Entries by Angelica San Juan

Steinbach Arts Council Brings Manitoba Theatre for Young People to Steinbach

February 26, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council presents a Manitoba Theatre for Young People production Blue Beads and Blueberries on April 11th, 2025, at the SRSS Theatre. Recommended for ages 5-12, this show is ideal for families! Blue Beads and Blueberries transforms an ancient fairy tale into a celebration of Métis culture. When a father asks his daughters how much they love him, he feels slighted by the response of his youngest and sends her away. This sets her off on an adventure of self-discovery, one brimming with beaded earrings, woven sashes, and traditional jigs. Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator at the Steinbach Arts Council, shares why this presentation is special: “Manitoba Theatre for Young People is one of the most respected professional theatre companies in Canada, and we are thrilled to host them in our community. Storytelling is a powerful way to learn, and we know our audience will be both entertained and inspired!” Manitoba Theatre for Young People has been creating and presenting professional theatre productions for children and families since 1982. In addition to its mainstage season and touring activities, MTYP plays a key role in the development and delivery of theatre-in-education programs that concentrate on using theatre as an educational tool to illustrate and express ideas about social issues. The Steinbach Arts Council is proud to present this MTYP production and bring engaging theatrical entertainment to families in our community. This show is made possible with support from Steinbach Hatchery, Mark & Bonnie Loewen, and the Million Dollar Round Table Foundation. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for under 18. Blue Beads and Blueberries Written by Erin Macklem Directed by Katie German Produced by Manitoba Theatre for Young People.

Steinbach Arts Council to Conclude 45th Anniversary Concert Series with Ninth Sold-Out Performance

February 20, 2025 in /by

The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre (RMTC), Manitoba’s largest theatre touring company, is set to conclude the Steinbach Arts Council’s 45th Anniversary Concert Series with a sold-out performance of Murder for Two. Taking place at the SRSS Theatre at 7:30pm on March 4, 2025, this musical whodunit is the ninth sold-out performance of the 2024-2025 concert season and promises to be a memorable night for the community. Murder for Two, penned by Joe Kinosian and Kellen Blair, features two actors skillfully portraying a dozen characters, all while accompanied by a piano. This production is a lively tribute to classic murder mysteries, blending humor and music to engage audiences of all ages. Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator at the Steinbach Arts Council, shares her excitement: “The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre’s rural tour is always a highly anticipated SAC event, and Murder for Two is no exception. We are thrilled to bring this calibre of entertainment to Steinbach. With nine sold-out concert series performances this season, we remain committed to meeting the growing demand for high-quality entertainment in our community.” The Steinbach Arts Council plays a vital role in fostering community spirit through arts and culture. By hosting such events, they ensure that residents have access to diverse and engaging performances. The performance will showcase the talents of Duncan Cox as Marcus and Melanie Whyte as The Suspects, under the direction of Chase Winnicky. This sold-out show reflects the community’s enthusiasm for the arts and the ongoing commitment of RMTC to connect with audiences across Manitoba. The RMTC Regional Tour is proudly supported by PlayNow (Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries), IG Wealth Management, and the Manitoba Arts Council, ensuring that the arts remain accessible to all. ### To arrange an interview, please contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications & Outreach Coordinatormarketing@steinbacharts.ca | 2043461077 A selection of photos and video from RMTC will be available on February 19, 2025. To access these photos, visit the MEDIA CENTRE at royalmtc.ca/mediacentre. USERNAME: media PASSWORD: Medi@24!

