The Thousand Faces Festival
A weekend of mythic tales and live music
From July 12 to 14, Edmontonians have the chance to experience a diverse selection of multicultural, multidisciplinary, and mythically-inspired performances during The Thousand Faces Festival. Hosted at the Alberta Avenue Community Centre, the festival will have 20 hours of programming over the course of that weekend. There will be lots to see!
This year, the festival will have an expanded outdoor area, and will feature a Myth County Fair, Mythic Treasures Cabaret and Feast, as well as a New Mythic Works Series. There’s a wide variety of performances to enjoy — from South Asian Classical dance, to a roving dragon, and African drumming. Families can dance on a giant inflatable pyramid or see a movie outdoors.
The Mythic Treasures Cabaret and Feast is the headline event! On Friday and Saturday evening, the event will feature a variety of different performances and samplings of food from Alberta Avenue restaurants.
The Myth Country Fair will have a combination of short performances, both indoors and outdoors. There will also be activities for children and vendors across the entire festival.
Saturday and Sunday afternoon will have five new mythologically-inspired plays written by Edmonton’s own playwrights, and will be performed by the Thousand Faces Ensemble.
The cost of going to these events is based on a “pay-what-you-can” donation, but there will be suggested amounts for each event.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the expansion of the festival is one of their biggest steps forward. “The increased presence on Alberta Avenue will allow us to share with Edmontonians the many cultural treasures of our diverse communities,” says festival producer Aidan McBride. “[We’re] showcasing the artists, stories, food, and businesses that help deepen cultural understanding and appreciation.”
The festival has been running for 12 years. These past years have helped bring together artists from diverse cultures to help create magical stories from their mythical worlds.
The Thousand Faces Festival is an unforgettable cultural experience, and with three days of performances and activities, it’s an event that should not be missed.
Keep an eye out for The Thousand Faces Festival website, Instagram, and Facebook for more updates on the festival.
THE THOUSAND FACE FESTIVAL
July 12 to 14
Alberta Avenue Community Centre, 9210 118 Ave NW
Tickets: Pay-what-you-can donation (but there will be suggested amounts for each event)
