Calgary– The Springboard Dance Collective Society and Dancers’ Studio West Society, both of Calgary, will continue to offer top-quality dance performances, thanks to support from the Government of Canada. Lee Richardson, Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre, made this announcement today on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

With this funding, the Springboard Dance Collective Society will present the Fluid Movement Arts Festival from October 14 to October 23, 2011. The Festival is the only one in Calgary that merges contemporary dance and physical performance from local, national, and international artists.

“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to further strengthen the economy and invest in organizations that enhance our already vibrant arts scene,” said Minister Moore. “These organizations are adding to the cultural diversity of the city’s offerings and generate activity for the local economy.”

“Our Government is proud to support these creative groups in their efforts to provide high-quality artistic performances and presentations in Calgary,” said Lee Richardson. “I applaud the work of these groups in bringing exciting performances to Calgary.”

“I am very pleased, on behalf of Dancers’ Studio West Society, to express gratitude for the financial support provided to us by the Government of Canada,” said Sharon Karst, Business Manager, Dancers’ Studio West Society. “On a local level, we are able to continue our much anticipated annual Alberta Dance Festival, which helps promote beginning, emerging, mid-career, and established creators and present their work to heighten awareness and enjoyment of Alberta contemporary dance.”

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,000 to the Springboard Dance Collective Society and $35,000 to the Dancers’ Studio West Society 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.