Join the winter family fun at Shenkman Arts Centre this coming Saturday morning. Fête Frissons is happening February 4 from 8:30 a.m. to noon. You’ll be treated to an array of activities, from ice fishing and drawing to outdoor games and live entertainment. In fact Ottawa favourites such as Rag and Bone Puppet Theatre and the Side Street Swing Dancers will be performing.
“It’s an opportunity to bring together local families, many from Orléans, and celebrate the Canadian winter,” says Caroline Obeid, artistic producer and manager of the Shenkman.
“It’s a great way to show what arts in Ottawa has to offer,” she adds. “Whether you want to come along and enjoy our popular pancake breakfast with the family and watch a performance, or get involved in some activities yourself, there really is something for everyone.”
Over the last seven years, families have turned out in the hundreds to experience a true Canadian day. Other than breakfast, $5, it’s all free. The fest, offered in partnership with Winterlude, includes activities in both official languages.
The morning’s event will begin with Daniel Richer, Ottawa’s official town crier and Abenaki storyteller, who’s serving as master of ceremonies. Roch Carrier’s classic story, The Hockey Sweater, will be brought to life by OYP theatre students. Audiences will also enjoy Wise Atangana’s African Lullabies and Percussion.
All ages can try harvesting, sawing and hauling river ice with The Cumberland Heritage Village Museum. There’ll be rousing French-Canadian folk songs with La Ridaine. Face painting, stilt walkers, fire and ice demonstrations, curling and syrup d’erable are all part of what Fête Frissons has to offer.
For details, see www.shenkmanarts.ca.
