Jiggers and fiddlers galore will rock Servus Credit Union Place this week as Poundmaker's Lodge holds its second-ever Métis festival.
Dancers, musicians and guests from across Canada are expected to come to St. Albert this Friday for the second annual Métis Spring Festival, organized by Poundmaker's. They'll spend three days square-dancing, jigging, and fiddling as they share the Métis way and compete for $35,000 worth of prizes.
Last year's festival jammed the Kinsmen Banquet Centre with some 350 people, including renowned fiddlers John Arcand and Calvin Vollrath. Organizers say they're expecting even bigger crowds this year.
The festival is one of three events that Poundmaker's hopes will get people in touch with their native roots, said Donald Langford. This summer's powwow will focus on First Nations' culture, while a similar event this fall will feature the Inuit.
"We have so many aboriginal people who really don't know a lot about their heritage," he said, a situation that causes many to struggle through life. "The Métis festival is our way of healing."
Old time music
Song and dance are integral parts of Métis culture, according to board member Thelma Chalifoux.
"The Red River Jig of the Métis is really truly Canada's first folk dance," she notes, as it combines native, Scottish and Irish steps. Along with the dance came the fiddle — the instrument of choice for the Métis on the go. "The music is totally unique," she said, noting how many Europeans have trouble playing it due to its different beat.
Langford said he remembers growing up at his grandpa's house as relatives smoked, drank, danced and fiddled in the family room. "It was a fun way for people to get together," he said.
Anyone looking to get in on the fun should try to be at Servus Place at about 8 p.m. on Friday for the opening ceremonies, Langford said, where last year's champions will put on a show. Aboriginal craftsmen and musicians will also be there peddling their wares. Competitions start Saturday at 1 p.m.
The only real way to understand another culture is to share it, Langford said. "We have to teach our culture to our children and to the community." By doing so, he hopes to show how the Métis are not so different from everyone else. "We may celebrate our culture and spirituality a little bit differently, but we all answer to the same creator."
Tickets are $5. For full details, call Florence Gaucher at 780-452-6100 extension 227.
