Entries by Angelica San Juan

STEINBACHONLINE: Steinbach Arts Council highlights record year and new goals

September 13, 2025 in /by

This article is originally posted in SteinbachOnline.com: https://steinbachonline.com/articles/steinbach-arts-council-highlights-record-year-and-new-goals The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) held their Annual General Meeting this week, sharing a year full of growth and achievement.  A year of highlights  Executive Director David Klassen says it’s difficult to choose a single highlight because the entire year has been exceptional.  “It’s been full of busy hallways and busy parking lots and a building and our events that are bustling. So we’re excited about the growth and all of the enthusiasm in the community.”  He adds that participation is stronger than ever.  “That’s a real highlight. Our programs are growing and we’re reaching more people. Our bursaries are expanding. We’re able to continue running free programs, really without limitation of imagination. So, we’re excited to get more involved in that sort of thing.”  Klassen notes that merging with the Southeastern Manitoba Festival was another milestone the organization is proud of.  New leadership  Taylor Brandt, a four-year board member and recent Vice-Chair, has stepped into the role of Board Chair.  “I’m excited,” Brandt says. “We have a great team. The team of Board of Directors and getting to lead them, and be around David and his team is just such a blessing.”  Goeff Dilts is the new Vice-Chair, and Marissa Wiebe has joined the board, filling the seat of outgoing member Leslie Paulet.  Financial overview  SAC reported record revenue of $1,063,628 this year, with operating expenses of $1,088,817, resulting in a $25,189 deficit.  Brandt says the shortfall isn’t a concern.  “The deficit this year was mainly caused by some adjustments that were needing to be made, and we’re not concerned about the position that we’re in. We’re really excited for next year.”  Challenges and opportunities  Klassen says their biggest challenge is space.  “The space that we’re working with is often a challenge. We find that it’s one that we’re willing to tackle and it’s a good problem to have. We have so many people moving through our centre. Our classrooms aren’t big enough. We continue to have waiting lists for students who don’t have room in the classrooms that we are actually functioning with.”  The team is exploring creative solutions, including using alternative venues and satellite programs. Concert space remains another hurdle.  “We continue to work through that as well. But these are things that are not insurmountable for us and we’re excited to continue being creative and innovative in how we program and continuing to offer people in this region world-class entertainment.”  Continued growth  Attendance and program numbers have not only returned to pre-pandemic levels but are still climbing.  “I think we’re lucky for a supportive community around us. I think we’re lucky that people want what we have to offer. We also are fortunate enough to have a highly functioning team here at the Arts Centre that can pour energy and enthusiasm into bringing people back.”  Klassen credits their volunteers.  “We have such an amazing team of people that are right there, they’re passionate about the work that they do and they’re eager to get people back into the room. So for concerts, we are very fortunate, and we look forward to continuing that growth mentality.”  What’s next for SAC Brandt says she is excited for the upcoming year.  “There are so many things that we’re right on the brink of getting to talk about and getting to share with our community. And I think in the coming months, there’s going to be a lot for us to talk about.”  Klassen agrees, noting that they enjoy thinking creatively and envision developing programs that explore therapeutic arts.  “That allows people to be more emotionally expressive and supported through arts forms. So, music therapy and art therapy are things that we dream about, and we think are very valuable to the health and well-being of our community and kids.”  He adds that they are looking forward to continuing and building great partnerships.  “We partner with a lot of other non-profits in the city. We partner with the local school division. We are looking for every opportunity to make sure that our resources are available to people, whether they want them or they don’t know they need them. But partnerships are a real priority for us moving forward.”  Member highlight  The meeting ended with a tradition, recognizing the SAC Member of the Year. Chris Winkler was honoured for his dedication on stage, behind the scenes, and as a volunteer. His performance in Fiddler on the Roof was highlighted, where he shared the stage with both his father and daughter.  “Congratulations, Chris. We are fortunate to work together with you to keep our organization thriving!”  SAC Member of the Year Chris Winkler and David Klassen.

