Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and Art Gallery of Alberta coming to Wood Buffalo

News Release                                                        For immediate release

Wood Buffalo attracts world-class music & art event

Fort McMurray, AB – March 28, 2012) – The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (ESO) and the Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) will put on a marquee cultural event at the Suncor Community Leisure Centre at McDonald Island Park on June 3, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo announced today. 

The ESO will perform A Tribute to Ray Charles, a full-orchestra production of music from the R&B legend, with vocalist and Ray Charles protégé Ellis Hall. The AGA will showcase its touring exhibit About Face, featuring 17 two-dimensional framed works that examine questions of identity from the perspective of First Nations artists.  Drawn from the collection of the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, this exhibition features artworks by First Nations artists Terrance Houle, Alex Janvier, Duane Linklater, George Littlechild, Frederick McDonald, April Mercredi, Henry Nanooch, and Pat Nokomis.

“This is a huge event for all of Wood Buffalo to participate in and we are very excited to be a part of the planning,” said Carol Theberge, Executive Director of Community Development. “This collaboration also increases the potential for future endeavours between Edmonton and Wood Buffalo.

“We are pleased to collaborate with City Lumber, Syncrude, WorleyParsons Canada and Enbridge to develop this signature arts event to attract the participation of youth, the arts community and residents, as well as promote local cultural development.”

This occasion will help realize three objectives of the Municipal Development Plan, namely creating a vibrant culture, working together, and creating a sense of home and belonging.

More information about this event will become available in the near future.

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Media inquiries may be directed to:

Brendan Procé

Communication Dept.

780-743-7022