Ontario Summer Indigenous Games and More

I guess this could just as easily have been an entry in my portfolio, but I’ve been doing this so long that its less of a project than an integral part of my identity.

Photo (L to R): Taliah Lyons, Zara Lyons, DJ Shub, Sarina Lyons, Belle Bailey and Justin “Jah’kota” Holness.

My sisters and I have been in dance most of our lives. First as students, then in competitions, and later as performers. Until recently, the highlight might have been opening for Ashley MacIsaac at Bluesfest, but that was part of a larger dance troupe.

This summer my sisters and I have been doing a lot as a trio, hitting Almonte Celtfest, Music and Beyond LIVE at Tabaret Hall, the Métis Nation of Ontario Summer Rendezvous, and opening for DJ Shub at the opening ceremonies of the Ontario Summer Indigenous Games in July alone.

We performed our regular set on the mainstage at the University of Ottawa campus in what was an amazing showcase of dance, drumming, and DJ performances from artists from all over Canada. It was so brilliant we stayed to the very end and were fortunate to get the group picture above.

What an honour to be chosen. Thanks Shub and Jah’kota for your music, and Belle for keeping the day running smoothly!