All about the Dreamspeakers Film Festival (April 19 – 23)

Here in Edmonton, we have an exciting festival just around the corner. The Dreamspeaker International Film Festival is celebrating its 30th year showcasing Indigenous people’s works in video, radio, film, and new media. Join the fun this April 19th through to the 23rd at various locations throughout Edmonton. 

This year, the Dreamspeakers International Film Festival (DIIFF), is screening 52 Indigenous films at Metro Cinemas at the Garneau Theatre. Along with the variety of amazing Indigenous films, this festival will also host a 30th anniversary party, an award celebration, and numerous networking events and development opportunities. 

There are two ways to enjoy this festival. Purchase a Festival Pass for $150, which will allow you to view all the films in person along with the anniversary party. Or guests can purchase tickets for each in-person or online screening. Individual tickets vary from $5 to $15 depending on length, location, and if the screening is in-person. Guests are encouraged to view the Dreamspeakers Film Festival schedule to determine which tickets they require.

Some of the amazing films set to view include Buffy Sainte-Marie: Carry It On a Crave Original, The Fire, and Stellar. Peruse the entire film selection on the website and easily find the schedule for viewing. Films will be screened at Metro Cinemas at the Garneau Theatre and the Muttart Theatre at the Edmonton Public Library. 

The 30th Anniversary party will be a celebration of all Indigenous art with live music, art, and a special fusion performance which will feature dance, video mapping, and projection. The party starts at 8pm on April 21st at Studio96 right near our Edmonton rentals. Enjoy amazing food from Pei Pei Chei Ow, a cash bar, and many other delightful surprises.

This festival is designed to give Indigenous people opportunities to showcase their art, but also to learn, grow, and meet other artists. There are several networking events and development opportunities for artists which include workshops, panel discussions, and community dialogues. The newly revitalized Stanley A. Milner Library, now known as PÎYÊSÎW WÂSKÂHIKAN a.k.a Thunderbird House, a dedicated Indigenous space, will host these workshops.

The Dreamspeakers Film Festival is the perfect way to celebrate Indigenous artists and their creativity.