Soothfest 2005

The following press release was provided by the Arts Council of Sault Ste. Marie and District:

Soothfest 2005

From April 11th to 14th, Sault and area residents will be amazed by the acting and production skills of local youth at Soothfest 2005 being held at Korah Collegiate. With seven plays over four evenings, this is the biggest Soothfest to date, and includes four locally written plays.

With sponsorship from USWA 2724, and Canadian Idol Eh, this year’s festival will provide 15 awards, including two $150 scholarships toward theatrical training. There are awards for acting, directing, set design, lighting and sound, best script, and best promotional package. There will also be musical entertainment by “No Cause” as a prelude to the award ceremony, and two professional development workshops for the participants hosted by Richard Howard, who is also this year’s adjudicator, as well as Steve Ballantine.

For 14 years Soothfest, which is a professional level theatre competition, has been entertaining audiences, providing a venue for young talent, and encouraging participation in theatre arts throughout the Algoma District. Specifically recognizing that talent does not necessarily require school enrolment, or performance on stage, Soothfest is inclusive of all parts of the community, and all aspects of theatrical production. Over the years, there have been entries from Algoma University, Sault Youth Theatre, Stage 1, The Indian Friendship Centre, and other groups outside of the traditional school environment.

Tickets for the festival are $4 students/seniors, $6 adults per evening, and until Monday April 11th only an Event pass, good for all performances, is available for $12. For more information or advanced tickets contact the Arts Council of Sault Ste. Marie and District at 945-9756 or 101-369 Queen St. E.

by William Slingsby