Werklund Centre Hosts Free Events for National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

The Werklund Centre, previously known as Arts Commons, is set to host a series of free events in Calgary on September 30, 2023, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. According to Alex Sarian, the president and CEO of the centre, the venue is ideally suited for celebrating cultural diversity and engaging with Indigenous communities.

Sarian emphasized the importance of the day, stating, “As Werklund Centre, we gather people to engage in cultural celebrations. We thought, ‘How can we miss the opportunity to do that on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, with a lot of our friends and Indigenous partners?’”

This year, the arts hub located on Stephen Avenue will be filled with various events aimed at honoring Indigenous cultures. The lineup includes an Indigenous maker’s market hosted by Authentically Indigenous, a lunchtime powwow showcase, and an afternoon and evening dedicated to art, theatre, and storytelling.

Showcasing Indigenous Talent and Culture

The events will highlight the work of 22 Indigenous artists under the age of 30, who are exploring connections between arts and science, as well as Western and Indigenous cultures. Sarian stated, “We’re showcasing the work of 22 Indigenous artists who are exploring the parallels between arts and science, Western culture and Indigenous culture.”

A significant feature of the day will be an immersive performance titled Echoes of the Land, developed in collaboration with Ghost River Theatre. This performance is intended to deepen the audience’s understanding of Indigenous narratives and experiences.

The day will culminate in a moving presentation of the Elder Story Project at the Jack Singer Concert Hall. Sarian explained that this project has evolved significantly since its inception three years ago. “We started three years ago as an opportunity to work with elders and other partners that wanted to elevate the stories of residential school survivors,” he said.

This year, the Elder Story Project will include a naming ceremony and a tea dance, showcasing the growth and development of the project over the years. “Elders want to share more about their cultures and experience. For folks that have been before, you will certainly have that same experience, but you will also notice that growth over the last few years,” Sarian added.

The Werklund Centre invites the community to participate in these events, fostering a greater understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures. For more information on the schedule and activities, visit the Werklund Centre’s official website.

With the focus on reconciliation and cultural celebration, the events promise to be both educational and enriching for all attendees.