CELEBRATION STAGE

Saturday, June 21st  Sunday, June 22nd
Catch the action at the Celebration Stage—live music, world-class hoop dancing, Métis jigging, Inuit throat singing, and more cultural showcases!

Saturday, June 21st - National Indigenous Peoples Day

The Pow Wow Workout is a 45-minute high-intensity fitness class that blends powwow dance steps with traditional and contemporary powwow music in a fun, follow-along format. Led by Amanda Fox, an Ojibwe dancer from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, the session weaves in cultural teachings, history, and storytelling. Amanda’s distinctive fitness experience empowers participants with Indigenous knowledge and wellness. Join her to experience the transformative power of Indigenous culture through dance—wear something comfortable and get ready to move!

Siqiniup Qilauta, meaning “the sun’s drum,” is an Ottawa-based musical group named after a traditional Inuit legend symbolizing good luck. The group showcases traditional and contemporary Inuit throat singing, drum dancing, and games, and offers interactive workshops on Inuit history and modern realities. Performing nationally and internationally, they celebrate the strength and resilience of Inuit culture, highlighting its rapid evolution from igloo to iPod while fostering cultural pride, education, and connection through performance and storytelling.

Brad Lafortune, a proud Métis from Sudbury, Ontario, is a physiotherapist in Ottawa who shares his culture through Métis jigging workshops and performances, including with MASC’s Artists in the Classroom. He uses jigging as a dynamic, engaging way for all ages to learn about Métis culture. Through dance, Brad shares how being Métis is more than mixed ancestry—it’s a celebration of customs, traditions, and a unique identity shaped by the blending of two distinct cultures.

Rabbit and Bear Paws present comical, educational, and interactive puppet shows for all ages. On Saturday, join them for Rabbit and Bear Paws: The Way, a lively retelling of the creation story of Turtle Island. Through engaging puppetry, audiences will discover how the Turtle carries the world on her back and how the determined muskrat offers the greatest gift of all—a place to call home. This heartwarming performance brings Indigenous teachings to life in a fun, accessible way.

Witness the incredible talent of 2023 Heard Museum Hoop Dance Adult World Champion, Scott Sinquah. Rooted in healing ceremonies and cultural traditions, hoop dance is a powerful art form shared by many Indigenous communities. Today, it is performed across the U.S. and Canada as a dynamic expression of identity and celebration. Scott brings this rich tradition to life with breathtaking skill, honoring the past while inspiring audiences through the beauty and meaning of hoop dance.

Chanelle Munroe, the world’s only professional female Métis magician, blends storytelling and illusion to celebrate Indigenous culture. A trailblazer in a male-dominated industry, she empowers audiences—especially young girls—through performances that inspire pride in Indigeneity. Chanelle has headlined Magic Immersive Chicago, set a record for most bullet catches by a female magician, and appeared on Fox News. She’s been featured on the covers of Vanish Magazine and SAY Magazine, and loves sharing her magic with Indigenous communities across Turtle Island.

Rabbit and Bear Paws present comical, educational, and interactive puppet shows for all ages. On Saturday, join them for Rabbit and Bear Paws: The Way, a lively retelling of the creation story of Turtle Island. Through engaging puppetry, audiences will discover how the Turtle carries the world on her back and how the determined muskrat offers the greatest gift of all—a place to call home. This heartwarming performance brings Indigenous teachings to life in a fun, accessible way.

Experience a powerful performance on the “Conundrum,” a unique instrument created by visual artist David Hynes, as Janet McCue of Curve Lake First Nation is joined by her family. Originally built for a 2010 exhibit, the Conundrum now appears at major arts and culture events across North America. Janet, a longtime advocate and knowledge keeper, uses her platform to raise awareness for social justice, empower her community, and educate schools and museums about Indigenous culture and history.

Justin Francois is a professional, award-winning Elvis Tribute Artist and a fan favourite across Canada and the U.S. Known for his remarkable resemblance to Elvis Presley and his dynamic performances of the Vegas Years, Justin captivates audiences and consistently earns standing ovations. Humble and dedicated, he brings joy and energy to every show. When not on tour, he’s available for private parties, corporate events, weddings, casinos, and more—always leaving a lasting impression.

Experience a powerful performance on the “Conundrum,” a unique instrument created by visual artist David Hynes, as Janet McCue of Curve Lake First Nation is joined by her family. Originally built for a 2010 exhibit, the Conundrum now appears at major arts and culture events across North America. Janet, a longtime advocate and knowledge keeper, uses her platform to raise awareness for social justice, empower her community, and educate schools and museums about Indigenous culture and history.

Witness the incredible talent of 2023 Heard Museum Hoop Dance Adult World Champion, Scott Sinquah. Rooted in healing ceremonies and cultural traditions, hoop dance is a powerful art form shared by many Indigenous communities. Today, it is performed across the U.S. and Canada as a dynamic expression of identity and celebration. Scott brings this rich tradition to life with breathtaking skill, honoring the past while inspiring audiences through the beauty and meaning of hoop dance.

Winners of the Youth Talent Contest from the Algonquin community of Barrier Lake join us to showcase their incredible talents. These young performers captivated judges and audiences alike with their creativity, passion, and skill. Their participation highlights the vibrant youth culture and artistic spirit within the community. We are proud to welcome them to the stage and celebrate their achievements as they share their voices, stories, and talents with a wider audience.

