Entries by Angelica San Juan

World-Class Performances Close to Home: Steinbach Arts Council’s 2026-2027 Concert Season

July 15, 2026 in /by

STEINBACH, MB – The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is proud to announce its 2026-2027 Concert Season, featuring an exciting lineup of performances that bring world-class entertainment close to home. Audiences can look forward to local theatre, comedy, professional musical theatre, symphonic holiday favourites, classical strings and piano duets, award-winning jazz-pop, and two family-friendly shows that will engage and inspire children and their families. With something for every age and interest, the season promises unforgettable live experiences right here in southeastern Manitoba. Concert Series Dry Cold Productions Musical Theatre Concert Thursday, October 22, 2026 Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra Holiday Tour Tuesday, December 8, 2026 Sponsored by Three Way Builders Laila Biali: Joni Mitchell and the Canadian Songbook Reimagined Pop-Jazz Saturday, January 23, 2027 Sponsored by Herbsigwil Farms Junction Quartet: Classical Connections Classical String Quartet Tuesday, February 9, 2027 Darryl Friesen & Chris Kayler: Fables and Fantasy Classical Piano Duets Sunday, March 7, 2027 Added Attractions The Crucible Community Drama October 2-3 & 9-10, 2026 Sponsored by Steinbach Credit Union Mennonite Heritage Village Community Partner Homegrown featuring Matt Falk Comedy, Food, and Drink Friday, November 13, 2026 Concerts for Kids Chimera Dance Theatre: Silly Billy Family Theatre Thursday, January 21, 2027 Sponsored by Steinbach Hatchery, Mark & Bonnie Loewen Manitoba Theatre for Young People: Growing Carrots Family Theatre Friday, March 19, 2027 “We’re proud to present world-class artists, such as Grammy-nominated and JUNO Award-winning Laila Biali, alongside local success stories, including community theatre productions and performers who began their journeys right here in southeastern Manitoba,” said Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator at the Steinbach Arts Council. “By making high-quality arts experiences accessible close to home, we’re inspiring audiences of all ages and helping nurture the next generation of artists and performers in our region.” Tickets for the 2026-2027 concert season go on sale to the public on July 20, 2026. Audiences can save with a season ticket package, which includes admission to all five Concert Series performances at a discounted rate. With limited seating, patrons are encouraged to secure their seats early. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit SteinbachArts.ca or call 204-346-1077. ###Contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinatormarketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077

“Sisters” by Cynthia Hiebert

March 30, 2026 in /by

Submitted by Cynthia Hiebert

Sisters, Art Quilt Series by Cynthia Hiebert

April 10 to May 15, 2026
Opening Ceremony: April 10 at 6PM

Cynthia Hiebert is a contemporary art quilt maker, born and raised in southern Manitoba, and residing in Winnipeg. She has been coloring outside the lines since childhood. Having studied Advertising Art, with a major in Illustration, her work focuses on purpose and letting the space speak. 

Cynthia concentrates on capturing a moment of human emotion in her compositions, through the “painting” process of fusing small pieces of fabric, often little works of art in their own right. While initial planning is crucial, the creative brain is soon let loose to improvise at will, creating serendipitous surprises along the way!  

Cynthia has shown works in various quilt shows in Manitoba, winning ribbons in several quilt challenges. 

Artist Statement: 

While considering themes for an Art Quilt Series, I realized that I already had something remarkable to work with – sisters. The pieces in this show explore my relationship to the women in my family. They all have strong personalities, but are also all very different. 

I work with standard quilting cottons, occasionally hand dyeing for effects. Fabric pieces are cut and adhered to a backer, a thread map/color chart is created, then machine quilted with multiple thread colors.  

I take inspiration from artists like Matisse and Egon Schiele for their use of vibrant color and expressive body placement. And, of course Bisa Butler, a fabulous pictorial fiber artist from the US, for her fabric story telling. 

Though I know the intent of each piece in the series, they are meant to be seen as a moment in time, with the viewer, including the subject, discovering their own interpretation. The creative brain is set loose and strange things can happen. 

Artwork

Plan Your Visit

See more at the Hall Gallery, located in the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre at 304 Second St. You’re welcome to enjoy the artwork during our office hours. A toonie admission is appreciated and can be left in the donation box in the hall.



