PotashCorp has contributed $100,000 to become the Saskatchewan Presenting Partner for “Prairie Scene” – a festival that will celebrate the works of accomplished artists from Manitoba and Saskatchewan this Spring in Ottawa.

“At PotashCorp, our travels provide us the opportunity to be ambassadors for our province and talk about Saskatchewan's talented people, our natural resources and the opportunities available,” said Bill Doyle, President and CEO of PotashCorp. “We’re delighted to join the NAC in an initiative that will showcase our artists, and the rich artistic legacy of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, for Canada and all the world to enjoy.”

Prairie Scene is the fifth in a series of biennial festivals designed to celebrate every region of the country and fulfill the Centre’s mandate to promote and profile artistic expression from all parts of Canada. It will showcase more than 500 artists from the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, in every artistic discipline, from April 26 to May 8, 2011 at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa.

The work of these artists will also be featured in more than 20 venues across the Nation’s Capital, ranging from art galleries, community theatres, local bistros and lounges.

“Prairie Scene is designed to boost the careers of the Prairie’s established and emerging artists,” explained Jayne Watson, CEO of the National Arts Centre Foundation. “The impact of this experience for these artists promises to be enormous given the profile and exposure they will receive throughout the festival.”

“We’re especially excited about the special focus that will be placed on the unique contributions of this region’s First Nations and Metis artists,” added Heather Moore, Producer and Executive Director of Prairie Scene.

The event is expected to draw interest from across Canada and around the world, with nearly 60 North American and international talent scouts who are expected to attend and book showings, exhibitions and performances for their home audiences.