Staff
The local “tour de Fort” concert series received a $9,000 shot-in-the-arm thanks to a grant through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund to help cover operating costs for its 19th-annual season, which will run from April, 2010 until March, 2011.
“I’m extremely pleased and proud that the federal government is supporting us and the performing arts in our community,” said Ken Avis, vice-president and programmer of the “tour de Fort.”
“This continued support and funding helps us present high-quality Canadian artists each year in Fort Frances, which enhances both our community culture and the performing arts in the Rainy River District,” he added.
“The 19th-annual ‘tour de Fort’ concert series will provide residents and tourists in Fort Frances and the Rainy River District with quality, Canadian-focused professional entertainment,” federal Heritage minister James Moore said in a press release.
“Our government is proud to invest in the upcoming season, which will feature performances by six emerging and established artists from across Canada, and includes both music and theatre arts,” he noted.
“The ‘tour de Fort’ series enhances cultural life in Fort Frances, and this support from our government is an investment in the continued growth of our community,” echoed Kenora MP Greg Rickford.
“I am proud of our proven track record of working with communities and organizations in the Rainy River area that support cultural growth.”
The Canada Arts Presentation Fund (formerly the Arts Presentation Canada program) of the Department of Canadian Heritage gives Canadians increased access to the variety and richness of Canada’s culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
The next concert in this season’s “tour de Fort” lineup goes this Tuesday (Jan. 12) at 7:30 p.m. when “Paramedic” takes to the Townshend Theatre stage.
A limited number of single tickets will be available at the door for $25 for adults and $10 for students (ID required).
Meanwhile, passports for the 2010-11 season will be for sale at Tuesday’s concert, as well as at the Fort Frances Public Library, from Kevin Nielson at Shoppers Drug Mart, or by calling 274-5351.