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Steinbach Arts Council Celebrates Regional Talent with New Art Quilt Series 

March 30, 2026 in /by

Steinbach, MB– The Steinbach Arts Council will present a new exhibition featuring Sisters by Manitoba artist Cynthia Hiebert in the Hall Gallery. The exhibit will run from April 10 through May 15, 2026, with an Opening Ceremony being held on Friday, April 10 at 6PM at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre.  Hiebert is a contemporary art quilt maker who grew up in southern Manitoba and now resides in Winnipeg, bringing a regional connection that aligns with the SAC’s ongoing commitment to supporting artists from the province. Her background in Advertising Art, with a major in Illustration, informs the way she works with form and space. Hiebert’s work is grounded in both technique and personal exploration.  The exhibit introduces a series of quilted portraits and forms created through her process of assembling small pieces of fabric that function as individual elements within a larger composition. Hiebert describes her method as one that begins with planning before shifting into a more intuitive stage as the work progresses, allowing unexpected results to surface. She has participated in various quilt shows within Manitoba and has received recognition in several quilt challenges, making her work a fitting addition to SAC’s annual Hall Gallery Exhibit season.   In this series, Hiebert turns toward the women in her own family. She notes that when considering themes for an art quilt series, she realized she “already had something remarkable to work with – [her] sisters,” and the resulting work explores their relationships and strong personalities. Hiebert uses standard quilting cottons and sometimes hand-dyes fabric to create effects. Her process involves cutting and adhering fabric pieces to a backer before establishing a thread map or color chart and machine quilting with multiple thread colors. She names artists such as Matisse, Egon Schiele, and Bisa Butler as her inspiration whose work in color, gesture, and storytelling has informed her own. Although she begins each piece with a clear understanding of its intent, she emphasizes that they are “meant to be seen as a moment in time, with the viewer, including the subject, discovering their own interpretation.”   The public is encouraged to visit the Hall Gallery throughout the exhibition period. As a long‑standing showcase of local and regional talent, the Steinbach Arts Council relies on community support to continue presenting meaningful arts experiences. Toonie admission is encouraged to support the Steinbach Arts Council and its artists.  ##  For interviews, please contact:  Angelica San Juan, Communications & Outreach Coordinator marketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.10477 

Steinbach Arts Council Seeks Performers for KR Barkman Concerts in the Park 

March 25, 2026 in /by

Steinbach, MB – March 25, 2026 – The Steinbach Arts Council is inviting performers of all kinds to take the stage this spring as part of the 2026 KR Barkman Concerts in the Park series. This free outdoor concert series will return to the KR Barkman Park gazebo on Main Street throughout May and June, offering audiences a chance to experience a wide variety of live performances in a welcoming, community-focused setting.  Artists of all disciplines are encouraged to apply, including family and cultural groups, youth ensembles, choirs, bands, soloists, vocalists, instrumentalists, and dancers. Whether you’re an emerging artist or an established performer, the series offers a valuable opportunity to connect with audiences and share your work in a beautiful outdoor environment.  “Providing opportunities like this for artists to perform and connect with audiences is an important part of what we do,” says Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator at the Steinbach Arts Council. “Each year, this concert series highlights the depth and diversity of talent in our community. We love welcoming back familiar faces while also creating space for new artists and fresh creative voices.”  Applications are now open at SteinbachArts.ca. Performers are asked to submit a short bio, audio or video samples, and a promotional photo. The Steinbach Arts Council provides venue coordination, promotional support, and access to basic sound equipment as needed.  Concerts will be scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from May 20 to June 17. Applicants can indicate their preferred dates, with scheduling offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The application deadline is April 27, 2026, and the full concert lineup will be announced in early May.  The Steinbach Arts Council is proud to partner with the Barkman Concrete Foundation to continue this annual tradition, bringing local and guest artists together and creating opportunities for the community to gather and enjoy live music and performance throughout the spring.  ###  For interviews, contact: Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinator marketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077 

