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live performances scheduled

Alberta Métis Fest going ahead with virtual celebration June 13

Jun 3, 2020 | 1:35 PM

Edmonton – The Métis Nation of Alberta’s hugely popular Alberta Métis Fest will go ahead this year, virtually. On June 13th, Alberta Métis Fest will stream live, connecting viewers from all over Alberta, Canada and the world with Métis culture and supporting Métis performers and artisans who may currently be struggling financially due to COVID-19.

“Our shared culture is something we are proud to celebrate, and the vibrance of our culture, from music, to dance, to singing, is something we will showcase at our second annual Alberta Métis Fest,” said Audrey Poitras, President of the MNA. “Even in a global pandemic, it is important to find moments of joy and celebrate the diversity of Canada’s and Alberta’s populations.”

Like last year, the MNA will showcase Métis talent from each of the six MNA regions. The streaming event will broadcast from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. MDT, with each region showcasing five performers from their respective areas.

“We have such an incredible pool of talent throughout Alberta, across all ages and backgrounds, and this is our way of acknowledging and supporting these brilliant artists in a difficult time,” said Poitras. “We hope that people from all walks of life will tune in and celebrate with us.”

Performances will include jigging, fiddling, singing, spoons, guitar and more. All performers will receive payment for their participation to help support them while pandemic restrictions continue to affect their livelihoods.

For more information and viewing details, visit albertametis.com/alberta-metis-fest-2020/.

About the MNA

Since its inception in 1928, the MNA promotes and facilitates the advancement of Métis people in Alberta through self-reliance, self-determination and self-management. The MNA is governed by a Provincial Council, comprised of a Provincial President and Vice President and six regional Presidents and Vice Presidents, all democratically elected. In June 2019, the Métis Nation of Alberta and the Government of Canada signed the MNA-Canada Métis Government Recognition and Self-Government Agreement.