BANFF – The 40th anniversary of the Midsummer Ball at the Banff Centre has left the arts and creativity venue with over $1 million in raised funds.
The ball, which is touted as the largest arts fundraiser in Western Canada, is integral to the centre's ability to provide current and emerging artists with mentorship, education and inspiration.
In a press release sent out Sunday (July 21), Janice Price, president and CEO of the Banff Centre, said its greatful for all the contributions from donors, amounting in $1,211,000. By 8 p.m. Sunday, the final count was $1.27 million.
"Banff Centre is Canada's largest postgraduate arts and leadership training institution, which attracts more than 4,000 artists and leaders to our campus every year for life changing programs," said Price.
"The funds raised will allow us to continue this important work."
Over 300 influential leaders, philanthropists and art supporters from across the country attended the three day event, according to the press release.
"The ball is an unforgettable fusion of intimate performances, conversations with artists, and outstanding cuisine," the release said.
The Midsummer Ball kicked off Friday (July 19) with a silent auction, cuisine from the Three Ravens Restaurant and Wine Bar, and fabulous performances like that of violinist Aisslinn Nosky and Indigenous dancer Santee Smith.
The Banff Centre's newly appointed vice president of development, Sarah Nelems, said the event helps to offer more than 120 courses every year.
“Without this fundraising weekend and ongoing support, we wouldn’t be able to serve nearly 4,000 artists and leaders who come to our programs every year,” she said.
The events major sponsors include WestJet, RBC Capital Markets, and Husky, to name a few. The $1.2 million raised will go towards the Banff Centre’s Artists’ Fund.
