The city's professional orchestra is receiving a $200,000 boost .
MPP Bill Mauro (Lib., Thunder Bay-Atikokan) announced the contribution of $276,000 in funding from the Ontario Arts Council for arts initiatives in this region Monday.
The biggest recipient was the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, which was awarded $220,000 towards next year’s operations. It is the only professional orchestra in northern Ontario and holds about 35 home performances a year.
The program is also home to the TBS Chorus, youth orchestra, regional touring, and well as educational and outreach programs in local schools.
“Thunder Bay has a vibrant arts and culture community,” Mauro is quoted as saying in a news release issued Monday morning.
“I want to thank and congratulate those organizations that have received funding, and all individuals and groups that contribute to the vitality of this sector.”
The Community Arts and Heritage Education Project received $40,000 to continue to develop and implement multidisciplinary arts and heritage programming.
The Sleeping Giant Folk Music Society received a $3,300 grant towards six live folk music concerts in Thunder Bay to provide local and regional access.
The Atikokan Entertainment Series was awarded nearly $11,000, with $6,000 going towards the children’s entertainment series to help fund five performances for the Atikokan and surrounding areas.
