Dance Sector Supported by Cultural Economic Development Program

As the primary presenter and champion of contemporary dance in Newfoundland and Labrador, Neighbourhood Dance Works kicks off its 23rd Annual Festival of New Dance tonight (Tuesday, October 8) at the LSPU Hall in St. John’s. The Provincial Government has provided $30,000 through the Cultural Economic Development Program (CEDP) to assist with the production of the annual festival which runs until October 13.

“The art of dancing is an important venue for cultural expression and continues to flourish throughout Newfoundland and Labrador,” said the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. “Dancing is an activity enjoyed by people of all ages, and our government is pleased to support the development and advancement of up-and-coming and established dancers, as well as those working in the dance industry. The fact that Neighbourhood Dance Works is celebrating 23 years of its Festival of New Dance certainly speaks to the importance of dance within our cultural community.”

Calla Lachance, Executive Director, Neighbourhood Dance Works is pleased with the ongoing financial support from the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Neigbourhood Dance Works is able to carry out yet another year of fabulous dance presentation, including our flagship event The Festival of New Dance with this support,” said Ms. Lachance. “We are proud to be at the forefront of contemporary dance and are honoured to showcase some of Canada's finest dancers as well as our own home-grown talent right here in St John's. The world of dance continues to be at the cutting edge of creative thinking in this country and because of financial contributions such as this we are able to ensure our province continues to be an active and valued member of the Canadian dance milieu.”

In addition to the CEDP funding for Neighbourhood Dance Works, $15,000 is also being provided to DanceNL to support various dance events throughout the year such as dance education and workshops.

CEDP applications are considered based on the strength of the business plans, vision, and potential development within the sector. For more information on the program and applications guidelines for the arts and culture sector, visit: www.tcr.gov.nl.ca/tcr/artsculture/cedp/index.html 

Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future provides more than $17 million to support cultural and heritage sectors. Since the launch of Creative Newfoundland and Labrador: The Blueprint for Development and Investment in Culture in 2006, the Provincial Government has invested $87 million through the plan to promote culture and heritage in the province.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

2013 10 08                                     10:45 a.m.