World Gospel Jam 2006

-And lastly, there's an added element with the involvement of local community organizations and cultural groups this year?

Papa San

We've not only diversified the performers on stage but also created an avenue to give more exposure to cultural associations and smaller organizations even in the religious community so that they can be a part of this event. We want to make Bluesfest more representative of the people in this city, their cultural background, ethnic origin etc. Organizations like the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, the Jamaica (Ottawa) Community Association, the African Diaspora community Cooperative, community radio stations like CHUO 89.1FM and CKCU 93.1FM, Gospelcity.com, BlackOttawa411.com, The Spectrum, religious bookstores, this will be the first time that groups like these can actually market themselves to the rest of the city of Ottawa at such a large venue. We're excited about this new initiative and we're really hoping for a great turnout!

For more information on the 2006 Cisco Systems Bluesfest, see www.ottawabluesfest.ca or visit www.urbanartsinstitution.org.