Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
March 13, 2015
Strategic Investments Strengthen Cultural Opportunities
Extraordinary Musical Experiences in Breathtaking Places Made Possible Through Provincial Government Support
Gros Morne Summer Music Inc. is positioning itself for significant growth with the support of $98,425 from the Provincial Government. Now in its 11th year, the Gros Morne Summer Music festival has become one of Canada's most innovative and eclectic music festivals. Featuring classical, jazz, blues, traditional, choral music, musical theatre, rock shows, dance and outdoor events, the festival offers world-class performances throughout the Gros Morne region.
�Artistic talent and cultural expression have always been strong throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. As a government, our role is to create an environment where organizations like Gros Morne Summer Music Inc. can capitalize on new and developing opportunities and grow as a result. I am pleased that this investment will support Gros Morne Summer Music Inc. and their ability to enhance their current offerings while also expanding the reach of the summer music festival. This has been indispensable in sustaining the strong cultural industry in the region and driving economic development. �
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
Through an investment of $90,925, Gros Morne Summer Music Inc. will implement a long-term marketing plan. The money will also support artist fees, travel, accommodations/venues, and various audio/visual and technical coats.
The remaining $7,500 will be used for skills enhancement and professional training focused on developing year-round programming at the newly renovated St. Patrick�s Church. The neo-gothic church, which was originally built in 1875 in Woody Point, has been refurbished into a high tech audio/video recording studio and performance space, which was also made possible with Provincial Government support.
�The funding that we have received from the Provincial Government has been key to Gros Morne Summer Music Inc. being able to focus on developing western Newfoundland into a thriving cultural and social centre. We are on the verge of some very innovative developments here, none of which would have been possible without the progressive vision and mandate of the province.�
- David Maggs, Artistic Director, Gros Morne Summer Music
Since 2011, the Provincial Government has provided over $283,000 to Gros Morne Summer Music Inc. in support of workplace skills enhancement, professional development, marketing initiatives, as well as, restoration of St. Patrick�s. Funding has also made it possible for Gros Morne Summer Music Inc. to move forward with plans for year-round cultural programming activities. Additional information on Gros Morne Summer Music�s 2015 events can be found by visiting www.gmsm.ca. 
QUICK FACTS
- Gros Morne Summer Music Inc. will receive $98,425 from the Provincial Government in support of the implementation of a strategic marketing plan, product development, as well as professional development and skill enhancement activities.
- Employment in the tourism industry represents approximately eight per cent of total jobs in the provincial economy, making the industry a significant part of building and sustaining the province�s business community.
- Additional information on Gros Morne Summer Music�s 2015 events can be found by visiting www.gmsm.ca.
- 30 -
Media contacts:
|
Tansy Mundon
Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 693-1865 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca |
David Maggs Artistic Director, Gros Morne Summer Music djemaggs@gmail.com |