2026 Summer Arts Day Camps Open For Families in the Southeast 

March 10, 2026 in /by

Feature Photo: SADC 2025 STEINBACH, MB – The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is thrilled to announce the return of its highly anticipated Summer Arts Day Camps, beginning June 29, 2026. Following a record-breaking 2025 season that welcomed 400 campers into the Centre, this year’s camps feature eight themed weeks designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning for children in age groups 3-4, 5-8, and 9-12 across the Southeast region.  Registration officially opens March 25, 2026 at 9AM. With camps consistently filling, families are encouraged to register early to ensure a spot for their children in their preferred camp week:   These camps are intentionally designed to nurture well-being and personal growth, offering a safe and professional environment where experienced instructors lead campers through music, dance, theatre, visual arts and culinary arts.   “Many of the campers who register for our camps return every year. It is so meaningful to us that these kids can express themselves, build connections, and find a place to belong at our camps. We heard feedback from parents last year that our camps were a safe, welcoming place, where they could confidently send their kids for care. We value being able to be that place for the community,” says Kristi Peters, Community Programs Assistant.  Camps run daily from 8:45 am to 4:00 pm at the Steinbach Arts Council. Fees are set at $165 for five-day weeks, and $140 for four-day holiday weeks (plus SAC membership). To register for camps, visit SteinbachArts.ca or call 204.346.1077. The Steinbach Arts Council would like to thank Canadian Tire Steinbach for sponsoring its Summer Arts Day Camp program.  The Steinbach Arts Council is dedicated to removing barriers for families and opening doors for children through the Steinbach Dodge Creative Kids Bursary Fund, the Roxanne Klassen Memorial Fund, and the Vera Friesen Memorial Fund, which provide support for Summer Arts Day Campers. Apply for a bursary online or in person at the SAC Administrative Office.  ###  To arrange an interview, please contact: Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinator marketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077 

Backyard Theatre Company to Present Final Performance of the Season  

March 10, 2026 in /by

Feature photo: BTC Final Production 2025 Steinbach, MB – The Steinbach Arts Council’s Backyard Theatre Company (BTC) is thrilled to present its final production of the season, Uncoordinated Battles. This high-energy action comedy combines big laughs, interesting characters, and an important message about teamwork. Written and directed by Jeremy Plett, with production direction by Akecia Peters, the production will take the stage on April 14, 2026, at 7 p.m. at the SRSS Theatre. Performers from BTC’s Intermediate and Advanced theatre programs will showcase their theatre skills on stage, with special performances by BTC Musical Theatre and Dramatic Discovery students.   About the play:  When three rival villains launch simultaneous attacks on the city, the world’s most confident spy team is forced to split up — and everything goes wrong. Outmatched and out of sync, the elite agents must team up with the overlooked newbies they’ve been ignoring if they hope to save the day.   Theatre provides a welcoming environment where youth find inclusion and connection. The big lesson about teamwork in the play’s plot mirrors the real-world social skills students gain by being part of a Backyard Theatre Company cast. “Every one of our theatre students has worked incredibly hard to bring this final production to life,” says Kristi Peters, Community Programs Assistant at the Steinbach Arts Council. “This play will showcase what happens when young people are encouraged, supported, and invited to grow through the arts. We believe that access to early performance experiences plays an important role for their artistic development.”  The BTC Musical Theatre students’ performance will feature “It’s the Hard-Knock Life” from Annie and “Ice Cream” from Anne of Green Gables. In addition, the Dramatic Discovery Kids will share a series of short spy-themed skits directed by Akecia Peters, showcasing the growth in skill of these young artists.  The Steinbach Arts Council invites families, friends, and community members to join in this inspiring celebration of local youth talent from the Southeast. Tickets are $10 for youth and adults. Immediate family members of the Backyard Theatre Company students must purchase their tickets by calling or visiting the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre between March 10 and 17.  Remaining tickets will be available for the public on March 17.   The Steinbach Arts Council thanks Nature’s Farm for sponsoring the Backyard Theatre Company program.  ###  For interviews, contact:  Angelica San Juan, Communications & Outreach Coordinator marketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077 

Steinbach Arts Council’s Fundraising Gala To Support Expanding Arts and Wellness Initiatives