“In Search of TreAsARRG” Sets Sail for Steinbach In This Backyard Theatre Company Spring Production

February 19, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is thrilled to announce the upcoming family-friendly production, “In Search of TreasARRG,” directed and originally written by Jeremy Plett, a long-time supporter of the arts and theatre instructor at SAC. This marks a historic moment as the Backyard Theatre Company (BTC) opens its doors to the public for the very first time, having previously limited performances to family and friends. The show will also feature the lively musical number “Revolting Children” from Matilda by FUSION Musical Theatre and “Tales of the High Seas” by Dramatic Discovery. Scheduled for April 15, 2025, at 6:30 PM, the event will take place at the SRSS Theatre, with tickets going on sale on March 5, 2025. “In Search of TreasARRG” takes audiences on a thrilling pirate adventure filled with humor and excitement. The story follows two rival pirate crews, led by Black Barrel Billy and Captain Cut-Lassie, as they race to uncover the legendary treasure of Goldbeard. With unexpected twists, a bumbling admiral, and a sea serpent guarding secrets, this production promises to be a delightful spectacle for families of all ages. Jeremy Plett, who has been a pivotal figure in the local theatre community, expressed his enthusiasm: “I can’t wait to see how these talented young actors bring the wacky world of ‘In Search of TreasARRG’ to life on stage. This script is packed with zany adventures and hilarious mishaps, and I’m thrilled to watch the kids tackle it with their boundless energy and creativity. I’m confident they’ll do an amazing job, turning this pirate tale into a memorable spectacle that audiences of all ages will adore!” Joining Jeremy in this production is Assistant Director Akecia Peters, who brings her own passion for the arts as she teaches Dramatic Discovery. With a record-breaking registration of over 70 young performers aged 5 to 16, BTC has seen its largest turnout to date. This surge in interest highlights the growing popularity of theatre arts among local youth, providing them with a platform to develop their acting, creativity, and teamwork skills. The Steinbach Arts Council would like to thank Nature’s Farm for sponsoring our Backyard Theatre Company Program. Tickets are $10/person. To purchase, visit SteinbachArts.ca or call us at 204.346.1077.

SteinbachOnline.com: Steinbach Arts Council expands with spring programming

February 9, 2025 in /by

This article was originally published on SteinbachOnline.com: https://steinbachonline.com/articles/steinbach-arts-council-expands-with-spring-programming- It is a busy time of year for the Steinbach Arts Council with Fiddler on the Roof kicking off, the Southeast Open Judged Exhibit right around the corner, and of course, all of the programming that runs throughout the year.  Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs, says they’re adding to the fun by introducing spring programs.  “Up until this point, we ran our typical fall and winter sessions with our summer camps, of course. We added in some spring breakout camps a couple of years ago, and now we’ve taken that next step to add in the spring classes.”  Classes like pottery, creative wellness, and some new workshops are coming up this spring and are planned to run for eight weeks, right before summer camps kick off.  Kornelsen shares that it will be a mix of familiar favourites but with fresh starts.  “A mixed media for youth or a stop motion class. And of course, like our traditional yoga and strength circuit. Those things would all start off from the basics and work their way up. So, it’s basically feeding into that demand of what’s been happening in fall and winter and continuing right through.”  She explains that they decided to add this programming to allow for more growth and to serve different people in the community.  “We definitely have that buzz now and people are calling. They’re like ‘What do you have in spring? What’s going on in Spring?’ So, we got to fill the demand, and we are running out of space, but we’re going to find space and it’s going to be great.”  Programs at SAC have continued to grow over the years, and Kornelsen shares how this rapid expansion aligns with their ongoing efforts to better serve the public.  “Whether it’s different workshops or whether it’s different long week classes, it’s just adding more of those and having more instructors come to us to say we want to teach, we want to be involved. Which then turns into, how can we make this into a program that people love and bringing in the arts, the culture, the heritage, all the pieces together to make that run.”  They have even seen their programs double in size which has been a huge accomplishment.  “I like doubling programs,” she says. “It’s my favourite thing which we also have done this year, and our exhibit space. Everything is booming, which is what our goal is with programming.”  For more information on programs or to register for spring classes, visit the SAC website at steinbacharts.ca.  

