MAINSTAGE
PERFORMANCES
FO R A L L AG E S
Nomadic Massive, Mariachi Ghost,
Reeny Smith, Gypsophilia,
Global Savages, Asia & NuGruv
more!
AUG 19-23
ALDERNEY LANDING
WELCOME TO
MODERN LUXURY LIVING
FROM $259,900
Located in the heart of downtown Dartmouth with gorgeous views of Halifax
harbour, The Avery is a modern state-of-the-art luxury condo development. From
inception through its thoughtful design, this landmark development reflects our
vision for the future of this downtown urban community.
The Avery proudly supports the Prismatic Arts Festival and its continued success
for many years to come! The Avery is truly located in the centre of celebrating the
beauty of Canadian Art and the artistry of thoughtfully designed architecture. At The
Avery we are dedicated to supporting and delivering the very best to our community
and to our residents!
Come see what sets us apart!
MARGO Whitman, BBA. Director of Sales & Marketing.
902.223.3678 | [email protected]
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Alderney Landing
40 Alderney Drive, Dartmouth
(902) 466-3100
1707 Grafton Street, Halifax
(902) 444-3844
Proud to offer
delicious, healthy dishes
prepared with local ingredients.
thewoodenmonkey.ca
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PRISMATIC TEAM
Shahin Sayadi
Artistic Director
Maggie Stewart
Managing Director
PROGRAM
Mohsen Sharifian
Mariachi Ghost
Sounds of Motown
Winter Home
by Michael Greyeyes
Gypsophilia
Reeny Smith
Jaron Freeman Fox and
The Opposite of Everything
Global Savages
Asia & NuGruv
Nomadic Massive
Middle-Eastern Jazz Fusion
Akshongay Nova Dance Sanctified Brothers
Jeff Ward
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Kelsey MacDonald
Assistant Producer
Mike Mader
Technical Director/
Production Manager
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Messages
Map
Prismatic Greeting
Festival Schedule
Accommodations
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CONTENTS
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Mike Tanner
OneRedCat Webmaster
Play Readings
Spoken Word
Visual Artists
Activities Tent
Broken English Karaoke
Prismatic Industry Events
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Bernadette Richards
Volunteer Coordinator
Shivani Saini
Assistant Producer of Industry Events
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Minuteman Press
www.mmphalifax.com
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PREMIER'S MESSAGE
S ince 2008, the Prismatic Arts Festival has showcased
cutting-edge, innovative arts, featuring the work of
Canada’s leading culturally diverse and Aboriginal artists.
Our government is pleased that the Prismatic Arts
Festival continues to be successful, year after year.
Our rich and diverse cultural identity is what helps
define us and is a source of pride for Nova Scotians.
Thank you to the many professionals and volunteers
who have dedicated their time and effort to making the
festival a success.
Best wishes for success this year and for many years to
come.
Sincerely,
Honourable Stephen McNeil, M.L.A.
Premier
MAYOR'S MESSAGE
On behalf of Halifax Regional Council, it is my pleasure to
extend a warm welcome to everyone taking part in the
2015 Prismatic Festival taking place on the Dartmouth
Waterfront at Alderney Landing.
As one of Canada’s only multi-arts festivals, Prismatic
Arts Festival features wonderful performances in music,
dance, theatre, spoken word, and visual and media arts
to captivate the entire family. With professional
performing and visual artists from Nova Scotia and
across the country, the festival celebrates the
achievements of leading Aboriginal and culturally
diverse artists as well as professional development
through workshops and industry events.
Arts and culture are among this region’s most valuable
resources. I want to thank all the festival organizers,
volunteers and sponsors for their commitment and
dedication to our arts community and the continued
celebration of diversity in our region.
Welcome and enjoy this spectacular display of creativity,
talent, and art in all its forms!
Kindest regards,
Mike Savage
Mayor
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MINISTER'S MESSAGE
Welcome to this year’s Prismatic Arts Festival on
Dartmouth’s Alderney Landing.
Every year we look forward to this entertaining event,
and 2015 is no exception.
This festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our
cultural diversity through performances in music, dance,
theatre, spoken word, and visual and media arts.
The Prismatic Arts Festival continues its tradition of
bringing exciting performances to our province,
showcasing world-class and up-and-coming talent.
Thank you to the organizers, artists, and volunteers who
dedicated their time and energy to make this year’s
Prismatic Arts Festival possible.
MINISTER'S MESSAGE
W elcome to the Prismatic Arts Festival.
Performances and exhibitions of works by Aboriginal
and culturally diverse artists provide a great opportunity
for people of all ages to expand their cultural horizons.
Our Government is committed to making sure that
Canadians can enjoy enriching artistic experiences in
their own community. This is why we are pleased to
support Prismatic 2015.
On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the
Government of Canada, I would like to thank the
organizers, volunteers and all the talented artists who
ensure the success of this event.
Enjoy the Festival!
All the best for another successful festival.
The Honourable Shelly Glover
Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
Tony Ince
Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage
www.kingswharf.ca
King’s Wharf welcomes all attendees to
the Dartmouth Waterfront and
the Prismatic Arts Festival.