STEINBACHONLINE: Steinbach Arts Council expands to satellite sites as programs outgrow building

September 6, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is moving beyond its building as programs continue to grow and space becomes limited. Program coordinator Kristi Peters says the organization has reached full capacity, running more programs than ever before while balancing rentals, user groups, and special events. “Our building is bursting at the seams,” says Peters. “We have very full capacity basically 24/7. We continually want to expand our workshops, but we have no more space to do so. So this year we are really trying to focus on our satellite programming.” Three satellite locations this fall To meet growing demand, SAC is partnering with Rest Haven Care Home, Fernwood Place, and Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) to host workshops. Peters says these spaces were chosen because of their accessibility and the strong partnerships already in place. “For places like Rest Haven and Fernwood, it’s a really good opportunity to provide programming directly to their residents,” she explains. “Some residents don’t have the mobility to leave their building, so this way they can take part right where they live.” Workshops include a Filipino Parol Christmas lantern-making class at MHV, Métis finger weaving at Fernwood, and a driftwood wind chime workshop at Rest Haven. Peters adds that SAC hopes to expand to even more community locations in the future. New developments at SAC Along with satellite programming, SAC is expanding its long-running Backyard Theatre Company by adding a musical theatre program. “This will highlight all the different skills kids can learn under a few different instructors,” says Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs at the Steinbach Arts Council. “There are no auditions—it’s about building skills, singing, dancing, and having fun.” Kornelsen says the new program will complement existing opportunities in Steinbach and provide another entry point for young performers. She notes that interest in theatre and musical programming is consistently strong in the community. Looking ahead Both Kornelsen and Peters say the main challenge for SAC is space, but it is a challenge they welcome. “We have some really good problems on our hands,” says Kornelsen. “The pottery program is exploding, culinary arts continues to grow, and now we’re planning ahead into next summer and fall to make sure we’re prepared.” SAC also keeps an ongoing list of local artists who express interest in teaching, which Kornelsen says helps keep programming fresh and community-driven. “The growth excites us,” she says. “It’s such a great feeling to see so many people come through the Steinbach Arts Council and to expand opportunities across the community.”

Steinbach Arts Council expands community reach with workshops

August 26, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is thrilled to announce the expansion of our workshop series, designed to connect community members with the arts in exciting new ways. This year’s offerings extend beyond the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, reaching out to community spaces through satellite workshops including Fernwood Place, Rest Haven Care Home, Pat Porter Active Living Centre and the Mennonite Heritage Village. The initiative, a key component of SAC’s commitment to creating a community through arts and culture, brings enriching and hands-on learning experiences directly to residents, it also makes SAC programming accessible to a wider audience and allowing for more workshops to be facilitated due to increasing demand and nearly full capacity at the current SAC location. This workshop series caters to a wide range of interests and skill levels.  Participants can delve into cultural heritage through workshops like Cultural Papercutting Art, inspired by Swiss, Japanese, and Mexican traditions.  Indigenous art is also highlighted with Métis Finger Weaving, and Métis Driftwood & Windchime Making workshops. The holiday season kicks off with a festive workshop on creating the iconic Filipino Christmas lantern, the Parol and continues with Holiday Dips and Charcuterie Board workshops.   Beyond cultural exploration, participants can acquire practical skills like preserving food with canning, learning beginner stained glass techniques, mastering the art of sourdough bread baking, or creating beautiful candles. These practical workshops aim to ignite the community’s personal passion for a craft, offer avenues for professional development, or even inspire new small businesses. All workshops are taught by dedicated instructors, experts in their craft and strongly connected to the cultural traditions they share, ensuring a rich and authentic learning experience. “There is something for everyone at The Steinbach Arts Council especially with the addition of several workshops at SAC and newly developed satellite workshops throughout the community,” says Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs at the Steinbach Arts Council. “Notably, there has been an increase in requests for more workshops throughout the fall, winter and spring.  We have created a workshop calendar that will provide more to the community with a great range of variety. “ SAC’s Culture & Heritage workshops are made possible with support from Mark & Bonnie Loewen and Steinbach Hatchery & Feeds. For a complete schedule and registration information, visit SteinbachArts.ca/Workshops or call 204.346.1077. For interviews, please contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications & Outreach Coordinatormarketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077

