SURREY – The Arts Council of Surrey wants to celebrate its golden anniversary by hosting a new community arts festival in the city.
The organization's 50th anniversary will be marked in 2017, the same year Canada celebrates its 150th birthday.
"We believe this anniversary calls for a celebration of local talent, the likes of which this community has never seen," writes Carol Girardi, president of the arts council, in the January edition of the organization's monthly "Spotlight" magazine.
"Our vision is a weekend event that will showcase the talents of local artists and artisans," Girardi wrote. "We see musicians, bands, dancers, singers, actors, art en plain air and gallery exhibits, authors books and poetry readings, submissions by our wonderful artisans."
Plans for the festival will be discussed during the arts council's general meeting, set for 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 10 at Newton Cultural Centre. RSVP by calling 604-594-2700. The facility is located at 13530 72nd Ave., Surrey.
The group is extending an invitation to arts councils throughout the Lower Mainland to "work with us to create a Community Arts Festival in Surrey. We invite you, our members, to join us in this venture. Can you suggest a venue or venues? Would you like to be on the planning committee? Would you be willing to volunteer during the event? Are you a media person, or knowledgable in social media? Do you belong to a fabulous choir or group? Are you a superstar ready to happen?"
tom.zillich@thenownewspaper.com