Providing sound and lighting at Conseil des arts de Chéticamp
December 16, 2020
-by Rosie Aucoin-Grace
One primary organization in our Acadian region that has certainly contributed to the arts and culture of our region to the fullest is Le Conseil des arts de Chéticamp through their ability to deliver a wide range of theatrical and musical productions. They are based out of École NDA and feature a state-of-the-art theatre where many of our youth have graced the stage, as well as performers from all over the globe. During these pandemic times, in a time of social distancing and restrictions, offering programs to our youth poses quite a challenge.
Fortunately, some key people have been planning on the next course of action. Le Conseil has recently been working on the creation of a Cultural Leadership Team working profoundly on the development of our youth in Chéticamp and area. Speaking with Executive Director Joeleen Larade, she explained, “Le Conseil is reputed for its importance in youth development and growth in various fields of art. However, in recent years our human resources/mentors have rapidly diminished and currently in pandemic times, it has not been easy to ensure quality training, education, and advancement for our youth when it comes to cultural arts.”
“I am happy to announce that the creation of this cultural team, an initiative funded by Canadian Heritage and La Fédération Culturelle Acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse (FéCANE) will help us greatly to ensure continuous training of our younger generation in their artistic journey,” says Larade. She continued, “This project proposes to bring together experts in the field of the arts and train a new generation that will be part of Le Conseil for years to come and in turn train the youth coming on board in the future. The training offered will be: Film, stage technical training, theatre, lighting and stage settings/decor.”
Since its formation in 1999, Le Conseil has made an immense impact on the students of École NDA and the Acadian region as a whole. Over the years, these students and other residents of Chéticamp and area have participated in various roles in over 70 productions, international tours, some tours closer to home and so much more. As of last year, Le Conseil had contributed over 1.6 million dollars into local economy during the previous five years; has been recognized as the most successful regional arts council in Nova Scotia and one of the only arts council in Canada with a joint association with Department of Education – le CSAP; has worked in the creation of shows and innovative concepts such as Water Puppets, Le Grand Cercle, black light shows, and countless other productions.
This unique arts council plays such an important role in the development of arts and culture, especially with the younger generation. Also, as a result it makes significant contribution as a catalyst in growing and developing our tourism industry over the past few decades. Through support in various fundraisers and activities, Le Conseil can continue their mission for the betterment of our community.
It is amazing to see how when our youth are present on stage during many numerous productions, they come out of their shell, they shine, and are a reflection of their souls…their dreams.
Larade believes strongly in the initiatives for the youth in the community, “These educational programs are profoundly essential to strengthen the feelings of our newer generation in belonging to our language and Acadian culture, not just for the youth in Chéticamp but also for surrounding communities.”
For those who would like more information or to get involved in this new venture you may contact, Executive Director Joeleen Larade by phone at 902-224-1876 or via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots.” - Marcus Garvey
