A federal grant from the Department of Canadian Heritage means an extra $6,500 for the Chester Theatre Council Society.

 The announcement was made by local MP Gerald Keddy via a media release dated March 12.

 Chester Playhouse general manager Erick Bickerdike said the funding will be a boost to the service his facility provides.

 "The financial support received from the Government of Canada through the Arts Presentation Canada Program has been a very welcome addition to our programming budget," he said. "It allows us to diversify and enhance our programming in order to include presentations that might be otherwise outside of our reach in a rural community."

 Since its founding in 1984, the society has promoted high-quality performing arts on the stage of its 176-seat theatre, the Chester Playhouse.

 During the upcoming season, the Playhouse will present three diverse arts series featuring about 90 performances of music, theatre, dance and other genres.

 "The Chester Theatre Council Society plays an important role in bringing diverse artistic experiences to the people of South Shore-St. Margarets," Mr. Keddy said.

 "Our government believes that these contributions are a great way to ensure more local cultural activity - activity that helps build the social and economic foundations of our communities, while also building audiences for arts organizations."

 The Arts Presentation Canada Program gives Canadians increased access to the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, live professional performances and other artistic experiences.

posted on 03/17/09