Elementary schools treated to HahoPayuk performance

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Several Alberni area elementary schools' children poured out of buses and into the Tseshaht longhouse April 22 to witness a cultural celebration by HahoPayuk students.

Students from Eighth Ave, Wood, Gill and Redford elementary schools filled the longhouse to watch HahoPayuk's presentation of the animal kingdom story. The play, based on a story by Dr. George Clutesi, has become a favorite of audiences throughout the province as the students have been invited to perform it at many conferences and gatherings, and are currently fundraising to perform the play on Haida Gwaii at the opening of a new museum and community complex in Skidegate.

HahoPayuk cultural instructor Jessie Stephens introduced Tseshaht spokesman Dave Watts Sr., who welcomed the visiting students into Tseshaht Territory.

"We're happy to welcome you into our territory and into our longhouse, and show you a bit of our culture," said Watts, before being presented with a blanket from HahoPayuk School.

Stephens then introduced Qui quis top sup, and told the story of how he brought animals and birds to Nuu-chah-nulth-aht. Through Qui quis top sup, she introduced the sun, moon, wolf, bear, eagle, thunderbird, cougar, raven, wren, duck and hummingbirds.

"50 years ago, the government lifted the 67-year-old potlatch ban," said Stephens.

"Today you will see things that were hidden for many years as we bring out 11 animals and 15 masks and hear songs sung by our seven drummers and singers," she said.

After the performance, Nuu-chah-nulth education worker Diane Gallic thanked the HahoPayuk students and teachers for sharing the performance with students from the area, adding that the event kicks off the arts and culture week for Eighth Ave. and Wood elementary schools.