NIPD Highlights - Meet our Performers

National Indigenous People's Day is coming up and our office is preparing for our annual fish fry event Somba K'e Civic Plaza! We have some exciting performers this year!

Edmonton Métis dancers

Over the years, the dancers have promoted traditional Métis dances, celebrating the cultural heritage of their mixed ancestry (French, Scottish, Irish, and First Nations). Some of these traditional dances include the Duck Dance, Reel of Eight, Drops of Brandy, Reel of Four, and the Red River Jig. They also learned first changes and breakdowns, with square dances described by a square dance caller. The group has also mastered show dances that highlight their stepping abilities, such as the Orange Blossom Special, Broom Dance, Sash Dance, and Cotton Eyed Joe.

Today, the group consists of four generations of the Donald family, including the grandfather, sons, daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

DerRic Starlight PR 

Jarrid Lee is a Plains Cree country-rock artist based in Edmonton, Alberta. Blending the heartfelt storytelling of Shane Yellowbird, the soulful melodies of Don Amero, and the authentic energy of The Road Hammers, his music resonates with listeners seeking genuine, roots-driven sound. Influenced by the raw spirit of ’90s country and recorded with live instruments, Jarrid's songs capture the warmth of gatherings around a campfire or kitchen table, reflecting his deep heritage across Treaty 6 territory. His debut EP, Up on Stage, earned multiple nominations from the Saskatchewan Country Music Association and SaskMusic, topping charts on Sirius XM 165 The Indigiverse and the Canadian Indie Country Countdown. His second album, It's Time, expanded his international reach with the single "Let's Get Gone" hitting #8 on the Top 40 IMC. Jarrid's latest single, "Too Good To Be True," out November 15, 2024, is the first from his upcoming album Give It All Back. The song will premiere exclusively on LIVE IN LIMBO, a Toronto-based online platform. Beyond music, Jarrid is a cultural ambassador, with his song "It's Time" featured in presentations to the United Nations, symbolizing hope and resilience.

For more information, visit www.JarridLee.com and follow him on social media for the latest updates from the artist himself.