Saskatchewan Arts Council Cancels 2020-2021 Season
By Mallorie Rast
Late last week, the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Council (OSAC) made an announcement which they have never given in over 50 years of existence.
On July 8th, OSAC announced the cancellation of their 2020-2021 season, affecting over 179 booked events with artists from across Canada. As a member of the OSAC, the Kindersley & District Arts Council was also included in the decision and will not be hosting cross-provincial tours associated with OSAC until, at least, Fall 2021.
“We are not happy to have to announce this,” said Gladys McCarthy, president of the Kindersley Arts council. “But we are already looking forward to hopefully hosting the 2021-2022 season next fall.”
The season cancellation was brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. With priorities set on health and safety, recognition of group-size guidelines, and observance of travel restrictions, the OSAC felt it best to cancel the entire season until further notice.
“The OSAC Staff has done an excellent job of navigating their way through these unprecedented times and will continue to have the full support of the OSAC Board as they move forward through this global pandemic,” said OSAC Board Chair Treena Redman in a July 8th media release.
OSAC Executive Director Kevin Korchinski echoed Redman, noting that “These are truly extraordinary times.” Then he added, “We hope to be able to continue ‘Bringing The Arts To You’ in the Fall of 2021.”
Kindersley arts council president Gladys McCarthy, says there is hope that Kindersley may be able to enjoy some of the arts this year. The council is currently making inquiries and considering options into hosting their events featuring local talent–thus reducing the risk that travelling artists bring. However, since the fall season is a long way off in light of the current pandemic, it is still too early to tell if even a shadow of the planned 2020-2021 season will carry on.
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