The arts community is gearing up for this year’s Wood Buffalo Excellence in Arts Awards gala.

The Buffys will feature the theme ‘Midnight at the Moulin Rouge’, and for the first time, the Arts Council of Wood Buffalo is bringing in a new Artistic Director to design the evening.

Nils Hognestad, the Buffys first ever external Artistic Director, hopes to transport guests into the heart of Paris for an evening of romance, love, lights, and fashion.

“My vision for Midnight at the Moulin Rouge is to create a spectacular Spectacular – a feast for the senses,” says Hognestad.

“There’ll be something for aristocrats and bohemians alike!”

The Buffy Awards recognize and celebrate excellence in various areas of the arts.

Since 2016, the awards showcase has invested in the future of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo’s growing arts community by supporting exceptional artists through appreciation, employment opportunities, and by connecting artists to the wider community.

“From the Arts Admins and Teachers that empower and inspire, to the Artists that are recognized, and to those that make the event come to life, the Buffys provide a great opportunity to learn about and connect with the diverse creatives in our region,” says ACWB Executive Director Liana Wheeldon.

The Buffys are scheduled for October 21st at the Suncor Energy Centre for the Performing Arts. Tickets for the night are available online.