Celebrating the opening of the Lheidli T'enneh Memorial Park's pavilion, which was created in partnership between the Lheidli T'enneh First Nation and the City of Prince George, guests were invited to enjoy drumming and song, storytelling and professional theatre from Friday to Sunday.
The Khast'an Drummers, including Ann Bozoki, Loretta Adams and Margo Parkes, were on hand to offer a song of welcome to those in the park Saturday and talk about the etiquette or protocols to respect those who own a drum.
Bozoki talked about never touching someone else's drum without permission, while Adams talked about how important a drum was to the First Nations culture. She remembers her grandmother told her to always treat her drum as she would a baby. Never beat the drum hard, just a little tap is all that is required. When the drum is not being used, Adams told the small audience that it's always wrapped in a blanket to keep it safe - just like a baby.
Lynette La Fontaine told the story of her beading work that means so much to her and honours her Metis heritage. La Fontaine wore a cumberbund she hand-beaded that illustrates the story of her ancestors. The beadwork is of several different flowers including wild rose, paint brush and fireweed as well as huckleberry blossoms. After La Fontaine shared her story with the crowd, she invited people to join her to see some of her work up close and offered paper and pencil so participants could try their hand at drawing out a pattern for their beadwork.
"I don't have enough time to show you how to bead, but this will get you started," she said to the 20 or so people gathered round her in front of the Pavilion.
Next on the schedule was the presentation of Blue Beads and Blueberries, a 45-minute Canadian play that tells the story of how a princess used her wits, creativity and boldness to overcome challenges.
Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. there will be a celebration to honour Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, presented by Le Cercle des Canadiens Francais de Prince George and the Metis Community Association.
Activities for all ages include a bouncy castle, face painting, games and crafts as well as a lively performance by Franco-Canadian folkband Folkofolie from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