2025 Annual General Meeting

August 20, 2025 in /by

Attention: Steinbach Arts Council Members and Board of Directors Members of the Steinbach Arts Council Community Arts Organizations, Artist, Crafters and Musicians User Groups of Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre Business Owners, City of Steinbach and RM of Hanover Council The Steinbach Arts Council Board of directors would like to remind our members and stakeholders of our upcoming Annual General Meeting, on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 7:30PM. The meeting will be held in the SCU Studio, Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre located at 304 Second Street. Public is invited to attend.  All SAC members receive one vote. Agenda: For more information, please contact:  David Klassen, Executive Director                                         Dklassen@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077

Camps at Steinbach Arts Council filled to capacity this summer

August 18, 2025 in /by

This article was originally published on SteinbachOnline: https://steinbachonline.com/articles/camps-at-steinbach-arts-council-filled-to-capacity-this-summer It has been a packed summer at the Steinbach Arts Council (SAC), with day camps running at full capacity and new programming on the horizon.  Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs at SAC, says this year’s camps expanded to full days and two additional weeks. “The day camps have been just—the word is great. We are full, full, full,” she says.  Highlights from summer camps  The camps featured a wide range of activities and field trips that kept children engaged throughout the season. Kornelsen notes that campers enjoyed a visit with horses from Cloud 9 Rance, gymnastics at Flippers, and learning about animals through Prairie Exotics and Wildlife Haven.  Special theme days also stood out, including Medieval Week with Jeremy Plett, volleyball with Olympian Michelle Sawatzky-Koop, and trips to the Mennonite Heritage Village. Kornelsen adds that daily swims at the Aquatic Centre were another highlight.  “Our field trips have been a huge hit,” she says. “The kids have been having such a great time.”  Fall programming filling up  As summer winds down, SAC is turning its attention to fall and winter programming. Registration opened in mid-July, and Kornelsen says demand is already strong. “We’re trying to figure out how we can plug in some more classes in the different empty spaces,” she explains. “There is still room to register, but we are starting to really notice an increase.”  This season includes more than 30 workshops ranging from stained glass to canning, paper design, and holiday gift making. In November, a Filipino lantern-making class will add a cultural element to the lineup.  Arts for all ages  Kornelsen emphasizes that SAC programming is designed for all ages. The Arts for Tots preschool program, led by Miss Pam and Miss Jamie, returns this fall, while music lessons with Southeast Music Centre, dance through Boss Dance Academy, and theater with the Backyard Theatre Company offer options for older children and youth.  A new musical theatre program for ages six to 16 will also launch this fall, divided into two age groups. Kornelsen says more details will be released in the coming weeks.  Building community through the arts  Kornelsen says providing accessible arts programming is a meaningful part of SAC’s work. “It’s a very heartwarming feeling. We work really hard at the Arts Council to do what we do best, and that’s provide for the community, show our passion and really build those community relationships,” she says.  Information on fall registration is available on the Steinbach Arts Council website or by calling 204-346-1077 or visiting the centre. 

Canadian folk music award winner Ian Sherwood comes to share his soulful music in Steinbach.

August 14, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is proud to kick off the 2025-2026 Concert Series with award-winning East Coast singer-songwriter Ian Sherwood, performing live on Thursday, October 9 at 7:30 PM at the SRSS Theatre. A masterful guitarist and saxophonist with a voice that earned him a Canadian Folk Music Award for Contemporary Singer, Sherwood is known for bringing light, energy, and connection to every stage he steps onto. Blending folk roots with pop sensibilities, his music is rich in storytelling and emotional depth. “To see Ian perform live is to be truly entertained,” says Tara Schellenberg, the Steinbach Arts Council Performing Arts Coordinator, “He’s an amazingly gifted musician and songwriter, and his storytelling is rich with humour and charm. His live-looping on stage allows him to bring a full sound to a solo show – and it’s fascinating to boot!” Ian Sherwood’s charismatic live performances thrive in intimate theatre settings, drawing audiences in with warmth, wit, and musical brilliance – an experience you won’t want to miss. The Steinbach Arts Council would like to thank Herbsigwil Farms for sponsoring this concert. Tickets are $34 for adults and $17 for students, and will be available for purchase beginning August 14th, 2025. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit SteinbachArts.ca or call 204.346.1077. To arrange an interview, please contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinator204.346.1077 | marketing@steinbacharts.ca

