Planet IndigenUS festival August 10-19, 2012 at Harbourfront Centre is almost upon us. It is the largest contemporary international Indigenous cultural festival in the world, and will feature 10 days of theatre and dance, music, food, film and visual arts from Canada and around-the-world.
It only happens every three years, so be sure to take advantage of this event which has close to 300 performers from seven countries. Most of the events are free. I have done a round-up of my take on the MUST SEE events during the festival. There are also a ton of art exhibits, plays, and screenings to take in as well so check their site for what exactly might blow your bubbles. If you’re not in Toronto, there is supposed to be a live web cam of the main stage (Westjet) so you can still take part!
Opening Night, Friday, August 10, 9 – 11 PM (Westjet Stage):
Hosted by Wab Kinew and Sarah Podesmski this has an all-star lineup including Plex (hip-hop), and BC rocker George Leach. Lots of eye and ear candy to feast upon.
Kinnie Starr + Digging Roots, Saturday, August 11, 8 -11 PM (Westjet Stage):
I have been a fan of Kinnie Starr’s since I first heard her tracks back in 2007, but this multi-faceted artist is fantastic to watch live as she gives a unique take on her music each and every single time. Digging Roots is electric, fantastic. They have a blues, folksy vibe but Raven always kick it up a notch with his epic guitar skills. Shoshona will dazzle every person in the crowd. Do. Not. Miss.
A Tribe Called Red, Saturday, August 11, 11 PM – 2 AM (Brigantine Room):
If you haven’t heard the hype about A Tribe Called Red, then you surely haven’t been tuned into Twitter. Their song ‘Electric Pow Wow Drum’ was just selected as Canada’s new anthem song by a CBC Music Poll. Their mix of traditional pow wow music with electronic beats has got everyone hopped up. Recently they were also shortlisted on the Polaris Music Prize. This is a party guaranteed to make you sweat and swagger. Bring it.
Sage Paul Fashion Show, Friday, August 17, 7 – 8 PM (Westjet Stage):
Young fashion designer Sage Paul will be presenting her first wearable art fashion show entitled ‘Synaptic City’.She will be looking to the construction of traditional Pow Wow regalia and the styling of 1970s glamour. After having attended her first and second shows I can say that this collection is sure to not disappoint. And I’ll be hosting the show, so there’s that.
Derek Miller, Friday, August 17, 9 PM - 11 PM (Westjet Stage):
Ravishing rocker Derek Miller will be paying tribute to Robbie Roberston all night. This is a unique take for Miller and a one-time only type of performance.
Photo from Exclaim.ca
Cris Derksen, Saturday, August 18, 6 – 7 PM (Westjet Stage):
Hearing Cris Derksen play her Cello is like a religious experience. Once you’ve heard her play you will never think of the cello in the same way again. It is hip and sexy. She has even played with Kanye West. Come on down y’all.
IsKwe, Saturday, August 18, 8 – 9 PM (Westjet Stage):
Sultry songstress Is Kwe will be laying them down one after another. Her voice and her style are hypnotic and she’ll have you grooving in your seat.
Photo by Neeto
Red Hot Nights, Saturday, August 18, 11 PM – 2 AM (Brigantine Room)
It’s almost too hot to handle. Burlesque dancers Kitsune Soleil and Veronika Swartz (Priscilla Pussycat) have created a special performance that might leave you lusting for more. I will be hosting the evening and doing my best to keep up with these sexy dames.
