Land, Language & Songs: Songs at the Spindle Whorls

Pacific Opera Victoria singers perform songs in Cree, Anishinaabe, Nuu-chah-nulth, Dakota, Toisan, Hindi, Japanese and more on a free afternoon walk through downtown Victoria, stopping at the Signs of lək̓ʷəŋən spindle whorl markers. Songhees Knowledge Keeper Yuxwelupton Qwal’ qaxala (Bradley Dick) leads the opening and closing gatherings.

Part of Pacific Opera Victoria's Found in Translation initiative, celebrating Indigenous languages alongside languages brought to Canada by newcomers. Presented in partnership with the Royal BC Museum, the Victoria Native Friendship Centre, and the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria. Singers: Tim Carter, Alex Chen, Michaela Dickey, Chelsea Kutyn, Tarané Noruzi Opening and closing gatherings: Yuxwelupton Qwal’ qaxala (Bradley Dick), Songhees Knowledge Keeper Elders & translators: Judy Elk, Stella Johnson, Genevieve Mack, Aldeen Mason, Yukari Peerless, Amrita Verma, Dr. Lorna Wánosts’a7 Williams, Dale Whitford, Grace Wong Sneddon Walking route (about 15–20 minutes between stops): 12:30–1:00 PM – Opening Gathering, Songhees Point 1:30 PM – Victoria City Hall 2:05 PM – Inner Harbour 2:30 PM – Royal BC Museum 3:30 PM – Closing Gathering and shared finale, Beacon Hill Park Lookout Free. Walk the full route or join at any stop. The opening and closing gatherings each run at least 30 minutes, so bring a chair or blanket.