ELANews

The Newsletter of the English-Language Arts Network

Director's Message

It would be premature and hubristic (even without slipping into a flight suit) to declare, 'Mission Accomplished.' ELAN is still defining its mission yet the time has come to move on to the next level.

The idea of creating a multi-disciplinary network of artists was conceived at the Quebec Art Summit in 2004. Most of the artists who attended the Summit had been busy for years and decades honing their craft and establishing working relationships based on artistic vision rather than language. Many had deliberately kept their distance from the larger English-speaking community because it often seemed more interested in bemoaning lost glories than in embracing new opportunities. The biggest shock of the QAS was to discover dozens of other people who embodied a new Anglo identity. We had a lot to share. Creating a network was an idea whose time had come.

My commitment to ELAN was to put in place structures and resources required to make the idea a reality. That much has been accomplished. A strong, experienced board that represents all disciplines meets monthly to strengthen the network. Our multi-faceted website displays the range and quality of work produced by ELAN members. The 1000th member joined during May. A growing number of artists are actively involved in ELAN activities. And sufficient funding has been secured to hire a full time director.

Like most of you, I am a working artist. It has been one of the most enjoyable adventures of my life to get ELAN up and running, but I won't deny it has been a struggle to pursue my own projects while overseeing three years of rapid growth. ELAN needs a full-time director and now has the resources to hire one. That process begins today as we open the search for full-time Executive Director who will take ELAN to the next level.

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What's New?

New Friends

ELAN is expanding its networking capacity, with guidance and encouragement from our student interns Elizabeth and Aimee. As those of you who use Facebook and Myspace already know, these cyber communities are a powerful tool for spreading messages or promoting events. ELAN is now connected and invites you to join us on Facebook and Myspace. Add "Elan Arts" as your friend on Facebook and "ELAN" on Myspace. These two new pages are a great way to hear about breaking news and events or chat with other ELAN members through our Myspace Blog and our Facebook Wall. Log on to FaceBook and MySpace to add ELAN as your friend today. Those of you who are not yet users should check it out. It you need some help getting started, contact the office with Facebook in the subject line.

The Schmoozer

schmooze \'shmüz\ vb 1: socialize: talk to people: mill about: have a drink: meet new people: see old friends: forget about work for a few hours

Monday, June 11, 5–7pm

Summer location, with an outdoor terrace
Le Saint Bock
1749 rue St-Denis
Between Ontario and de Maisonneuve
(South of Sherbrooke Metro or north of Berri-UQAM)
Admission: ELAN Members $2; Guests $5
Cash Bar

Book the second Monday of every month for ELAN's Schmoozer.Fifty people joined us in May, including a large contingent from the YES conference. The schmoozer is an opportunity to meet artists working in all disciplines in a relaxed ambience. Marilyn Casselman and her team will provide lessons in schmoozing to ensure that no one remains a stranger. To help us cater for the Schmoozer, please RSVP to the ELAN office by sending an email to admin@quebec-elan.org with Schmoozer in the subject line.

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Opportunities for Artists

Calls for Submissions

All Disciplines
Writing, Poetry, and Art Wanted for Book About Motherhood

The University of Regina is extending a call to all who wish to contribute to an interdisciplinary anthology about motherhood in Canada. Creative non-fiction, personal reflections, scholarly writing, critical essays, and poetry and art on themes associated with motherhood are welcome. Topics include (but are not limited to): becoming a mother (breastfeeding, midwifery, pregnancy, birthing, post partum), being a mother (mothering late in life, single parenting, multiple births, childhood illnesses), supporting mothers (public policy, mothers in academia/work/school, institutional support) and empowering mothers (feminism, stay-at-home mothers, supermoms). Submissions may be in either English or French, and must be postmarked or E-mailed by 31 August 2007. Send submissions to:

English:
Dr. Lynn Loutzenhiser, Department of Psychology
University of Regina
3737 Wascana Parkway
Regina, SK S4X 2S1

French:
Dr. Jocelyne Praud, Department of Political Science
University of Regina
3737 Wascana Parkway
Regina, SK S4X 2S1

Artwork:
Prof. Leesa Streifler, Department of Visual Arts
University of Regina
3737 Wascana Parkway
Regina, SK S4S 0A2

Or E-mail: motheringcanada@yahoo.ca

Performing Arts
Actors and Directors Needed for Art Relay

Indyish is calling for actors and directors to take part in Assembly 2.0, an international, collaborative art relay scheduled during the Fringe Festival. Groups of actors and directors will be assigned 10-minute scripts, and will then have 48 hours to produce the scripts. The final plays will be performed during Fringe's closing weekend. Sign-up can be by groups of actors or individual actors who will then be assigned a group. Participants must be available from 11 to 16 June. To sign up, visit our website. For more information, E-mail assembly@indyish.com.

Call for Nominations—Siminovitch Prize for Theatre Directing

The Elinore & Lou Siminovitch Prize in Theatre honours professional directors, playwrights, and designers by acknowledging excellence and encouraging further exploration in Canadian theatre. The Siminovitch Prize is Canada's largest annual theatre arts award, and awards $100,000 annually. The 2007 Siminovitch Prize in Theatre will be given to a professional director who has advanced Canadian theatre through a body of work achieved in recent years, while influencing and inspiring younger theatre artists. For more information on the nomination process, visit the Siminovitch Prizes' website.