You are invited to explore the King’s Wharf
community this weekend.
OPEN HOUSE: 1-4pm Saturday and Sunday.
50 KINGS WHARF PLACE, OFF ALDERNEY
December 26-30
onelighttheatre.com
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Alderney
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Alderney Gate
alderney drive
ochterloney street
Tipi
Activities Tent
Gallery
1 st Floor
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Events Plaza
Wooden Monkey
Canadian
Museum of
Immigration
Pier2 1, Halifax
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Terminal
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2nd Floor
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Rotunda
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Mainstage
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2nd Floor
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PRISMATIC GREETING
Zaccheus Jackson Nyce embodied the spirit of Prismatic Festival and we are dedicating this year’s festival to his memory.
Welcome to Prismatic 2015. This is the second year that Prismatic is being held at Alderney Landing and there is a broad
spectrum of arts events to experience at Prismatic Arts Festival.
Your Festival pass includes access to all of the indoor and outdoor arts events. Enjoy the music and spoken word
performances on the outdoor mainstage, theatre performances and workshops on the Festival grounds, dance, theatre
and film screenings in the Alderney Landing Theatre, and visual arts in the Craig Gallery. One pass gets you into all
Prismatic Arts Festival events.
One of the great pleasures of organizing the Prismatic Arts Festival are the relationships that we build with artists,
audience members and our community partners. The success of the Festival depends on the talent, hard work, support
and dedication of many people and organizations. At Prismatic, we have been fortunate to build strong relationships with
our artists and partners – our Prismatic family.
Some of our artists have performed at every Prismatic Arts Festival since we started in 2010. Many audience members
will recall the powerful, heartfelt performances by award-winning spoken word Zaccheus Jackson. In addition to his
unforgettable performances, Zaccheus was a much-loved teacher – working with youth across Canada – and frequently
contributed to national conferences and gatherings – including discussions at Prismatic. He was warm, generous, open
and unbelievably talented.
Zaccheus was a bright light in the Canadian arts scene and touched all who met him or experienced his performances.
He was and is a beloved member of the Prismatic family. Tragically, Zaccheus died in an accident shortly after
performing at Prismatic 2014. His untimely death has left a hole in many lives and he will be deeply missed at Prismatic
this year and in years to come.
Zaccheus embodied the spirit of Prismatic – we dedicate this year’s Festival to his memory. We know that he will be
smiling over us during the 2015 Prismatic Arts Festival.
Shahin Sayadi Maggie Stewart
Artistic Director Managing Director
Zaccheus Jackson
illustrated by Komi Olaf
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SCHEDULE
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Day1: Wednesday
A
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ALDERNEY THEATRE
AUG 19
7:00-9:00pm
Opening Gala
Winter Home Performance
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10:00-11:30pm
ROTUNDA
ALDERNEY THEATRE
10 & Under Free
A
Jeff Ward, ArtistTalks,
Allysa Flint, PRICELYS,
Clyde A. Wray, Mohsen
Sharifian, and Mariachi Ghost
8:30-10pm
ALDERNEY THEATRE
C
Winter Home Performance
10:00-11:30pm
ROTUNDA
Broken English Karaoke
DAILY PASS
Festival Passes Available
Day 2: Thursday
AUG 20
CASH AT GATE
4:30-6:00pm
D
ONE PASS GETS YOU INTO ALL EVENTS
GROUP
SIZE
DAILY
PASS
FESTIVAL
PASS
1
$8
$15
2
$15
$30
3
$20
$40
4
$25
$50
EVENTS PLAZA
Global Savages
A
6:00-7:30pm
ALDERNEY THEATRE
The Hallway Play Reading
7:00-8:00pm
G
GALLERY
Stephanie Yee Artist Talk
7:30-9:30pm
Broken English Karaoke
Day 3: Friday
AUG 21
C
2:30-4:30pm
ROTUNDA
Deadbeats Playreading
E 5:00-6:00pm
TIPI
Sundancers
F 6:00-7:00pm
ACTIVITIES TENT
Nomadic Massive
Workshop
B 7:00-10:00pm
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
Sundance, Sanctified
Brothers, Clyde A. Wray,
Allysa Flint, Mariachi Ghost,
Jaron Freeman-Fox,
PRICELYS, India,
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ACTIVITIES TENT
Raina the Halifax
Mermaid
Nomadic Massive,
Mohsen Sharifian
and Asia & NuGruv
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ALDERNEY THEATRE
Nova Dance’s Akshongay
D 4:30-6:30pm
EVENTS PLAZA
9:00-10:00pm
Global Savages
ALDERNEY THEATRE
Winter Home Performance
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C 10:00-11:30pm
F
Evening Performances:
Allysa Flint, Mariachi Ghost,
Jaron Freeman-Fox,
PRICELYS, Reeny Smith,
and Sounds of Motown
1:00-2:00pm
ACTIVITIES TENT
Mariachi Ghost Workshop
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EVENTS PLAZA
Global Savages
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
AUG 22
C 10:00-11:30pm
1:00-2:00pm
ROTUNDA
TIPI
Broken English Karaoke
Sundancers
B 2:00-4:00pm
