Harper Government Invests in Perth Arts Connect

STRATFORD, ON, Sept. 14, 2011 /CNW/ - Perth Arts Connect will once again entertain Stratford and Perth County's residents and visitors this autumn, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada. This was announced today by Gary Schellenberger, Member of Parliament (Perth-Wellington), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Perth Arts Connect, a local non-profit organization, will present the 2^nd edition of Culture Days: A Celebration of Culture in Stratford and Perth County from September 30 to October 2. The three-day festival is part of the national Culture Days movement to raise awareness, accessibility, participation, and engagement of all Canadians in the arts and cultural life of their communities.

"Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in important festivals like Culture Days," said Minister Moore. "By supporting these celebrations, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our communities, boost our economy, and support our arts, culture, and heritage."

"Culture Days is a great event that gives people in Stratford and Perth County the opportunity to enjoy world-class theatre and dance performances, as well as interactive performing and visual arts workshops by local artists." said Mr. Schellenberger. "Congratulations to the organizers, volunteers, and performers who make this event a great success."

"Perth Arts Connect is thrilled to receive this valuable support," said Eileen Smith, Festival Coordinator. "We are looking forward to celebrating culture throughout Stratford and Perth County with an astonishing number of free arts activities and events offered to our community."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $25,400 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.

(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)

 

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