A Tribe Called Red will kick off Canada’s representation at Cervantino, one of the continent’s largest cultural festivals.
Canada is one of two Guests of Honour at the 47th festival which is held in the Central Mexican city of Guanajuato. The festival will take place this fall from Oct. 9 to Oct. 27.
The Canadian contingent will feature 17 stage shows presented by Canadian artists, nine youth and Indigenous themed films and three weeks of visual, literary and performing arts programming at festival’s Canada House.
The theme of Cervantino 2019 is a fitting one for these times. It is focused on the idea of migration and comes as thousands of Central Americans are leaving their homes, heading to the U.S. and beyond.
The Canadian shows will present shows connected to the theme of migrations, organizers said in a media release.
In the 2018 festival, some 34 nations were represented.
Canada has been a guest of honour before in 2002. Quebec was so honoured in 2009.
The Canada Council is the lead agency representing this country at the festival.
Council CEO Simon Brault told a media conference that “In Canada, we’re deeply inspired by immigration — Canada was formed through immigration. We truly understand what it means to migrate from one place to another, and as far as culture is concerned, we clearly perceive movements and fusions between different styles.”
The Canadian artists attending Cervantino include:
A Tribe Called Red with Lido Pimienta
Going Home Star by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet
When It Rains 2b Theatre of Halifax
Minowin by Dancers of Damelahamid
Dis-Connect by ILL-Abilities™ Crew
Who we are in the dark by Peggy Baker Dance Projects
Mr. Shi and His Lover Macau Experimental Theatre
Kiinalik: These Sharp Tools Buddies in Bad Times Theatre and Laakkuluk Williamson Bathory