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
Roots n’ Rhythm, India,
Mohsen Sharifian
Cristina Magnusson, and
Nomadic Massive
D 4:30-6:30pm
TIPI
B 6:30-10:00pm
Day 4: Saturday
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
Afternoon Performances:
Allysa Flint, Sanctified
Brothers, Reeny Smith,
Cristina Magnusson,
Clyde A. Wray, India,
and Mariachi Ghost
6:30-7:30pm
Sundancers
ROTUNDA
Broken English Karaoke
4:30-6:00pm
B 1:00-3:30pm
Day 5: Sunday
AUG 23
F 1:00-2:00pm
F 5:30-6:30pm
ACTIVITIES TENT
Raina the Halifax Mermaid
E 6:30-7:30pm
TIPI
Sundancers
B 6:30-10:00pm
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
Evening Performances:
Cristina Magnusson,
Middle-Eastern Jazz Fusion,
Gypsophilia, PRICELYS, Asia
& NuGruv, and Nomadic
Massive
C 10:00-11:30pm
ACTIVITIES TENT
ROTUNDA
Raina the Halifax Mermaid
Broken English Karaoke
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ACCOMMODATIONS
JUST MENTION “PRISMATIC ARTS FESTIVAL” WHEN
MAKING YOUR BOOKING FOR A SPECIAL RATE
When you stay at
HOLIDAY INN
HARBOURVIEW
presents:
Holiday Inn Harbourview
101 Wyse Road, Dartmouth,
Nova Scotia, B3A 1L9
Front Desk: (902) 463-1100
Toll Free: (888) 434-0440
Centre in the Square Theatre
KITCHENER, ON
IMPACT15 Festival, MTSpace
Whet your appetite for everything from theatre
and dance to music and visual arts at this year’s
Prismatic Arts Festival on the
Dartmouth waterfront.
my-waterfront.ca
MyWaterfront
@My_Waterfront
PRETTY THINGS
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PRETTY THINGS
utique.ca
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20 Wentw
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MOHSEN SHARIFIAN
Award-winning Iranian musician, Mohsen Sharifian, brings the traditional music
of the Bouchehr region of southern Iran to the global stage. He performs solo
and with Lian Music, the band that he formed in 1993. Prismatic is honoured to
bring this renown and talented musician to the stage in Nova Scotia.
EVENING, AUG 19 & 21
AFTERNOON, AUG 22
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OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
The folk music of Bouchehr draws its distinct sounds from the diverse
communities that settled in the region over many generations. This includes:
the traditional music of several eras of Iranian history; the religious music of the
Islamic, Zoroastrian and Christian communities of the region; fishing songs
from coastal communities; influences from Chinese, Indian, Somali and
Tanzanian merchants; and perhaps most importantly, the musical traditions of
east African slaves who escaped and settled in Bouchehr.
Mohsen Sharifian is a master of the ney-anban, a traditional double reed
instrument from southern Iran. He is also the leading global authority on the
traditional music and instruments of Bouchehr. Prismatic is proud to present
the pre-eminent artist of this rich and complex musical tradition.
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MARIACHI GHOST
From driving rhythms and soaring melodies to brooding synths and dreamy
vocal breaks, Mariachi Ghost fuses traditional Mexican song, progressive
rock and a flair for the dramatic, to ignite the world of their namesake’s
tenuous existence. The band was formed in 2009, based on a graphic novel
by lead-singer Jorge Requena. In it, the principal character, Charro, struggles
to find purpose in a life that has been torn apart by violence and hardship. He
eventually turns his anguish outwards, believing to have been ordained by a
higher power to punish those that prey on the weak.
EVENING, AUG 19 & 22
AFTERNOON, AUG 23
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OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
ACTIVITIES TENT
From the graphic novel sprang the captivating music and performance of
Mariachi Ghost. Seven musicians interweave diverse genres and rhythms to
create a soundscape that is dramatic, haunting, and explosive. They’re joined
on stage by dancer and band-mate Alexandra Garrido, who acts as a conduit
of the music, expertly assuming its auras of sorrow, reflection and rage. The
result is a rich mixture somewhere between Pink Floyd and a traditional
serenata, infused with contemporary dance; a ballet for the dead.
In addition to performances at Prismatic, we invite everyone to join Mariachi
Ghost for a special workshop on Saturday, August 22 at 1pm
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SOUNDS OF MOTOWN
EVENING, AUG 22
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OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
C oaxing bodies to the dance floor with favourites from the likes of Aretha
Franklin, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and Etta James, The
Sounds of Motown is equal parts soothing and electrifying, and much more
than a cover band. It takes an unstoppable lineup of performers to do such a
legendary set list justice, which is why this band is built around the mammoth
voices of genre-spanning vocalist Michelle Durling and veterans behind the
mic Sam Moon, Henry Lewis and Carl Thomas. The familiar songs will draw
you in, the air-tight performances will hook you and the band’s dynamic,
fun-loving spirit will stick with you.
