This just in .. head on down to Richmond for a unique experience – quoting Kate Rogers from @canadasnorth

This is a rare opportunity that I wanted to bring your attention to. It is all week, with the exception of the Darkness to Light celebration.

From the numbers I’m seeing, we will have over 140 northern artists and performers at the O Zone and Gateway Theatre today. They represent all three territories. You can meet the artists and have them demonstrate their work. It is a spacious, easy to access location for everyone.

Please, let me know if you would like more details or an on-site contact to talk about the artisans and displays. Although the performance “Darkness to Light” is one night only (tonight) the other cultural displays are every day from today through February 28th.

Cheers,
Kate

Visions of the North – Artisans Market
Main Stage Area (Tent)
Feb. 23 – 28, 2010
3 – 11 p.m. weekdays: 12 – 11 p.m. on weekends
Learn more about the unique art and culture of Canada’s three northern territories in a special artisans market presented by the Pan Northern First Nations Council and Yukon Arts Centre. Carvers of bone, soapstone and wood, sewers, print makers – an extraordinary collection of artists have come together in one spot to demonstrate their skill and talent. Over 65 artists work is also on display.

From Darkness to Light – Canada’s North
Main Stage
February 23rd – One time only performance
3 – 6:30 p.m.
Experience the best that Canada’s North has to offer through an eclectic mix of performances from Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut that showcase traditional and contemporary art forms. Discover the landscapes, people and culture of the North through live music, storytelling, song, dance, video and performance. Canada’s northern territories invite you to join in a celebration of the vibrancy and beauty that is Canada’s North. With over 120 performers in this one-time, colourful, powerful series of performances, no one will be sitting still. The amazing ‘you -have – to – see – it – to – believe – it’ Blanket Toss and northern drumming will be performed.

Sewing our Traditions: Dolls of Canada’s North” Exhibition
Gateway Theatre, 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond
12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
The Pan-Northern Doll Exhibit is a collection of hand-made dolls created by Inuit, Métis, and First Nations from Northern Canada. The dolls represent the historical and contemporary perspective Northern fashion, culture, and sport.

Sewing our Traditions: Dolls of Canada’s North – Private Reception (All media welcomed)
Gateway Theatre, 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond
7:30p.m. – 9 p.m.
Presentations and performances by Inuvialuit Drummers and Dancers, Inuit throat singers and Rising Sun Singers.

NOTE: Media can gain access to the O-Zone site by displaying credentials at the security gate on the West side of the O Zone (Gilbert Rd.). Head towards the tennis club and turn right. Enter the restricted area and head towards the security/gate.