SteinbachOnline.com: Steinbach art exhibit closes applications due to record level submissions

February 8, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) has shut down applications to its Southeast Open Judged Exhibit (SOJE) but not because they don’t want more submissions. “We’ve had an overwhelming response, which is so great,” says Cassandra Kornelsen, manager of SAC’s community programs. “We have gone up to over 150 entries and submissions, and we are out of room — we have maxed out our space.” The SAC says this is the largest number of registrations so far, in 45 years of service. Kornelsen says, to maneuver around some of the space challenges in the building, the arts council is opening up the basement of their newly expanded Hall Gallery.  “We’re definitely utilizing our space,” she says, noting there could be potential for the SAC to reconfigure how the exhibit looks in the future. Kornelsen says SOJE had a 30 per cent increase from the number of submissions they saw last year, which she attributes to communication about the event, and people being excited about the SAC. “People want their artwork seen, either just in the competitive area, or they want it in the noncompetitive area. They just want it to be seen,” she says, urging artists to apply again next year. “(SOJE) shows the different talent in the southeast. There’s so many hidden gems, and there’s so many people that feel like, ‘I don’t have 30 or 40 pieces that I can apply for an exhibit, but I have two key ones that I would love to share.’ “This gives an opportunity for amateur artists, and established artists that don’t have all those pieces together, to put their artwork in and still feel appreciated for their work,” Kornelsen says. SOJE’s opening ceremony is slated for Feb. 28, with artwork on display until March 28, 2025.  Well over 100 people are expected to be in attendance. This article was originall published by SteinbachOnline.com: https://steinbachonline.com/articles/steinbach-art-exhibit-closes-applications-due-to-record-level-submissions

SteinbachOnline.com: Steinbach Arts Council extends “Fiddler” run – again

January 22, 2025 in /by

This article was originally published by SteinbachOnline.com: https://www.steinbachonline.com/articles/steinbach-arts-council-extends-fiddler-run—again The excitement surrounding the Steinbach Arts Council’s community production of “Fiddler on the Roof” just got even bigger! After weeks of sold-out shows and a waiting list with folks hoping for one more chance, the Arts Council added an extra performance to the schedule.  David Klassen, Executive Director of the Steinbach Arts Council and the director of the production, is excited about the added performance. “Yeah, it’s big news! We have been working to find a solution for this sold-out ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ issue, that we’ve had for weeks, and we’ve finally found that solution. We have opened up an additional show, a 6th show. The extra performance will happen on Tuesday, February 4th.”  Tickets for the newly added show went on sale Friday, January 17, and Klassen is encouraging people to act quickly. “Right now is the time for you to try, one more time, to get those tickets.”  This marks the second time the production has had to add an extra performance. Back in December, a Saturday matinee was added to meet demand. The waiting list continued to grow, and after much discussion with the cast and crew, all of whom are volunteers, they agreed on February 4th as the perfect date for the additional show.  “We create a community here at the Steinbach Arts Council, and with a cast this size, there are more than 50 people involved on stage. It’s a big deal for us, and we had to ask the family how they felt about adding an extra show. The response has been so positive. Everyone is excited to be able to do this for our extended community, for the region, and for the city of Steinbach.” Tickets for the additional show can be purchased in two ways: online through the Steinbach Arts Council website, where patrons can choose their seats, or by calling their office at 346-1077 for assistance.  The full lineup of Fiddler on the Roof performances includes February 4th, 6th, 7th, 8th (two shows), and Sunday, February 9th at the SRSS Theatre in Steinbach. Klassen emphasized the dedication of the volunteers involved. “These people are all giving their time – thousands of hours go into a production like this, and it’s truly amazing to see their commitment. It’s not just about the incredible story of Fiddler on the Roof; it’s about how much the community is behind it.”  If you’ve been hoping to catch a show, now is your chance. But don’t wait too long—tickets for all performances have been selling out fast! 