March 4, 2026 in /by

Steinbach, MB—The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is excited to announce its annual Fundraising Gala on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Bentwood Hall. This special event celebrates our community and supporters who make the work possible, while looking ahead to an exciting future for SAC and arts and culture in our region. “Our growth over the last few years has been significant, but our goal is not simply to grow larger — it is to grow stronger,” says David Klassen, Executive Director of the Steinbach Arts Council.  “We are focused on expanding access, increasing impact, and ensuring that our programs continue to support people across our community and our region. Our annual Gala Fundraiser is an opportunity to invest in sustainable growth that will strengthen arts and culture in the Southeast for generations to come.” With a fundraising goal of $80,000, this year’s Gala will directly support thousands of people across the region through subsidized programs, bursaries, and free youth programming. Funds raised will also strengthen SAC’s expanding therapeutic arts and wellness-focused initiatives, supporting the health and well-being of our community. The evening will provide opportunities for guests to donate in support of SAC’s ongoing work. “Every class, concert, bursary, and mentorship opportunity is made possible by people who believe that arts and culture strengthen the fabric of our region. When we invest together, we create space for our community to build confidence, for youth to discover potential, for adults to continue learning, and for seniors to remain connected. We’re extremely thankful to our list of sponsors and donors who are helping us make this work possible.” Guests will enjoy a celebration of arts and culture, including cuisine prepared by the SAC Culinary Program, local entertainment, a jewelry raffle from GNM Fine Jewellers, and an art auction. The event will also feature a Student Highlight that recognizes SAC students who have demonstrated a strong dedication to learning and growing their craft. “We are committed to supporting thousands of people each year, and many of those are kids and families who access our programs.  It’s important to celebrate student successes, and we’re excited to do that at our event again this year,” says Klassen.  Tickets are available for $150 per person, or a table of 8 can be reserved for $1200. Those unable to attend are encouraged to donate in support of SAC programs and future growth. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit steinbacharts.ca or call204-346-1077. SAC extends its gratitude to its Gala Sponsors: Loewen Henderson Banman Legault LLP, Dr Sheila Harms & Warren Trimble, Leonard & Marie Klassen, Steinbach’s Flooring Canada, Castle Mortgage Group, Dr Tara King Optometrist, One Insurance, onPoint, Chez Koop, SteinbachOnline, Old Church Bakery, Country Meat & Deli, Let’s Celebrate Rentals, Sunshine Greenhouse, Garnet & Trish Enns, Earls Meat Market, Derksen Printers, Manitoba Liquor Mart, GNM Fine Jewellers, and Niverville Credit Union. With the continued community support, SAC remains committed to creating a place that supports people and contributes to a strong and connected region. ### For interviews, contact: Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinatormarketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077

World-Class Pianist Valerie Dueck Returns Home for Immersive “From Night to Light” Concert 

February 26, 2026 in /by

STEINBACH, MB – The Steinbach Arts Council is proud to present a homecoming performance by internationally acclaimed pianist Valerie Dueck. On April 11, 2026, at 7:00 PM, Dueck will take the stage at Grace Mennonite Church to present From Night to Light, a multi-sensory solo piano concert that weaves together music, poetry, and striking visual imagery.  Raised in Kleefeld, Manitoba, Valerie Dueck developed her musical foundation in a community enriched by an internationally renowned soprano and two leading vocal conductors—an early influence that sparked a career spanning three continents. Now a distinguished pianist, art song specialist, and opera coach, Valerie has worked with some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, including the Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper), the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, and the Grand Théâtre de Genève. Her performances have been broadcast globally by the CBC and the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation. Bringing her world-class expertise back to the Southeast, Valerie’s return marks a significant full-circle moment for the community that first inspired her global journey.  From Night to Light is more than a traditional concert; it is an immersive journey. The program highlights the works of Canadian and women composers, curated to guide the audience through a thematic transition from the shadows of “Night, Moon, and Constellations” into the radiance of “Light and Daydreams of Utopia.” By integrating poetry and visual art, Dueck creates a space for reflection, wonder, and imagination that resonates with music lovers and artists of all disciplines.  “Valerie Dueck’s career on the international stage is a point of immense pride for our community,” says Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator. “She represents the very best of what happens when local talent is nurtured and then goes on to command the global stage. To welcome a performer of her stature back to Steinbach is a privilege.”  The Steinbach Arts Council aims to prove high-quality, professional performing arts while maintaining accessible pricing. With valued venue partnerships helping us meet growing demand, Grace Mennonite Church will offer an intimate and acoustically rich setting for this unforgettable evening of storytelling.  The Steinbach Arts Council thanks Steinbach Credit Union for their generous sponsorship of this performance.   Tickets are $25 for regular admission and $12.50 for students, and are available now at SteinbachArts.ca, by calling 2043461077, or by visiting the Steinbach Arts Council office.  ### For interviews, please contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinatormarketing@steinbacharts.ca 204.346.1077

