ARTS LETTER

JULY 2026

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2026 
ANNE LAURIER SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Savannah Bourne

Savannah, a graduate of Orangeville District Secondary School, is heading toward a future that includes animation. The selection committee was impressed by her short essay which emphasized points of human connection over the oncoming impacts of AI. She is already the recipient of numerous art awards and will no doubt succeed in her studies at Humber Polytechnic. Teaching younger children was a key component of Savannah’s application, indicating her interest in sharing her skills for the benefit of others. We wish you every success, Savannah!

Audrey Hawkins

Audrey is a graduate of Centre Dufferin District High School in Shelburne and is heading to the University of Toronto. She submitted a portfolio demonstrating her skills and enthusiasm for acting, including her participation in a number of local productions. But that’s not all. Audrey is also a musician who plays multiple instruments and participates in various musical endeavours. Her civic activities in school and her community engagement in multiple ways helped confirm that the scholarship has found a wonderful recipient. Best of luck in Toronto, Audrey!

Kaitlyn Paula

Kaitlyn submitted stunning videos of her dance performances that were a joy to watch and vividly reflected her passion for her craft. As a graduate of Mayfield Secondary School, and heading to Point Park University’s School of Dance in Pennsylvania, she is well on her way to success. Like other applicants, Kaitlyn expressed the desire and importance of connecting with community and audiences via storytelling. We very much look forward to tracking her path forward. We hope you’ll stay in touch, Kaitlyn!

TWO STIMULATING EVENTS TO BRIGHTEN THE DOG DAYS OF AUGUST 

DUFFERIN FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES ITS LINEUP

Now in its third year and already a local institution, the Dufferin Film Festival has announced a lineup of 19 short films to be showcased in Orangeville during the festival weekend, August 14 to 16. 

This year's offerings include films and filmmakers from across Canada, spanning documentary, drama, comedy, horror and animation.

Check out the DFF website for film details, ticket info, and additional festival programming, including workshops, networking events, filmmaker Q&As, and special events.

AUTHORS IN THE HILLS: UNLEASHING A WEB OF SECRETS

Terry Fallis
The Marionette

Linwood Barclay
Not a Word

Heather Marshall
Liberty Street

It’s become a highlight of August, and BookLore is once again hosting three celebrated Canadian authors and their latest books. On August 23, enjoy an afternoon of espionage, crime and secrets revealed as Terry Fallis, Linwood Barclay and Heather Marshall take to the stage in a large, airy barn high in the Mulmur hills. Tickets are $40, and as always, they're going fast, so reserve now at BookLore, Shelburne Library and the Mulmur Township office.

“FUNNY, YOU DON’T LOOK AUTISTIC”

AN EVENING OF COMEDY WITH MICHAEL McCREARY

HOLD THE DATE - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2026 

Tickets will be on sale soon at the Orangeville Opera House Box Office.

REMINDER: APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR REED T. COOPER BURSARY

The Reed T. Cooper Bursary is awarded annually to a mid-career artist in the Headwaters Region (Caledon, Dufferin and Erin) who has been working professionally for a minimum of five years, and who displays a unique talent and a potential for excellence.

Past recipient Deb Menken continues to be the artist liaison representing the Cooper family. Deb is happy to answer any questions applicants may have. She can be reached at: Deb Menken

Applications are accepted from June 1 to September 30.

YOU CAN KEEP ARTISTS GROWING!

DAC has been offering the Anne Laurier Scholarship Fund since 1996 and the Reed T. Cooper Bursary since 2007. Both funds have been grown and sustained through the generous support of our donors. You can contribute directly to either fund via CanadaHelps, which issues an automatic tax receipt. 

Never miss an art beat. Click here to become a member of Dufferin Arts Council.

Our Vision

To help build a more diverse and inclusive community in which artists continue

to flourish, excellence is celebrated, and every person in their own way feels inspired

to sing, dance, tell stories and create.