600 Alberta Artists in a 13-day Festival
Alberta artists were on the show on the road this spring. The destination was Ottawa and the spotlight was on Alberta and its artists during the 13-day festival. Produced by the National Arts Centre, Alberta Scene showcased 600 Alberta artists in 95 events and 19 venues in Ottawa from April 28 - May 10, 2005. Alberta Scene was an opportunity to share Alberta art and culture and celebrate Alberta's centennial with the rest of Canada.
Established and emerging Alberta artists representing all music genres, along with theatre, dance, literary, visual and culinary arts appeared on a number of stages including the National Arts Centre, the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the National Gallery of Canada, the Ottawa Art Gallery, theatres, music halls and bistros. Aboriginal artists formed a key part of the festival, and showcased the vibrant arts and culture of First Nations communities.
The diverse line-up included, among many, many others: Oscar Lopez, P.J. Perry, Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, Gordie Johnson, Terri Clark, Wil, War Party, SNFU, Guys in Disguise, Crazy Horse Theatre, Barrage, David Hoffos, Ann Vriend, Amir Amiri, Nicole Mion, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Shumka, Shani Mootoo, John Stetch, Corb Lund, DJD, Tri-Continental, Crystal Plamondon, Ian Tyson and Tommy Banks.
As part of its centennial initiative, Alberta Community Development contributed funding to the event. The funding offset the fees, travel costs and expenses associated with the participation of Alberta artists and arts organizations. Other sponsors included the Government of Canada and EPCOR.
Alberta Scene is the second in a series of regional festivals that feature the best in Canadian arts and entertainment. Atlantic Canada was featured in 2003. The national media coverage of the events has helped participating artists obtain festival and concert bookings, recording and distribution deals and agency signings.