SASKATCHEWAN GOVERNMENT CONTRIBUTES $150,000 TO COMEDY AWARDS

Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Christine Tell announced a $150,000 contribution from the Government of Saskatchewan today toward the ninth annual Canadian Comedy Awards & Festival being held in Regina October 2 - 5 this year.

The Canadian Comedy Awards recognizes excellence in Canadian film, television and live comedy. The awards ceremony includes a four-day comedy festival that brings film, stand-up and skits to local performance venues.

The Canadian Comedy Awards & Festival was held in Toronto from 2000-2002. In 2003, the event moved to London, Ontario where it has been held since, until now. London estimates the festival returns over $2.5 to $3 million to its economy.

"It is great that Saskatchewan is attracting national events like the Canadian Comedy Awards & Festival," Tell said. "This event is another first for the province and will boost local businesses and tourism industries. The Comedy Awards will also allow Saskatchewan talent to network and gain exposure."

"The City of Regina is pleased to provide $50,000 dollars in financial support for this exciting event," Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco said. "Our citizens not only get behind events like this, but they embrace them. That's the secret to our success and why we are now a destination of choice."

"This exciting event is a great opportunity to show our warm hospitality and promote Regina to visitors and the rest of Canada," Regina Hotel Association CEO JP Ellson said. "This festival will have a significant economic impact on the hotel and service industries."

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For more information, contact:

Janice Wilby
Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5781