Preparations for St. Albert’s inaugural Amplify Youth Festival are in full swing.
The city’s cultural services department, in partnership with the youth festival advisory committee, a council of volunteers from 14 to 23 years, have set the dates for Oct. 17 to 18.
The main body of the two-day youth festival will be hosted at the Enjoy Centre’s main floor Moonflower Room with additional access to the building’s lower level.
“It was appealing because of the multiple spaces available,” said cultural services director Kelly Jerrott. “The youth committee looked at a wide variety of options. They wanted something new and exciting.”
The festival will host various programs, workshops, exhibits and showcase concerts. Rapid Fire Theatre and FAVA (Film and Video Arts) have already been tapped for an event. Complete details of activities will be available at the official launch in May.
The city has approved $80,000 in startup funding for the project in a bid to involve more youth in the arts.
“Studies have shown that students participating in arts programs do much better in schools. They develop confidence, civic values, problem solving skills and are more rounded individuals,” noted Jerrott.
There are 18 individuals involved in the youth advisory committee. However organizers are still looking for volunteers in various capacities such as setup, artist assistance and security.
The festival organizing committee is also searching for sponsorship.
“Certainly if there are people who can help through sponsorship, we would be pleased to hear from them.”
Want to help?
Anyone wishing to volunteer or provide sponsorship can contact Kathleen Bell at 780-459-1600 or email [email protected].
