100 Mile Arts Network lands award-winning comedian as project manager

Two years after launching the 100 Mile Arts Network, a project aimed at bringing more exposure to artists in Western Quebec, Theatre Wakefield announced the hiring of award-winning comedian and podcast host Julien Dionne as project manager.

According to a press release issued by Theatre Wakefield on June 6, the organization has been looking into other ways of providing art for the community because of the pandemic – notably by streaming and recording digitally. Boasting a wide range of experiences working with online production and presentation platforms, the 100 Mile Arts Network noted that Dionne will be an invaluable asset in regard to online content and social media presence.

Native of Scoudouc, N.B., Dionne is best known for his humour on CBC and SiriusXM Radio, as well as his hour-long podcast The Julien Dionne Comedy Hour, which streams on Tuesdays and Fridays via iTunes.

With already two comedy specials under his belt – Too Soon in 2012 and Beginnings in 2014 – Dionne recently recorded his third special Way Better Live, which will be available on Netflix in November. Bringing plenty of leadership qualities to the table, Theatre Wakefield’s Board Chair Andrea Rowe raved about the organization’s new hiring, feeling very positive about what’s to come. “He’s talented,” Rowe said. “He’s positive. He’s a remarkable communicator and on top of all that, he’s a creative thinker and a leader. I feel very confident about where we’re heading with Julien leading 100 Mile Arts Network as part of our team.” The 100 Mile Arts Network is supported in large part by the Municipality of La Pêche and the Department of Canadian Heritage.