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WINTER HOME
BY MICHAEL GREYEYES
AUG 19-21
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ALDERNEY LANDING
THEATRE
Presented by:
W inter Home is a multi-media installation created by Michael Greyeyes for
Signal Installation that examines disconnection through a series of projected
and static images. This performance action destabilizes trans-historical
notions of memory, home, and our attenuation to family history. Iconic
photographs of Indigenous people intervene in the space and collide with the
presence of the performer troubling our presumptions of authenticity.
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GYPSOPHILIA
EVENING, AUG 23
B
OUTDOOR
MAINSTAGE
Halifax-based Gypsophilia’s original instrumental music blurs the lines
between hot jazz, klezmer, funk, and world rhythms. Their killer live shows
and danceable, genre-bending sound have made them an audience favourite
all over Canada and the US. With a combination of serious musicianship,
humour and showmanship they are capable of enchanting a sit-down crowd
one moment and whipping people into a dancing, clapping, singing frenzy the
next. At Prismatic, Gypsophilia will perform fan favourites and new songs
from their recently released album, Night Swimming. In Night Swimming,
Gypsophilia departs from the purely live approach of their previous discs in
pursuit of a fresh verve and polish for their original music. The result is a
hauntingly beautiful 9-song masterpiece that showcases a darker, cinematic
side of Gypsophilia alongside their signature ebullient swinging sound.
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REENY SMITH
EVENING, AUG 22
AFTERNOON, AUG 23
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Reeny Smith is an award winning singer/songwriter, from the musical
power-house Smith family of North Preston, Nova Scotia continues to leave
her audiences wanting more of her impeccable vocals, original songs and
modern style. Commonly referred to as the “Canadian Alicia Keys,” Reeny
started singing and playing piano as a young child and her roots singing in
church provide a solid foundation for a promising career. Reeny has been part
of Prismatic since 2008 and we are thrilled to watch her career take off in
recent years.
Reeny has just recently been awarded Artist of the Year at the 2015 ANSMA
Awards and has been selected as the winner of the 2015 Casino Nova Scotia
Artist in Residence Competition after competing against other talented local
performers!
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JARON FREEMAN FOX and
THE OPPOSITE OF EVERYTHING
EVENING, AUG 21 & 22
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OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
J aron Freeman-Fox’s musical roots are in Celtic and bluegrass fiddling, in
his electrifying performances, he fuses traditional fiddle with Indian classical
music and jazz. Contorting the violin into new traditions, Freeman-Fox and
his band The Opposite of Everything, dances down the fine line between
the beautiful and the ridiculous, while redefining what the violin is capable
of. He has been described as the “Jimi Hendrix of the violin” by some, and
plays world music in the truest sense of the word—taking inspiration from
everywhere he goes. With the ability to transition from Gypsy to Klezmer to
Celtic to Country without skipping a beat, The Opposite of Everything is an
infectious party! The line-up consists of New Orleans-style clarinetist John
Williams, electro-pop klezmer accordionist Robbie Grunwald, jazz bassist
Charles James, and drummer Dan Stadnicki. After three busy years of
playing folk, jazz and world music festivals (including performances at the
Vancouver Folk Fest, The Ottawa Jazz Festival, and official showcases at
WOMEX in Greece and Folk Alliance International in Memphis, TN) the
band will be touring coast-to-coast again this summer, then heading
overseas for their first full European tour this fall, now with their eagerlyawaited new album!
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GLOBAL SAVAGES
THE DEBAJEHMUJIG STORYTELLERS
AUG 20, 22 & 23 @
4:30-6:30PM
D
EVENTS PLAZA
Presented by:
T he GLOBAL SAVAGES are a small band of family members who have been
travelling since the beginning of time to share their story and the teachings of
their ancestors. They bring stories for all humankind – for the preservation of
humanity. Who will listen? Under the open sky, with cedar tea brewing over
the fire, The GLOBAL SAVAGES will share how their ancestors understood
and experienced the world and what they learned and passed down to us over
thousands of years. What do the symbols carved into petroglyphs and
painted on rocks mean? What did our ancestors want us to know and why?
Why have the Elders sent them out into the world to share this story now?
The GLOBAL SAVAGES is developed and performed by The Debajehmujig
Storytellers based on Manitoulan Island. The GLOBAL SAVAGES experience
is gentle, honest, powerful, and respectful. Audiences will not only leave with
new knowledge and understanding, they will also learn how to apply the
teachings to their own lives.
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ASIA & NUGRUV
EVENING, AUG 21 & 23
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E nthusiasm and energy best describe this funky, upbeat dance band. We
guarantee that you will be on your feet when Asia & NuGruv hit the stage.
The band features an exceptional five-piece rhythm section, two incredible
horn players (trumpet & saxophone), two female background vocalists and a
lead female vocalist who always delivers a show stopping performance.
Asia’s singing is reminiscent of Chaka Khan, Mary J. Blige and Aretha Franklin.
Whether she sings or dances the crowd is always thoroughly engaged.
