Students aspiring to have professional careers in the performing arts but who face financial barriers have an exciting new opportunity available to them, thanks to the generosity of the R. Howard Webster Foundation.

For three years beginning in May 2014, Bursaries for Aspiring Artists will be available to incoming students accepted into one of Holland College’s School of Performing Arts (SoPA) programs.  Talented artists who wish to pursue post-secondary training in the performing arts but who face financial barriers are eligible to apply.  Bursary amounts will vary based on need with the minimum value being $1,000.

SoPA, a partnership between Holland College and Confederation Centre of the Arts, opened its doors in September 2011, offering a two-year Music Performance program and a one-year Performing Arts Foundation program. The following September, a two-year Dance Performance program was added, and a two-year Theatre Performance program followed in 2013.

Maria Driscoll, Coordinating Director for the Holland College School of Performing Arts, said that SoPA is filling an important need in the region.

“Atlantic Canada continues to offer excellent youth and secondary school programming which produces students who are eager to pursue post-secondary education and training in the performing arts,” said Driscoll.  “The Holland College School of Performing Arts now provides that post-secondary opportunity for students to develop their artistic skills, share their passion of music, dance, and theatre, explore career options in the performing arts, and gain an understanding of the business component of the performance industry.”

The R. Howard Webster Foundation is the legacy of the generous vision and business genius of R. Howard Webster.  Inspired by his father, the late Honourable Lorne C. Webster and his philanthropic work, R. Howard Webster began his philanthropic career in 1948 when he founded the R. Howard Webster Foundation to help worthy causes and people.  Following his death, the R. Howard Webster Foundation has honoured his vision and continued this work.

“We are really pleased to have the support of The R. Howard Webster Foundation,” said Holland College President Dr. Brian McMillan.  “The investment that they’ve made will significantly increase accessibility for students who aspire to have professional careers in the performing arts.”

For more information or to apply, visit Student Awards.