Government of Canada Supports the Festival de Lanaudiere

JOLIETTE, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - May 21, 2013) - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on behalf of himself and the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, today reaffirmed the Government of Canada's support for the 36^th Festival de Lanaudière.

An acclaimed classical music event, the Festival de Lanaudière-which runs from July 13 to August 11, 2013-will offer symphonic, choral, and chamber music to an audience of more than 60,000 music lovers. Joliette's Amphithéâtre Fernand-Lindsay and a number of churches in the region will serve as venues for around 30 concerts and recitals showcasing world-class orchestras and soloists.

"Our Government is proud to support this must-see artistic event, which over the years has made it possible for an ever-growing and diverse audience to discover great works of classical music," said Minister Moore. "In addition to providing an outstanding showcase for artists from Canada and abroad, the Festival de Lanaudière also enriches the cultural life of citizens and visitors while ensuring the region's prosperity."

"Promoting the Festival de Lanaudière on markets outside Quebec will help strengthen the drawing power already enjoyed by this exceptional artistic event. Indeed, greater visibility will undoubtedly enable this festival, one of the largest of its kind in Canada, to attract even more tourists. As we know, Lanaudière benefits significantly from the spinoffs generated by this festival, which is an undeniable asset for the region on many levels. That is why Canada Economic Development was unhesitating in its decision to fund this major musical event again this year," explained Minister Lebel.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $300,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program 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.

This funding from Canada Economic Development, granted in the form of a $263,709 non-repayable contribution, has been awarded through the Quebec Economic Development Program.

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