News Release

FREDERICTON (CNB) - Young artists from New Brunswick are being invited to participate in the international cultural component of the sixth Games of La Francophonie, which will take place in Beirut, Lebanon, from Sept. 27 to Oct. 6, 2009. Minister of Wellness, Culture and Sport Hédard Albert made the announcement today.

"I invite all young New Brunswick artists to take part in the cultural component of the Games," said Albert. "This promises to be a cultural adventure leading to many new discoveries they will never forget."

The Games of La Francophonie is an international event held every four years, bringing together from member countries and states of the Francophonie thousands of young people who excel in athletic and cultural activities. It is a time of public celebration, exchange between young people, and a reflection of the talents of tomorrow in a variety of disciplines. The last Games event was held in Niger in 2005.

Artists under the age of 35 may take part in the cultural component of the Games in one of seven disciplines: song, storytelling, traditionally inspired original dance, literature (short story), painting, photography and sculpture. Selected artists will be part of Team Canada-New Brunswick.

"It is an honour for New Brunswick to take part in the 2009 Games of La Francophonie," Albert said. "This international sporting and cultural event has special significance for our province because it provides a unique showcase for our culture, heritage and talents."

The Canadian cultural delegation to the Games of La Francophonie is made up of three teams: Canada, Canada-Quebec and Canada-New Brunswick.

The selection criteria are based on the quality of performance, not on language spoken. The deadline to register is Nov. 7, 2008.

For more information, visit the Games of La Francophonie website.