HONOURING THE MAN WHO COULD NOT STOP DANCING

Released on June 16, 2005

An exhibit honouring the late George Ceepeekous and his love of dancing opens in the lobby of the Royal Saskatchewan Museum (RSM) in Regina today.

"The display will allow young people an up-close and hands-on experience with Saskatchewan's rich First Nations culture and heritage," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joan Beatty said.

Ceepeekous, a member of Kawacatoose First Nation, was renowned as one of the few men who continued to dance the Prairie Chicken Dance. In 1991, at the age of 71, Ceepeekous decided he would stop dancing. Later that year, believing that he had hung up his moccasins for good, he contacted the Royal Saskatchewan Museum to discuss having his outfit as part of the museum collection.

"However, dancing was too much a part of his life," Curator of Aboriginal History Dr. Margaret Hanna said. "As soon as he heard the drum being played at a pow-wow, he had to get up and dance."

Ceepeekous continued to dance until 2003, still winning awards and trophies. His dedication to the Prairie Chicken Dance motivated some younger dancers to learn this dance.

"It was an honour to learn about Mr. Ceepeekous and what his traditions meant to him," Jaynie Fourhorns said. She is a University of Regina Arts Internship student who did much of the work in preparing the exhibit.

The Royal Saskatchewan Museum is fully funded by the provincial government as part of its commitment to give the people of Saskatchewan an appreciation and understanding of our natural and cultural heritage.

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For More Information, Contact:

Penny Pedersen Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-2850