Woodland weekend slated for May 30 and 31

Observer Staff

5/14/2003 12:00:00 AM

The Fourth Annual Woodland Spirits Native American Arts & Music Weekend is slated for May 30 and 31 at the Soaring Eagle Entertainment Hall.

"The event originated three years ago to provide patrons with the opportunity to learn more about our cultural heritage and way of life," said Promotions Manager Raul Venegas. "We are able to provide firsthand education through arts, crafts and live entertainment."

Comedian Don Burn-stick-a Cree from the Alexander First Nation outside of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada-will kickoff weekend performances on May 30 from 8 to 9 p.m.

Burnstick utilizes a humorous and holistic approach to healing through his message of leaving a better world for future generations.

His highly acclaimed comedy show, "You Might be a Redskin-Healing Through Native Humour," portrays First Nations people, their habits, likes and dislikes.

"After all that we have gone through, we've never lost our sense of humor and it's time to share that. This is the spirit of healing and the essence of my performance," Burnstick posted on his webpage.

Native blues performer Jimmy Wolf will provide an evening show on May 31 from 8 to 9 p.m.

Wolf has been nominated for various Blues Artists awards throughout the year and has opened for many well known bands. His 2002 release, "Mohawk Stomp," included songs "Monkey Paw," "Wasp Woman," "Sex Star," and "Tiger Man."

The Art Gallery will be open on May 30 from 4 to 10 p.m. and again on May 31 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Indian tacos, frybread and a variety of other foods will be available.

Grand Entry for a mini powwow, "Pride of Our People," is scheduled for 1 p.m. with performances through 5 p.m. on May 31.

Dancers are needed and artist booths, which are limited, are available. For more information, contact Venegas by May 16 at (989) 775-5282.