Newly Selected Artists To Exhibit During the 2025-2026 Season

August 13, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is thrilled to announce its lineup for the 2025-2026 Hall Gallery Exhibit Season. The Hall Gallery will once again transform into a dynamic canvas, featuring diverse mediums and perspectives from local and regional artists. The exhibits curated annually by SAC fulfill its mission to create community through arts and culture. “Our local artists represent diverse backgrounds and express themselves through various forms,” shares Mallory Stang, exhibit contact for the Steinbach Arts Council. “Art has a unique power to unite people, spark dialogue, and reflect shared experiences. While strengthening community ties, we’ve welcomed contributions from groups like the Steinbach Christian School, the SAC Photo Club and we’ll also be displaying artwork by our SAC students. As with every year we are excited to see the exhibits on display to learn and be inspired by our selected artists.” Below is the schedule for the 2025-2026 Hall Gallery and Ledingham Studio Exhibit lineup: September 5 – October 10, 2025• “Dual Impressions” by Textile and Fibre Artists of Manitoba• SAC Student Exhibit October 17 – November 21, 2025• “Elements and Encounters” by Photo Club November 24 – January 2, 2026• Buy or Lease Christmas SaleJanuary 9 – February 20, 2026• “Tension: A beautiful conflict” by Steinbach Christian School February 27 – March 26, 2026• Southeast Open Judged Exhibit April 10 – May 15, 2026• “Sisters” by Cynthia Hiebert• SAC Student Exhibit May 22 – June 26, 2026• “Shifting Realms: Ocean, Earth & Ether” by Tanya Penner• “Woven in the Wild” by Leah Bernard The opening ceremonies for the individual exhibits are held at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre at 6 PM unless otherwise stated. The Steinbach Arts Council encourages the community to mark their calendars and experience what each exhibit this season promises to deliver. You can find information about the artist and their artwork by visiting SteinbachArts.ca/Exhibits. ### To arrange an interview, please contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinator204.346.1077 | marketing@steinbacharts.ca

Steinbach Arts Council Announces Dynamic 2025-2026 Concert Series

August 11, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is proud to unveil its 2025–2026 Concert Series, featuring an outstanding lineup of music and theatre that promises to entertain, inspire, and connect audiences of all ages. With five captivating performances from across the country, this season showcases the best of Canadian talent in music and drama—all right here in Steinbach. Kicking off the season on Thursday, October 9, Ian Sherwood’s concert, sponsored by Herbsigwil Farms Ltd, brings east coast charm to the SRSS Theatre. A Canadian Folk Music Award winner known for his rich storytelling and genre-blurring style, Sherwood’s charismatic performance combines folk-pop songs with saxophone, guitar, and sharp wit.  On Sunday, November 2, the spotlight shifts to classical brilliance with Prairie Debut artist, Prairie Sons—a powerhouse duo featuring cellist David Liam Roberts and pianist Godwin Friesen. Hailing from the prairies and named to CBC’s “Hot 30 Classical Musicians Under 30,” this pair delivers electrifying and emotionally rich performances that showcase their deep musical connection. Ring in the holiday season on Tuesday, December 2 at Crossview Church with the beloved Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra Holiday Tour featuring special guests Erin Propp & Larry Roy. With holiday favourites and featuring local talent, this heartwarming, family-friendly event sponsored by Three Way Builders is a festive tradition that is sure to sell out quickly. The series continues into the new year with Proximus 5 on Friday, February 6 at Grace Church. This acclaimed male a cappella group from Winnipeg stuns audiences with impeccable harmonies and a genre-spanning repertoire—from ancient choral music to contemporary pop. This concert will include a special collaboration with the SRSS Chamber Choir, directed by Kristel Peters. Rounding out the season is a theatrical gem from the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre’s Regional Tour. On Sunday, March 1, Hockey Mom, Hockey Dad hits the SRSS Theatre stage—a hilarious and heartfelt play about finding love in the bleachers of a minor hockey rink. Full of sharp dialogue, emotion, and Canadiana charm, this production will resonate with theatre lovers and hockey fans alike. Season tickets are now available and offer great value—just $130 for five shows (seniors: $120), plus SAC membership. Individual concert tickets are $34 for adults and $17 for students and will be available for purchase beginning August 14th, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unforgettable season of music and theatre in your community. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit SteinbachArts.ca or call 204.346.1077. ###For interviews, contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinatormarketing@steinbacharts.ca | 204.346.1077

