Release - City of Barrie
The Emerging Artist program is back with a newly added Busking program pilot to animate downtown Barrie. Emerging Artists and buskers can be found at various times throughout the downtown core.
The City of Barrie is continuing its partnership with the Canadian Musicians Co-operative (the Co-op) to offer the Emerging Artist program which supports young artists in developing skills within the music industry. The program also provides a platform to incubate and showcase Emerging Artists while creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere in the city's core.
“It’s exciting for the Emerging Artists to be out animating our public spaces after two years away,” says Jessica Spurrell, who has been both an Emerging Artist and Program Coordinator for the Co-op since 2019. “And I know everyone is super-excited for the Emerging Artists Showcase again this August!”
New this year are two branded “Busk Stops” in downtown Barrie as part of the Busking program pilot. This program provides the opportunity for performing artists that are not eligible for the Emerging Artist program to obtain a permit to busk in these locations for the remainder of 2022. Busk stops will be located at the Barrie Marina Office next to the transient docks and on the east side of the Five Points Theatre.
“We’re very excited to add a new opportunity to the mix of downtown programming,” said Stephannie Schlichter, Director, Economic & Creative Development. “Barrie is full of incredible artists and this Busking pilot program provides a platform for artists at all ages and stages to perform. Providing an opportunity for these talented live performers adds to the already exciting and dynamic atmosphere in downtown Barrie.”
Full program details including how you can apply for your busking permit can be found at barrie.ca/busking
banner image: file photo
