“I think it’s awesome how many people are involved in some aspect of the arts and how diverse the arts scene here is. After years of limited exposure due to the pandemic I believe people will want to celebrate these talents.”

Donna Wootton

Donna volunteers on the NFOTA Communications/Marketing Committee.

Who are you?

I am a retired teacher, a widow, a writer, a dancer, and a resident of Cobourg where I moved from Port Hope during the pandemic.  

Why do you believe in the Northumberland Festival of the Arts?

NFOTA is an ambitious undertaking that aims to put a spotlight on the diversity of the arts in the county. I think it’s awesome how many people are involved in some aspect of the arts and how diverse the arts scene here is. After years of limited exposure due to the pandemic I believe people will want to celebrate these talents.

Any passions and talents you want to share?

I took a writers’ course before retiring early from teaching in 2004. My goal was to write, which I’ve done, although I’m still not very disciplined in my practice. My real passion is dance and movement. During the pandemic I’ve been able to zoom with others around the world in my amateur dance group and with a local teacher of Essentrics. I was also introduced to NIA a few years ago, and we’ve practiced outside when the weather cooperates. I enjoy the out-of-doors, and Northumberland has great trails for hiking and skiing (my very favourite outdoor activity).

What are your roots or groups – connections in the community?

My roots here go back to high school in Port Hope where my family moved in the 1960s. When I returned to that town I became involved in the local NGO in Cobourg, Horizons of Friendship, as a volunteer for Writers & Friends, which I did for 14 years. I also became a member of Spirit of the Hills when they started the writers’ group.

What does “art” mean to you?

Art means expression whether in dance, drama, music, painting or writing. Northumberland is a place where artists can freely give expression to their creativity.

Northumberland Festival of the Arts will take place across Northumberland County from September 16 – October 2, 2022.

Northumberland Festival of the Arts is a volunteer-run not-for-profit arts organization.

To volunteer for NFOTA, please contact info@festivalofthearts.ca

To help support our events, please send your donation by Interac to fundraising@festivalofthearts.ca