Performing Old & New Skool R&B, Soul, Classic Motown and Funky Blues,
you can be sure that the band will leave the crowd smiling, singing and
dancing!
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NOMADIC MASSIVE
EVENING, AUG 21 & 23
AFTERNOON, AUG 22
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ACTIVITIES TENT
R apping in English, French, Creole, Spanish and Arabic, Nomadic Massive is
Montreal Hip-Hop’s best-kept secret. Spreading their sound across borders and
cultures, the group has captivated audiences and critics worldwide. Sharing a
message of universal understanding and social justice, the super-group has
released two albums and two EP’s. Nomadic Massive has toured North and
South America, the Caribbean and Europe and has shared the stage with the
likes of Deltron 3030, Charles Bradley, K’Naan and Julian Marley. Nomadic
Massive is currently recording their brand new album which is set to be
released in 2015.
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MIDDLE-EASTERN JAZZ FUSION
DINUK WIJERATNE, DANIEL MACNEIL, NICK HALLEY, AND CHRIS MITCHELL
PR
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Middle-Eastern Jazz Fusion is an exemplary group of musicians composed of
leading Canadian jazz and world musicians: Dinuk Wijeratne, Daniel MacNeil,
Chris Mitchell and Nick Halley. These talented and dynamic musicians come
together for an evocative evening of Middle-Eastern fusion, mixing intricate
compositions with captivating improvisations. Blending eastern and western
styles, traditions and instruments in ways that will leave audiences entranced.
Middle Eastern Jazz Fusion is led by Dinuk Wijeratne. This Sri Lankan-born
composer-conductor-pianist is a multi-disciplinary instrumentalist, composer,
educator, and arranger. His boundary-crossing work sees him equally at home in
collaborations with symphony orchestras and string quartets, Tabla players and
DJs, and takes him to international venues as poles apart as the Berlin
Philharmonie and the North Sea Jazz Festival. His music and collaborative work
embrace the great diversity of his international background and influences.
Daniel MacNeil is a Multi-Discipline Instrumentalist (Oud, Guitar, Percussion),
composer, educator, and arranger based in Halifax. Known for his work in many
genres of “world music” including: Flamenco, Middle Eastern, Indian, and Brazilian,
Daniel also works professionally and intimately in Western Classical,
Contemporary, Fusion, Improv and in collaboration for dance accompaniment. He
is the founder and Director of Halifax, Nova Scotia’s Premiere Middle Eastern
Music Chamber Ensemble “Nafas”.
Drummer and world percussionist, Nick Halley has performed and recorded
internationally with a wide range of musicians. In 2012, Nick was awarded the
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of his contribution to
Canada and Nova Scotia through the arts, particularly for his work with Capella
Regalis Men and Boys Choir.
EVENING, AUG 23
B
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
Engaging and innovative saxophonist, Chris Mitchell is heralded as one of Canada’s
finest instrumentalists. Chris has contributed to the music scene in a number of
diverse and exciting ways. Chris has toured extensively in North America, Europe
and in Asia and across Canada. Currently active in various musical groups, Chris
also holds the Associate Director of Music position at the Fountain School of
Performing Arts, Dalhousie University in Halifax.
Personnel: Dinuk Wijeratne (Piano), Daniel MacNeil (Oud), Nick Halley
(Percussion), and Chris Mitchell (Saxophone)
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AKSHONGAY
NOVA DANCE
Akshongay (Bengali for together) is a compelling dance duet that brings together
multiple influences; bharatanatyam, modern dance; Hindu mythology, French Canadian
folklore; love and loss; togetherness and separation; regrets and passions; joy and
heartbreak. Intimate, rich with powerful images, a hybrid physical vocabulary and
theatrical sensibility combine to create a hypnotic journey.
AUG 22 @ 4:30PM
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ALDERNEY LANDING
THEATRE
The decade long partnership of Nova Bhattacharya and Louis Laberge-Côté provides a
satisfying experience of virtuosic dancing, mature and sensitive partnering and strong
emotional content.
The evocative lighting design of Montreal’s Marc Parent, and the haunting score mixed
live by Phil Strong create a dramatic environment in which the work resides.
One show only! Don’t miss this spectacular dance performance.
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SANCTIFIED BROTHERS
EVENING, AUG 21
AFTERNOON, AUG 23
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OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
The Sanctified Brothers are a booming men’s soul gospel group from North
Preston. Nova Scotia has a long tradition of fantastic gospel music and The
Sanctified Brothers, formerly known as The Deep River Boys, have quickly
established themselves as one of the best groups in Canada. The Sanctified
Brothers will have audiences on their feet with their high-energy, musically
impeccable performances. The Sanctified Brothers have performed at the
Prismatic Arts Festival, the TD Halifax Jazz Festival, throughout the Maritimes and
internationally. For the past two years, The Sanctified Brothers have also been part
of Onelight Theatre’s annual holiday show, Tell it on the Mountain. Their
performances at Prismatic 2015 will feature songs from the gospel cannon and
some of the original gospel arrangements of traditional Christmas carols, that are
featured in Tell it on the Mountain.