Examinations Available with the Central Conservatory of Music of China

The Canadian Association of Oriental Fine Arts (CAOFA), in collaboration with the British Columbia Chinese Music Association, will host Chinese instrumental performance examinations in November in Montreal. Participants will be tested based on the Central Conservatory of Music of China's (CCOM) guidelines, and will be subsequently issued a certificate of accomplishment by the CCOM. CCOM is China's most senior musical institute offering accredited examinations to applicants, and their mandate includes expanding musical education by promoting the stylistic tradition of Chinese instrumental music overseas. The deadline to apply for examinations is 15 June 2007. For details on the application procedure, contact Chih-Lin Chou or the CAOFA directly.

Shaw Festival—Applications for Directors' Project Now Being Accepted

Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, has just announced their annual " Shaw Directors' Project." Each year, the Shaw Festival hires two intern directors from mid-March to late August. These positions are salaried at an apprentice level, between $500 and $600 per week. Each intern is assigned two or three successive shows in the capacity of assistant director. The Interns also assist the company by educating audiences about theatre in general and the Shaw's productions and programs in particular. The intern directors have free time built into some portions of the season, and are therefore free to take academy classes and pursue other theatrical projects that interest them.

Applications for the intern director positions are made through Theatre Ontario, with a June 2007 deadline to begin residency in March 2008. Interested applicants should submit a resumé with a cover letter that explains why the applicant would like to be an intern director at the Shaw Festival. Applicants must be Canadian citizens, and the application deadline is 29 June 2007.

Send applications by mail to:
Theatre Ontario
Att: Tim Chapman, Shaw Directors' Project
215 Spadina Ave. Ste. 210
Toronto, ON
M5T 2C7

For questions about the program or application process, contact Tim Chapman via E-mail or at (416) 408-4556.

Writing / Publishing
This Magazine—11th Annual Literary Contest

Now in its 11th year, This Magazine's Great Canadian Literary Hunt is on the trail of Canada's brightest new creative writers. Enter by 1 July 2007 in order to join This Magazine's 41-year-long tradition of presenting the best in Canadian writing. The winners of two categories (fiction and poetry) are each awarded a prize of $750, and 2nd and 3rd place winners in each category are also named. All winners will be published in the Nov/Dec 2007 issue. The entry fee is $20, which includes a one-year subscription to This Magazine. For more information, visit This Magazine's website or send an E-mail.

Warehouse Theatre—International Playwriting Competition 2007

Warehouse Theatre Company's International Playwriting Festival will celebrate its 22nd anniversary in 2007. The festival is held in two parts: the first is a competition in which entries from all over the world are judged by a panel of distinguished theatre practitioners; the second is the festival itself which showcases the winning plays from the competition. The festival will take place on 24–25 November 2007. The deadline for submissions is 30 June.

For more information on the competition, visit Warehouse Theatre's website.

Employment Opportunities

Urgent Productions Seeks Technical Help

Urgent Productions needs an audio technician and two stagehands for its upcoming Fringe production, "Bad Weather." The audio technician must be able to run two CD players with the pre-recorded audio track during a live performance, responding to verbal and visual cues throughout show. The stagehands will move props and set elements backstage during performances. All must be available for technical rehearsals the first week of June and for seven performances from 9 to 17 June. If interested, please contact Patrick Charron ASAP.

New Theatre Company Needs Talent

Altera Vitae Productions, a new Montreal-based theatre company, is currently seeking personnel in many capacities. Altera Vitae Productions is now accepting submissions from actors (any age, ethnicity, English or French), playwrights, directors, stage managers, costume designers, set designers, and lighting and sound technicians.

Send headshots and/or resumes to:
General Auditions
Altera Vitae Productions
3830–B Dandurand
Montreal, QC H1X 1P2
audition@alteravitae.com

For more information, visit Altera Vitae's website.

Tableau D'Hote Theatre Seeks Actors

On Saturday, 2 June and Sunday, 3 June, Tableau D'Hôte Theatre will hold General Auditions for its 2007–08 season. Planned for the 2007–08 season are three mainstage productions and several staged readings. If interested in auditioning, please forward headshot and resume by E-mail with the subject line "General Auditions" (if you have a preference for the date and time of your audition, please indicate it in your E-mail). Auditioners are asked to prepare two contrasting, two-minute monologues and a short song.

Casting Call for Child Actor

Beholden Productions is seeking a child actor (girl, preferably aged four) to appear in film footage that will be used for an upcoming Fringe production of "One Night in Berlin." The final segment will be approximately two minutes long, and shooting can be done at parents' home if needed. If you are interested in this casting, send an E-mail with a picture of the child actor to Beholden Productions. If you have any questions about "One Night in Berlin" or the production in general, call Liesl at (514) 207-8137.

Le Groupe de la Veillée—Responsable des communications

Le Groupe de la Veillée est une compagnie de création théâtrale; la troupe gère également un lieu de diffusion le théâtre Prospero où sont présentés, chaque saison, les spectacles de plusieurs compagnies en accueil. La personne occupant ce poste a la responsabilité de planifier et de réaliser les activités du secteur des communications et de diriger les opérations de développement de public.

