KELOWNA, British Columbia – Kelowna-area residents and visitors will be able to enjoy more high-quality theatrical performances thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada.

Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament (Kelowna–Lake Country), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, today announced funding for the Sunshine Theatre Society

Funding of $16,000 will help the Society produce this year’s Sunshine Theatre Presentation Series, four professional theatre presentations that will emphasize contemporary and new Canadian works, including performances for students.

“The Government of Canada recognizes that culture is an important part of healthy communities and wants to ensure that all Canadians have opportunities to enjoy diverse and varied artistic experiences,” said Minister Verner.

“Arts organizations must have access to resources that enable them to flourish in their communities,” said Mr. Cannan. “Today’s funding will allow this organization to offer unique cultural experiences to audiences in British Columbia.”

“This announcement comes at a perfect time to let the public know that our 2008–2009 subscription series went on sale April 15,” said Tracie Ward, Executive Director of the Sunshine Theatre Society. “The support of Canadian Heritage contributes significantly to our ability to ensure that the very best touring professional theatre productions are available in Kelowna.”

The Government of Canada has provided this funding through the Arts Presentation Canada Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians increased access to the diversity and richness of Canada’s culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.