THE City of Surrey has launched a call for submissions for its new “Play Surrey” contest offering local talent a chance to perform on the Maple Leaf Stage, presented by Tim Hortons, at Surrey Canada Day on July 1 and Surrey Fusion Festival on July 21.

“We are excited to support and celebrate local musicians at two of our largest civic events,” said Mayor Linda Hepner. “This will allow attendees to experience the best of Surrey and the Lower Mainland’s homegrown musical talent right in their backyard.”

Entries, which must include a performance video, can be submitted until May 27 on either the Surrey Canada Day website (www.surrey.ca/canadaday/play-surrey) or Surrey Fusion Festival website (www.surreyfusionfestival.ca/play-surrey).

The City of Surrey Special Events Committee will select six finalist videos, which will be posted to the Surrey Canada Day and Fusion Festival Facebook pages. The public will then be asked to vote by “liking” their favourite entries. Two bands—one for each event—with the most votes by June 6 will win. Winners will receive a performance time slot at the event of their choice, plus a $200 honorarium and $100 Tim Hortons gift card.

“The City of Surrey continually looks for ways to expand art and cultural appreciation in our residents’ everyday experiences,” said Surrey Councillor Judy Villeneuve, who chairs the Culture Development Advisory Committee. “The Play Surrey contest is an exciting way to support cultural activity in Surrey while showcasing some amazing local talent.”

For more information, visit surrey.ca.