Responsabilités

  • Concevoir, en collaboration avec la direction générale et respectant l'esprit artistique qui anime la compagnie, les campagnes de promotion des différents spectacles du Groupe de la Veillée et les réaliser;
  • Organiser la campagne d'abonnement (Passeport Prospero), le lancement de la saison, et planifier les activités de développement de public incluant le scolaire;
  • Rédiger les communiqués, documents pédagogiques, constituer les dossiers de presse;
  • Constituer des documents qui représentent bien la compagnie auprès de différentes instances publiques et politiques et auprès d'éventuels commanditaires ou partenaires;
  • Accompagner, par un suivi et des consultations, les compagnies en accueil au Prospero dans l'aspect promotionnel de leurs productions;
  • Gérer le budget relatif à ce secteur.

Exigences

  • Minimum de quatre ans d'expérience professionnelle en communication marketing et en développement de public;
  • Très bonne connaissance des arts de la scène;
  • Excellentes capacités rédactionnelles en français, maîtrise du français écrit, connaissance usuelle de l'anglais;
  • Maîtrise des principaux logiciels (File maker, Word, Excel, Power Point, Internet);

La poste est 4 jours semaine, entrée en fonction en août.

Veuillez faire parvenir votre lettre de motivation ou de présentation et C.V. par courriel à partir d'aujourd'hui jusqu'au 10 juin.

Le Musée d'art de Joliette—Directeur/Directrice développement
Profil de l'institution

Important musée d'art situé en région au Québec, le Musée d'art de Joliette est reconnu pour son engagement dans la promotion de l'art québécois, canadien et étranger, tant dans ses aspects historiques que contemporains. La diffusion des contenus y est assurée via un ensemble élaboré de programmes comprenant des expositions permanentes et temporaires, des mises en tournée ici et à l'étranger, des expositions virtuelles, des activités éducatives pour tous les groupes d'âge et des publications diverses. Le Musée valorise un ancrage solide dans la communauté proche et aussi un rayonnement le plus étendu possible.

Nature du poste

Le directeur, développement élabore la stratégie de collecte de fonds et en supervise la mise en œuvre. Les éléments de cette stratégie englobent les dons importants, les dons d'entreprise, les demandes de subvention et les ressources en nature. Il s'agit d'un poste contractuel de 1 an, renouvelable.

Principales fonctions et responsabilités
  • Planifier les activités de développement de fonds;
  • Mettre en œuvre les plans de développement de fonds conformément aux principes d'éthique en matière de collecte de fonds;
  • Organiser les activités de développement de fonds;
  • Identifier les donateurs potentiels—entreprises, collectivités et individus—et entretenir des relations avec ces donateurs en tenant compte des priorités de collecte de fonds de l'organisme ;
  • Préparer et présenter les demandes de subvention prévues dans le plan de développement de fonds en vue de générer des rentrées de fonds au profit de l'organisme;
  • Établir un plan global de communication en vue de faire la promotion de l'organisme auprès de ses donateurs et de sensibiliser le plus possible le public aux activités de collecte de fonds de l'organisme;
  • Coordonner la conception, l'impression et la distribution de documents de marketing et de communication à l'appui des efforts de développement;
  • Recruter le personnel à affecter aux activités de développement de fonds;
  • Gérer le budget du développement de fonds.
Exigences

Le candidat idéal aura un diplôme universitaire de second cycle ainsi qu'une formation en gestion des organismes culturels et en marketing en plus de des connaissances du milieu muséal. Une expérience minimale de deux ans en collecte de fonds en gestion de projets, en plus d'habiletés en matière de coordination seront des atouts recherchés. De fortes compétences dans un environnement informatisé utilisant les logiciels Microsoft Office sont nécessaires. La capacité à travailler en équipe, le dynamisme, l'autonomie, le sens de l'initiative et l'attention aux détails seront des qualités essentielles.

  • Connaissances, compétences et aptitudes
  • Connaissance de la gestion de la collecte de fonds;
  • Connaissance des lois fédérales et provinciales régissant les organismes culturels;
  • Connaissance de la planification et de la gestion des événements spéciaux;
  • Connaissance de la gestion des bénévoles;
  • Grande créativité; expérience en gestion de projets, sens de l'organisation et habiletés en matière de coordination;
  • Grande habileté à communiquer et à créer des contacts;
  • Excellente maîtrise du français et de l'anglais à l'oral et à l'écrit.
Mise en candidature

Les dépôts de candidature seront acceptés jusqu'au lundi 25 juin 2007. Nous encourageons tous les candidats qualifiés à postuler. Le dossier de candidature devra comprendre une lettre de motivation et un curriculum vitae.

Entrée en fonction et horaire

L'emploi débute en juillet 2007, selon un horaire de base de 35 heures par semaine, du lundi au vendredi. Selon les événements et activités, le titulaire peut être également appelé à travailler les soirs et les fins de semaine.