Brad Lafortune, a proud Métis from Sudbury, Ontario, is a physiotherapist in Ottawa who shares his culture through Métis jigging workshops and performances, including with MASC’s Artists in the Classroom. He uses jigging as a dynamic, engaging way for all ages to learn about Métis culture. Through dance, Brad shares how being Métis is more than mixed ancestry—it’s a celebration of customs, traditions, and a unique identity shaped by the blending of two distinct cultures.

Siqiniup Qilauta, meaning “the sun’s drum,” is an Ottawa-based musical group named after a traditional Inuit legend symbolizing good luck. The group showcases traditional and contemporary Inuit throat singing, drum dancing, and games, and offers interactive workshops on Inuit history and modern realities. Performing nationally and internationally, they celebrate the strength and resilience of Inuit culture, highlighting its rapid evolution from igloo to iPod while fostering cultural pride, education, and connection through performance and storytelling.

Everyone one is invited to an electrifying glow-in-the-dark pow wow dance party featuring Classic Roots, an Ojibwe/Blackfoot DJ, producer, and performer from Long Lake 58 First Nation! Blending techno, house, and traditional Indigenous rhythms, Classic Roots brings a high-energy experience that celebrates culture and community. This inclusive event is open to everyone—no dance experience or regalia needed—so come dance, connect, and celebrate with us. Based in Toronto, Classic Roots has lit up stages at TIFF, imagineNATIVE, Luminato, and beyond, and has earned accolades like Best Pop CD at the Indigenous Music Awards. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of a vibrant celebration!
 

Experience a breathtaking drone show lighting up the night sky, showcasing the Seven Grandfather Teachings. Through stunning visuals and synchronized movement, this performance highlights the core values of Wisdom, Love, Respect, Bravery, Honesty, Humility, and Truth. Each drone formation symbolizes one of these teachings, creating a powerful, immersive display that honors Indigenous culture and wisdom. This captivating show offers a unique way to reflect on the teachings while celebrating unity and connection under the stars.

Sunday, June 22nd

The Pow Wow Workout is a 45-minute high-intensity fitness class that blends powwow dance steps with traditional and contemporary powwow music in a fun, follow-along format. Led by Amanda Fox, an Ojibwe dancer from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, the session weaves in cultural teachings, history, and storytelling. Amanda’s distinctive fitness experience empowers participants with Indigenous knowledge and wellness. Join her to experience the transformative power of Indigenous culture through dance—wear something comfortable and get ready to move!

Siqiniup Qilauta, meaning “the sun’s drum,” is an Ottawa-based musical group named after a traditional Inuit legend symbolizing good luck. The group showcases traditional and contemporary Inuit throat singing, drum dancing, and games, and offers interactive workshops on Inuit history and modern realities. Performing nationally and internationally, they celebrate the strength and resilience of Inuit culture, highlighting its rapid evolution from igloo to iPod while fostering cultural pride, education, and connection through performance and storytelling.

Brad Lafortune, a proud Métis from Sudbury, Ontario, is a physiotherapist in Ottawa who shares his culture through Métis jigging workshops and performances, including with MASC’s Artists in the Classroom. He uses jigging as a dynamic, engaging way for all ages to learn about Métis culture. Through dance, Brad shares how being Métis is more than mixed ancestry—it’s a celebration of customs, traditions, and a unique identity shaped by the blending of two distinct cultures.

Rabbit and Bear Paws present comical, educational, and interactive puppet shows for all ages. On Saturday, join them for Rabbit and Bear Paws: The Way, a lively retelling of the creation story of Turtle Island. Through engaging puppetry, audiences will discover how the Turtle carries the world on her back and how the determined muskrat offers the greatest gift of all—a place to call home. This heartwarming performance brings Indigenous teachings to life in a fun, accessible way.

Witness the incredible talent of 2023 Heard Museum Hoop Dance Adult World Champion, Scott Sinquah. Rooted in healing ceremonies and cultural traditions, hoop dance is a powerful art form shared by many Indigenous communities. Today, it is performed across the U.S. and Canada as a dynamic expression of identity and celebration. Scott brings this rich tradition to life with breathtaking skill, honoring the past while inspiring audiences through the beauty and meaning of hoop dance.

Experience a powerful performance on the “Conundrum,” a unique instrument created by visual artist David Hynes, as Janet McCue of Curve Lake First Nation is joined by her family. Originally built for a 2010 exhibit, the Conundrum now appears at major arts and culture events across North America. Janet, a longtime advocate and knowledge keeper, uses her platform to raise awareness for social justice, empower her community, and educate schools and museums about Indigenous culture and history.

Siqiniup Qilauta, meaning “the sun’s drum,” is an Ottawa-based musical group named after a traditional Inuit legend symbolizing good luck. The group showcases traditional and contemporary Inuit throat singing, drum dancing, and games, and offers interactive workshops on Inuit history and modern realities. Performing nationally and internationally, they celebrate the strength and resilience of Inuit culture, highlighting its rapid evolution from igloo to iPod while fostering cultural pride, education, and connection through performance and storytelling.

Brad Lafortune, a proud Métis from Sudbury, Ontario, is a physiotherapist in Ottawa who shares his culture through Métis jigging workshops and performances, including with MASC’s Artists in the Classroom. He uses jigging as a dynamic, engaging way for all ages to learn about Métis culture. Through dance, Brad shares how being Métis is more than mixed ancestry—it’s a celebration of customs, traditions, and a unique identity shaped by the blending of two distinct cultures.