Experience Prince Albert’s Snake Dances Live at Historical Museum

The Prince Albert Historical Museum is set to host a unique event on September 20, 2023, allowing attendees to experience the city’s storied past through interactive performances of the famed ‘snake dances.’ This event marks the second collaboration between the museum and Live History, a performing arts company renowned for immersing audiences in local narratives.

The ‘snake dances’ were a vibrant community tradition in Prince Albert from the 1960s to the 1980s, where high school students would gather during Halloween, winding through the streets before culminating in a celebratory dance at a local school. According to Michelle Taylor, the museum’s curator, the goal is to engage younger audiences with a piece of history that resonates with them. “We wanted to do something that was in more recent memory because our museum, like many others, often focuses on older history,” Taylor explained. “We aim to showcase that museums evolve and are not just about the distant past.”

The immersive performance will unfold within the museum, allowing participants to connect with the narrative in a dynamic setting. While the essence of the snake dance will be preserved, Taylor noted that the event will not involve the traditional procession through the streets. Instead, it will focus on storytelling within the museum’s walls.

Planning for the event began nearly a year ago, with Taylor and her team working alongside Live History to ensure a polished presentation. They initiated discussions to decide on the theme and key historical figures to feature in the performance, which will incorporate elements of local history and community significance. “Live History conducts thorough research, and they send out questionnaires to gather pertinent details that will enrich the play,” Taylor shared.

Audience members will have the opportunity to engage with the performance as various local figures from that era, such as the Chief of Police and the Mayor, take center stage. The production promises to weave together elements of local lore with a narrative that invites curiosity and participation.

The performances are scheduled for two showings on the same day, at 14:00 and 19:00. Tickets are priced at $50 and are available for purchase at the Prince Albert Historical Museum. Due to the interactive format, only 25 tickets will be sold for each show, ensuring an intimate experience for attendees.

This event not only highlights a significant cultural tradition but also serves as a reminder of the role of museums in preserving and presenting contemporary history. By bridging the gap between generations, the Prince Albert Historical Museum aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the community’s evolving narrative.