Les candidats doivent faire parvenir sous pli confidentiel leur dossier complet à l'attention de:
Gaëtane Verna
Directrice générale
Musée d'art de Joliette
145, rue du Père Wilfrid-Corbeil
Joliette, Québec
J6E 4T4

Quatre compagnies de danse contemporaine—Agent à la diffusion et au développment
Description de poste

Un consortium formé de 4 compagnies de danse contemporaine (Cas Public, Danse-Cité, Louise Bédard Danse, Montréal Danse) dont les objectifs en terme de diffusion s'énumèrent comme suit:

  1. Soutenir le développement et la diffusion;
  2. Accéder à des réseaux de producteurs, co-producteurs, diffuseurs, co-diffuseurs et d'artistes et développer des contacts fructueux;
  3. Prolonger la durée de vie des œuvres.
Responsabilités
  • Identifier et développer les marchés spécifiques pour chacune des compagnies;
  • Développer et en maintenir à jour une banque de données de producteurs, de diffuseurs et de créateurs en danse contemporaine;
  • Coordonner les efforts des agents territoriaux déjà en place pour quelques compagnies;
  • Participer, avec les directions des compagnies, à la planification du développement de marché international et conseiller les compagnies à ce sujet;
  • Faire le démarchage nécessaire (téléphones, courriels, présence à des marchés, etc.) pour entretenir les contacts déjà établis et en établir de nouveaux;
  • Négociant et assurer le suivi des contrats;
  • Assurer le suivi budgétaire et en respecter les limites données par les directions;
  • Contribuer à la préparation de demandes de subvention;
  • Développer le matériel de promotion nécessaire pour le consortium.
Qualités requises
  • Possède 5 années d'expérience dans la vente à l'international;
  • Initiative et autonomie;
  • Enthousiasme et talents de communication;
  • Grand intérêt pour les arts de la scène;
  • Sens de l'organisation et rigueur;
  • Disponibilité pour voyager et travailler occasionnellement soirs et fins de semaine;
  • Maîtrise du français et de l'anglais; troisième langue un atout;
  • Excellente maîtrise de l'environnement informatique.

Références nécessaires sur demande. Entrée en fonction: 13 août 2007

Envoyer votre CV avant le lundi 4 juin 2007, 17h par courriel.

Parbleux—Poste de responsable des communications

Parbleux est une compagnie de danse en constance croissance qui réalise annuellement de nombreaux projets dont l'envergure mobilise des collaborations nationales et internationales.

Tâches
  • Particpe activement á la réflexione globale des mécanisme promotionnels entourant les activités de la compagnie;
  • Conçoit et applique un plan de communication refletant la particularité de la compagnie;
  • Voit à accroître la notoriété de la compagnie;
  • Assure les relations avec les médias;
  • Procède à la mise à jour et au suivi du site web;
  • Actualise le matériel promotionnel de la compagnie;
  • Collecte les informations pour la rédaction des communiqués de presse, textes du dossier de presse, des programmes de spectacles et autres documents;
  • Identifie et classe le matériel servant à la promotion et à la diffusion;
  • Rédige les documents promotionnels de la compagnie;
  • Veille à l'assemblage et à la diffusion des outils promotionnels;
  • Diffuse les communiqués de presse;
  • Effectue les envois de document de communication;
  • Développe des outils promotionnels originaux reliés aux médias électroniques;
  • Conserve à jour les listes d'envoi de la compagnie.
Profil
  • Apte à travailler au sein d'une petite équipe qui se partage les responsabilités;
  • Capacite à collaborer en collégialité;
  • Créative, concrète, autonome et très organisée;
  • Maîtrise un français impeccable;
  • Possède un très bonne conaissance de l'anglais;
  • Excellentes capacités rédactionnelles;
  • Bonne connaissance des environments Word, Excel, File Maker, PhotoShop;
  • Possède le sens des responsabilités et le souci de l'excellence;
  • Flexibilité;
  • Très bonne connaissance de l'Internet et des outils pouvant y être utilisés;
  • Dynamisme, curiosité.

Cette poste est sur un base de 3 jours par semaine. Salaire selon l'experience. Veuillez faire parvenir votre CV, accompagné d'une lettre de présentation, avant le 8 juin 2007 par courriel.

Oboro—Coordinateur/trice à la programmation

Oboro est un centre d'artistes dont le champ d'action couvre les arts visuels et médiatiques, les arts des nouvelles scènes et les pratiques émergentes. Nous tenons simultanément des activités de recherche, de production, de présentation, de diffusion et de formation. Elles prennent, entre autres, la forme de résidences, de commandes d'oeuvres, d'expositions, de présentations visuelles, sonores et multimedia, de conférences et rencontres, de performances, de publications, d'ateliers et laboratoires d'expérimentation, d'incarnations réseau faisant appel aux technologies de l'information et des communications, ainsi que d'événements spéciaux d'envergure.

Les tâches incluent:

  • Planification, gestion et suivi de la logistique des activités
  • Négociation des ententes contractuelles avec les artistes
  • Contribution aux communications
  • Plainification et gestion des budgets d'activités
  • Supervision du travail de montage et de démontage lié aux expositions, événements et autres activités
  • Contribution aux demandes de subvention et de financement liées aux projets
  • Avis de faisabilité sur certaines activités envisagées

Qualifications recherchées:

  • Formation universitaire de premier cycle ou équivalent
  • 3 à 5 ans d'expérience dans un emploi similaire
  • Bilinguisme français-anglais
  • Excellentes habiletés de rédaction
  • Connaissance et compréhension du fonctionnement d'un centre d'artistes
  • Connaissance du secteur artistique et culturel
  • Connaissance des logiciels Word, Excel, File Maker et de l'environnement Macintosh

C'est une poste permanent à temps plein, 35 heures par semaine. Entrée en fonction le 17 septembre 2007. Rémunération concurrentielle. Les personnes intéressées doivent faire parvenir, par courriel seulement, leus CV accompagné d'une lettre de motivation au plus tard le 6 juin 2007.

