The Government of Canada invests in live arts and cultural experiences in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
SYDNEY, NS, Aug. 27, 2026 /CNW/ -- We are very proud to invest in live arts and cultural programming in Cape Breton to strengthen the region's cultural sector, increase public access to diverse performances, and support professional productions on local stages.
Today, Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament (Sydney–Glace Bay), on behalf of the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced a total investment of more than $180,000 in five projects across Cape Breton in Nova Scotia.
Together, these investments will strengthen Canadian arts and culture by creating more opportunities for audiences to discover Canadian artists and celebrate the rich musical and cultural traditions that shape Cape Breton's unique identity, while supporting a diverse range of live arts and cultural experiences--from the internationally recognized Celtic Colours International Festival and the Cape Breton Jazz Festival to year-round presentation series at venues such as the Highland Arts Theatre and the Savoy Theatre, as well as seasonal programming and events including the Makin' Waves festival and Cape Breton Regional Municipality's fall and winter programs.
Through support for major festivals and year-round arts presentation, we are strengthening the region's cultural sector and ensuring that residents and visitors have access to high-quality live arts experiences in their communities. These projects demonstrate the importance of accessible, high-quality live arts programming in building vibrant communities.
Quotes
"I've had the chance to see Cape Breton's strong and vibrant performing arts community firsthand on many occasions. Local presenters and festivals bring people together, showcase our incredible artists and contribute to a strong local economy. By supporting them, we're helping more people experience the arts while strengthening the communities that make Cape Breton such a special place to live and visit."
--The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages
"Cape Breton audiences know the value of great live performances, and these organizations consistently deliver memorable cultural experiences for our communities. I'm pleased to see federal support for such a diverse range of programming, from jazz and seasonal performances to the presentation series at Highland Arts Theatre and the Savoy Theatre. These investments help ensure that Cape Breton remains a place where artists can thrive and audiences can enjoy exceptional live arts close to home."
--Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament (Sydney–Glace Bay)
Festivals and events receiving funding for 2026-2027
Program |
Organization |
Approved |
Canada Arts Presentation Fund |
Cape Breton Jazz and World Music Festival |
$6,500 |
Cape Breton Regional Municipality - Department of Recreation – Makin' Waves programs |
$22,500 |
|
Celtic Colours Festival Society |
$134,400 |
|
Highland Arts Theatre Association |
$8,000 |
|
The Savoy Theatre Society |
$9,000 |
|
Total |
$180,400 |
|
Quick Facts
The Celtic Colours International Festival is an internationally renowned celebration of Cape Breton's Celtic culture, music and traditions that unites artists and audiences through concerts, community events and cultural experiences across the island. The festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026.
The Makin' Waves festival, organized by the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and the City of Sydney, and the Fall and Winter Programs offer a diverse lineup of live arts and cultural experiences that give audiences opportunities to enjoy performances and connect with artists throughout the fall and winter seasons.
The Highland Arts Theatre in Sydney is a performing arts venue that serves as an important cultural hub for Cape Breton. Its 2026/27 Presentation Series will bring a diverse range of professional performances to the stage and reinforce the theatre's role as a place for artists and audiences to come together and experience live arts.
The Savoy Theatre in Glace Bay provides cultural programming and opportunities to residents and visitors to Cape Breton. The Savoy presents a wide variety of local, national and international cultural entertainment. It strives to provide opportunities for growth, learning and artistic expression through theatre, music and dance.
The Cape Breton Jazz Festival, held each year in autumn, is a celebration of jazz and live music that brings musicians and audiences together to enjoy performances and experience the creativity and talent of artists in Cape Breton.
The Canada Arts Presentation Fund supports organizations that professionally present arts festivals or performing arts series as well as organizations that fund arts presenters.
Associated Links
Celtic Colours International Festival
SOURCE Canadian Heritage
Contacts: For more information (media only), please contact: Hermine Landry, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, [email protected]; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, [email protected]
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