2011 Push Festival

The PuSh International Performing Arts Festival is produced over three weeks each January, and showcases acclaimed international, Canadian and local artists and mixes them together to inspire audiences, rejuvenates artists, stimulates the industry and forge productive relationships.

In addition to animating public spaces in the Downtown Eastside (DTES) with a collection of artistic works, the PuSh Festival provided employment opportunities for Downtown Eastside residents through a highly rewarding mentorship program on theatrical production, site-specific installation, front of house, and festival event coordination. Specifically, the PuSh Festival provided opportunities in rehearsal and production crews on three different theatrical productions (100% Vancouver, Iqualit and PodPlays), presented in DTES venues as part of the Festival’s programming.

Mentorship opportunities have afforded DTES residents with skills development, industry contacts, and career advancement. Involving local residents in high profile projects and festivals fosters civic pride and creates a legacy of social, community and cultural development.

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