January 29, 2014

A documentary filmmaker, TV producer and published author, Catherine Annau has recently joined Medicine Hat College (MHC) as the manager of visual and performing arts. Her portfolio includes overseeing both the conservatory of music and dance as well as the visual communications program.

“I’m passionate about culture; and I really wanted to get involved in sharing and promoting it while working with people of all ages who want to learn and experience it,” said Annau.

Annau has already been in the community meeting with cultural stakeholders to see where MHC can partner.

“I’m interested in making the Cultural Centre a destination of choice, in creating synergies between organizations so that we can continue to offer a culturally diverse and enriched experience,” said Annau. “This will help us ensure that whether people are here to take lessons, listen to fantastic concerts or want to see great works of art created by students, teachers or members of the communities they are getting the most out of their time with us.”

Annau explained that one of her goals in the upcoming year is to expand MHC’s reach and attract new people into the building by offering different programming, workshops and master classes as well as bringing in professionals from around the world to mentor and facilitate learning experiences.

A recent example of this being that the creators from the Atlantic Ballet of Canada’s Ghost of Violence performance took time during their tour to give master classes to our ballet students as well as hosted lectures on how producing a work of art can change the way communities feel about and react to domestic violence.

Annau encourages the public to continue to keep an eye out for exciting events in 2014 including the opening of a state-of-the-art visual communications building later this year.

 “I’m really impressed by the incredible level of musicality and talented artists in this city. People are really committed to the arts here. It’s an incredible place with remarkable resources,” said Annau. “We want to ensure that we continue to support that and ensure that MHC is seen as a vital part of this community.”

If you are interested in learning more about what is up and coming for MHC’s division or arts including the conservatory, visit: www.mhc.ab.ca. 

If you are interested in getting involved and connecting with Catherine Annau to explore opportunities to partner or get involved contact her at cannau@mhc.ab.ca or 403.529.4853.