Canadian Heritage

EDMONTON, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - May 19, 2009) - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament (Edmonton-Spruce Grove), today announced funding for Edmonton's Rapid Fire Theatre Society to support the annual Improvaganza International Improv Festival, which will take place from June 17 to 27, 2009.

The world's best comedy improv teams will showcase the improvisational methods of a theatrical game called TheatreSports. A total of 18 shows, 2 public workshops, and 5 networking events will be presented during the festival.

"This festival has earned an international reputation as a presenter of high-quality improv and draws artists from all over the world," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud to support this festival, which contributes to the community's vitality and economy."

"Edmontonians and visitors to the area will have an opportunity to take part in the excitement of the Improvaganza Festival," said Minister Ambrose. "These activities celebrate the outstanding talents of the artists while showcasing Edmonton's vibrant artistic and cultural scene."

"Rapid Fire Theatre fits a unique niche in Edmonton's festival season with Improvaganza. This festival draws the best improv talent from around the world and showcases it to a younger audience that is rarely seen en masse at live theatre events," said Karen Brown Fournell, General Manager of the Rapid Fire Theatre Society. "These audiences appreciate the challenge of improv theatre, and the value of a ticket to Improvaganza."

The Rapid Fire Theatre Society is an incorporated non-profit organization dedicated to presenting high-calibre comedy artists to young audiences. The Festival has gained an excellent international reputation as a presenter of high-quality comedy improv that draws artists from all over the world.

The Government of Canada has provided $9,500 in 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.

This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Media Room.