HRM Release:
Halifax, the host of the first summer event in 1969, will again make its mark on Canada Games in less than one month. The opening ceremony, a must-see national broadcast event, will display the rich culture, talent and diversity of Nova Scotia.
The host society announced today, Jan. 12, a star-studded line up of musical talent including Winnipeg native Chantal Kreviazuk, The Trews, Grand Dérangement, Jimmy Rankin, JRDN, Rich Aucoin, The Stanfields, and Tanya Davis. The opening ceremony, which takes place Friday, Feb. 11, at 7 p.m. at the Halifax Metro Centre, will prominently showcase Nova Scotian artists.
Tickets for this uniquely Nova Scotian event are available online, by phone or at the Ticket Atlantic box office. For more information, visit canadagames2011.ca/tickets .
Patrick Roberge Productions, which has produced shows for the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, previous Canada Games, the 2010 Grey Cup Halftime Show and many other events on the international stage, has partnered with Halifax-based Pilot Light Productions to assemble the ceremonies' diverse musical acts.
Dance auditions held last week at the Canada Games Centre selected about 50 local dancers to play a role in the two-hour spectacle. The Stadacona Band and members of Atlantic Cirque will also perform.
"The Canada Games is an opportunity for Nova Scotia to showcase all the great experiences the province has to offer, including its rich culture and heritage," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "I can't think of a better way to kick off what promises to be a fantastic two weeks in Halifax than with this talented lineup of Nova Scotia artists. What a proud and exciting time to be a Nova Scotian."
"The talent and scope of the performers that will be on stage during the opening ceremony is both impressive and exciting," said Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport). "Like our athletes, Canadian artists are a source of pride and the lineup of musical talent announced will add excitement to the Games. The government of Canada is proud to support the 2011 Canada Games and we look forward to the start of an exciting sporting event."
"Just as the opening ceremony will see an outstanding array of home-grown talent centre stage, hosting the Canada Games will put Halifax in the national spotlight," said HRM Mayor Peter Kelly. "Everyone here is looking forward to experiencing what is sure to be an unforgettable event."
A parade of athletes from every province and territory and several surprises, including the unveiling of a new Canada Games theme song, will also highlight the ceremony.
The audience will also star in the show. Doors open at 6 p.m. and all ticket holders should be in their seats early so they can fully experience the spectacle of the opening ceremony.
The event kicks off the Games, welcoming and celebrating young athletes who will compete in 20 sports over the following two weeks.
Other key cultural components of the Games include the National Artist Program and the free entertainment scheduled for Celebration Square in Grand Parade.
The 2011 Canada Winter Games will be the largest multi-sport event held in Nova Scotia and Halifax's first Canada Winter Games.
Held every two years, alternating between summer and winter, the Canada Games are a key event in the development of Canada's young athletes, producing the next generation of national, international and Olympic champions.