Popular JigFit and Powwow Impact workouts return

I·SPARC, in partnership with Madelaine McCallum, is pleased to present this free six-week JigFit and Powwow Impact series of workshops.

The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council is pleased to announce the return of Jig Fit and Powwow Impact workouts.

After a great response to the workshops held earlier this year, Madelaine McCallum, a dancer originally from Île-à-la-Crosse, Sask., will be hosting another six weeks of free Jig Fit and Powwow Impact workouts.

The Cree/Métis artist, dancer and choreographer, is hosting the virtual, all-ages workouts where she will share her passion and knowledge of dance and culture.

McCallum has been jigging since she could walk and enjoy all forms of dance having performed on many stages. It was the start of her natural progression into choreographing her first solo piece which included powwow dancing, contemporary, and Métis jigging.

She has collaborated with many dance/theatre companies including Compaigni V’ni Dansi, Dancing Earth and Full Circle. McCallum’s passion for dance has taken her across Canada and she is currently one of the choreographers for Butterflies in Spirit, a dance group consisting of family members of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls – founded by Lorelei Williams.

In the Jig Fit workout series, Madelaine will share Métis jig dance steps, sequenced through choreography in fun, upbeat workouts that will feature both traditional and contemporary music. Steps and movements utilized in these fitness workouts originate from dances such as the Red River Jig, Belt Dance, Broom Dance and Orange Blossom Special. The workouts take place on Thursdays starting April 15 and take place each week until May 20 from 6 to 7 p.m. via Zoom.

In the Powwow Impact workout series, Madelaine will feature the basics of powwow with two or three steps each class that are sequenced through choreography. Madelaine noted by the last workout you will have the knowledge of 10 or more powwow steps and will have an opportunity to dance freely and share your own style. The workouts take place on Tuesdays starting April 20 and take place each week until May 25 from 6 to 7 p.m. via Zoom.

Both of the workouts are free and people of all ages and abilities are welcome to join.