SASKATOON — Federal support for five performing arts and tourism organizations across Saskatchewan has been announced.
PrairiesCan will support a French-language theatre troupe’s audience growth strategy, upgrades to a rural resort for year-round tourism, enhancements to Cree Nation historic sites for Indigenous tourism, creation of an outdoor art and cultural garden at a major gallery and expansion of a lakeside music festival.
This represents a combined total allocation from PrairiesCan of $670,000 under the Prairies Performing Arts Initiative (PPAI) and the Tourism Growth Program (TGP).
“Thanks to the support of PrairiesCan and the TGP, our Cree Nation has been able to bring together Elders, knowledge keepers, historians and community members to restore this important place,” said Kevin Seesequasis, director for Community and Tourism Development, Beardy’s and Okemasis’ Cree Nation.
“The history of Assiwiyin and the Battle of Duck Lake deserves to be told with care, accuracy, and heart — and we’re proud to share that story with visitors through Pêmiska Tourism.”
“This support will allow us to strengthen our marketing and philanthropy efforts, increase our internal capacity, and continue to extend our audiences at the provincial level,” said Lina Ouaakarrouch, administrative director and co-executive director, La Troupe Du Jour.
“We are delighted to be able to consolidate our efforts to contribute to a sustainable future for francophone theatres in Saskatchewan.”
Over the past year, Canada reported record growth in tourism, representing significant contributions to local economies, according to a Government of Canada press release.
Tourism revenue reached nearly $60 billion between May and August, a six per cent year-over-year increase.
