Consider role of art in the shaping of cities

In June 2006, delegates from around the world will be in Vancouver for the United Nations' World Urban Forum to discuss the future of the world's cities and urban environments, and the role of art, culture, music and dance in shaping and defining our cities and our urban experiences will be at the centre of the discussion.

Earth: The World Urban Festival is the UNESCO-designated official arts and culture festival of the World Urban Forum.

From June 21 to 25, the World Urban Festival will bring artists from around the globe to Vancouver to share their stories and experiences, and help build awareness of the role of art in creating livable, sustainable and vibrant cities.

The World Urban Festival will transform an industrial site at the Great Northern Way campus into a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of international theatre, dance, music and visual arts. There will be entertainment, performances, hands-on activities, exhibitions, food, late-night events, street theatre and a marketplace.

Access to the festival site is free and tickets for events in the big tents can be purchased at the Festival Box Office.

For more information about the forum or the festival, go to the Web site at www.worldurbanfestival.com .