The grand march entrance for the 29th annual Powwow hosted by the Iniskim Center at Mount Royal University in Calgary, AB. (Gavin Craig, CMRU.ca)
At the Powwow
The MRU annual Powwow features dancing, drumming and a complimentary feast for all guests. Held on Nov. 1, the event is hosted by the Iniskim Center at Mount Royal University in Wyckham House. Attendees have the chance to experience Indigenous culture up close, from traditional clothing to performances by local Indigenous dancers. Local vendors sell handmade Indigenous beadwork and jewelry throughout the venue. There is also a kids’ corner, hosted by the Bachelor of Child Studies society, where children can play games or do crafts. The Powwow included dance competitions for all ages, from children as young as three to adults over 60. The skill and energy of every dancer were impressive, and it was clear how much effort they put into their performances. “My favorite part is the tiny tots. Seeing the 3- to 5-year-olds dance in their outfits and just have fun on the floor is so heartwarming,” said Melanie Parsons, another event organizer. Different teams of drummers took turns playing throughout the night, each showcasing unique techniques and adding to the energetic atmosphere.
The Powwow is for everyone
“I want more faculty, staff and students to come and experience the Powwow,” said Cory Cardinal, one of the organizers, highlighting the event’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The Powwow is open to everyone, Indigenous or not, and gives attendees a chance to learn about and celebrate Indigenous culture through music, dance and community. Whether you are attending to watch the performances, try traditional foods or explore the vendors’ handmade crafts, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
My favorite things from the powwow
- The traditional drumming
- The variety of dances
- The free stew and Bannock
- The funny MC
- Buying Christmas presents from the vendors
Project reflection
Looking back at this project, this was a beneficial experience for not only the Iniskim Center but also for myself as well. I think the advertisement video for their annual Powwow really highlights all the best parts of the event and captures the energy and excitement that make it so special. I believe this video will help create interest from people who may not have known what to expect from a Powwow before seeing it, and it gives the Iniskim Center a useful way to promote the event to a wider audience in the future. It also provides them with a piece of content they can use year after year for social media. For me, it was definitely valuable to gain experience recording a live event, and it kept me engaged the whole time as I had to constantly look for interesting shots. It was chaotic at times with so many people and so many different things happening, but this project helped me reinforce the skills I need to stay focused, not get overwhelmed, and keep working so I can capture everything I need. Overall, this project gave the Iniskim Center a strong promotional tool and gave me the chance to grow my confidence in filming live events, showing me how important it is to stay adaptable, patient and trusting of my instincts behind the camera.
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