Flavours from around the world, lively performances and interactive activities: the eighth Carousel of Nations is promising to be one of the biggest yet.
For a town of less than 8,000, the Revelstoke Multicultural Society estimates they draw a crowd of 1,000 people over the event’s three hours. This year’s Carousel on Feb. 4 from 4–7 p.m., there’s a few changes to work with the growth. New this year is In The Library, a series of talks about Revelstoke’s multicultural history that will coincide with the main event’s action in the Community Centre.
“Normally when you go to the Carousel, there’s a lot going on — it’s noisy, fun and exciting,” coordinator Briana Sadler said. “The feedback we’ve received from some people is that they would like a quieter aspect of it. So we have arranged these amazing speakers to do great 15-minute talks each on various histories and their part.”
There will be plenty to fascinate children as the kids’ area has grown and moved to the seniors centre area. “What we’re doing differently this year is we’re trying to expand and do more of what we already do,” Sadler explained.
What will remain the same is the great line-up of food. Seven vendors are committed including the event’s two success stories — Chinese restaurant Kevin’s Kitchen and Vietnamese Minh Tuyet’s.
Scottish pipe band The Highlanders will once again open the ceremony, followed by an Aboriginal welcome. This year the Revelstoke Multicultural Society has secured a performance from dance group Indigenous Dance Studio. Head dancer Jess McMann, whose 15 years of experience is grounded in the traditional teachings of Blackfoot and Cree culture, will perform a skilled hoop dance among others.
Marty Carter, who specializes in flute and saxophone will follow. He has performed for the last 30 years across Western Canada, including at Shambhala Music Festival, and has been featured in a TED talk. “We brought him in to give an interesting dynamic to the performances,” Sadler said.
Local musicians Denis Severino and Myra will again perform their unique style of Appalachian music. Ensure you come to the Carousel of Nations with an empty stomach and an open attitude to stimulate your sense with all that is on offer.
Event details: Saturday, Feb. 4, 4–7 p.m. Revelstoke Community Centre, 600 Campbell Avenue. Buy $3 food sampler tickets at the door. Bring your own water bottle and plateware to reduce waste. Cutlery included in admission.
Attend a workshop with Indigenous Dance Studio’s Jess McMann on Sunday Feb. 5, 2–5 p.m. Free for ages 6 and up, limit of 30 people. Sign up at the Carousel event.
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