Wu Woom means to sing in ayajuthem, and that's what the 14th annual Wu Woom Festival is all about, according to organizer and spirit singer Cyndi Pallen.
"I love to sing, and there's not much to do in Powell River, so I started this festival," said Pallen. "Our goal was to celebrate cultural diversity within the Powell River community through songs, dance and food."
The multicultural showcase and yearly fundraiser is open to the greater qathet community and Tla’amin members, said Pallen, and will take place at Tla'amin Salish Centre gym, April 19, with doors opening at 5:30 pm.
Pallen said organizers have invited Scottish pipers, Zumba dancers, a Danish singer and a couple of choirs from town, but are open to having other artists who wish to share their cultural background through songs or traditional dance, or simply play an instrument.
"The evening will begin with our Tla’amin drummers and singers," said Pallen. "Spirit singers will also be sharing traditional songs of Tla'amin people. We will also have songs from Lillooet and Squamish singers who are joining us for this special evening."
Pallen said over the years they have invited friends and family from all different backgrounds to come and sing, including an artist from Vietnam who performed at last year's festival.
"We have three French singers, we have someone from Africa coming to perform and musicians from Korea," said Pallen.
Mara Park is one of the musicians from Korea, and a Wu Woom Festival volunteer.
"We will play a variety of music," said Park. "One dance song, a kind of a tango, on cello, violin and viola."
Pallen is inviting people to bring something from their culture, whether it's a song or to share their food.
"We'll be selling Indian tacos in the kitchen and bannock dogs," said Pallen. "We are happy to say, this evening will be filled with performers from all walks of life sharing musical acts, songs and dance, from their cultural background."
To purchase a ticket ahead of time contact Cyndi Pallen at 604. 414.3874. Tickets will also be available at the door.
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