ELAN News July 2023
Letter from Executive Director
Here we are at the beginning of July (well, almost),
and somehow we’re already past the half-way point of 2023. And while a lot of folks are taking some well-earned time off, ELAN still has lots on the go to benefit our members and our community.
First, our members should be sure to save the date for our upcoming 2023 AGM. Join us on the evening of Monday, August 14th, either in-person or via Zoom, as we review all of our activities from the past year and look forward to what’s to come. Stay tuned to ELANews for more details, including the announcement of our venue for the evening.
Second, for anyone working on a project this summer who needs access to affordable digital tools and studio space, our Community Digital Arts Hub has got you covered. Whether you’d like to rent an equipment kit to work on your own or book some time in one of the studio rooms, the CDAH team will be happy to discuss your needs and help you find the right solution for you.
Third, if you’re an ELAN member who’s been thinking about taking part in Just For Laughs Festival’s ComedyPRO, a four-day event beginning July 26th that explores the business of comedy, you’re in luck: ELAN members can use a special promo code to receive 20% off ComedyPRO Industry and Industry PLUS passes. And believe me, those savings are no joke. (More details on this discount below)
Otherwise, take advantage of the nice weather (when it cooperates, anyway) and get out there to enjoy some of the wonderful festivals and cultural events going on around you. As always, our newsletters and events calendar are a great way to stay on top of everything happening in the English-language arts community, so make sure you don’t wind up with a case of warm weather FOMO.
Happy summer!
Nick Maturo,
Interim Executive Director of ELAN
ELAN Annual General Meeting
Mark your calendars and save the date for the ELAN Annual General Meeting (AGM) which will take place August 14 from 5:30-7:30 in Montreal. The venue will be announced in the next few weeks, but it will be taking place in Montreal. We look forward to getting to see you and to share our tales from the past year.
Celebrating Chuck Childs on the occasion of his retirement
Last night, I had the honor of attending the retirement party for Chuck Childs, General Manager for the Centaur. I was trepidatious. Chuck has been one of the backbones of the English-language arts community for over 45 years. The idea of losing someone with such vast institutional knowledge – not to mention one of the most generous spirits you will ever meet – scared me. Walking into the room last night my fears were relieved.
When I was young, my grandfather taught me that one of the responsibilities of privilege was the edict, “each one teach one.” Last night, it was clear that Chuck lived this edict to the fullest throughout his career. The room full of people who came out to celebrate was a testament to the fact that while we will indeed miss him, he has seeded the community with so much of his knowledge and himself through teaching, that we are well-equipped to stand strong.
While there is no one that can fill the large hole that will be left in our community, there is no doubt that by coming together and applying all that Chuck has taught us, not only will we remain strong, but we will also honour the legacy of his work. Having spent so much time doing what must be done, Chuck has more than earned the right to spend his time doing what he wants to do and we at ELAN wish him the very best as he embarks on the next chapter of his life.
Deborah Forde
ELAN’s Director of Operations
Are you a Comedy Pro? ELAN x JFL ComedyPRO 2023
We are excited to announce a new discount for ELAN members! ELAN members ca now get 20% off ComedyPRO Industry and Industry PLUS passes. “ComedyPRO is the most important annual global gathering of the biggest players in the comedy world. The four-day event explores all facets of the business of comedy during the peak industry/ media/ performer dates of the Montreal Just For Laughs Festival.
It is an entertainment landmark recognized for talent discovery, must-see keynotes and conversations, and quality comedy content that you won’t want to miss.”
To access the discount, please reach out to membership@quebec-elan.org for the Promo code which you can use directly on their website.
