NDP MLAs Dean and Lore say people will enjoy more live music events in Greater Victoria

GREATER VICTORIA – New Democrat MLAs Mitzi Dean and Grace Lore say that people will be able to enjoy more live music events and performances this year thanks to the BC New Democrat government’s continued support of artists and the live music sector throughout B.C.

“This funding to help bring JazzFest to Bullen Park is great news for people in Esquimalt and our entire region. Our community has so much to offer and now will be able to celebrate and enjoy the festival right here,” said Mitzi Dean, MLA for Esquimalt-Metchosin. “And I am happy to see we are also investing in the Function Festival, put on by the BC Black History Awareness Society, that will bring people together this August to listen to fantastic BIPOC artists.”

Music and live production companies in Greater Victoria receiving funding include:

  • Victoria Jazz Society for the expansion of the Victoria International JazzFest Expansion to Bullen Park ($37,500.00)
  • Phillips Brewing Company for the Phillips Backyard Weekender ($35,000.00)
  • Top Shelf Productions Inc. for All Ways Home Festival ($45,000.00)
  • Arts on View Society ($50,000.00)
  • British Columbia Black History Awareness Society for the Function Festival ($30,000.00)

“We are investing in our artists, musicians, and festivals, like Phillips Backyard Weekender, so we can all enjoy the incredible live music events that people in Victoria look forward to,” said Grace Lore, MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill. “I am thrilled we are also providing funding for Arts on View Society, and their work to preserve Herman’s Jazz Club and build appreciation for live music in Victoria.”

The funding for Greater Victoria comes from an additional $2.5 million investment from the BC New Democrat government to Amplify BC to support music companies and live operations. Amplify BC is British Columbia’s music fund delivered through Creative BC, the Province’s lead agency for creative-sector funding and development.

This $2.5-million supplement to the $22.5 million already being delivered over three years demonstrates our government’s recognition of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on live music performances and the music industry, and the sacrifices that were made to keep us safe.

From May 16 to May 20, 2022, British Columbia is celebrating Creative Industries Week, which is an industry-led awareness week with organized events showcasing B.C.’s creators through online events and social media campaigns.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022TACS0031-000746