Steinbach Arts Council Celebrates Local Talent with New Exhibits by Natalie Svingen and Jessie Jannuska

January 9, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is excited to invite the community to explore two remarkable exhibits featuring artists Natalie Svingen and Jessie Jannuska. These exhibits will be open for public viewing from January 10 to February 14, 2025. About the Artists: Natalie Svingen, a self-taught mixed media artist from Marchand, Manitoba, creates pieces that reflect her deep connection to nature and everyday life. Using materials like wood, clay, and paint, Natalie’s work is a testament to her passion and creativity. As a devoted wife and mother, she draws inspiration from her family and the beauty of her surroundings. She often volunteers at Wildlife Haven to give back to her community. Jessie Jannuska is a Winnipeg-based multidisciplinary Indigenous artist and a member of the Canupawakpa Dakota Nation. She employs various mediums, including mixed media, beadwork, and murals, to convey stories of healing and resilience. In this exhibit, visitors can expect to view large-scale comic strips drawn on fabric, each weaving narratives that reflect her Indigenous spirituality. Jannuska uses a cathartic lens to explore her culture and share the healing stories of other Indigenous peoples to inspire change. While there will be no formal opening ceremony for either exhibits, the Steinbach Arts Council encourages everyone to attend a special ceremony for Jessie Jannuska’s exhibit on January 31, 2025. This event will feature an afternoon artist talk, and a ceremony to follow at 6:00 pm. The program will include an Indigenous hoop dance performance, offering a unique opportunity for community engagement and appreciation of Indigenous culture. The Steinbach Arts Council expresses gratitude to the Steinbach Community Foundation for supporting the gallery expansion and to Good N Natural for sponsoring the Hall Gallery. For more information about the exhibits and upcoming events, please contact the Steinbach Arts Council at 204-346-1077.

SteinbachOnline.com: SAC offering a new program for adults interested in trying the art of improv

December 18, 2024 in /by

This article was originally published on SteinbachOnline.com: https://steinbachonline.com/articles/sac-offering-a-new-program-for-adults-interested-in-trying-the-art-of-improv- If you’ve ever been interested in improvised theatre, but didn’t know where to start, Foundations of Improv is for you.  It is a brand-new adult improv program at the Steinbach Arts Council that is being created by Alan Fehr.   He notes “I’ve been teaching improv to kids there for a number of years now, and me and David sat down, and we said, ‘why don’t we offer improv to adults as well?’  We thought that was a great idea, so this year we’re opening it up. We just want to create that space, that environment for people who want to work on their skills for presenting, for speaking, for just expressing themselves.”  Fehr says his goal is to create an environment where everyone can feel comfortable taking risks no matter their skill level. With no script to follow, he notes improvised theatre is special because it teaches you to think on your feet.  “Whether we like it or not, so much of our life is improvised. You don’t meet a friend on the street and have a script that you now need to follow. You see a person on the street that you want to chat with, and you just start talking, you feel that freedom to say what’s on your mind. It’s great to be able to harness, to tap into that in an improv setting.”  He adds “Sure, maybe we’re different characters, we’re fictional characters, but we’re still going to explore our relationship together by asking questions by answering questions and just making stuff up and discovering it as we go along. It’s a lot less scary once you’re actually in it.”  Not only is improv a wonderful tool for building presentation skills and confidence, but Fehr says it is also incredibly fun.  “You are creating something, it’s never been made before, and it will never be made again. This is the only time that this creation is going to be in existence, and when that scene is done, it’s done. It’s the perfect art form for just being in the moment and enjoying the act of creating.”  If you are interested in trying improv, or you know someone who might be, Fehr says registration is already open on the Steinbach Arts Council website. He adds classes will begin mid-January and run until the end of March. 

