FOTR Executive Director Receives 2024 Arnold Edinborough Award

Our very own Carly McFadden received the 2024 Arnold Edinborough Award for her contributions to advancing the arts in Canada’s North through her work with Folk On The Rocks.

Established in 2015, the Peter Herrndorf Arts Leadership Award recognizes an arts leader dedicated to fostering the arts in Canada by building partnerships to ensure a vibrant cultural sector. And Carly McFadden has done just that! 

Under her guidance, our festival’s operating budget has tripled, staffing has expanded from two roles to twenty, and over 75 community partnerships and sponsorships have been established. Through strategic planning, McFadden has driven the development and financial stability of Folk On The Rocks. 

With a firm belief that cultural events and activities play essential roles in the development of both an individual and a community, Carly has prioritized removing barriers to entry to foster a culture of inclusion. During her tenure, the festival has implemented safer spaces policies, barrier-free viewing platforms, mobility pathways for those with accessibility needs, and a ticketing program that removes economic barriers to participation.  

“It is leaders like McFadden who promote and advance the development of the arts in the North”, affirms our Board Chair Kayla Cooper and Operations Manager Teresa Horosko. “Through her direction, the festival provides premiere performances of Canadian and International artists to our Northern community and acts as a launching pad for up-and-coming Northern artists.”

Carly, we're so proud of you!