Winnipeg Welcomes Free Premiere of Award-Winning Film Experience

The Westworth United Church in Winnipeg is set to host the premiere of the highly acclaimed film, Walking Through the Fire: Visual Album, on March 15, 2024. This musical film experience showcases the talents of award-winning First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists from across Canada, promising an engaging and culturally rich presentation.

The event is free to the public and will feature opening remarks from filmmaker and producer Chris McKhool, as well as a post-screening Q&A session with members of the renowned musical group Sultans of String, which includes Winnipeg native Drew Birston. The film has garnered significant accolades, winning “Best Musical Film” and “Best Soundtrack” at the Cannes World Film Festival and earning the award for Best Composer at the Chicago Indie Film Awards.

Exploring Cultural Diversity Through Music

The very fact that you’re doing this tells me that you believe in the validity of our language, you believe in the validity of our art and our music and that you want to help to bring it out. And that’s really what’s important, is for people to have faith that we can do this.

The Late Honourable Murray Sinclair, Ojibwe Elder and former chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating Indigenous art and music.

Walking Through the Fire features a diverse array of musical styles, ranging from Métis fiddling to East Coast kitchen parties, rumba, rock, and the traditional drumming of the Pacific Northwest. The film includes performances by renowned artists such as Elder and poet Dr. Duke Redbird, the Métis Fiddler Quartet, Ojibwe/Finnish singer-songwriter Marc Meriläinen (Nadjiwan), Coast Tsimshian singer Shannon Thunderbird, and blues singer Crystal Shawanda, among others.

The film runs for approximately 80 minutes, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the vibrant musical heritage of Turtle Island. This premiere serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit and creativity of Indigenous artists, highlighting the importance of their contributions to Canadian culture.

Engaging the Community

The premiere event aims to foster community engagement and dialogue around Indigenous music and arts. By bringing together filmmakers, musicians, and the public, the organizers hope to create a platform for sharing stories and experiences that resonate deeply within the community.

The support for this event reflects a growing recognition of the significance of Indigenous voices in the arts. As the film continues to gain recognition on international platforms, local audiences are invited to be part of this unique experience that celebrates cultural diversity and artistic collaboration.

Walking Through the Fire: Visual Album not only entertains but also educates and inspires, making it a must-see for those interested in the rich tapestry of Canadian music and culture. The premiere is anticipated to draw a large audience, eager to experience this exceptional film that honors the artistic expressions of Indigenous peoples.