Steinbach Arts Council Brings Free Professional Theatre to Local Families

February 25, 2026 in /by

STEINBACH, MB — The Steinbach Arts Council invites the community to experience the magic of professional theatre with Tad and Birdy, a Manitoba Theatre for Young People (MTYP) production, coming to the Pat Porter Active Living Centre on April 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM. This family show is free to attend, with advance registration required.  Tad and Birdy is a heartwarming adventure about friendship and discovering the world beyond your window. The play follows Tad, a curious tree frog tadpole with a voice like a bird, and Birdy, a lovebird who knows everything—except how to be happy. When these two unlikely friends meet in a messy bedroom, their differences couldn’t be greater. Tad dreams of exploring the big blue world beyond, while Birdy prefers the safety of staying exactly where he is. As their friendship grows, both begin to see the world—and themselves—in a whole new way.  The heart of the play was inspired by a poignant interaction playwright Anika Dowsett had while teaching at MTYP. Dowsett recalls a young student asking: “Do you think you can still try if your heart’s broke?” “That grammatically incorrect, earnest, lovely, between-sobs question was so big from a six-year-old and really touched a nerve for me,” says Dowsett (Winnipeg Free Press, Jan 2026). This brave and vulnerable question became the catalyst for a story that explores how we support one another, even when things are hard.   Recommended for ages 5 to 12 (Kindergarten to Grade 6), the production is designed to resonate with kids and adults alike. Drawing whimsical inspiration from BNL’s pop song Pollywog in a Bog, Dowsett transforms a messy bedroom into a place where magic happens through puppetry, movement, and play. Families will be entertained from start to finish by this tale of courage and friendship.  “Live theatre gives kids a chance to see things from a different perspective and connect with others,” says Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator at the Steinbach Arts Council. “We’re thrilled to bring MTYP to Steinbach and make a professional theatre experience accessible for local families—and thanks to SCU’s support, we’re able to offer it free of charge.”  This free performance is made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Steinbach Credit Union. Free tickets are available in advance only (not at the door). To get yours, visit SteinbachArts.ca or call 204.346.1077.  ###  For interviews, contact:  Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinator marketing@steinbacharts.ca 204.346.1077 

2026 Southeast Manitoba Festival Celebrates Historic Growth and Community-Wide Collaboration

February 11, 2026 in /by

STEINBACH, MB – The Southeast Manitoba Festival (SEMF) returns this February and March, marking a significant milestone in its decades-long legacy. Following a 2025 merger with the Steinbach Arts Council (SAC), the festival continues to thrive presenting opportunities to young performers through professional adjudication and performance. This year’s festival highlights a high interest in the arts across the region, gaining over 700 entries across multiple disciplines. To accommodate this record-breaking growth, SAC has coordinated a network of satellite locations throughout the community to host multiple disciplines. “Providing early performance experiences is essential for artistic development,” says Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs at SAC. “By bringing students together to perform and receive feedback, we are helping build the next generation of leadership within our arts community. We’re grateful to our community partners and local venues for opening their doors to host these disciplines where our participants can have a place to share their talent and passion.” While SAC and SEMF celebrate these partnerships, the continued growth of these programs such as the SEMF Festival highlights the regional need for a dedicated, permanent performing arts space— an identified goal supporting the Southeast’s creative future. 2026 SEMF Schedule & Locations: Call for Volunteers: To support our growing festival, SEMF relies on community support. Members interested in supporting the festival are encouraged to sign up as volunteers to help facilitate this massive regional event. Email semf@steinbacharts.ca The 2026 festival is made possible by the generous support of local partners, including Steinbach Dental Clinic, Nature’s Farm,Dr. Sheila Harms & Warren Trimble, Days Inn, and RK Electric. For full schedule details, please visit https://semf.ca/. We encourage the public to come experience the festival. Admission is $5 for Dance and $3 for all other disciplines. ## For interviews, please contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinatormarketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077