Playwrights' Workshop Montreal—Artistic and Executive Director

Playwrights' Workshop Montreal (PWM) is currently accepting applications for the position of Artistic & Executive Director. PWM is a membership-based, national play development centre providing dramaturgical resources to playwrights and translators at every stage of the evolution of their work. From dramaturgical consultation through to public readings, PWM offers a critical and vibrant environment for Canadian playwrights of both official languages to further their craft and best prepare new scripts for production.

PWM is seeking a bilingual individual with the following qualifications:

  • Approximately ten years' experience in the field of new play development;
  • An in-depth knowledge of the principles and practices of dramaturgy;
  • A proven track record of developing plays for production;
  • Knowledge of the professional Canadian theatre, collaboration with the theatre companies and their directors and professional theatre organizations;
  • The ability to work with an annual budget of approximately $300,000.

The duties of the Artistic and Executive Director include:

  • Providing dramaturgical assistance to the membership;
  • Programming and supervising the annual schedule of play readings, workshops, residencies, master classes and other public events;
  • Building relationships with producers and producing companies;
  • Promoting the organization;
  • Traveling nationally to meet with playwrights and theatre companies;
  • Supervising the budgeting and the expenditures of the organization;
  • Coordinating annual fundraising activities, including grant applications to public and private sources, as well as other solicitations for funds;
  • Supervising all other employees of the organization;
  • Managing the day-to-day affairs of the organization;
  • Reporting to the Board of Directors.

The salary, to commensurate with experience, will be between $35,000 and $40,000, and will include benefits and six weeks' paid vacation. The successful candidate should be available to start on 1 August 2007. The deadline for applications is 4 June 2007.

Forward applications to:
Search Committee
Playwrights' Workshop Montréal
P.O. Box 604, Station Place d'Armes
Montreal, QC H2Y 3H8

Or by E-mail to: adsearch@playwrights.ca

CAMMAC—Executive Director

CAMMAC is currently seeking a dynamic Executive Director to lead CAMMAC, a national organization devoted to creating opportunities for musicians of all levels to make music together in a relaxed, non-competitive atmosphere. The organization has just completed the construction of a year-round, $5.4 million music centre and concert hall.

Based out of the CAMMAC office in Harrington, QC, the Executive Director will be responsible for leading CAMMAC to its next stage of development. This will include the development of year-round programming for the new music centre as well as consolidating the governance and administration of the organization to keep pace with its expanded activities. The Executive Director will be responsible for the organization's overall management, as well as the management of two music centres and regional volunteer committees.

Responsibilities:
  • Provide visionary leadership to a leading national, bilingual, cultural organization
  • Maintain and develop effective relationships with government and business leaders, donors and members
  • Develop and implement fundraising plans and strategies
  • Maintain and develop a motivated and effective staff team
  • Be the principal spokesperson for a leading arts organization
  • Oversee and ensure the financial well-being of a registered charity
Qualifications:
  • Bilingual
  • University degree with strong knowledge and love of music
  • Visionary leader with entrepreneurial spirit and strategic planning abilities
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Team player with energetic personality and proven management skills
  • Knowledge and experience in raising funds from major donors and corporations
  • Knowledge and experience in financial management and marketing
  • Experience working with boards and with the non-profit sector (preferably in the arts sector)
  • Experience in research and proposal writing for governments and foundations
  • Excellent supervisory and personnel management skills and experience
  • Computer literate and able to use appropriate software
  • Experience in artistic direction would be an asset

This position requires occasional travel mainly within Ontario and Quebec. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. The new Executive Director will, ideally, begin work in late August 2007. Interested applicants should send a cover letter and CV by E-mail to the Search Committee. The deadline for applications is 8 June.

Volunteer Opportunities

QNEK Productions Needs Singing Pirates

QNEK Productions, the resident theatre company of the Haskell Opera House in Stanstead, QC, is looking for male singers (aged 13 and up) to perform as pirates in a production of Gilbert & Sullivan's The Pirates of Penzance. Rehearsals begin in June, and production dates are 10, 11, 12, 17, and 18 August. For more information, contact QNEK via E-mail or call Artistic Director Lynn Leimer at (802) 334-6498.

2007 Montreal Celtic Sessions Festival—Volunteers Needed

Montreal Celtic Sessions is a week-long festival filled with music and talks given by writers, singers, and others involved in Celtic music. The festival takes place from 17 to 23 June 2007 at various downtown Montreal locations. Volunteers are currently needed in order to make the festival a success. For more information, contact info@bodhranbabe.com or go to www.elizabeth-johnston.com.

Theatre Volunteers Required for Production of "Fool for Love"

Nervous Hunter Productions is presenting "Fool for Love" by Sam Shepard at the Montreal Fringe from 7 to 17 June 2007. ELAN members Sophie Gee (director) and Matt Ritchie (actor) are looking for volunteers to fill the following positions:

Front-of-House:
  • Pick up tickets from Fringe office
  • Count float
  • Sell tickets 30 minutes before show, tally tickets sold, run money back to Fringe
  • Fold programs
  • Send away latecomers
Venue Manager:
  • Set up audience chairs and on-stage set
  • Stay backstage during the show to help with handling props
  • Send away latecomers

Compensation includes free tickets to the show. Showtimes are as follows:
7–10 and 12–16 June: 7.30 pm
17 June: 4.00 pm

Interested volunteers should contact Sophie Gee by E-mail or at (514) 312-3671.