Fiddler on the Roof: Additional Show Added to Meet Community Demand

December 5, 2024 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is thrilled to announce the addition of a fifth performance of the community musical Fiddler on the Roof, scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 2 PM at the SRSS Theatre. This extra show has been added in response to overwhelming demand from the community. Fiddler on the Roof tells the poignant story of Tevye, a Jewish milkman in early 20th-century Russia, as he struggles to maintain his family’s traditions in the face of changing social norms. This Tony Award-winning musical, with its unforgettable music and heartfelt themes of love, tradition, and community, is sure to create lifelong memories for many people . “It is a privilege to direct a group of singers and actors that is so invested in a community production, and we know that it won’t disappoint.  This musical has significant meaning to many of our cast members, and this is an amazing way to celebrate 45 years of creating community,” says David Klassen, Director of the production, and Executive Director of the Steinbach Arts Council. SAC is proud to showcase the exceptional talent within our community, creating community through arts and culture. This family-friendly show is one that people of all ages can watch and relate to, making it an event for the entire community. Special acknowledgement goes to the Steinbach Credit Union for their generous sponsorship of this production. Their support plays a vital role in making community arts accessible to everyone. Don’t miss this memorable performance! Tickets for Fiddler on the Roof are available now at steinbacharts.ca or by calling 204-346-1077.

SteinbachOnline.com: Norma Barkman, founder of the Steinbach Arts Council, leaves lasting legacy

November 25, 2024 in /by

This post was originally published by SteinbachOnline.com: https://steinbachonline.com/articles/norma-barkman-founder-of-the-steinbach-arts-council-leaves-lasting-legacy- The Steinbach community is mourning the loss of Norma Gladys Barkman, a beloved local arts champion, who passed away peacefully on November 5th, at the age of 94. Her passing marks the end of an era for the city, but her legacy of nurturing the arts will continue to inspire for years to come.  Barkman was a passionate musician and a driving force behind the founding of the Steinbach Arts Council 45 years ago. Her deep love for music and the arts was evident throughout her life. She was a skilled pianist, organist, and music educator, and for more than 20 years, she served as the organist at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Barkman’s devotion to arts education extended to her home, where she hosted music theory exams and provided a welcoming space for aspiring musicians.  Executive Director at the Steinbach Arts Council, David Klassen says, “Norma was always committed to bringing people together and to education. It’s no surprise she was one of the founders of the Arts Council because that’s really what we are all about—bringing people together through the arts. She left behind a wonderful legacy.”  Barkman’s influence extended far beyond her role at the church or her work with the Arts Council. She was a natural connector, known for hosting after-performance parties at her home, where she brought together musicians, artists, and supporters of the arts. Her commitment to fostering a love of music and the arts in others was something she shared with everyone she met, including Cindi Rempel Patrick, a longtime community member and former Executive Director of the Arts Council. “I’ve known Norma my whole life.” Rempel-Patrick shared reflecting on her long relationship with the Barkman family.   “When I was just a little girl, I used to run over to her house and bang on her piano. She noticed right away and told my mom, ‘You need to get your daughter a piano.’ That was the start of it all for me.”   Rempel-Patrick credits Barkman with sparking her own passion for music and arts and for being a constant source of inspiration throughout her life. She notes that Barkman’s encouragement didn’t stop with her.  Rempel-Patrick says that Barkman was a guiding force for many in the community, always promoting the importance of being involved in both the arts and other activities like sports. She fondly remembers Barkman’s lively spirit and boundless energy.   “She was always busy, always doing something—exercising, singing in choirs, taking on new challenges. She showed me the value of being involved in everything, and how important it is to keep learning and trying new things.”  Barkman’s legacy of generosity and community spirit is carried on by her children and grandchildren, who are themselves active in the arts, sports, and community life.   “Her children are a reflection of everything she stood for. They carry on her love for music, her zest for life, and her commitment to giving back.”  Barkman’s memorial service was held on Wednesday, November 13 at Birchwood Funeral Chapel in Steinbach.  In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Steinbach Arts Council.  Barkman’s memory will live on in the many lives she touched, the arts she helped nurture, and the community she helped build.