cultural Economic Development Program to support arts, cultural, and heritage initiatives in 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 08 03             12:45 p.m.