Interdisciplinary,
Awareness,
Youth and Family,
Artist Collaborations,
Diversity

 Jingle DressPerformance and Discussion

This program combined the performing arts with a discussion of the artistic process behind crafting a traditional jingle dress.

Funding Categories

Honoraria
Marketing & Outreach

partner

William Bonifas Fine Arts Center

location

Escanaba, MI

About

The Jingle Dress Performance featuring Michelle Reed, her daughter, and other artists allowed visitors to see a performance up close and listen to the sounds of the performers’ dresses, which are meant to be healing. A discussion accompanied the performance, so guests could learn about the intricate hands-on work that goes into making these dresses.

Intended Outcome

The goal of this program was to create an inclusive environment for young members of the Hannahville Indian Community to learn about and celebrate their history and culture. Additionally, this program was meant to teach those unfamiliar with the jingle dress about the meaning behind this form of dressmaking and its importance in carrying on the traditions of Indigenous people in the Escanaba region.

Actual Outcome

This program attracted equal numbers of new and repeat visitors. The event inspired the presenters to turn the performance into an interactive experience with attendees joining a group circle dance in an unintended but welcome outcome.

Advice Post Project

Although a program could be planned as a more passive experience for visitors, being flexible and willing to adapt in the moment to make a program more participatory can result in a more engaging experience for everyone involved.