Kevin Locke: Writing the Future Together through Traditional Dance

Diversity, culture, beauty and tradition come together in a powerful performance by world-renowned First Nations artist Kevin Locke, who will be appearing on May 13 at the Brilliant Cultural Centre in Castlegar.

Locke brings the history and culture of aboriginal people to life by communicating lessons, stories and legends through traditional dance, music, language and movement.

A pulsating drum beat is said to set the stage for Locke's dynamic Hoop Dance -- a tradition among the Plains Indians that is symbolic of rebirth and connectivity, where all things intertwine and exist within a sphere.

Locke is also an expert in the art of the indigenous flute, which represents the essence of the wind.

Despite the deep connection to First Nations heritage, Locke is quick to point out that neither his performance nor his message is culture- or tribe-specific. He says it is about the nobility and oneness of the human spirit -- something from which a person of any age, culture or background can draw inspiration.

"It is about our universal human values," he said. "This is the first time in human history that we (the people of the world) are looking at the reality of writing the future together. Our current reality is that we all have to draw from our collective heritage, and we are all co-heirs to the collective human experience."

A former elementary school teacher turned full-time performer, Locke has traveled to more than 80 countries, spreading his passion for universal spirit and his vision of balance, joy and diversity.

He has published 12 albums of both music and stories, which have helped to ensure the spirit of his message is passed along to younger generations. When asked what his favourite part of his work was, Locke replied, "Work? What work?

"What I do is not a job for me in the traditional sense," he explained. "If I was going to retire and do the one thing I wanted to do most in the world, I would still do exactly what I am doing now."

Joining Locke in Castlegar is Doug (Foote) Good Feather -- a champion fancy dancer and master First Nations singer.

Kevin Locke is presented by Mir Centre for Peace at Selkirk College. Tickets for this colourful and educational event are $15 and can be purchased at any Selkirk College campus or at Otter's Books in Nelson. Show time is at 7 p.m.

First published on April 22, 2008