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JEFF WARD
MASTER OF CEREMONIES
J eff was born and raised in Metepenagiag Mi’kmaq Nation (also known as
Red Bank) along the Miramichi River in New Brunswick. For the past ten
years, he has lived in Membertou and at present, is the General Manager of
the Membertou Heritage Park, drawing on his vast experience and knowledge
in the fields of culture, management and administration. Jeff is currently in the
Masters Program of Community Economic Development at CBU
AUG 19-23
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ALDERNEY LANDING
TIPI
As a public figure, Jeff has been dancing, drumming and performing his way
into people’s hearts since the age of eight. He is currently a member of both
the Sons of Membertou and Thunder Eagle Singers. Jeff provides Master of
Ceremonies Service for numerous First Nation Pow Wows in the Atlantic
region. He has also performed in numerous plays at the Cape Breton
University’s Boardmore Theatre, and been a keynote speaker and Emcee for a
variety of conferences including Dialogue New Brunswick, Reform on Social
Security AFN and the Youth Council of New Brunswick, to name a few. Jeff
Ward will also be speaking at the Conference events located at the Canadian
Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.
presents:
Centre in
the Square Theatre
KITCHENER, ON
IMPACT15 Festival
MTSpace
theatre is here
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C Aug 21 @ 2 pm
ROTUNDA
DEADBEATS
by Garret C. Smith
C Aug 20 @ 6 pm
ALDERNEY LANDING
THE HALLWAY
by Leah-Simone Bowen
Leah-Simone is a Toronto based
theatre practitioner that has
worked across Canada as an actor,
improviser, playwright, director,
and arts administrator. Her play,
The Hallway, is set in 1936 during
one of the worst heat waves in
history, the tenants of a Negro
rooming house struggle to cope
with daily life, while a Russian
immigrant tries to escape his past.
Prismatic is proud to present a
staged reading of The Hallway
accompanied by live music.
Playwright Leah-Simone Bowen will
be at the play reading and will be
participating in a talk-back session
following the performance.
Prismatic presents a staged reading
of a new play, Deadbeats, by
Aboriginal theatre artist Garret C.
Smith. Garret is a proud Blackfoot
from the Peigan and Blood tribes of
southern Alberta. Deadbeats, takes
place 2 years after the signing of
Treaty 7 when Blackfoot Nation(s)
are starving, sick and desperate to
provide for their families.
Deadbeats follows three men who
have volunteered to travel south in
search of the ever-decreasing
buffalo. An unfortunate accident
forces them to change plans and
the discovery of a dark secret
pushes them to commit acts of
dishonesty. Playwright, Garrett C.
Smith will be in attendance at the
reading and will participate in a
talk-back session following the
performance.
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Aug 19-23
ALDERNEY LANDING
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
ALLYSA FLINT
A B
Aug 19-23
ALDERNEY LANDING
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
PRICELYS
PRICELYS is a spoken word poet, film
producer and social entrepreneur.
She’s been working with
communities across Canada for 10
years strengthening the voice of
Indigenous youth. Her passion for
community and words meld together
in a perfect marriage as she
continues sharing the message of
hope and resilience.
Allysa Flint, local Halifax spoken
word artist, joins us again at the
Prismatic Arts Festival! Allysa’s
powerful performances at Prismatic
2014 were a highlight of the
mainstage performances; this
emerging spoken word artist has a
bright future ahead. Allysa has
been writing poetry since she was
12 and has always dreamed of
performing onstage. Her writing
reflects the topics she feels most
passionate about: the issues facing
youth in this day and age, such as
sexual violence, suicide, bullying,
drugs and alcohol. A sensitive and
passionate youth artist, Allysa
strives to convey an insightful
message to her fellow youth
through her spoken word.
B Aug 21-23
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
CRISTINA MAGNUSSON
Cristina Magnusson is an
Indigenous hip-hop artist from
Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her passion
for her heritage and her people
shine are central to her artistic
work. Her heartfelt songs have a
deep central message: being
Indigenous isn’t a choice—
it is a gift.
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Aug 19-22
ALDERNEY LANDING
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
CLYDE A. WRAY
B Aug 22–24
OUTDOOR MAINSTAGE
ROOTS N’ RHYTHM
Roots n’ Rhythm is an uplifting
spoken word performance that fuses
rhythm and soul into each line and
beckons the audiences’ ear. Her
poetry has been performed across
Canada and internationally in Ghana,
Rwanda, and Ethiopia. She uses her
spoken word to address cultural,
social, and environmental issues and
to reflect on everyday life though her
unique lens as a small-town raised
first generation Ghanaian Canadian,
Abena Amako-Green.
Clyde A. Wray is a well-known poet,
playwright, performer, producer,
director, radio host and speaker that
currently resides in Saint John, NB
with life partner Kelli and their three
children Astrid, Shasta and Nikolai.
Originally from New York City, Clyde
moved to the Maritimes from Los
Angeles, California. Clyde has had a
number of careers, and a wealth of
experience, has traveled extensively
in the United States, Europe and Asia
with two notable stops in Vietnam.
