The Whitehorse 2007 Canada Winter Games has named Whitehorse’s DNA Productions as the co-producers of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. David Petkovich and Kristina Mercs have teamed up with Patrick Roberge of Vancouver’s Creative Sport Productions to produce a ceremony worthy of national attention.

 

“We are extremely excited about this partnership,” said Joan Stanton, the Chair for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies Committee.  “Pairing Patrick‘s wealth of large-scale project experience with the northern sensibilities and expertise that David and Kristina deliver will ensure that the ceremonies’ production captures the spirit of the North.”

DNA Productions brings valuable local experience to the ceremonies, having been involved in numerous culture industry projects across the North including film, multi-media presentations and live music events. Roberge boasts an impressive array of experience including opening and closing ceremonies from past Canada Games as well as the recent Vancouver 2010 Olympic emblem launch. (For more detailed project experience for both production companies, see attached.)

“We are excited and honoured to be a part of one of the largest events ever to take place North of 60,” said Petkovich. “We look forward to showcasing the Yukon at the Games and we look forward to working with someone as experienced as Patrick.”

The opening and closing ceremonies is traditionally a showcase for the Games and the Host region. The 2007 ceremonies will be broadcast on CBC News World with highlights on their main networks.  The opening ceremony will be February 23 and the closing ceremonies will end the Games on March 10. Both ceremonies will be held in a large temporary structure on the Whitehorse waterfront.

An open call for ceremonies performers is planned for the fall of 2006.