The Kikino Northern Lites Métis dance group got some senior-level appreciation last Wednesday, performing for residents at the W. J. Cadzow Hospital’s extended care ward in Lac La Biche.
During the mid-afternoon show, some members of the Northern Lites – a group that has toured across Canada – performed a variety of traditional dances and jigs for the seniors in attendance.
Charlene Gladue, who works in long-term care and the adult day program at the hospital, said the facility does not generally host big events for long-term care patients, but when the idea came to her, it seemed to be a good one to explore.
After speaking with a friend who is connected to the dancers, Gladue set out to make arrangements.
The vibrant colours of the traditional Métis clothing, the music, the motion, and the cultural connections all worked together, she said, to make it a fun event that raised the spirits of the extended care residents.
The success of the Northern Lites show has Gladue hoping to find more people to volunteer and perform for residents.
“It gets their mind off of things, and music is always a good therapy for them,” she told Lakeland This Week. “They love music and dancers.”