Villiage Scene Productions Seeks Musicians

Classical guitarist or other musicians are sought by Village Scene Productions for a special event in mid-June. If you or someone you know is looking for some exposure and plays classical music, please contact Davyn Ryall at (514) 240-4985 or by E-mail.

Boyz Nite Out Fundraiser

As part of its tenth anniversary season, Out Productions is seeking short volunteer acts for an open-mic fundraising event celebrating the very male experience. Whether you're a DJ, multi-media artist, dancer, singer, performance artist, or writer, this is a great opportunity to experiment! Artists from all walks of life are invited to submit material in either English or French. A date for the fundraiser will be announced in the fall. Send your CV/bio and a proposal (max. 500 words) by E-mail.

Volunteer with "Apathy is Boring'"

"Apathy is Boring" is a youth-run, Montreal-based non-profit organization focused on getting mainstream Canadian youth involved in democracy. "Apathy is Boring" uses music, art, and technology to communicate its message with Canadian youth. Volunteers are always needed, whether in the head office, online, or as support for special events. Anyone with a computer and some free time can contribute by writing website content, posting news, tagging relevant articles, etc. For more information, visit our website, E-mail, or call (514) 844-2472 or (877) 744-2472.

Gift "Rappers" Sought by Village Scene Productions

You don't have to be good at 'wrapping a gift' to be a gifted "Rapper!" Capable "Rap" artists who are looking for an opportunity to expose their talent and compete in a staged "Battle of the Rappers'" during a special Fringe event should contact: Davyn Ryall by email or at 514 240-4985. Materials will be provided.

Material from Film Composers and Local Musicians Wanted

The MFG is planning its next party to be held on 12 June 2007 at Balroom Bar on St-Laurent. With the aim of shining the spotlight on local composers, bands, and solo musicians, MFG wants to play your music at the party by creating a playlist of submitted tracks to be played during the party. If interested, send 2 to 3 of your best original, up-tempo, crowd-pleasing MP3 tracks to MFG. Also plan to market your music by putting demos, CVs, flyers, cards, etc. on display in the music area. Deadline for E-mailing MP3s is 8 June. Send submissions to ezra@pressuredrop.com.

Performers Needed for South Shore Black Community Family Day

South Shore Community Partners Network's Black Community Family Day will take place on 14 July 2007 starting at 2.00 pm at Brossard (Rome Blvd.). Entertainment will feature a wide range of dance, poetry, and other performing arts. People of all ages are invited to audition (which is mandatory). Prizes will be given. To arrange an audition, call and leave a message at either (450) 465-1506 or (450) 678-8949.

Upcoming Grant Deadlines

Please check the Canada Council website for more information on the programs listed below, or call (800) 263-5588 ext. 5060.

All Disciplines
Artists and Community Collaboration Program

Various dates

Media Arts
Governor General's Awards in Visual and Media Arts

29 June 2007

Visual Arts
Acquisition Assistance for Art Museums and Public Galleries

Any time

Governor General's Awards in Visual and Media Arts

29 June 2007

Writing and Publishing
International Translation Grants

Any time

Public Lending Right Commission

The Public Lending Right (PLR) Commission administers a program of payments to Canadian authors for their eligible books catalogued in public libraries across Canada.

Registration period: 15 February to 1 May 2008.

For information, call (800) 521-5721 (toll-free) or (613) 566-4378 or E-mail plr@canadacouncil.ca

Travel Grants

Applications for travel grants can be submitted at any time (at least 6-10 weeks before departure date—varies with each section). This applies to the following disciplines: Aboriginal Arts, Dance, Music, Theatre, Media Arts, Writing and Publishing, InterArts, Audience and Market Development. Please check the Canada Council website for more information.

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Member News

Want to know what your fellow ELAN members are up to? This month, we have info about the following members:

Repercussion Theatre

Repercussion Theatre regrets to announce the departure of Kevin Orr as Artistic Director. Orr has been doing double duty, lending his vision to Repercussion Theatre in Montreal while serving as Associate Professor at the University of Ottawa; he has withdrawn from his post at Repercussion Theatre in order to concentrate on his work in Ottawa. Even though Kevin will be sorely missed by all at Repercussion Theatre, the vision that he set in place for the coming season will be realized by Repercussion Theatre veteran Amanda Kellock. Kellock will direct this summer's production of "Molière's Les Fourberies de Scapin" in both English and French versions.

John Hetherington

John Hetherington's new online video series exploring Canadian views on abortion made its debut on 13 May. Taking his two young children with him for much of his journey from Newfoundland to Vancouver Island, Hetherington, a stay-at-home dad and multi-disciplinary artist, asked close to two thousand Canadians on the street the simple yet soul-searching question, "What's your view on abortion?" The responses, which are very personal, thought-provoking, and entertaining, clearly depict that there is no consensus on abortion in Canada. The series of short 'streeter' films focuses on various regions and cities throughout the country, and original episodes will be regularly posted online.

Robert Howell

Robert Howell recently launched his juvenile novel titled Third Times the Charm at Chapters in Pointe-Claire, QC. The novel is now available in most Chapters stores.

The Darling DeMaes

The Montreal-based Darling DeMaes' debut EP "Winter Keep Us Warm" is now available online at www.darlingdemaes.com. "Winter Keep Us Warm," recorded live at Red Rhino Studios, draws on a lost panoramic style to produce an organic quality reminiscent of '60s studio sessions.