Steinbach Arts Council Continues to Offer High Quality Programming in Fall of 2025

July 21, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is thrilled to announce registration for 2025 Fall Classes will open to the public on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Continuing the momentum from the success and growth of last year, with many sold-out classes and workshops, the Steinbach Arts Council is excited to offer quality, creative, and unique learning opportunities for the community. “The growth in participation in classes and the consecutive learning in classes were highlights of the year. We know that there is an increasing demand for arts, culture, and recreation in our community, and we’re excited to offer more great opportunities this year. We saw hundreds of participants in our classes last year, and we had an outstanding response to the increase in programming, receiving positive and supportive feedback from those who participated,” says Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs at the Steinbach Arts Council. The Steinbach Arts Council offers a diverse range of programs from children to adults, including its flagship programs, such as the Arts4tots Preschool Program, sponsored by Oakridge Garden Centre, and the Backyard Theatre Company, sponsored by Nature’s Farm. SAC is also home to the Steinbach Children’s & Youth Chorus and offers introductory dance classes in partnership with BOSS Dance Academy. Additionally, SAC hosts culinary arts classes, sponsored by Main Bread & Butter, and provides a variety of visual arts classes, from pottery to painting, drawing, and more, catering to all skill levels. This fall season, the free After School Arts Programs will return, featuring classes in improv, culinary arts, guitar, fiddle, pottery, and visual arts for students in grades 5-12. SAC is also particularly excited about continuing to offer more cultural and heritage workshops, including Metis Finger Weaving, Metis Driftwood Windchime Making, Paper Cutting Art, Filipino Parol Making, and more, made possible by the generous support of Mark & Bonnie Loewen and Steinbach Hatchery & Feed. The Steinbach Arts Council has dedicated instructors, whose passion and expertise enrich the community. These instructors, both long-time contributors and new additions, are integral to SAC’s mission of creating community through arts and culture. The community is encouraged to check out the updated class list and register through the Steinbach Arts Council’s website, SteinbachArts.ca, or by calling 204.346.1077. To arrange an interview, please contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinator204.346.1077 | marketing@steinbacharts.ca

KR Barkman Concerts in the Park – Free Outdoor Concerts Celebrate Community

May 21, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is pleased to announce that your favourite FREE outdoor concert series is back this summer. KR Barkman Concerts in the Park are for the whole family, featuring local performers across a variety of genres – folk, pop, classical, punk, Southern Gospel, classic rock, theatre, and more! “The KR Barkman Concerts in the Park series is a great way to celebrate the talent in our region and kick off the summer season in Steinbach,” says Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator. “We had many performer applications this year and we’re looking forward to hearing both familiar groups as well as some newer emerging artists!” Everyone is encouraged to bring their lawn chairs or blanket to the KR Barkman Park on Tuesday, May 27th at 6:30pm for the first outdoor concert of 2025, and plan to enjoy the music through to June 10th. To find KR Barkman Park, head southeast down Main Street, just past the Steinbach Fire Hall, and look for the gazebo. Weather cancellations will be posted on the Steinbach Arts Council social media. 2025 KR Barkman Concerts in the Park Schedule May 27 – Paradise on Fire, Acorns & Armchairs, Kites & LightsMay 29 – Abandoning Abby, New Covenant Quartet, Darryl Marsch BandJune 3 – Mother Burden, P NoiseJune 5 – Father & Son, Louden King, The ChammartinsJune 10 – Looking Glass Theatre, Southeast Brass Quintet The Steinbach Arts Council is delighted to partner with the Barkman Concrete Foundation to continue this summer tradition of featuring local artists and bringing our community together in celebration of music and arts. Thanks to Barkman Concrete Foundation for their support in providing free community concerts.