artsparks at the library programs

At the heart of artsparks, accessible arts programming for everyone project, was a commitment to building a community that celebrates the strengths and achievements of all people. In the past few years of artsparks programming at the library and at the museum in Red Deer we have seen the participants of artsparks 'sparked' with the power of artistic creation and expression, becoming happier and more confident in their lives and more active members of the community.

Unfortunately, in 2010 artsparks project in Red Deer cannot continue offering the full range of programs due to the funding cuts from the PDD Central Board. We would like to thank the PDD Central Board for their past support and their vision in starting the program back in 2005.

As a result of the funding cuts artsparks community stepped up to the challenge and accessible arts programming will still be there for artsparks participants in Red Deer, 2010 but in a different format.

artsparks on the boards is pleased to announce the active support of Tree House Youth Theatre, an organization that has been helping young performers have extraordinary theatre experiences for over twenty years. Tree House has agreed to act as an umbrella organization to help artsparks on the boards go on into the New Year with an eye to presenting "Camp Dry Heave" the latest installment from the "town" of Dry Heave, Alberta, which will take place in June of 2010. This generous support will enable them to re group, re focus and examine their options for continuing on and into the future and we thank Tree House for their ongoing commitment to youth, persons with developmental disabilities and the community at large. "let the play begin!" To contribute or to learn more about artsparks on the boards, please contact, Lucinda Sheardown at ls.cada@telus.net or by calling 403-341-5508. Cheques should be made out to Tree House Youth Theatre.

artsparks at the museum's fall program has wrapped up for the year and is on a break until we return to the newly renovated museum in January. The program will have a new name and a new studio in 2010! The winter program will continue with the same Open Studio format on Monday-Wednesday-Friday afternoons. The exact date will be announced in January. Contact the MAG if you have any questions.

artsparks at the library is pleased to offer a new bi weekly Writer's Club at the library which will be open for all Let's Write program members and everyone else who would like to try out creative writing. Albertus Koett will be the Writer's Club instructor. Adult Stories is another monthly program at the library that is open for everyone. All library programs are accessible, fun and free for all Red Deer residents and visitors. Any questions related to the library programming for PDD community should be addressed to Tatiana Poliakevitch, Community Development Librarian at 403- 318-9312.

artsparks beloved Let's Sing choir and Let's Act program will continue welcoming everyone twice a month at the HUB at 4936 Ross Street, where the HUB friendly staff provides opportunities for people to connect. Phone 403-340-4869 for more information.