Pat Camozzi

Montreal children's author Pat Camozzi has just had his first children's picture book Pasta Pazoo, More Better Spaghetti become part of a Massachusetts community cable channel television production. Producers at SATV9 in Somerset, MA, chose the book as part of a children's reading program. The show included a live reading of the book.

Nigel Spencer

Nigel has recently finished translating Augustino and the Choir of Destruction, the third book in Marie-Claire Blais' novel series Soifs, as well as subtitling the Baz'art documentary series for DB Communications (broadcast recently on Bravo Channel). Spencer will be in residence at the Banff Centre this summer to work on translating the novel The Seasons in Hell of Young Ayyâz by the exiled Iranian writer Reza Baraheni, who is currently living in Ottawa under support from Pen Canada.

Melanie Shatzky

Melanie Shatzky and Brian M. Cassidy's short "The Delaware Project" (which premiered at the Rotterdam International Film Festival in January) was just awarded the 2007 EMAF Award at the European Media Art Festival in Osnabruck, Germany. The film is about a young woman's sense of sickness and displacement in a rapidly developing landscape. To learn more about the film and the filmmakers, visit www.pigeonprojects.com.

Abu Jafar

Abu Jafar's 'Wonder Burghley,' a site-specific sculpture created in collaboration with Ewa Wawrzyniak, is currently on display in the garden at Burghley Park in Stamford, England. 'Wonder Burghley' is a combination of sculpture, painting, and installation that has 12 structures made with wood, blown glass, line-drawing, and nature. Its exhibition will continue until 28 October 2007.

Beverly Akerman

Beverly Akerman is pleased to announce that four of her short stories have been accepted for publication over the last six months or so. Akerman's work will be published in upcoming issues of Descant, The Nashwaak Review, Red Wheelbarrow, and Rio Grande Review.

Raquel Rivera

Raquel Rivera's recent children's book Arctic Adventures: Tales from the Lives of Inuit Artists has just been released by Toronto-based publisher Groundwood Books. Michele Landsberg writes in the May 2007 edition of Quill & Quire: "Rivera gives us a taste of a vanished way of life, a sense of the unimaginable hardships that shaped these artists' characters, and a glimpse of the work that grew so organically from their experiences on the land."

David James

Glass artist David James of Sutton, QC has had his sculpture "Heaven & Earth" selected by the Vancouver-based Multifaith Action Society for its 2008 calendar, following a national call for submissions. Earlier this year, the same sculpture was selected for an exhibition celebrating the Year of Craft in Canada mounted by the Newfoundland & Labrador Craft Council. "Heaven & Earth" has also been exhibited at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia. James' two-part piece consists of a six-inch, cobalt blue glass ball sitting on a colourless cast glass base with one side brilliantly polished allowing one to see internal veiling and the texture of rock on the opposite side. It is a limited edition of twelve.

Julie Hamel

Hamel has been invited to read one of her tri-lingual poems during this season's Noches de Poesia. Also, one of her short scripts is among the winners of the Dynamic Theatre Factory's Festival recently held in May.

Donna Stella Vekteris

Donna Stella Vekteris recently received second place in QWF's Quebec Writing Competition for her short story "The Iguana Revisited." Vekteris' winning story was read on the CBC Radio show Cinq à Six on 26 May, and will be published in Maisonneuve Magazine (September 2007) and an anthology published by Véhicule Press (April 2008).

Alisha Ruiss

Alisha Ruiss has been chosen as one of ten finalists in The Spotlight Musical Theatre Challenge, organized by the Centre for Education and Theatre in Montreal. The winner will advance to compete in Broadway Idol at the New York Music Theatre Festival in the fall. The finals in Montreal will take place on 11 June 2007 at Centre Calixa-Lavallée. For details and tickets please contact Janis Kirshner by email or at (514) 287-8912.

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Workshops & Seminars

All Disciplines

Creative Spacemaking Workshop

Artscape's Creative Spacemaking Workshop will take place from 7 to 8 June 2007 in Hamilton, ON. The Creative Spacemaking Workshop focuses on anchoring creative communities within sustainable and affordable spaces that provide environments for collaboration, experimentation, and innovation. This two-day workshop offers leading advice, tools, and a chance to meet experts during interactive sessions on topics including community engagement, project planning, capital fundraising, and governance models. Guided site tours of the Imperial Cotton Centre for the Arts and creative spaces in the James Street North Arts District also provide concrete examples. Final registration closes on 4 June 2007, and registration fees are $295 + GST. Download the Registration Form in Word format.

A limited number of bursaries are available to artists: please contact Toronto Artscape at (416) 392-1038 ext. 49 or by E-mail for details.

Performing Arts

Montreal School of the Performing Arts Presents "$10 Fridays" Workshop Series

Each week, MSOPA offers a different two-hour workshop on Fridays for $10. No registration or long-term commitment is required. MSOPA will be offering workshops on monologues, improvisation, movement, sketch comedy, Shakespeare, and more. This is a great opportunity to get interested friends to join you in the "acting" experience. For more information or a complete listing of the "$10 Fridays" series, go to the MSOPA website or E-mail us.