Clyde has contributed to several
Onelight Productions, most recently
he wrote and narrated the debut of
Tell It On The Mountain.
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Aug 19-23
Artist talk Aug 20 @ 7:00pm
GALLERY
STEPHANIE YEE
Stephanie Yee is a visual artist and
cultural worker originally from
Barrie, Ontario, now based in
Halifax.
Gallery
Installation Statement:
I am pleased to have the
opportunity to present an
exhibition that reflects upon my
practice as a performance artist.
This show entitled, Gestures,
includes three GIF videos as well as
photo stills documenting two
performances. With my work being
concept based, I allow for the ideas
to determine the methods in which
I communicate. Believing that less
is more when communicating a
message, I often use minimal acts
and repetition as a way of exploring
my subject matter. As these simple
gestures are looped, a narrative is
created as we now must consider
how the element of time plays a
role in these acts.
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Aug 19-23
GALLERY
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Aug 19-23
GALLERY
DAVID J. BROOKS
The late David J. Brooks made a
name for himself as one of the first
contemporary Mi’kmaq artists in
Nova Scotia. His intensely colourful
and iconic style of painting was
uniquely his own, and can be found in
museums and galleries all over Nova
Scotia. Many know his art from the
vibrant and graphic mural of an eagle
and the sun that blazes on the
Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre in
North-End Halifax. David dedicated
his life to art, and shared his passion
with his two daughters, Sarah and
Chelsea. Prismatic is honoured to
have the Brooks Family’s work
showcased at Prismatic. The family
will be selling some of David’s work
and his daughter, Chelsea, will be
selling some of her very own artwork.
TARA FRANCIS
Tara is an Aboriginal artist, who lives
in Elsipogtog First Nation. She is of
Mi'kmaq and Irish decent and is
inspired by the ancient spiritual
practices of her ancestors, searching
for common threads in their rich
histories and by her own personal
connection to Mother Earth. Her art
is her journey and her gift. Tara
studied at the New Brunswick
College of Craft and Design, taking
Native Art Study under the guidance
of the now late Elder Gwen Bear,
where she learned the traditional Mi'k
maq skill of Porcupine Quillwork, Silk
Painting, and fabric embellishment.
Her most recent accomplishment has
been her participation in the group
exhibit Over and Under hosted by
Harbourfront Centre in downtown
Toronto as part of the Planet
IndigenUS Festival, the show runs
from June 20th until September 20th
2015.
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F Aug 21 @ 6:00pm
ACTIVITIES TENT
NOMADIC MASSIVE
YOUTH WORKSHOP
Ongoing Activities!
Be apart of the festival and come
create your own works of art in
the Activities Tent! Ongoing
hands on activities for kids and
kids at heart! Express your
creativity for free!
Crafting Event:
Festival Flower Crown
Date: Aug 22 @ 3:00pm
Crafting Event:
Paper Fishy Craft
Date: Aug 23 @ 3:00pm
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Aug 22 @ 4:30pm
Aug 23 @ 1:00pm & 5:30pm
Join us for a youth workshop with the
band Nomadic Massive, learning to
rap in different languages! Limited
space available, call and reserve your
spot today!
ACTIVITIES TENT
RAINA THE HALIFAX MERMAID
Raina the Halifax Mermaid is
swimming in to visit kids and
kids-at-heart during the Prismatic
Arts Festival. Raina performs locally
with her troupe the Halifax Mermaids.
The mermaids have a special focus on
children and empowering people to
create a healthy ocean. At Prismatic,
Raina will be sharing stories and
myths of mermaids from around the
world.
F Aug 22 @1pm
ACTIVITIES TENT
MARIACHI GHOST WORKSHOP
Come learn all about the history and
culture of mariachi and day of the
dead!
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BROKEN ENGLISH KARAOKE
STEPHANIE YEE
After its successful premier at last year’s Prismatic Arts Festival, we are pleased to
announce that Broken English Karaoke is back again! Festival goers are invited to end
each night with us either on the stage or in the audience. This interactive performance
installation takes the karaoke we all love or hate, and evens out the playing field by
replacing the lyrics of popular American hits with broken English translations. With
the help of online translators, lyrics have been translated to other languages,
switched back to English, and then edited into new sing-along videos.
In North America though karaoke is mostly confined to aspiring celebrities and
drinking culture, with Broken English Karaoke it doesn’t matter which camp you belong
to, it’s all about sharing your experience as you step up to the mic. All within the length
of a song, each opportunity challenges the participant to navigate the boundaries
between the familiar and unfamiliar. The end result allows for a fun experience that not
only exposes the complexities of language, but social anxieties as well. Come for a
drink and have a good time as we delve into and explore the lively state of being lost
and found in translation.
