Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture
One-of-a-Kind
Indigenous feet have been dancing on the land for generations. A way to honour Indigenous culture and spirituality, dance is a vital part of tradition, connection and social structure within communities.
In Atlantic Canada, while there are increasing opportunities for youth to learn traditional Indigenous dances, those seeking contemporary dance instruction from Indigenous teachers in jazz, hip-hop or tap are out of luck.
Atlantic Ballet is bringing a unique offering to youth in the Maritimes through the new Indigenous-led Mawi’amalgatijig / Mawokahtine program. This two-year intercultural Indigenous dance program will be available for grade 11 and 12 students in their own communities. This program will establish an accessible path for Indigenous dancers to pursue professional dance careers in contemporary Indigenous dance, ballet, contemporary dance, character dance and the history of dance and storytelling.
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is contributing funding to help run the program for two years starting in September 2025. Mawi’amalgatijig / Mawokahtine will offer high school credits with graduating cohorts receiving a diploma in dance. Students will gain the necessary skills, support and connections needed to build successful careers in dance. They will also have access to on-site personal academic tutors, one-on-one faculty and instructor support, Elders, counselling, physiotherapy and fun activities outside of classes.
Mawi’amalgatijig / Mawokahtine is truly one-of-a-kind. Combining Indigenous traditional dance with contemporary ballet, it creates a unique fusion that honors cultural heritage while embracing new forms of artistic expression. This merged approach will guide young Indigenous Peoples to express themselves in healthy ways, and to heal and reclaim their identity through movement, bridging past and present in a transformative way.
Diocese of Saint John