Ahuri Theatre Offering Two Physical Theatre Workshops

Ahuri Theatre is planning two physical theatre workshops. The first, called "Body in Play: Rhythm, Space, Dynamics," is for professional and emerging performers interested in creating their own work. Based on the work of famed theatre teacher Jacques Lecoq, participants will explore the physical dynamics inherent in theatrical creation. "Body in Play" takes place from 18 to 22 June from 6.00 to 9.00 pm.

The second workshop, "Neutral Mask," constructs physical exercise and improvisations with the mask in order to help participants discover a state of neutrality (calm receptiveness) in the world around them. "Neutral Mask" takes place from 23 to 24 June from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm. Fees are $150 for one workshop or $250 for both. All workshops take place at Playwrights' Workshop Montreal, 4324 boul. St-Laurent. For more information or to register, contact (514) 680-4656 or E-mail us.

Visual Arts

Pontiac School for the Arts Presents Adult Artists' Workshop Series

The Pontiac School for the Arts is holding their Adult Artists' Workshop Series from 7 to 9 July in the village of Portage du Fort on the shores of the Ottawa River. In this 3-day program, students will have the opportunity to explore various unique art forms, working at their own level and pace. Each day in the series offers 2 different workshops. Students can register for any of the one-day courses, or for all 3. Students who attend all 3 days will discover that the courses build on each other with the aim of producing a final portfolio of artwork. Offerings include stained glass with Karen Cummings, embossing handmade paper by Valerie Bridgeman, cartoons & caricature by Kate Aley, and digital images by Eric Fletcher, Course registration, travel, accommodation information can be found on the Pontiac School for the Arts Website. For more information, E-mail us or phone (819) 647-2291.

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ELAN Classifieds

New Production Company Open for Business

Firefly Video Productions is open for business. Firefly will film staged performances, shoot music videos, produce movies, etc. at reasonable prices. Please visit the Firefly Video website for more information.

Administrative Support Available

Arts Administrative Services offers professional administrative services to artists and arts organizations when the need arises. Services are available in order to free artists and arts organizations from time-consuming administrative tasks. Contact Melissa by email or at (450) 602-2488. For more information, check out Melissa's profile on the Culture Consultants website.

Commercial Loft Space for Rent or Sublet

Commercial loft available: 772 sq ft, wood floors, big windows, and sink with hot and cold water. Located downtown on Ste-Catherine, cross street St-Alexandre (near Place-des-Arts metro). Available as of July 1, lease expires October 31, with option for renewal. $750 per month plus tax (includes heating). Please contact Bettina by email or at (514) 878 3663.

Visual Voice Art Gallery Available for Exhibitions

The Visual Voice Art Gallery is an artist-run gallery that showcases contemporary painting, print, photography, installation and sculpture. The Visual Voice is located in the Belgo building in downtown Montreal, a building that is home to over 30 art galleries and artists' studios.

Visual Voice is available for rent in ten-day blocks. To apply for this rental opportunity, send samples of your work, a short CV, and website address (if available) along with the application form available on Visual Voices' website. Once approved, the gallery will then set up a webpage for you and meet with you to arrange the details of your show. For more information or and to download an application form, visit the gallery's website.

Apartment with Piano for Rent

Bright, fully-furnished studio for rent in downtown Montreal with south-facing view. Available on 1 September 2007. Seventh floor, air-conditioned, ceramic floors, secure building, very clean, soundproof, walk to Ste-Catherine street, Concordia, McGill, museums, shopping, Guy metro, buses, etc. $1000 per month. Call Cheryl at (514) 678-6195.

Informal Chamber Music Group Wanted

Intermediate-level classical pianist seeks to join an informal Chamber Music group (or another pianist for duets) for enjoyment and not necessarily for performance. Central Montreal location. I trained at Trinity College of Music in London many years ago. If interested, call Cheryl at (514) 678-6195.

Mile-End Academy Offering Music Lessons

Mile-End Academy is a new music school founded by Tom Mennier. Mennier offers a fresh and intuitive approach based on his years of experience as a session/touring musician in a wide range of musical fields. Courses offered include piano (individualized approach), theory/arrangement/composition (all levels, jazz/pop/classical), vocal coaching and workshops, and basic recording techniques. For more information or to enroll, call (514) 277-3405, or E-mail Tom Mennier.

Special Offer from the Quebec Writers' Federation

For a limited time only, any QWF member who purchases Barbara Florio Graham's "Five Fast Steps to Low-Cost Publicity" can purchase the Canadian Libraries List (90+ libraries with purchasing power) for just $10 (regularly $25). Descriptions and contact information are available at www.SimonTeakettle.com.

Art Appraiser Needed

Are you an art appraiser? A colleague of mine has an old painting that needs to be appraised. Please contact Darlene St. Georges by E-mail.

Artists Wanted for Art-Selling Brainstorming Session

As all visual artists know, selling art is difficult. How do artists go about selling their own work? Galleries, websites, ads, and local media coverage may not be enough. An eager painter and ELAN member would like to organize a brainstorming session about art sales with like-minded artists. All interested artists should E-mail Peter Smith. Venue and date of brainstorming session will be organized in part by ELAN administration.

Childrens' Book Author Needs Illustrator

ELAN member needs to find an illustrator for her children's book. The book is about the history behind Ottawa's tulip festival, and has been shortlisted by a children's book writing competition in England. The author is unable to pay an illustrator unless the book is accepted for publication. For more information contact Nadja Zajdman by E-mail.

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