Islanders are encouraged to participate in Culture Days activities in communities across the province this weekend, says Minister of Tourism and Culture Robert Vessey.
“Culture is important to our way of life on PEI,” said Minister Vessey. “It undoubtably contributes hugely to our provincial incomes but it also celebrates what it means to be an Islander. The way we interpret the world around us through arts and heritage makes Prince Edward Island a better place to work, play and live. “
This is the first year that Prince Edward Island has been involved with the movement which highlights the contribution that culture makes to our community. The events celebrate all aspects of culture not just economic impacts.
PEI Culture Days, September 24-26, will include activities and events relating to visual arts, music, and heritage and features a number of open artisan studios, a cultural forum and backstage theatre tours.
Culture Days is a collaborative pan-Canadian volunteer movement to raise the awareness, accessibility, participation and engagement of all Canadians in the arts and cultural life of their communities. The annual, concurrent Culture Days events across Canada feature free, hands-on, interactive activities that invite the public to participate “behind the scenes,” to discover the world of artists, creators, historians, architects, curators and designers in their community.
“Students in our Island school system are also celebrating Culture Days,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Doug Currie. “Some schools are hosting special activities this week such as the Jazz to School Tour featuring a trio of experienced musicians. It is important for our children and youth to receive a well-rounded education and I congratulate and thank all teachers for their efforts in promoting arts and culture.”
Mr. Currie is encouraging teachers and students to take advantage of the strong provincial visual arts, music and drama programs. Some French-first language students at the Commission scolaire de langue française also have opportunities to experience culture through the Arts and Culture specialization program.
Culture Days on PEI has been organized by the PEI Council of the Arts with financial assistance from the Department of Tourism and Culture. For information about Culture Days activities in your community, please contact the PEI Council of the Arts or go to www.culturedays.ca.