Nanaimo Cultural Champions Honored

City’s Cultural Awards Presented

The City of Nanaimo celebrated the achievements of two of the community’s cultural champions at the Port Theatre last night (Thursday, March 14th). The ‘Excellence in Culture’ award was presented to the Vancouver Island Symphony and the ‘Honour in Culture’ award to arts / culture advocate and supporter Eveline O’Rourke. These once in a lifetime achievement awards recognize the best of Nanaimo’s arts and cultural volunteers and artistic talent. It gives us an opportunity to celebrate our arts and cultural achievements and build a legacy of cultural vitality in our community.

A highlight of the evening was a surprise performance from Maestro Calvin Dick who came into the theatre from the back playing a medley of amazing music on his violin. Everyone’s eyes followed him all the way to the stage where he continued to dazzle the audience with his performance.

Each year, the ‘Excellence in Culture’ award is presented to an organization or individual that has achieved regional and/or national recognition in the field of arts and culture. The recipient of this award is recognized as a ‘Nanaimo Artist’, having demonstrated excellence in their field, and as being an inspiration to others. The Vancouver Island Symphony received the ‘Excellence in Culture Award’ for its musical and artistic excellence for the last 17 years.
Under the artistic direction of conductor, Pierre Simard, the Vancouver Island Symphony is a professional orchestra that presents an 8-10 concert season of world-class orchestral performances at the Port Theatre. By attracting professional musicians and soloists from across the country, offering special outreach programs and engaging volunteers, the VIS serves as a creative asset for Nanaimo and the Central Island region. Its wide-reaching audience and commitment to education concerts for youth are helping to keep music live and foster the next generation of audiences and performers.

The ‘Honour in Culture’ Award is presented to an individual, group or corporation that is known for their dedication and support of the development of the cultural fabric of Nanaimo. Eveline O’Rourke was recommended for the ‘award for her strong advocacy and support of cultural advancement of Nanaimo. Eveline believes that Cultural amenities are absolute necessities and have a positive impact on our daily lives. Eveline has been a valued member of the Nanaimo Museum Board and a member of the Cultural Committee for 15 years. When the Vancouver Island Symphony was first established Eveline was involved on the board and soon became president. Her ongoing leadership and support of the VIS has earned her an Honorary Concert Master's chair in perpetuity. Eveline's love of music, the performing and visual arts, her many talents, volunteer efforts and accomplishments have helped define our city's dynamic creative sector. Her numerous connections in our community continue to provide strong links and partnership opportunities.

Nominations for both awards are reviewed by the Cultural Committee with recommendations to the Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission for their endorsement. The awards are presented each year by City Council.

The awards, which are framed photographs of the recipient, are then displayed in the Margaret Strongitharm Gallery at the Port Theatre. The Nanaimo Cultural Committee gratefully acknowledges the generous donation of professional photography services of Gary Peters.