V’Ni Dansi brings Métis dance and music to the stage for Louis Riel Day

by Sara Harowitz on October 27th, 2023 at 2:05 AM

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“We may fail,” Louis Riel once said. “But the rights for which we contend will not die.”

Founder of the province of Manitoba; political leader of the Métis people; key organizer of the Red River Resistance and the North-West Resistance—Riel, who died on November 16, 1885, has become an icon for his tireless work to fight for Indigenous rights.

In honour of one of the most important figures in this country’s history, Vancouver-based traditional Métis and contemporary dance company V’Ni Dansi is taking to the Annex theatre stage for its 18th annual Louis Riel Day Celebration.

Photo courtesy of V’Ni Dansi.

Combining traditional Métis jigging, contemporary Métis jigging, and contemporary dance, V’Ni Dansi’s mission is to celebrate all aspects of Métis artistic culture and history. While Louis Riel Day officially takes place on November 16, V’Ni Dansi’s show is happening on November 11; in an evening of movement and music, the company’s dancers will be joined by celebrated fiddler Mark Morisseau and accomplished singer Debbie Houle.

Activism can take many forms. Supporting an Indigenous company—and bearing witness to its work—is a great way to show where you stand.