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Indigenous Storytellers and Spoken Word Residency

Indigenous Arts

Program Information

Overview

The Indigenous Storytellers and Spoken Word Residency will push the parameters of traditional storytelling, while retaining the integrity of how stories come to be. Participants will be immersed in in-depth writing practices involving visual, research, and meditative exploration, as well as elder teaching and land based outings. 

With coaching from experienced faculty, participants will collaborate with one another and as a collective to refine stories already told and create new ones to share in a professional capacity.

What does the program offer?

The Indigenous Storytellers and Spoken Word Residency offers the opportunity for Indigenous storytellers from all regions to meet and work with peers. Participants will learn new skills from Indigenous mentors in their respective fields, widen their circles of support, and learn marketing management and presentation skills.

The program will include individual writing time, morning group check-ins, and group and individual feedback. Participants will explore the art of storytelling via improvisation through sound and instrument.

Participants will have the opportunity to take part in a workshop, as well as a story lecture and mini showcase. At the end of the residency, participants will showcase their work in a public performance.

Who should apply?

Indigenous writers, storytellers, and spoken word artists are encouraged to apply. Those who work from a word based practice, traditional or contemporary non-text based storytelling, and singer/songwriters with storytelling experience are also invited.

This residency is for emerging to mid-level storytellers. A maximum of 12 participants will be accepted. Indigenous language speakers are also encouraged to apply.

Faculty

What's Included

Accommodations
Shared RoomRead MoreClose

Your program fee includes a shared bedroom on the Banff Centre campus for the duration of your program.

Single rooms may be available upon request for an additional fee. Please contact the Office of the Registrar. 

Get connected with other artists on campus and focus on your projects in a creative environment while we take care of the day-to-day essentials.

Meal Plan Icon
Full Flex Meal PlanRead MoreClose

Using a credit-based system to dine on campus, our flexible meal plans allow you to select meals according to your own needs during your stay.

The Full Flex meal plan includes $41 credit per day, equivalent to breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Vistas Dining Room.

Showcase Icon
Showcase Your WorkRead MoreClose

This program offers opportunities to showcase your work-in-progress in one of our performance venues.

Barbell Icon
Gym MembershipRead MoreClose

Your program fee includes free access to the swimming pool, climbing gym, and fitness suite as well as discounted rates for classes at the Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre.

Paul D. Fleck Library and ArchivesRead MoreClose

Access a wide range of publications, books, music, and films in the Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives, open six days a week.

Discount Icon
Box Office DiscountsRead MoreClose

Enjoy special artist rates for ticketed performances or complimentary access to events.

Community Icon
Participant ResourcesRead MoreClose

Enrich your experience and get to know other artists on campus by taking advantage of the activities and support provided by our Participant Resources team.

Fees & Financial Assistance

Program Fee (Shared Room)
$2 977.23
+GST
Single Room Upgrade Fee
$605.00
+GST

Application fee: $35

*Participants accepted to the program will be eligible for up to 100% scholarship of the program fee (shared room). 

Single rooms are available for the upgrade fee at the cost of the participant. 

The program fee includes a shared room and the Full Flex Meal Plan at Banff Centre. Travel to and from Banff Centre is the responsibility of participants. 

Additional need-based financial aid is available. If you would like to be considered, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials. Help fund your experience at Banff Centre. View a compiled list of national and international opportunities here.

How to Apply

Learn more about the steps to Complete Your Application.

Financial Assistance

Be sure to complete the Financial Aid section to be eligible for financial assistance.

Resume

A one-page resume or C.V. describing academic, professional, and other relevant experience.

Cover letter

A one-page cover letter explaining why you are interested in this program and what you hope to achieve by attending it.

Personal statement

A summary of your goals, how you plan to achieve them, and how this experience will assist you.

Project proposal

A one-page description, including the theme, an outline of materials and facilities required, and indicative timelines.

Story to share

Please bring a story that is authored by you. If you are bringing a traditional story, please explain what about the narrative resonates with reworking. The story must be ready to work and present to an open public audience.

Adjudication

Participants are selected by impartial adjudicators on the basis of their submitted material. In addition to artistic merit, consideration will be given to the likelihood that the artist's work will benefit from the program. Applicants will be notified of their status as soon as adjudication is complete.

All programs, faculty, dates, fees, and offers of financial assistance are subject to change. Program fee is subject to applicable taxes. Non-refundable fees and deposits will be retained upon cancellation. Any other fees are refunded at the discretion of the Banff Centre. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. Mountain Standard Time.

Contact the Registrar

For questions on preparing your application, please contact the Office of the Registrar:

Toll Free Number (Canada + USA)
1.800.565.9989