AUG 19-23 @ 10PM
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ROTUNDA
Presented by:
Stephanie Yee is a visual artist and cultural worker originally from Barrie, Ontario, now
based in Halifax. Though beginning her academic career in theater, she graduated with
a BFA from NSCAD in 2012. Her practice interrogates concepts of communication
and identity. Primarily using performance, video, sculpture, and installation, her works
employ familiar imagery, processes, and materials as a means of exploring
preconceived notions. She has exhibited as an artist and curator in artist-run-centers,
festivals and galleries both locally and internationally at the Anna Leonowens Gallery,
HERMES, Struts Gallery, The Khyber Centre for the Arts, La Mama Galleria and Family
Business Gallery.
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INDIGENOUS PERFORMANCE NETWORK
GATHERING AT THE PRISMATIC FESTIVAL
T he Prismatic Arts Festival is proud to be hosting a
variety of conference and industry activities at this year's
Festival. Many of these events are being hosted at the
Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.
The conference events focus on the ongoing
development of the Indigenous Performing Network. The
sessions have been developed in association with the
Indigenous Performing Arts Alliance (IPAA), a national
arts service organization claiming space for all
Indigenous performing artists.
The conference events are a gathering of diverse
individuals to exchange local protocols, discuss
Indigenous performance and make commitments to
developing collaborative relationships in the region and
beyond. We welcome you to join us to learn and share
protocols, network with artists and leaders in the
community, and discuss the future of Indigenous
performance in the Atlantic and beyond.
The Prismatic Arts Festival is also hosting a series of
industry events to introduce Atlantic Canadian
Aboriginal and culturally diverse artists to national and
international producers and presenters who are
attending Prismatic. These industry events were made
possible through the support of the Atlantic Canada
Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
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Wednesday, August 19 3:30-5:30 pm
PIER 21
ATLANTIC ARTISTS RECEPTION
Networking with industry leaders.
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Wednesday, August 19, 7-8:30pm
ALDERNEY LANDING THEATRE
OPENING GALA FOR PRISMATIC ARTS FESTIVAL
Opening Ceremonies include performances from
Allysa Flint, PRICELYS, Mohsen Sharifian, and
Mariachi Ghost.
I Thursday, August 20, 9:30-10:30am
PIER 21
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
OPENING CONFERENCE AND INTRODUCTION TO
#PERFORMANCEWIKI
Reflecting on the outcomes of The Study/Repast on
Manitoulin Island in May 2015, explore IPAA’s
initiatives to claim space for all Indigenous
performing artists. Add yourself and your peers to
Network database.
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Thursday, August 20, 10:30am – noon
PIER 21
SESSION #1: LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT &
CULTURAL PROTOCOLS
Situate ourselves within the region. Discover the
intersections between traditional and performance
protocols. Examine the relationships with what
protocol does in relation to the artistic process.
SESSION #3: APPLYING INDIGENOUS STRUCTURES
TO THE IPN
With open dialogue, discuss respectful engagement
and build relationships with the active Network.
Contribute and respond to the Claiming Space panel.
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WOODEN MONKEY (ALDERNEY LANDING)
ATLANTIC ARTISTS RECEPTION & SPOKEN WORD
PERFORMANCE BY ALLYSA FLINT
Enjoy lunch provided and network with industry
leaders.
C Thursday, August 20, 2-3:15pm
ALDERNEY LANDING THEATRE (ROTUNDA)
SESSION #2: CLAIMING SPACE: NETWORK
INFRASTRUCTURE
Using Indigenous protocol as a framework to support
the unique work of Indigenous. performing artist with
a focus on disability arts, international trade routes,
trans-disciplinary work, and Mi’kmaq performing arts.
Friday, August 21, 9:30-11am
PIER 21
SESSION #4 – ENVISIONING THE FUTURE OF THE
INDIGENOUS PERFORMING NETWORK
By engaging with the 4 pillars of the IPN: Touring,
Collaboration/Partnerships, Training/Knowledgesharing, establish long and short-term priorities.
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Friday, August 21, 11am-12:30pm
PIER 21
SESSION #5 – AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT AND
OUTREACH
With a focus on Atlantic Indigenous performance,
address the challenges with audience development
and outreach in the region. Begin to build reciprocal
relationships and strategies by exercising our
understanding of what protocol does to strengthen
the Indigenous performance sector.
H Thursday, August 20, 12:30 - 2pm
Thursday, August 20, 3:15-4:30pm
ALDERNEY LANDING THEATRE (ROTUNDA)
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Saturday, August 22, 10am to noon
PIER 21
ATLANTIC ARTISTS RECEPTION
Networking with industry leaders.
THANKS TO PACT FOR SUPPORTING
THE PRISMATIC 2015 CONFERENCE EVENTS.
Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
at the Halifax Seaport
to see how Canada is shaped by the world.
Mention this ad to receive 25% off adult admission
and 20% off in the Pier 21 Gift Shop.
Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
Musée canadien de l'immigration du Quai 21
Pier21.ca |
Listen together.
Share together.
Celebrate together.
Come together.
Proud to sponsor the Prismatic
Arts Festival.
For the love of music.
We all know live shows are fun. We’re there hanging
out with passionate crowds, singing along with the
headliner, cheering at the top of our lungs, and making
memories that last a lifetime. Being the fans that we are,
TD proudly celebrates Canadian music festivals. See you
at the next show.
Join us
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