-“The Voices of Resilience” and “Street Fusion” will host free noon-time and evening performances through August 21-

The amphitheatre at Confederation Centre of the Arts will come to life this summer with two free shows intended to entertain, educate, and promote inter-cultural understanding.

The Voices of Resilience is written and performed by The Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors in association with L’Nuey. The show will teach the history of the Mi’kmaq people of PEI by sharing stories, songs, teachings, and beautiful traditional dance.

“Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors has been together since their first show in 2011, this year marks 10 years together as the only Indigenous Theatre Company in Atlantic Canada,” says Julie Pellissier-Lush, one of the show’s creators. “See the beautiful sights, listen for powerful drums, learn a few traditional words in Mi’kmaq, and join us for a fun event in partnership with the Confederation Centre of the Arts and L’nuey that will make your heart happy.”

Performances of The Voices of Resilience will take place at noon from July 21-23 and again from July 26-31.

Street Fusion is written, and choreographed by Dawn Ward and Joe Dames in association with Xclusiv Crew and Hurricanes Dance. It features Urban and Caribbean music and dance fused with traditional Island steps. It is a vibrant dance show celebrating how culture brings us together.

“Culture is learned in patterns; it is the values, behaviours, and connections shared by people,” says Ward. “Culture is also a way of coping with the world we live in. It resides in the hearts of everyone. It’s the way we see each other and appreciate our differences. It is also the way we find common ground. This show displays how distinct cultures can come together and create and celebrate each other.”

Performances of Street Fusion will take place on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 5:30 pm, and on Saturdays at noon from August 4-21.

“We are so blessed to be able to share these two unique and inspirational shows with audiences,” says Adam Brazier, Artistic Director of Performing Arts at the Centre. “The Centre is committed to promoting diversity, inclusiveness and inter-cultural understanding. These two shows will give audiences an opportunity to learn more about these cultures through performance and creativity.”

To reserve free tickets to these two shows, visit confederationcentre.com/whats-on/, or call the box office at 1-800-565-0278. The box office is open Monday to Saturday, 9am to 8pm.